MISSION OF JENKS PUBLIC SCHOOLS
Jenks Public Schools, inspired by a tradition of excellence, is committed to the shared responsibility of preparing all learners for productive, responsible citizenship in an ever-changing world.
Jenks Middle School Course Planning Guide TABLE OF CONTENTS
A Message from Dr. Nick Brown
Enrollment and Scheduling Process STUDENT SUPPORTS
The Interdisciplinary Team
Mathematics Course Progressions
Advanced Courses
Elective Courses
From the Counseling Office
English Language Development (ELD) Program
Gifted Services
Special Services
WEB (Where Everybody Belongs)
Oklahoma’s Promise
Proficiency-Based Promotion ELECTIVE COURSES
College Preparation
Agricultural Education
Fine Arts
Physical Education
Health
Technology
World Languages
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
Jenks Public Schools prohibits discrimination in its education programs and activities, admission programs of students, recruitment, selection and/or employment on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender expression, gender identity, genetic information, pregnancy, age, national origin, veteran status, or disability. The District provides equal access to designated youth groups, including the Boy Scouts of America. Jenks Public Schools complies with federal and state regulations for implementing Title IX of the Education Amendment of 1972, Title VI, The Age Discrimination Act, Section 504, and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).
Board Policy 1.30, Revised August 2020
A Message from Dr. Nick Brown
Dear Middle School Parents,
In less than six months, your 6th grade child will begin a new chapter in his or her young life and your 7th grader will continue learning at the Middle School. Middle school can be both an exhilarating and stressful period of time for everyone involved. We all know that adolescence is a period of rapid change. In fact, it’s been said that between the ages of 12 and 17, a teenager’s parents can age as much as 20 years!
The teachers and staff of Jenks Middle School are excited to welcome your child to our school and work with you to guide them successfully through these transitions. We are already preparing for the 2024-2025 school year by identifying course requirements and staffing needs. In a few weeks, you and your child will complete the enrollment process by making elective choices. All students will be assigned to an academic team consisting of the core subjects of language arts, science, social studies, and mathematics.
We strongly believe in the premise that young adolescents should be engaged in learning that is relevant, challenging, integrative, and exploratory. Because of this, we strive to provide a variety of elective options to appeal to a wide number of students, while also giving opportunities for skill development and cognitive growth.
That being said, the scheduling process for over 1,800 students is a challenging and time-consuming process that begins in March and doesn’t conclude until early August. Your child will be given three periods for electives next year. Since we have a mix of year-long and semester long elective choices, you and your child should pick the equivalent of three class periods. These options will be discussed in further detail in this enrollment guide as well as during our counselor’s visits to the Intermediate school sites and with continuing 7th graders, and during parent information meetings. Semester electives are subject to enrollment numbers and schedule availability. We will make every effort to fulfill your child’s requests, yet with the large number of students at JMS we do reserve some flexibility to allow for balancing of class sizes. Students may be assigned to an alternate elective if space is not available in a class that he/she requested.
We look forward to a wonderful year and appreciate your support and guidance as you prepare your child’s enrollment form.
Respectfully,
Nick Brown, Ph.D. Site Principal
PHASE I: February
1. Planning Guide and enrollment card distributed to students.
2. Parents, guardians and students discuss and determine course requests for the 2024-25 school year.
3. Students return the enrollment card with course selections, teacher approvals, and parent signatures.
PHASE II: March/April
1. Enrollment conferences held to finalize enrollment
2. Number of course sections based on student pre-enrollment requests determined by administrators
PHASE III: May/June
1. Course pre-enrollment requests reviewed by students
2. Requests for course changes submitted by students prior to the June 15 deadline for both semesters
PHASE IV: June
1. Master schedule built with teacher and room assignments completed according to student course requests
THE SCHEDULING PROCESS AT JMS
This booklet is a synopsis of the courses offered for the 2024-25 school year. It includes required and elective courses and activities for grades seven and eight. It is designed to help students and parents select courses for pre-enrollment for the 2024-25 school term. Demand for the course and classroom availability determine class offerings. To be offered, each course must have a specified number of pre-enrolled students.
The scheduling process begins with the scheduling team (counselors and administrators) meeting with groups of students and parents to explain the various aspects of the program of studies, as well as the overall sequence and limitations of the scheduling process. Students and parents are then encouraged to begin planning the student’s individual program of study. It is the joint responsibility of school and family to ensure that each student is correctly enrolled and meets any prerequisite requirements.
TIPS FOR USING THE PLANNING GUIDE
● Course descriptions are listed by department and in alphabetical order. Some courses may be listed by progression.
● Fees: Some electives courses require fees to cover the cost of supplies and/or membership fees.
● Prerequisite: Some courses have prerequisites for enrollment (a designated course must have been previously completed, prerequisite course grades, interview, application, etc.
STUDENT SUPPORTS
The Interdisciplinary Team
Students will be assigned to an interdisciplinary team consisting of language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies. Consultants will be used for students with special needs and students who are English Learners.
Language Arts
Language arts classes focus on fine tuning students’ abilities to read, discuss, appreciate, and respond to various forms of literature and write in multiple modes i.e., narrative, informational, argumentative, poetry. Grammar and mechanics are emphasized through written communication and vocabulary is expanded through study of word origins, roots and affixes, contextual meanings, and levels of usage.
Mathematics
A student’s mathematics placement entering middle school will largely depend on the course completed during 6th grade. Many students, with successful completion of 6th grade Mathematics will be placed in the 7th grade Mathematics course. This course is the on-level math course for seventh grade students. Some students may qualify for Pre-Algebra based on a combination of data including scores on STAR assessments, placement tests in the spring of the 6 th grade year, and teacher recommendations. These courses teach the strategies of estimation, use of calculators, functions and patterns of mathematics, principles of probability and statistics, and continue preview of geometry and algebra concepts. Students who have satisfactorily completed Pre-Algebra in sixth grade will be enrolled in high school level Algebra I and those who have successfully completed Algebra I in sixth grade will be enrolled in high school level Geometry. Determining proper math placement is a team effort. Students will be placed in the appropriate math course based on a variety of factors including performance in their current math class, teacher recommendation and test scores. See below for the JPS Mathematics Course Progressions.
Mathematics Course Progressions
7th-12th Grades
If a student is taking …. Next year, the student could be enrolled in…
6th Grade Math
7th Grade Math
Pre-Algebra
Algebra 1
Geometry
7th Grade Math
Pre-Algebra
Algebra I
Pre-Algebra
Algebra I
Algebra I
Geometry - ALL students passing Algebra 1
Math of Finance - Seniors ONLY
Intermediate Algebra (will commit student to enrolling in Algebra II the following year Algebra II
Advanced Algebra II
Math of Finance – Seniors ONLY
Intermediate Algebra Algebra II
Algebra II or
Advanced Algebra II
(Note: See course descriptions for more details about these course options)
Trigonometry/College Algebra
Precalculus Probability and
(Note: See course descriptions for more details about these course options)
Precalculus/ Trigonometry Or Advanced Precalculus/ Trigonometry
(Note: See course descriptions for more details about these course options)
Advanced Placement Calculus AB
Probability and Statistics
Business Calculus
Math of Finance
College Career-Ready Math - Seniors ONLY
Advanced Placement Statistics
Business Calculus
Advanced Placement Calculus AB
Advanced Placement Statistics
Probability and Statistics
Advanced Placement Calculus BC
Advanced Placement Statistics
Probability and Statistics
Trigonometry/College Algebra
Precalculus/Trigonometry
Advanced Placement Statistics
Advanced Precalculus/Trigonometry
Advanced Placement Calculus AB
Advanced Placement Calculus BC
Advanced Placement Statistics
Advanced Placement Calculus BC
Differential Equations
Science
Calculus III/Differential Equations
Linear Algebra/Calculus III
Differential Equations
Advanced Placement Statistics
Linear Algebra/Calculus III (will be available 24-25 school year)
Science classes in 7th grade use the 5-E model (Engage, Explore, Explain, Elaborate, & Evaluate) as the structure for studying and learning content in the major fields of science i.e., life science, physical science, and Earth/space science. The curriculum is delivered through the use of exploring natural phenomena, inquiry-based experimentation, and academic research while using science & engineering practices and proper lab safety procedures. Students will utilize a variety of graphs, charts, diagrams and models to communicate their data-based conclusions while making connections to the cross-cutting concepts of science.
Social Studies
Social studies at 7th grade focuses on the geography of the Eastern Hemisphere and social studies at 8th grade engages students in study of United States history from exploration through the Civil War. Study of primary sources, work with map and geography skills and discussion of the complex blend of geographical, historical, political, economic, and other cultural influences shaping the world as we know it today will be the focus for both courses.
Advanced courses at Jenks are based on two important premises. The first is the expectation that all students can perform well at rigorous academic levels. So, the courses are open to all students who want to engage in deeper and more complex work in the subject area i.e., reading more complex texts in language arts, designing, and implementing inquiry investigations in science, wrestling with real-world problems in mathematics and sharing thinking and solution pathways with peers, and synthesizing learning across multiple texts in social studies.
The second important premise is that the advanced courses focus on the skills, strategies, and knowledge growth for success in Advanced Placement courses at high school. Advanced courses will grow students’ skills in close reading, writing for varied audiences and purposes, analyzing data to draw conclusions, engaging in hands-on laboratory investigations, exploring phenomena, solving problems, synthesizing understanding across multiple texts, and making presentations.
Additionally, to meet the learning demands in advanced courses, students will need these performance skills: organization and time management, commitment to a task, dedication to meeting deadlines, responsibility, and self-motivation.
Elective Courses
It is developmentally advisable for middle school students to explore a variety of elective subjects. Students will have three elective class periods daily and can select from the options outlined in this course planning guide.
There are some courses which will require students to pay for supplies, instruments, and/or uniforms. It is not the intent of Jenks Public Schools to limit student choices due to cost; therefore, any student who desires to enroll in one of these courses and is unable to cover the cost should contact a counselor. Teachers may be contacted for additional information concerning the exact costs that are involved.
From the Counseling Office
The counseling office at the middle school provides a comprehensive program to help the middle school experience be successful for all students. All members of the school staff will be working together in an effort to build the confidence and self-esteem of all students. Certified counselors are available to facilitate individual and group sessions, which will address the cognitive, physical, and affective needs of the student. Counselors are assigned based on students’ teams and are available to assist students, teachers, and parents throughout the school year.
English Language Development (ELD) Program
The English Language Development (ELD) Program supports English Learners in developing social, instructional, and academic language skills in the four language domains: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Placement in the ELD program is determined by the state required WIDA Screener test or the ACCESS test when another language is spoken at home. At the middle school the ELD Program offers multiple support levels for English Learners. Our goal is to help our students exit the program and gain English language proficiency in the five language standards: Standard 1 - Social and Instructional Language, Standard 2 - Language of Language Arts, Standard 3 - Language of Mathematics, Standard 4Language of Science, and Standard 5 - Language of Social Studies.
Gifted Services
The Jenks Gifted Education Program identifies intellectually gifted students and challenges them through differentiation of learning environments and instruction that is rich in depth and complexity. Students qualify for the program by meeting certain criteria in compliance with Oklahoma state regulations and the District’s gifted plan. Challenging courses are available in a variety of areas to provide opportunities for students to pursue their strengths, passions, or interests.
Students identified as gifted are highly encouraged to enroll in an Advanced course. The Site Gifted Coordinator serves as consultants for classroom teachers in their efforts to meet each student's needs.
Special Services
The District recognizes that each student learns in a unique manner. Despite individual differences, most students learn through traditional methods. However, these methods will not always be adequate to meet the needs of some students. The Special Services Department exists to help individuals achieve their full educational potential. Each Jenks campus has a multi-disciplinary team that serves the student who qualifies for placement in special education. Certified specialists staff these classes and programs. Special Services include programs to meet the needs of the student in the following areas: hearing-impaired, orthopedically handicapped, mentally handicapped, speech / language impaired, emotionally disturbed, other health-impaired, learning disabled, visually-impaired, multi-handicapped, homebound services, autism, deafblindness, and traumatic brain injury.
Alternate Diploma Plan for Special Education
WEB (Where Everybody Belongs)
WEB is a peer-to-peer transitional program that stands for 'Where Everybody Belongs.' After an application process and training, identified 8th grade WEB leaders lead the 7th graders in small groups during an orientation on the first day of school, helping them become familiar with the middle school and answering questions. Throughout the year the WEB leaders push into 7th grade Advisory classes to lead different lessons on problem solving, preparing for tests, gossip, etc. WEB is a program that helps students form connections and feel a part of their school community.
Athletics
At the middle school level, many athletic programs transition to becoming school sponsored programs. While some of our athletic programs meet as a part of the regular school day, it is important to note that some do not. Sports that are included in the school day will meet either 1st hour or 7th hour. If you are involved in a sport that meets during the school day, the counseling office will communicate directly with you and discuss how this affects your elective course requests and class schedule.
Oklahoma’s Promise
Oklahoma's Promise is a need-based college scholarship program funded by the Oklahoma Legislature. If your family meets the need requirement (a total family income of $60,000 or less) at the time of application, Oklahoma's Promise can be a way to pay for your child’s college tuition.
Parents must enroll their child in Oklahoma's Promise in 8th, 9th, 10th or 11th Grade. Also students must plan to meet the scholarship requirements in high school. For more information on the program go to www.okpromise.org.
These tests give advanced students an opportunity to demonstrate proficiency in a course. By passing a credit exam (with a 90 percent), students can then “skip” or “test-out” of that course and move on to the next level. These exams are offered twice yearly – at the beginning and the conclusion of each school year. Pre-registration is required. Contact the counseling office for more information.
Translations for Elective Courses
Zomi Translation
Traducción en español
ELECTIVE COURSES
College
Preparation
AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination)
GNRL317
Grade: 7
2 Semesters
AVID (Advancement via Individual Determination)
990
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Cinema and Literature
ENGL302
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Social
Studies of Sports
SOST320
Grades: 7,8
1 Semester
Introduction to Forensic Science
SCIE301
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
PASS (Preparing for Academic Student Success)
Prerequisite: Acceptance through application and interview process.
The AVID elective class prepares students for admission and success in four-year colleges and universities. Students receive instruction in writing, inquiry, collaboration, and reading strategies in addition to note-taking and organizational skills that are necessary for success in rigorous courses.
Note: Students are required to enroll in an advanced course in addition to the AVID elective class.
Prerequisite: Acceptance through application and interview process.
The AVID elective class prepares students for admission and success in four-year colleges and universities. Students receive instruction in writing, inquiry, collaboration, and reading strategies in addition to note-taking and organizational skills that are necessary for success in rigorous courses.
Note: Students are required to enroll in an advanced course in addition to the AVID elective class.
In this course, students will explore the intersection between the written word and its adaptation on the screen. The class will study how filmmakers choose to portray an author’s work and how that work changes and develops when in a different medium. Through discussion and analysis, students will build a knowledge of cinematic design, screenwriting, literary themes, and the importance of historical context. Those taking the course should have an interest in films and storytelling.
This course will explore the areas of US History 1865-Present, Economy, and US Government but through the focus of sports. By offering this course at Jenks Middle School, students will be exposed to different content from each of those subjects. This course will offer those students a chance to explore those areas, but through the lens of sports.
This course introduces disciplines in forensic science through inquiry-based learning. Included in the course is the history of Forensic Science, the application of the scientific process to forensic analysis, procedures and principles of crime scene investigation, fingerprints, physical and trace evidence, the law, and court-room procedures from the perspective of the forensic scientist. Through hands-on inquiry-based labs, and analysis of fictional crime scenarios, students learn about forensic tools, technical resources, forming and testing hypotheses, proper data collection, and scientific data-based conclusions for investigation and mock trials.
This course prepares students for rigorous coursework in middle school and beyond. Emphasis is placed on developing skills in time management, organization, academic reading and writing and
GNRL020
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Yearbook
ENGL001
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Agricultural Exploration and Orientation
0183
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
JMS Global: Science & Agriculture
CTEC018
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Introduction to Art
FNAR3100
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Collaborative Art
FNAR330
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Traditional Art I
FNAR168
Grade: 8
1 Semester
Traditional Art II
FNAR278
Grade: 8
oral communication. Students set goals and engage in critical thinking techniques and study strategies.
Prerequisite: Acceptance through application and interview process. Students enrolled in this course will be responsible for creating and producing the MS yearbook. Students will learn computer graphic layout skills, journalism, writing skills, photography skills, sales skills, and organizational skills. Photography experience is a plus.
Agricultural Education
This course is intended as an eighth-grade offering that focus-es on developing student awareness for the agricultural industry through the seven pathways. Content will include the role of food production and processing, careers, relationships in natural resources, agricultural safety and the strong science provided in the study of agriculture. Personal development, FFA, and SAEs will also be initiated.
Note: Eligible 8th students enrolled in the course will be able to participate in FFA activities, including contests and field trips to conferences and conventions (travel fees apply). FFA Chapter membership is also required for the course.
Prerequisite: Acceptance through application and interview process. Global is a year-long course in which students study the agriculture, science, history, and culture of a chosen country, followed by a spring tour of that country. Upon return from the tour, students will produce a documentary about their experiences.
Fee: FFA Chapter membership is required for the course, and travel fees will apply.
Fine Arts
ART
This class emphasizes elements of art and principles of design and their application through drawing, watercolor, and clay exploration. This class includes, but is not limited to, drawing, and use of different media in drawing, watercolor, clay, and other possible 3D projects.
Fee: $15 for materials
This art course focuses on creation of large-scale, installation-based works of art and is geared toward all levels. Students work in various media, including some unconventional and recycled materials to produce these pieces, and work is primarily completed in groups. Students will have a photographic portfolio at the end of the course rather than a physical portfolio. Art will focus on art-historical references, social engagement, and demonstrating the basic elements and principles of art on a large scale.
Fee: $15 for materials
Prerequisite: Introduction to Art in 7th grade.
This class extends the Introduction to Art curriculum and expands on students’ understanding and use of elements of art and principles of design in a variety of media, including an emphasis on applications through 3-dimensional art (3D) projects.
Fee: $15 for materials
Prerequisite: Student must also select Traditional Art I and have completed Introduction to Art in seventh grade.
This course covers more advanced techniques and media. Independent study will be a
1 Semester requirement of this course.
Fee: $15 for materials
Digital Art I
FNAR188
Grade: 8
1 semester
Digital Art II
FNAR298
Grade: 8
1 semester
JMS Global: Arts & Humanities
0330
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Drama I
FNAR310
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Drama II
FNAR320
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Introduction to Stagecraft 0449
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Performance Drama 0438
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Speech/Debate 0428
Prerequisite: Introduction to Art in 7th grade.
This semester-long course will apply the elements of art and principles of design to various digital art making techniques. The course will focus on still imagery created primarily with digital tools. The course will include, but is not limited to, photography and photo manipulation, graphic design, product and packaging design, and illustration. Students will also have weekly sketchbook assignments outside of class. Students will primarily work within the Adobe Creative suite.
Fee: $15 for materials
Prerequisite: Student must also select Digital Art I and have completed Introduction to Art in seventh grade.
This semester-long course will apply the elements of art and principles of design to various digital art making techniques. The course will focus on moving imagery created primarily with digital tools. The course will include, but is not limited to, video art/film production, soundscape production, video effects and greenscreen, motion graphics, animation (2D, stop-motion, 3D), and AR and VR development. Students will also have weekly sketchbook assignments outside of class. Students will primarily work within the Adobe Creative suite, Procreate, and Blender.
Fee: $15 for materials
Prerequisite: Acceptance through application & interview process. Global is a year-long course in which students study the history, art, culture, and customs of a chosen country, followed by a spring tour of that country. Upon return from the tour, students will produce a comparative cultural documentary about their experiences. Fee: Travel fees will apply.
DRAMA
Students engage in a variety of activities that build an overview of acting, the theatre, costumes, and props. They focus on improving their communication skills, both verbal and non-verbal, through individual and group performance of skits, scenes, pantomime, and improvisation.
Fee: $15 for materials
Prerequisite: Student must also select Drama I or have completed Drama I in 7th grade. Students continue their study of the concepts of theatre and acting, with more in-depth participation in performance opportunities. Improvisation, pantomime, script work, memorization, stage movement and theatre technology are emphasized.
Fee: $15 for materials
This course introduces students to the fundamentals of technical theatre and includes a brief history of theatrical stages and technology. Students learn the basic elements of scenic construction, design concepts, theatrical lighting, and sound technologies as well as stage management, which is assessed through practical application. The course begins with basic safety procedures and a lab contract.
Fee: $15 for materials
Prerequisite: Acceptance through audition process. By audition only! As the name states, you will be performing a play for students and the general public in this year-long course. We will work on specific skills for that play, explore characterization in depth, and look at the historical parameters of a particular play. There is a contract to sign; performance week attendance and participation is mandatory to the exclusion of other activities. Fee: $15 for materials
Students will participate in a variety of activities which will provide an overall view of public speaking, oral presentations, and group decisions. In addition, students will be introduced to the
Grade: 8
1 Semester
Band 0637
Grade: 7
2 Semesters
Band 0638
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Strings
0657
Grade: 7
2 Semesters
Strings
0658
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Vocal Music (Tenor/Bass)
FNAR047
Grade: 7
2 Semesters
Vocal Music (Alto/Soprano)
FNAR057
Grade: 7
2 Semesters
Vocal Music (Tenor/Bass)
FNAR048
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
fundamentals of debate and argumentation where they will learn to research for and organize a debate. Building self-esteem, increasing self-awareness, and learning to work in cooperative learning situations will be emphasized.
MUSIC
Band is available to any middle student completing one or two years of band instruction. This course focuses on the development of technical ability and engages students in various styles of band literature. The students have opportunities to represent Jenks Public Schools in various honor bands, solo and ensemble contests, and school performances. In most cases, the student will need to provide his/her own instrument.
Fee: A uniform will be required for performances at a reasonable cost to the student. Students who are provided a school instrument will be required to complete a form accepting responsibility for this instrument along with a $35 maintenance fee per semester.
Band is available to any middle student completing one or two years of band instruction. This course focuses on the development of technical ability and engages students in various styles of band literature. The students have opportunities to represent Jenks Public Schools in various honor bands, solo and ensemble contests, and school performances. In most cases, the student will need to provide his/her own instrument.
Fee: A uniform will be required for performances at a reasonable cost to the student. Students who are provided a school instrument will be required to complete a form accepting responsibility for this instrument along with a $35 maintenance fee per semester.
The Strings course is available to any student completing one or two years of string instruction. The courses focus on improvement through both method book study and music selected from standard orchestra literature which should challenge each student. Students have opportunities to represent Jenks Public Schools in honor orchestras, solo and ensemble contests, orchestra contests, and public concerts.
Fee: A uniform will be required for performances at a reasonable cost to the student. In most cases, students playing violin and viola are expected to provide their own instruments. Students who elect to play the cello or bass will be provided a school instrument. Parents and students will be required to complete a form accepting responsibility for this instrument along with a $35 maintenance fee per semester.
The Strings course is available to any student completing one or two years of string instruction. The courses focus on improvement through both method book study and music selected from standard orchestra literature which should challenge each student. Students have opportunities to represent Jenks Public Schools in honor orchestras, solo and ensemble contests, orchestra contests, and public concerts.
Fee: A uniform will be required for performances at a reasonable cost to the student. In most cases, students playing violin and viola are expected to provide their own instruments. Students who elect to play the cello or bass will be provided a school instrument. Parents and students will be required to complete a form accepting responsibility for this instrument along with a $35 maintenance fee per semester.
Vocal Music meets daily with students performing individually and in groups. Students also participate in school, district and area music concerts, contests, festivals, and have the opportunity to work in the piano lab on a regular basis. Participation in all performances is expected as part of the student’s grade.
Fee: An inexpensive uniform will be required for performances and a minimal contest fee will apply.
Vocal Music meets daily with students performing individually and in groups. Students also participate in school, district and area music concerts, contests, festivals, and have the opportunity to work in the piano lab on a regular basis. Participation in all performances is expected as part of the student’s grade.
Fee: An inexpensive uniform will be required for performances and a minimal contest fee will apply.
Vocal Music meets daily with students performing individually and in groups. Students also participate in school, district and area music concerts, contests, festivals, and have the opportunity to work in the piano lab on a regular basis. Students in 8th grade perform in a full scale musical. Participation in all performances is expected as part of the student’s grade.
Vocal Music (Alto/Soprano)
FNAR058
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Fee: An inexpensive uniform will be required for performances and a minimal contest fee will apply.
Vocal Music meets daily with students performing individually and in groups. Students also participate in school, district and area music concerts, contests, festivals, and have the opportunity to work in the piano lab on a regular basis. Students in 8th grade perform in a full scale musical. Participation in all performances is expected as part of the student’s grade. Fee: An inexpensive uniform will be required for performances and a minimal contest fee will apply.
Physical Education
Students are required to wear appropriate clothing for physical activity and participate every day in their physical education courses.
Physical Education (males)
PHED017
Grade: 7
2 Semesters
Physical Education (females)
PHED027
Grade: 7
2 Semesters
Physical Education (males) B717
Grade: 7
1 Semester
Physical Education (females) G717
Grade: 7
1 Semester
Physical Education (males)
B728
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Physical Education (females)
G728
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Physical Education is a comprehensive program, developing and educating the student physically, mentally, and socially through organized leisure activities. Students participate in a variety of activities while learning how to cooperate and follow the rules of games in diverse environments. Skill development and instruction in volleyball, softball, basketball, soccer, hockey, team handball, football, weight training, and other organized activities are offered, with emphasis on developing healthy lifestyles. In addition to physical activities, the students are provided with a health and wellness curriculum.
Physical Education is a comprehensive program, developing and educating the student physically, mentally, and socially through organized leisure activities. Students participate in a variety of activities while learning how to cooperate and follow the rules of games in diverse environments. Skill development and instruction in volleyball, softball, basketball, soccer, hockey, team handball, football, weight training, and other organized activities are offered, with emphasis on developing healthy lifestyles. In addition to physical activities, the students are provided with a health and wellness curriculum.
Physical Education is a comprehensive program, designed to develop and educate the student physically, mentally, and socially through organized leisure activities. Students will be given the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities while learning how to cooperate and follow the rules of games in a diverse environment. Skill development and instruction in volleyball, softball, basketball, soccer, hockey, team handball, football, weight training, and other organized activities may be offered, with emphasis on developing healthy lifestyles. In addition to physical activities, the students are provided with a health and wellness curriculum.
Physical Education is a comprehensive program, designed to develop and educate the student physically, mentally, and socially through organized leisure activities. Students will be given the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities while learning how to cooperate and follow the rules of games in a diverse environment. Skill development and instruction in volleyball, softball, basketball, soccer, hockey, team handball, football, weight training, and other organized activities may be offered, with emphasis on developing healthy lifestyles. In addition to physical activities, the students are provided with a health and wellness curriculum.
A comprehensive program, designed to develop and educate the student physically, mentally, and socially through organized leisure activities. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities while learning how to cooperate and follow the rules of games in a diverse environment. Skill development and instruction in volleyball, soft-ball, basketball, soccer, hockey, team handball, football, weight training, and other organized activities may be offered, with emphasis on developing healthy lifestyles. In addition to physical activities, the students are provided with a health and wellness curriculum consisting of topics such as alcohol, drugs, tobacco, the benefits of exercise, hygiene, decision-making and related topics to educate and increase the overall wellness of our students.
A comprehensive program, designed to develop and educate the student physically, mentally, and socially through organized leisure activities. Students will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities while learning how to cooperate and follow the rules of games in a diverse environment. Skill development and instruction in volleyball, soft-ball, basketball, soccer, hockey, team handball, football, weight training, and other organized activities may be offered, with emphasis
Physical Education (males) B718
Grade: 8
1 Semester
Physical Education (females) G718
Grade: 8
1 Semester
Health and Wellness
PHED330
Grades: 7, 8
1 semester
Health and Wellness II
PHED368
Grade: 8
1 semester
Biz Tech 0139
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Technology Exploration 0119
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
on developing healthy lifestyles. In addition to physical activities, the students are provided with a health and wellness curriculum consisting of topics such as alcohol, drugs, tobacco, the benefits of exercise, hygiene, decision-making and related topics to educate and increase the overall wellness of our students.
Physical Education is a comprehensive program, which is designed to develop and educate the student physically, mentally, and socially through organized leisure activities. The student will be given the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities while learning how to cooperate and follow the rules of games in a diverse environment. Skill development and instruction in volleyball, softball, basketball, soccer, hockey, team handball, football, weight training, and other organized activities may be offered, with emphasis on developing healthy lifestyles. In addition to physical activities, the students are provided with a health and wellness curriculum consisting of topics such as alcohol, drugs, tobacco, the benefits of exercise, hygiene, decision-making and related topics to educate and increase the overall wellness of our students
Physical Education is a comprehensive program, which is designed to develop and educate the student physically, mentally, and socially through organized leisure activities. The student will be given the opportunity to participate in a variety of activities while learning how to cooperate and follow the rules of games in a diverse environment. Skill development and instruction in volleyball, softball, basketball, soccer, hockey, team handball, football, weight training, and other organized activities may be offered, with emphasis on developing healthy lifestyles. In addition to physical activities, the students are provided with a health and wellness curriculum consisting of topics such as alcohol, drugs, tobacco, the benefits of exercise, hygiene, decision-making and related topics to educate and increase the overall wellness of our students.
Health
This course explores physical health, but also places an emphasis on mental, emotional, and social health. Students will learn the importance of achieving balance in these areas of health.
Prerequisite: Health and Wellness in 7th grade. This course will continue to support the mission of continuing to promote mental, social, and physical health for students and expand upon the depth of learning to include environmental health and careers in health.
Technology
Students will develop entrepreneurial skills and attributes through the use of business technology applications. Each student will create their own business idea and will use Google, Lucidpress, and other software programs to complete various projects related to their business concept. Students will gain hands-on experience and knowledge with Google docs, sheets, drawings, and several other webbased applications. Students will also learn some basic business terminology and skills in this class.
Embark on an exciting journey through the world of technology! In this hands-on class, students will explore a wide variety of topics in information technology, gaining practical skills and knowledge that are essential in today's digital world. From understanding the basics of Computer Hardware/Software to diving into a diverse range of topics like Networking, Cybersecurity, and Artificial Intelligence, students will discover how technology powers our everyday lives.This course also emphasizes creativity and problem-solving as students code websites using HTML/CSS, experiment with JavaScript programming, create Multimedia projects, including videos and animations, and even try 3D design with tools like TinkerCAD.
Introduction to Code 0159
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Technology Engineering Explorations
CTEC320
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Technology Engineering Explorations II
CTEC338
Grades: 8
1 Semester
Technology Student Interns
CTEC340
Grades: 7,8
1 semester
Introduction to Chinese 0257
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Chinese I
WLAN048
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Chinese II
WLAN057
Grade: 7
2 Semesters
Chinese III
WLAN068
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
This course explores the world of code. Students will use visual code blocks to quickly transform ideas into interactive animations, stories, apps, and even a few games. Students are motivated to learn programming as they engage in activities that allow them to use their creativity and skills. Guided lessons from scratch.mit.org, code.com, and tynker.com are a few of the programming resources that will be explored. Some coding programs and/or games will be self guided to encourage students to problem solve and the bulk of this course is focused on coding fundamentals.
Students completing this semester-long elective class will have the opportunity to explore Science, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) in an interactive, hands-on lab setting. Students will plan, document, and build collaborative projects in areas such as robotics, graphic design, CAD, video production, civil engineering, electronics, and video game design. Students will have the opportunity to render their designs using equipment such as 3D printers, Epilog laser cutters, and other CAD machines.
Fee: $15 for materials
Student must have completed Technology Engineering Explorations in 7th grade. This course continues Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math concepts and applications taught in the STEM I course. The course allows students to dive deeper into the areas of STEM they are passionate about with self designed STEM projects. Additionally, some students will have the opportunity to explore video broadcasting and editing. These students will help produce the JMS announcements.
Fee: $15 for materials
The Technology Student Internship class prepares students to interact with individuals, providing first-line technical support and resolving general device problems. Students are trained to assist school employees and students by troubleshooting hardware and software issues, supporting new technologies, and repairing devices in a hands-on class atmosphere. Students gain an understanding of how a service desk functions and the role of customer service in today's world of technology.
World Languages
CHINESE
This course facilitates entry-level learning in Chinese, focusing on conversational Chinese as well as integration of Chinese culture, history, music, arts, and contemporary issues. Reading and writing are introduced by way of Pin-Yin, the Chinese phonetic system; basic vocabulary and sentence structures are also studied.
This class allows eighth grade students to complete their first year of high school study. Chinese I is an introductory course with a focus on conversational Chinese, basic vocabulary, use of simple characters, and sentence structure. Pin-Yin is the main system used in the classroom. Vocabulary related to more complex contents will also be studied. Topics about contemporary China will be discussed, as well as discussions on Chinese history, culture, and arts.
Note: Students must earn a passing grade in both semesters to receive high school credit for foreign language
Chinese II continues learning from Chinese I with a greater emphasis on listening and speaking. Students are introduced to simplified Chinese characters and continue to use “PinYin” Chinese phonetic system in reading and writing. Students continue to explore Chinese culture and history.
Note: Available for students who completed Chinese I for high school credit in 6th Grade at East Intermediate.
Prerequisite: Is available to students who earn a passing grade in Chinese II. In this course, students review basic grammar from Chinese I and II and are introduced to characters and more advanced grammatical structures as well as Chinese idioms. Students explore Chinese culture through reading.
Introduction to French 0217
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
French I WLAN078
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Latin I WLAN088
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Introduction to Spanish 0237
Grades: 7, 8
1 Semester
Spanish I
WLAN098
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
Spanish II
WLAN0107
Grade: 7
2 Semesters
Spanish III
WLAN0118
Grade: 8
2 Semesters
FRENCH
This course introduces students to the French language & Francophone culture. Common communicative phrases and vocabulary will be emphasized, in addition to the cultural customs of the French-speaking countries.
This class is designed to allow 8th grade students to complete their first year of high school study. Students will communicate in French in more than one tense, engage in conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings, and express opinions. They will be able to understand and interpret written and spoken language on a variety of topics. Note: Students must earn a passing grade in both semesters to receive high school credit for foreign language.
LATIN
This class allows eighth grade students to complete their first year of high school study. Latin I emphasizes basic grammar, translation, vocabulary, word derivation, and Roman culture. Mythological studies include the Olympian gods, heroes, and people frequently portrayed in literature and art. Historical studies begin with the Trojan War and conclude with the Flavian emperors. Students must earn a passing grade in both semesters to receive high school credit for foreign language.
Note: Students must earn a passing grade in both semesters to receive high school credit for foreign language
SPANISH
This course introduces students to the Spanish language & Hispanic culture. Common communicative phrases and vocabulary will be emphasized, in addition to the cultural customs of the Spanish-speaking countries.
This class is designed to allow eighth grade students to complete their first year of high school study. Students will communicate in Spanish in more than one tense, engage in conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings, express opinions. They will be able to under-stand and interpret written and spoken language on a variety of topics.
Note: Students must earn a passing grade in both semesters to receive high school credit for foreign language.
This course focuses on deepening oral speaking and listening skills, reading comprehension, grammar knowledge, and composition skills as well as engaging students in studies of selected works of literature.
Note: Available for students who completed Spanish I for high school credit in 6th Grade at East Intermediate.
Prerequisite: Is available to students who earn a passing grade in Spanish II. In this course, students study the Spanish language within the context of history, literature, and current events in Hispanic culture. Students are introduced to more advanced grammatical structures and continue to refine the three basic modes of communication: presentational writing/speaking, interpersonal writing/speaking, and interpretive listening/reading. Students explore situational vocabulary to improve writing and speaking skills as well as read literary selections by various authors in the Spanish-speaking world.