Course Registration Information

FULL YEAR - REQUIRED COURSES

LANGUAGE ARTS

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.

HONORS LANGUAGE ARTS

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. Honors 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

FULL YEAR - REQUIRED COURSES

WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY                                                                                                                              

The course will examine tribal Native American history, follow exploration and statehood formation and continue to present-day Washington State.  It will require students to become familiar with different concepts, ideas, groups and institutions that have had an impact on both the history and the contemporary situation of Washington State.  Washington State History focuses on the development of the State and the interactions of its peoples.  Study includes the political, social, economic, cultural and geographical conditions of Washington State and the surrounding regions and seeks to understand our relationship with the nation and the world.  Emphasis is put on inquiry-based research.   

This course is a High School graduation requirement.  In order to fulfill the requirement, students must pass at least one semester.

FULL YEAR - REQUIRED COURSES

7^th GRADE SCIENCE                                                                                                              

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.  

FULL YEAR- REQUIRED COURSES

MATHEMATICS

**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.

MATH 7

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

ACCELERATED MATH 7/8

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

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.

**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). 

Transcript policy for high-school-credit math courses taken during 7th & 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

SEMESTER- REQUIRED CLASSES

FOUNDATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY AND CHARACTER                                                                 

The goal of this class is to give every student the opportunity to learn foundational skills of being a successful student with strong character. One quarter of this semester long class will focus on student leadership, ensuring all students understand, and practice following through on what it means to have character and be a member of an academic and professional community. The other quarter of 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.

HEALTH AND FITNESS

This course is designed to improve the student's overall physical skills and knowledge by the presentation of both individual and team activities.  Opportunities are provided to develop physical fitness, sportsmanship, recreational skills and appreciation for good health habits.  Health curriculum is integrated into the weekly physical activities for students to identify what they can do to achieve their healthiest self

SEMESTER- ELECTIVES

INTRODUCTION to ART 

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!

DIGITAL PRODUCTION

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 http://snocode.weebly.com on the Virtual Travel, Advocacy Sites, Student Websites and Virtual Reality pages. 

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

EXPLORING ENGINEERING 1

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, CNC manufacturing, transportation, and computer aided drafting & design (CADD). Projects include mousetrap racers, EV3 robots, bridges, gumball machines, and more.

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES 1

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

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. 

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.

TEAM SPORTS

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.

FULL YEAR- CHOIR OR BAND ELECTIVE

CHOIR (Grades 7 and 8)

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.

 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 (Grades 7)

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 Mr. Wilkinson at 360-563-4554 or lane.wilkinson@sno.wednet.edu for more information, or if you need help selecting or acquiring an instrument.

JAZZ BAND (Grades 7 and 8)

AUDITION REQUIRED
PREREQUISITE: ENROLLMENT IN BEGINNING, CADET, CONCERT BAND OR CHOIR
ZERO HOUR CLASS (6:30-7:25 am)

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 early fall, and private music instruction is highly recommended for interested students. For information about auditions, contact Mr. Wilkinson at 360-563-4554 or lane.wilkinson@sno.wednet.edu. Students must arrange their own transportation to this class.

BEGINNING BAND (Grades 7 & 8) 

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 Mr. Wilkinson at 360-563-4554 for information.

Goal: Student access to and success in advanced English Language Arts courses

Interest, motivation, and perseverance indicators

Students who are successful in advanced courses:

• Demonstrate a high level of interest, academic engagement, and an innate curiosity to learn in courses of interest.
• Are highly self-motivated, take responsibility for their own learning, attend class regularly, complete quality assignments on time, and recognize that effort is important for success.
• Maintain a high standard in academic integrity.
• Successfully complete complex tasks that require extra time, thought, and perseverance.
• Examine and learn from errors, demonstrate a willingness to try different approaches, problem solve, make revisions to work throughout the learning process, seek help, and access available resources.
• Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher led)

Academic indicators

Students who are successful in advanced English Language Arts courses:

• Has a history of curiosity around language, reading, and writing.
• Reads two or more years above grade level.
• Demonstrates advanced reading and communication skills.
• Reads and writes beyond required assignments. Has a history of creating own reading and writing projects.
• Consistently shows interest in the details of language (word origins, grammar, sentence structure, etc.)

Middle school data teams will review data (SBA, Star, teacher input, grades) and above-mentioned indicators to confirm appropriate placement. Any changes necessary will be communicated.

FULL YEAR- REQUIRED COURSES

LANGUAGE ARTS

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.

HONORS LANGUAGE ARTS 

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. Honors 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

FULL YEAR- REQUIRED COURSES

UNITED STATES HISTORY

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.

FULL YEAR- REQUIRED COURSES

8^th GRADE SCIENCE 

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. 

FULL YEAR- REQUIRED COURSES

MATHEMATICS

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. 

Math 8 

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 

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 note on transcript policy*).

Geometry

(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 note on transcript policy*).

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

Regarding high-school-credit math courses (Algebra and 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

FULL YEAR- REQUIRED COURSE

HEALTH AND FITNESS

This course is designed to improve the student's overall physical skills and knowledge by the presentation of both individual and team activities.  Opportunities are provided to develop physical fitness, sportsmanship, recreational skills and appreciation for good health habits.  Health curriculum is integrated into the weekly physical activities for students to identify what they can do to achieve their healthiest self.

SEMESTER- ELECTIVES

COMPUTER AIDED DRAFTING and DESIGN (CADD)

(Algebra or higher math recommended)  

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.” *It is okay to enroll in both EXPLORING ENGINEERING II and CADD

DIGITAL PRODUCTION

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 http://snocode.weebly.com on the Virtual Travel, Advocacy Sites, Student Websites and Virtual Reality pages. 

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

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.

EXPLORING ENGINEERING 2

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/electronics, applied physics, computer aided drafting & design (CADD), and structures. Projects include monster trucks, hovercrafts, stick frame construction, trebuchets, and more.

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

FORENSICS

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. 

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

FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES 2             

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!

JROTC

*Leadership Education/JROTC 0.5 (High School Credit) Physical Education credit/Career and Technical Education credit. 

The Marine Corps Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps Program (MCJROTC) is a half credit practical leadership course that emphasizes development of qualities of leadership, self-discipline, honor, courage and integrity. Citizenship training is emphasized throughout every aspect of the MCJROTC Program. In addition, Cadets are acquainted with basic military skills and 30 Marine Corps traditions. The MCJROTC curriculum is designed to enable Cadets in the development of standards, traits and skills that provide foundations to future success – regardless of future career field. Leadership objectives will be met by standard classroom instruction, physical fitness training, close order drill, marksmanship, community service and interscholastic competitions.

ASB LEADERSHIP

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

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

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

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)

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

**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.

FULL YEAR- CHOIR OR RAND- ELECTIVE

CHOIR (Grades 7 and 8)

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 (Grade 8)

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 Mr. Wilkinson at 360-563-4554 or lane.wilkinson@sno.wednet.edu for more information, or if you need help selecting or acquiring an instrument. 

JAZZ BAND (Grades 7 and 8)

ZERO HOUR CLASS (6:30-7:25 am) **AUDITION REQUIRED

PREREQUISITE: ENROLLMENT IN BEGINNING, CADET, CONCERT BAND OR CHOIR

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 early fall, and private music instruction is highly recommended for interested students. For information about auditions, Contact Mr. Wilkinson at 360-563-4554 or lane.wilkinson@sno.wednet.edu.  Students must arrange their own transportation to this class. 

BEGINNING BAND (Grades 7 & 8)

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 Mr. Wilkinson (360-563-4554) or lane.wilkinson@sno.wednet.edu for more information, or if you need help selecting or acquiring an instrument. 

Goal: Student access to and success in advanced English Language Arts courses

Interest, motivation, and perseverance indicators

Students who are successful in advanced courses:

• Demonstrate a high level of interest, academic engagement, and an innate curiosity to learn in courses of interest.
• Are highly self-motivated, take responsibility for their own learning, attend class regularly, complete quality assignments on time, and recognize that effort is important for success.
• Maintain a high standard in academic integrity.
• Successfully complete complex tasks that require extra time, thought, and perseverance.
• Examine and learn from errors, demonstrate a willingness to try different approaches, problem solve, make revisions to work throughout the learning process, seek help, and access available resources.
• Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher led)

Academic indicators

Students who are successful in advanced English Language Arts courses:

• Has a history of curiosity around language, reading, and writing.
• Reads two or more years above grade level.
• Demonstrates advanced reading and communication skills.
• Reads and writes beyond required assignments. Has a history of creating own reading and writing projects.
• Consistently shows interest in the details of language (word origins, grammar, sentence structure, etc.)

Middle school data teams will review data (SBA, Star, teacher input, grades) and above-mentioned indicators to confirm appropriate placement. Any changes necessary will be communicated.