Art 6

[required, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Develop an understanding of the foundations of art.
• Explore world cultures and artists. 

Projects, Activities, etc.: Activities may include drawing, clay, sculpture, painting, printmaking and working with a variety of other materials

Instructional Focus: Instruction includes teacher guided art demonstrations; individual and/or group art projects; and opportunities for reflection and revising artwork

 

Art 7

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Focus on American art. This class explores American art and artists.
• Expand the understanding of the foundations of art, with a focus on revision and creation of an artist statement.

Projects, Activities, etc.: Activities may include working with a variety of materials in clay, sculpture, painting, drawing, crafts and design

Instructional Focus: Instruction includes teacher guided art demonstrations; individual and/or group art projects; and opportunities for reflection and revising artwork

 

Art 8

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Explore art as a personal journey
• Explore and expand knowledge of the foundations of art.
• Advance art skills using drawing, sculpture and painting with focus on revision

Projects, Activities, etc.: Activities may include drawing, painting, clay, sculpture, jewelry making and working with a variety of other materials. Student work reflects research, a developed plan, production and self-evaluation.

Instructional Focus: Instruction includes advanced teacher guided art demonstrations; individual and/or group art projects; and opportunities for reflection and revising artwork

Students performing below grade level in reading may be assigned to additional reading support courses.

  

English Language Arts 6

[full year, two periods]

Intended Audience: Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Read and analyze a variety of texts, focusing on making inferences and citing textual evidence to demonstrate understanding.
• Write daily, emphasizing the exploration of a wide variety of writing experiences.
• Develop language skills (including vocabulary, sentence structure, and grammar/ mechanics) as they relate to reading, writing and speaking. 
• Develop skills in listening, speaking, inquiry, and media literacy. 

Projects/Activities: Book clubs, informative writing assignments, research to support reading and writing, and independent reading.

Instructional Focus: Teachers will create daily reading, writing, and discussion  activities as students explore thematic units. Language work will be embedded within authentic reading, writing, and speaking experiences. Teachers will offer multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning. 

 

Advanced English Language Arts 6

[full year, two periods]

Intended Audience: Grade 6 students who are interested in reading, writing, and language; students who read and write above grade level 

Major Outcomes: 

• Read and analyze a variety of high-level texts, focusing on making inferences and citing textual evidence to demonstrate deep understanding. Read with an emphasis on interpretive/analytical and critical/evaluative reading.
• Write daily, emphasizing the exploration of a wide variety of writing experiences, including reflective writing. Work to polish writing and reflect on writing growth.
• Develop language skills (including vocabulary, sentence structure, and grammar/ mechanics) as they relate to reading, writing and speaking. 
• Develop skills in listening, speaking, inquiry, and media literacy. 

Projects/Activities: Book clubs, informative writing assignments, research to support reading and writing, and independent reading. 

Instructional Focus: The course will move at a faster pace than ELA 6. This will allow students to explore topics in greater depth. Teachers will create daily reading, writing, and discussion  activities as students explore thematic units. Language work will be embedded within authentic reading, writing, and speaking experiences. Teachers will offer multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning. 

 

English Language Arts 7

[full year, two periods]

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Read and analyze a variety of texts, focusing on theme and text structures, and citing textual evidence to demonstrate understanding.
• Write daily, with a wide variety of writing experiences, including an exploration of persuasive writing.
• Develop language skills (including vocabulary, sentence structure, and grammar/ mechanics) as they relate to reading, writing and speaking.
• Develop skills in listening, speaking, media literacy, and presentation of information. 

Projects/Activities: Book clubs, persuasive writing assignments, research to support reading and writing, and independent reading.

Instructional Focus: Teachers will create daily reading, writing, and discussion  activities as students explore thematic units. Language work will be embedded within authentic reading, writing, and speaking experiences. Teachers will offer multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning. 

 

Advanced English Language Arts 7

[full year, two periods]

Intended Audience: Grade 7 students who are interested in reading, writing, and language; students who read and write above grade level 

Major Outcomes:

• Read and analyze a variety of high-level texts, focusing on theme and text structures, and citing textual evidence to demonstrate deep understanding. Read with an emphasis on analyzing arguments and structure.
• Write daily, emphasizing the exploration of a wide variety of writing experiences, including persuasive writing. Focus on producing polished writing and reflecting on writing growth.
• Develop language skills (including vocabulary, sentence structure, and grammar/ mechanics) as they relate to reading, writing and speaking. Examine texts for loaded language.
• Develop skills in listening, speaking, media literacy, and presentation of information. 

Projects, Activities, etc.: Book clubs, genre study, persuasive writing assignments, research to support reading and writing, and independent reading. 

Instructional Focus: The course will move at a faster pace than ELA 7. This will allow students to explore topics in greater depth. Teachers will create daily reading, writing, and discussion  activities as students explore thematic units. Language work will be embedded within authentic reading, writing, and speaking experiences. Teachers will offer multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning. 

 

English Language Arts 8

[full year, two periods] 

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Read and analyze a variety of texts, focusing on the development of themes, and citing textual evidence to demonstrate understanding.
• Write daily, with a wide variety of writing experiences, including an exploration of persuasive writing.
• Develop language skills (including vocabulary, correct punctuation, and effective transitions) as they relate to reading, writing and speaking. 
• Develop skills in listening, speaking, media literacy, and persuasive presentations. 

Projects/Activities: Book clubs, persuasive writing assignments, research to support reading and writing, persuasive presentations, and independent reading. 

Instructional Focus: Teachers will create daily reading, writing, and discussion  activities as students explore thematic units. Language work will be embedded within authentic reading, writing, and speaking experiences. Teachers will offer multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning. 

 

Advanced English Language Arts 8

[full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 8 students who are interested in reading, writing, and language; students who read and write above grade level 

Major Outcomes:

• Read and analyze a variety of high-level texts, focusing on the development of multiple themes, and citing textual evidence to demonstrate deep understanding. Analyze literature and the structure of arguments.
• Write daily, emphasizing the exploration of a wide variety of writing experiences, including persuasive writing. Focus on producing polished writing and eliminating wordiness.
• Develop language skills (including vocabulary, sentence structure, and grammar/ mechanics) as they relate to reading, writing and speaking.
• Develop skills in listening, speaking, media literacy, and persuasive presentations. 

Projects/Activities: Book clubs, literary analysis essay, persuasive writing assignments, research to support reading and writing, persuasive presentations, and independent reading. 

Instructional Focus: The course will move at a faster pace than ELA 8. This will allow students to explore topics in greater depth. Teachers will create daily reading, writing, and discussion  activities as students explore thematic units. Language work will be embedded within authentic reading, writing, and speaking experiences. Teachers will offer multiple opportunities for students to demonstrate their learning. 

 

Reading Strategies 6, 7, 8

[full year]

Qualifying students will be placed in a reading intervention course [Reading Strategies 6, 7, or 8] in addition to their grade-level English course, based on state and district test scores as well as teacher recommendation.  For more information, please contact the Reading department leader at your child’s school.

 

Science Fiction

[JMS only]

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: 7th and 8th grade students interested in improving reading/writing, and/or scientific inquiry

Major Outcomes:

In this course students will:

• Examine the genre of science fiction alongside the non-fiction science that creates worlds and situations that can’t happen yet, and might never happen, but deal with the world we live in today
• Increase knowledge of history and nature of science through scientific inquiry
• Create print and non-print texts for different audiences and purposes
• Write effectively using the writing process (pre-writing, drafting, revising, editing, publishing)

Projects, Activities, etc.: Students will examine versions of science fiction in print and nonprint. Projects include inventing an item to be used in the future, designing a future society, researching a current problem in our world and proposing a solution in a presentation. Students will create their own science fiction writing piece. Discussions and presentations will be used to analyze science fiction. This course is designed for those who are already science fiction fans, as well as, those who want to improve reading and writing skills. There will be opportunities for creative and analytical work. Through reading, writing, and viewing science fiction, students will be prepared to tackle tomorrow’s problems.

Instructional Focus: Students will improve reading and writing skills in connection with scientific inquiry. Science fiction writes about tomorrow, but talks about today and this course will equip students with knowledge to better understand our world.

Family and Consumer Sciences 7

[required, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Explore nutrition, wellness, and food preparation practices. 
• Construct a basic sewing project and learn to care for clothing.
• Acquire skills for positive guidance and caregiving of children.
• Analyze a budget and a personal finance plan.
• Identify personal skills and interests related to career goals.

Projects, Activities, etc.:  Prepare recipes during culinary labs. Sew a simple project (pillowcase). Explore how children learn through play by playing! Play an interactive budgeting game. Explore career options based on their interests.

Instructional Focus: Hands-on activities to enhance learning, communication, and teamwork

 

Family and Consumer Sciences 8

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Focus on food preparation techniques and kitchen safety while in a culinary lab.
• Explore nutrition and identify the six essential nutrients.
• Enhance sewing skills. 
• Strengthen teamwork and leadership skills.

Projects, Activities, etc.: Prepare food using recipes, practice kitchen safety and sanitation, examine nutritional habits that impact health and wellness and complete a sewing project.

Instructional Focus: Hands-on activities to enhance learning, communication, and teamwork 

Health 6

[required, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Interrelationships of the Health Triangle (Hygiene, Growth & Development)
• Interpersonal Communication 
• Decision Making (Chemical Health)
• Accessing Professional Health services (Mental/Emotional Health)
• Self Management (Stress Management, First Aid)
• Advocacy (Chemical Health)

Instructional Focus: Curriculum is presented in a variety of methods including individual practice, gamified learning, small and large group discussions, guest presentations, real life simulations, and hands-on projects.

 

Health/Wellness 8

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Interpersonal Communication (Healthy Relationships)
• Goal Setting (Interrelationships of the Health Triangle)
• Identifying Influences (Nutrition and Chemical Health)
• Accessing Professional Health Services (Mental/Emotional Health)
• Accessing Information (Analyzing Validity of Health Resources)
• Self Management (Stress Management and First Aid)
• Advocacy (Non Communicable Disease)
• Students will have an opportunity to become First Aid/CPR Certified.

Instructional Focus: Curriculum is presented in a variety of methods including individual practice, gamified learning, small and large group discussions, guest presentations, real life simulations, and hands-on projects.

Students performing below grade level in mathematics may be assigned to additional mathematics support courses.

 

Middle School PreAlgebra 6

[full year]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: District Placement Process

Intended Audience: Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Problem solving and reasoning skills
• Fractions, decimals, percents
• Readiness for algebra concepts: equations, expressions, ratios, and rates
• Data  representations, probability and statistics
• 2- and 3-Dimensional figures

Instructional Focus: Instruction presented in a variety of ways, including use of manipulatives, discovery, small and large group discussions

 

Intermediate PreAlgebra 7

[full year]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: District Placement Process

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Application of integers, fractions, decimals and percents
• Evaluate expressions and solve one-step equations with variables and rational numbers
• Proportional reasoning
• Applications of probability and data representation
• 2- and 3-Dimensional figures 

Instructional Focus: Instruction presented in a variety of ways, including large group discussion and active participation

 

Middle School Algebra 8

[full year]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: District Placement Process

Intended Audience: Grade 8, [Accelerated Grade 6 and 7]

Major Outcomes:

• Solution of equations
• Linear functions
• Properties of exponents

Instructional Focus: Instruction presented in a variety of ways, including use of manipulatives, discovery and small and large group discussions

 

Honors HS Intermediate Algebra

[full year]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: Middle School Algebra

Intended Audience: Accelerated Grades 7 and 8

Credit: 1.0 high school credit earned with passing grade*

Major Outcomes: This course continues the extensive, connected, and applied study of Mathematics from previous courses. Emphasis is on the development of multiple strategies to solve problems and to recognize multiple ways of understanding concepts, especially as it pertains to quadratic and exponential functions. It has strong threads woven throughout the course focusing on multiple representations, justifying thinking, and communicating the meaning of a solution. The topics covered in the course are:

• Functions, Linear Relationships
• Simplifying and Solving
• Sequences
• Modeling Two-Variable Data
• Exponential Functions
• Quadratic Functions
• Solving Quadratic and Inequalities

Instructional Focus: Instruction presented in a variety of ways; some hands-on activities and the use of a graphing calculator

 

Honors HS Geometry

[full year]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: Honors HS Intermediate Algebra

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Credit: 1.0 high school credit earned with passing grade*

Major Outcomes:

This course continues the extensive, connected, and applied study of Mathematics from previous courses.  It has strong threads woven throughout the course focusing on multiple representations, justifying thinking, and communicating the meaning of a solution. The topics covered in the course are:

• Shapes and Transformations
• Angles and Measurement
• Justification and Similarity
• Congruent Triangles
• Proof and Quadrilaterals
• Polygons and Circles
• Solids and Constructions
• Circles and Conditional Probability
• Solids and Circles

Instructional Focus: Instruction presented in a variety of ways; some hands-on activities, and more in-depth study of content

*Offered as high school credit; grades from this high school course may be reflected on high school transcript.

 

Honors Advanced Mathematics

[full year]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: District Placement Process

Credit: Credit will vary depending upon the mathematics completed*

Intended Audience: Grades 7 and 8; designed for students who are mathematically gifted and perform significantly above grade level

Major Outcomes:

• Become proficient problem solvers using a variety of strategies
• Apply appropriate mathematical skills to real world situations
• Effectively communicate mathematical learning 

Instructional Focus: Individually paced instruction with a variety of instructional strategies

*Offered as high school credit; grades from this high school course may be reflected on high school transcript.

Band 6

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Learn the beginning elements of playing a band instrument
• Produce a characteristic tone and perform in an ensemble

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

 

Beginning Band 7 

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 7 students who did not take band in grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Learn the beginning elements of playing a band instrument
• Produce a characteristic tone and perform in an ensemble

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

Instructional Sequence: Upon completion of course, students would enroll in grade 8 band

 

Band 7

[elective, every other day]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: Band 6 or teacher permission

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Increase understanding of tone quality, intonation/pitch, rhythm/meter, technique and interpretation
• Expand instrumental skills playing music from many historical periods and styles
• Learn improvisation skills 

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

 

Beginning Band 8

[elective, every day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8 students who did not take band in grade 6 or grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Learn the beginning elements of playing a band instrument
• Produce a characteristic tone and perform in an ensemble

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction 

Instructional Sequence: Upon completion of this course, students would enroll in grade 9 band

 

Band 8

[elective, every day]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: Band 7 or teacher permission

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Advanced levels of skill development and musicianship
• Focus on the finer nuances of musical performance

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

 

Choir 6

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Learn to use singing voice correctly
• Perform a variety of styles of music from different cultures and historical periods
• Study the elements of music and gain reading and notating skills
• Collaborate as an ensemble to prepare and perform music

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

 

Choir 7

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Sing and perform a variety of styles of music
• Increase understanding of tone quality, intonation/pitch, rhythm/meter, technique and interpretation
• Develop vocal skills and musicianship
• Collaborate as an ensemble to prepare and perform music 

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and create an original composition

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

 

Choir 8

[elective, every day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Sing and perform a variety of styles of music
• Develop vocal skills and musicianship
• Collaborate as an ensemble to prepare and perform music

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in large vocal ensembles and in small groups

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

 

Orchestra 6

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Learn the beginning elements of playing an orchestra instrument
• Produce good tone and perform in an ensemble

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

 

Beginning Orchestra 7

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 7 students who did not take orchestra in grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Learn the beginning elements of playing an orchestra instrument
• Produce a good tone and perform in an ensemble

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction 

Instructional Sequence: Upon completion of course, students would enroll in grade 8 orchestra

 

Orchestra 7

[elective, every other day]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: Orchestra 6 or teacher permission

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Increase understanding of tone quality, intonation/pitch, rhythm/meter, technique and interpretation
• Introduce to orchestra ensemble playing with an emphasis on the bow stroke and fundamentals of music
• Learn improvisation skills

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts, create an original composition and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

 

Beginning Orchestra 8 

[elective, every day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8 students who did not take orchestra in grade 6 or grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Learn the beginning elements of playing an orchestra instrument
• Produce a good tone and perform in an ensemble

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

Instructional Sequence: Upon completion of this course, students would enroll in grade 9 orchestra

 

Orchestra 8

[elective, every day]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: Orchestra 7 or teacher permission

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Advance skill development and musicianship
• Focus on the finer nuances of musical performance

Projects, Activities, etc.: Perform in concerts and independent practice

Instructional Focus: Group instruction

Physical Education 6

[every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• To provide students with developmentally appropriate learning opportunities with meaningful content and instruction. All students will develop health-related fitness, physical competence, cognitive understanding and positive attitudes about physical activity that promotes a healthy and physically active lifestyle.  
• Students will participate in cooperative learning activities with a focus on basic motor skills while engaging in activities for lifetime fitness.  
• Students will become physically literate.
• Students will exhibit responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others.

Instructional Focus: Embedded throughout the curriculum is a structure that promotes character building, cooperation, teamwork and decision making. Students will participate in a variety of activities that may include: basketball, floor hockey, football, soccer, volleyball, dance, fitness, softball, team handball, racquet sports and winter outdoor activities. Skill assessment is completed in an individual task/drill setting.

 

Physical Education 7

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• To provide students with developmentally appropriate learning opportunities with meaningful content and instruction. All students will develop health-related fitness, physical competence, cognitive understanding and positive attitudes about physical activity that promotes a healthy and physically active lifestyle.  
• Students will participate in cooperative learning activities with a focus on basic motor skills while engaging in activities for lifetime fitness.  
• Students will become physically literate.
• Students will exhibit responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others. 

Instructional Focus: Embedded throughout the curriculum is a structure that promotes character building, cooperation, teamwork and decision making. Students will participate in a variety of activities that may include: basketball, floor hockey, football, soccer, volleyball, dance, fitness, softball, team handball, racquet sports and winter outdoor activities.  Skill assessment is completed in a combination of individual tasks in drill and game settings.

 

Physical Education 8

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• To provide students with developmentally appropriate learning opportunities with meaningful content and instruction. All students will develop health-related fitness, physical competence, cognitive understanding and positive attitudes about physical activity that promotes a healthy and physically active lifestyle.  
• Students will participate in cooperative learning activities with a focus on basic motor skills while engaging in activities for lifetime fitness.  
• Students will become physically literate.
• Students will exhibit responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others.

Instructional Focus: Embedded throughout the curriculum is a structure that promotes character building, cooperation, teamwork and decision making. Students will participate in a variety of activities that may include: basketball, floor hockey, football, soccer, volleyball, dance, fitness, softball, team handball, racquet sports and winter outdoor activities. Skill assessment is completed in game settings.

 

Physical Education: Fitness

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grades 7 and 8

Major Outcomes:

• Personal fitness
• Engage in activities for lifetime fitness
• Students will exhibit responsible personal and social behavior that respects self and others.

Instructional Focus: This class will fulfill the needs of students who want to stay active, but want to concentrate more on individual, non-competitive and/or cooperative activities. Students will participate in a variety of activities that may include cardiovascular activities, circuits, walking, running, and individual weight training. Students will be introduced to different types of fitness equipment.

Science 6

[full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Increase knowledge of the nature of science and engineering processes through inquiry and experimental design
• Explore astronomy with a focus on the Sun, Earth, and Moon
• Develop an understanding of the geologic processes that shape the Earth
• Review the hydrologic cycle and its impact on water sources
• Understand the meteorological processes that drive weather and climate

Projects, Activities, etc.: May include explorations of moon phases, rock and mineral identification, geologic modeling, weather data collection

Instructional Focus: Students will work individually as well as in small groups. They will be involved in inquiry-based experiments, investigations of relevant topics, model design and creation, observation, data collection, and analysis.

Note: Science is in the process of shifting to new Minnesota state science standards. During this transition, some units of study and projects may be taught at a different middle school grade level.

 

Advanced Science 6

[full year]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: District Placement Process

Intended Audience: Grade 6 students with a high interest in Earth science topics and strong problem-solving, reading, and math skills

Major Outcomes:

• Advanced Science 6 addresses the same Minnesota science standards as Science 6. Students in this course will move through the basic concepts at a quicker pace to allow for more in-depth study. There will be a greater emphasis on data collection and analysis. In addition, students in this course will work more independently and conduct additional research outside the school day.
• Increase knowledge of the nature of science and engineering processes through inquiry and experimental design
• Explore astronomy with a focus on the Sun, Earth, and Moon
• Develop an understanding of the geologic processes that shape the Earth
• Review the hydrologic cycle and its impact on water sources
• Understand the meteorological processes that drive weather and climate

Projects, Activities, etc.: May include explorations of moon phases, rock and mineral identification, geologic modeling, and weather data collection. Students will present the results of an experimental project or a research and an engineering project. Participation in the District STEM Fair is strongly encouraged.

Instructional Focus: Students will work individually as well as in small groups. They will be involved in inquiry-based experiments, investigations of relevant topics, model design and creation, observation, data collection, and analysis.

Note: Science is in the process of shifting to new Minnesota state science standards. During this transition, some units of study and projects may be taught at a different middle school grade level.

 

Science 7

[full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes: Students will use models, engineering, analysis of data and critical thinking skills to explore and create a deeper understanding of the following concepts:

• Cells
• Human Body
• Genetics
• Evolution
• Ecology

Projects, Activities, etc.: May include cell labs, microscope use, cell models, ADAM human body software, owl pellet field study, dissections, and ecosystem models

Instructional Focus: Students will work individually, as well as in small and large groups. They will be involved in hands-on experiments, dissections, investigations, model design and creation, engineering process, observations, data collection and analysis.

Note: Science is in the process of shifting to new Minnesota state science standards. During this transition, some units of study and projects may be taught at a different middle school grade level.

 

Advanced Science 7  

[full year]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: District Placement Process

Intended Audience: Grade 7 students with a high interest in life science topics and strong problem-solving, reading, and math skills

Major Outcomes: Students will use models, engineering, analysis of data and critical think- ing skills to explore and create a deeper understanding of the following concepts:

• Cells
• Human Body
• Genetics
• Evolution
• Ecology

This course will address the same Minnesota science standards as Science 7, but at an accelerated pace to allow for increased depth and integrated use of technology.

Projects, Activities, etc.: These will include lab investigations, argument driven inquiry, field studies and use of computer technology. Students will present the results of an experimental project or a research and an engineering project (Capstone). Participation in the District STEM Fair is strongly encouraged.

Instructional Focus: Students will work individually, as well as in small and large groups. They will be involved in hands-on experiments, dissections, investigations, model design and creation, engineering process, observations, data collection and analysis.

Note: Science is in the process of shifting to new Minnesota state science standards. During this transition, some units of study and projects may be taught at a different middle school grade level.

 

Science 8

[full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Knowledge of basic concepts related to force, motion and energy
• Knowledge of the structure of matter
• Apply understandings about matter and energy to everyday life

Projects, Activities, etc.: Projects and activities may include individual or group investigations, that are both student and teacher directed that may involve forces and motion, energy transformations, and forces of nature.

Instructional Focus: Students will make in-depth observations, ask questions, and generate creative valid explanations.   They will be involved in experimental design, investigations, and designing and testing models.  Students will be encouraged to apply skills and concepts to their everyday lives.

Note: Science is in the process of shifting to new Minnesota state science standards. During this transition, some units of study and projects may be taught at a different middle school grade level.

 

Advanced Science 8

[full year]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: District Placement Process

Intended Audience: Grade 8 students with a high interest in physical science topics and strong problem-solving, reading, and math skills

Major Outcomes:

• Knowledge of basic concepts related to force, motion and energy
• Knowledge of the structure of matter
• Apply understandings about matter and energy to everyday life

This course will address the same Minnesota science standards as Science 8, but at an accelerated pace to allow for increased depth and integrated use of technology.

Projects, Activities, etc.: Projects and activities may include individual or group investigations, that are both student and teacher directed that may involve forces and motion, energy transformations, and forces of nature.

Instructional Focus: Designed for the more independent science learner. The investigations will encourage higher order thinking and will have an increased pace and rigor. Students will make in-depth observations, ask questions, and generate creative valid explanations.   They will be involved in experimental design, investigations, and designing and testing models. Students will be encouraged to apply skills and concepts to their everyday lives.

Note: Science is in the process of shifting to new Minnesota state science standards. During this transition, some units of study and projects may be taught at a different middle school grade level.

 

Astronomy

[JMS only]

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Learn about the properties of stars and the constellations they belong to
• Explore our Solar System with an emphasis on the terrestrial planets and the larger moons of the Solar System
• Develop an appreciation of the history of the American space program and the impact that NASA has made
• Explore current events in space

Projects,Activities, etc.: Construct a star wheel, utilize the Jackson Middle School Observatory [JMO], analyze light using a spectroscope, engineering projects to explore space travel concepts, investigating geologic features of our terrestrial planets and moons of the solar system.

Instructional Focus: Students will work individually and collaboratively on assignments.  Students will utilize math, science, and research skills throughout the year.  Evening “public viewing” sessions will be available at the JMO throughout the year.

 

Environmental Science

[JMS only]

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Characterize the biomes found in MN and around the world by the interactions of biotic and abiotic factors
• Understand how the Earth works as a system by the interaction of the biosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere staying in balance
• Understand the tools used by the environmental scientist to investigate our world
• Learn about global and local environmental issues such as global climate change, water pollution, air pollution, and invasive species

Projects, Activities, etc.: Field skills will be put into practice in the prairies, wetlands and forests around JMS. Webquests will guide student research on the Earth’s biomes and spheres. Remote sensing tools will allow students to study human impact on ecosystems.   Field studies will be done at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Reserve. Classes will design, and carry out a service learning project on an environmental issue of their choice.

Instructional Focus: Students will work on problem analysis and research; field skills will be developed with outdoor/hands-on class activities.

Minnesota Studies 6

[full year]

Intended Audience:  Grade 6

Major Outcomes:

• Students study Minnesota history and its government, placing the state and its people within context of the national story
• Engage in historical inquiry and study events, issues and individuals significant to Minnesota history
• Analyze the state’s physical features and how the location of resources affected settlement patterns and the growth of cities
• Learn about economics
• Learn about the unique role Minnesota played, and continues to play, in regional, national and global events
• Study current events and analyze their global impact

Instructional Focus: Instruction is presented in a variety of way such as: class discussion, small and large group activities, simulations, and the use of technologies.

 

United States Studies 7

[full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Grade seven features history as the lead discipline
• The interdisciplinary “Studies” approach is further enhanced with important government, citizenship, economics and geography content that round out the study of United States history
• Learn about people, issues and events of significance to this nation’s history from 1800 to the current era of globalization
• Examine the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, and Supreme Court decisions for their lasting impact on the American people

Projects, Activities, etc.: Students create and use detailed maps of places in the United States and conduct historical inquiry on a topic in the nation’s history

Instructional Focus: Instruction is presented in a variety of ways: class discussion, small and large group activities, simulations and the use of technologies

 

Global Studies 8

[full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Understand the relationship between physical and human geography throughout each region of the world
• Create and interpret a variety of maps, calculate and estimate distance, scale, density and spatial distribution patterns around the world
• Demonstrate basic knowledge of economic principles
• Study current events and analyze their global impact

Instructional Focus: Instruction is presented in a variety of ways: class discussion, small and large group activities, simulations, and the use of technology and geographical tools

Students with disabilities will be placed in support services courses as determined by their special education needs relating to their disability as outlined in their Individual Education Plan [IEP]. For more information about the Special Education program in general, please see the Assistance for Students section on page 18 of the registration guide. For individual student service questions, please contact your child’s case manager.

Study Hall

[elective, every other day or full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Improve homework completion, organization and study skills

Instructional Focus: Provide the opportunity for students to independently complete assignments in a quiet setting during the regular school day

Technology Education 7

[elective or required, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 7

Major Outcomes:

• Produce various items by using computer generated graphic designs and CAD drawings
• Increase technological literacy and investigate emerging technologies
• Learn the processes to design, build, and test products, and become a wiser consumer of technology
• Integrated STEM activities = Science, Technology, Engineering, Math
• Develop safe work habits in a laboratory environment
• Applied math/technical reading

Projects, Activities, etc.: Use various tools and machines to make wood or sheet metal projects. Create 3-D printed designs and dye sublimation items from computer generated student work.

Instructional Focus: This is a hands-on course in which students engage in traditional and computer led instruction utilizing both individual and group activities.

 

Engineering, Aerospace and Design

[elective or required, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grades 7 and 8 

This course may replace the Technical Education requirement in grade 7.

Major Outcomes:

• Experience a scientific environment involving design, creativity, and team problem solving.
• Understand the engineering process from
  concept to production.
• Explore how science has affected technol-
  ogy throughout history by looking at concepts in physics.
• Explore the science behind aeronautics and
  use software to experience space travel.

Projects, Activities, etc.: Hands-on and design experiences are integrated throughout the course. Some activities include designing and creating a chain reaction contraption (Rube Goldberg), designing a medical device, and aircraft exploration. Students will be introduced to various software throughout the course such as 3D-CAD and on-line resources to provide enriched learning experiences.

Instructional Focus: This course includes the PLTW units "Flight and Space" and "Design and Modeling." This class is a part of a nationally recognized pre-engineering program called Project Lead the Way Gateway To Technology. The program goal is to develop more engineers, including project based units in design, modeling, flight, and space. This course emphasizes high levels of academic rigor and computer literacy. Coursework includes both individual and collaborative activities that must be completed as an integral part of this course. Authentic, real-world problem solving skills are emphasized throughout the class. This is an academically challenging course and is best suited for a motivated, collaborative learner.

 

Engineering: Architecture and Robotics

[elective, every other day]

Prerequisite/Selection Process: Engineering: Aerospace and Design strongly encouraged

Intended Audience:  Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Experience a scientific environment involving design, creativity, and team problem solving
• Learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems
• Investigate architectural plans, construction styles, alternative materials and processes, dimensioning, measuring and architectural sustainability

Projects, Activities, etc.: Students are introduced to the influence of automation and robotics in our world and use a robust robotics platform to design, build and program a solution to solve an existing problem. Additional hands-on student experiences are integrated throughout the course including 3D architectural software program to create an environmentally friendly home using shipping containers.

Instructional Focus: This course emphasizes high levels of academic rigor and computer literacy. Homework is an integral part of this course and students must be independently motivated to complete it in a timely manner. This class combines key pre-engineering content areas through a nationally recognized program called Project Lead the Way: Gateway. This course includes the PLTW units “Green Architecture” and “Automation and Robotics.” The goal of the program is to develop more American engineers through authentic, real-world problem solving. This is an academically challenging pre-engineering course and is best suited for a motivated, collaborative learner.

 

Creative Innovations

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Develop skills to manipulate digital media using computer editing software
• Build variety of power and transportation model projects
• Explore the use of multimedia devices and modern electronics
• Incorporate STEM [Science, Technology, Engineering & Math] into all facets of learning
• Real world applications of math and technical reading

Projects, Activities, etc.: Projects may include: taking, editing, and creating digital images and videos; building model rockets, aircraft, CO2 cars, shock boxes and robotics.  This class will focus on the creative design process and will maintain hands-on approach to learning.

Instructional Focus: This is a hands-on course in which students engage in a combination of both individual and group activities using technology.

 

Design and Manufacturing

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Major Outcomes:

• Learn the process of designing, building and testing products
• Incorporates  CADD   [Computer-Aided Drafting Design]
• Applied math/technical reading

Projects, Activities, etc.: Sheet metal or wood projects utilizing production technologies to create items such as, exploring new materials and advanced processes to create additional  products.  Examples; clocks, chairs, and mirror frames.

Instructional Focus: This is a hands-on course in which students engage in a combination of both individual and group activities exploring technology.

Teacher recommendation may be used for placement.

 

Attention native or heritage speakers of Spanish, French or German: Level I Spanish, German, and French courses are designed for students with little or no experience in the language. If you already speak Spanish, German, or French at home, consider learning a third language as a beginner along with your peers.

  

Exploring World Languages and Cultures

[elective, every other day]

Intended Audience: Grades 7 and 8

Major Outcomes:

• Understand and use basic phrases [emphasis on French, German, and Spanish]
• Develop an appreciation of other cultures
• Gain experience that will guide students’ selection of future language study

Instructional Focus: Students will engage in activities using the languages to promote skills in speaking, reading, listening, and writing. Connections will be made between language and culture using music, food, readings, videos, and/or games.

 

French I

[elective, full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Credit: 1.0 high school credit earned with passing grade*

Major Outcomes:

• Communicate about everyday topics
• Learn basic sentence structure
• Gain cultural awareness of French-speaking countries

Projects, Activities, etc.: Individual, small and large group interactive learning activities that will get students communicating in French about their everyday lives at home and in the community.

Instructional Focus: Students will learn to communicate about self, friends, family and daily life in French.  Skill building in speaking, listening, reading and writing.

*Offered as high school credit; grades will be reflected on high school transcript.

 

German I

[elective, full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Credit: 1.0 high school credit earned with passing grade*

Major Outcomes:

• Communicate about everyday topics
• Learn basic sentence structure
• Gain cultural awareness of German-speaking countries

Projects, Activities, etc.: Individual, small and large group interactive learning activities that will get students communicating in German about their everyday lives at home and in the community.

Instructional Focus: Students will learn to communicate about self, friends, family and daily life in German.  Skill building in speaking, listening, reading and writing.

*Offered as high school credit; grades will be reflected on high school transcript

 

Spanish I 

[elective, full year]

Intended Audience: Grade 8

Credit: 1.0 high school credit earned with passing grade*

Major Outcomes:

• Communicate about everyday topics
• Learn basic sentence structure
• Gain cultural awareness of Spanish-speaking countries

Projects, Activities, etc.: Individual, small and large group interactive learning activities that will get students communicating in Spanish about their everyday lives at home and in the community.

Instructional Focus: Students will learn to communicate about self, friends, family and daily life in Spanish.  Skill building in speaking, listening, reading and writing.

*Offered as high school credit; grades will be reflected on high school transcript