Pathways & Electives
Fort Greene Prep believes that middle school should be a time to explore, to discover, and to create. During grades 6 and 7 scholars experience all pathways: STEM, Computer Science, Visual Arts, Music, and World Language. At the end of grade 7, scholars make a decision to focus intensively on one of the pathways in grade 8.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
Our Computer Science Pathway focuses on using programming to innovate, create, and problem solve. Beginning in grade 6 scholars begin their coding journey by learning block programming. In grade 7, scholars build on this understanding through exploration of line coding with Javascript. For those who choose the pathway for grade 8, they dive deeper into coding using Python. This pathway builds real-world computer skills so that students are job-ready, whether building websites, programming games, or analyzing research data. All grades engage in the Digital Citizenship curriculum which focuses on the ethics of how technology is used in the world and what is its impact on society. Scholars who successfully complete this pathway are on track to take the Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles Examination, readying them to begin a career in the field or to apply for computer engineering college or university programs.
STEM
Our STEM Pathway centers investigative science, scientific method, and the algebra concepts necessary to represent engineering design. This pathway culminates in Regents Algebra and Biology in grade 8. Specifically designed for scholars who are interested in pursuing careers in medical professions, science, and engineering, it is here that students can begin to build their conceptual understanding for high school, college, and beyond. Successful completion of this pathway prepares students for a high school path that can culminate in Physics and Calculus in preparation for entry into a college or university focusing on these careers.
VISUAL ARTS
Art education at Fort Greene Preparatory Academy is a platform for self-expression and creativity. Scholars engage in various art forms, from drawing and painting to multimedia and sculpture, allowing them to express their ideas and emotions through visual arts. We’re lucky to partner with Studio in a School each year! Students in grades 6–8 get the chance to dive into a special art unit, dedicating several weeks to exploring their creativity and building their skills. Oh, and guess what? FGPA’s got a kiln right in our den, perfect for firing up our ceramic creations and turning them into true Wolf Pack masterpieces!
Our Visual Arts Pathway provides students with a forum for self-expression, exploration, imagination, and creativity. Scholars learn how to use imagery to communicate their ideas and use visual modeling to solve problems. A combination of studio art techniques and the study of art history allow a well-rounded foundation. Over the course of three years students will explore a variety of media including, drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, sculpture, pottery, and digital art. Scholars who successfully complete this pathway will prepare portfolios for consideration into Visual Arts High Schools.
WORLD LANGUAGE
Our World Language Pathway fosters an understanding of the connections between language and human nature. Combining the language arts of speaking, listening, reading and writing, our scholars develop a respect for diverse cultures and traditions, and they acquire bilingualism and biliteracy. Beginning in grade 6, our scholars choose to study either Spanish or French as an additional language, or for those who are graduating from existing French Dual Language programs, to enter into the French Dual Language continuing education programs at Fort Greene Prep. Successful completion of the World Language Pathway prepares students for success on the Second Language Proficiency Examination (checkpoint A) and earn high school language credit.
MUSIC
Beginning this year, Fort Greene Preparatory Academy is proud to launch our expanded Music Program. Students in grades 6 & 7 will be introduced to a variety of instruments including ukulele, guitar, keyboard, percussion, and jazz band instruments (such as trumpet, saxophone, flute, clarinet, and trombone). Students will be introduced to and developed skills in reading formal musical notation. Vocal music will also be explored, and students will learn how to use their voices in a variety of choral and small group performance opportunities. Students who choose this pathway in grade 8 will be prepared for high school auditions and spend time working on deepening their vocal and band ensemble skills. All levels showcase their skills at family sharing events throughout the year. Students may also opt for after-school band activities and lunchtime music groups for further practice.
Continuous Health Education
In grades 6 & 7 students learn about nutrition, exercise, emotions, and making healthy choices.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical Education is an integral part of our curriculum, emphasizing the importance of a healthy lifestyle and physical activity. Through a combination of fitness, sports, and wellness activities, students develop essential motor skills, teamwork, and a lifelong commitment to physical well-being.
HEALTH EDUCATION
In grades 6 & 7 students learn about nutrition, exercise, emotions, and making healthy choices. Health education is a required academic subject for students in all grades. In this class, students learn how to take care of their minds, their bodies, and their relationships with others. They learn the concepts and skills they need to be healthy for life, including:
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social and emotional skills
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how to set goals for life and health
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how to find and use health services
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good communication and relationship skills
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how to set boundaries and resist negative social pressure