Thompson School District Middle School Course Guide Book 2012-2013 by Denise Absalom

Table of Contents Bill Reed Middle School………………………………………… 3 Conrad Ball Middle School…………………………………….. 4 Lucile Erwin Middle School…………………………………… 5 Turner Middle School……………………………………………. 6 Walt Clark Middle School………………………………………. 7 6th Grade Core Classes…………………………………………… 9 6th Grade Electives………………………………………………… 13 7th Grade Core Classes…………………………………………… 17 7th Grade Electives………………………………………………… 22 8th Grade Core Classes…………………………………………… 27 8th Grade Electives………………………………………………… 32

Bill Reed Middle School Principal- Arnold Jahnke 370 W. 4th St Loveland, CO 80537 970-613-7200

Environment - Bill Reed Middle School (BRMS) is committed to providing the best possible educational circumstances for students. The shared goal is success for every child. This is achieved in a caring environment that provides educational options, diversity, superior facilities, and a multitude of extracurricular choices. Facilities include an award-winning media center, wireless laptop labs, a classy auditorium that seats 600, two gyms, a photography darkroom and individual lockers for every student. LISA - The Loveland area Integrated School of the Arts (LISA) is one educational option for students at BRMS. We support the middle school component of the K-12 arts integration initiative. Since its beginning in the 2007-2008 school year, the program continues to expand in numbers and we have had requests from as far away as Virginia for visitation by schools in process of implementing a similar arts integration program. LISA students have opportunities to explore exciting nine-week visual and performing arts experiences not available anywhere else. Students also work with nationally and internationally known artists-in-residence who ignite their passion. Core Knowledge - The Core Knowledge program for grades 6-8 is another educational option available to students. Since its beginning here in the 2007-2008 school year, enrollment has grown to over 300 students. Core Knowledge has a sequenced curriculum that is research-based in order to provide instruction on the most critical components of each content area to provide students success in school and life. Information about the Core Knowledge curriculum is available at www.coreknowledge.org. Many options - Our school provides a multitude of activities that engage and empower students - clubs, student government, athletics, visual and performing arts, and academic challenge activities that meet the interest of any student - including Student Council, Odyssey of the Mind, drama/theatre, boys and girls basketball, Book Club, swimming and diving, Chess Club, cross country, MESA, LUC Club, photography, volleyball, "Artitude" Day, wrestling, Jazz Band, Spelling Bee, boys and girls track, Day of Writing Dangerously, and Peer Mediators/Welcome Warriors. Pride Tribe - The Pride Tribe Academic Challenge Program at BRMS helps students be the best they can be. Any student can participate and be successful in this program, which has four levels of achievement. To reach the highest level, students must demonstrate that they have challenged themselves by completing at least three academic challenge activities throughout the year. Students achieving the highest level are recognized in a formal ceremony at the end of the school year. In the 2008-2009 school year, over 320 students achieved the initial level and 124 students achieved the highest level.

Conrad Ball Middle School Principal-Scott Elias 2660 N. Monroe Ave Loveland, CO 80538 970-613-7300

School to Watch – Conrad Ball Middle School is a two-time award winning Colorado Trailblazer School to Watch! This award recognizes how we educate the whole child through a focus on academic excellence, developmental responsiveness, social equity and organization and structures to meet the needs of the young adolescent. Academic excellence – One hundred percent of our staff is highly qualified in their content area. Our staff analyzes standardized assessment data and classroom assessments to plan their instruction. Teachers work with students to identify strengths and areas needing improvement according to Colorado State Standards. Thinking Strategies – Our staff is committed to applying Thinking Strategies in their lessons so students comprehend the content they are learning. Students are taught how to be critical and reflective thinkers in their daily lives. Climate & culture – We believe building relationships with our students is priority number one! As a Positive Behavior Support (PBS) school, we strive to create a safe and civil learning environment so that students can thrive in their education. We recognize students who demonstrate behaviors that support our school motto of Achieve, Belong and Care. Clubs & extracurricular activities – We believe clubs and extracurricular activities are a vital part of the middle school experience. Our students have the opportunity to be involved in the following clubs and extracurricular activities: Yearbook, Photography, Forensics, National Jr. Honor Society, Art Club, Drama, LUC, Student Council, Science Club, Geography Bee, Book Club, Odyssey of the Mind, Chess Club, Lego Robotics, Honor Orchestra, Honor Choir, Jazz Band, Volleyball, Swimming, Diving, Cross Country, Basketball, Wrestling, and Track.

Lucile Erwin Middle School Principal-Diane Worner 4700 Lucerne Ave Loveland, CO 80538 970-613-7600

Name/History: The school is named after Lucile Erwin. In 1938, Lucile began teaching physical

education, dividing her time between Garfield, Lincoln and Washington Schools. She took night classes at UNC, training to become a counselor. Lucile was recognized not only as a great teacher but also as someone deeply involved in the community. Philosophy: Our new middle school is a school for students who are changing from childhood to adolescence. They need something special. Erwin Middle School has been created as a better way to meet the unique needs of the early adolescents. We will attend to the physical, intellectual, emotional and social needs that these students bring to our building. Our middle school students need to be ACCEPTED for who they are and what they value. HEALTHY SELF-ESTEEM IS ESSENTIAL; they need to feel capable, successful, secure, accepted and honored by peers and teachers. Our middle school students need to be in a PERSONAL, CARING and SAFE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT which creates a sense of belonging. Through a clear set of structured expectations and logical consequences, our middle school students will experience ACADEMIC CHALLENGE and have an opportunity to DEVELOP APPROPRIATE SOCIAL SKILLS. Every Erwin Middle School student will EXPERIENCE SUCCESS and be guided to becoming an independent learner. Mission - In the spirit of keeping it simple, our mission is focused on the ABCs: holding ourselves and our students accountable to a standard of excellence; instructing students using research-based best practices that have proven to raise student achievement; and building a culture of PRIDE recognizing and rewarding positive behaviors and actions. PRIDE - PRIDE is our motto and our vision at Erwin Middle School. This acronym defines the character goals of our Positive Behavior Support program and aligns to the International Baccalaureate Learner Profile. •Positive (Understanding and Compassionate) •Respect (Caring and Peaceful) •Integrity (Honest and Ethical) •Discipline (High Expectations) •Excellence (Inquiring and Knowledgeable) Middle Years International Baccalaureate Program - Erwin Middle School is an International Baccalaureate (IB) candidate school and is in the process of being evaluated to determine whether or not we will become an Official International World School Program. Extracurricular programs - At Erwin we offer a wide array of activities for students to participate in that promote sportsmanship, inspire creativity, develop self-confidence, and influence positive relationships including Student Council, National Junior Honor Society, Odyssey of the Mind, Yearbook, MESA (Mathematics, Engineering, Science, Achievement), Jazz Band, Drama Club, Math Counts, Spelling Bee, Geography Bee, Chess Club, Friends of Rachel, Builder's Club, Cross Country, Swimming, Volleyball, Basketball, Track and Wrestling.

Turner Middle School Principal-Bill Siebers 950 Massachusetts Ave Berthoud, CO 80513 970-613-7400

Name/History: Turner Middle School opened in 1920 as Berthoud High School until 1981 when the present high school was opened. The school is named after Robert Turner who came to Loveland in 1969 to work as an administrator for Thompson Schools. He became superintendent in 1980 and retired in 1983. Mission Statement: In partnership with the community, the Thompson Schools will educate all students to assume their current and future responsibilities as individuals, citizens and members of the work force. Academic focus - Across all curriculums, our teachers focus on incorporating critical thinking strategies. Our Professional Learning Communities revolve around critical thinking and how to help students think logically. As a math focus school, selected students who enter the program have an opportunity to complete geometry by the end of their 8th grade year. Students spend time in our math project lab which gives them experiential learning in a real-life format. "Student first" attitude - We are a school that focuses on what is best for our students' success. Our mission is to prepare all students for success as productive citizens and lifelong learners. Turner Middle School has a caring staff and is constantly challenging students through critical thinking and rigorous instruction. Positive Behavior Support - Our school believes in rewarding students for positive behavior. The staff at Turner teaches students how to be a "PRO," which stands for Prepared, Respectful, and being On time. We recognize students through Student of the Month, kindness awards, dragon tokens, positive referrals, and positive postcards that are mailed home. Extracurricular activities - Turner Middle School has a wide variety of extracurricular activities including sports, yearbook, drama, art, orchestra, homework club and a book club. All students can sign up for enrichment activities including chess, Lego Robotics and Odyssey of the Mind. Strong community support - There are several different ways to be involved as a parent at Turner Middle School. Our parents created a PRIDE organization that supports Turner students. We also have a VITAL group, which stands for Volunteers in Thompson Accentuating Learning.

Walt Clark Middle School Principal-Martha Gustafson 2605 Carlisle Dr. Loveland, CO 80537 970-613-5400

Name/History: The school is named after Walt Clark, a teacher and coach at Loveland High School from 1944-1966. Mission Statement: The staff at Walt Clark Middle School is committed to nurturing an orderly, safe, caring environment that: 1. Challenges each individual student's academic potential 2. Encourages each individual student's emotional and social growth 3. Allows each individual student the opportunity to explore a variety of life-related experiences. Culture and climate - We're a small enough school that we try to get to know our kids individually. We are a PBS (Positive Behavior Support) school that tries to catch kids doing the right things. Our acronym, ROARS (Respect, Organization, Attitude for success, Responsibility, and Safety), reflects the emphasis we put on expectations of our students. We try hard to make sure students don't slip through the cracks. Administrators meet regularly with grade-level teams to identify students who may be struggling academically or behaviorally. Interventions are suggested and implemented and then monitored. Our goal is to have each student in our building find success, from the gifted and talented students to the students in our special education programs. Instruction - We recognize that students learn in different ways and we try to address that with an emphasis on differentiated instruction. We have worked with our teachers on strategies to differentiate based on student readiness, student interests and learning profiles, giving them strategies to differentiate in their classroom. Expectations - We expect homework to be done by all of our students. Students who do not get homework turned in are required to attend after-school tutorial sessions to get the work done. Since implementing this policy, we have seen a marked improvement in student grades, largely due to the fact that students don't have "zeros" for homework. Greenhouse effect - One aspect that is completely unique to Walt Clark is our greenhouse. Students in 7th grade life science participate in the experience of growing and maintaining plants, most of which they sell to the public in the spring at our annual plant sale. Students receive hands-on experience that directly applies to lessons in life science that they learn in the classroom. Athletics - We offer a strong athletic program for those interested. We have a varsity program as well as an intramural program for students who are still developing skills. Students who compete for Walt Clark are taught to be representatives of our school and community and demonstrate class and grit throughout the year. Our teams regularly compete for championships in cross country, swimming, basketball, wrestling and track. Our intramural program offers the opportunity to compete against fellow students as a way to develop skills that can lead to participation in athletics in high school. With both programs we are able to provide the chance for students to connect with our school, which in most cases leads to improved performance in the classroom.

6th Grade Core Classes LANGUAGE ARTS BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Language Arts (grade 6) courses build upon studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; prior knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and the mechanics of writing, and include the four aspects of language use: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. These courses may emphasize the use of language for different effects, in different contexts, and for different purposes. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 6.

MATHEMATICS BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Mathematics (grade 6) courses typically emphasize skills in numerical operations (including basic operations and their proper order); measurement; patterns; simple functions; geometry; and concepts of data analysis, including statistics and probability. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 6.

SCIENCE BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Earth/Space Science covers basic principles of earth and space science. These may include plate tectonics, rocks and the rock cycle, weather, ocean currents, movements of the Earth, moon, and planets, components of the galaxy and universe, or other topics consistent with state academic standards for earth and space science.

SOCIAL STUDIES BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Social Studies (grade 6) courses provide a greater understanding of social studies disciplines, including history, geography, civics and government, and economics. These courses often focus on the history, culture, and government of various specific world societies. Typically, students develop skills used in the social studies disciplines. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 6.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, WCMS This is an activity course designed around developing physical fitness and wellness, desirable social traits, knowledge of a variety of activities and developing motor skill. Depending upon which semester (fall/spring) a student is scheduled, the variety of core activities includes soccer, volleyball, flag football, basketball, softball, tumbling, racquet skills, aerobics, fitness testing, track and field and rhythms. This does not preclude that a school site would teach, as deemed appropriate, supplementary activities that fit the weather conditions, class make-Up and facilities.

INTRO TO FOREIGN LANGUAGE SPANISH/FRENCH LEMS Introduction to French and Spanish is designed to develop the beginning communication skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing in the target language. Students will learn simple vocabulary, basic grammar and conversational patters. Students will also be introduced to the Frenchspeaking and Spanish-speaking countries by exploring and researching a variety of cultural elements.

ART LEMS Sixth grade artists will create both two-dimensional (drawing & painting) and three-dimensional art (clay & sculpture), and learn and apply the elements of art to all work. Students will integrate the IB areas of interaction, MYP art criteria, and the creative process into all units. Students will have the opportunity to express their creativity and communicate by producing art, which reflects their interests and knowledge. No previous art experience required.

COMPUTER BRMS In 6th grade Computer Literacy Class students learn life-long skill that will help them not only while using computers at school but at home. The units in this class encompass: keyboarding skills, word processing, spread sheets (including setting up formulas to do calculations and charting and graphing of information), internet use skills (including etiquette when using the net), multimedia (PowerPoint), and computer graphics. Students learn how to apply their creative ideas to various activities in class, as well as how to apply these skills to subject area projects and assignments.

MUSIC (BAND, ORCHESTRA OR CHORUS) LEMS Band- Sixth grade band classes are designed to teach basic music concepts and performances fundamental to develop a more balanced individual. No previous experience is necessary. Through three concerts a year a variety of individual and group performance opportunities create principled an critical thinking musicians. We create a community within our classes as well as provide community and service with outside performances. We believe that music is the ultimate example of Human Ingenuity. Our goal is to promote music as an enjoyable life-long skill. The family is responsible for providing instruments with the exception of some large instruments

that are provided by the school. Students wishing to play drums must have two years prior piano music training. Studentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s wishing to play saxophone will start with the clarinet. Feel free to contact the band directors with any questions.

Orchestra-Orchestra provides an opportunity for all students to learn to play violin viola, cello and string bass in an ensemble setting. While learning correct performance techniques on their chosen instrument, the student will also gain a basic understanding of music theory. Students will explore music of cultures from around the world, along with an introduction to the great composer of our western heritage. Students will begin an MYP developmental workbook in 6th grade to record the process and development of their learning.

Chorus-The choral program covers a wide range of musical literature, from sacred to secular, classic to pop, and is presented in four formal concerts throughout the school year. The core of musical learning in choir is the development of body alignment, proper breathing techniques and a focus on vocal health. The overall goal of the choir program is to give the student a set of knowledge and skills that will encourage them to love music and become life-long learners. No previous experience is needed to participant in choir at any grade level.

6th Grade Elective Classes PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH TMS Physical Education (grade 6) courses typically involve the acquisition of knowledge and skills that provide the foundation for sport, a physically active lifestyle, and social development through physical activity. Activities typically include those that increase strength, endurance, and flexibility; reinforce safe technique; teach the rules and conventions of games and sports; and explore the relationship between physical activity and health. Health topics (such as the effects of drugs and alcohol, sexual education, and healthy lifestyles) may also be included. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 6.

BAND BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS General Band courses develop studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; technique for playing brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments and cover a variety of nonspecified band literature styles (concert, marching, orchestral, and modern styles).

ORCHESTRA BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, WCMS Orchestra courses are designed to develop studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; abilities to play brass, woodwind, percussion, and string instruments, covering a variety of string and orchestral literature styles.

CHOIR/CHORUS BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Chorus courses provide the opportunity to sing a variety of choral literature styles for menâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and/or womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s voices and are designed to develop vocal techniques and the ability to sing parts.

ART BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Art (grade 6) courses provide to students activities that foster creative expression, communication through artistic endeavor, and appreciation of culture and heritage. Activities may include those that enable students to refine their technique, increase their artistic vocabulary, express themselves and their world view, make connections to other content areas, develop their own aesthetic, and strengthen their critical abilities. Although typically involving the visual arts (drawing, painting, sculpture, crafts, and the like), these courses may also include other forms of art (for example, dance, music, and theater). Specific course content conforms to any existing state standards for grade 6.

COMPUTER LITERACY/DESKTOP PUBLISHING CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Computer Literacy courses provide to students the knowledge and ability to use computers and technology efficiently. Typically, course content includes exposure to word-processing, spreadsheet, and presentation applications, but also may include the various uses of computers in modern society. Specific course content aligns with state standards to promote studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; technological literacy.

INTRO INTO FOREIGN LANGUAGES BRMS, CBMS, TMS, WCMS Foreign Language (grade 6) courses engage students in language arts skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) necessary to communicate in a foreign language. Cultural and/or historical aspects of the people(s) speaking the language(s) being studied are typically included as topics of study. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 6.

7TH Grade Core Classes LANGUAGE ARTS BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Language Arts (grade 7) courses build upon studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; prior knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and the mechanics of writing, and include the four aspects of language use: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Beyond emphasizing different uses for language, these courses may also include using language (particularly written text) to construct meaning and connections. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 7.

MATHEMATICS BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Mathematics (grade 7) courses typically emphasize proficiency in skills involving numbers and operations; measurement; patterns; functions; algebraic formulas; geometry; and concepts of data analysis, including statistics and probability. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 7.

SCIENCE BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Life Science courses cover the basic principles of life and life processes. These topics may include cells, species, ecosystems, reproduction, genetics, or other topics consistent with state academic standards for life science.

SOCIAL STUDIES BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Social Studies (grade 7) courses provide continued development of understanding and skills in the social studies disciplines: history, geography, civics and government, and economics. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 7.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, WCMS Physical Education (grade 7) courses typically involve the acquisition of knowledge and skills that provide the foundation for sport, a physically active lifestyle, and social development through physical activity. Activities typically include those that increase strength, endurance, and flexibility; reinforce safe technique; teach the rules and conventions of games and sports; and explore the relationship between physical activity and health. Health topics (such as the effects of drugs and alcohol, sexual education, and healthy lifestyles) may also be included. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 7.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE LEMS Foreign Language (grade 7) courses emphasize the language arts skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) necessary to communicate in a foreign language. Grammar and syntax, vocabulary, and applicable accents typically are studied so that students have the knowledge and ability to express themselves and understand others. Students usually explore the customs, history, and art forms of the people(s) whose language is being studied. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 7.

ART LEMS Seventh grade artists will create both two-dimensional (drawing & painting) and three-dimensional art (clay, sculpture wire, paper-Mache). Students will apply both principles and elements of art to all work. Students will integrate the IB Areas of Interaction, MYP art criteria and the creative process into all units. Students will have the opportunity to express their creativity and communication by producing art, which reflects their interests and knowledge. No previous art experience is required.

MUSIC (BAND, ORCHESTRA OR CHORUS) LEMS Band-This class is open to all 7th grade students with previous band experience. 7th grade band classes are designed to expand basic music performance fundamentals through daily rehearsals. The goals include developing consistency and accuracy in technique and style and playing habits to develop a more balanced individual. Students will begin to develop a high level of independent musicianship. Through four concerts per year, students receive a variety of individual and group performance opportunities to create principled and critical thinking musicians. We create a community within our classes as well as provide community and service with outside performances. We believe that music is the ultimate example of Human Ingenuity. Our goal is to promote music as an enjoyable life-long skill.

Orchestra- Orchestra provides an opportunity for all students to learn to play violin, viola, cello and string bass in an ensemble setting. While learning correct performance techniques on their chosen instrument, the student will also gain a basic understanding of music theory. Students will explore music of cultures from around the world, along with an introduction to the great composers of our western heritage. Students will continue to work in their MYP developmental workbooks that they began in 6th grade to record the process and development of their learning. By participating in school concerts and assemblies, orchestra students will develop the sense of pride, joy, and of community that is to be gained through musical experiences. Seventh grade orchestra begins to work more consistently in harmony. Technical passages become more difficult. Seventh grade orchestra performs four (4) concerts yearly, plus opportunities to perform in solo and ensemble festivals.

Chorus- The LEMS choral program covers a wide range of musical literature, from sacred to secular, classic to pop, and is presented in four formal concerts throughout the school year. At the core of musical learning in LEMS choir is the development of body alignment, proper breathing techniques and a focus on vocal health. The overall goal of the LEMS choir program is to give the students a set of knowledge and skills that will encourage them to love music and become life-long learners. No previous experience is needed to participate in choir at any grade level.

FRENCH LEMS French I is a two-year course that begins in 7th grade. It focuses on the development of students' communicative competence, their approaches to learning another language, and their understanding of the cultures of the Francophone world. Students will become risk-takers as they learn to communicate in real-life contexts. An important component of language classes is the use of the language beyond the classroom in order to apply knowledge of the language in the real world, which in many cases is accomplished through the integration of technology into the classroom. 7th Grade will focus on greetings and leavings, numbers, expressing likes and dislikes, cafĂŠ food, drink and conversation, school supplies and classes, and an introduction to family

SPANISH LEMS Seventh grade Spanish I emphasizes a full-year course to orient the student to the language, customs and culture of the Spanish speaking world. Throughout the year, students will achieve a higher level of competency in the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students learn and are encouraged to use Spanish as the means of communication in the classroom. Oral activities are designed to help students develop confidence in using their Spanish. Speaking and writing tasks are usually open-ended to cater for a range of abilities. Through the Areas of Interaction, students will gain insight into aspects of the ways of living/culture in Spanish speaking countries. By the end of the course, students should be able to take part in simple conversations and dialogues and to read and write short texts in Spanish. Great importance is placed upon the students taking responsibility for their own learning. This course along with Spanish II equals the curriculum of the high school class Spanish.

7th Grade Elective Classes PE/HEALTH TMS Physical Education (grade 7) courses typically involve the acquisition of knowledge and skills that provide the foundation for sport, a physically active lifestyle, and social development through physical activity. Activities typically include those that increase strength, endurance, and flexibility; reinforce safe technique; teach the rules and conventions of games and sports; and explore the relationship between physical activity and health. Health topics (such as the effects of drugs and alcohol, sexual education, and healthy lifestyles) may also be included. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 7.

CHOIR/CHORUS BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Chorus courses provide the opportunity to sing a variety of choral literature styles for men’s and/or women’s voices and are designed to develop vocal techniques and the ability to sing parts.

ART BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Art (grade 7) courses provide to students activities that foster creative expression, communication through artistic endeavor, and appreciation of culture and heritage. Activities may include those that enable students to refine their technique, increase their artistic vocabulary, express themselves and their world view, make connections to other content areas, develop their own aesthetic, and strengthen their critical abilities. Although typically involving the visual arts (drawing painting, sculpture, crafts, and the like), these courses may also include other forms of art (for example, dance, music, and theater). Specific course content conforms to any existing state standards for grade 7.

CONSUMER & FAMILY STUDIES BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Family and Consumer Science—Comprehensive courses are inclusive studies of knowledge and skills that are useful for the efficient and productive management of the home. Course topics typically include foods and nutrition; clothing; child development and care; housing design, decoration, and maintenance; consumer decisions and personal financial management; and interpersonal relationships.

INTRO TO INDUSTRIAL TECH BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Industrial Arts courses expose students to the tools and machines that they may encounter in manufacturing-related occupations and enable them to develop the skills they need to use these tools in various applications. Course topics typically include (but are not limited to) drawing and planning, electricity, graphic arts, woodwork, leatherwork, metalwork, plastics, and power technology. These courses typically cover general safety and career exploration as well.

MULTIMEDIA APPLICATIONS/COMPUTER LIT BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Computer Literacy courses provide to students the knowledge and ability to use computers and technology efficiently. Typically, course content includes exposure to word-processing, spreadsheet, and presentation applications, but also may include the various uses of computers in modern society. Specific course content aligns with state standards to promote students technological literacy.

FRENCH 1A BRMS, CBMS, WCMS Foreign Language (grade 7) courses emphasize the language arts skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) necessary to communicate in a foreign language. Grammar and syntax, vocabulary, and applicable accents typically are studied so that students have the knowledge and ability to express themselves and understand others. Students usually explore the customs, history, and art forms of the people(s) whose language is being studied. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 7.

SPANISH 1A BRMS, CBMS, TMS, WCMS Foreign Language (grade 7) courses emphasize the language arts skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) necessary to communicate in a foreign language. Grammar and syntax, vocabulary, and applicable accents typically are studied so that students have the knowledge and ability to express themselves and understand others. Students usually explore the customs, history, and art forms of the people(s) whose language is being studied. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 7.

8TH Grade Core Classes LANGUAGE ARTS/LITERACY BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Language Arts (grade 8) courses build upon studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; prior knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and the mechanics of writing, and include the four aspects of language use: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Typically, these courses use various genres of literature to improve reading skills, and they link writing exercises for different purposes to those reading selections. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 8.

MATH BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Mathematics (grade 8) courses typically emphasize proficiency in skills involving numbers and operations, measurement, patterns, simple functions, algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 8.

GEOMETRY LEMS, TMS Geometry courses, emphasizing an abstract, formal approach to the study of geometry, typically include topics such as properties of plane and solid figures; deductive methods of reasoning and use of logic; geometry as an axiomatic system including the study of postulates, theorems, and formal proofs; concepts of congruence, similarity, parallelism, perpendicularity, and proportion; and rules of angle measurement in triangles.

SCIENCE BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Physical Science (prior-to-secondary) courses cover basic principles of physical science, such as matter, energy, force, and motion. Topics may include conservation of energy and matter, the atomic model, the periodic table, electricity, or other topics consistent with state academic standards for physical science.

U.S. HISTORY BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Social Studies (grade 8) courses provide continued development of understanding and skills in the social studies disciplines: history, geography, civics and government, and economics. Typically, these courses focus on single disciplines at a time (e.g., state-specific history and government, U.S. history, world history, or civics) to develop disciplinerelated skills. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 8.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, WCMS Physical Education (grade 8) courses typically involve the acquisition of knowledge and skills that provide the foundation for sport, a physically active lifestyle, and social development through physical activity. Activities typically include those that increase strength, endurance, and flexibility; reinforce safe technique; teach the rules and conventions of games and sports; and explore the relationship between physical activity and health. Health topics (such as the effects of drugs and alcohol, sexual education, and healthy lifestyles) may also be included. Specific content depends upon state standards for grade 8.

ART LEMS Eighth grade artists will learn and apply a variety of drawing and painting techniques to both traditional and non-traditional canvasses. They will apply both elements and principles of art to all work. Students will integrate the IB Areas of Interaction, MYP Art criteria and the creative process into all units. Students will have the opportunity to express their creativity and communicate by producing art, which reflects their interests and knowledge. No previous art experience is required.

MUSIC (BAND, ORCHESTRA, OR CHORUS) LEMS Band-Eighth grade band is open to all 8th grade students with previous band experience. In 8th grade band the focus is to solidify basic music performance fundamentals. The goals include expanding rhythm and technical expectations, ensemble control and music expression to develop a more balances individual. Students have multiple performance opportunities including concerts, elementary tours and festivals to create principles and critical thinking musicians. We create a community within our classes as well as provide community service outside the classroom performances. We believe that music is the ultimate example of IB Human Ingenuity. Our goal is to promote music as an enjoyable, life-long skill.

Orchestra-Eighth grade orchestra provides an opportunity for all students to learn to play violin, viola, cello and string bass in an ensemble setting. It is a performance class. Eighth grade string students are challenged to address more difficult technical requirements; shifting, vibrato and advanced bow techniques are begun. Eight-grade orchestra performs four (4) concerts yearly plus opportunities to perform in solo and ensemble festivals and various venues throughout the community.

Chorus-The choral program covers a wide range of musical literature, from sacred to secular, classic to pop and is presented in four (4) concerts throughout the school year. At the core of musical learning in choir is the development of body alignment, proper breathing techniques and a focus on vocal health. The overall goal of the choir program is to give students a set of knowledge and skills that will encourage them to love music and become life-long learners. No previous experience is needed to participate in choir.

FRENCH LEMS Seventh grade French is a two-year course that began in 7th grade, and continues into 8th grade. It focuses on the development of studentsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; communicative competence, their continued approaches to learning this language, and their understanding of the cultures of the Francophone world. Communicative competence is divided into three modes: speaking and writing as an interactive process in which students learn to communicate with other speakers of French; reading, listening and viewing as a receptive process in which comprehension is developed; and speaking and writing in a presentational context in which students are focused on organization of thoughts and awareness of their audience in delivering information. 8th Grade focus will revisit French IA, family and nationalities and jobs, shopping for clothes and food, house vocabulary, Paris, and city maps.

SPANISH LEMS Eighth grade Spanish emphasizes a full-year course to orient the student to the language, customs and culture of the Spanish speaking world. Throughout the year, students will achieve a higher level of competency in the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students learn and are encouraged to use Spanish as the means of communication in the classroom. Oral activities are designed to help students develop confidence in using their Spanish. Speaking and writing tasks are usually open-ended to cater for a range of abilities. Through the Areas of Interaction, students will gain insight into aspects of the ways of living/culture in Spanish speaking countries. By the end of the course, students should be able to take part in simple conversations and dialogues and to read and write short texts in Spanish. Great importance is placed upon the students taking responsibility for their own learning.

8TH Grade Elective Classes ART BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Art (grade 8) courses provide to students activities that foster creative expression, communication through artistic endeavor, and appreciation of culture and heritage. Activities may include those that enable students to refine their technique, increase their artistic vocabulary, express themselves and their world view, make connections to other content areas, develop their own aesthetic, and strengthen their critical abilities. Although typically involving the visual arts (drawing, painting, sculpture, crafts, and the like), these courses may also include other forms of art (for example, dance, music, and theater). Specific course content conforms to any existing state standards for grade 8.

BAND BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS General Band courses develop students’ technique for playing brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments and cover a variety of nonspecified band literature styles (concert, marching, orchestral, and modern styles).

CHOIR/CHORUS BRMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Chorus courses provide the opportunity to sing a variety of choral literature styles for men’s and/or women’s voices and are designed to develop vocal techniques and the ability to sing parts.

CONSUMER-FAMILY STUDIES BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Comprehensive courses are inclusive studies of knowledge and skills that are useful for the efficient and productive management of the home. Course topics typically include foods and nutrition; clothing; child development and care; housing design, decoration, and maintenance; consumer decisions and personal financial management; and interpersonal relationships.

FRENCH 1A CBMS This class is designed for learners to explore French and begin to develop the beginning communication skills in the target language. Embedded in cultural themes, students will learn vocabulary and basic grammar and conversational patterns in order to start communicating with others in the world. Students will also be introduced to the French or Spanish-speaking countries by studying a variety of cultural elements in order to start to develop a 21st century global perspective. Upon successful completion of Introduction to French or Spanish, students can take French or Spanish Level I classes for ninth grade in high school.

INDUSTRIAL TECH BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Industrial Arts courses expose students to the tools and machines that they may encounter in manufacturing-related occupations and enable them to develop the skills they need to use these tools in various applications. Course topics typically include (but are not limited to) drawing and planning, electricity, graphic arts, woodwork, leatherwork, metalwork, plastics, and power technology. These courses typically cover general safety and career exploration as well.

INTRO TO FRENCH BRMS, CBMS, WCMS French courses introduce and then extend students’ skills in speaking, reading, writing, and comprehending the French language and students’ knowledge of French-speaking cultures. Initial courses emphasize grammar and syntax, vocabulary, and the spoken accent so that students have an understanding of the language and its rules. Later courses advance students’ knowledge and ability to express themselves beyond basic communication (and understand others, either in a written or verbal format), seeking to enable students to express more complex concepts, in different tenses, and to do so more easily. Students usually explore the customs, history, and art forms of French-speaking people to deepen their understanding of the culture(s).

INTRO TO SPANISH BRMS, CBMS, TMS, WCMS Spanish courses introduce and then extend students’ skills in speaking, reading, writing, and comprehending the Spanish language and students’ knowledge of Spanish-speaking cultures. Initial courses emphasize grammar and syntax, vocabulary, and the spoken accent so that students have an understanding of the language and its rules. Later courses advance students’ knowledge and ability to express themselves beyond basic communication (and understand others, either in a written or verbal format), seeking to enable students to express more complex concepts, in different tenses, and to do so more easily. Students usually explore the customs, history, and art forms of Spanish-speaking people to deepen their understanding of the culture(s).

MULTIMEDIA APPLICATIONS/COMPUTER LITERACY BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Computer Literacy courses provide to students the knowledge and ability to use computers and technology efficiently. Typically, course content includes exposure to word-processing, spreadsheet, and presentation applications, but also may include the various uses of computers in modern society. Specific course content aligns with state standards to promote students

PE/HEALTH BRMS, CBMS, LEMS, TMS, WCMS Physical Education (grade 8) courses typically involve the acquisition of knowledge and skills that provide the foundation for sport, a physically active lifestyle, and social development through physical activity. Activities typically include those that increase strength, endurance, and flexibility; reinforce safe technique; teach the rules and conventions of games and sports; and explore the relationship between physical activity and health. Health topics (such as the effects of drugs and alcohol, sexual education, and healthy lifestyles) may also be included. Specific content depends

SPANISH 1B BRMS, CBMS, TMS, WCMS Foreign Language (grade 8) courses emphasize the language arts skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) necessary to communicate in a foreign language. Grammar and syntax, vocabulary, and applicable accents typically are studied so that students have the knowledge and ability to express themselves and understand others. Students usually explore the customs, history, and art forms of the people(s) whose language is being studied. Specific content depends upon state