MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE 2020-2021

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MIDDLE SCHOOL
         COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE
                2020-2021

      ROCKWOOD VALLEY MIDDLE SCHOOL
         1220 Babler Park Drive in Wildwood, Missouri 63038
            Phone: (636) 733-4270 Fax: (636) 458-7325

The Rockwood Middle School Course Description Guide is also available online:
                        curriculum@rsdmo.org
2
Dr. Karen Hedrick, Principal
                                                                         Tom McKenna, Assistant Principal
                                                                         Ms. Beth Ruta, Assistant Principal

Dear Rockwood Valley Students and Parents:

Welcome to Rockwood Valley Middle School as we begin the registration process for the upcoming
2020-2021 school year. In this Course Description Guide, you’ll find information that will help you make
decisions about your course selections. Please take the opportunity to read this information and discuss
your choices with your teachers, school counselor and family.

Our mission is to do whatever it takes to ensure every student realizes their potential. We are committed
to improving each student’s academic performance. We offer a balanced program of required, elective
and exploratory courses that will encourage our students’ growth and prepare them for their academic
career as they move forward with their Rockwood education.

Education and learning extends beyond the school day, so please expect to have some homework each
evening. In addition, we encourage our students to be involved in activities that will make them feel a
sense of belonging as part of our school community. Please take a moment to read the Challenge Course
section in this guide to ensure you are aware of course-level comparisons for the coming school year.

We are proud of our Rockwood Valley traditions and our reputation for excellence in education. Be
assured that we will continue our commitment of excellence that prepares our students for college, career
and citizenship. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to educate students and serve our families.

Sincerely,

Dr. Karen Hedrick
Principal

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________TABLE     OF CONTENTS________
News from our School Counselors                                 page 6

Rockwood School District Curriculum                             page 7

Middle School Challenge Program Placement                       page 8
  Earning High School Credit in Middle School                  page 10
  Comparison Charts                                            page 11

Sixth-Grade Courses                                            page 19
   Curriculum                                                  page 20
   Electives Programs                                          page 25
   Exploratory Programs                                        page 27

Seventh-Grade Courses                                          page 29
  Curriculum                                                   page 30
  Electives Programs                                           page 35
  Exploratory Programs                                         page 38

Eighth-Grade Courses                                           page 40
  Curriculum                                                   page 41
   Electives Programs                                          page 46
   Exploratory Programs                                        page 49

Student Services and Programs
  English for Speakers of Other Languages                      page 52
   Special Education                                           page 53

Frequently Asked Questions                                     page 54

Preparing for High School, College and Career
   Graduation Requirements                                     page 56

Concert Performance Expectations: Elective Music Courses       page 57

                                                5
________ Registration       News from our School Counselors ________

It’s time to enroll your student into middle school classes for the 2020-2021 school year.

Currently, we are meeting with our students to provide them with all the information and tools they need
to enroll. Our focus is helping students develop a personal plan of study to guide them toward their
academic goals. Students will need to complete the Course Selection Google Form for next year’s grade
level, and sixth and seventh grade students will be enrolling with their school counselor on infinite
Campus. This will not be done at home. Incoming sixth graders will not be completing enrollment on
Infinite Campus.

You are always welcome to contact our office with any questions or concerns as we move forward with the
registration process.

RVMS School Counselors for 2020-2021 school year:

       Ms. Jamie McGuire                                           Ms. Zana Ganic
       6th Grade Registration Support                              Social Worker
       School Counselor for 7th Grade                              Phone: (636) 733-4298
       Phone: (636) 733-4297                                       Email: ganiczana@rsdmo.org
       Email: mcguirejamie@rsdmo.org

       Mrs. Stacey Scott                                           Ms. Annette Lanier
       6th Grade Registration Support                              Registrar
       School Counselor for 8th Grade                              Phone: (636) 733-4290
       Phone: (636) 733-4296                                       Email: lanierannette@rsdmo.org
       Email: scottstacey@rsdmo.org

                                                     6
________ROCKWOOD            SCHOOL DISTRICT: MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM________
Our curriculum is the foundation of learning in the classroom. The Rockwood Board of Education formally
adopts all written curricula for all subject areas and all individual courses taught in the Rockwood School
District. Curriculum committees consisting of teachers, parents, administrators, and students follow a
formal curriculum development process to determine the standards, skills, and content to be mastered at
each grade level and in each course. Through this formal process, curriculum in each content area has
been also revised and aligned to the state and national standards.

The curriculum committees conduct formal reviews of current literature and current teaching and learning
practices in the content area; analyze survey feedback from parents, students, and staff; and examine
achievement data for the particular content area. Also involved in this comprehensive process is securing
input and feedback from college/university staff and our community. For more information about
Rockwood curriculum, visit our website: curriculum.rsdmo.org

NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
The Rockwood School District prohibits and will not tolerate discrimination against or harassment of any
student, employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age,
genetic information, marital status, disability, handicapping conditions, or any other factor that is not a
proper legal basis for an employment decision. This policy will prevail in all matters concerning the staff,
the students, the public, the educational programs and services of the district, and individuals with whom
the Board does business. Inquiries by students, parents, or employees regarding Rockwood School
District’s nondiscrimination policies should be directed to the compliance coordinators:

Dr. Katie Reboulet, Compliance Coordinator for Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, the
Missouri Human Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act,
the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act and P.L. 92-318, Education Amendments of 1972, Title IX
(race, color, national origin, religion, marital status, sex, age, disability for employee discrimination issues).

Rockwood Administrative Center - 111 East North Street - Eureka, Missouri 63025 - 636.733.2034

Dr. David Cobb, Compliance Coordinator for P.L. 93-112, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and
P.L. 94-142, Education for all Disabled Children Act (disability and handicapping conditions (for students)
discrimination issues).

Rockwood Administrative Center, 111 East North Street, Eureka, Missouri 63025 – 636.733.2105

                                                        7
________ MIDDLE         SCHOOL CHALLENGE PROGRAM PLACEMENT ________
The middle school challenge course curriculum provides advanced academic rigor beyond grade-level expectations.
The challenge level curriculum is designed to meet the needs of the student who will study intensified, compacted
and/or accelerated content in conjunction with individual and collaborative projects to enhance inquiry, research,
analysis, synthesis, production and communication.

WHEN IS PLACEMENT IN CHALLENGE COURSES DETERMINED?

Challenge course placement recommendation is determined every Spring. Parents receive email communication
from Rockwood’s Curriculum Department regarding placement recommendations. Families make placement
decisions together and submit their choices through an automated system.

HOW IS PLACEMENT IN CHALLENGE COURSES DETERMINED?

Challenge course placement recommendations are determined course by course for each student in the four core
subject areas: language arts, science, math, and social studies. Academic measures, student success indicators and
teacher recommendations are considered when placement recommendations are made. Students and parents can
examine placement recommendations and consider additional factors below to make the best decisions for their
child.

For each content area, your child has the option of enrolling in the regular grade-level course or may enroll in the
challenge level course. To help families in making placement decisions, success indicators are listed below, and a
guide for students to consider whether a challenge course is right for them, is included on the next page. Please
note that students may be asked to complete summer coursework to boost their skills in preparation of challenge
coursework.

WHAT SKILLS AND HABITS OF MIND HELP STUDENTS SUCCEED IN MIDDLE SCHOOL CHALLENGE LEVEL COURSES?

The following skills and habits of mind are helpful for students in challenge courses to possess.

• The student is able to read independently above grade level.
• The student is able to write independently above grade level.
• The student is able to reason abstractly and apply math concepts above grade level. (Science Challenge only)
• The student has an interest in or aptitude for the selected content knowledge.
• The student has an interest in or aptitude for process skills including research, analysis, inquiry and problem
  solving.
• The student actively engages in learning by taking initiative to expand and explore learning.
• The student consistently completes class assignments and homework on time and with attention to quality.
• The student is a consistently responsible member of the learning environment who cooperates effectively
  and communicates positively.

IF THE STUDENT IS PRESENTLY PARTICIPATING IN CHALLENGE COURSES, HOW WILL ELIGIBILITY BE DETERMINED
FOR THE COMING YEAR?
Students who successfully completed a subject-area challenge course are automatically scheduled for the same
subject area challenge course during the next school year.

                                                           8
________IS    A ROCKWOOD CHALLENGE COURSE RIGHT FOR ME? _______
Middle school is the perfect time to start exploring your interests and see how far you can push yourself
academically. Taking academic risks in middle school allows you to learn new things and gain new experiences that
will help you later in life. Think about the questions below to help you decide whether choosing a challenge course is
the best option for you.

   Am I interested in spending        Challenge courses require that students devote significant amounts of
 time learning about this course      time studying the material learning both inside and outside the school
            content?                  day, so it is important to have a strong interest in the subject.

                                      Challenge courses are demanding of time. Complex reading and
                                      writing assignments, in-depth research, and projects are regularly
                                      assigned.
  Do I have the time to commit
      to challenge courses?           Students who are involved in many extracurricular activities or have
                                      many responsibilities outside of school may want to consider starting
                                      with one challenge course rather than jumping in with multiple
                                      courses.

                                      Challenge courses move at a fast pace and often require students to
                                      work independently outside of class.
    What type of learner am I?
                                      If you enjoy the challenge of learning new material, hard work and
                                      pushing yourself to do hard things, a challenge course may be a good
                                      fit.

    Would my current teacher          Your current teacher knows you as a learner. Seeking advice from
   recommend I take challenge         your family and teachers who know you well always helps to make a
           courses?                   big decision.

 What are my work habits like in
                                 If you keep up on assignments and like to spend time focused on the
  the subject area where I am
                                 material, a challenge course may be a good choice for you.
    considering challenge?

                                      Challenge courses in middle school help students learn advanced
                                      study skills and content. Having good grades in challenge courses is
   Am I choosing a challenge
                                      one way to look at achievement. Students who take a challenge
  course for the right reasons?
                                      course show a willingness to take on academic challenges regardless
                                      of the potential impact on their grade.

                                                          9
________ EARNING         HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT IN MIDDLE SCHOOL________
The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) permits middle school students to complete selected
high school level courses for credit toward graduation. Students’ high school transcripts will reflect the appropriate
units of credit. It will be noted that these courses have been successfully completed prior to Ninth Grade.

       World Language and Math are both eligible for high school credit at the middle school level.
       The high school course will be included on the student’s transcript with a letter grade. This will happen after
        the successful completion of the subsequent course in the subject area in high school.
       The courses will meet the subject-area requirements toward high school graduation.
       The grade will not count in the student’s grade point average in high school.

Special considerations for transfers:

If a student transfers out of Rockwood before successful completion of the subsequent high school course, the credit
will not be included on the high school transcript. The receiving school will determine whether the high school credit
is awarded for the middle school course completion. A student transferring into a Rockwood School that has not had
high school credit transcripted for a high school World Language or Math course taken at the middle school level, will
only receive credit based on successful completion of the subsequent course in the subject area completed during
high school.

Special considerations for student-athletes:

In order to be eligible for high school activities, the Missouri State High School Activities Association (MSSHAA),
requires students in the 9th-12th grades to pass three (3.0) units of credit the previous semester and be enrolled in
three (3.0) units of credit for the current semester. It is important parents and students understand this MSSHAA
requirement if the student chooses to participate in high school activities.

Rockwood courses available for high school credit:

Middle school students who choose the high school level courses will receive credit that can be counted toward
meeting the subject-area requirements for graduation. It is important to note the following:

    •   Middle school students who take courses for high school credit, and then continue on the curricular track for
        World Language & Math in high school, will not receive credit for the middle school course if they retake these
        same courses in high school.

    •   State Required End-of-Course Exams-Middle school students taking Algebra 1 will take the state required
        Algebra 1 End-Of-Course exam. Students must be proficient on this exam to be eligible for the A+ program.

    •   For more information, contact your school counselor regarding the courses available for high school credit.

                                                          10
________ COURSE            COMPARISONS________
   LANGUAGE ARTS
                                   GRADE-LEVEL COURSE STUDENTS                        CHALLENGE COURSE STUDENTS
     GRADES 6-8
  Content Knowledge              Develop reading, writing, information          ● Develop reading, writing, information
      and Skills                  literacy, and listening and speaking skills.     literacy, and listening and speaking skills.
                                 Use metacognitive and active reading           ● Use metacognitive and active reading
Grade-level and Challenge         strategies to comprehend increasingly            strategies to comprehend increasingly
                                  more complex material, including fiction,
courses both exceed the                                                            more complex material, including fiction,
                                  non-fiction, poetry and drama.
grade-level requirements                                                           non-fiction, poetry and drama.
                                 Use the writing process and to create a
of the State of Missouri.         variety of types of writing.                   ● Use the writing process and to create a
                                 Learn content vocabulary embedded in             variety of types of writing. Expectations
                                  reading and writing instruction.                 for writing assignments may increase in
                                 Develop media literacy skills, use the           frequency or length in a challenge course.
                                  research process and evaluate both the         ● Learn content vocabulary embedded in
                                  relevance and reliability of information         reading and writing instruction.
                                  gathered.                                      ● Develop media literacy skills, use the
                                 Meet and exceed the course                       research process and evaluate both the
                                  requirements of Missouri Department of
                                                                                   relevance and reliability of information
                                  Elementary and Secondary Education.
                                                                                   gathered.
                                                                                 ● Meet and exceed the course requirements
                                                                                   of Missouri Department of Elementary
                                                                                   and Secondary Education.

           Pace                ● Learn content that is paced to allow for        ● Learn content that is compacted for a
The speed at which new           mastery of grade-level curriculum.                faster pace to allow for more intensive and
concepts are presented.                                                            in-depth study of the curriculum.
Challenge is a faster pace.

    Complexity and             ● Grade-level reading and writing                 ● Intensive reading and writing assignments.
      Difficulty                 assignments.                                    ● Students will apply critical process skills as
Complexity is the thought      ● Students will develop critical process skills     they assess issues, solve problems, and
processes the brain uses         for assessing issues, problem solving, and        make decisions.
to deal with information.        decision making.                                ● In-Depth individual and collaborative
                               ● Building knowledge in the disciplines             projects using intensive research, inquiry,
Difficulty is the effort the     through informational text.                       analysis, and synthesis.
learner must expend to         ● Interacting with increasingly complex text.     ● Analyzing knowledge in the disciplines
accomplish the learning        ● Being able to support answers with                through informational text.
objective.                       specific text-based details.                    ● Interacting with increasingly complex text.
                               ● Writing from sources--some teacher              ● Being able to support answers with
Challenge is more                provided, and some self-selected.                 specific text-based details and draw
complex and can be more        ● Using appropriate academic vocabulary.            inferences and conclusions.
difficult. Students should                                                       ● Writing from sources and evaluating the
be willing to commit to                                                            effectiveness/appropriateness of the
the increased                                                                      sources.
expectations of the                                                              ● Using appropriate academic vocabulary.
course.

                                                               11
WORLD HISTORY
                                  GRADE-LEVEL COURSE STUDENTS                       CHALLENGE COURSE STUDENTS
      6th GRADE
Content Knowledge and          ● Explore the ancient world from Pre-            ● Explore the ancient world from Pre-
         Skills                  history through the Middle Ages.                 history through the Middle Ages.
                               ● Analyze significant historical                 ● Analyze significant historical
Grade-level and Challenge        developments and the connection to our           developments and the connection to our
courses both exceed the          world, the relationship between humans           world, the relationship between humans
grade-level requirements         and their environment, the development           and their environment, the development
of the State of Missouri.        of government systems, and the effect of         of government systems, and the effect of
                                 trade and economic decisions on                  trade and economic decisions on
                                 societies.                                       societies.

            Pace               ● Learn content that is paced to allow for       ● Learn content that is compacted for a
The speed at which new           mastery of grade-level curriculum.               faster pace to allow for more intensive
concepts are presented.                                                           and in-depth study of the curriculum.
Challenge is a faster pace.

     Complexity and            ● Develop and apply social science inquiry       ● Develop and independently apply social
       Difficulty                skills including questioning, gathering and      science inquiry skills including
Complexity is the thought        evaluating evidence, developing claims           questioning, gathering and evaluating
processes the brain uses to      and constructing arguments and                   evidence, developing claims, and
deal with information.           explanations.                                    constructing and critiquing arguments
                               ● Develop social science inquiry skills in         and explanations.
Difficulty is the effort the     order to understand how to evaluate            ● Develop and apply social science inquiry
learner must expend to           issues, solve problems, make decisions,          skills to analyze issues, evaluate problems
accomplish the learning          and take informed action.                        and solutions, critique decision-making,
objective.                     ● Read and use a variety of text to develop        and justify taking informed action.
                                 key social studies content knowledge.          ● Utilize multiple, complex text to promote
Challenge is more complex      ● Develop skills for social studies writing to     in-depth understanding of social studies
and can be more difficult.       support social studies inquiry.                  content knowledge.
Students should be willing                                                      ● Develop skills for complex writings to
to commit to the increased                                                        support social studies inquiry.
expectations of the course.

                                                              12
WORLD GEOGRAPHY
                                   GRADE-LEVEL COURSE STUDENTS                       CHALLENGE COURSE STUDENTS
      7th GRADE
Content Knowledge and          ● Explore the human and physical                 ● Explore the human and physical
         Skills                  characteristics of the world, with               characteristics of the world, with
                                 emphasis on the relationships between            emphasis on the relationships between
Grade-level and Challenge        humans and their world, and the impact           humans and their world, and the impact
courses both exceed the          on the establishment and development of          on the establishment and development of
grade-level requirements of      societies.                                       societies.
the State of Missouri.         ● Investigate the world by region including      ● Investigate the world by region including
                                 North America, Latin/South America,              North America, Latin/South America,
                                 Southwest Asia, Africa, Asia and Europe          Southwest Asia, Africa, Asia and Europe
                                 and will develop an understanding of the         and will develop an understanding of the
                                 concepts of the governments, climate,            concepts of the governments, climate,
                                 economics, and cultures of each region.          economics, and cultures of each region.

          Pace:                ● Learn content that is paced to allow for       ● Learn content that is compacted for a
The speed at which new           mastery of grade-level curriculum.               faster pace to allow for more intensive
concepts are presented.                                                           and in-depth study of the curriculum.
Challenge is a faster pace.
     Complexity and            ● Use geographic and economic research           ● Use geographic and economic research
       Difficulty:               tools to identify patterns and trends.           tools to analyze complex geographic and
                               ● Develop and apply social science inquiry         economic issues and propose solutions.
Complexity is the thought        skills including questioning, gathering and    ● Develop, learn to independently apply
processes the brain uses to      evaluating evidence, developing claims            and evaluate social science inquiry skills
deal with information.           and constructing arguments and                    including questioning, gathering and
                                 explanations.                                     evaluating evidence, developing claims,
Difficulty is the effort the   ● Develop social studies process skills in          and constructing and critiquing
learner must expend to           order to understand how to evaluate               arguments and explanations.
accomplish the learning          issues, solve problems, make decisions,        ● Develop and independently apply social
objective.                       and take informed action.                        studies process skills in order to analyze
                               ● Utilize a variety of readings to promote         and assess issues, evaluate problems and
Challenge is more complex        the development of key social studies            solutions, critique decision-making, and
and can be more difficult.       content knowledge.                               justify informed action.
Students should be willing     ● Develop skills for social studies writing to   ● Utilize multiple, complex text and source
to commit to the increased       support social studies inquiry.                  materials to promote in-depth
expectations of the course.                                                       understanding of social studies content
                                                                                  knowledge.
                                                                                ● Develop skills for complex social studies
                                                                                  writing to support social studies inquiry.

                                                              13
UNITED STATES HISTORY
                                     GRADE-LEVEL COURSE STUDENTS                       CHALLENGE COURSE STUDENTS
       8th GRADE
 Content Knowledge and          ● Examine the history of the United States          ● Examine the history of the United
          Skills                  from exploration through reconstruction and         States from exploration through
                                  understand the relationship between our             reconstruction, and understand the
Grade-level and Challenge         nation’s past and important contemporary            relationship between our nation’s past
courses both exceed the           issues.                                             and important contemporary issues.
grade-level requirements of     ● Analyze the development of the government,        ● Analyze the development of the
the State of Missouri.            economics and culture of the United States,         government, economics and culture of
                                  along with understanding the relationship           the United States, along with
                                  between geography and growth of our                 understanding the relationship
                                  nation.                                             between geography and growth of our
                                                                                      nation.
             Pace               ● Learn content that is paced to allow for          ● Learn content that is compacted for a
The speed at which new            mastery of grade-level curriculum.                  faster pace to allow for more
concepts are presented.                                                               intensive and in-depth study of the
Challenge is a faster pace.                                                           curriculum.
Complexity and Difficulty       ● Participate in democratic decision-making,        ● Participate in democratic decision-
                                  and engage in problem solving.                      making, engage in problem solving and
Complexity is the thought       ● Develop and apply social science inquiry skills     evaluating outcomes.
processes the brain uses to       of questioning, gathering and evaluating          ● Develop and apply social science
deal with information.            evidence, developing claims and constructing        inquiry skills with an intensive
                                  arguments and explanations                          emphasis on questioning, gathering
Difficulty is the effort the    ● Develop and apply social science process            and evaluating evidence, developing
learner must expend to            skills in order to understand how to assess         claims and constructing arguments
accomplish the learning           issues, solve problems, make decisions, and         and explanations both independently
objective.                        take informed action.                               and in collaboration with others.
                                ● Utilize a variety of primary and secondary        ● Develop and independently apply
Challenge is more complex         readings and sources to promote the                 social studies process skills in order to
and can be more difficult.        development of key social studies content           analyze and assess issues, evaluate
Students should be willing to     knowledge.                                          problems and solutions, critique
commit to the increased         ● Develop social studies writing skills to            decision-making, and justify informed
expectations of the course.       support communication of the results of             action.
                                  social science inquiry.                           ● Analyze multiple, complex readings
                                                                                      and source materials to promote in-
                                                                                      depth understanding of social studies
                                                                                      content knowledge.
                                                                                    ● Develop social studies writing skills to
                                                                                      support in-depth and complex
                                                                                      communication of social science
                                                                                      inquiry.

                                                             14
LIFE SCIENCE
                                    GRADE-LEVEL COURSE STUDENTS                      CHALLENGE COURSE STUDENTS
       6th GRADE
 Content Knowledge and          ●   Characterize and classify living            ●   Characterize and classify living
          Skills                    organisms.                                      organisms.
                                ●   Connect how cellular structure and          ●   Connect how cellular structure and
Grade-level and Challenge           function plays a role in how organisms          function plays a role in how organisms
courses both exceed the             are able to carry out life processes and        are able to carry out life processes and
grade-level requirements of         maintain stability for survival.                maintain stability for survival with a
the State of Missouri.          ●   Explore the interactions and                    greater emphasis on the chemical basis
                                    interdependence of living things with           of these processes.
                                    each other and their environment.           ●   Explore the interactions and
                                ●   Examine the genetic basis of life and the       interdependence of living things with
                                    role natural selection plays within             each other and their environment.
                                    populations.                                ●   Examine the genetic basis of life and the
                                ●   Meet and exceed the course                      role natural selection plays within
                                    requirements of Missouri Department of          populations.
                                    Elementary and Secondary Education.         ●   Meet and exceed the course
                                                                                    requirements of Missouri Department of
                                                                                    Elementary and Secondary Education.
             Pace               ● Learn content that is paced to allow for      ●   Learn content that is compacted for a
The speed at which new            mastery of grade-level curriculum.                faster pace to allow for more intensive
concepts are presented.                                                             and in-depth study of the curriculum.
Challenge is a faster pace.
Complexity and Difficulty        Utilize science practices throughout           Utilize science practices throughout the
                                  course content with an emphasis on              course with an emphasis on asking
Complexity is the thought         asking questions and defining problems          probing questions and designing solutions
processes the brain uses to       and guided Inquiry through hands-on             to problems and conducting inquiry-based
deal with information.            investigations.                                 investigations designed by students.
                                 Analyze and interpret data for increased       Analyze and interpret data using
Difficulty is the effort the      data literacy.                                  mathematics and computational thinking
learner must expend to           Construct evidence-based arguments.             for increased data literacy.
                                 Use informational text to gain                 Construct and revise evidence-based
accomplish the learning
                                  information and to interpret models of
objective.                                                                        arguments.
                                  processes.
                                 Complete grade-level reading and writing       Develop, evaluate, and revise models
Challenge is more complex                                                         through informational text and other
                                  assignments.
and can be more difficult.       Develop critical process skills for             types of models.
Students should be willing to     assessing issues, problem solving, and         Complete intensive reading and writing
commit to the increased           decision-making.                                assignments.
expectations of the course.                                                      Apply critical process skills as they assess
                                                                                  issues, solve problems, and make
                                                                                  decisions.
                                                                                 Develop in-depth individual and
                                                                                  collaborative projects utilizing intensive
                                                                                  research, inquiry, analysis, synthesis (such
                                                                                  as investigating research and technology
                                                                                  related to working on cures for human
                                                                                  disease.)

                                                            15
EARTH SCIENCE
                                   GRADE-LEVEL COURSE STUDENTS                        CHALLENGE COURSE STUDENTS
      7th GRADE
  Content Knowledge               Investigate the Earth’s composition as         Investigate the Earth’s composition as
      and Skills                   well as the effects that shape its surface      well as the effects that shape its surface
                                   by exploring minerals, the rock cycle,          by exploring minerals, the rock cycle,
Grade-level and                    fossils, and crustal plate movement.            fossils, and crustal plate movement.
Challenge courses both            Research connections between energy            Research connections between energy
exceed the grade-level             transformations, patterns, and the many         transformations, patterns, and the many
requirements of the State          factors that influence weather in order to      factors that influence weather in order to
of Missouri.                       make predictions from data and                  make predictions from data and
                                   observations.                                   observations.
                                  Analyze relationships between various          Analyze relationships between various
                                   science principles to better understand         science principles to better understand
                                   the Universe solar system, and Earth’s          the Universe solar system, and Earth’s
                                   role.                                           role.
                                  Meet and exceed the course                     Meet and exceed the course requirements
                                   requirements of Missouri Department of          of Missouri Department of Elementary
                                   Elementary and Secondary Education.             and Secondary Education.
           Pace                   Learn content that is paced to allow for       Learn content that is compacted for a
 The speed at which new            mastery of grade-level curriculum.              faster pace to allow for more intensive
 concepts are presented.                                                           and in-depth study of the curriculum.
Challenge is a faster pace.
    Complexity and              Utilize science practices throughout the         Utilize science practice to ask probing
      Difficulty                 course with an emphasis on asking                 questions and design solutions to
                                 questions and defining problems.                  problems.
Complexity is the thought       Conduct guided Inquiry through hands-on          Conduct Inquiry-based investigations
processes the brain uses         investigations.                                   designed by students.
to deal with information.       Analyzing and interpreting data for              Analyze and interpret data using
                                 increased data literacy.                          mathematics and computational thinking
Difficulty is the effort the    Constructing evidence-based arguments             for increased data literacy.
learner must expend to          Using informational text to gain                 Utilize and research science
accomplish the learning          information and to interpret models of            instrumentation to better understand and
objective.                       processes.                                        predict weather.
                                Complete grade-level reading and writing         Construct and revise evidence-based
Challenge is more
                                 assignments.                                      arguments.
complex and can be more
                                Develop critical process skills for assessing    Develop, evaluate, and revise models
difficult. Students should
                                 issues, problem solving, and decision-            through informational text and other
be willing to commit to
                                 making.                                           types of models.
the increased
                                                                                  Complete intensive reading and writing
expectations of the
                                                                                   assignments.
course.
                                                                                  Apply critical process skills as they assess
                                                                                   issues, solve problems, and make
                                                                                   decisions.
                                                                                  Engage in in-Depth individual and
                                                                                   collaborative projects utilizing intensive
                                                                                   research, inquiry, analysis, synthesis.

                                                                16
PHYSICAL SCIENCE
                                  GRADE-LEVEL COURSE STUDENTS                     CHALLENGE COURSE STUDENTS
      8th GRADE
  Content Knowledge            Explore the properties of matter,              Explore the properties of matter,
      and Skills                Conservation of Matter, Kinetic Theory,         Conservation of Matter, Kinetic Theory,
                                periodic trends, models of atoms and            periodic structure and trends, models of
Grade-level and                 molecules, and changes in the states of         atoms and molecules, Atomic Theory, and
Challenge courses both          matter.                                         changes in the states of matter.
exceed the grade-level         Investigate various forms of energy.           Apply concepts they learn as they model
requirements of the State      Inquire about how forces affect the             through constructing Lewis Dot Diagrams.
of Missouri.                    position and motion of an object by            Gain understanding of gas laws and
                                exploring Newton’s Laws of Motion and           density through modeling, investigating,
                                the how machines affect the work done.          and interpreting mathematical
                               Meet and exceed the course                      relationships.
                                requirements of Missouri Department of         Explore the transformation and
                                Elementary and Secondary Education.             conservation of various forms of energy
                                                                                and investigate the kinetic and potential
                                                                                energy.
                                                                               Evaluate interactions between force and
                                                                                motion in mechanical systems by
                                                                                investigating Newton’s Laws of Motion;
                                                                                analyzing the relationship among work,
                                                                                power, and efficiency in terms of the
                                                                                effect of machines; and explore the Law of
                                                                                Conservation of Momentum to predict the
                                                                                outcome of collisions.
                                                                               Analyze the relationship between forces
                                                                                and fluids.
                                                                               Explore the different types of chemical
                                                                                bonds, chemical reactions and factors that
                                                                                affect reactivity. Students will apply what
                                                                                they know to predict products of a
                                                                                chemical reaction and to balance chemical
                                                                                equations.
                                                                               Meet and exceed the course requirements
                                                                                of Missouri Department of Elementary
                                                                                and Secondary Education.

          Pace                    Learn content that is paced to allow for      Learn content that is compacted for a
                                   mastery of grade-level curriculum.             faster pace to allow for more intensive
The speed at which new                                                            and in-depth study of the curriculum.
concepts are presented.
Challenge is a faster pace.

    Complexity and                Utilize science practices throughout          Utilize science practices throughout the
      Difficulty                   course content with an emphasis on             course with an emphasis on: asking
                                   asking questions and defining problems         probing questions and designing
Complexity is the thought
                                   and guided Inquiry through hands-on            solutions to problems.
processes the brain uses           investigation.                                Conduct inquiry-based investigations
to deal with information.         Conduct data collection, metric                designed by students.
                                   measurements and conversions.

                                                              17
Difficulty is the effort the      Analyze and interpret data for              Conduct data collection, metric
learner must expend to             increased data literacy.                     measurements and conversions.
accomplish the learning           Learn using a conceptual approach with      Analyze and interpret data using
objective.                         incorporation of some mathematical           mathematics and computational thinking
Challenge is more                  formulas and calculations.                   for increased data literacy and deeper
complex and can be more           Construct evidence-based arguments.          understanding of the science concepts.
difficult. Students should        Use informational text to gain              Construct, revise, and communicate
be willing to commit to            information and to interpret models of       evidence-based arguments.
the increased                      processes.                                  Diagram (i.e. Bohr’s model of an atom),
expectations of the               Utilize models to represent scientific       develop, evaluate, and revise models
course.                            relationships and patterns.                  through informational text and other
                                  Complete grade-level reading and             types of models to demonstrate
                                   writing assignments.                         understanding.
                                  Develop critical process skills for         Complete intensive reading and writing
                                   assessing issues, problem solving, and       assignments.
                                   decision-making.                            Apply critical process skills as they assess
                                                                                issues, solve problems, and make
                                                                                decisions.
                                                                               Engage in in-Depth individual and
                                                                                collaborative projects utilizing intensive
                                                                                research, inquiry, analysis, synthesis.

                                                             18
________ MIDDLE         SCHOOL PROGRAM________

                                                SIXTH GRADE

6TH GRADE

   Language Arts (Sixth Grade Language Arts Block, Sixth Grade Challenge Language Arts Block,
                  Sixth Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts/Academic Stretch Block)

   Math (Math 6, Integrated Math 6/7)

   Science (Sixth Grade Life Science, Sixth Grade Challenge Life Science)

  Social Studies (Sixth Grade World History, Sixth Grade Challenge World History)

   Physical Education/Health

       ELECTIVE PROGRAM: (Full-Year Courses)

               Sixth Grade Treble Choir

               Sixth Grade Mixed Choir

               Sixth Grade Beginning Band

               Sixth Grade Intermediate Orchestra

       EXPLORATORY PROGRAM: (Quarter Courses)

               Sixth Grade Art

               Sixth Grade Design

               Sixth Grade Introduction to Theatre Arts

               Sixth Grade Exploring FACS Life Skills

               Sixth Grade Digital Ignition

               Sixth Grade STEM Explorations

               Sixth Grade Introduction to French

               Sixth Grade Introduction to Spanish

                                                          19
________ SIXTH-GRADE            CURRICULUM ________
SIXTH GRADE LANGUAGE ARTS BLOCK                                                                  Full Year

Course Numbers: MLA00023 (1st Sem.) & MLA00024 (2nd Sem.)

The 6th grade language arts block will continue to develop reading, writing, information literacy, and listening and
speaking skills. Students will use metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more
complex material, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry and drama. Students will use the writing process in order to
create effective paragraphs. Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of Quality Writing. Vocabulary instruction and
word awareness will be embedded in the reading and writing processes. Students will further develop media
literacy skills, use of the research process, and their ability to evaluate both the relevance and reliability of
information gathered. Formal and informal speaking and discussion will be further promoted, as will listening for
information. Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for future years of study.

SIXTH GRADE CHALLENGE LANGUAGE ARTS BLOCK                                                        Full Year

Course Numbers: MLA00029 (1st Sem.) & MLA00030 (2nd Sem.)

The challenge curriculum is designed to meet the needs of those students with strong reading, writing and
organizational skills. It is recommended that students read independently at a 7th grade reading level or higher.
The curriculum will emphasize reading, writing, information literacy, and listening and speaking skills. Students will
use metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more complex material, including
fiction, non-fiction, poetry and drama. Students will use the writing process in order to create effective paragraphs.
Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of Quality Writing. Vocabulary instruction and word awareness will be
embedded in the reading and writing processes. Students will further develop media literacy skills, use of the
research process, and their ability to evaluate both the relevance and reliability of information gathered. Formal
and informal speaking and discussion opportunities will be further promoted, as will listening for information.
Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for future years of study.

                                                          20
SIXTH GRADE COMPACTED CHALLENGE LANGUAGE ARTS                                                     Full Year

Course Numbers: MLA00041 (1st Sem.) & MLA00042 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Identified Gifted students who meet Board of Education approved criteria.

6th grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts is scheduled in conjunction with Academic Stretch. As such, it meets
on alternating school days and is only offered to students identified as gifted. Because less time is available to cover
compacted challenge language arts objectives, the pace of instruction in Compacted Challenge Language Arts is
accelerated. It is highly recommended that students entering this course have advanced writing skills and read at or
above the 7th grade reading level. Students will use metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend
increasingly complex material, including fiction and non-fiction; students will read and analyze a variety of
advanced-level materials, including fiction, non-fiction, drama and poetry. Students will use the writing process in
order to create well-developed paragraphs and multi-paragraph pieces. Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of
Quality Writing. Vocabulary and word awareness will be taught through the reading and writing processes.
Students will further develop media literacy skills, use of the research process and their ability to evaluate both the
relevance and reliability of information gathered. Formal and informal speaking and discussion opportunities will be
further promoted, as will listening for information. Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for
future years of study.

SIXTH GRADE ACADEMIC STRETCH                                                                      Full Year

Course Numbers: MLA00043 (1st Sem.) & MLA00044 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Identified Gifted students who meet Board of Education approved criteria.

Academic Stretch is the middle school component of the Rockwood Gifted Program. This component is offered in
grades six through eight for students who meet district criteria for the gifted program. Academic Stretch is offered
in conjunction with Compacted Challenge Language Arts (see above) and enables students to engage in
interdisciplinary, thematic studies that focus on real-world issues and challenges. These challenges involve
advanced-level content and open-ended investigations within the broad areas of change, survival and the nature of
systems. Forensics, inventions, natural disasters and the stock market are examples of specific units that are studied.
All units in this program are designed to promote active student engagement in learning and developing skills in
critical and creative thinking, information processing, problem-solving, communication and leadership. Time
management strategies, current events, literature, high-end technology, community resources and service projects
are also incorporated into the Academic Stretch curriculum, as are skills and concepts taught in Compacted
Challenge Language Arts classes.

                                                          21
MATH 6                                                                                            Full Year

Course Numbers: MMA00080 (1st Sem.) & MMA00081 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Completion of Fifth Grade Math

Math 6 provides the foundation for middle school mathematics. Instruction will focus on six critical areas: (1)
completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the system of rational numbers to include negative
numbers; (2) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and
rate to solve problems; (3) writing and evaluating algebraic expressions; (4) writing and solving one-step equation
and inequalities; (5) developing understanding of relationships among shapes to determine area, surface area, and
volume and (6) developing understanding of statistical thinking by analyzing and displaying data distributions.

INTEGRATED MATH 6/7                                                                               Full Year

Course Numbers: MMA00090 (1st Sem.) & MMA00091 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Students must be recommended for Integrated Math 6/7 through the challenge placement
recommendation process or complete the Ramp-Up to Math 6/7 the summer before enrollment.

Math 6/7 is an accelerated course that merges Math 6 and part of Math 7 skills and concepts. Instruction will focus
on eight critical areas: (1) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the system of rational
numbers to include negative numbers; (2) develop an understanding of absolute value to solve problems involving
integers; (3) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and
rate to solve problems; (4) developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships; (5) writing and
evaluating algebraic expressions; (6) writing and solving one-step inequalities and multi-step equations; (7)
developing understanding of relationships among shapes to determine area, surface area, and volume and (8)
developing understanding of statistical thinking by analyzing and displaying data distributions.

SIXTH GRADE LIFE SCIENCE                                                                          Full Year

Course Numbers: MSC00015 (1st Sem.) & MSC00016 (2nd Sem.)

Life Science is a study of how organisms live, grow, and respond to their environment. Students will be able to
explain how organisms interact with other organisms in the physical environment to obtain matter and energy.
Students will learn to construct scientific explanations about the role of photosynthesis in the transfer of energy and
cycling of matter and how these processes relate to growth and survival of organisms as well as their interactions
with other living and nonliving parts of the ecosystem. Students will also use engineering practices and models to
begin to develop an understanding of inheritance and variation of traits. They will also formulate answers as to how
genetic variation among organisms in a species affects survival/reproduction and how environmental factors can
influence genetic traits over time.

                                                          22
SIXTH GRADE CHALLENGE LIFE SCIENCE                                                                Full Year

Course Numbers: MSC00017 (1st Sem.) & MSC00018 (2nd Sem.)

Life Science is a study of how organisms live, grow, and respond to their environment. Students will be able to
explain how organisms interact with other organisms in the physical environment to obtain matter and energy.
Students will learn to construct scientific explanations about the role of photosynthesis in the transfer of energy and
cycling of matter and how these processes relate to growth and survival of organisms as well as their interactions
with other living and nonliving parts of the ecosystem. Students will also use engineering practices and models to
begin to develop an understanding of inheritance and variation of traits. They will also formulate answers as to how
genetic variation among organisms in a species affects survival/reproduction and how environmental factors can
influence genetic traits over time.

Students will be expected to work more independently, with increased rigor, and be able to analyze more complex
multidimensional information as well as apply advanced math, literacy and technological skills.

SIXTH GRADE WORLD HISTORY                                                                         Full Year

Course Numbers: MSS00007 (1st Sem.) & MSS00008 (2nd Sem.)

World History students will explore the ancient world from Pre-History through the Middle Ages. Students will
develop social science inquiry skills including questioning, gathering and using evidence, developing claims, and
constructing arguments and explanations. Using these skills, students will learn to analyze significant historical
developments and their connection to our world today. Students will build a strong understanding of the
relationship between humans and their environment, the development of government systems, and the effect of
trade and economic decisions on societies.

SIXTH GRADE CHALLENGE WORLD HISTORY                                                                  Full Year

Course Numbers: MSS00009 (1st Sem.) & MSS00010 (2nd Sem.)

Challenge World History students will explore the ancient world from Pre-History through the Middle Ages. Students
will develop and independently apply social science inquiry skills including questioning, gathering and using
evidence, developing claims, and constructing arguments and explanations. Using these skills, students will analyze
significant historical developments and issues, and critique their connection to our world today. Students will
analyze issues, problems and solutions related to humans and their environment, government systems, and the
effect of trade on economic decision-making.

                                                          23
PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH                                                                          Full Year

Course Numbers: MPE00004 (1st Sem.) & MPE00005 (2nd Sem.)

Physical Education/Health in the 6th grade will provide students the opportunity to learn and practice a variety of
fundamental movement skills while participating in various games, team and individual/lifetime sports, as well as
team building activities. Primary focus will be on skill development and application in games. Character education
traits will be incorporated throughout the class. Physical fitness will be emphasized through the teaching of the
principles of health and skill-related fitness. Health topics will be integrated throughout the course and will include
nutrition, an overview of body systems, the endocrine system, diseases, personal hygiene, and tobacco use and
abuse.

                                                           24
________ SIXTH      GRADE ELECTIVE PROGRAM ________
SIXTH GRADE TREBLE CHOIR                                                                           Full Year

Course Numbers: MMU00017 (1st Sem.) & MMU00018 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Director approval

Note: Students may be asked to audition for placement in correct ensemble.

Treble Choir is a full-year performance course designed to introduce fundamentals of music and the skills required
for effective ensemble singing. Students will rehearse and perform level-appropriate two-part choral
literature. Attendance at all performances is required and a part of the class grade as stated in the Rockwood
School District Concert Performance Expectations document. The voicings for this choir are Soprano and Alto.

SIXTH GRADE MIXED CHOIR                                                                            Full Year

Course Numbers: MMU00023 (1st Sem.) & MMU00024 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Director approval

Note: Students may be asked to audition for placement in correct ensemble.

Mixed Choir is a full-year performance course designed to introduce fundamentals of music and the skills required
for effective ensemble singing. Students will rehearse and perform level-appropriate two-part choral
literature. Attendance at all performances is required and a part of the class grade as stated in the Rockwood
School District Concert Performance Expectations document. The voicings for this choir are Soprano and Alto.
Baritone voicing may be utilized, as appropriate.

SIXTH GRADE BEGINNING BAND                                                                         Full Year

Course Numbers: MMU00029 (1st Sem.) & MMU00030 (2nd Sem.)

Beginning Band is a student’s entry into the Rockwood Band Program. A student interested in playing in a school
band should start in the 6th grade. Students who don’t take beginning band must demonstrate their competency in
an audition for the instructor to participate in band following the 6th grade year. This course is designed for students
interested in beginning-level instruction on flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, French horn,
trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion instruments (orchestra bells, xylophone, snare drum, bass drum, and
other percussion accessory instruments). Students will receive instruction on tone production, music-reading skills,
basic music theory, and instrument care. Attendance at all performances is required and part of the class grade as
covered in the Rockwood School District Attendance Procedure for Secondary Music Programs.

Students must provide their own instrument, book, and supplies.

                                                           25
SIXTH GRADE INTERMEDIATE ORCHESTRA                                                             Full Year

Course Numbers: MMU00035 (1st Sem.) & MMU00036 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: 5th Grade Orchestra or evidence of equivalent training satisfactory to the instructor.

The training provided in 5th Grade Orchestra continues in this course. Students receive instruction in music-reading
skills, production of a good tone, bowing, and left-hand techniques. Attendance at all performances is required and
part of the class grade as covered in the Rockwood School District Attendance Procedure for Secondary Music
Programs.

Students must provide their own instrument, book, and supplies.

                                                         26
________ SIXTH      GRADE EXPLORATORY PROGRAM ________
SIXTH GRADE ART                                                                           Quarter Course

Course Number: MAR00007

Engage in a hands on experience where you’ll experiment with a variety of art materials that may include drawing,
painting, mixed media, printmaking, sculpture, photography, digital media, and more. Be free to take risks in art
making, explore new art processes, and discover creative ways to express your interest in art.

SIXTH GRADE DESIGN                                                                        Quarter Course

Course Number: MAR00008

Be a unique and innovative thinker! Explore and find solutions to create original designs that connect your big ideas
to real world experiences. Design processes may include use of technology, drafting, mixed media, choice-based
methods, and more. Leave class as an empathetic, divergent thinker who takes risks and is ready for the creative
economy.

SIXTH GRADE INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE ARTS                                                  Quarter Course

Course Number: MDR00005

Through activities involving movement, improv, storytelling, voice, and performance, students will learn the basics
of theatre and acting. Using their imaginations to make artistic choices, students will develop strategies to
collaborate, memorize and problem solve. Evaluations are based primarily on performances/projects.

SIXTH GRADE EXPLORING FACS LIFE SKILLS                                                    Quarter Course

Course Number: MFC00010

This exploratory course for Sixth Grade students is designed to introduce students to the subject of Family and
Consumer Sciences. Students will develop introductory food preparation skills while preparing simple recipes.
Essential skills are focused on kitchen safety and sanitation, lab procedures, and measuring techniques. Construction
of a creative sewing project exposes students to small sewing equipment, sewing machine parts and functions,
sewing safety, and sewing terminology. All of the course activities will emphasize teamwork in an interactive
environment.

                                                         27
SIXTH GRADE DIGITAL IGNITION                                                                 Quarter Course

Course Number: MBS00010

Dive into the digital world. Students will experience a variety of computer programs in this 9-week course. After a
brief keyboarding review, students will learn how to navigate in both a Microsoft Office and Google environment.
Students will create digital presentations while learning basic formatting and design skills. Students will also produce
a variety of multimedia products using video, audio and graphic design. The course concludes with project
presentations.

SIXTH GRADE STEM EXPLORATIONS                                                                Quarter Course

Course Number: MIT00007

In this course, students will explore various aspects of STEM. Students will learn the basics of 3D modeling and printing,
use the design process to collaboratively solve problems through fun projects, and be introduced to computer
programming through game design. This course provides a preview of future STEM opportunities available in 7 th and
8th grade.

SIXTH GRADE INTRODUCTION TO FRENCH                                                           Quarter Course

Course Number: MFL00007

Introduction to French offers the student an overview of French language and culture. It covers basic vocabulary,
basic expressions, and cultural information. Ideally, the course is designed to help a student determine which World
Language to pursue in future studies.

SIXTH GRADE INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH                                                          Quarter Course

Course Number: MFL00009

Introduction to Spanish offers the student an overview of Spanish language and culture. It covers basic vocabulary,
basic expressions, and cultural information. Ideally, the course is designed to help a student determine which World
Language to pursue in future studies.

                                                           28
_______ MIDDLE      SCHOOL PROGRAM________

                                              SEVENTH GRADE
SEVENTH GRADE CURRICULUM

Language Arts (Seventh Grade Language Arts Block, Seventh Grade Challenge Language Arts Block,
              Seventh Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts/Academic Stretch Block)

Math (Math 7, Integrated Math 7/8)

Science (Seventh Grade Earth and Space Science, Seventh Grade Challenge Earth and Space Science)

Social Studies (Seventh Grade World Geography, Seventh Grade Challenge World Geography)

Physical Education/Health

       ELECTIVE PROGRAM: (Full-Year Courses)

       Seventh Grade Treble Choir

       Seventh Grade Mixed Choir

       Seventh Grade Cadet Band

       Seventh Grade Cadet Orchestra

       Seventh Grade French 1

       Seventh Grade Spanish 1

       EXPLORATORY PROGRAM: (Semester Courses)

       Seventh Grade Ignite Business Design

       Seventh Grade FACS Life Skills 1

       Seventh Grade 3D Design and Modeling

       Seventh Grade Computer Science 1: App and Game Development

       Seventh Grade Art

       Seventh Grade Design

       Seventh Grade Theatre Arts Workshop

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