Program of Studies
Welcome to our middle school program of studies. This guide outlines the educational opportunities that await our students in middle school. Our program is a roadmap detailing diverse courses and opportunities designed to foster academic growth, critical thinking, and personal development. Our dedicated faculty is committed to creating a culture of accountability that achieves the best academic and developmental outcomes for each student. This is accomplished by providing programming that allows students to explore their interests, develop essential skills, and build a strong foundation for future success. As you embark on this educational adventure, we invite you to explore the subjects and experiences that await you in our middle school program.
Kevin Freeman
Middle School Principal
Middle School Scheduling Process
Student Scheduling
Core Classes: Prior to student registration, student’s core courses will be uploaded into PowerSchool. Students will need to verify that the core courses are correct. Students who meet the ELA 7+ or ELA 8+ eligibility may choose between the ELA or the ELA + course.
Elective Classes: Students have two elective periods during their school day; electives are all-year or semester classes. When selecting elective classes, please pick either 2 all-year classes, 4 semester classes or 1 all-year class and 2 semester classes.
Any family wanting their child to accelerate in the area of math or science will need to go through the district’s acceleration process, which can be found on the district’s website or by clicking here.
Scheduling Timeline
Parent Presentations
January 31, 2024 | 6:00 pm Virtual Parent Presentation |
February 1, 2024 | 6:00 pm Parent Presentation in the Middle School Cafeteria |
February 5, 2024 | Parent Presentation in the Middle School Library |
Student Presentations
February 1, 2024 | Current 7th Grade student presentation in Social Studies Class |
February 2, 2024 | Current 6th Grade student Presentation during Eagle Period - E & S Wing |
February 5, 2024 | Current 6th Grade student Presentation during Eagle Period - R Wing |
Scheduling Window
February 5, 2024 | Students can start entering requests |
February 16, 2024 | Last day for students to enter requests |
PowerSchool Online Registration
Students and Families review all curriculum information in the Middle School Program of Studies and submit course selections online through their PowerSchool accounts.
To Register Online:
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In PowerSchool, select Registration from the Navigation choices on the left hand side.
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Please read and follow the registration directions. Select courses in English, Math, Science, Social Studies, Elective 1, Elective 2, Alternative Elective 1, and Alternative Elective 2.
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Double-check your selections.
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IMPORTANT: Once your registration is complete, hit SUBMIT at bottom of the page.
NOTE It is critical for students/families to make thoughtful & definitive course selections by February 16. After this date, the next opportunity to request a schedule change will be at the beginning of the 2024-2025 school year.
Course Listing
- English Courses
- Math Courses
- Science Courses
- Social Studies Courses
- Elective Courses - Performing Arts
- Elective Courses - World Language
- Elective Courses - Semester
English Courses
English 7
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7
Prerequisite: English 6
In this course students will read, evaluate, and respond using various methods to fiction and nonfiction texts. There is a strong focus on sentence, paragraph, and essay format as well as using critical reading skills to build strong comprehension. By the end of the course, students will demonstrate independence in reading, writing, and speaking.
English 7+
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7
Prerequisite: English 6, Winter MAP Score of 230
In this course students will read, evaluate, and respond using various methods to fiction and nonfiction texts. There is a strong focus on sentence, paragraph, and essay format as well as using critical reading skills to build strong comprehension. By the end of the course, students will demonstrate independence in reading, writing, and speaking. This course differs from regular 7th Grade English Language Arts by moving at a faster pace, incorporating more rigorous reading, and providing higher level reading and writing prompts.
English 8
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 8
Prerequisite: English 7
Students strengthen their comprehension and critical thinking skills in English 8 through the study of specific short stories, novels, plays, and other texts. Each text-based unit includes a variety of new vocabulary, non-fiction selections, writing assignments, class discussions, presentations, or projects designed to help students work toward mastery of the Ohio State ELA standards. English 8 students build their writing skills through a variety of tasks including literary analysis, argumentation, and research-based writing. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to engage with language arts content at the high school level.
English 8+
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 8
Prerequisite: English 7+
Students strengthen their comprehension and critical thinking skills in English 8 through the study of specific short stories, novels, plays, and other texts. Each text-based unit includes a variety of new vocabulary, non-fiction selections, writing assignments, class discussions, presentations, or projects designed to help students work toward mastery of the Ohio State ELA standards. English 8 students build their writing skills through a variety of tasks including literary analysis, argumentation, and research-based writing. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to engage with language arts content at the high school level. This course differs from regular 8th Grade English Language Arts by moving at a faster pace, incorporating more rigorous reading, and providing higher level reading and writing prompts.
Academic English 7
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation based on OELPA Scores
Curriculum Map
In this course, multilingual learners will practice listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills to improve their English language proficiency. Students will practice these language skills in the context of reading, evaluating, and responding to fiction and nonfiction texts aligning with the 7th Grade English Language Arts curriculum. By the end of the course, students will demonstrate increasing independence in listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
Academic English 8
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 8
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation based on OELPA Scores
Curriculum Map
In this course, multilingual learners will practice listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills to improve their English language proficiency. Students will practice these language skills in the context of reading, evaluating, and responding to fiction and nonfiction texts aligning with the 8th Grade English Language Arts curriculum.. By the end of the course, students will demonstrate increasing independence in listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
Math Courses
Math 7
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 7
Prerequisite: Math 6
Text: Core Connections 2, College Preparatory Math
Core Connections, Course 2 (Math 7) is the second of a three-year sequence of courses designed to prepare students for a rigorous college preparatory high school mathematics course. Daily, students in a Math 7 classroom use problem-solving strategies, questioning, investigating, analyzing critically, gathering and constructing evidence, and communicating rigorous arguments justifying their thinking. Along with various other concepts, Math 7 will focus on integers, percentages, and probability. Emphasis will also support the development of multiple strategies to solve problems and to recognize the connections between concepts.
Pre-Algebra B
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 7
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra A
Text: Core Connections 2 & 3, College Preparatory Math
Curriculum Map
Pre-Algebra B is the 2nd in a series of compacted classes designed to prepare students for Algebra 1 as 8th graders. Students in this course will be asked to use problem-solving strategies, questioning, investigating, analyzing critically, gathering and constructing evidence, and communicating rigorous arguments justifying their thinking daily. Students will explore equations with rational coefficients, linear equations, functions, transformations, scatterplots, associations, ratios, proportions, Pythagorean Theorem, rational numbers, and volume.
Math 8
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 8
Prerequisite: Math 7
Text: Core Connections 3, College Preparatory Math
Math 8 is a pre-algebra based course designed to prepare students for a rigorous college-preparatory high school mathematics course. Daily, students in Math 8 use problem-solving strategies, questioning, investigating, analyzing critically, gathering and constructing evidence, and communicating rigorous arguments justifying their thinking. Under teacher guidance, students learn in collaboration with others while sharing information, expertise, and ideas. Students will explore linear equations and relationships, transformations, functions, exponents, properties of triangles, the number system, and volume of 3D solids. The course helps students to develop multiple strategies to solve problems and to recognize the connections between concepts. The lessons in the course meet all of the content standards and embed the “Mathematical Practices” of the Common Core State Standards released in June 2010.
Algebra 1
Year Long
1.0 Math Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 8
Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra B or 8th grade Math
Text: Core Connections Algebra, College Preparatory Math
Graphing Calculator Utilized: Free Online Desmos Graphing Calculator App
Curriculum Map
Algebra 1 is the first in a series of courses that prepare students for advanced mathematical concepts. This course is designed to develop an understanding of algebraic concepts, problem-solving, and the skill of abstract thinking. Students will explore algebraic expressions, linear and quadratic equations, functions, polynomials, rational numbers, statistics, solve linear equations and inequalities, use proportional reasoning, graph relations and functions, solve systems of linear equations, and factor expressions. Emphasis will also be placed on analyzing graphs of linear, quadratic, and exponential functions.
Honors Algebra 1
Year Long
1.0 Math Credit
Honors Grade Scale
Grades: 9
Prerequisites: 8th-grade math
Text: Core Connections Algebra, College Preparatory Math
Graphing Calculator Utilized: Free Online Desmos Graphing Calculator App
Curriculum Map
Algebra 1 is the first in a series of courses that prepare students for advanced mathematical concepts. This course is designed to develop an understanding of algebraic concepts, problem-solving, and the skill of abstract thinking. Students will explore algebraic expressions, linear and quadratic equations, functions, polynomials, rational numbers, statistics, solve linear equations and inequalities, use proportional reasoning, graph relations and functions, solve systems of linear equations, and factor expressions. Emphasis will also be placed on analyzing graphs of linear, quadratic, and exponential functions.
Honors Geometry
Year Long
1.0 Math Credit
Honors Grade Scale
Grades: 9, 10
Prerequisites: Recommended grade of B or higher in Algebra 1 and/or teacher recommendation
Text: Core Connections Geometry, College Preparatory Math
Recommended Graphing Calculator: TI-84 (any model)
Curriculum Map
Honors Geometry is a course designed for the student preparing to take Honors Algebra 2, Honors Pre-Calculus and AP Calculus. All topics in the regular Geometry course are addressed, as well as advanced topics in transformation, analytic geometry, non-Euclidean geometry, and deductive reasoning through formal proof. Many topics are considered with the use of a graphing calculator and computer assistance.
Science Courses
Science 7
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 7
Prerequisite: Science 6
Text
Throughout Grade 7 Science, students will investigate Earth, Physical, and Life sciences through differentiated lessons, labs, demonstrations, internal field trips, and activities. Students will discover Earth’s hydrologic cycle, patterns that exist in atmospheric and oceanic currents and the relationship between thermal energy and the currents. They will also understand empirical evidence for the arrangements of atoms on the Periodic Table of Elements, conservation of mass and energy, and transformation and transfer of energy. Finally, students will examine the impact of matter and energy transfer within the biotic component of ecosystems.
Science 8
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 8
Prerequisite:
Text
Throughout Grade 8 Science, students will investigate Earth's interior, geological history, and the forces that shape our dynamic planet. They will also understand the fundamental principles of contact and noncontact forces, such as magnetism, electrostatic, and gravity, and their relevance to Earth's physical processes. Students will examine the diversity of species on Earth and the role that variation of traits plays in survival, the process of natural selection and extinction over many generations, and utilize fossil records as evidence to understand changes in the number and types of species throughout Earth's history. Finally, students will study how traits are passed from parent to offspring and how genetics shapes future generations of organisms.
Physical Science
Year Long
1.0 Science Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 9
Prerequisites: None
Curriculum Map
This course is designed to be an introduction to physics and chemistry, investigation of lab techniques, experimental design, and data analysis utilizing scientific models. In-depth studies of simple physical systems will be used to provide students with direct experiences and observations of basic principles. Students will engage in complex problem-solving activities that require understanding and practical application of these principles. Physics introduction to motion, forces, energy, and waves. Chemistry introduction to the atomic model, periodic table, matter, separation, and bonding. Astronomy introduction to galaxies and stellar formation.
Honors Biology
Year Long
1.0 Science Credit
Honors Grade Scale
Grade: 9, 10
Prerequisites: Physical Science, Algebra 1 and Recommendation by a science teacher
Text: Modern Biology, Holt, Rinehart and Winston
Curriculum Map
This is an accelerated laboratory course to the study of life. This class is for students who show a strong aptitude for science inquiry, data collection, and systematic observations. Honors Biology is for those students who are self-motivated, independent learners who have a high level of abstract thinking, and are interested in further science study. Students in this course will develop skills in laboratory experimental design and methodology. The topics of this course include cellular biology, an introduction to biochemistry, organism structure and function, heredity and genetics, evolution, and ecology.
Social Studies Courses
Social Studies - 7th Grade
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 7
Prerequisite:
Text:
The seventh-grade curriculum provides a rich exploration of world history, focusing on diverse perspectives avoiding the imposition of present-day values on the past. We delve into the enduring impact of Greek and Roman civilizations on governance, technology, art, and literature. The collapse of the Roman Empire and subsequent developments in feudalism are discussed alongside the rise of nation-states and the Renaissance. We highlight the Islamic civilization's contributions to science and medicine, influencing the European Renaissance. The curriculum covers the decline of feudalism, the Reformation, and the emergence of Protestant faiths. It explores the growth of cities, empires, and markets, emphasizing the trans-Saharan slave trade and the Columbian exchange. We analyze the economic and cultural influence of Europe through explorations and colonization. Additionally, students examine the variability in resource distribution globally and the need for cost-benefit analysis in economic decision-making. Throughout, we foster critical thinking by encouraging the analysis of individual and group perspectives, connecting historical events to contemporary issues, and promoting civic engagement opportunities for students.
Social Studies - 8th Grade
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 8
Prerequisite:
Text:
Eighth-grade social studies offers a captivating journey through the history of North America, beginning with the exploration and colonization by Europeans driven by economic and religious motivations. It explores the conflicts arising from competition for territory and resources among colonizing powers, shedding light on the impact of race-based slavery on the forced migration of Africans and its role in colonial economic development. We delve into the Enlightenment ideals that inspired English colonists to draft the Declaration of Independence, setting the stage for the American Revolution. Key events, influential figures, and modern and historical maps are incorporated to provide a comprehensive understanding of historical events shaped by geography. The curriculum focuses on the development of a unique national identity based on democratic ideals and the establishment of the U.S. Constitution, emphasizing citizen rights. It covers outcomes like national independence, westward expansion, and the Industrial Revolution, addressing issues such as slavery and the Civil War.
Elective Courses - Performing Arts
Band 2
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 7
Prerequisite:
Band is a continuation of Band 1, which most students take in 6th grade. Band 2 builds upon the skills learned in Band 1 and develops critical thinking, leadership, teamwork, and discipline through music. Students expand their knowledge of music theory and instrumental skills, increase the complexity of the music they are able to sight read and perform, develop greater musicality and expressiveness, and become more independent musicians. Each unit of study culminates in an ensemble performance.
Band 3
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 8
Prerequisite:
Band is a continuation of Band 2, which most students take in 7th grade. Band 3 builds upon the skills learned in Band 2 and develops critical thinking, leadership, teamwork and discipline through music. Students expand their knowledge of music theory and instrumental skills, increase the complexity of the music they are able to sight read and perform, develop greater musicality and expressiveness, and become more independent musicians. Each unit of study culminates in an ensemble performance.
Choir 2
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 7
Prerequisite:
Middle School Choir 2 is a year long choral ensemble open to any student with a desire to learn, sing, and perform music. Students will learn and practice 21st-century skills such as communication, collaboration, and creativity while they cultivate and develop their music and vocal skills. The choir will perform four (4) graded concerts throughout the year in which the students can showcase the skills they have developed. Topics covered throughout the course include Vocal Health and Singing Technique, Music Theory (rhythms, note reading, key signatures, scales, vocabulary, etc.), Solfege and Sight Singing, Music History, and Performance Etiquette. Students will develop an understanding and appreciation of the differences in music from other cultures and genres as we dive into a diverse repertoire. Students also have the opportunity to use their voice to influence some of the chosen repertoire. Students will build a sense of belonging and community as the class bonds over team-building games, musical activities, and optional performance opportunities.
Choir 3
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 8
Prerequisite:
Middle School Choir 3 is a year long choral ensemble open to any student who wants to learn, sing, and perform music. This course is a continuation of MS Choir 2. Students will continue to build on their developed skills as they explore more challenging musical concepts. Students will be challenged to demonstrate proper vocal technique and tone production, knowledge of musical terms, and mastery of basic sight reading skills including hand signs and solfege. Students will continue to develop an understanding and appreciation of the differences in music from other cultures and the connections music brings to people, places, and time. Students will continue to have the opportunity to use their voice to influence the varied repertoire of the course. Students will build a sense of belonging and community as the class bonds over team-building games, musical activities, and optional performance opportunities.
Orchestra 2
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 7
Prerequisite:
This class meets daily. Orchestra 2 is a continuation of Orchestra 1, which most students take in 6th grade. Orchestra 2 builds upon the skills learned in Orchestra 1 and develops critical thinking, leadership, teamwork, and discipline through music. Students expand their knowledge of music theory, increase the complexity of music they are able to sight read and perform, develop greater musicality and expressiveness, and become more independent musicians. Each unit of study culminates in an ensemble performance.
Orchestra 3
Year Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade 8
Prerequisite:
This class meets daily. Orchestra 3 is a continuation of Orchestra 2, which most students take in 7th grade. Orchestra 3 is a performance-based class that builds upon the skills learned in Orchestra 2 and develops critical thinking, leadership, teamwork, and discipline through music. Students expand their knowledge of music theory, increase the complexity of music they are able to sight read and perform, develop greater musicality and expressiveness, and become more advanced musicians. Each unit of study culminates in an ensemble performance.
Elective Courses - World Language
French 1A
Year Long
0.5 Foreign Language Elective Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 7
Prerequisites: Winter Grade 6 MAP RIT score 225 or greater
Curriculum Map
In French 1, the five language skills – listening, speaking, writing, reading and cultural awareness – are introduced. Communication skills are developed through the daily use of French in the classroom to promote fluency. Grammar concepts are introduced and practiced in meaningful contexts with authentic resources throughout the year. Students will begin to develop language fluency through presentational, interpersonal, and interpretive tasks. As students become acquainted with the language and culture of French-speaking countries, they will develop insight into their language and culture while developing an appreciation and respect for diversity.
French 1B
Year Long
0.5 Foreign Language Elective Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 8
Prerequisites: Successful Completion of French 1A
Curriculum Map
In French 1, the five language skills – listening, speaking, writing, reading and cultural awareness – are introduced. Communication skills are developed through the daily use of French in the classroom to promote fluency. Grammar concepts are introduced and practiced in meaningful contexts with authentic resources throughout the year. Students will begin to develop language fluency through presentational, interpersonal, and interpretive tasks. As students become acquainted with the language and culture of French-speaking countries, they will develop insight into their language and culture while developing an appreciation and respect for diversity.
French 1
Year Long
1.0 Foreign Language Elective Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 8
Prerequisites: Winter Grade 6 MAP RIT score 225 or greater
Curriculum Map
In French 1, the five language skills – listening, speaking, writing, reading, and cultural awareness – are introduced. Communication skills are developed through the daily use of French in the classroom to promote fluency. Grammar concepts are introduced and practiced in meaningful contexts with authentic resources throughout the year. Students will begin to develop language fluency through presentational, interpersonal, and interpretive tasks. As students become acquainted with the language and culture of French-speaking countries, they will develop insight into their language and culture while developing an appreciation and respect for diversity.
Mandarin Chinese 1A
Year Long
0.5 Foreign Language Elective Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 7,8
Prerequisites: Winter Grade 6 MAP RIT score 225 or greater
Textbook: Integrated Chinese Book 1
Curriculum Map
Mandarin 1A introduces the five language skills - listening, speaking, writing, reading, and cultural awareness. Communication skills are developed through the daily use of Mandarin in the classroom to promote fluency. Grammar concepts are introduced and practiced in meaningful contexts with authentic resources throughout the year. Students will begin to develop language fluency through presentational, interpersonal, and interpretive tasks. This year-long class covers the first half of Mandarin 1 standards.
Mandarin Chinese 1B
Year Long
0.5 Foreign Language Elective Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 8
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Mandarin Chinese 1A
Textbook: Integrated Chinese Book 1
Curriculum Map
The five language skills in Mandarin 1B are continued: listening, speaking, writing, reading, and cultural awareness. Communication skills are reinforced through the daily use of Mandarin in the classroom to promote fluency. This course will help students develop skills in Mandarin Chinese to communicate across ethnic, cultural, ideological, and national boundaries and understand Chinese interpersonal behavioral culture and related thought patterns. At the end of the course, students will be expected to perform in speaking, listening, reading, and writing Chinese at a level of proficiency appropriate for continuing to the next course in the sequence. This year-long class covers the second half of Mandarin 1 standards.
Spanish 1A
Year Long
0.5 Foreign Language Elective Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 7
Prerequisites: Winter Grade 6 MAP RIT score 225 or greater
In Spanish 1, the five language skills – listening, speaking, writing, reading and cultural awareness – are introduced. Communication skills are developed through the daily use of Spanish in the classroom to promote fluency. Grammar concepts are introduced and practiced in meaningful contexts with authentic resources throughout the year. Students will begin to develop language fluency through presentational, interpersonal, and interpretive tasks. As students become acquainted with the language and culture of Spanish-speaking countries, they will develop insight into their language and culture while developing an appreciation and respect for diversity.
Spanish 1B
Year Long
0.5 Foreign Language Elective Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 8
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Spanish 1A
In Spanish 1, the five language skills – listening, speaking, writing, reading and cultural awareness – are introduced. Communication skills are developed through the daily use of Spanish in the classroom to promote fluency. Grammar concepts are introduced and practiced in meaningful contexts with authentic resources throughout the year. Students will begin to develop language fluency through presentational, interpersonal, and interpretive tasks. As students become acquainted with the language and culture of Spanish-speaking countries, they will develop insight into their language and culture while developing an appreciation and respect for diversity.
Spanish 1
Year Long
1.0 Foreign Language Elective Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 8
Prerequisites: Winter Grade 6 MAP RIT score 225 or greater
Text: Descubre I
Curriculum Map
In Spanish 1, the five language skills – listening, speaking, writing, reading, and cultural awareness – are introduced. Communication skills are developed through the daily use of Spanish in the classroom to promote fluency. Grammar concepts are introduced and practiced in meaningful contexts with authentic resources throughout the year. Students will begin to develop language fluency through presentational, interpersonal, and interpretive tasks. As students become acquainted with the language and culture of Spanish-speaking countries, they will develop insight into their language and culture while developing an appreciation and respect for diversity.
Elective Courses - Semester
Art
Semester Long - Repeatable
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: None
This course builds on skills learned in Intermediate School Art (and possibly other middle school art courses) as students are further introduced to the elements and principles of art through two and three-dimensional works of art. Improvement of technical skills and craftsmanship will be emphasized. Students will investigate new ways to organize and manipulate new materials and tools to create artwork. Because students can take our course multiple times while in middle school, our curriculum changes by semester, and projects are typically on a 4-semester rotation. Project length depends on the project's complexity, materials being used, and student experience. Scaffolded levels of projects and material options are offered as appropriate. Examples of past projects include a logo name project, a ceramic project, a still life drawing, a portrait project, an oil pastel project, a mixed media project, and public art design proposals.
Career Connections
Semester Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: None
Curriculum Map
This course, offered in partnership with Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools, is designed for students to explore their interests and aptitudes in 16 different career fields. Students will be involved in hands-on projects with local business involvement representing a variety of career and college pathways while developing the framework to explore their skills. They will explore the work world, assess their interests and abilities, and learn to make realistic decisions about their continuing education and career goals. This course focuses on several career fields and provides 21st-century workforce skills.
Allied Health Career
Semester Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: None
Curriculum Map
In this course, students will explore various careers within the allied health professions. They will gain knowledge and understanding of the roles and responsibilities of professionals in this field. Students will perform various hands-on activities, allowing them to understand the healthcare industry's daily responsibilities better.
Wellness
Semester Long - Repeatable
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: None
Wellness class combines fitness, individual/team sport, and lifetime activity. Students will also participate in mental health, decision-making, nutrition, and disease prevention classes throughout the semester. Many activities will be explored during class, including but not limited to: racquet sports, dancing, golf, track and field, walking/jogging, disc golf, and handball. Team sports and activities include but are not limited to flag football, tag rugby, lacrosse, basketball, volleyball, hockey, softball, invasion games, fitness, and other team activities.
Physical Education
Semester Long
0.25 Physical Education Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grades: 8
Prerequisites: None
Curriculum Map
This course will highlight the significance of lifetime physical fitness, individual and team sports, and sportsmanship. The class will introduce various fitness activities that can be used for a lifetime to live a healthy lifestyle. These activities may include walking, running, swimming, plyometrics, yoga, Zumba, fitness testing, and weight training. The class will introduce individual and team sports to help with skill development, strategies and tactics, rules, and scoring of each activity. These sports may include ultimate frisbee, badminton, volleyball, basketball, soccer, tennis, pickleball, and dance. Students will learn sportsmanship and social skills while working with a partner or team during the activities in this class. The class will focus on overall wellness. All students will be evaluated based on daily participation, responsible personal and social behavior, and knowledge of strategies and rules.
Technology
Semester Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: None
This course provides hands-on experiences for students to understand critical computer science concepts. Students will move through the engineering design process to produce and refine artifacts. This course will focus heavily on computational thinking, the engineering design process, and problem-solving/troubleshooting. No prerequisite skills are required.
Robotics, Engineering, & Fabrication 1A
Semester Long
0.5 Technology Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: MS Technology 1
Curriculum Map
This course is an introductory course in which students will be introduced to the two interwoven focus areas. As part of the first focus area, students will integrate science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) principles by building Lego robots and creating computer programs enabling them to react to their environment and perform autonomous missions using motors, sensors, and gears.
Students will explore engineering design prototyping concepts and fabrication as part of the second focus area. Additionally, students will be introduced to various engineering technologies that can be utilized for various solutions.
Robotics, Engineering, & Fabrication 1B
Semester Long
0.5 Technology Credit
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 8
Prerequisite: MS Technology & Robotics, Engineering, & Fabrication 1A
Curriculum Map
This course serves as a next pathway course after Robotics, Engineering & Fabrication 1A in that students will further explore the two interwoven focus areas. As part of the first focus area, students will integrate science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) principles by building Lego robots and creating computer programs enabling them to react to their environment and perform autonomous missions using motors, sensors, and gears. Students will explore engineering design prototyping concepts and fabrication as part of the second focus area. Additionally, students will be introduced to various engineering technologies that can be utilized for various solutions.
Introduction to Theatre
Semester Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: None
Curriculum Map
Drama students will be introduced to acting and script analysis fundamentals through various creative classroom activities, including ensemble-building games, pantomime, improvisation, storytelling, voice & diction, and monologue/scene work. An emphasis will be placed on the structural breakdown of plays/musicals to foster an understanding of how stories work and how characters fit into those stories. A primary goal of this course is to develop students’ 21st-century skills, which include collaboration, creativity and imagination, critical thinking, effective oral / written communication, problem-solving, and spontaneity. In addition to having the opportunity to demonstrate their knowledge in the classroom, students may elect to participate in our International Thespian Society troupe as well as New Albany High School theatrical productions. These activities are extracurricular, taking place after school hours, and are not a requirement for this course.
Stagecraft
Semester Long
Regular Grade Scale
Grade: 8
Prerequisite: None
Curriculum Map
This course teaches fundamental construction techniques and design skills in modern theatre. At the beginning of the year, students will learn the intrinsic technical components of a theatre and become acquainted with the elements of a Scene Shop, including the function and proper usage of all equipment and tools. Safety in the theatre is also a crucial component of this first unit. After this first unit, students learn specific techniques, such as the construction of flats (Hollywood and Standard), platforms, stairs, etc., which will be taught. They will learn the basics of set design and will design a mock set for one of the Drama Department’s productions. Elements of lighting and its design, painting techniques, properties design, sound design, and stage management are all additional topics to be covered. Students have a unique opportunity in this course to collaborate with professional theatrical designers and technicians through our partnership with CAPA and our productions. They will work on individual projects and the technical elements for the musicals/plays produced by the New Albany High School Drama Department. Though all coursework is done in class, students can join the crew for the extracurricular productions.
Academic Enrichment - English
Year Long or Semester Long
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation
This class is designed to support student growth in reading and literacy. With an emphasis on small-group instruction, students work to build specific reading strategies. We focus on building off of what students are already doing in ELA.
Academic Enrichment - Writing
Year Long or Semester Long
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation
This class is designed to support student growth in writing across the curriculum. With an emphasis on small group instruction, students work to build specific writing strategies. We focus on reinforcing and supporting what students are doing in all classes where writing assignments are assigned.
Academic Enrichment - Math
Year Long or Semester Long
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation
This class is designed to support student growth in math. With an emphasis on small group instruction, students work to build specific writing strategies. We focus on reinforcing and supporting what students are doing in all classes.
Academic Enrichment - English Language Learners
Year Long
Grade: 7,8
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation based on OELPA Scores
In this course, multilingual learners will receive additional practice in listening, reading, writing, and speaking in order to improve their English language proficiency. They will also have regular opportunities to receive support on their coursework for other classes.