Welcome to Mini-Middle | 4th-5th grade
At Atlanta Academy, our proprietary "Step Up" Mini-Middle program for 4th and 5th graders is specially designed to ensure a smooth transition into Middle School. This unique program lays the foundation for fostering essential study skills, organization, and independence, all within the supportive environment of small classroom settings. By introducing class rotations and nurturing independent thinking, our Mini-Middle program prepares students for the academic and social challenges of Middle School.
Through this carefully crafted program, students develop the ability to manage their work, lockers, and time effectively while also building strong peer relationships. Socials further enhance this experience, allowing students to deepen friendships and feel confident and connected as they approach the next stage of their education. Atlanta Academy’s Mini-Middle program is a key stepping stone, ensuring that students are fully equipped for the exciting journey ahead in Middle School.
At Atlanta Academy, problem-solving and critical thinking are at the core of our mathematics curriculum. We emphasize the application of math skills beyond the classroom, integrating them into other subjects such as science and art to reinforce learning in real-world contexts.
For students beginning in fourth grade, we utilize a challenging curriculum designed to accommodate whole-class instruction, small-group activities, and computer-assisted learning, offering a variety of instructional methods that cater to diverse learning styles. The flexibility of this program allows teachers to create a supportive and adaptable classroom environment, ensuring that each student receives the necessary assistance to thrive.
Beginning in fourth grade, Atlanta Academy applies a comprehensive differentiation strategy within the classroom. This approach ensures that students across the spectrum of abilities receive appropriately challenging material.
Additionally, students are encouraged to make meaningful connections while reading, such as text-to-self, text-to-text, and text-to-world. This approach fosters critical thinking, moving beyond word mastery to develop the capacity for analysis and the application of information—an essential skill set in today’s world.
Atlanta Academy places a significant emphasis on writing. Its systematic approach encompasses aspects of the writing process: planning, drafting, revising, editing, and publishing. This comprehensive method equips students with skills and strategies for various types of writing, with a strong focus on grammar and mechanics. As students progress, they gain proficiency in multiple writing styles and genres.
This strong foundation empowers students to express themselves clearly and creatively in writing. We also encourage our students to showcase their talents by participating in local, state, and national essay and poetry contests, further enhancing their communication skills and building their confidence.
At Atlanta Academy, our four specialized science labs provide age-appropriate learning environments where students actively engage in hands-on exploration and scientific inquiry. As students progress to fourth and fifth grade, they embark on an exciting journey of scientific discovery, where real-world applications of science are not just taught—they are experienced.
In fourth and fifth grades, students dive deep into historical contexts through interactive discussions, hands-on activities, and interactive map skills. This method bridges the gap between classroom learning and the dynamic world around them, fostering a connection between past and present. Our goal is to cultivate informed and engaged citizens who are attuned to the complexities of the world and ready to make meaningful contributions to society.
Our STEAM program equips students with essential critical thinking, collaboration, problem-solving, and innovation skills, covering areas such as environmental design, engineering, digital technologies, and more. Students immerse themselves in diverse projects, from coding and woodburning to painting and drawing, fostering creativity and design thinking. Additionally, we have an on-site chicken coop where students learn about animal care and life cycles, actively participating in the care and raising of chickens, including the rare Mille Fleur d'Uccle breed. This hands-on experience encourages students to think outside the box and apply their learning in real-world contexts.
Social-emotional learning is key to developing well-rounded students. It focuses on core competencies such as self-awareness, self-management, responsible decision-making, relationship skills, and social awareness. These skills educate hearts, inspire minds, and empower students to navigate the world effectively.
As our students enter 4th and 5th grade, SEL focuses on more complex concepts like goal-setting, responsible decision-making, executive function skills, emotional regulation, and peer relationships through classroom lessons, small groups, lunch bunch, and individual guidance sessions. Our students also participate in local community outreach projects such as Miss Mary's Crankin, which benefits the Drake House in Roswell, Georgia.
Our physical education program is designed to build the foundation for a lifelong appreciation of fitness and healthy living. Students are introduced to a variety of sports and activities, giving each child the opportunity to discover their interests and talents. At Atlanta Academy, we believe that physical education is not just about exercise; it is about shaping well-rounded individuals who understand the importance of taking care of both their bodies and minds.
Our visual and performing arts programs serve as the cornerstone for fostering creative thinking, instilling confidence, and encouraging students to step out of their comfort zones. Purposefully designed, these programs prepare students with critical thinking, problem-solving, and innovation skills.