Middle School
Inquiry-driven, rigorous, globally minded — preparing students for competitive high schools with advanced bilingual fluency and the confidence to lead.
—— Grades 6–8
Fluency, Rigor, Global Readiness
Our middle school program builds on the strong foundation established in elementary school, moving students toward advanced bilingual fluency and academic rigor. Middle school is a transformative time when students transition from concrete to abstract thinking — our program embraces this by providing challenging, real-world applications of knowledge in both French and English.
Graduates leave Francophone with advanced bilingual abilities, strong academic skills, critical thinking, a global perspective, and the self-advocacy needed for high school success.
Inquiry-Driven Learning
Middle school students learn best when they can explore meaningful questions and make connections to the world around them. Our inquiry-driven approach recognizes that adolescents are naturally curious and capable of sophisticated thinking.
Students learn to question, evaluate evidence, and construct well-reasoned arguments in both French and English.
Academic content is connected to authentic challenges, helping students see the relevance and power of their learning.
Group projects and presentations build teamwork skills and the ability to express complex ideas in multiple languages.
Students develop independence, time management, and self-advocacy skills essential for high school success.
Subjects & Programs
Students engage with increasingly complex texts in both languages, developing sophisticated writing skills and analytical abilities. Novels, essays, and articles in French and English build vocabulary, cultural knowledge, and deep comprehension.
Students progress through pre-algebra, algebra, and geometry — developing the mathematical reasoning and problem-solving skills needed for high school mathematics. Common Core aligned, inquiry-based, and focused on process over just answers.
Hands-on investigation, data analysis, and the scientific method. Students explore life science, physical science, and earth science through experiments and scientific inquiry. Developed by the Lawrence Hall of Science at UC Berkeley.
World history, U.S. history, and civics aligned with California State Standards. Students develop an understanding of historical patterns, cultural perspectives, and their role as active citizens in a democratic society.
—— The Capstone Year
The 8th Grade Experience
Eighth grade is a capstone year at Francophone. Students take on leadership roles in the school community, complete culminating projects that showcase their learning, and participate in our signature 8th grade exchange program.
The exchange program gives students the opportunity to travel to a French-speaking country, immersing themselves in the language and culture they have been studying for years — bringing their bilingual education full circle.
Oakland, CA 94601
Before and after-school care (BASC) available. Learn more →
Students entering 6th–8th grade must demonstrate grade-level French proficiency. Assessment accommodations are available for students with disabilities — no child will be denied admission on the basis of their disability.
Ready to See Our Middle School in Action?
Schedule a tour and see our inquiry-driven bilingual program for yourself.