Middle School Course Description Guide

St. Pius X School Middle School Course Description Guide 2026-2027

5301 St. Joseph Dr. NW, Albuquerque, NM 87120 Phone: 505-831-8400 www.saintpiusx.com Fax: 505-831-8413 LAST UPDATED: February 3, 2026

Our Mission Saint Pius X School serves God in communion with the Roman Catholic Church by fostering moral, social, and intellectual growth within a college preparatory setting to teach young people to be ethical leaders in service to others.

ACADEMIC INFORMATION ACADEMIC REQUIREMENTS All middle school students are enrolled in six academic courses and a daily lunch period. The standard schedule includes English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Theology, and one elective course.

The middle school schedule also includes X Hour, a fixed period scheduled during the final block of each school day. X Hour provides structured time for electives, enrichment, academic support, and co-curricular activities.

Middle school students who are participating in an in-season St. Pius X sport may be scheduled for practices or games during X Hour, as appropriate.

Placement in specialized or leveled course sections is determined by the Middle School Administration.

Note: Elective courses will only be offered if minimum enrollment guidelines are met. The master schedule is based on student request and available teacher staffing. To ensure course availability, course selection forms must be completed on time.

6th Grade Core Course Curriculum English Language Arts 6 Math 6 Religion 6 Social Studies- Ancient Civilizations 6 Science 6- Foundations of STEM Elective X Hour Elective Course Offerings: Electives will be scheduled according to student enrollment. ●​ Art (semester course) ●​ Beginning Band (full year course) ●​ Beginning Orchestra (full year course) ●​ Beginning Choir (full year course) ●​ Dance (semester course) ●​ Drama (semester course) ●​ MS Intro to ASL (semester course) ●​ MS Intro to Spanish (semester course) ●​ PE (semester course)

7th Grade Core Course Curriculum English Language Arts 7 Math 7 Religion 7 Science 7- Foundations of Life Science Social Studies (one semester of New Mexico History, one semester of U.S. History) Elective X Hour Elective Course Offerings: Electives will be scheduled according to student enrollment. ●​ Art (semester course) ●​ Beginning Band (full year course) ●​ Beginning Orchestra (full year course) ●​ Beginning Choir (full year course) ●​ Culinary Arts (semester course) enrollment is limited to class availability ●​ Dance (semester course) ●​ Drama (semester course) ●​ MS Intro to ASL (semester course) ●​ MS Intro to Spanish (semester course) ●​ PE (semester course) ●​ Yearbook (full year course)

8th Grade Course Curriculum Course sections in English, Mathematics, and World Languages are available to meet the needs of various student abilities. Assignment to special course sections will be made by the middle school counselor and department personnel with final approval given by the administration.

English 8 Math 8 or higher Science 8- Advanced STEM U.S. History 8 Religion 8 Elective X Hour Elective Course Offerings: Electives will be scheduled according to student enrollment. Students may choose either a full year course or two semester courses. ●​ Beginning Band (full year course) ●​ Beginning Orchestra (full year course) ●​ Beginning Choir (full year course) ●​ Culinary Arts (semester) enrollment is limited to class availability ●​ Dance (semester) ●​ Drama (semester) ●​ High School Language Course (full year course): Choose from ASL I, French I, Spanish I ●​ MS Art (semester) ●​ MS Intro to ASL (semester course)

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MS Intro to Spanish (semester) MS PE (semester or full year course) Studio Art 8 (year) Yearbook (full year course)

CREDITS AND GRADES All grades are recorded in letters. The 4-point grade system is used at St. Pius X School.

Grade Scale Points 98-100 A+ ​ 4.333 ​ ​

​

94-97 A ​

4.0​

​

​

90-93 A- ​

3.667 ​ ​

​

87-89 B+ ​

3.333 ​ ​

​

83-86 B ​

3.0 ​

​

​

80-82 B- ​

2.667 ​ ​

​

77-79 C+ ​

2.333

73-76 ​

C ​

2.0

70-72 ​

C- ​

1.667

67-69 ​

D+ ​

1.333

63-66 ​

D​

1.0

60-62 ​

D- ​

0.667

0-59 ​ F ​

0 NO CREDIT for F

Honors courses at St. Pius X are on the 5-point grade system. A = 5, B = 4, C = 3, D = 2, F = 0 and no credit.

If a student fails a core course for the semester (English, Math, Religion, Science, Social Studies), the student will be required to make-up the credit in an SPX summer school program. The semester failing grade remains on the transcript even though the student makes up the credit in summer school. Both grades are calculated in the Grade Point Average (GPA). If a student passes a course at St. Pius and wishes to retake the course in summer school, both grades remain on the transcript and are averaged together when calculated in the student’s GPA.

COURSE CANCELLATION POLICY The school retains the right to cancel a course offering after registration if: A.​ The course enrollment is too small to justify it financially.

B.​ A staff member is not available to teach the course.

C.​ Physical facilities are not available for the class.

POLICY FOR CHANGING COURSES AFTER REGISTRATION Student advisement for registration at St. Pius X School is a two-month process. Before students select and register for their courses for the following school year, they are required to get input from their counselor, current teachers, and parents. The purpose of this process is to ensure that the students meet their academic goals. The selections that the students make determine both class size and teacher assignments for the following school year. To ensure that class sizes remain stable for the school year, the school administration has developed the following procedure for course changes.

Students may request a change in their course selections if the request is submitted by the last day of school deadline (last final exam day) of the year preceding the school year for which the change is being sought. To request this, change students must: 1. Pick up a Request to Change a Course Form from the middle school counselor.

2. Obtain all needed signatures (counselor, parent, and student).

3. Submit the Request to Change a Course Form to the Assistant Head of Middle School by the deadline.

4. Changes will be considered based on availability—not all course change requests will be granted.

After the deadline, the only course selection changes that will be granted will be changes due to the following reasons: 1. Course cancellation 2. Schedule conflict 3. Student has an incomplete schedule 4. Courses are not in correct sequence 5. Student lacks a course required for promotion 6. Student does not meet the prerequisite for the class 7. Student is misplaced in the class due to inappropriate skill level Course changes will not be granted for any of the following reasons: 1. Concern that the grade will bring down the student’s GPA 2. Preference for a different teacher 3. Preference for a different meeting time 4. Change of mind about taking the course Administrative Course Changes - After the school year begins, discretionary schedule changes may be made when the administration deems it necessary to make these changes.

REPORT CARDS The first quarter report card will be emailed to parents or guardians after the completion of a quarter/semester.

After receiving the report card, parents will have the opportunity to meet briefly with the student’s teachers in the fall during Parent-Teacher Conferences. All other report cards will be emailed or mailed when all financial and other obligations have been settled with the school.

TRANSCRIPTS Transcripts of grades are provided free to all students who request it if their bills and fees are paid.

ACADEMIC ELIGIBILITY To be eligible for participation/performance in sports (both in season and pre/postseason) and extracurricular and co-curricular activities (including, but not limited to, visual/performing arts productions, YAG, Fatih Challenge Bowl, etc.) sponsored by St. Pius X, a student must abide by scholastic requirements as defined by St. Pius X School.

Any student who has an established Accommodation Plan at St. Pius X will be individually evaluated for eligibility. However, if a student fails one or more classes for the quarter or the semester, the student will be ineligible to participate based on the guidelines for Academic Eligibility.

1st Quarter and 3rd Quarter Grades To be eligible to participate in sports, extra-curricular and co-curricular activities for the following quarter, a student must have: • no incomplete grades for the 1st or 3rd quarter • no F’s for the 1st or 3rd quarter, and • a GPA of 2.0 or better for the 1st or 3rd quarter.

A student who does not meet these requirements will remain ineligible until the end of the applicable semester.

The eligibility of students who have one or more incomplete grades is determined after all coursework is completed (all incompletes must be cleared within 2 weeks after the end of the grading period).

End of 1st Semester Grades** To be eligible to participate in sports, extra-curricular and co-curricular activities for the entire third quarter**, a student must have: • no incomplete grades for the 1st semester • no F’s for the 1st semester, and • a GPA of 2.0 or better for the 1st semester.

A student who does not meet these requirements will remain ineligible until the end of the third quarter, at which time the student’s eligibility will be re-evaluated. The eligibility of students who have one or more incomplete grades for the 1st semester will be determined after all coursework is completed (all incompletes must be cleared within 2 weeks after the end of the grading period). **Any student who meets the requirements for eligibility for the 1st semester, but who has earned one F for the 2nd quarter, will be ineligible for ten school days. At the end of the ten-day period, the MS Administration will ascertain if the student has improved his/her work to a satisfactory level. If not, a final check will be made 5 school days later to determine eligibility. Any student who earns more than one F for the 2nd quarter, has no 1st semester failures, and whose 1st semester GPA is above a 2.0, will be ineligible for the entire third quarter.

End of 2nd Semester grades To be eligible to participate in sports (including summer workouts) and extracurricular activities, for the first quarter of the next school year, a student must have: • no incomplete grades for the 2nd semester • no F’s for the 2nd semester, and • a GPA of 2.0 or better for the 2nd semester.

A student who does not meet these requirements will remain ineligible until the end of the first quarter of the

next school year, at which time the student’s eligibility will be re-evaluated. The eligibility of students who have one or more incomplete grades for the 2nd semester will be determined after all coursework is completed (all incompletes must be cleared within 2 weeks after the end of the grading period).

Any student who earns one F for the 4th quarter, has no 2nd-semester failures, and whose 2nd semester GPA is above 2.0, will not be allowed to participate in any summer team activities, but will be allowed to try out for and participate in fall sports or extra-curricular or co-curricular activities starting on August 1st. Any student who has completed all 2nd semester coursework, and who has earned a 2nd semester GPA of 2.0 or better but has failed only one class for the 2nd semester may become eligible on August 1st, if that student has successfully completed a credit recovery class at St. Pius for the 2nd semester failure. If a credit recovery class is not available at St. Pius, the student must get the approval of the MS Administration to complete the credit recovery course through an approved program. When the credit recovery grade is received and entered into the student’s academic record, the 2nd semester GPA must remain above a 2.0 for the student to be eligible to participate on August 1st.

Grades earned in summer school may not be used to boost GPA to become eligible for the fall semester.

ACADEMIC HONORS First and Second Honors are awarded at the end of each school year to students who excel in their academic work. Students finishing the semester with at least a 3.3 GPA merit Second Honors; those with at least a 3.7 GPA merit First Honors.

NOTE: ADDITIONS, MODIFICATIONS AND DELETIONS MAY BE MADE TO THIS DOCUMENT AT ANY TIME AS DEEMED APPROPRIATE BY THE ST. PIUS X SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS ENGLISH ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS 6 The curriculum will implement Next Generation English Language Arts Standards. Students will learn to connect key skills in language arts, that include: comprehension, analysis, and summarization of works from different genres (plays, poems, and news articles); applying understanding of grammar, vocabulary, and spelling skills in different types of writing; writing a complete paragraph with topic sentences and supporting details to support claims; and conducting research with supporting details through different sources (books, websites, articles) and summarizing findings.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS 7 The curriculum will implement Next Generation English Language Arts Standards. Students will learn to determine a theme and analyze its development; evaluate the development of an argument and specific claims in text; write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas; conduct research to answer questions and assess credibility and accuracy of sources; use punctuation to clarify and enhance writing; recognize and apply grade appropriate vocabulary; read with fluency with a focus on plot, character development, figurative and connotative language; write informative/explanatory texts to examine a topic and convey ideas, concepts and write in-depth research papers with citations and quotes from multiple sources.

ENGLISH 8- LANGUAGE & LITERATURE This combined literature and language course is designed to introduce students to the English language as an experience involving reading, writing, speaking, and listening in order to develop effective communicators and thinkers. Students are introduced to various writing structures, such as the five-paragraph critique and written narrative. Vocabulary and grammar are fundamental experiences.

Reading for comprehension involves short stories, poetry, drama, and novels. A speech component is an essential part of the whole language experience. Students must compose a research paper section of this course.

HONORS ENGLISH 8- LANGUAGE & LITERATURE This advanced, combined literature and language course is designed to introduce students to the English language as an experience involving analytical reading, critical thought, articulate writing and speaking, and astute listening in order to develop effective communicators and thinkers. Students are introduced to various writing structures, such as the five-paragraph critique and written narrative.. Vocabulary and grammar are fundamental experiences. Reading for analysis involves short stories, poetry, drama, and novels. A speech component is an essential part of the whole language experience.

Students must compose a literary research paper section of this course.

Prerequisite: Entrance to this class is determined by qualifying placement entrance exam scores, former teacher recommendations, and grades. In addition, a letter of application and review of a writing sample must be submitted prior to acceptance.

FAMILY STUDIES DEPARTMENT CULINARY ARTS (Semester) This course will enable students to develop various skills in food preparation and presentation. There will be the opportunity for weekly labs, enabling the students to learn and demonstrate cooking skills (and eat the food they prepare), increase their knowledge of a variety of foods, and become self-sufficient in the kitchen. The curriculum includes nutrition, regional and international foods, the artistic presentation of foods, table settings and meal planning, purchasing food, sanitation, and safety.

This class is open to 7th and 8th grade students. Enrollment is limited to class availability.

A course fee of $50 is required.

FINE ARTS MS ART (Semester) MS Art class is geared toward the student who has a variety of interests in art media. This class is aimed toward the student who would like to gain exposure and practice techniques of a wider range of art media. Through Art, students will make connections to history, culture, math, theology, literature and sciences in addition to studying the work of other artists. Students are encouraged to connect their faith in their artworks.

They will learn to think about and discuss art through learning art vocabulary such as the Elements of Art and Principles of Design and will learn how to create using these concepts in their work as well as to discuss and critique art using this vocabulary. This class focuses on teaching artistic behaviors and maintaining a sketchbook to record the various stages of the creative process. 2-D artforms may include drawing, painting and design. And will use a variety of media including pencil, charcoal, colored pencil, cyanotype, watercolor, pastels, printmaking etc. 3-D artforms may include various fiber works, sculpture and ceramics. This class may be repeated, but limited to one time per school year.

Prerequisite: None; a semester-long elective course open to all middle school students.

STUDIO ART 8 (full year) Studio Art class is geared toward the student who has an interest in art and would like to learn more about and explore basic art techniques and a variety of media at length. Through Art, students will make connections to history, culture, math, theology, literature and sciences in addition to studying the work of other artists. Students are encouraged to connect their faith in their artworks. They will learn to think about and discuss art through learning art vocabulary such as the Elements of Art and Principles of Design and will learn how to create using these concepts in their work as well as to discuss and critique art using this vocabulary. This class focuses on teaching artistic behaviors and maintaining a sketchbook to record the various stages of the creative process. 2-D artforms may include drawing, painting and design. And will use a variety of media including pencil, charcoal, colored pencil, cyanotype, watercolor, pastels, printmaking etc. 3-D artforms may include various fiber works, sculpture and ceramics.

Prerequisite: None; a semester-long elective course open to all middle school students.

YEARBOOK (full year) This course is offered for students interested in producing the school yearbook.

Students will receive training in all facets of yearbook production: theme, story, headline, caption writing, interviewing, layout, editing, photography, learning and creating the digital platform of the yearbook, and finallypublishing the yearbook. Basic computer skills are necessary. The workload of students consists of attending various and assigned Pius events for picture taking both in school and outside school time. Class time consists of

editing and design of the yearbook. This is a graded course because of the workload and meeting deadline submissions.

Prerequisite: None; a year-long elective course open to all 7th and 8th grade students.

CHORAL MUSIC BEGINNING CHOIR (Year) This course is designed for students with little or no choral experience who wish to learn the basics. An emphasis is placed on the development of sight-singing, vocal techniques, performing and general musical knowledge. This ensemble will perform music at all concerts and in conjunction with the Bel Canto Concert Choir. The student will be required to participate in all school-sponsored performances, workshops and clinics, and all special events.

Prerequisite: None; a year-long elective course open to all middle school students.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC BEGINNING BAND (Year) Beginning Band is designed to provide students with an introductory experience on the 6 basic band instruments. Students will get an opportunity to try each instrument before selecting their choice for the year. They may choose from Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone/Baritone, or Percussion. Emphasis is placed on proper instrument care & technique, music reading, rhythmic accuracy, and ensemble performance. Prior instrumental music experience is not required. Students with prior musical experience on a different instrument who wish to explore a new instrument are encouraged to take this class.

Prerequisite: None; a year-long elective course open to all middle school students.

SYMPHONIC BAND (Year) - Symphonic Band is an intermediate wind and percussion ensemble designed for students who have completed Beginning Band or demonstrate equivalent experience. Continued development of tone production, technique, music literacy, and ensemble skills is emphasized. Students will perform a variety of concert band literature and are expected to demonstrate consistent rehearsal preparation and responsible ensemble participation. Students are required to attend all performances, rehearsals, workshops, and school events scheduled for Symphonic Band. All performances and rehearsals are graded activities. Students may be responsible for purchasing the required ensemble attire. Students who choose to participate in district or state band events (Solo and Ensemble, Honor Band, NMMEA All State) are responsible for all associated costs.

Prerequisite: Beginning Band with a B or better, placement by audition, or instructor approval. This is a year-long elective course and may be repeated. This course is open to middle school and high school students.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school Fine Arts credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA. SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA (Year) - This is the string ensemble for experienced or advanced players. The highest level of performance is expected. Instrumentation is limited to strings only. Students should take private lessons outside the school concurrent with this course for further technique development.

Music theory, history and international music will be introduced. Students are required to attend all

performances, workshops and clinics, competitions, festivals, as well as all on-campus or off campus school events scheduled for Symphonic Orchestra. All performances, rehearsals and events are graded activities. Students may be responsible for purchasing the required ensemble attire. Students who choose to participate in district or state orchestra events (Solo and Ensemble, Orchestra, NMMEA All State) are responsible for all associated costs.

Prerequisite: This is a year long class and may be repeated. This course is open to all high school students.

Middle school students by audition and/or instructor approval.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school Fine Arts credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA. PERFORMING ARTS DANCE I (Semester) - Dance I offers students the opportunity to explore the fundamentals of dance. This course is an introductory class that will include technique and basic skills in various styles including, but not limited to, ballet, jazz, and tap. Students will study dance history, terminology, dance kinesiology, and movement analysis at the introductory level. Kinesiology labs investigate the body as it moves and ties into injury prevention. Required attire will include ballet shoes, jazz shoes and tap shoes, and clothing that allows free movement. NO EXPERIENCE NECESSARY. Prerequisite: None; a semester-long elective survey course open to all students of all levels. This course may be repeated with teacher approval. Students with prior dance experience should meet with the instructor regarding class level placement.

DANCE II (Semester)- A continuation of Dance I, this course is designed for students who wish to continue their study of dance. The course will include learning various styles of dance including, but not limited to, ballet, jazz, contemporary, salsa, musical theater and tap with an introduction to choreography. During the year there will be performance opportunities. Required attire will include ballet shoes, jazz shoes, tap shoes and clothing that allows free movement. Costumes are provided for performances.

Prerequisite: Dance I or audition. A semester-long elective course open to all students. This course may be repeated with teacher approval.

MS DRAMA I (Semester) The course is an introduction to acting and the theater. The student will learn the elements of stage acting, both individually and in small groups as well as understanding the basics of the theater space. Emphasis will be placed on dramatic elements, vocal work, improvisation, physical movement. Students will study dramatic literature, monologues and scene work. This class is designed as a foundational course for further study in theater.

Prerequisite: None; a semester-long elective course open to all middle school students.

MS DRAMA II (Semester) The course is a further study into acting and theater. Students who have demonstrated proficiency and growth over the course of Drama I will continue their studies with deeper acting techniques and complex vocal work. In addition to building on the tools introduced earlier, students will also read and work with challenging high school level plays and scripts. Students will focus on collaborating with and directing their peers for various staged projects in the class.

Prerequisite: MS Drama I with a grade C or higher.

MATHEMATICS Course sections in Mathematics are available to meet the needs of students with various student abilities.

Assignment to special course sections will be made by department personnel with final approval given by the Middle School Administration.

MATH 6 The curriculum will implement Next Generation Math Standards for 6th grade. Students will receive instruction in five areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of number to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers; (3) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; (4) deepening understanding of area, surface area and volume; and (5) developing understanding of simple probabilities and statistical thinking. Student use of calculators is determined by learning objectives.

MATH 7 The curriculum will implement Next Generation Math Standards for 7th grade. Students will receive instruction in three areas: (1) developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships; (2) developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations; and (3) drawing inferences about populations based on samples. Student use of calculators is determined by learning objectives.

MATH 8 In this course, students will learn the concepts of computation and understand the properties of real numbers. Students will become comfortable with using letters and symbols to translate problems into algebraic form. In addition, they will learn how to solve and graph linear equations and inequalities. Students will become comfortable with the slope of a line and how it represents the rate of change of the two variables. Students will also learn about two- and three-dimensional shapes and their properties. Within this, students will calculate perimeter, area, circumference, surface area and volume of these shapes. Additionally, students will understand the Pythagorean Theorem and be able to explain why it is true. The students will also apply concepts of probability in a variety of ways. Student use of calculators is determined by learning objectives.

ALGEBRA I (HS) Students are introduced to the basic structure of algebra through the use and application of real numbers, polynomials, factoring, linear and quadratic equations and their graphs, inequalities and rational and irrational numbers. This course will provide opportunities for students to build their thinking and problem-solving skills. Required for HS graduation. Calculators are not allowed.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school Math credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA. HONORS ALGEBRA & GEOMETRY (HS) This course is designed for freshmen students with higher ability in mathematics. It is fast-paced, as students are expected to learn and apply skills more quickly than students in Algebra I. The fall semester covers all material of regular algebra (first and second-degree equations, lines, inequalities, radicals, polynomials, and word problems) as well as some Algebra II topics, including complex numbers and synthetic division. The Spring semester is comparable to a full course in geometry. Topics include parallelism, triangle theorems, formal proofs, similarity, circle properties, quadrilaterals, area of two-dimensional figures, and surface areas and volume of three-dimensional figures.

No withdrawals will be allowed after week 7 of school.

Prerequisite: Having taken a previous course in algebra is not a requirement. Entrance to this class is

determined by qualifying STAR scores, grades, and teacher recommendations.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school Math credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA. GEOMETRY (HS) This course is designed to help the student understand the basic structure of plane, solid, and coordinate geometry. Students will develop problem-solving skills and powers of visualization. They will also build their knowledge of the relationship among geometric elements and will increase their understanding of the inductive and deductive methods of reasoning. Students are required to have the following items on the first day of class; a compass, a protractor, and a scientific calculator.

Prerequisite: Algebra I. Required for HS graduation.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school Math credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA. HONORS GEOMETRY (HS) - This course is designed for students who can move at a faster pace in understanding the basic structure of plane, solid, and coordinate geometry. Students will develop problem solving skills and powers of visualization. They will also build their knowledge of the relationship among geometric elements and they will increase their understanding of the inductive and deductive methods of reasoning. Students are required to have the following items on the first day of class; compass, protractor, and a scientific calculator.

Prerequisite: B+ for both semesters in Algebra I or Departmental Approval.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school Math credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT MS PHYSICAL EDUCATION (Semester) This course will include both physical and health education concepts and applications. It is designed to provide students with the skills, knowledge, and attitudes essential for achieving a balanced and healthy lifestyle. Students will engage in routine physical exercise designed to improve their overall base level of physical fitness.

Note: Students are required to wear lace-up athletic shoes for each class.

Prerequisite: None; a semester-long elective course open to all middle school students. This course may be repeated.

SCIENCE SCIENCE 6: FOUNDATIONS OF STEM In sixth grade, students engage in an integrated STEM course that introduces core concepts in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics through hands-on, project-based learning. Aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards, the course emphasizes the engineering design process as students identify problems, design solutions, build and test prototypes, analyze data, and refine their work. Students apply critical thinking and creativity to real-world challenges while

developing foundational skills in scientific inquiry, collaboration, and quantitative reasoning. Instruction highlights ethical responsibility and responsible stewardship in the use of science and technology, preparing students for continued exploration across the STEM disciplines.

SCIENCE 7: FOUNDATIONS OF LIFE SCIENCE In 7th grade, students study living systems and their interactions in alignment with the Next Generation Science Standards. Students explore topics such as cell structure and function, growth and reproduction, energy and matter in ecosystems, interdependent relationships among organisms, and adaptation over time. Through inquiry-based investigations, hands-on laboratory experiences, data analysis, and scientific modeling, students develop scientific reasoning and problem-solving skills to support students in developing usable knowledge across the science disciplines.

SCIENCE 8: ADVANCED STEM This course allows 8th grade students to experience rigorous, hands-on exploration of multiple scientific disciplines including advanced life science systems, physics principles, engineering design and systems thinking, robotics and automation, artificial intelligence and digital technologies, and environmental sustainability. These units emphasize inquiry, experimentation, and innovation while reinforcing the integration of STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) concepts. Instruction is grounded in helping students recognize patterns and connections across scientific fields while developing deeper conceptual understanding.

SOAR (STUDENT OPTIONS AND ACADEMIC RESOURCES) SOAR Elective - In this course middle school students can develop the necessary strategies to become more independent learners, improve academic performance, and build confidence in their ability to succeed in school.

Students set personal goals such as improving time management, organization, active reading strategies, note-taking, test preparation, self-monitoring and self-regulation, collaboration, and communication. Students who have undergone educational diagnostic evaluations and who have accommodations plans are recommended to enroll in SOAR in lieu of an elective. For the SOAR program, evaluation paperwork and current accommodation plans must be provided to the SOAR Department and Middle School administration. Final placement in SOAR is determined by the SOAR Department and Middle School administration.

SOCIAL STUDIES ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS 6 The curriculum will implement Next Generation Social Studies Standards.

Students will explore patterns of change in continuity by focusing on the expansion of and the decline of civilizations, patterns of geography, and development of political, economic, and societal systems in the Eastern hemisphere. They will compare and contrast ancient civilizations, the Mediterranean World, feudal Western Europe, the Byzantine Empire, and the Islamic caliphate as they analyze and evaluate how foundations of society influence the modern era.

NM HISTORY 7 (semester) This course explores New Mexico’s history from its acquisition by the United States to the present. This includes an examination of our state’s contributions to and involvement in the major political, cultural, and economic events in the 20th century including WWI, the Great Depression, WWII, the Cold War, and the Civil Rights Movement. Students will be required to use critical thinking skills in both class discussions and creative projects along with individual “explorations” of New Mexico.

U.S. HISTORY 7 (semester) In this course, students will make connections across time as well as understand economic, social and political trends as they examine the history of the United States. Students will determine the influence of geographic factors and natural resources on the development of Native American and colonial societies and cultures, the movement for independence, westward expansion, reform movements, and the growth of sectionalism through the Civil War. The historical development of the U.S. Constitution, our foundational documents and the institutions of our government will be a focus.

U.S. HISTORY 8 In this course, students encounter and discuss the history of our nation. Students will engage with this story through mastering skills such as note-taking, primary source analysis, group discussion, and project learning. Students will gain a mastery of the country’s physical and political geography and the relevant teachings of our Catholic faith on social and political life as they examine major historical eras and events in U.S. History: reconstruction; industrialization, urbanization; and labor conditions; Progressive Movement; expansion and imperialism; World War I and the Roaring Twenties; Great Depression; World War II; Cold War and foreign policy; population movements; and Civil Rights and the Great Society.

THEOLOGY RELIGION 6 Salvation History and God’s Revelation This course introduces students to God’s self-revelation through Sacred Scripture and Church Tradition, with an emphasis on salvation history. Students examine the covenant relationship between God and His people as presented in the Hebrew Scriptures and fulfilled in the life and teachings of Jesus Christ. By the end of sixth grade, students will understand how God reveals Himself through Scripture and Tradition, recognize their role within the family, the Church, and the broader Christian community, and continue to develop a personal prayer life, particularly through prayer rooted in Scripture.

RELIGION 7 The Life of Christ & Christian Discipleship This course focuses on the person and message of Jesus Christ and what it means to live as His disciple in today’s world. Students engage deeply with the Gospels to understand Jesus’ teachings, His ministry, and His call to conversion, service, and love of neighbor. By the end of seventh grade, students will recognize Christ’s presence in the Church and the world, identify visible signs of God’s grace in their lives, and broaden their understanding of social justice and stewardship. Through reflection on Sacred Scripture and Catholic teaching, students continue to deepen their relationship with God and their responsibility to live out their faith in action.

RELIGION 8 The Church, Morality & Faith in Action This course centers on the nature, history, and mission of the Catholic Church. Students study the foundations

of the Church through an examination of the early Church, including the first centuries of Christianity, key Church leaders, saints, and significant historical events that shaped the faith. Building upon their knowledge of Scripture and the Gospels, students develop a deeper understanding of the Church’s structure and teachings. An introduction to Catholic morality and ethical decision-making is woven throughout the course, guiding students to apply Gospel values to real-life situations as they prepare to live their faith with greater independence and responsibility.

MIDDLE SCHOOL CHRISTIAN LEADERSHIP This course is designed to help students explore leadership principles, participate in service projects, plan student-centered events, and lead by example in our school environment. Students will engage in discussions, mentorship, and community outreach. In addition, students will learn about leadership styles, famous leaders, and what makes an effective and ethical leader through the lens of the Roman Catholic Church. Students are expected to attend assigned and chosen Pius events during the day’s schedule, after school, in the evening, and possibly on weekends. Activities and events include, but are not limited to: dances, pep rallies, movie nights, holiday planning, service projects, and class representation for student needs. This course fulfills a Religion requirement. This is a graded course because of the ethical leadership expectations, demand on time in planning and executing events, and implementing leadership skills: organizing, preparing, executing, leading, and self-reflecting.

Prerequisite: Open to 7th and 8th grade, students must complete an application and interview process to be considered for this course.

WORLD LANGUAGES Course sections in this department are available to meet the needs of various student abilities. Assignment to special course sections will be made by the middle school counselor and department personnel with final approval given by the Middle School Administration.

MS ASL (semester) - The middle school ASL course will introduce students to the fundamentals of American Sign Language (ASL), focusing on basic vocabulary, grammar, and cultural aspects of the Deaf community, allowing students to develop foundational communication skills through hands-on practice while learning about the unique characteristics of ASL and the Deaf culture, including greetings, basic conversation topics, fingerspelling, and essential facial expressions, all in a supportive and interactive environment.

Prerequisite: None - An elective course open to all middle school students.

ASL I (HS) This is an introductory course to basic skills in American Sign Language. This course is designed to provide students with a strong foundation of the ASL language through the development of grammatical structures and conversational skills, and expand their vocabulary with an emphasis on the correct usage of non-manual markers and Classifiers. Through the study of the language and many aspects of Deaf culture, students will be expected to strengthen their conversational & receptive skills, deepen their understanding and awareness of the Deaf people and culture, rediscover their own language and culture, and encourage the growth of culturally sensitive, globally aware, responsible world citizens. Topics will be focused on situations which students are likely to encounter in their daily lives. Mastering the manual alphabet, numbers and level one signs are also mandatory upon successful course completion. This course is taught primarily in American Sign Language and spoken English.

Prerequisite: None - A high school elective course open to all 8th grade students.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school World Languages credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA. FRENCH I (HS) This is an introductory course to basic skills in French vocabulary and grammar. Four communication skills are developed: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Culture is weaved into each lesson via videos, French artifacts, literature, slides, and skits so students can learn to communicate effectively with French speakers across the globe, learn about their own culture, and become more sensitive to cultural differences. Requirements: daily review of material studied, memorization of vocabulary and grammar, weekly activities in the workbook.

Prerequisite: None - A high school elective course open to all 8th grade students.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school World Languages credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA. MS SPANISH (semester) This course is a semester course that focuses on developing a working vocabulary as well as the ability to produce meaningful communication by developing the language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Through thematic-based vocabulary and grammatical structure, students will become familiar with the various aspects of Spanish-speaking countries and their culture.

Prerequisite: None - An elective course open to all middle school students. This course cannot be repeated.

SPANISH I (HS) In this course students study the basics of Spanish grammar, including the present, imperfect, and preterit tenses. Four communication skills are developed: speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students will be exposed to the similarities and differences in the culture of the people who speak the Spanish language.

Prerequisite: None - A high school elective course open to all 8th grade students.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school World Languages credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA. HONORS SPANISH I (HS) Honors Spanish I is an accelerated Spanish I course covering all the basic concepts and cultural items taught in Spanish I regularly. This course is designed to meet the needs of students who have mastered some of the more basic concepts of regular level 1 but are not proficient enough to function in a level II Spanish course. The primary language of instruction will be the target language. Spanish is used extensively for communication in the classroom. In addition, students will be responsible for a major project each semester.

Prerequisite: None - A high school elective course open to select 8th grade students. Pre-evaluation given prior to registration, teacher recommendation or interview with the department.

Upon successful completion, students will earn one high school World Languages credit for this course. This credit will be recorded on the student’s official high school transcript and will count toward the student’s cumulative high school GPA.

X HOUR STUDY HALL

X HOUR STUDY HALL - X Hour is a fixed period that will be scheduled during the last period of every school day. The middle school students will attend study hall during X Hour. Middle school athletes who are participating in an in-season SPX sport may attend practices/games for that sport as scheduled.