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MEK Learning Circles

MEK Learning Circles

PROGRAM OVERVIEW

MEK Learning Circle (MLC) is a small-group academic enrichment program for students in Grades 4–8. Built on a “circle back” approach, MLC helps students strengthen their academic foundation by revisiting and reinforcing what they learn in school—then taking it further.

Students gain new skills and strategies at MEK, apply them in their schoolwork, and return to deepen their understanding. This intentional cycle builds confidence, mastery, and long-term academic success. All courses are aligned with Common Core State Standards (CCSS) and designed to support school curriculum while preparing students for future academic challenges.

English & Language Arts

CRITICAL READING

This course helps students become thoughtful, analytical readers. They learn how to break down reading prompts, interpret literary texts, and express their ideas clearly in writing. Students build a strong academic voice and develop the tools to succeed in school and beyond.

  • What students learn:
  • Read critically and analyze texts
  • Write structured, insightful responses
  • Engage in thoughtful discussion

 

Program Details:

  • Course Levels: Grades 4–8
  • Duration: Summer 14 sessions (2 per week), Fall/Spring : 16-20 sessions (1 per week)
  • Format: Hybrid (virtual or in-person)
  • Schedule: Fall, Spring, Summer
  • Session Length: 90 minutes

Writing

Students learn the full writing process—from brainstorming to drafting to revising. The focus is on writing with clarity, structure, and purpose. Rather than writing more, students learn to write better.

What students learn:

  • Organize and express ideas clearly
  • Revise for clarity and impact
  • Meet academic writing standards using CCSS-aligned rubrics

 

Program Details:

  • Course Levels: Grades 4–8
  • Duration: Summer 14 sessions (2 per week), Fall/Spring : 16-20 sessions (1 per week)
  • Format: Hybrid (virtual or in-person)
  • Schedule: Fall, Spring, Summer
  • Session Length: 90 minutes

Non-Fiction Reading

This course introduces students to real-world reading and research. They explore non-fiction texts, identify key facts, and present their findings using tools like PowerPoint. It’s a great way to build confidence in both academic and public speaking settings.

What students learn:

  • Research and analyze non-fiction texts
  • Organize and present information
  • Communicate ideas clearly to an audience

 

Program Details:

  • Course Levels: Non-Fiction Reading I Grades 5-6, Non-Fiction Reading II Grades 6-7
  • Duration: Summer 14 sessions (2 per week), Fall/Spring : 16-20 sessions (1 per week)
  • Format: Hybrid (virtual or in-person)
  • Schedule: Fall, Spring, Summer
  • Session Length: 90 minutes

Verbal Reasoning

This course strengthens vocabulary and verbal reasoning—key components of reading comprehension and standardized test success. Students practice analogies, sentence completions, and contextual vocabulary to build fluency and confidence.

What students learn:

  • Decode word meanings in context
  • Solve analogy and logic-based questions
  • Prepare for tests like the SSAT and ISEE

 

Program Details:

  • Course Levels: Verbal Reasoning I Grades 4-5, Verbal Reasoning II Grades 5-6
  • Duration: Summer 14 sessions (2 per week), Fall/Spring : 16-20 sessions (1 per week)
  • Format: Hybrid (virtual or in-person)
  • Schedule: Fall, Spring, Summer
  • Session Length: 90 minutes

Math

OPERATIONS & NUMBER SENSE (ONS)

Focuses on fluency in calculations and numerical reasoning. Students build confidence through repetition and accuracy, mastering essential math operations before moving on to more complex topics.

Key Features:

  • Topic-based mini-lessons
  • In-class drills for practice
  • Homework for reinforcement
  • Periodic cumulative assessments to track progress
  •  

Program Details:

  • Course Levels: Grades 4-7 ONS, Pre-Algebra 1 ONS, Pre-Algebra 2 ONS
  • Duration: Summer 14 sessions (2 per week), Fall/Spring : 16-20 sessions (1 per week)
  • Format: Hybrid (virtual or in-person)
  • Schedule: Fall, Spring, Summer
  • Session Length: 90 minutes

Problem Solving Math (PSM)

Teaches students how to approach and solve multi-step word problems. Students learn to identify what’s given, what’s being asked, and how to apply logical steps to find the solution.

Key Features:

  • Topic-based mini-lessons
  • In-class drills for practice
  • Homework for reinforcement
  • Periodic cumulative assessments to track progress

 

Program Details:

  • Course Levels: Grades 4-6 PSM, Pre-Algebra 1 PSM, Pre-Algebra 2 PSM, Algebra 1, Advanced Algebra 1
  • Duration: Summer 14 sessions (2 per week), Fall/Spring : 16-20 sessions (1 per week)
  • Format: Hybrid (virtual or in-person)
  • Schedule: Fall, Spring, Summer
  • Session Length: 90 minutes

Get to know our programs through our blog resources: 

GETTING STARTED

Students interested in registering for any one of our competition prep courses must complete the following:

2. Meet with one of our expert counselors to create a plan.
3. Enroll in the competition prep course that best fits your academic needs and goals.
 

Contact us for more information.

TESTIMONIALS

“As I received my college acceptances, Yale and West Point among them, I had flashbacks of memories made in MEK. I sincerely thank you.”
Yale-University
Sooyong K.
MEK alumnus accepted to Yale University
"I want to say thank you for everything you have done for me since the 7th grade. You have always been there to support me, believe in me, and most importantly push me to achieve greater things. I would not be where I am without your constant presence."
Princeton University
Jasmine S.
MEK alumnus accepted to Princeton University
“The BCA Exam Prep Program, the SAT Prep and the Road Map to College Program led to my daughter’s acceptance to the University of Chicago.”
University of Chicago
Haiti T.C.
MEK parent accepted to University of Chicago