BEGINNING SPANISH

This course is an introduction to Spanish language and culture. Major topics include greetings, colors, numbers, classroom objects, the calendar, telling time, weather expressions, the house, transportation vocabulary, feelings, animals, foods, questions and interrogatives, the family, holidays, art, and clothing. Students who complete this course successfully should next take Intermediate Spanish or Spanish A.

INTERMEDIATE SPANISH

Prerequisite: Beginning Spanish

This course continues the study of the Spanish language and culture. Major topics include the present tense of verbs, direct object pronouns, the future tense, two-verb phrases, adverbs, present progressive tense, imperatives, reflexive verbs, shopping vocabulary, prepositions, foods and meals, and geography. Students who complete this course successfully should next take Advanced Spanish, or Spanish II at the high school level.

CHORUS

Available for grades 7 - 8 only

This course provides a variety of singing opportunities for students with limited formal choral experience. Vocal techniques and music reading are emphasized.

FOLK MUSIC IN AMERICA

Available for grades 7 - 8 only

This course emphasizes the music of the various cultures that are a part of our rich American heritage. Through singing, dancing, listening, and creating, the student becomes familiar with the customs and unique characteristics of the various groups that make up our society.

Students will have the opportunity to self-select texts and set individual reading goals. Instructional strategies will include teacher read alouds, paired reading, guided reading, literature circles, and building of independent reading time.

Activities will focus on the use of manipulatives to build understanding of mathematical concepts and the use of cooperative and individual activities that practice and strengthen grade level skills and ability in mathematics. Technology, reading and writing for greater understanding in mathematics will be incorporated where appropriate

Application required

Eighth grade AVID students focus on high school placement and researching college choices.

Application required

 

Electives

ANIMAL SCIENCE

Available for grades 7 - 8 only

This study of reptiles, amphibians, mammals, and birds emphasizes habitats, interdependence, domestications, diseases, and treatment. Students learn to prepare environments that simulate the natural habitats of the animals. Ecological concepts, including man's ability to manipulate environments, are highlighted. Students study zoo species and wild animals as well as livestock and pets. The effects of humans and animals upon their environments are stressed. A goal of this course is to develop responsibility for the conservation of our natural resources.

SPACE ADVENTURES

Available for grades 7 - 8 only

Students study basic astronomy and space flight history. The emphasis is upon the NASA materials designed for computer and student activity. Activities include survival, space capsule development, model rocketry, effects of space upon the body, and space stations. Projects and experiments are a vital part of the course.

THE MARINE ECOSYSTEM

Available for grades 7 - 8 only

In this course, students will be introduced to the study of oceanography through the examination of the structure and function of marine life with special emphasis on organism interactions and specific ecosystems such as coral reefs, estuaries, and lagoons. Students study the structure and function of marine life, compare and contrast organisms, and study ecosystems.