This class is partnered with Algebra I to provide a developmental
approach to the building of algebraic concepts. Students will practice
algebraic problem solving primarily by using a self-paced algebra
computer program, with the balance of class time being used for cooperative
groups.
Only students enrolled in a high school credit algebra course may
elect this class.
ART (All grades)
This course is designed to develop essential art skills
and to expand art experiences using a variety of media. Student projects
will be evaluated for originality, craftsmanship, effort, time utilization
and quality of work, taking into consideration individual students'
talent, experience, and limitations.
AVID (7th & 8th grades only)
Advancement Via Individual Determination
AVID provides selected students with instruction in college-entry
level skills, tutor-led study groups, motivational activities, and
academic survival skills. These include tips for time management,
note-taking (the Cornell system), textbook reading, library research,
studying and test taking.
AVID students are required to enroll in an advanced English or foreign
language credit course in 7th grade; in 8th grade, an Algebra I course
OR foreign language credit course
BAND (All grades)
Beginning Band: (6th & 7th grades)
This course is designed to introduce students to the following basic
instrumental music techniques: tone production, articulation, breath
control, pitch discrimination, melodic and rhythmic concepts and patterns,
and practice skills. The class will encourage sound practice habits,
and provide experiences in performing before an audience.
Approval of the band director is required for these two bands:
Intermediate Band: (7th & 8th grades)
This course is designed to acquaint students with intermediate to
advanced instrumental music skills. Skills in pitch discrimination,
sight-reading, rhythm concepts, listening, and the study of all major
and minor scales are emphasized.
Advanced Band: (7th & 8th grades)
This course is designed to acquaint students with advanced instrumental
music skills. These may include interpretation of musical scores,
a soloist performance or with an ensemble, handling a varied music
repertoire, and advanced sight-reading.
COMPUTERS (6th & 7th grades)
This class is designed to assist students in applying
a variety of computer technology techniques to their daily lives.
Areas may include computer ethics, scanning, the Internet, multimedia,
word processing, databases, spreadsheets, and graphics.
DRAMA: (6th & 8th grades)
This course gives students an opportunity to experience
drama as a rewarding activity. Content includes learning about the
different genres of drama (tragedy, comedy, farce etc) and the use
of skills appropriate for acting and communication by participating
in plays.
FAMILY CONSUMER SCIENCE
[Home Economics] (All grades)
This course is designed to provide students with basic
skills needed for life. Students will learn the basics of sewing,
cooking, parenting and childcare, depending on grade level. This is
a hands-on course and students will plan and construct projects.
INTERCULTURAL EDUCATION
[Host Nation] (All grades)
This course is designed to acquaint students with the
host nation's culture and values.
Students study key events in the host nation's history, with special
attention given to the local environment. Elements of art, music,
religion, education, industry, and geography of the country are studied.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION
(All grades)
The PE program teaches physical fitness, lifetime sports,
team sports, gymnastics and dance as a way to develop the personal
qualities of teamwork, individual effort, responsibility, and sportsmanship.
READ 180
Read 180 is an intensive reading intervention program,
designed to meet the needs of students whose reading achievement is
below the level of proficiency for their grade level. Students are
enrolled in this course based on several criteria, including Terra
Nova Reading scores at or below the 25%tile, less than proficient
reading comprehension as measured by lexile level, and teacher recommendation.
Read 180 classes are small (approximately 15 students) and instruction
is delivered through small group instruction in reading skills, high
interest literature, and a self-paced computer software program to
continually measure comprehension. The goal of the Read 180 program
is to provide additional reading instruction to support skill development
so that enrolled students can reach grade level reading proficiency.
STAFF ASSISTANT (All
grades.
6th grade 2nd semester only; 2 qtrs)
Provides students with the experience in assisting professional
school personnel in their duties. May involve performing clerical
tasks, correcting papers, and getting supplies.
VIDEO PRODUCTION
Students will learn the language of video production
and complete a project involving the use of video production equipment.
Students will analyze the application of video editing in music video,
advertising and film.