Academics

Academics at I.S. 77

I.S. 77’s educational philosophy is rooted in student-centered instruction. Our instructional approach emphasizes explicit modeling of essential skills for students, checks for understanding to gauge student progress, and small group instruction that provides targeted support to students based on their strengths and areas of need. Students are scheduled for double-period blocks of instruction in ELA and mathematics at least 3 times per week to provide them with adequate time to master essential skills.

Our diverse classes provide support and enrichment for students of all abilities, including English Language Learners and students in ICT and self-contained settings. We offer accelerated classes in the 7th grade and opportunities for students to take Regents classes in Algebra and Living Environment in the 8th grade.

We currently use the following curricula for our core instruction:

ELA

Our ELA curriculum is HMH’s Into Literature. This curriculum provides students with opportunities to engage with culturally relevant texts that connect to students’ lives as a basis for building essential reading and writing skills. Students learn embedded close-reading techniques that empower them to make meaning of grade-level texts and practice strategies that improve their writing abilities. 

In addition to Into Literature, students receive additional reading support through targeted phonics instruction during ELA lessons. This instruction is based on the science of reading and supports students in decoding words and accessing texts. This approach has been shown by research to help struggling readers make above-average progress within a school year to becoming independent readers.

Mathematics

I.S. 77 uses enVision Mathematics. Our enVision lessons follow a Three-Step model to maximize student engagement, learning, and support. In Step 1, Problem-Based Learning, students discuss a rich, complex problem to review past mathematical learning and generate ideas relevant to the day’s new learning. In Step 2, Visual Learning, teachers provide direct instruction on new math skills that build on the discussion and students have the opportunity to practice these new skills. In Step 3, Assess and Differentiate, teachers check to see if individual students have mastered that day’s learning and provide support or enrichment activities as needed. The result is that all students are practicing in the areas that are most essential and impactful based on their current mathematical strengths and needs.

Social Studies

Our Social Studies Department implements the New York City Passport for Social Studies Curriculum, a comprehensive and engaging educational journey designed for middle school students in grades 6, 7, and 8.  This curriculum is structured to foster a deeper understanding of the world by exploring history, geography, and various cultures. In 6th grade, students will delve into geography, ancient civilizations, and the medieval world. The 7th grade curriculum focuses on American history from the colonial period through the Civil War. In 8th grade, students will explore the Reconstruction era to the present day. Throughout this journey, students will develop important skills such as critical thinking, evaluating multiple perspectives, and understanding historical context. As we embark on this educational adventure, we are committed to providing a rich and meaningful learning experience that prepares our students to be informed and active citizens.

Building on this foundation of citizenship, we also focus on local engagement. At our school, we are proud to incorporate Generation Citizen's 'Action Civics' program into our curriculum. This innovative program empowers our students to actively participate in the democratic process by identifying issues in their community and advocating for positive change. By engaging in real-world, hands-on civic learning experiences, our students develop the knowledge, skills, and motivation necessary to become informed and active citizens in the 21st century.