ENRICHMENT COURSES 2008-2009

The Scottsdale School District offers a middle school program designed to meet the academic, social, and emotional needs of the emerging adolescent. This middle school philosophy is demonstrated through the learning opportunities at each school in unique and diverse ways.

Enrichment courses are offered at each grade level to provide a greater breadth of learning. These courses are designed to complement, enhance, and integrate learning opportunities with the required curricula. Students may choose enrichment courses based on availability, staffing at their site, and space. Many of the enrichment courses are offered for multiple grade levels, while others are unique to a particular grade level. Students who choose year-long enrichment courses will have fewer opportunities than those students who participate in semester-long enrichments. PLEASE NOTE: The availability of all enrichment course offerings at each site will be unique and is dependent on staffing and space availability.

Band (Year long) 7th and 8th grades

Students will have the opportunity to experience the joy of creating and performing music while learning to play an instrument. Students learn basic to advanced rhythmic patterns, music theory and history, intonation, performance etiquette, and teamwork. Students perform in winter and spring concerts and festivals.

Computers (Semester) 7th and 8th grades

The Computer classes teach students how to use the computer as a tool. The curriculum is aligned with the State Technology Standards and District Core Curriculum Performance Objectives and includes: fundamental and advanced operations and concepts, touch typing, word processing, drawing, spreadsheets, Internet use, PowerPoint, and publishing skills. Easy Tech lessons from Learning.com, our online curriculum program, will be used.

Chorus (Semester) 7th and 8th grades

Students will have the opportunity to prepare and perform vocal selections in rehearsal and concert settings. Students learn to read notes and rhythms, learn basic music theory and history, and performance etiquette. Students perform in winter and spring concerts and festivals.

Physical Education (Semester) 7th and 8th grades

P.E. classes place a strong emphasis on the importance of students feeling good about themselves and having a positive self-image. Students learn about the value of exercise, proper nutrition, sun safety, cardiovascular fitness, health physiology and how to incorporate fitness into their everyday lifestyles. Our objective is to assist each student develop physically, emotionally, and mentally. We believe that these valuable skills will help students establish lifetime goals and appreciate the value of fitness. The pillars of character and good sportsmanship are incorporated into all activities including individual, team and lifetime sports as well as weight training, and fitness activities. Math, Technology, and Language Arts skills are required as students learn how to read food labels, calculate calories, create individualized food pyramids, and write physical fitness plans for life.

Spanish (Year long) 8th grade

This is a rigorous course with an emphasis placed on listening, reading, speaking, and writing to facilitate communication in the target language. Students are accepted into this class based on Language Arts/Humanities grades from the previous year, teacher recommendation, and parent approval. Vocabulary acquisition and a cultural overview are integral components of Level I coursework which is based on District and State standards. Students who complete the Level I course successfully may be considered for enrollment in Level II courses in high school. Students who are considering enrollment in the International Baccalaureate program in high school should plan to take Spanish I or French I in their 8th grade year.

Spanish Exploratory (Semester) 7th and 8th grade

The Exploratory Spanish utilizes the District adopted book Exploring Spanish and follows the Foreign Language Standards adopted by both the District and State. Emphasis is placed on the following areas: reading, writing, speaking and listening. This is an introductory class, designed to teach basic skills, and allow students to consider the pursuit of further language acquisition.

Speech and Literacy (Semester) 7th and 8th grades

This course will provide students with opportunities to enhance their communication and public speaking skills in order that they might gain self-confidence in their public speaking ability. Additional exposure to the literacy standards is emphasized. Students may examine historically significant speeches as one way to gain knowledge about the elements of good speeches and the techniques for excellent public speaking delivery. Students may be asked to both write and present speeches individually or in small groups or teams in order to reinforce the habits of effective public speaking. Dramatic presentations, debate, impromptu speeches and presentation of poems may be included as activities or opportunities for public speaking practice.

Orchestra/Strings (Year long) 7th and 8th grades

Students will have the opportunity to experience the joy of creating and performing music while learning to play a stringed instrument. Students learn basic to advanced rhythmic patterns, music theory and history, intonation, performance etiquette, and teamwork. Students perform in winter and spring concerts and festivals.

Visual Art (Semester) 7th and 8th grades

This class, which is based on the Arizona State and District Standards, provides and environment for students to grow both perceptually and cognitively, increasing their knowledge and skills Creating Art, Art in Context, and Art as Inquiry. Students will explore drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, and sculpture integrating cultural and historical concepts while applying the Elements and Principals of Design.

Family and Consumer Science (FACS) (Semester) 7th and 8th Grades