Course Registration Information

7th grades may choose from the following Language Arts courses.

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7th Grade Language Arts Courses

Language Arts

• Required course
• Grade:7
• Course length: full year

Using novels and a variety of texts aligned with grade-level English Language Arts standards, 7th Grade Language Arts students will develop and strengthen their reading, writing, thinking, speaking, and listening skills. The course is designed to support students in working at grade level while growing their literacy and analytical abilities.

Students should expect a balanced learning experience that includes whole-class instruction, small-group and student-led discussions, independent work, and collaborative projects. Through consistent practice and meaningful engagement with texts, students will build the skills necessary for continued academic growth and success.

Advanced Language Arts

• Required course
• Grade: 7
• Course length: full year

7th Grade Advanced Language Arts is designed for students who are motivated to engage in an accelerated and rigorous curriculum. This course prepares students for high school honors, pre-AP coursework, and advanced academic pathways beyond middle school.

Using state standards as a foundation, students write extensively across narrative, argumentative, and explanatory modes while engaging deeply with compelling, at- and above-grade-level texts. The course emphasizes higher-level critical thinking, analytical discussion, and meaningful collaboration. Students participate in both group and independent projects, share their work, and give and receive constructive feedback.

Advanced Language Arts students are expected to:

• Proactively engage in the accelerated pace of an honors-level curriculum
• Demonstrate strong foundational writing skills across multiple genres
• Participate in sophisticated critical thinking and text analysis
• Conduct independent research and complete self-guided units of study
• Work effectively both collaboratively and independently
• Self-advocate and communicate ideas, needs, and questions voluntarily
• Maintain a strong work ethic and commitment to academic growth

This program is intended for students who seek challenge, demonstrate initiative, and are prepared to take ownership of their learning.

7th Grade Science Course

7th Grade Science 

• Required course
• Grade: 7
• Course length: full year                                                                

This class is an integrated science class based on the Next Generation Science Standards. 7^th grade science will give students a basic understanding of the relationships between chemical reactions, matter and energy, metabolic reactions, matter cycling and photosynthesis, ecosystem dynamics, and earth's resources.  

All incoming 7^th grade students are initially placed into Math 7.

Placement in Advanced Math or Algebra is based on their achievement on 6^th grade, STAR Test and 5^th and 6^th grade SBA scores and teacher recommendations. Big Ideas Math, which is aligned to the Washington State Learning Standards, is the district-approved curriculum for all middle school level students.  In all math classes, students will continue to evolve as mathematicians as they learn to use the Eight Mathematical Practices as outlined in the Washington State Learning Standards.

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7th Grade Math Courses

Math 7

• Required course
• Grade: 7
• Course length: full year

Students will study ratio and proportion, percent, graphing, probability, measurement, integers and linear proportions.  SBA preparation is addressed.

Accelerated Math 7/8

• Required course
• Grade: 7
• Course length: full year

This course is an acceleration course that will prepare the student for Algebra the following year.  Accelerated Math is a rigorous, fast-paced course, and entrance into this course is dependent upon qualifications listed above.  Students in Accelerated math must maintain a B- grade and may be moved to Math 7 if necessary. 

Accelerated Math will cover vital 7^th and 8^th grade Common Core State Math Standards: 

Rational numbers and number theory; linear equations and functions; proportionality and similarity; properties and relationships in geometric figures; probability and data; and additional key content. 

Algebra 1

• Required course
• Grade" 7
• Course length: full year

This course introduces fundamental operation of equations and formulas, studies of ratio, proportion, variation, indirect measurements, polynomial operations, factoring and operation with radical expressions.  Students will solve equations (linear, quadratic and systems) and inequalities using graphing, substitution and/or addition.  The student is also introduced to principles governing system and set theory.

Students must earn a B- or above to be recommended to take Geometry the following school year.

Note: Algebra 1 is a rigorous, fast-paced course, and entrance into this course is dependent upon qualifications listed above.  This course provides one high school math credit upon successful completion (see note on transcript policy).

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Transcript policy for high school credit math courses- taken during 7th and 8th grades.

Regarding high-school-credit math courses (Algebra & Geometry) taken during 7th or 8^th grade:     

• Grades will be posted to the students’ middle school transcript.
• Grades will be posted to the students’ high school transcript. 
• When posted to the high school transcript, the grades:
  • will accurately indicate when the class was taken
  • will be included in the student’s high school graduation credits and GPA

7th Grade Required Course

Foundations of Technology

• Required course
• Grade: 7
• Course length- semester

The goal of this class is to give every student the opportunity to learn foundational skills of using digital technology in an academic and professional setting. This class focuses on teaching students core concepts related to digital technology, focusing on applications, skills and habits that students will be asked to rely on throughout their academic and professional career. Concepts covered will include career exploration and digital skills, artificial intelligence, entrepreneurship and enterprise, digital media and graphic design, computer science fundamentals and keyboarding.

7th Grade Required Physical Education and Health Courses

Health

• Required course
• Grade: 7
• Course length: semester

This semester-long course empowers students to develop essential health literacy skills while exploring critical wellness topics relevant to their lives.  Students will investigate physical, mental, emotional, and social health concepts that support their growth and well-being during early adolescence.

Students will examine topics including nutrition and physical activity, personal safety, substance abuse prevention, mental and emotional wellness, disease prevention, and sexual health. The course emphasizes practical application of health knowledge to real-world situations students encounter daily.

Physical Fitness

• Required course
• Grade: 7
• Course length: semester

This course is designed to improve the student's physical skills and knowledge through participation in both individual and team activities. Opportunities are provided to understand and improve cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility in addition to the social-emotional aspects of sport in an effort to promote lifelong fitness. 

7th Grade History Course

Washington State History

• Required course
• Grade: 7
• Course length: semester

This course introduces students to Washington State’s geography, history, cultures, government, and economy from time immemorial to the present. Students explore Indigenous histories and sovereignty, as well as exploration, migration, statehood, civic structures, and Washington’s role in national and global contexts, while building skills in inquiry, critical thinking, and civic engagement.

Note: This course is a high school graduation requirement. Students must pass this course to meet the requirement.

Students choose either one year-long elective or two semester-long electives.

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Semester-Long Elective Courses

Acting

• Elective
• Grade: 7
• Course length: semester

Welcome to the world of theatre! Over the course of this semester, we will look at various aspects of performance including characterization, movement, voice, articulation, scene work, monologues, and play production. This is a great class for students who already have a love of drama as well as those who want to feel more comfortable speaking in front of people. The culminating project is a full play production with an evening performance. Memorization and participation are required.

Digital Production

• Elective
• Grades: 7 and 8
• Course length: semester

In this class you will learn to produce content in a digital space. You will have choice over what you learn in this class and be able to pursue your passions as they relate to creating creative content in digital space. You can learn to create games, virtual reality spaces and games, beats and songs, websites and blogs, the basics of photography and photo editing, how to make animations, how to create digital art, coding and much more. This course will be done through Canvas, which will allow you to learn at a pace that is right for you. You will also have as much choice as possible when it comes to the topics you use as the basis for the work you do.

Examples of some of the content previous students have produced in this class can be found at Snocoders.com on the Virtual Travel, Advocacy Sites, Student Websites and Virtual Reality pages.

Note: This class is a mix of 7^th and 8^th grade students and may have a lunch opposite of 7^th grade.

Engineering 1

• Elective
• Grade: 7
• Course length: semester

This 18-week exploratory S.T.E.M. course incorporates project-based learning with a focus on the engineering cycle. Students will learn about a variety of topics including power tool safety & operation, measurement, robotics, simple machines, electricity & soldering, and computer aided drafting & design (CADD). Projects include candy dispensers, robotics, edge lit LED signs, magic 8 spinners and more.

Family and Consumer Science 1

• Elective
• Grade: 7
• Course length: semester

In this class students will have hands-on, project-based learning in the following areas:  All about Me, "How to" do all those things we should know how to do but have never been taught!  Interior Design, Sewing (by hand and on a machine) and Basic Cooking/Nutrition, as well as gardening in the spring semester.  At the end of each unit, students will walk away with a project that demonstrates their personal likes and interests as well as the skills and techniques to use in the future.  This is a fun, fast paced class where students learn with hands on activities and real-life application.

Forensics

• Elective
• Grades: 7 and 8
• Course length: semester

Forensics will be a one-semester investigative science and technology course. Using Scientific Inquiry Skills, students will learn how to observe, collect, analyze and evaluate evidence found at crime scenes.  Included:  hair analysis, DNA analysis, blood analysis, forensic anthropology (bones), chromatography, impression evidence (tire tracks/shoe prints/tool marks), arson investigation, chemical analysis. 

Note: This class is a mix of 7^th and 8^th grade students and may have a lunch opposite of 7^th grade two days per week.

Introduction to Art

• Elective
• Grade: 7
• Course length: semester

In this introductory course, students will gain an understanding and appreciation for the visual arts! We focus on the elements of art and explore basic art techniques and mediums. We will explore art history, movements in art, as well as contemporary art as they relate to our own projects. This class is perfect for the beginner artist!

Team Sports

• Elective
• Grade: 7
• Course length: semester

This course will include various sports with an emphasis on skills, strategy, and game play.  Activities may include but are not limited to: Flag football, softball, volleyball, badminton, soccer, and basketball.

Full-Year Elective Courses

Choir

• Elective
• Grades: 7 and 8
• Course length: full year

Choir is for 7th and 8th grade students who love to sing and perform.  Choir members learn to sing in three-part harmony, with boys singing baritone parts and girls divided into sopranos and altos.  Students will also learn to read a music score and to sight sing.  This group takes three field trips a year, including one to an adjudicated Choral festival in May.  There are also three required evening concerts and occasional assembly performances.  Solo opportunities are available for students who are interested.

 Note: This class is a mix of 7^th and 8^th grade students and may have a lunch opposite of 7^th grade.

Cadet Band

• Elective
• Grade: 7
• Course length: full year

This band is offered to 7th grade students with one or more years’ experience on a band instrument. Beginners who are self-motivated learners and committed to regular, daily practice are also welcome. At a typical Cadet Band rehearsal, we do warm-ups, sight reading, technique exercises and work on concert music.  This group performs in four required evening school concerts and takes a field trip in March to participate in the MPMEA band Festival.  Individual band members will also have the opportunity to participate in the MPMEA Solo-Ensemble festival in May.

Students are required to provide their own instrument for this class, although some larger school-owned instruments like French horns, baritone horns and tubas may be available for checkout. Contact Mrs. Stout at 360-563-4554 for more information, or if you need help selecting or acquiring an instrument.

Jazz Band

• Elective
• Grades: 7 and 8
• Course length: full year
• Prerequisites: Audition required, enrollment in beginning, cadet, concert band or choir
• Zero hour class- 6:30- 7:25 a.m.

Instruction focuses on jazz concepts such as improvisation, big band swing, jazz, rock, Latin styles and funk.  This is a performance-oriented group that takes three field trips to regional jazz festivals, plus required evening school concerts and one Saturday festival.

Auditions are held in the Spring, and private music instruction is highly recommended for interested students. For information about auditions, contact Mrs. Stout at 360-563-4554.

Students must arrange their own transportation to this class.

Beginning Band

• Elective
• Grades: 7 and 8
• Course length: full year

Beginning Band class offers individualized instruction designed to meet the needs of students with no previous band experience, students with some band experience, or those who may wish to learn a new instrument. Did you try band in 6th grade and not complete it? Did you want to participate in band but couldn’t get a ride to school? Did remote learning make it impossible for you to attend? This is the right class to get you involved in band. Instruction is offered on flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet family, sax family, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion. Percussionists will learn and practice bells as well as snare drum.  Some instruments are available for loan.  Contact Mrs. Stout at 360-563-4554 for information.

7th grades may choose from the following Language Arts courses.

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8th Grade Language Arts Courses

Language Arts

• Required course
• Grade: 8
• Course length: full year

Using a variety of texts and in congruence with grade level English Language Arts standards, language arts students will work to increase their reading, writing, thinking, speaking, and listening skills. Students should expect a learning experience that helps them grow their literacy and analytical skills through a variety of activities, including small-group and student-led discussions as well as independent and collaborative work.

Advanced Language Arts

• Required course
• Grade: 8
• Course length: full year

This class is designed for students who are motivated to engage in a curriculum that is accelerated and advanced. The goal for this program is to prepare students for high school Honors, Pre-AP, and beyond.

Advanced ELA students are expected to:

• proactively engage in the accelerated pacing of an honors curriculum
• participate at a higher level of critical thinking and analysis with at/above grade-level texts
• have strong foundational skills in narrative, argumentative, and explanatory writing
• engage in independent research and self-guided units of study
• self-advocate with teachers and peers; communicate needs and ideas voluntarily

8th Grade History Course

United States History

• Required course
• Grade: 8
• Course length: full year

This social studies requirement picks up the story of our nation's history just prior to the Revolutionary War and continues through the end of the Civil War. Major units of study are: Revolutionary War, U.S. Constitution, Industrial Revolution, Westward Movement, slavery, the Civil War and reconstruction.

8th Grade Science Course

8th Grade Science

• Required course
• Grade: 8
• Course length: full year

This class is an integrated science class based on the Next Generation Science Standards. 8^th grade science will give students a basic understanding of the relationships between contact forces, sound waves, forces at a distance, earth and space, genetics, and natural selection and common ancestry.

Students are placed into mathematics based on their achievement as measured by their grade in current class, teacher recommendation, STAR Test, SBA scores and Placement test results (when applicable).  Big Ideas Math, which is aligned to the Washington State Learning Standards, is the district-approved curriculum for all middle school level students. In all math classes, students will continue to evolve as mathematicians as they learn to use the Eight Mathematical Practices as outlined in the Washington State Learning Standards. 

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8th Grade Math Courses

Math 8

• Required course
• Grade: 8
• Course length: full year

Students study linear equations, graphing, geometric transformations, probability and statistics, scientific notation and exponents, measurement, the Pythagorean Theorem, and solving equations.  SBA preparation is continued.

Algebra 1

• Required course
• Grade: 8
• Course length: full year

This course introduces fundamental operation of equations and formulas, studies of ratio, proportion, variation, indirect measurements, polynomial operations, factoring and operation with radical expressions.  Students will solve equations (linear, quadratic and systems) and inequalities using graphing, substitution and/or addition.  The student is also introduced to principles governing system and set theory. 

Students must maintain a B- grade or above to be recommended for Geometry the following school year.

Algebra 1 provides one high school math credit upon successful completion. See transcript policy below.

Geometry

• Required course
• Grade: 8
• Course length: full year
• Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1)

This course will cover the core content as outlined by the math standards:  Logical arguments and proofs, lines and angles, two-and three-dimensional figures, geometry in the coordinate plane, geometric transformations and additional key content. 

This course provides one high school math credit upon successful completion. See transcript policy below.

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Transcript policy for high school credit math courses- taken during 7th and 8th grades.

Regarding high-school-credit math courses (Algebra & Geometry) taken during 7th or 8^th grade:     

• Grades will be posted to the students’ middle school transcript.
• Grades will be posted to the students’ high school transcript. 
• When posted to the high school transcript, the grades:
  • will accurately indicate when the class was taken
  • will be included in the student’s high school graduation credits and GPA

 

8th Grade Required Physical Fitness Courses

Physical Fitness

• Required course
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

This course is designed to improve the student's physical skills and knowledge through participation in both individual and team activities. Opportunities are provided to understand and improve cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility in addition to the social-emotional aspects of sport in an effort to promote lifelong fitness. 

Students choose one year-long elective and one semester-long elective or three semester-long electives.

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Semester-Long Elective Choices

Acting

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

Welcome to the world of theatre! Over the course of this semester, we will look at various aspects of performance including characterization, movement, voice, articulation, scene work, monologues, and play production. This is a great class for students who already have a love of drama as well as those who want to feel more comfortable speaking in front of people. The culminating project is a full play production with an evening performance. Memorization and participation are required.

Computer Aided Drafting and Design (CADD)

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester
• Prerequisite: Recommended- Algebra or higher math

This 18-week advanced class starts out by exploring how to use the computer-aided drafting program Rhino. This class spends about 70% of the time in the CADD and manufacturing computer lab and about 30% in the main STEM lab area. Students will be using Rhino to design 3D models of their projects they will be constructing in the shop. Once 3D models have been made on Rhino students will use a 3D printer, laser cutter, vinyl cutter or CNC router to make their projects. Advanced use of tools and equipment are used in project construction. Lecture and demonstrations will increase the student knowledge and skills while working on their projects.

Students who take this class and receive a “A” grade can waive “CADD Fundamentals prerequisite” in 9th grade and go directly into year-long “Advanced CADD/CAM.”

Note: It is okay to enroll in both Engineering 2 and CADD

Digital Production

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

In this class you will learn to produce content in a digital space. You will have choice over what you learn in this class and be able to pursue your passions as they relate to creating creative content in digital space. You can learn to create games, virtual reality spaces and games, beats and songs, websites and blogs, the basics of photography and photo editing, how to make animations, how to create digital art, coding and much more. This course will be done through Canvas, which will allow you to learn at a pace that is right for you. You will also have as much choice as possible when it comes to the topics you use as the basis for the work you do.  Examples of some of the content previous students have produced in this class can be found at Snocoders.com on the Virtual Travel, Advocacy Sites, Student Websites and Virtual Reality pages. 

Note: This class is a mix of 7^th and 8^th grade students and may have a lunch opposite of 8^th grade two days per week.

Drawing and Painting

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

Students who enjoy drawing or who would like to learn more about drawing would enjoy this      course! Students will create using multiple drawing and painting mixed media techniques. Working mostly with paper, students will explore many mediums such as pencil, charcoal, pastel, watercolor, printmaking, and collage.

Engineering 2

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

This 18-week exploratory S.T.E.M. course incorporates project-based learning with a focus on the engineering cycle. Students will apply problem solving, visual communication, and industrial skills to design and build challenging and exciting projects. Units of study include power tool safety & operation, manufacturing, electricity, applied physics, computer aided drafting & design (CADD), and structures. Projects include trebuchets, monster trucks, pinball machines, stick frame construction, pens and more.

Note: Engineering 1 is not a pre-requisite for this course.

Forensics

• Elective
• Grade: 7 and 8
• Course length: semester

Forensics is a perfect fit for students who like science and/or true crime. Students will apply science skills to learn how to collect, analyze and evaluate evidence found at crime scenes. Topics include: fingerprinting, DNA analysis, Forensic anthropology (bones), chromatography, Impression evidence (tire tracks/shoe prints/ tool marks), Arson investigation and chemical analysis and proper crime scene investigation. We will also explore true cases and how forensic evidence solved these cases. This class has a focus of hands-on learning and experimentation. 

Students cannot repeat Forensics if the class was taken in 7^th grade.

This class is a mix of 7^th and 8^th grade students and may have a lunch opposite of 8^th grade two days per week.

Family and Consumer Sciences 2

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

In this class students will be learning the essential concepts in cooking and food preparation. This is hands on learning where students learn to cook as a team, create a variety of tasty foods and have fun trying new things! Throughout this semester long class students will learn about nutrition, healthy meal planning from the "My Plate" guidelines, students will discuss budgeting and will do research on various careers. This is a fun, fast- paced class that keeps the students engaged and excited about learning and becoming more confident in the kitchen!

Leadership

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

This class is open to all students interested in developing leadership skills and creating a positive school culture. The class emphasis is the importance of communications, character development, personal growth and building strong relationship. Leadership is designed to empower and give students the opportunity to become successful leaders and contributors in the school and community. Through servant leadership, students will acquire knowledge, skills and experience towards demonstrating their leadership potential.

Sculpture

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

In this course, students will explore the 3D art of sculpture. If you enjoy working with your hands, then this class is for you! Students will learn the hand-building basics of clay and will create at least 2 ceramic sculptures within the semester. Students will also learn modern sculpture methods and techniques, such as plaster, wire, or paper mâché.

Team Sports

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

This course will include various sports with an emphasis on skills, strategy, and game play.  Activities may include but are not limited to: Flag football, softball, volleyball, badminton, soccer, and basketball.

Students may only take one semester of fitness electives.

Yoga

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester

In this class you will learn breathing techniques, specific yoga exercises including Hatha, Power, Sculpt, and PiYo. All varieties are designed to build strength and increase flexibility.  You will develop an understanding of how to use yoga to maximize your flexibility and strength, while protecting your body throughout life. 

Students may only take one semester of fitness electives.

Teacher Assistant (TA)

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: semester
• Prerequisite: Students will need to complete an application that requires the recommendation of two staff members before selecting this for an elective.  Teacher assistants will not select the teacher they work with.

TA’s will be assigned to a teacher, the library or the office to provide support to staff by working on such tasks as making copies, organizing materials, putting up bulletin boards, etc.  TA’s may also provide assistance to students in the teacher’s class who are struggling with their work.

Full-Year Elective Choices

Choir

• Elective
• Grade: 7 and 8
• Course length: full year

Choir is for 7th and 8th grade students who love to sing and perform.  Choir members learn to sing in three-part harmony, with some singing baritone parts and others divided into sopranos and altos.  Students will also learn to read a music score and to sight sing.  This group takes field trips, including one to an adjudicated Choral festival in May.  There are required evening concerts and occasional assembly performances.  Solo opportunities may be available for students who are interested. 

This class is a mix of 7^th and 8^th grade students and may have a lunch opposite of 8^th grade.

Concert Band

• Elective
• Grade: 8
• Course length: full year

Concert Band is for students with at least two years of experience playing a band instrument.  At a typical rehearsal we do warm-ups, sight reading, technique exercises and work on concert music.  This group performs in three evening school concerts, several school assemblies and takes at least 3 field trips to perform in band festivals and at our local elementary schools. In April we attend a band festival in British Columbia, Canada.

Note for new band students

This includes students with no experience, students with some band experience or those who wish to learn a new instrument.  If you are a new player or used to play an instrument but haven’t for a while you can still join Concert Band by taking Cadet Band first semester.  Instruction is offered on flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, sax, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone horn or tuba. Percussion is offered if there are openings in the Cadet or Concert Band, and percussionists are expected to practice and learn bells as well as snare drum. 

Students are required to provide their own instrument for this class, although some larger school-owned instruments like French horns, baritone horns and tubas may be available for checkout. Contact Mrs. Stout at 360-563-4554 for more information, or if you need help selecting or acquiring an instrument. 

Jazz Band

• Elective
• Grades: 7 and 8
• Course length: full year
• Prerequisites: Audition required, enrollment in beginning, cadet, concert band or choir
• Zero hour class- 6:30- 7:25 a.m.

Instruction focuses on jazz concepts such as improvisation, big band swing, jazz, rock, Latin styles and funk.  This is a performance-oriented group that takes three field trips to regional jazz festivals, plus required evening school concerts and one Saturday festival.

Auditions are held in the Spring, and private music instruction is highly recommended for interested students. For information about auditions, contact Mrs. Stout at 360-563-4554.

Students must arrange their own transportation to this class.

Beginning Band

• Elective
• Grades: 7 and 8
• Course length: full year

Beginning Band class offers individualized instruction designed to meet the needs of students with no previous band experience, students with some band experience, or those who may wish to learn a new instrument. Did you try band in 6th grade and not complete it? Did you want to participate in band but couldn’t get a ride to school? Did remote learning make it impossible for you to attend? This is the right class to get you involved in band. Instruction is offered on flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet family, sax family, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion. Percussionists will learn and practice bells as well as snare drum.  Some instruments are available for loan.  Contact Mrs. Stout at 360-563-4554 for information.