Elective Courses

6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade – Full year

These courses have co-curricular activities, meaning students may be required to attend and/or participate in rehearsals and performances outside the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom. The Music Program is a yearlong commitment.

• BAND I, II, III
  Any student may enroll in band. No previous experience is necessary. Students will learn to read and play music as well as care for their instrument.  Band instruments include the flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, French horn, trumpet, trombone, tuba, and drums.
   
• CHORUS I, II, III
  Any student may enroll in chorus.  No previous singing experience is necessary.  The program emphasizes vocal technique and skills as well as an appreciation of music.  
   
• ORCHESTRA I, II, III
  Any student may enroll in orchestra.  No previous experience is necessary.  Students will learn to read and play music as well as care for their instrument. Orchestra instruments include the violin, viola, cello, or string bass. 

6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade – Semester

This course does not require students to learn to play an instrument or perform. Students explore the essential elements of 20th- and 21st-century music in America (e.g., jazz, rock, soul, blues) and global cultures (e.g., Latin, Bollywood, European, Asian, world drumming). Students reflect on the significance of social influences and historical events on the development of music. Participants focus on the creation, use, and performance of music; and the modes of listening, distributing, and gaining access to music. 

6th Grade priority, open to all students – Semester or full year

Students receive introductory instruction in computers, keyboarding, essential applications, and the Internet. Instruction and learning activities are provided in a laboratory setting using hands-on experiences with the equipment, materials, and technology appropriate to the course content and in accordance with current practices. 

7th Grade priority, open to all students,– Semester or full year

In Exploring 2-D Studio Art, students investigate a wide range of media and techniques from both a historical and contemporary perspective. During their experience in this class, students will engage in the art-making processes of creating two-dimensional works which may include drawing, painting, printmaking, and/or collage. In Exploring 3-D Studio Art, students learn to translate their two-dimensional skills into three-dimensional forms through natural, abstract, and synthetic sculptural forms using materials that may include, but not limited to, clay, plaster, and mixed media for creative expression. These courses incorporate hands-on activities and consumption of art materials.  

*8th grade seats in art are limited to those with a teacher recommendation

6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade – Semester

Studying design and modeling, students discover the design process and develop an understanding of the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives.  Then, studying automation and robotics, students learn about the history and impact of automation and robotics as they explore mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Using the VEX Robotics® platform, students apply what they know to design and program traffic lights, robotic arms, and more. 

6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade – Semester

This course offers students an authentic entrepreneurship experience.  In this program, students have the opportunity to create and develop their own entrepreneurial idea.  Student teams move through the processes of developing hypotheses about a business concept, testing those hypotheses, adapting, and continually learning and improving.  

8th Grade – Full Year

Students are introduced to the Spanish language and culture. Emphasis is placed on proficient communication in the language. An introduction to reading and writing is also included as well as culture, connections, comparisons, and communities.  This is a high school credit course and will affect high school GPA.

*Students must have a scored at least a 3 on F.A.S.T. PM3 in ELA

6th Grade, 7th Grade, 8th Grade – Semester or full year

The purpose of this course is to provide a foundation of knowledge, skills, and values necessary for the development of a physically active lifestyle. The course content provides exposure to a variety of movement opportunities and experiences which includes, but is not limited to: Fitness Activities, Educational Gymnastics and Dance, and Team Sports. The integration of fitness concepts throughout the content is critical to student success in this course and in the development of a healthy and physically active lifestyle.  

7th Grade, 8th Grade – Semester or full year

The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop awareness of self and others. Emphasis will be on acquisition of basic skills for thoughtful planning, peer facilitation, effective communication and making healthy choices. Peer mentors will work with ESE students in the modified curriculum unit.

*Peer mentoring requires guidance counselor recommendation