Course Description Booklet - AAJHS 8th Grade
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AAJHS 8 Grade
th
Course Description
Booklet
Quality Policy We will educate our students to attain skills to reach their full potential by providing superior service, constant innovation, and active participation. Vision Statement We will continuously improve the AASD so that all are an integral part of our learning community. We strive to cultivate a safe environment where all learn and grow through positive and respectful interactions. Mission Statement We seek to continuously improve the climate, culture, and student achievement within a safe environment by fostering trust, collaboration, and progressive communication. Motto Aspire Achieve Succeed Dream
REPORT CARD GRADE REPORTING
93 - 100 Excellent
86 - 92 Above Average
77 - 85 Average
70 - 76 Below Average
0- 69 Failing
HONOR ROLL
Students who obtain a GPA of 90 percent or greater in any marking period are
listed as honor roll students for that marking period. A report card message will
print, "Congratulations, you have made the honor roll! Your average is a 90% or
higher!" and their names are published in the school newspaper or other school
publications.
NATIONAL JUNIOR HONOR SOCIETY
To qualify, students must have an overall GPA of 93% or higher for their
seventh grade year and an average GPA of 93% or higher for the first three
marking periods of their eighth grade year. The 2019-2020 students in seventh
grade will be inducted based upon their overall GPA of 93% or higher for their
seventh grade year and a GPA of 93% or higher for the first marking period of
their eighth grade year. These students ONLY will be inducted in the fall of
their eighth grade year. Students must also complete the community service
component which is 10 hours for induction and an additional 20 hours (once
inducted) to remain in good standing. In addition to community service hours,
to remain in good standing, students must maintain a 90% GPA at all times and
participate in the group community service project. Mandatory meetings are
held periodically, and students are required to pay dues each year. Eligible
students can attend the end of the year trip.
GUIDANCE COUNSELORS
Each secondary school has a team of guidance counselors whose primary
responsibility is to develop each child to the maximum of their potential.
Counselors are available daily from 7:30 AM until 3:00 PM at the following
telephone numbers.
Mrs. Michele Holton 6th Gr A-K 381-7557 mholton@aasdcat.com
Mrs. Lori Loucks 6th Gr. L-Z 381-7544 lloucks@aasdcat.com
Mrs. Eileen Starr 7th Gr. A-K 381-7560 estarr@aasdcat.com
Mr. James Connell 7th Gr. L-Z 381-7534 jamesconnell@aasdcat.com
Mrs. Bridget Stroh 8th Gr. A-K 381-7558 bstroh@aasdcat.com
Mr. Damon Luciano 8th Gr. L-Z 381-7524 dluciano@aasdcat.com
CURRICULAR PROGRAMS The Altoona Area Junior High School’s instructional courses in grades six and seven are based on a Team approach. Every student in these grades is part of a team, sharing four core area teachers. The Altoona Area School District faculty strengthens the curricular program by making connections between the core subjects (language arts, social studies, science, and mathematics). The Team approach maximizes opportunities for students to make connections across natural sciences, mathematics, and technology as well as social sciences and humanities. The critical aspect of the team approach is to build a community of learners that result in improved achievement and social development skills. Altoona Area Junior High School students in grade eight are provided with a departmental approach offering three curricular levels: Core Academic, Academic and Honors. All curricular programs provide students with many opportunities for peer interaction and participation through cooperative learning activities, meaningful project-based curriculum, opportunities to utilize technology, problem-solving, and inquiry learning activities. Reading and writing across the curriculum is stressed in all content subjects. Teaching mathematics across the curriculum, (the applications of mathematics) is also a high priority at the Altoona Area Junior High School. Teachers have also been encouraged to stress math skills and ways these skills relate to subjects other than math. Some of these skills include patterns, problem solving, and sequential thinking. Core Academic Classes The Core Academic classes provides students with essential, standards-based content- concepts and skills. This program provides students with basic understandings that will help them be successful should they decide to enter into the workforce immediately after graduation or should they decide to continue their education by enrolling in a skills-based or technical higher education program.
Academic Classes The junior high school Academic classes provides students with courses of study that provide essential knowledge and skills to prepare them for higher education. Students are expected to master essential learning objectives that have been established by the Altoona Area School District and Pennsylvania’s Standards. Attention is paid not only to essential concepts but also to problem solving and inquiry levels of understanding. Honors Classes The Honors classes of the Altoona Area School District serves students who possess outstanding intellectual abilities and who are high academic achievers motivated by challenging concepts and skills requirements. Students in the Honors classes should be excellent readers, be able to think critically, be problem solvers and be able to organize their time and skills. The program seeks to admit qualified students who have the potential to benefit from a rigorous academic program and who will take advantage of the opportunities within the Honors classes. Course material is of greater scope and depth than in the non-honors courses. Topics are addressed in greater detail; the pace is more rapid. Placement in the honors classes are based on the following prerequisites: Mathematics PSSA-PVAAS projection for Keystone Algebra I is greater than or equal to 85% of being proficient; Teacher recommendation; Must demonstrate Proficiency on ELA and Math PSSAs in grade seven; No parental waivers; admission only through criteria. Students must meet the PSSA-PVAAS projection before a teacher can recommend a student for Honors classes. If a student does not meet the projection, the student cannot be considered for Honors classes. If a student meets the proficiency projection and is recommended for Honors classes, the student will not be in Honors if he/she does not earn a proficient or advanced score on the grade seven math and ELA PSSAs. The purpose of entrance criteria for student placement in Honors classes is to assure that students enrolled in these classes are both adequately prepared and sufficiently motivated to achieve success. Honors classes students will be selected for grade eight after intensive review of grade seven progress. A school team comprised of guidance counselors, teachers, school principal and assistant principal will meet to review student data for entrance criteria completion. The range of grades earned by students in Honors classes is similar to those in non-honors classes. Teachers, counselors and the administration constantly monitor student progress to determine if the student is appropriately placed.
ENGLISH
HONORS ENGLISH 8 (Year Course)
Honors English in eighth grade requires teacher recommendation. This course
continues to focus on the same crucial information as other English courses, while
requiring students to look deeper into topics and expand upon material. Writing is a
major portion of this course. Students use the writing process to complete assignments
in all modes of writing. Students learn grammar and mechanics through direct
instruction and focus corrections of writings. Literature study includes non-fiction,
fiction, poetry, and the novel Tom Sawyer. Students also read three novels
independently. Vocabulary is developed through literature, writing, and a vocabulary
book. At the end of this course, students will be able to:
• Produce papers using various types of writing, including expository, narrative,
argumentative, and descriptive forms.
• Respond to prompts similar to those given on the PSSA test while
determining what mode of writing the prompt requires.
• Use the writing process expertly to write and edit their papers for proper
grammar, punctuation, spelling, and format.
• Research information, documenting three or more sources and using
parenthetical references.
• Use proper grammar in oral and written communication.
• Analyze literature selections for literary elements.
• Read and understand contemporary and classic literature independently.
• Express thoughts clearly in group presentations and individual presentations.
ACADEMIC ENGLISH 8 (Year Course)
Academic English in eighth grade provides an intense review of English grammar and
usage, sentence structure, mechanics, research techniques, and vocabulary and
spelling. There is a focus on the process of writing through prewriting, writing, and
revising prompts (narrative, informational, and persuasive). Teachers continue to utilize
Domain Rubric Scoring to evaluate students’ writing. Teachers also incorporate PSSAstrategies and standards throughout instruction to prepare eighth grade students for the
PSSA. Literature study includes short stories, poems, mythology, and non-fiction
selections. At the end of this course, students will be able to:
• Use proper grammar in speaking and writing.
• Use the writing process to write and edit their papers.
• Utilize the PSSA Scoring Domains (focus, content, organization, style, and
conventions).
• Compose expository, argumentative, and narrative essays.
• Research information, documenting more than one source.
• Read and understand contemporary and classic literature.
ENGLISH 8 (Year Course)
Students in eighth grade English study grammar, usage, sentence structure, research
techniques, mechanics, and spelling and vocabulary development. There is a focus on
writing through prewriting, writing, and revising prompts (narrative, argumentative, and
expository). In eighth grade, teachers continue to utilize Domain Rubric Scoring to
evaluate students’ writing. Teachers also incorporate PSSA strategies and standards
throughout instruction to prepare students for the PSSA. Literature study includes short
stories, poems, mythology, and non-fiction. At the end of this course, students will be
able to:
• Use proper grammar in speaking and writing.
• Research information, documenting more than one source.
• Use the writing process to produce and edit their own work.
• Utilize the PSSA Scoring Domains (focus, content, organization, style, and
conventions).
• Compose expository, narrative, and argumentative essays.
• Analyze classic and contemporary literature.
ELA INTERVENTION (Semester Course)
Eighth grade students who did not attain a proficient or advanced score on the 7th
grade ELA PSSA will be automatically placed in this intervention course. This course
will focus on students meeting the 8th grade ELA Eligible Content and Academic
Standards. Students will be taught close reading strategies, text-dependent analysis,
study skills, grammar/mechanics and critical thinking skills. The goal is for all students
to make significant gains on the 8th grade ELA PSSA.READING
HONORS READING 8 (Year Course)
Honors reading in grade eight provides a review and further
instruction in vocabulary development, comprehension of
literature and word analysis. This course will emphasize and extend literature,
vocabulary development, and word analysis skills supplemented by writing. This course
seeks to equip students with awareness of different genre, the ability to analyze
literature, the ability to respond to literature in a written format, and the ability to utilize
critical judgment skills. Also stressed is the enhancement of the student’s enjoyment of
reading, and their employment of study strategies. Upon completion of this course, the
student will be able to:
• Analyze literature through close reading.
• Read and analyze classical, contemporary and ancillary novels.
• Read and analyze non-fiction print selections.
• Read and enjoy novels, poems, short stories and non-fiction articles
recreationally.
• Identify and define Greek and Latin roots and affixes to decipher word
meaning.
• Utilize context clues to decipher word meaning.
• Develop vocabulary of target words found in reading selections.
• Comprehend, recall and cite key facts and concepts from print sources.
• Increase reading speed and retention of various types of printed materials.
• Use critical judgment to solve problems and predict outcomes.
• Participate meaningfully in discussion of a given piece of literature.
• Use study techniques in reading, note taking, study, and test taking.
• Respond in written form to various readings, reflecting content of selection,
and extending content to self and other issues.
• Apply and improve research through the use of technology.
• Produce projects and other works related to the literature being studied.
ACADEMIC READING 8 (Year Course)
Developmental reading in grade eight is a required course for all eighth grade students.
This course will emphasize literature, vocabulary development, and word attack skills
supplemented by writing. This course seeks to equip students with awareness of
different genre, the ability to analyze literature, the ability to respond to literature in a
written format, and the ability to utilize critical judgment skills. Also stressed is the
enhancement of the student’s enjoyment of reading, and their employment of study
strategies. Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
• Analyze literature through close reading.
• Read and analyze classical, contemporary and ancillary novels.• Read and analyze non-fiction print selections.
• Read and enjoy novels, poems, short stories and non-fiction articles
recreationally.
• Identify and define Greek and Latin roots and affixes to decipher word
meaning.
• Utilize context clues to decipher word meaning.
• Develop vocabulary of target words found in reading selections.
• Comprehend, recall and cite key facts and concepts from print sources.
• Increase reading speed and retention of various types of printed materials.
• Use critical judgment to solve problems and predict outcomes.
• Participate meaningfully in discussion of a given piece of literature.
• Use study techniques in reading, note taking, study, and test taking.
• Respond in written form to various readings, reflecting content of selection,
and extending content to self and other issues.
• Apply and improve research through the use of technology.
• Produce projects and other works related to the literature being studied.
READING 8 (Year Course)
Developmental reading in grade eight is a required course for all eighth grade students.
The course will emphasize literature, vocabulary development, and work attack skills
supplemented by writing. This course seeks to equip students with basic reading skills,
develop critical judgment skills, enhance student enjoyment of reading, and improve
knowledge and use of study skills. Upon completion of this course, the student will be
able to:
• Analyze literature through close reading.
• Read and analyze non-fiction print selections.
• Read and enjoy novels, poems, short stories and non-fiction articles
recreationally.
• Identify and define Greek and Latin roots and affixes to decipher work meaning.
• Utilize context clues to decipher word meaning.
• Develop vocabulary of target words found in reading selections.
• Comprehend, recall and cite key facts and concepts from print sources.
• Increase reading speed and retention of various types of printed materials.
• Use critical judgment to solve problems and predict outcomes.
• Participate meaningfully in discussion of a given piece of literature.
• Use student techniques in reading, note taking, study, and test taking.
• Respond in written form to various reading, reflecting content of selection, and
extending content to self and other issues.
• Apply and improve research through the use of technology.
• Produce projects and other works related to the literature being studied.MATHEMATICS
HONORS ALGEBRA I - 8 (Year Course)
*Students must meet specific requirements to enroll in this course.*
Honors Algebra I is a rigorous course designed to provide the necessary skills for the
study of Honors Algebra II. Course content includes solving equations and inequalities,
linear equations, linear functions, systems of linear equations and functions, piecewise
functions, exponents and exponential functions, polynomials and factoring, quadratic
functions, solving quadratic equations, working with functions, and statistics. A strong
emphasis on the area of problem solving will be utilized in this course. Upon completion
of this course, the student will be able to:
• Solve equations and inequalities.
• Analyze descriptions of lines and write their equations in different forms.
• Write, graph, and transform linear functions.
• Apply analytic methods to tabular and graphic data sets that have linear
relationships.
• Solve systems of linear equations and inequalities and identify when each
solution is most useful.
• Identify characteristics of absolute value functions and other piecewise-defined
functions.
• Understand that transformations can be applied to absolute value functions.
• Identify, write, graph, and transform exponential functions.
• Use exponential functions to model real world situations and make predictions.
• Factor polynomials.
• Add, subtract, and multiply polynomials.
• Graph quadratic functions.
• Solve quadratic equations.
• Identify key features of radical functions and learn how to transform, combine,
and inverse functions.
• Interpret data displays and create inferences based on data.
• Become familiar and practice Keystone Standards.
ACADEMIC PA CORE MATH 8 (Year Course)
This course is designed to provide an in depth study of the necessary skills for the study
of Algebra I. This course will explore in detail the study of real numbers, analyzing andsolving linear equations, using functions to model equations, investigating bivariate
data, analyzing and solving systems of linear equations, studying congruency and
similarity, understanding and applying Pythagorean theorem, and solving problems
involving surface area and volume. Upon completion of this course, the student will be
able to:
• Distinguish between rational and irrational numbers using their properties.
• Estimate irrational numbers by comparing them to rational numbers.
• Apply concepts of radicals and integer exponents to generate equivalent
expressions.
• Understand the connections between proportional relationships, lines, and
liner equations.
• Analyze and solve liner equations and pairs of simultaneous linear equations.
• Define, evaluate, and compare functions.
• Use concepts of functions to model relationships between quantities.
• Apply the concepts of volume of cylinders, cones, and spheres to solve real-
world problems.
• Understand an apply congruence, similarity, and geometric transformations
using various tools.
• Understand and apply the Pythagorean Theorem to solve problems.
• Analyze and/or interpret bivariate data displayed in multiple representations.
• Understand the patterns of association can be seen in bivariate data utilizing
frequencies.
• Become familiar and practice PSSA Standards.
PA CORE MATH 8 (Year Course)
This course is designed to provide the necessary skills for the study of Algebra I.
Course content includes the study of real numbers, analyzing and solving linear
equations, using functions to model equations, investigating bivariate data, analyzing
and solving systems of linear equations, studying congruency and similarity,
understanding and applying Pythagorean theorem, and solving problems involving
surface area and volume. Upon completion of this course, the student will be able to:
• Understand rational and irrational numbers.
• Compare and order rational and irrational numbers.
• Solve equations using square roots and cube roots.
• Solve problems using scientific notation.
• Solve linear equations.
• Determine whether a relation is a function.
• Compare properties of functions.
• Construct, analyze, categorize, and interpret scatter plots, linear associations,
two-way frequency tables, and two-way relative frequency tables.
• Solve systems of linear equations.
• Analyze transformations.
• Understand congruent and similar figures.• Understand angle relationships among angles formed by parallel lines and a
transversal.
• Understand and apply the Pythagorean Theorem to solve real-world or
mathematical problems.
• Determine the surface area of cylinders, cones, and spheres.
• Become familiar and practice PSSA Standards.
MATH INTERVENTION (Semester Course)
Math Intervention is a course designed to provide the necessary skills to prepare for
Algebra I. Students who were not proficient on the 7th grade PSSA will be enrolled in
this course. This course will allow students to focus on skill deficits. Focus on these
skills will allow students to understand these topics prior to taking Algebra I.
SOCIAL STUDIES
HONORS AMERICAN HISTORY 8 (Year Course)
This course is designed to provide students with the skills and factual knowledge
necessary to deal with the problems and materials in American History. This course
develops the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions based on an informed judgment
and to present ideas clearly and persuasively in an essay format. Students study the
history of the United States from Jeffersonian Era to World War I.
The major topics of study include: Jeffersonian Democracy (1800-1816); Era of Good
Feelings (1816-1824); Westward Expansion (1820-1860); Jacksonian Democracy
(1824-1840); Pre-Civil War America (1840-1861); Civil War (1861-1865);
Reconstruction (1865-1877); Labor Movement (1850-1910); Immigration (1845-1920);
Growth of Cities (1880-1910); Progressive Movement (1890-1910); Theodore Roosevelt
(1900-1910); Spanish American War (1895-1898); World War I (1914-1918). Upon
completion of this course, the students will be able to:
• Trace the development of the United States from Jeffersonian Democracy to
World War I.
• Construct and write historical essays of varying types using a variety of
sources.
• Analyze and interpret primary source including charts, graphs, political
cartoons, letters, diaries, and speeches.• Read and interpret historical evidence in addition to their assigned textbook.
• Use historical sources for research purposes.
ACADEMIC AMERICAN HISTORY 8 (Year Course)
This course deals with the America starting with the Jeffersonian Era to World War I.
The course traces the expansion of our nation including the people, places, and events
that have influenced this nation. Upon completion of this course, the student will be
able to:
• Trace the historical development of the groups of people, the states, and the
political groups of the early United States.
• Distinguish how geography influenced the development of the nation and how
people learned to adapt.
• Distinguish between the early forms of government in terms of development,
leadership, laws, organization and functions of the government.
• Evaluate how our forefathers settled conflicts over politics, race, etc.
• Compare the issues of the north and south in the conflict over slavery.
• Assess the impact of immigration on the history and development of the
United States.
• Reasons for and effect of urban revolution of the late 1800’s and early 1900’s
• Review major national and foreign affairs which occurred during 1891 and
1893.
• Summarize the causes and major events of WWI.
AMERICAN HISTORY 8 (Year Course)
This course deals with the Jeffersonian Era through World War I. Students gain an
understanding and appreciation of the development of the political economic systems of
American’s evolution, as well as an understanding of individuals/forces that influences
the birth/expansion of our nation. Upon completion of this course, the student will be
able to:
• Appreciate how the government of the United States was created,
established, and developed.
• Describe important developments in American History between the
Revolutionary War and the Civil War.
• Explain causes and events that led to the settlement of the West.
• Recognize that the Civil War and the Reconstruction of the Union affirmed the
power of the national government.
• Explore how labor unions grew and developed in the late 1800’s.
• Describe the impact on immigration on the history and development of the
United States.SCIENCE
HONORS INTEGRATED SCIENCE 8 (Year
Course)
This course is designed as a hands on approach to science, with a technology
component, and real world 21st century learning skills in the following areas:
Atoms and the periodic table, chemical reactions, forces and motion, history of the
earth, earth sun moon, solar system universe, genes and heredity, natural selection,
energy in the atmosphere and ocean, and climate. In this course the teacher will act as
a facilitator with students utilizing the Pearson Online Program to help guide the
curriculum for personalized learning. Upon completion of activities in Honors Integrated
Science 8, all students should develop:
• Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry.
• Understanding about scientific inquiry.
• Understanding the relationship between scientific concepts.
• Real world application abilities related to scientific principles.
• Skills necessary to make observations, inferences, interpretations,
classifications and compare/contrast.
• Ability to communicate through written form in areas such prediction,
summary, hypothesis, reflections and laboratory reports.
ACADEMIC INTEGRATED SCIENCE 8 (Year Course)
This course is designed as a hands on approach to science, with a technology
component, and real world 21st century learning skills in the following areas:
Atoms and the periodic table, chemical reactions, forces and motion, history of the
earth, earth sun moon, solar system universe, genes and heredity, natural selection,
energy in the atmosphere and ocean, and climate. In this course the teacher will act as
a facilitator with students utilizing the Pearson Online Program to help guide the
curriculum for personalized learning. Upon completion of activities in Academic
Integrated Science 8, all students should develop:
• Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry.
• Understanding about scientific inquiry.
• Understand the relationship between scientific concepts.
• Real world application abilities related to scientific principles.• Skills necessary to make observations, inferences, interpretations,
classification and compare/contrast.
• Ability to communicate through written form in areas such as prediction,
summary, hypothesis, reflections and laboratory reports.
INTEGRATED SCIENCE 8 (Year Course)
This course is designed as a hands on approach to science, with a technology
component, and real world 21st century learning skills in the following areas:
Atoms and the periodic table, chemical reactions, forces and motion, history of the
earth, earth sun moon, solar system universe, genes and heredity, natural selection,
energy in the atmosphere and ocean, and climate. In this course the teacher will act as
a facilitator with students utilizing the Pearson Online Program to help guide the
curriculum for personalized learning. Upon completion of activities in Integrated
Science 8, all students should develop:
• Abilities necessary to do scientific inquiry.
• Understanding about scientific inquiry.
• Understanding about the relationship between scientific concepts.
• Real world application abilities related to scientific principles.
• Skills necessary to make observations, inferences, interpretations,
classifications, and compare/contrast.
• Ability to communicate through written form in areas such as prediction,
summary, hypothesis, reflections and laboratory reports.
ELECTIVES
NEWSWRITING (Year Course)
Teamwork is essential to establishing a successful school newspaper. Students learn to
take responsibility and collaborate in a learning environment. A newspaper serves many
functions, including reporting news and serving as a written record of the school’s
events. Keep in mind, not all school events occur during the course of the school day. It
may be necessary for students to cover events or conduct interviews before or after
normal school hours. All students choosing to participate in this course will perform all of
the duties associated with producing a school newspaper. Teacher recommendation
and signed contract are necessary for course assignment. This course is product-
oriented. Students participate in the following activities:
• Brainstorming story ideas.
• Conducting Interviews.
• Writing stories including news, sports, features, editorials, and columns.• Writing headlines. • Taking Photos. • Designing the newspaper. DRAMATICS (Year Course) This performance-based elective course will introduce students to all aspects of theater, including the art of acting and technical theater. Participation is required in this class; therefore, students must be willing to perform in front of an audience. A variety of performance activities will be used, including: • Pantomime. • Reader’s theater. • Puppetry. • Slam poetry. • Acting. • Improvisation. Students will polish their theater knowledge through activities that guide their learning about: • Character development. • Voice impression. • Stage terminology. • Scriptwriting. • Ensemble work. • Theater history. A study of musical theater complements the course through the introduction of basic theory of technical theater including: • Costume design. • Stage makeup. • Stage lighting. • Sound. • Set and prop construction. • Publicity. CONSTRUCTION AND PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY (Semester Course) This course will allow students to experience a more in-depth look at the manufacturing industry and production techniques. This course will deal with the various aspects and techniques related to woodworking. With the instructor’s assistance, the student will design, plan, and construct various projects using a combination of materials. The
students will also explore current technologies used in the industry, such as CNC router,
mill, laser, and lathe. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
• Identify and apply terms relevant to construction and production technology.
• Outline the history and major changes in the industry.
• Describe the basic organizational structures and types of manufacturing systems.
• Explain the role of production and construction in our economy, society, and the
environment.
• Utilize the technological problem-solving model.
• Apply knowledge to create and develop hands-on projects by utilizing the
tools/machines available in the laboratory.
• Identify and demonstrate the safe use of applicable tools, machines and
materials in the laboratory.
• Research and explore careers related to construction and production, along with
different types of educational training used in industry.
JUNIOR PAW PRODUCTION (JPP) VIDEO
EDITING/PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY (Year Course)
This course is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to function in a
media-oriented society. Students will be required to design and develop video/audio
projects/segments using preproduction planning, storyboarding/scripting, filming,
editing, and post-production techniques. Students explore the theory and practice of
various editing styles in order to gain a better understanding of how stories are
constructed in the editing room. Through demonstrations and hands-on experience,
students learn advanced editing techniques with an in-depth examination of Adobe
Premier Pro. Strong emphasis is placed on post-production techniques that improve the
sound and image quality of the videos. Teacher recommendation is required. Upon
completion of this course, students will be able to:
• Evaluate the criteria and constraints of a design.
• Explore the design process as a collaborative endeavor in which each person in
the group presents his or her ideas in an open forum.
• Operate and maintain systems in order to achieve a given purpose.
• Efficiently use technological devices and software to convey a message.
• Describe how the design of the message is influenced by such factors as the
intended audience, medium, purpose, and nature of the message.
• Design, produce and edit film to create a video production, utilizing the video
cameras/equipment and Adobe software.
• Work cooperatively as a team from start to finish on complex projects to convey a
positive message.GRAPHICS AND MULTIMEDIA/COMMUNICATON
TECHNOLOGIES (Semester Course)
This course offers hands-on exploration of computer assisted techniques of editing,
design, graphic production and layout of publications. Students will work on many
different forms of multimedia technology. Students will explore areas of desktop
publishing utilizing software in the Adobe Suite to layout and design graphics to be
incorporated into publications such as postcards, brochures, advertisements,
newsletters, and package designs. Students will be introduced to digital photography,
composition, and image enhancing through the use of various software and
technological devices. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
• Identify and discuss the different types of communications.
• Evaluate the positive and negative impacts of communication technology.
• Utilize software to create vector and bitmap graphical images.
• Explore areas of desktop publishing to design and create postcards, brochures,
newsletters, and other printed materials.
• Utilize digital photography equipment and software to convey a message.
DRAFTING AND DESIGN (Semester Course)
Drafting and Design is a class for students who want to explore the world of Technical
Design. Using the techniques of Technical Sketching, mechanical Drafting, and CADD
(Computer Aided Drafting and Design) students will hone their skills to complete
projects including:
• 2D & 3D Technical Sketching.
• 2D & 3D Drafting.
• Implementation of the Autodesk Suite.
• Scale Modeling & Prototyping using 3D printers and laser engravers.
• Reading and creating blueprints.
• Exploring careers related to drafting.
All drawings created will be available to the students at the conclusion of the course to
be assembled into a portfolio documenting their endeavors into the world of Drafting
and Design. Teacher recommendation is required.EXPERIMENTAL DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT
(Semester Course)
This semester long course will introduce students to the process of designing and
carrying out a scientific research project from developing a testable research question,
to designing materials needed to complete the research, to collecting data and
communicating results. Both the engineering design process and scientific method will
be followed. Students may complete previously designed research or design and carry
out their own experiments to answer a question of interest to them. Teacher signatures
from 7th grade Technology Education, Science, and Mathematics required. Upon
completion of this course, students will be able to:
• Utilize and apply the engineering design process to plan, create, build, test, and
evaluate various problems.
• Identify and discuss the relationship between technology, science, and society.
• Identify and demonstrate the safe use of applicable tools, machines, and
materials in the lab.
ENGINEERING DESIGN & DEVELOPMENT (Semester Course)
This course is designed to provide the student with problem solving activities related to
scientific and engineering principles. Students plan, develop, and analyze individual and
group projects dealing with innovation, construction, power and energy, and
transportation systems. Activities may include research and design in the areas of land
transportation, marine transportation, bridge/tower construction, circuitry, and robotics.
The area of System Control/robotics introduces students to the history of robotics, the
terminology used in robotics, and robotic programming. Students will use software and
Lego® Mindstorm® to design, build, program, and test robots that solve “real life”
challenges. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to:
• Utilize and apply the engineering design process model to plan, create, build, test
and evaluate various structural designs.
• Identify the types of forces applied to all structures.
• Identify and experiment with the different form of energy.
• Utilize robotic software and Lego® Mindstorm® to create and test several robotic
programs.
• Identify and demonstrate the safe use of applicable tools, machines, and
materials in the laboratory.
INTRODUCTION TO CODING (Semester Course)
Introduction to Coding will introduce eighth grade students to the fundamental principles
of coding. The class will be a highly interactive and collaborative introduction to the fieldof computer science. Throughout the course students will use a problem solving
process to complete puzzles, challenges and real-world scenarios. Students will create
images, animations, and games. Upon completion of this course, students will be able
to:
• Identify and define characteristics of a computer.
• Define and use a structured problem solving process and apply this process to
solve various problems.
• Create images, animations, and games.
• Practice design, testing, and debugging programs.
• Create a web page.
YEARBOOK (Year Course)
Students are members of the junior high school yearbook staff and are solely
responsible for the production of the yearbook. Staff members participate in all aspects
of the book’s creation, including theme development, layout design, reporting of school
events, writing captions, and photography. Class time is used to create the publication,
but it may be necessary, at times, to attend after-school events to both report on
sports/activities and take photographs. Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation is
required. During this course students will:
• Be provided a laboratory experience culminating in the actual production of the
school yearbook.
• Practice journalistic principles as they apply to the production of a yearbook.
• Operate desktop publishing and photo editing software.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION 8 (Semester Course)
Physical Education class is required of all students. Students
participate in a planned semester physical education program. The
planned program consists of physical fitness evaluation, lifetime and
recreational activities, individual and team sports, and aerobic and cardiovascular
conditioning. This three-year program is designed to give each student a competency
level for future use and an interest that can be fostered throughout life. Upon
completion of this course, the students will be able to:
• Demonstrate knowledge of safety procedures and respect the importance of
safety in all activities.
• Demonstrate knowledge of rules, information, and strategies in various
activities, which will better enable participation in each activity.
• Develop basic skill levels to facilitate participation in each activity.• Acquire the ability and knowledge to assess individual physical fitness level
and take part in various activities that enhance physical fitness, wellness, and
cardiovascular capacity.
• Demonstrate social skills required to work effectively within a group and for
the benefit of the group as a whole.
• Demonstrate the appreciation of the rewards received by participation in
competitive activities.
• Demonstrate the ability to apply physical education to life.
CAREER AWARENESS 8 (Semester Course)
This course is designed to introduce eighth grade students to specific knowledge, skills,
and abilities necessary to deal effectively with lifelong career development. National
career development competencies and indicators are utilized in three major units to
provide for student discovery and exploration. The course is organized around 1)
educational and occupational exploration, 2) career planning, 3) digital literacy and
responsibility, and financial skills/budgeting. Upon completion of the course, students
will be able to:
• Explain the benefits of educational achievement to career opportunities.
• Establish skills to locate, understand, and use career information.
• Develop skills necessary to seek job opportunities.
• Explain the process of career planning.
• Explain a digital footprint and how it is created.
• Identify methods to engage with others online in a respectful manner.
• Differentiate the negative and positive aspects of an online community.
• Describe how data can be shared.
• Prioritize and differentiate between an individual’s needs and wants
• Differentiate among different available payment methods (cash, credit/debit
cards).
• Describe different sources of income including wages, salaries, and benefits.
• Analyze a budget to calculate a revenue, expenses, and profit/loss.
POTTERY AND SCULPTURE (Semester Course)
In this course, students will explore various techniques in sculpture and ceramics to
create three-dimensional art. Students will learn the basic skills of hand-built pottery as
they create both functional and decorative ceramic forms. A hands-on approach to
learning will allow students to create a number of ceramic pieces, sculptures,
constructions, and assemblages. This course is for beginner and intermediate students
and no prior knowledge of pottery and sculpture is required or expected. Upon
completion of this course, students will be able to:• Create three-dimensional forms using additive and subtractive techniques.
• Know and use vocabulary terms related to three-dimensional art.
• Demonstrate creativity with three-dimensional drawing and materials..
• Identify functional and decorative forms in art.
• Describe, analyze, and interpret artworks past and present.
• Practice correct and safe use of art media and tools.
ART EXPLORATION (Semester Course)
In this course, students will explore drawing, painting, printmaking, and collage
techniques. Students will use an exciting assortment of materials, tools, and surfaces to
create unique works of art using a combination of art methods. This course is designed
to give students a wide variety of art making experiences and allow students to explore
various visual art forms and techniques. Upon completion of this course, students will
be able to:
• Use materials, tools, and processes to combine a variety of art media within a
single artwork.
• Investigate ideas and personal experiences to create works of art.
• Recognize important historical and present day mixed media artists.
• Know and use vocabulary related to mixed media art.
• Make critical and aesthetic judgments when looking at art.
• Practice correct and safe use of art tools and media.
PAINTING (Semester Course)
This course will focus on the fundamentals of painting. Students will learn about color
theory and a variety of paint media and techniques. This is a course for beginner and
intermediate students and no prior knowledge of painting is required or expected. Upon
completion of this course, the student will be able to:
• Use materials, tools, and processes from a variety of painting media.
• Apply the basic principles of a variety of introductory painting techniques.
• Produce creative works that demonstrate originality in concepts and materials.
• Engage in creative problem solving through a variety of exercises and extended
painting projects.
• Know and use vocabulary related to art during self-reflections and classroom
discussions.
• Describe, analyze, and interpret artworks past and present.
• Practice correct and safe use of art media and materials.DRAWING 8 (Semester Course)
In this course, students will explore the fundamentals of drawing as they develop skills
and techniques using a variety of drawing materials. Students will learn how to
represent what they see through techniques and include contour line drawing, shading,
and perspective. In addition, students will turn personal experience and imagination into
unique drawings. No prior knowledge of drawing is required or expected. Upon
completion of this course, the student will be able to:
• Use materials, tools, and processes from a variety of drawing media.
• Apply the basic principles of a variety of introductory drawing techniques.
• Produce creative works that demonstrate originality in concepts and materials.
• Engage in creative problem solving through a variety of exercises and extended
drawing projects.
• Know and use vocabulary related to art during self-reflections and classroom
discussions.
• Recognize the historical and contemporary role of drawing as a primary art form.
• Practice correct and safe use of art media and materials.
CHORUS 8 (Year Course)
Students in this co-curricular elective must have an interest and ability in singing. This
course offers students a comprehensive experience in the choral art with explorations of
various music genres, sight singing, the reading and comprehension of basic notation
and score reading. Two concerts, winter and spring, will require students to attend after
school rehearsals and performances. Prerequisite: Participation in chorus 7. New
students must pass an audition and have approval of the director. Upon completion of
this course, the student will be able to:
• Sing with proper vocal techniques including posture, breathing and vowel
placement.
• Sing a variety of styles two and three-part choral music in various languages.
• Know and use musical terminology as it relates to the choral art.
• Perform (sing) above-basic to intermediate level melodic/rhythmic passages on
sight.
• Perform with the chorus in two concerts.
• Understand the contribution the choral art makes to society and culture.
BAND 8 (Year Course)
Students in this elective must have an interest and ability in playing woodwind, brass, or
percussion instruments. This course offers students a comprehensive experience in
both marching and concert band through performance at football games, community
parades, and concerts. Students will explore various music genres, sight reading, thereading and comprehension of intermediate notation and musical interpretation.
Students will be required to attend after school rehearsals and performances.
Prerequisite: Approval of the Band director. Upon completion of this course, the student
will be able to:
• Students will consistently demonstrate proper techniques including posture,
breathing, articulation, dynamics, pitch, and tone production.
• Play a variety of styles of music in both marching and concert settings.
• Know and use musical terminology as it relates to the band music performance.
• Play basic to intermediate level melodic passages on sight.
• Perform with the bands in several concerts, several parades, and multiple field
marching performances.
• Understand the contribution the band art and participation makes to society and
culture.
ORCHESTRA 8 (Year Course)
Students in this elective must have an interest and ability in playing the violin, viola,
cello, and bass. Prior experience in the orchestra program at the middle school level is
preferred, but not necessary. This course offers students a comprehensive experience
orchestral music through performance at concerts and community events. Students will
explore various music genres, sight reading, the reading and comprehension of basic
notation and musical interpretation. Upon completion of this course, the student will be
able to:
• Play with proper techniques including posture, technique, articulation, dynamics,
pitch, and tone production.
• Play a variety of styles of music.
• Demonstrate basic string skills such as bowing, fingerings, slurs and left hand
finger technique.
• Know and use musical terminology as it relates to the music performance.
• Play basic to intermediate level melodic passages on sight.
• Perform with the orchestra in several concerts and community events.
• Understand the contribution music makes to society and culture.
THE REAL WORLD (Semester Course)
This course will focus on 1 marking period of important topics/issues that teens face
today (described below) and 1 marking period of consumer education (described
below).
Teen Issues:
Do you want to express yourself? Do you want to learn how to handle anger, family
issues, depression, and conflict? In this course, we talk about the most current issuesand trends for teens including sleep deprivation, relationship issues, smoking, drinking drugs, bullying, teen pregnancy, stress and anxiety, and much, much more? If you want to be a part of this discussion, then join us for all the action! Consumerism: I used to be a banker, but I lost interest……hahahahahaha…If you didn’t find that funny, then you need to sign up for The Real World. Take a ride through this adventurous class and learn life skills that will stick with you once you are in the real world! This hands-on course will put you on the right track in life. We will discuss credit cards, applying for a job, buying a car, checking and banking, taxes, renting a home/apt., advertising and more. Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: • Examine bullying; where to go to for help, how to handle it. • Analyze healthy dating relationships. • List methods of coping with anxiety, stress, and depression. • Demonstrate appropriate reactions to anger. • Identify different types of drugs and the effect it has on the human body. • Compare credit cards. • Write checks and balance a checkbook. • Complete job applications. • Analyze different advertising techniques. • CHILD DEVELOPMENT 8 (Semester Course) Do you love babies and toddlers? Join Child Development and learn how to care for them, but first we need to understand pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Other topics include childhood diseases, fetal alcohol syndrome, shaken baby syndrome, SIDS, and lots more. The best part is….you get to take home a RealCare Baby® that simulates a REAL baby. After that, you will design creative projects and fun ways to teach children a variety of concepts. Join the fun and become involved with the unique and creative projects! Upon completion of this course, students will be able to: • Examine the 3 trimesters of pregnancy. • Define terms associated with childbirth. • Explore prenatal and postnatal care. • Analyze developmental stages from birth to preschool aged children. • Compare developmental theorists and psychologists • Create age appropriate lesson plans.
FOODS FOR HEALTHY LIVING (Semester Course)
This course will allow students to learn basics of food preparation that can be utilized for
a lifetime. Kitchen safety and sanitation skills will be emphasized. Students will gain
hands on practical experience as they prepare foods and snacks, and learn to cook with
less fat, sugar, and sodium. Students will learn about ingredient functions and how to
use them in a recipe to be successful. Students learn about each food group associated
with MyPlate.gov and prepare foods based on each group. Students will appraise
sources of food and nutrition and wellness needs. Students will learn how to select,
store, prepare, and serve nutritious and aesthetically pleasing foods. Upon completion
of this course, students will be able to:
• Practice correct food and kitchen safety rules.
• Practice food safety and sanitation techniques.
• Interpret the dietary guidelines and/or MyPlate.gov.
• Discuss and analyze basic nutrition information.
• Describe a healthy diet and food choices, and explain why such choices will help
prevent health problems.
• Prepare an array of foods using the skills developed from cooking an array of
recipes.
• Prepare foods following the dietary guidelines and MyPlate.gov.
• Distinguish sound nutritional information from unreliable nutritional information.You can also read
