Athens Middle School Course Catalog 2018-2019

COURSE

CATALOG

I

2018-2019

ACS-K12.ORG/AMS

Athens Middle School

g o tal

a c e s r cou

A Community Connected by Education.

STNETNOC FO ELBAT

Athens City Schools Board of Education Belief Statements Statement of Non-discrimination Mission Statement Athens Middle School Information Important Dates for School Year 2018-2019 Definitions Blended Education Options

1 2 2 3 4 5 6 8

Frequently Asked Questions 9 Graduation Requirements for High School Diplomas 10 7th and 8th Grade Core Courses English Math Science Social Studies

13 14 18 20 22

7th and 8th Grade Elective Courses General Electives Fine Arts Electives Project Lead the Way Electives Physical Education Electives

24 25 28 30 32

Special Services – Extended Standards Pathway 34 Registration Forms 36 AMS Core Courses Reference Page 38 AMS Electives Reference Page 39 Registration Form – 7th Grade 40 Registration Form - 8th Grade 42

ATHENS CITY SCHOOLS Board

of

Education

455 US Highway 31 North Athens, Alabama  35611 p 256.233.6600 f 256.233.6640 www.acs-k12.org W. L. 'Trey' Holladay III, Ed.D., Superintendent

Jennifer Manville, Scott Henry, Russell Johnson (President), Tim Green, Trey Holladay (Superintendent), James Lucas, Beverly Malone (Vice President), Shannon Hutton and Shane Black (Board Attorney)

1

STNEMETATS FEILEB

1. We believe all students can learn.

2. We believe it is important for students to attend school every day and in a safe, secure, and supportive environment.

3. We believe technology is a progressive learning tool for students to reach their greatest potential and provides equity for student outcomes.

4. We believe every student deserves a rigorous, relevant, and engaging learning experience including extracurricular and fine arts experiences.

5. We believe students are valued individuals, and our system will respect and empower them to reach their greatest learning potential.

6. We believe every student is inherently unique and diversity enhances learning.

7. We believe it is important for every student to develop a sense of personal and community responsibility and for the system to promote community service opportunities.

8. We believe honesty and open communication are vital for healthy relationships.

9. We believe passionate teachers have the greatest impact on learning.

10. We believe that school staff should be connected with students and families outside the classroom because learning is a shared responsibility for which school, home, student, and community are accountable.

11. We believe leadership at every level matters.

12. We believe our system is tradition-rich and future-focused in preparing our students for a global society.

STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION It is the policy of Athens City Board of Education not to discriminate on the basis of sex, color, handicap, religion, creed, national origin, race, or age in its educational programs, activities, or employment policies as required by Federal Regulations. Â Inquiries or complaints regarding compliance with Federal Regulations may be directed to Title IX, Title VI, and 504 Coordinator, 455 US Hwy. 31 N, Athens, AL Â 35611 Â 256.233.6600.

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sion

is m r Ou

is to be a progressive, high-quality school system that connects students and their families to a caring, traditional community.

A T H E N S

C I T Y

S C H O O L S

Established 1909

ATHENS MIDDLE SCHOOL

100 US Hwy. 31 N. Athens, Alabama 35611 p 256.233.6620 f 256.233.6623 www.acs-k12.org/ams Dr. Kerry Donaldson, Principal PRINCIPAL

COUNSELOR

Dr. Kerry Donaldson

Mrs. Lou Ann O'Rear

kerry.donaldson@acs-k12.org

louann.orear@acs-k12.org

ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

COUNSELOR

Mr. Graham Aderholt

Mrs. Shana Winter

graham.aderholt@acs-k12.org

shana.winter@acs-k12.org

SECRETARY & BOOKKEEPER

ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL

Mrs. Cindy Baker

SIXTH GRADE CENTER

cindy.baker@acs-k12.org

Mrs. Kim Moore kim.moore@acs-k12.org

REGISTRAR

FRONT OFFICE SECRETARY

Mrs. Tracy Crow

& ATTENDANCE CLERK

tracy.crow@acs-k12.org

Mrs. Misty Miller misty.miller@acs-k12.org

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I M P O R T A N T

D A T E S

FOR THE BEGINNING OF THE 2018 SCHOOL YEAR

THURSDAY, AUGUST 16

During schedule pick up, students will be able to purchase P.E. uniforms.

7th & 8th Schedule Pick Up 9 am - 12 pm AMS Cafeteria (new building) 6th Grade Schedule Pick Up 1 pm - 3 pm AMS Cafeteria (new building)

SUNDAY, AUGUSTÂ 26

SUNDAY, AUGUST 26

Open House for Sixth Grade Center 2 pm- 3 pm Assembly for 6th Grade Parents begins at 2 pm in the AMS Main Gymnasium (new building)

Open House for 7th & 8th Grade Students 3:30 pm - 4:30 pm Assembly for 7th & 8th Grade Parents begins at 3:30 pm in the AMS Main Gymnasium (new building)

TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 4

WEDNESDAY, SEPTEMBER 5 7th Grade PowerUP (MacBook) Pick Up 4 pm - 6:30 pm AMS Campus (new campus)

8th Grade PowerUP (MacBook) Pick Up 4 pm - 6:30 pm AMS Campus (new campus)

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D E F I N I T I O N S FALL SEMESTER The first and second nine-week term of the school year (18 weeks).

SPRING SEMESTER The third and fourth nine-week term of the school year (18 weeks).

COURSE A unit of instruction.

CORE COURSE Courses required (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) for all students.

VIRTUAL COURSE Courses conducted via web-based instruction and collaboration.

Courses may be onsite and/or at another location.

TRADITIONAL COURSE Traditional classroom environment where the instructor and the students are not separated by geographic space or time.

HONORS/ADVANCED Honors courses are designed for the college-bound student. The CLASS curriculum is covered at an accelerated pace and provides students opportunities to take advanced level courses in English, math, and science. These courses follow the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards and include enrichment activities, project based learning, research, and/or laboratory experiences. Honors/Advanced courses are noted in the course description. AMS 7th Grade students are allowed to choose two honors courses for the year. AMS 8th grade students are allowed to choose three honors courses. They are designed to prepare students to take Honors/ Advanced Placement (AP) courses in HS and Dual Enrollment, which allows students to complete college level studies while in high school.

THE VALUE OF Post-secondary institutions throughout the nation and internationally ADVANCED PLACEMENT grant credit, advanced placement, or both on the basis of qualifying AP exam scores. For more information visit the following website: www.collegeboard.com/ap/creditpolicy. AP course experience favorably impacts 85% of admission decisions of selective colleges and universities. AP coursework increases scholarship opportunities and improves the chances of college admission. The cost of the AP exam is less than most college textbooks. Students who take AP courses and exams are much more likely than their peers to complete a college degree on schedule in 4 years. For more information visit www.collegeboard.com/research.

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D E F I N I T I O N S SCHEDULE CHANGES To provide the greatest probability for students to receive requested courses, students are given an opportunity to review the AMS Curriculum Catalog and complete a Student Registration Form. From there, a master schedule is constructed and teachers are hired to ensure that what was requested would be received. Knowing that not every course request can be honored due to conflicts in the student’s schedule, the following procedure provides the greatest potential for requests to be honored. Student registration forms indicate a commitment to completion of the course requested. All 7th and 8th Grade students will take a math, science, social science, English and one semester of PE each year. Once a schedule is assigned students commit to course completion as defined in the student schedule.

Schedule changes should be requested prior to the first day of school.

The principal may approve course changes due to extenuating circumstances. There will be a $20.00 charge for each student/parent initiated schedule change. All elective schedule changes will incur a $20.00 charge.

SCHEDULE CORRECTIONS Schedule corrections will be made and only when approved by the following criteria: duplication of courses, courses are out of sequence, or Weight-Lifting PE to be entered due to tryouts.

GRADING SCALE A-100-90 B-89-80 C-79-70 D-69-65 F-64-0 More information regarding grading procedures can be found at www.acs-k12.org/ams. iNOW PARENT PORTAL Parents will receive information regarding accessing student records AND STUDENT ACCOUNTS online at the beginning of the school year.

EAGLE STUDENT The Student Support Team (SST) is a school-based problem solving SUPPORT TEAM (SST) support group. Team members discuss issues related to specific needs of students and offer teachers assistance in resolving problems. The team is composed of regular education teachers, administrators, counselors, and other individuals as needed.

Outcomes of a team meeting may include curriculum strategies and intervention, alternative instructional strategies, behavioral management plans, crisis intervention, conflict resolution, conferences with interested parties, or referrals for additional evaluation.

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B L E N D E D

E D U C A T I O N

o p t i o n s

ATHENS RENAISSANCE SCHOOL Athens Renaissance School is a K-12 blended learning school that is part of the Athens City School system. Athens Renaissance is a student-centered educational option that offers the opportunity to have a personalized learning experience to meet their academic and social needs.

Blended learning means the curriculum is delivered through a combination, or a blend, of faceto-face and online classes with certified teachers. This provides flexibility and additional course options. Classes meet at Athens Renaissance School, a standalone school building located in downtown Athens beside the Robert Beaty Historic District.

Because Athens City Schools is dedicated to the development of the whole student, multiple options for social student activities are available through Athens Renaissance. Clubs such as art, chess, book, running, outdoor adventure, acting and 4H are optional for students as well as field trips. Students may participate in athletics in their zoned district.

The Athens-Limestone Public Library is the official library of Athens Renaissance School.

The curriculum at Athens Renaissance is the same as any other brick and mortar public school in Alabama. Teachers are state certified, and a fully staffed and certified support team is available to parents and students.

To learn more about Athens Renaissance School, please visit www.acs-k12.org/ars. To schedule a visit or for questions, please contact Athens Renaissance Principal Mr. Nelson Brown at 256-771-7147 or at nelson.brown@acs-k12.org.

Athens Renaissance School 405 East South St. Athens, Alabama 35611

Athens Middle School students who are interested in attending the Athens Renaissance School should apply directly to Athens Renaissance School. Upon acceptance, the student should withdraw from Athens Middle School and enroll at Athens Renaissance School.

Acceptance back to the home school is not guaranteed.

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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS How are grades reported?

Information Now Parent Portal, Web Portal, Progress Reports and Report Cards Is there a supply list?

A grade level supply list will be released prior to the end of the school year so that parents will be able to have items purchased prior to the first day of school.

It will be available on the website and in the local stores.

What determines my grade level?

Grade level is determined by the number of core classes successfully passed.

What happens if I fail a class?

Students who are not successful during the regular school year and must repeat a class, credit recovery may be a necessity in Summer School.

Are all students required to take PE in middle school?

Yes students are required to take one semester of PE.

What classes are typically offered in Summer School?

Summer School is mainly for credit recovery. Registration information will be posted on the website.

What is the difference between regular and Honors?

Both regular and Honors courses will use the Alabama College and Career Ready grade level standards. Honors may have additional readings and materials to supplement courses. Students who meet the qualifications (Data Rubrics) and have parental consent will be selected to take honors classes.

What are the graduation requirements that I should expect as I enter high school?

See Graduation Requirements on the following pages.

9

Foreign Language Students must earn 2 Carnegie Units in any one foreign language

2

Mathematics Algebra I or Algebra 1A and Algebra 1B Honors Geometry Algebra II or Honors Algebra II with Trig Pre-Calculus or Honors Pre-Calculus

4 1 1 1 1

English Honors English 9 Honors English 10 Honors English 11 or AP English Language/Composition Honors English 12, Dual Enrollment English or AP English 12

1 1 1 1

H

O

N

O

R

S

E

N

D

O

R

S

E

M

E

N

T

GRADUATION requirements

Social Studies World History 9 US History 10 US History 11, AP US History 11 or Dual Enrollment US History 11 American Government, Honors American Government or AP Government Economics, Honors Economics or AP Macroeconomics Dual Enrollment American Government/Economics Science Life Science Physical Science (Physical Science or Chemistry) Approved Science Courses Fine Arts Theatre Visual Arts I Symphonic Band Vocal Physical Education L.I.F.E (L.I.F.E. Football, L.I.F.E. Basketball, L.I.F.E. Volleyball, L.I.F.E Softball, L.I.F.E Baseball) Marching Band JROTC Health Health or Foundations of Health Science

10

4

4 1 1 1 0.5 0.5 1

4 1 1 2

0.5

1

0.5

Career Preparedness

1

Electives

7

TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED

28

C

GRADUATION requirements

English

4 1 1 1 1

Mathematics Algebra I or Algebra 1A and Algebra 1B Geometry Algebra II, Algebra II with Trig., or Algebra with Finance Approved Math Course

1 1 1 1

Social Studies World History US History 10 US History 11 American Government/Economics

1 1 2

Science Life Science Physical Science (Physical Science or Chemistry) Approved Science Courses

A

4

R E

E

R R E A D Y E N

4

D O R S E M E

0.5

Physical Education L.I.F.E (L.I.F.E. Football, L.I.F.E. Basketball, L.I.F.E. Volleyball, L.I.F.E Softball, L.I.F.E Baseball) Marching Band JROTC Health

1

Career Preparedness Career Preparedness Course (Career and Academic Planning, Computer Applications, Financial Literacy)

3

CTE and/or Foreign Language and/or Arts Education Students choosing CTE are encouraged to complete three courses in sequence and obtain a credential in field.

6.5

Electives

28

TOTAL UNITS REQUIRED

11

T

1

N

4

The future belongs to those who believe in the beauty of their dreams.

ELEANOR ROOSEVELT

what's in a core?

WHY CORE CLASSES MATTER The core is the center. It is always the most important, central basis of a thing. It's the foundation.

The core of the earth creates the magnetic field that protects life on earth from the power of the sun. The core of an apple is the inside part that holds the seeds, and the seeds are makers of the next generation of anything grown. In the human body, the core is the center for balance, movement and the mind.

Core classes serve the same function. Core classes are the foundation of a well-rounded education. They help students think for themselves, deal with unforeseen issues, think critically and solve problems. Core classes offer the chance to explore and discover different topics and subjects.

The core curriculum of courses allows students to gain broad knowledge, learn intellectual and practical skills, understand differences and make connections across academic disciplines.

It benefits the students when they step outside their comfort zone and look at topics from a different perspective. The introduction to a broad range of subjects builds a solid foundation that contributes to the successful development of the well-rounded student.

So what's in a core? Everything.

HSILGNE

To become college and career ready, students must have the knowledge to analyze literature at advanced reading levels and analyze and interpret historical documents aligned to content in history or social studies classes— examples include documents such as the Magna Carta, the Declaration of Independence, Washington’s Farewell Address, and the Gettysburg Address.

Shakespearean plays are studied in at least three of the last four years of high school, sometimes involving a comparison with language and literature from other countries and eras.

The refinement and extension of reading skills include analyzing how characters in fiction develop over the course of time and advance the plot or theme and how authors of informational texts develop claims and use rhetoric to advance a point of view. Other reading skills include the examination of authors’ craft such as the effect of specific word choices and the use of satire and irony. Standards for informational text require that students evaluate multiple sources of information presented in different media or formats. Writing and editing skills that will be needed in college and careers are refined as students develop claims and counterclaims, use precise language, and create a coherent whole with an appropriate tone.

A command of formal English is demonstrated in both students’ writing and speaking. They must come to appreciate that language is as much a matter of craft as of rules and be able to choose words, syntax, and punctuation to express themselves and achieve particular functions and rhetorical effects. Students must integrate multiple sources of information in order to make informed decisions and solve problems. This requires that they evaluate the credibility and accuracy of each source and note discrepancies among data.

They must have the flexibility, concentration, and fluency to produce high-quality, first-draft text under a tight deadline as well as the capacity to revisit and make improvements to a piece of writing over multiple drafts.

r u o are s rd o le W b " i t aus h x ine t s c." i mo g ma f e o c r sou J.K. ROWLING

ENGLISH ENGLISH CORE Number 200001 200002aa 200003 200004aa

Course

Fee

Language Arts 7

NA

Honors Language Art 7

NA

Language Arts 8

NA

Honors Language Arts 8

NA

200002aa HONORS LANGUAGE ARTS 7 Year Course, Grade 7 (Recommendation made by school based on data.)

To help students prepare for college and future careers, the foundation for 7th Grade Language Arts stems from the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards for incoming 7th graders who will eventually progress to 8th Grade Honors Language Arts. The content standards focus on four specific areas: reading, writing, speaking/listening, and language. Reading, writing, speaking, listening, and collaborative strategies are used purposefully to build knowledge and skills and to help students become independent readers, writers, and thinkers as they continue to progressively build the skills necessary for academic success. In addition, they will be guided through the research process. The primary goals of the course are to foster independent learning, encourage in-depth exploration of the content, and develop academic habits of mind. Outside reading is required during the school year and a recommended summer reading list will be provided as an option.

200001 LANGUAGE ARTS 7 Year Course, Grade 7 To help students prepare for college and future careers, the foundation for 7th Grade Language Arts stems from the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards for incoming 7th graders who will eventually progress to 8th Grade Language Arts. The content standards focus on four specific areas: reading, writing, speaking/listening, and language. In 7th Grade, students will have the opportunity to develop specific skills that will progress throughout their middle and high school careers. The reading standards concern students analyzing literature and informational text. Through this analysis, they will determine how literary devices interact, identify central themes, examine author’s craft, and support their findings with textual evidence. In writing, students will construct clear and coherent writing in the basic modes – narrative, expository, and persuasive – while being supported through the writing process. In addition, they will be guided through the research process. According to the listening and speaking content standards, learners will engage effectively in collaborative discussions and presentations. Students will adapt speech to a variety of context and tasks along with analyzing the ideas of others. Lastly, within the language core, a command of Standard English conventions, when writing and speaking will be demonstrated, along with the acquisition of general academic and domain specific words. These skills will serve as a base for learning for the years to come.

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200003 LANGUAGE ARTS 8 Year Course, Grade 8 To help students prepare for college and future careers, the foundation for 8th Grade English stems from the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards for incoming 8th graders who will eventually progress to 9th grade English and Composition. The content standards focus on four specific areas: reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. In 8th Grade, the reading standards concern students analyzing literature and informational text in the following ways: supporting with specific text evidence, determining and tracing the development of a central idea and relating it to other literary elements, and summarizing their analysis.

Students will also investigate the genre of drama by: 1) breaking down dialogue, characters, and plot, 2) analyze how differences in the points of view and its effect on the audience. Another learning target regards students analyzing through comparing and contrasting films versus various forms of literature, and they will determine how a modern work of fiction draws on themes, patterns of events, or character types from genres of literature. In addition, students will determine the figurative and literal meanings of words. Towards the end of the year, students read and comprehend fiction and nonfiction literature, at the high end of grades 6–8 text complexity band independently and proficiently by the end of the year. Writing standards for 8th Grade consist of students writing in the narrative, persuasive, and expository modes. Students will also be guided through the research process and compose a published product of their findings. Furthermore, students will engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions with diverse partners on grade 8 topics, texts, and issues, building on others’ ideas and expressing their own clearly. Eighth graders will demonstrate command of the conventions of Standard English grammar and usage when writing or speaking. In addition, determining or clarifying the meaning of unknown and multiple-meaning words or phrases will be acquired. All standards will be taught in a progression that reveals student mastery.

200004aa HONORS LANGUAGE ARTS 8 Year Course, Grade 8 (Recommendation made by school based on data.)

To help students prepare for college and future careers, the foundation for 8th Grade English stems from the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards for incoming 8th graders who will eventually progress to 9th Honors Language Arts or AP English. The content standards focus on four specific areas: reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. Reading, writing, speaking, listening, and collaborative strategies are used purposefully to build knowledge and skills and to help students become independent readers, writers, and thinkers as they transition into high school. The primary goals of the course are to foster independent learning, encourage in-depth exploration of the content, and develop academic habits of mind. Outside reading is required during the school year and a recommended summer reading list will be provided as an option.

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Mathematics is not about numbers, equations, computations or algorithms. It is about understanding.

WILLIAM

PAUL

THURSTON

SCITAMEHTAM

SCITAMEHTAM

Math courses with strong emphasis on analysis and critical thinking skills will benefit career fields such as engineering, health care, education, business & finance and human services.

MATHEMATICS MATHEMATICS CORE Number 210001 210002aa 210003 210003aa 210005

Course

Fee

Math 7

NA

Honors Math 7 Accelerated

NA

Math 8

NA

Honors Math 8

NA

Algebra I Gr 8 (High School Credit)

NA

210001 MATH 7 Year Course, Grade 7 Math 7 is based on the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards for 7th grade. Content standards are organized into five domains: Ratios and Proportional Relationships, The Number system, Expressions and Equations, Geometry, and Statistics and Probability.

Students gain a deeper understanding of math concepts by narrowing their focus to fewer topics. They master content through reasoning opportunities and engaging activities providing a deeper understanding. Teachers will provide a balanced instructional approach between discovery and direct instruction. Students who complete this course will be ready for Math 8.

Mathematical Practice. This course prepares students for Algebra I or Algebra IA and Algebra IB in the 9th grade.

210003 HONORS MATH 8 Year Course, Grade 8 (Recommendation made by school based on data.)

Honors Math 8 is designed for students who desire the opportunity to learn the 8th grade Alabama College and Career Ready Standards at a more rigorous pace. Like the math 8 course, the curriculum addresses numerous mathematical concepts such as: number theory, laws of exponents, algebraic expressions, slope-intercept method, linear functions, Pythagorean Theorem, irregular and composite plane figures, and data collection and analysis. This course also deepens conceptual understanding though the Standards of Mathematical Practice. This course prepares students for Algebra I in the 9th grade.

210002aa HONORS MATH 7 ACCELERATED Year Course, Grade 7 (Recommendation made by school based on data.)

This course is designed for students who desire the opportunity to take Algebra I in the 8th grade. Students will be taught the 7th and 8th grade math standards throughout the course. Concepts will include, but are not limited to, rational number operations, laws of exponents, multi-step equations, algebraic expressions, slope-intercept form, linear functions, Pythagorean Theorem, measurement, irregular and composite plane figures, data collection and analysis, and experimental and theoretical probability. Students successfully completing this course will be considered for placement into Algebra I as 8th graders.

210005 ALGEBRA I - High School Credit Year Course, Grade 8 (Recommendation made by school based on data.)

This is a high school level course for 8th grade students who successfully completed Honors Math 7 Accelerated Honors and has the recommendation of the school based on data. This course utilizes a graphing approach and the content addressed consists of the following: performing operations with numerical expressions while using properties of real numbers and order of operations, factoring polynomials, factoring algebraic expressions, analyzing linear functions from equations, slopes, and intercepts, solving multi-step equations and inequalities, quadratic functions, and analyzing data and probability. Students in advanced algebra are expected to apply all skills learned at a higher level of rigor. The course prepares students for Geometry, Honors Geometry or the equivalent in the 9th grade. The final grade is calculated in the student’s high school GPA. Upon successful completion of Algebra I, the student receives a Carnegie Unit towards graduation.

210003 MATH 8 Year Course, Grade 8 Math 8 is based on the Alabama College and Career Ready Standards for 8th grade. The curriculum addresses numerous mathematical concepts such as: number theory, laws of exponents, algebraic expressions, slopeintercept method, linear functions, Pythagorean Theorem, irregular and composite plane figures, and data collection and analysis. This course also deepens conceptual understanding though the Standards of 19

Imagination is more important than knowledge.

ALBERT EINSTEIN

ECNEICS

The middle school science curriculum provides essential preparation for high school science readiness for all students in grades 7 and 8. The courses are designed to enable students to attain scientific literacy of the disciplinary core ideas by engaging in science and engineering practices through increased rigor and sophistication to deepen their understanding of science content. By the end of middle school, students should have an adequate scientific background to be active, informed citizens and to succeed in both the workplace and in high school science courses.

The instructional environment of the science classroom is student-centered, allowing individuals to participate in inquiry-based learning. All science courses in grades 7 and 8 include a laboratory based component that encourages students to apply investigation and reasoning skills to develop explanations and propose solutions.

SCIENCE SCIENCE CORE Number 220001 220002aa 220003 220004aa

Course

Fee

Life Science Gr. 7

NA

Honors Life Science Gr. 7

NA

Physical Science Gr. 8

NA

Honors Physical Science Gr. 8

NA

220001 LIFE SCIENCE 7 Year Course Grade 7 This course focuses on life science. Students are encouraged to develop an appreciation of the importance of diversity of life, while simultaneously understanding the impact of their roles as individuals in the community of life. Some areas of study include the characteristics of living things, functions of organelles, tissues and organs of various systems in the body, function of chromosomes, and Mendel’s laws of genetics.

The focus of this course prepares students for biology and other life science courses taken in high school.

Students are involved in laboratory experiments for a deeper understanding of the concepts.

220003 PHYSICAL SCIENCE 8 Year Course Grade 8 This course focuses on physical science. The scientific process is used throughout the year with students developing laboratory skills and techniques through discovery-oriented experiments. The curriculum includes the study of atoms and bonding, chemical reactions, Newton’s laws of motion, potential and kinetic energy, and mechanical and electromagnetic waves. Students will also study basic mathematical concepts as it relates to science and graphing skills. The focus of this course is designed to prepare students for the physics and chemistry courses taken in high school.

220004aa HONORS PHYSICAL SCIENCE 8 Year Course Grade 8 (Recommendation made by school based on data.)

Honors Physical Science 8 will challenge students at a higher level by covering topics in greater depth, at an accelerated rate, and with more embedded mathematical concepts.

Students will spend an increased amount of class time involved in laboratoryoriented processes that involve peer collaboration.

Student’s laboratory experiences will focus more on experimental design manipulation and reporting of findings as they are presented with investigations related to course content. Content standards will include concepts and skills in Chemistry and Physics that are considered foundational for High School Advanced Placement courses.

220002aa HONORS LIFE SCIENCE 7 Year Course Grade 7 (Recommendation made by school based on data.)

The Honors Science program at AMS will focus on the 7th Grade Life Science Standards, as well as, the High School Environmental Science performance standards and the High School Biology Standards. Units will be integrated with National Math and Science Initiative laboratory investigations. NMSI is leading the way in STEM education and offers students rigorous, hands-on problem solving opportunities in collaborative group settings. The laboratory explorations focus on Advanced Placement science concepts to prepare students for more rigorous science courses in high school.

21

Educate and inform the whole mass of the people...they are the only sure reliance for the preservation of our liberty.

THOMAS JEFFERSON

SEIDUTS LAICOS

Social studies is important because it teaches students fundamental concepts of culture, economics and politics skills to groom them into educated, productive citizens. Social studies centers around understanding how the world works on a social level. Social studies is a broad category that includes important aspects of the many different parts of the humanities and social sciences; it is important for every person to have a basic understanding of key concepts that have molded modern society.

Learning the basic history of government and economic structure is necessary to inform future voters.

Social studies are also important for teaching students basic values, such as justice and equality, which are the foundation of modern society. A good understanding of how history has influenced the modern world gives people knowledge that they can apply to other subjects and everyday life.

SOCIAL STUDIES SOCIAL STUDIES CORE Number

Course

Fee

230003

Civics Gr. 7

NA

230001

World Geography Gr. 7

NA

230016

World History Gr. 8

NA

230003 CIVICS Semester Course (Required for all 7th Graders) Grade 7 During the semester of civics, students explore the role of citizens in the United States. The curriculum addresses representative democracy, law, personal economics, and civil responsibility. Civics is a required course for all and covers several aspects of government. Civics will explore the origins of the American democratic system while looking at how the constitution embodies the values and purposes set up by the founding fathers. The structure and function of the government will be analyzed on a national, state, and local level while showing how each level is interrelated. This will launch the class into discussing how constitutional values relate to other nations and world affairs. Throughout the course we will focus on how the people play an active role in government and the importance each citizen contributes to society.

to different locations, and how the people in these places survived and advanced with available resources.

230011 WORLD HISTORY 8 Year Course Grade 8 This survey course covers world history from the beginning of recorded history to the year 1500. Content standards for this grade incorporate the strands of economics, geography, history, and political science. The curriculum encompasses the migrations of early peoples, the rise of civilizations, the establishment of governments and religions, the growth of economic systems, and the ways in which these events shaped Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. During 9th grade, these students will take Modern World History, which covers world history from 1500 to the present.

230001 WORLD GEOGRAPHY Semester Course (Required for all 7th Graders) Grade 7 Students study geography in the context of economics, politics, and culture. This course is designed to build on students’ prior knowledge and skill sets in the application of geographic information and tools to understand complex relations between the physical environment and human existence. While focusing on each part of the world, students are able to recognize characteristics distinguishing regions in the Americas, Europe, Asia and Africa. Each regional study encompasses an in-depth study of the physical geography, culture, economy, government, and social dynamics defining the land and people. An historical element is intertwined into the regional studies, as an investigation of the earliest civilizations demonstrates how and why people migrated 23

SEVITCELE LARENEG

Carpe diem. Seize the day.

Make your lives extraordinary.

PROFESSOR JOHN KEATING, DEAD POETS SOCIETY

GENERAL ELECTIVES General Elective Courses Number

Course

Fee

802202

Multimedia School Publications (Eagle Techs) Gr 7 & 8 (Application)

$10

200038

Introduction to Theatre Gr. 7 & 8

NA

802110

Destination Imagination Gr. 7 & 8 (Application)

TBA

230212

World Issues and Civic Involvement Gr. 7 & 8

NA

Skills Lab Gr. 7 & 8

NA

Foreign Language Survey Gr. 7 & 8

NA

270174aa

Foreign Language Survey Extended Gr. 8 (Prerequisite Needed)

NA

802200ah

AVID Secondary Gr. 7 & 8 (Application)

NA

802200ac 270174

802202 MULTIMEDIA SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS (EAGLE TECHS) Year Course Grades 7-8 Teachers Approval Via Application Process Fee $10.00 and FBLA Students create, design, and produce the school’s yearbook; learn and use publishing tools; utilize desktop publishing skills; refine revising and editing skills; work under established deadlines; and create spectacular pictures by using PhotoShop. The yearbook staff may be required to stay after school on occasion in order to complete deadlines. Requirements for becoming a staff member are as follows: fill out an application, be interviewed by the adviser and present staff, and obtain three recommendations (one of which is the present English teacher), and possess a B or better in English.

Fee: $10

creatively to solve a problem. Destination Imagination encourages students to have fun, take risks, and focus and frame challenges while incorporating STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics), the arts, and service learning. Students participating in DI build on their individual strengths while learning patience, flexibility, persistence, ethics, respect for others and their ideas, and the collaborative problem solving process. The national DI challenge masters create new collections of team challenges each year which students work together to solve. The teams present their challenge solutions at a yearly competition along with other DI kids from around the state. Destination Imagination is an exciting way for students to practice higher order thinking, to improve creative and critical thinking, and to participate in collaborative problem solving.

230212 WORLD ISSUES AND CIVIC INVOLVEMENT Semester Course Grades 7 & 8 The goal of this course is to have open discussions of current issues and raise awareness of the civic responsibility students have as they become voters.

Discussions for each class will focus on current events from that week, while in the second part of class students will discuss issue in greater detail in relation to the civic responsibilities. Scheduled issues include the wars, civic involvement, Citizens rights/ responsibilities, the future of the job market, and other modern issues.

Discussions will be supplemented by readings, films, and

200038 INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE Semester Course Grades 7 & 8 This course will offer students exposure to basic theatre knowledge and acting skills. Students will build confidence and become more comfortable expressing themselves in front of others.

802110 DESTINATION IMAGINATION Semester Course Grades 7 & 8 Teachers Approval Via Application Process Fee: TBD Destination Imagination is a team based, competitive program which requires team members to work 25

public speakers. Students will also be encouraged to read news media from around the world.

802200ac STUDY SKILLS LAB Semester Course 7th and 8th Grade Students – (Recommendation required by school based on data.)

This course is designed for students who need support with reading and math related skills. For maximum success, parents, students, and academic support teachers communicate more frequently to increase student success with these skills. Recommendation is determined by a student’s academic performance and identified needs. Students may be re-evaluated at the end of each grading period and, if recommended by the teacher, may be moved out of the class into another elective.

270174 FOREIGN LANGUAGE SURVEY Semester Course Grades 7 & 8 This course is designed to give students an introduction to basic languages and cultures that are a focused on at the High School level. Students study the cultures, geographies, and people who speak the languages.

Students will study basic language skills.

270174aa FOREIGN LANGUAGE SURVEY EXTENDED Semester Course Grade 8 Prerequisite is 270174 Foreign Language Survey This course is designed to give expand on the languages and cultures introduced to students who have complete the Intro to Foreign Language Survey. Students study the cultures, geographies, and people who speak the languages. Students will study basic language skills.

802200ag AVID Year Course Grades 7 & 8 Teachers Approval Via Application/Interview Process AVID elective class is taught by a trained AVID teacher.

The goal of AVID at the secondary level is to ensure college readiness for all AVID elective students and improved academic performance for all students based on increased opportunities. This course focuses on Cornell Notes, best practices strategies for student success and a community service component.

26

STRA ENIF

Art is not what you see, but what you make others see.

EDGAR DEGAS

Education in the arts is an integral part of the development of each human being. Those who have studied learning processes throughout the ages, beginning with Plato, have emphasized the importance of the arts in the education process. Arts education refers to education in the disciplines of music, dance, theatre, and visual arts. Study in the arts is integral to our society.

They are a part of the cultural heritage of every American. The arts are what make us most human, most complete as people. The arts cannot be learned through occasional or random exposure any more than math or science can. Education and engagement in the fine arts are an essential part of the school curriculum and an important component in the educational program of every student at Athens Middle School.

FINE ARTS ELECTIVES FINE ARTS ELECTIVES Number

Course

FEE

280021aa

Middle School Band Gr. 7

$25

280022aa

Middle School Band Gr. 8

$25

280060

Vocal Choral Music Gr. 7 and 8

$15

280107

Visual Art Gr. 7 and 8

$10

280021aa MIDDLE SCHOOL BAND Year Course Grade 7 and 8 Fee $25 for all students Additional $50 (Only for the students who rent a school instrument) Beginning Band is designed for the student who has not played a band instrument before. Membership is open to students in 7th graders who have the fine motor skills and appropriate level of reading skills to be successful in the band program. Fundamentals of playing a musical instrument and accurate reading of music are stressed.

Each student must provide instruments or rent one from the school. The band director will help choose the instrument for which your child is best suited. Fee of $25 per band student will be to covered expenses related to reeds, valve oil, registration fees for contests, music purchases, and equipment purchases. Students who do not own/rent their own instrument will rent one of the school-owned instruments for an additional $50 rental fee.

280071 VOCAL CHORAL MUSIC Year Course Grade 7 & 8 Fee: $15 In this class students experience and participate in the performance of a varied repertoire of challenging vocal music. This course includes musical history, theory, sight singing and proper vocal technique. Fundamentals of musical history, theory, sight singing and proper vocal technique are emphasized. Fee of $15 will be used to cover expenses of uniforms and music purchased.

Students rehearsals, and performances outside regular school hours maybe required at certain times of the year.

280107 VISUAL ART SURVEY Semester Grade 7 or 8 Fee: $10 The art program is designed to allow students to explore various media in the art curriculum. The curriculum is designed in a progressive manner, so that students build their skills and knowledge as they go through middle school and enter high school. The students explore a wide range of topics and media throughout the year.

Design, drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and clay comprise the activities in which the students will be involved. Art Shows, contests, Art History, and field trips are designed to expose the students' talents, build their self-esteem, while appreciating the work of their peers and artists from around the world.

29

SEVITCELE

YAW EHT DAEL TCEJORP

To be an overachiever you have to be an over believer.

DABO SWINNEY

PROJECT LEAD THE WAY ELECTIVES Number

Course

Fee

560001

PLTW- Design and Modeling Gr. 7

$10

560003

PLTW - Automation and Robotics Gr. 8

$10

560023

PLTW - Medical Detectives Gr. 8

$10

560029

PLTW - App Creators Gr. 8

$10

560032

PLTW - Computer Science for Innovators and Makers Gr. 7

$10

560032 COMPUTER SCIENCE FOR INNOVATORS AND MAKERS Semester Course Grade 7 Fee $10 Computer Science for Innovators and Makers teaches students that programming goes beyond the virtual world into the physical world. Students are challenged to creatively use sensors and actuators to develop systems that interact with their environment. Designing algorithms and using computational thinking practices, they code and upload programs to microcontrollers that perform a variety of authentic tasks. The unit broadens students’ understanding of computer science concepts through meaningful applications. Teams select and solve a personally relevant problem related to wearable technology, interactive art, or mechanical devices.

560001 DESIGN AND MODELING Semester Course Grade 7 Fee $10 Students apply the design process to solve problems and understand the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. They work in teams to design a playground and furniture, capturing research and ideas in their engineering notebooks. Using Autodesk® design software, students create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions.

560003 AUTOMATION AND ROBOTICS Semester Course Grade 8 - Prerequisite: Design and Modeling Fee $10 Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics as they learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use the VEX Robotics® platform to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms.

560029 APP CREATORS Semester Course Grade 8 Fee $10 App Creators introduces students to the field of computer science and the concepts of computational thinking, through The creator of mobile apps. Students are challenged to be creative and innovative, as they collaboratively design and develop mobile solutions to engaging authentic problems. Student experience the positive impact of the application of computer science to society as well as other disciplines, particularly biomedical science.

560023 MEDICAL DETECTIVES Semester Course Grade 8 Fee $10 Students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they analyze genetic testing results to diagnose disease and study DNA evidence found at a “crime scene.” They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs investigate how to measure and interpret vital signs, and learn how the systems of the human body work together to maintain health.

31

SCITELHTA & NOITACUDE LACISYHP

Don't put a limit on anything.

The more you dream, the more you achieve.

MICHAEL PHELPS A program of quality health and physical education enhances the quality and productivity of life that can be achieved through comprehensive, collaborative, and sequential learning. Evidence shows that physical activity can help improve academic achievement and positively impact cognitive skills, attitudes, academic performance, concentration, attention, readiness to learn, and classroom behavior.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES Number

Course

FEE

240001ad

Physical Education Gr. 7 & 8

$20

240001ab

Weight Training – Boys Gr. 7 & 8

$20

240001ac

Weight Training – Girls Gr. 7 & 8

$20

802208am

Cheer/Dance Physical Education – Gr. 7 & 8

TBD

802208am CHEER/DANCE PHYSICAL EDUCATION Semester Course Grades 7 & 8 Prerequisite- athletic roster and coach signature This elective is for members of the cheer and dance teams at AMS in grades 7 & 8 and will serve as their physical education requirement for the year.

240001ad PHYSICAL EDUCATION Semester Course Grades 7 & 8 This elective is for all students with emphasis on skill development and competition. Sports may include: football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, softball, soccer, badminton, bowling, Frisbee, golf, ping-pong, pickle-ball, track and field, and tennis. Personal fitness activities such as: strengthening, conditioning, jogging, aerobics, and body shaping will be explored during the course. Fee $20 will cover the cost of a PE uniform.

240001ab & 240001ac WEIGHT TRAINING (Boys or Girls) Year Course Grades 7 & 8 Prerequisite- athletic roster and coach signature This elective is for athletes in grades 7 & 8 with emphasis on proper strength and conditioning techniques, cardiofitness and physical core maintenance. Fee $20 will cover the cost of a PE uniform.

33

SECIVRES LAICEPS

Every student can learn, just not on the same day or in the same way.

GEORGE EVANS

Through leadership and service, the vision of Special Education Services (SES) is to foster positive educational outcomes for all students with special needs.

SPECIAL SERVICES: Extended Standards Pathway For students served by Individual Education Plans (IEP) pursuing the Extended Standards Pathway

Number

Course

600436

AAS: English Language Arts 6

600437

AAS: English Language Arts 7

600438

AAS: English Language Arts 8

600417

AAS: Reading 6

600418

AAS: Reading 7

600419

AAS: Reading 8

600456

AAS: Mathematics 6

600457

AAS: Mathematics 7

600458

AAS: Mathematics 8

600476

AAS: Science 6

600477

AAS: Science 7

600478

AAS: Science 8

600496

AAS: Social Studies 6

600497

AAS: Social Studies 7

600498

AAS: Social Studies 8

Number

Course

600509

AAS: Life Skills 6

600510

AAS: Life Skills 7

600511

AAS: Life Skills 8

6000891

Adaptive Physical Education

Courses above are for students with significant cognitive disabilities earning core credit through Alternate Achievement Standards (AAS), which are aligned with the Alabama Course of Study, and being assessed through the Alabama Alternative Assessment (AAA).

35

NOITARTSIGER

School is a building which has four walls with tomorrow inside.

LON WATTERS

ATHENS MIDDLE SCHOOL CORE COURSES REFERENCE PAGE ENGLISH CORE Number

Course

Fee

200001

Language Arts 7

NA

Honors Language Art 7

NA

Language Arts 8

NA

Honors Language Arts 8

NA

200002aa 200003 200004aa

MATHEMATICS CORE Number 210001 210002aa 210003 210003aa 210005

Course

Fee

Math 7

NA

Honors Math 7 Accelerated

NA

Math 8

NA

Honors Math 8

NA

Algebra I Gr 8 (High School Credit)

NA

SCIENCE CORE Number

Course

Fee

220001

Life Science Gr. 7

NA

Honors Life Science Gr. 7

NA

Physical Science Gr. 8

NA

Honors Physical Science Gr. 8

NA

220002aa 220003 220004aa

SOCIAL STUDIES CORE Number

Course

Fee

230003

Civics Gr. 7

NA

230001

World Geography Gr. 7

NA

230016

World History Gr. 8

NA

38

General Elective Courses Number

Course

Fee

802202

Multimedia School Publications (Eagle Techs) Gr 7 & 8 (Application)

$10

200038

Introduction to Theatre Gr. 7 & 8

NA

802110

Destination Imagination Gr. 7 & 8 (Application)

TBA

230212

World Issues and Civic Involvement Gr. 7 & 8

NA

Skills Lab Gr. 7 & 8

NA

Foreign Language Survey Gr. 7 & 8

NA

270174aa

Foreign Language Survey Extended Gr. 8 (Prerequisite Needed)

NA

802200ah

AVID Secondary Gr. 7 & 8 (Application)

NA

802200ac 270174

Project Lead the Way Electives Number

Course

Fee

560001

PLTW- Design and Modeling Gr. 7

$10

560003

PLTW - Automation and Robotics Gr. 8

$10

560023

PLTW - Medical Detectives Gr. 8

$10

560032

PLTW - Computer Science for Innovators and Makers Gr. 7

$10

560029

PLTW - App Creators Gr. 8

$10

FINE ARTS ELECTIVES Number

Course

FEE

280021aa

Middle School Band Gr. 7

$25

280022aa

Middle School Band Gr. 8

$25

280060

Vocal Choral Music Gr. 7 and 8

$15

280107

Visual Art Gr. 7 and 8

$10

PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES Number

Course

FEE

240001ad

Physical Education Gr. 7 & 8

$20

240001ab

Weight Training – Boys Gr. 7 & 8

$20

240001ac

Weight Training – Girls Gr. 7 & 8

$20

802208am

Cheer/Dance Physical Education – Gr. 7 & 8

TBD

39

ATHENS MIDDLE SCHOOL 2018-2019 7th Grade REGISTRATION FORM

Date Received

Homeroom Teacher (AIS)

Student’s Name (Last, First, Middle)

Date of Birth

Address

Sex

City

State

Zip Code

Home Phone

Father/Guardian’s Name

Work Phone

Mother’s/Guardian’s Name

Work Phone

Student Lives With

Emergency Contact Name

Emergency Contact Relationship

Emergency Contact Phone(s)

Are you planning to attend Summer School?

Yes

No

Yes

No

If yes, what subjects are you taking?

Do you currently have an IEP or 504 Plan?

40

Race

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Please read the Course Selection Guide carefully before you make any decisions.

2. Decide what courses you wish to request and note the ID number of these courses.

3. AMS 7th grade students are allowed to choose two core honors courses for the year as possible consideration.

4. You must list ALL 6 courses you will need to take PLUS TWO elective alternates to complete your schedule. Failure to do this will force AMS administration to select a course for you.

5. List below the courses which you will be taking next year: Subject

Course Number

Course Name

Teacher Signature When Required

Social Studies (Semester)

230003

Civics

NA

Social Studies (Semester)

230001

Geography

NA

Course Name

Teacher Signature When Required

English Math Science

Physical Education Elective (Semester) Elective (Semester) Elective (Semester) Elective (Year)

Alternative Elective Choices

Subject

Course Number

Elective (Semester) Elective (Semester) Elective (Year)

Parent Signature Student Signature

41

ATHENS MIDDLE SCHOOL 2018-2019 8th Grade REGISTRATION FORM

Date Received

Homeroom Teacher (AIS)

Student’s Name (Last, First, Middle)

Date of Birth

Address

Sex

City

State

Zip Code

Home Phone

Father/Guardian’s Name

Work Phone

Mother’s/Guardian’s Name

Work Phone

Student Lives With

Emergency Contact Name

Emergency Contact Relationship

Emergency Contact Phone(s)

Are you planning to attend Summer School?

Yes

No

Yes

No

If yes, what subjects are you taking?

Do you currently have an IEP or 504 Plan?

42

Race

INSTRUCTIONS

1.

2.

3.

4.

Please read the Course Selection Guide carefully before you make any decisions.

Decide what courses you wish to request and note the ID number of these courses.

AMS 8th grade students are allowed to choose three honors courses for possible consideration.

You must list ALL 6 courses you will need to take PLUS TWO elective alternates to complete your schedule. Failure to do this will force AMS administration to select a course for you.

5. List below the courses which you will be taking next year:

Subject

Course Number

Course Name

Teacher Signature When Required

230011

World History

NA

Course Name

Teacher Signature When Required

English Math Science

Social Studies Physical Education Elective (Semester) Elective (Semester) Elective (Semester) Elective (Year)

Alternative Elective Choices Subject

Course Number

Elective (Semester) Elective (Semester) Elective (Year)

Parent Signature Student Signature

43

100 U.S. Highway 31 North Athens, Alabama 35611 256.233.6620 WWW.ACS-K12.ORG/AMS