Middle School Planning Guide 2018-19 by Elmbrook Schools

TABLE OF CONTENTS School District of Elmbrook Mission and Vision

Course Fees

Section One - Middle School Planning Guide Procedure and Time Table for Programming and Changes Grading Scale for Middle School Math Course Progressions and Recommended Criteria for Grade 8 Math Classes District Middle School: Non-Course Fees

Section Two - 6th Grade Course Offerings 6th Grade Required Daily Course Descriptions 6th Grade Alternating Days (A/B) Required Course Descriptions 6th Grade Required Quarter Course Descriptions

Section Three - 7th Grade Course Offerings 7th Grade Required Daily Course Descriptions 7th Grade Alternating Days (A/B) Required Course Descriptions 7th Grade Elective Courses - Alternating Days (A/B) Course Descriptions

Section Four - 8th Grade Course Offerings 8th Grade Required Daily Course Descriptions 8th Grade Alternating Days (A/B) Required Course Descriptions 8th Grade Daily Elective Course Descriptions 8th Grade Elective Courses - Alternating Days (A/B) Course Descriptions

SCHOOL DISTRICT OF ELMBROOK MIDDLE SCHOOL PLANNING GUIDE Pilgrim Park Middle School and Wisconsin Hills Middle School offer a comprehensive program designed to meet the needs and interests of students in grades 6th-8th. Required courses provide a basic academic program for all students. Provisions are made for all students to take elective courses of their choice. Students may also participate in extracurricular programs including athletics, music, drama, and forensics, as well as special interest clubs. ELMBROOK SCHOOLS Dr. Mark Hansen - Superintendent Central Administrative Offices 13780 Hope Street, P.O. Box 1830 Brookfield, WI 53008-1830 262-781-3030

PILGRIM PARK MIDDLE SCHOOL Mr. Mark Peperkorn - Principal Mrs. Deanna Wellens - Associate Principal 1500 Pilgrim Parkway Elm Grove, WI 53122 262-785-3920

WISCONSIN HILLS MIDDLE SCHOOL Mrs. Lisa Rettler - Principal Mr. Chad Sova - Associate Principal 18700 West Wisconsin Avenue Brookfield, WI 53045 262-785-3960

MISSION & VISION STATEMENTS OF THE SCHOOL DISTRICT OF ELMBROOK

District Middle School: Course Fees 2018-2019 School Year Required Registration Fees:

Description of Fee

Registration - Material

$65.00

The registration fee will help defray a portion of the cost of textbooks, workbooks, current events magazines and other consumable supplies and materials for classroom instruction. Refunds: $16.25 for each quarter not in attendance. No fees will be refunded in the last quarter.

Registration - Technology

$18.00

The technology fee will help defray a portion of the cost of technology supplies. Refunds: $4.50 for each quarter not in attendance. No fees will be refunded in the last quarter.

Co-Curricular District Fees - Optional Participation:

Description of Fee

Student Fees - Music (Band, Chorus, Orch) per class

$10.00

User Fee: Athletics (one or more sport)

$50.00

User Fee: Music/Drama ($45/event - $90 max)

$45.00

User Fee: Solo/Ensemble (one or more)

$45.00

Point of Sale

The student fee for music will be used to defray a portion of the cost of supplies for the classes. Refunds: $2.50 for each quarter not in attendance. No fees will be refunded in the last quarter User fees may be paid at the beginning of the year or within five days after the start of the activity.

Description of Fee

Padlock - Hall Locker or Gym Locker

$5.00 each

2 Locks required for 6th grade; if a student needs a new lock; any new 7th or 8th graders

Assignment Notebook

$3.00$4.00

Required for all students

Goggles

$3.00

Required for all 6th graders and any new 7th and 8th graders

Work Permit

$10.00

Optional

Lost ID

$5.00

Optional

Non-Sufficient Fund Returned Check Service Charge

$20.00

Examples of other Variable Non-Course Fees: Lost Uniform

Library Fees

Lost Textbook Fee

Field Trips

*See course descriptions for additional course fees

Middle School Planning Guide To Parents and Students The courses you choose to take in middle school and high school determine in part your qualification to enter post-secondary school education and/or the employment market. Please keep this in mind as you make your selections. Your teachers and school counselors will assist you in preparing a program by helping you to identify your strengths and opportunities for growth as well as your particular needs and interests.

Procedures and Time Table for Programming and Changes Students receive course selection material for the next school year at the beginning of second semester. Parents and students are urged to familiarize themselves with basic requirements, review course descriptions, and be alert to prerequisites. Students and parents may direct questions regarding specific courses to teachers and counselors. A variety of factors are considered in determining each student's house placement. Each house is made up of a heterogeneous group of students with a range of learning needs. Parents may submit information in writing regarding their son or daughter which might help with the selection of house placement or the general scheduling of their child to their school counselor by April 1st. Specific requests for houses/teachers will not be honored. Parents and students are asked to list elective choices and alternates. Every attempt is made to give students their first choices; however, students may be scheduled into alternate choices if conflicts occur. Please choose your elective classes carefully. Teachers are assigned elective classes according to the number of students choosing their class. It is very difficult to make changes after this has taken place, as teacher assignments must be made before the school year begins. The only way an elective class can be changed is if there is space available and if the change does not cause another class to be canceled.

Grading Scale for Middle School The following grading scale shall be used in the Elmbrook Middle Schools: Grade

Scale 1

Scale 2

Percent Range

Explanation

93-100

Consistently demonstrates an excellent understanding of content standards

85-92

Consistently demonstrates a good understanding of content standards

77-84

Consistently demonstrates a fair understanding of content standards

70-76

Does not demonstrate consistent understanding of most content standards

Less than 70

Does not demonstrate understanding of most content standards

I = Incomplete which is a temporary grade until A, B, C, D, or F is assigned Scales 1 and 2 can also be used for rubric scoring. There is no difference between the grade equivalent and the two scoring systems. Because both scales are currently being used, the scales remain available even though they are similar in result. A four point scale is available for those who choose to use 0’s as a grading practice. The scale equalized the impact and results in a more accurate reflection of student progress.

Math Sequence and Recommended Criteria for Grade 8 Math Classes Course Progression

Grade 5

Grade 6

Grade 7

Grade 8

Standard Math Progression

Math 5

Math 6

Math 7

Pre-Algebra or Algebra

Accelerated Math Progression

Math 5

Math 7

Pre-Algebra

Algebra

Math 5 and Math 6

Pre-Algebra

Algebra

Honors Geometry

Double Accelerated Math Progression via Talent Development Handbook

The recommendation for a student’s eighth grade math course is based on standardized assessment data and class performance data from the student’s seventh grade math class. Considerations to inform decision making include the following: ● Grade 7 Math MAP fall RIT score of 235+ is typical for a student moving to Algebra in 8th grade ● Semester report card grades (consistent A’s typical for Algebra) ● Level of independence working through math problems ● Teacher input and comments regarding math classroom performance For more information on each of the math courses offered at the middle school, please see the grade level planning section of this guide.

Recommended Criteria for Accelerated Math Coursework: Math 7 (taken as a 6th grade student) ● Grade 5 MAP Fall RIT score of 230 or above ● Grade 5 math MAP fall RIT percentile (90% ile is typical for Math 7) ○ Take into consideration trend in MAP performance throughout your child’s elementary experience ● Report card feedback in the Exceeds range ● Perseverance in working through challenging math problems ● Teacher feedback and comments indicating strong math classroom performance

Algebra (Taken before 8th grade) ● Recommendation from Pre-Algebra teacher and/or successful completion of Pre-Algebra ● Students new to the district must have completed a course comparable to Pre-Algebra and complete additional testing as determined by the placement team

Pre-Algebra (taken as a 6th grade student) ● Must have met Double Acceleration Criteria per Talent Development Handbook ● Has been formally identified as gifted ● Has had an accelerated math experience in grade 5 ● Has a recommendation from the elementary Teaching and Learning Specialist based on the student’s performance in the accelerated math course.

Geometry Honors (taken before 8th grade) ● Recommendation from Algebra teacher and/or successful completion of Algebra ● Students new to the district must have completed a high school level algebra course and/or complete additional testing as determined by the placement team

Pre-Algebra (taken as a 7th grade student) ● Recommendation from Math 7 teacher and/or successful completion of Math 7

6th Grade Course Offerings Required Courses ● ● ● ● ● ●

Language Arts Math 6 or Math 7 Science Social Studies Enrichment 6 (2 days/week) Choices and Wellness (2 days/week)

Required Alternating Days (A/B) Courses Music (3 Choices) ● Band ● Chorus ● Stings Physical Education

Required Quarter Courses ● ● ● ●

Health Science & Wellness Innovators & Makers Technology, Engineering & Manufacturing Studio Art

6th Grade Daily Required Course Descriptions Course Name: Choices and Wellness 6 Course Number: 1706 Length of Course: Year long - two class periods per week Prerequisite(s): None Students will develop a greater sense of respect and responsibility with various topics regarding life choices and wellness. This course includes the Human Growth and Development curriculum. Academic and Career Planning lessons are also completed during the course.

Course Name: Enrichment 6 Course Number: 8014 Length of Course: Two class periods per week Prerequisite(s): None Students will be designing a project based activity pursuing topics of their interest/passion. Students will be designing their own learning experience(s). They will explore personal interests through purposeful research and study, culminating in a final product. As a part of the process, students will have an opportunity to share their learning with staff, peers, and the community. Students will have access to teachers for guidance and conferring throughout the learning process and teachers will monitor student progress. Each student will complete a minimum of one project each year. Student progress will be monitored through a rubric based on critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communication along with International Society for Technology in Education Standards.

Course Name: Language Arts 6 Course Number: 1806 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): 5th Grade Language Arts

Course Name: Math 6 Course Number: 2206 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): 5th Grade Math

Sixth grade Language Arts focuses on the development of students as readers and authors by having them engage with the following genres: personal narrative, persuasive essay, literary argumentative essay, research-based informational writing, poetry. Reading instruction emphasizes the application of reading strategies to comprehend a variety of texts. Writing instructions focuses on the writing process, as well as the appropriate use of vocabulary, grammar, usage, and mechanics in their writing and speech.

In this course students will use ratios to find unit rates, convert measurements and find a percent, apply properties to multiply and divide multi-digit decimals and fractions, locate rational numbers on a coordinate plane, find the distance between the points on a coordinate plane, write and solve expressions, apply formulas to find surface area and volume, draw polygons on a coordinate plane, and collect, display, analyze and summarize data. Communication (both written and oral), connections, problem solving, reasoning abstractly and quantitatively, construction of viable arguments, and real life problems are also integral parts of each lesson.

Course Name: Math 7 Course Number: 2207 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Math 5th and 6th grade

Course Name: Science 6 Course Number: 1406 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): 5th Grade Science Required Course Fee: $3.00

In this course students will analyze proportional relationships, apply and extend previous understandings of rational numbers, apply properties to solve multi-step algebraic expressions and equations, describe geometric figures and relationships between them, apply angle measures, area, surface area and volume, draw inferences about a population using random samples, compare inferences about two populations and make informal inferences about them, investigate, determine, model and justify problems involving probability. Communication (both written and oral), connections, problem solving, reasoning abstractly and quantitatively, construct viable arguments, and real life problems are also integral parts of each lesson.

The emphasis for the sixth grade science program is based on inquiry, design thinking, engineering principles and the presentation of scientific principles as it relates to the students ever changing world. The students will explore and experience a variety of areas within the field of science including: Earth systems (weather), Electricity/Magnetism, Space and Ecology through the use of reading, research, observation, technology, discussion and projects. All units will include problem solving, data collection, analysis and interpretation of data, and real-life application.

Course Name: Social Studies 6 Course Number: 1506 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $5.00 The sixth grade social studies program focuses on the relationship of the past to the present and how the past affects our lives today. The geography of each cultural region is studied to determine how it affected the civilization’s development. Their governments, economy, and way of life are examined to see how they affected the way these civilizations grew. In addition, their legacies are explored to determine how they continue to influence the world today. Units covered include: Mesopotamia, Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

6th Grade Alternating Days (A/B) Required Course Descriptions All 6th grade students are required to take one of the Performance Groups (Band, Orchestra, or Chorus). Students may elect to take two of the Performance Groups that will then be shared within the assigned time block. Course Name: Band 6 Course Number: 7006 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None

Course Name: Chorus 6 Course Number: 7016 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Love of music and signing

This course is open to all students who currently play woodwind, brass, or percussion instruments. Percussionists need to own or rent a percussion kit with bells. Parents are cautioned to purchase only name brand instruments from a reputable music dealer. There are two major performances for this group each school year. Band meets on an alternating day schedule and students receive one half-period sectional every sixth school day. Attendance is required at all performances. Students with no previous band experience may choose only from flute, clarinet, French horn, trumpet, baritone, and trombone. Contact the band director for more information and before selecting an instrument.

Course Name: Physical Education 6 Course Number: 1306 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None

Course Name: Strings/Orchestra 6 Course Number: 7026 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Students beginning a new instrument need the consent of the instructor

In this course students will be introduced to a variety of activities that will focus on fitness, practice introductory skills, and develop self-sufficiency and social interaction. Students will have the opportunity to be active in 3 primary units: Cooperatives, Fitness Development, and Motor Skills and Movement Patterns.

This course is open to all students who currently play violin, viola, cello, or bass. This orchestra consists of beginning to intermediate level of students who study and perform music of all styles and periods. Significant effort toward the advancement of both individual and ensemble techniques is the focus of this ensemble; the demonstration of musical growth over the course of the year is expected through study and individual practice. For beginning students, it is highly recommended that your child sign-up for group or private lessons during the summer before coming to school in the fall, Parents are cautioned to rent or purchase only name brand instruments from a reputable music dealers. These dealers should have an in-store repair department to avoid difficulty in obtaining replacement parts as well as other instrument related problems. Contact the orchestra director for more information. Orchestra meets on an alternating day schedule and includes one half period sectional every sixth school day. Participation in concerts, in-school dress rehearsals and mass rehearsals is mandatory.

6th Grade Required Quarter Course Descriptions Course Name: Health Science and Wellness 6 Course Number: 5006 Length of Course: One Quarter Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $40.00 Students will develop a greater sense of respect and responsibility with various topics regarding healthy living and personal wellness. The importance of healthy diet and fitness will be explored, and students will have the opportunity to receive their American Red Cross babysitting certification. This course includes the district’s 6th grade Human Growth and Development curriculum.

Course Name: Studio Art 6 Course Number: 3006 Length of Course: One Quarter Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $15.00 This hands-on art class allows students to explore art and design’s essential role in society and personalize their own artmaking experience through a variety of 2D and 3D art media (collage, painting, fibers, sculpture, ceramics, etc.). All art courses focus on engaging students in critical thinking, collaboration, reflection, and developing creativity and problem-solving skills. Students are provided a fun and relaxing environment to learn and develop these important 21st century skills.

Course Name: Innovators and Makers 6 Course Number: 4006 Length of Course: One Quarter Prerequisite(s): None This course will allow students to discover computer science concepts and skills by creating personally relevant, tangible, and shareable projects. Throughout the course, students will learn about programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development. They will design and develop a physical computing device, interactive art installation, and plan and develop code for microcontrollers that bring their physical designs to life. Physical computing projects will promote student awareness of interactive systems and broaden their understanding of abstract computer science concepts through meaningful and authentic applications.

Course Name: Technology, Engineering and Manufacturing 6 Course Number: 2106 Length of Course: One Quarter Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $10.00 This course asks students to create, design, build and discover! Students are introduced to and use a design thinking process to solve problems. Students use industry standard 3D modeling software to create virtual images of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their creative solutions. Students will bring the design process full circle when they build or create the projects they have designed.

7th Grade Course Offerings Required Courses Language Arts Math 7 or Pre-Algebra Science Social Studies Enrichment 7 (2 days/week) Choices and Wellness (2 days/week)

Required Alternating Days (A/B) Courses Physical Education

Elective Courses - Year Long/Alternating (A/B) Students choose 3 year long alternating courses as Physical Education counts as the 4th alternating course. Applied Technology and Engineering (A.T.E.) ● Engineering, Design and Modeling 7 Art ●

Studio Art 7

Computers ● MyDigitalLife 7 Family and Consumer Science (FCS) ● Food Foreign Language ● French ● German ● Spanish ● Latin Music ● Band ● Chorus ● Orchestra *Factors that impact elective offerings include school enrollment, student choices, and availability of the course itself. When choosing elective courses, it is necessary for students to keep in mind alternate choices because class availability may determine their final program. Need three elective courses.

7th Grade Daily Required Course Descriptions Course Name: Choices and Wellness 7 Course Number: 1707 Length of Course: Two class periods per week Prerequisite(s): None

Course Name: Enrichment 7 Course Number: 8014 Length of Course: Two class periods per week Prerequisite(s): None

Students will develop a greater sense of respect and responsibility with various topics regarding life choices and wellness. This course includes the Human Growth and Development curriculum. Academic and Career Planning lessons are also completed during the course.

Students will be designing a project based activity pursuing topics of their interest/passion. Students will be designing their own learning experience(s). They will explore personal interests through purposeful research and study, culminating in a final product. As a part of the process, students will have an opportunity to share their learning with staff, peers, and the community. Students will have access to teachers for guidance and conferring throughout the learning process and teachers will monitor student progress. Each student will complete a minimum of one project each year. Student progress will be monitored through a rubric based on critical thinking, collaboration, creativity, and communication along with International Society for Technology in Education Standards.

Course Name: Language Arts 7 Course Number: 1807 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): 6th Grade Language Arts

Course Name: Math 7 Course Number: 2207 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Math 6

Seventh grade Language Arts emphasizes a rigorous approach of the integration of reading and writing strategies to develop students as authors by having them engage with the following genres: realistic fiction, historical documentary, research-based argumentative essay, literary analysis, poetry, and memoir. Students will further develop proficiency in organizing ideas, elaborating, improving sentence fluency, increasing word choice, and the use of conventions.

In this course students will analyze proportional relationships, apply and extend previous understanding of rational numbers, apply and extend previous understandings of rational numbers, apply properties to solve multi-step algebraic expressions and equations, describe geometric figures and relationships between them, apply angle measures, area, surface area and volume, draw inferences about a population using random samples, compare inferences about two populations and make informal inferences about them, investigate, determine, model and justify problems involving probability. Communication (both written and oral), connections, problem solving, reasoning abstractly and quantitatively, construction of viable arguments, and real life problems are also integral parts of each lesson.

Course Name: Pre-Algebra Course Number: 1220 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Math 7

Course Name: Science 7 Course Number: 1407 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Science 6

In this course students will solve multi-step equations,

The emphasis of the seventh grade science program is the presentation of scientific skills and content as they relate to the students’ experiences. The units of study are divided into earth science, physics, cells, and energy flow while incorporating the engineering and design process and inquiry throughout each unit.

write and graph linear equations and linear systems, compare and contrast linear functions, apply the triangle sum property, use similar triangles to solve problems, calculate and apply square and cube roots, apply the Pythagorean Theorem, construct and interpret scatterplots (including lines of best fit), choose and use appropriate data displays, apply the properties of integer exponents and scientific notation, verify and describe a sequence of transformations, and describe a sequence of transformations that create similar or congruent figures. Communication (both written and oral), connections, problem solving, reasoning abstractly and quantitatively, construction of viable arguments, and real life problems are also integral parts of each lesson.

Course Name: Social Studies 7 Course Number: 1507 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $5.00 Seventh grade social studies develops students’ critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills, while

preparing them to become civically-engaged problem-solvers who critically examine their roles in local, regional, state, national and global communities. This learning is grounded in the study of United States history from the Colonial time period through the great wave of immigration in the early 20th century. Students use textbooks, atlases and online sources to explore the various topics that will be covered. These areas will include: Colonial America, American Revolution, founding documents such as the Constitution and Bill of Rights, the early republic, the Civil War, Reconstruction, Westward Expansion, the Industrial Revolution and immigration. The objective of this course is to have students reconstruct and interpret events in United States history while building a connection to domestic and foreign affairs both past and present.

7th Grade Alternating Days (A/B) Required Course Descriptions Course Name: Physical Education 7 Course Number: 1307 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Physical Education 6 In this course students will participate in a variety of activities that will focus on fitness, practice more advanced movement forms, and develop self-sufficiency and social interaction. The major emphasis of physical education is on life-long fitness development and wellness. Concepts of leadership, teamwork, responsibility, inclusion, positive attitudes, and an increased knowledge of physical activity and its effects on the body are emphasized. Students will have the opportunity to be active in 3 primary units: Cooperatives, Fitness Concepts, and Motor Skills and Movement Patterns.

7th Grade Elective Courses - Alternating Days (A/B) Descriptions (choose three) Course Name: Band 7 Course Number: 7007 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Previous band experience or private lessons

Course Name: Chorus 7 Course Number: 7017 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Love of music and signing

7th grade band is a performance based course that explores music in a large group setting. Students will perform, compose, and record with their peers and will be audience members for many great musical moments. Students will deepen their knowledge of complex rhythms and key signatures while exploring their musical capabilities within the ensemble.

This course is open to all students who are interested in learning to use their singing voice as part of a performing ensemble. Students in all stages of vocal development are invited and encouraged to join the chorus. There are two to three major performances for this ensemble each school year along with the opportunity to participate in the WSMA solo and ensemble festival held in the spring. Chorus meets every other day and students receive one half-period sectional every sixth school day. Attendance is required at all performances.

Course Name: Engineering, Design and Modeling 7 Course Number: 2047 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $20.00

Course Name: Foods 7 Course Number: 5037 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $35.00

The 7th grade course builds upon the science, technology, engineering and math principles from 6th grade. Students use industry standard 3D modeling software to create virtual images of their designs and transfer designs to production in the lab. Students will be exploring the world of woodworking as well as learning to design, model and build a variety of projects using a range of tools and machines.

Time, time, time! Are you a busy teen? Do you ever feel as if there isn’t enough time to choose foods that keep you going, give you energy, and taste great? This is the class for you! Students will have fun preparing foods that are healthy and satisfying. Labs may include the following: tacos, fajitas, sliders, smoothies, stir fry, salads, dips, salsa’s, french toast, pancakes, muffins, and more. Have you ever planned a party or family gathering? What types of foods make that event special? You will have the opportunity to explore and prepare foods for celebrations. This class will equip you with skills to use now, in high school, in college, and on your own!

Course Name: French 7 Course Number: 6007 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None

Course Name: German 7 Course Number: 6017 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B)

Students will develop basic speaking, writing, listening and reading skills during the study of classroom survival situations (ex. May I go to the bathroom? Repeat, please.) and description of self, family and friends, school life, activities outside of school such as food, clothing, and shopping. By the end of the year, students will be able to express themselves and initiate simple conversations. Students will study language through topics and the function of language within these topics. Completing French 7 and French 8 is the equivalent of French I at the high school level.

Self, friends, family, leisure time, clothing, food, school and shopping bring German to life! These topics will introduce students to the culture and language of German-speaking countries. Students will comprehend simple classroom and daily expressions. They will be able to communicate orally using accurate pronunciation and write simple complete sentences. Students will be able to read simple passages in German. Students will be able to use both the present and future tenses, as well as nominative and accusative case forms. Completing German 7 and German 8 is the equivalent of German I at the high school level.

Course Name: Latin 7 Course Number: 6027 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None

Course Name: My Digital Life 7 Course Number: 4067 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None

The beginning Latin student will be introduced to the culture and history of the ancient civilizations through a study of the basics of the language. The first year student will build a basic vocabulary and study the essentials of grammar to foster skill in reading and comprehending fabricated Latin as well as responding orally to basic classroom management questions. The application of Latin grammar and vocabulary to English skills offers the student a practical 21st century approach to a foundational language. Cultural topics including the Roman family, children’s sports, slavery and the early Roman Republic will augment the student’s foundation in Western Civilization. Completing Latin 7 and Latin 8 is the equivalent of Latin I at the high school level.

My Digital Life 7 introduces students to the concept of media literacy by providing them with opportunities to explore a wide range of audio and video production technologies and techniques. Students work individually as well as in small teams to create a variety of projects utilizing digital video cameras, lighting, microphones, Apple hardware and software, and video production support equipment and peripherals. Software utilized in the course will introduce students to storyboarding, video editing; digital effects; image manipulation; audio production; electronic music; green screen; and stop motion animation.

Course Name: Orchestra/Strings 7 Course Number: 7027 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Students beginning a new instrument needs the consent of the instructor

Course Name: Spanish 7

This course is open to all students who currently play violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students meet during the school day for large group rehearsal and include one half-period sectional every sixth school day. For beginning students, it is highly recommended that your child sign-up for group or private lessons during the summer before coming to school in the fall. There are two major concerts each school year along with the opportunity to perform in the WSMA music festival held in the spring. Attendance is required at all performances.

Prerequisite(s): None

Course Number: 6037 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None Students will develop basic speaking, writing, listening and reading skills during the study of classroom survival situations and description of self, family and friends, diversions, school life and sports. By the end of the year, students will be able to express themselves and initiate simple conversations. Students will study language through topics and the function of language within these topics. Completing Spanish 7 and Spanish 8 is the equivalent of Spanish I at the high school level.

Course Name: Studio Art 7 Course Number: 3037 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $20.00 Are you a student interested in creating, not only with your mind but with your hands? We would like to invite you to explore working with a wide variety of hands on materials, such as: clay, papier-mâché, acrylic paints, inks, etc. Improve your artistic skills while working in a studio setting with drawing, painting, ceramics, printmaking, and mixed media.

8th Grade Course Offerings Required Courses Language Arts Pre-Algebra, Algebra, or Geometry Honors Science Social Studies Academic and Career Planning (2 days/week) Enrichment 8 (2 days/week)

Required Alternating Days (A/B) Courses Physical Education

Elective Course - Year Long/Alternating (A/B) 8th grade students are able to choose either a Foreign Language plus 1 Alternating Day (A/B) elective, as Physical Education will automatically serve as the second alternating day elective, or 3 alternating day electives, as Physical Education will automatically serve as the 4th alternating day elective. Elective Daily Courses Foreign Language ● French ● German ● Spanish ● Latin Elective Courses - Year Long Alternating Days (A/B) Applied Technology and Engineering (A.T.E) ● Engineering, Robotics and Automation 8 Art ● Studio Art 8 Computers ● MyDigitalLife 8 ● Intro to Computer Science 8 Family & Consumer Science (FCS) ● Foods 8 Music ● Band ● Chorus ● Strings/Orchestra

*Factors that impact elective offerings include school enrollment, student choices, and availability of the course itself. When choosing elective courses, it is necessary for students to keep in mind alternate choices because class availability may determine their final program.

8th Grade Daily Required Course Descriptions Course Name: Academic and Career Planning Course Number: 8017 Length of Course: Two class periods per week Prerequisite(s): None

Course Name: Algebra I Course Number: 1218 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Math 7 and/or Pre-Algebra

Middle School Academic and Career Planning provides the foundation for students to explore options as they commence their academic and career planning during their middle school years. The ACP process personalizes each student’s educational experience while providing opportunities to explore and set short-term goals in preparation for his/her future. Throughout the ACP process, students focus on three questions: Who Am I?, Where am I Going?, and How do I Get There? Exploring these questions assists students in understanding their strengths, interests, potential career pathways, and potential post-secondary education options.

Algebra 1 is the foundation for mathematical reasoning. Skills learned in Algebra 1 are transferred to nearly every other content area and are used in everyday life. Those skills include solving and graphing linear equations, functions with exponents, polynomial and quadratic functions, and statistics. Students will be asked to discover and apply formulas to solve for unknowns and develop problem solving ability.

Course Name: Pre-Algebra Course Number: 1220 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Math 7

Course Name: Enrichment 8 Course Number: 8014 Length of Course: Two class periods per week Prerequisite(s): None

In this course students will solve multi-step equations, write and graph linear equations and linear systems, compare and contrast linear functions, apply the triangle sum property, use similar triangles to solve problems, calculate and apply square and cube roots, apply the Pythagorean Theorem, construct and interpret scatterplots (including lines of best fit), choose and use appropriate data displays, apply the properties of integer exponents and scientific notation, verify and describe the properties of transformations, and describe a sequence of transformations, and describe a sequence of transformations that create similar or congruent figures. Communication (both written and oral), connections, problem solving, reasoning abstractly and quantitatively, construction of viable arguments, and real life problems are also integral parts of each lesson

Course Name: Honors Geometry Course Number: 1228 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Algebra I

Course Name: Language Arts 8 Course Number: 1808 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Language Arts 7

Honors Geometry is a rigorous and fast paced course that increases the depth of study related to concepts in Geometry, and includes a detailed emphasis on the laws of sine, cosine and tangents. This course develops geometric concepts, including the study of formal proofs (including coordinate and indirect methods) and algebraic applications. Algebra is used extensively for areas, volumes, lengths, angle measures, and graphing.

Eighth grade Language Arts continues to emphasize a rigorous approach to the integration of reading and writing strategies to develop students as authors by having them engage with the following genres: investigative journalism, literary analysis, research-based position paper, poetry, and fantasy. Grammar instruction is embedded in the writing process and includes parts of speech, punctuation, and sentence structure. Classic, current, and multicultural literature serves as an impetus for the related skills communication, speaking, listening, vocabulary development, and writing.

Course Name: Science 8 Course Number: 1408 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Science 7 Eighth grade science is centered around doing the practices of science and engineering. Students will use the science content to develop their skills in these practices as well as learn themes (Cross Cutting Concepts) through science, such as cause and effect, patterns, and the structure-function relationship. Scientific skills will be applied to learn the topics for this year include basic chemistry, human body, genetics, sound, and light.

Course Name: Social Studies 8 Course Number: 1508 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $5.00 Eighth grade social studies takes a current look at the world. As students look at current issues they will begin to understand where people live determines how people live. Students will also learn that places which appear to be so far away, actually impact them on a daily basis. The year consists of an overview of current issues including Movement of People, Conflict, Globalization, Human Rights, and the Sustainable World. By the end of eighth grade, students will understand how places are connected to one another, how places are independent, how people of the world address human needs and concerns, and how current events impact the daily lives of all people. As a result, students will have an increased awareness of the world and their place in it.

8th Grade Alternating Days (A/B) Required Course Descriptions Course Name: Physical Education 8 Course Number: 1308 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Physical Education 7 In Grade 8 Physical Education, students will have the opportunity to participate in physical activities that achieve and maintain a health-enhancing level of physical fitness, encourages goal-setting, and involve more advanced movement forms and continuous active play. The major emphasis of physical education is on life-long fitness development and wellness. Leadership, teamwork, responsibility, inclusion, positive attitudes, and an increased knowledge of physical activity and its effects on the body are emphasized. These activities are divided in 3 primary units: Cooperatives, Fitness Development, and Motor Skills and Movement Patterns.

8th Grade Elective Course Descriptions (If you choose a Foreign Language class you will need to pick one more class: if you do not choose a Foreign Language class you will need to choose three classes)

Course Name: Band 8 Course Number: 7008 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Previous band experience or private lessons 8th grade band is a musical performance based course that builds off of 7th grade band experiences. Students will perform many genres of music from traditional to pop. In addition to school concerts and concerts at the Wilson Center, students other performance opportunities may include large-group festivals, Bucks games, Elm Grove Memorial Day Parade, etc. The technological aspects of recording and composing will supplement student music learning.

Course Name: Chorus 8 Course Number: 7018 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Love of music and singing This course is open to all students who are interested in learning to use their singing voice as part of a performing ensemble. Students in all stages of vocal development are invited and encouraged to join the chorus. There are two to three major performances, for this ensemble each school year along with the opportunity to participate in the WSMA solo and ensemble festival held in the spring. Chorus meets every other day and students receive one-half period sectional every sixth school day. Attendance is required at all performances.

Course Name: Engineering, Robotics, and Automation 8 Course Number: 2048 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None

Course Name: Foods 8 Course Number: 5038 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $35.00

For one semester students use a robust robotics platform to design, build and program robots in an effort to create a solution to an existing problem. Students learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation and computer control systems. The other semester, students will be exploring the world of woodworking and 3D Printing. Students use industry standard 3D modeling software to create virtual images of their designs and transfer designs to production in the lab. Students will design, model and build a variety of projects using a range of tools and machines.

Why does bread rise? What’s the difference between soft and hard candy? Find out what happens to ingredients when they are changed through heat, motion, and more. Students will discover the science behind food preparation. Food science labs to include the following units: eggs, cakes, pastry and pies, quick breads/yeast breads, and candy making. This class will equip you with skills to use now, in high school, in college, and on your own!

Course Name: French 8 Course Number: 6008 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): French 7

Course Name: German 8 Course Number: 6018 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): German 7

Students further develop their ability to communicate through the study of such topics as family, dining, shopping, and fashion. Technology, videos, music and products from the target culture support and enhance the textbooks. Students apply vocabulary and grammar to real life situations to talk about themselves and others and continue to explore the cultures of French-speaking countries around the world. Completing French 7 and French 8 is the equivalent of French I at the high school level.

Level 1 German continues in 8th grade. Students further develop their ability to create with the language through the topics of: school, clothing, weekend plans, weather, directions, free-time activities and food. Technology, music, and realia support and enhance the textbook. Students apply vocabulary and grammar to real life situation and continue to explore and understand the culture of the German-speaking world. 7th and 8th grade German are Level 1 of the district curriculum. Upon successful completion of Level 1, students will enroll in Level 2 in High School. Completing German 7 and German 8 is the equivalent of German I at the high school level.

Course Name: Introduction to Computer Science Course Number: 4028 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None

Course Name: Latin 8 Course Number: 6028 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Latin 7

This course is an innovative introduction to programming and app creation that transforms the complex language of text-based coding into visual, drag-and-drop building blocks. Student teams create an interface to solve a problem the team defines. Students develop computational thinking by learning fundamental computer science (CS) concepts through app creation. Students will also build career awareness about computing skills in all fields and to improve students’ digital citizenship and cyber-security.

Students continue to learn how the Latin language (and at the same time, the English language) functions and increase their vocabulary through learning word origins. The topics in 8th grade Latin include: the growth of the Roman republic, famous heroes, ancient warfare, technology, agriculture, travel, architecture, and chariot racing. Along with the study of the ancient world, students make comparisons and connections to our modern world. Students learn to compose and read more sophisticated Latin and occasionally work with short segments of authentic Latin written by famous people in history. Completing Latin 7 and Latin 8 is the equivalent of Latin I at the high school level.

Course Name: My Digital Life 8 Course Number: 4068 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None Are you someone who can’t get enough of all the amazing things computers can do? My Digital Life 8 focuses on having FUN creating a variety of interesting digital media personalized to your unique interest: mobile marketing, Google SketchUp, build- your- own-websites, digital imaging, computer animation, video game programming, create your own Apps, virtual worlds… it’s all here! It doesn’t matter if you’re a beginner or an expert, there’s something for everybody in this class! All activities are completed in our state of the art Mac lab. Express yourself in this once in a lifetime experience and gain valuable skills to be ready for your digital future in middle school, high school, and beyond.

Course Name: Spanish 8 Course Number: 6038 Length of Course: Year Prerequisite(s): Spanish 7 Students further develop their ability to communicate using the language through such topics as: weekend plans, places in the city, pastimes, sports, school, family and other topics of personal interest. Students are able to talk about themselves and others. Technology, videos, music and realia support and enhance the textbook. Students apply vocabulary and grammar to real life situation and continue to explore and understand the culture of the Spanish- speaking world. Students who are already fluent (or proficient) Spanish speakers should pursue another language in middle school. A placement test can be taken once the student reaches high school to determine appropriate Spanish placement. Completing Spanish 7 and

Course Name: Orchestra/Strings 8 Course Number: 7028 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): Students beginning a new instrument need the consent of the instructor This course is open to all students who currently play violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students meet during the school day for large group rehearsal and include one half-period sectional every sixth school day. For beginning students, it is highly recommended that your child sign-up for group or private lessons during the summer before coming to school in the fall. There are two major concerts each school year along with the opportunity to perform in the WSMA music festival held in the spring. Attendance is required at all performances.

Course Name: Studio Art 8 Course Number: 3038 Length of Course: Year - Alternating Days (A/B) Prerequisite(s): None Required Course Fee: $20.00 Are you looking for a creative outlet in your day or would you like to continue exploring with hands on materials, such as: acrylic paint, clay, charcoal, plastics, metal, etc.? Then this class is for you! Improve your skills in a studio setting with: drawing, painting, ceramics, printmaking, and mixed media. An interactive look at art history through the use of technology will enhance your learning experience. You will also be encouraged to incorporate your feelings and ideas through problem solving and critical analysis.

Spanish 8 is the equivalent of Spanish I at the high school level.