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Course Descriptions 7th Grade
ENGLISH..........Full Year
This course is an integrated program consisting of library, grammar, composition, literature, and speech. The students develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, listening, studying, and researching.
LIFE SCIENCE..........Full Year
This course covers the scientific method, some of the tools used in the study of science, and laboratory methods. Subjects studied vary from sub-microscopic particles to the biosphere. We explore the 5 major kingdoms: bacteria, protists, fungi, plants and animals. We also study and discuss mankind's relationship of interacting with the many different types of ecosystems.
GLOBAL STUDIES WESTERN HEMISPHERE/NORTH DAKOTA STUDIES......Full Year
"The Western Hemisphere" is a course that examines Antarctica, South America, Central America, the West Indies, and the United States and Canada. Special emphasis is placed on the interdependence of these regions in the areas of economics, culture, religion, trade, and government. Also included is North Dakota Studies, which reviews various aspects of the geography of North Dakota including location, regions, products, and its relationship to other locations in the world.
READING/COMMUNICATIONS..........Semester
This semester course furthers the development of critical reading skills in vocabulary, interpretation, speed, accuracy, work study, listening, and comprehension.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION..........Semester
This is a semester course that introduces life time sports and activities. It promotes and encourages a healthy life style. Some of the sports and activities include fitness testing, running, exercising, softball, soccer, flag football, basketball, volleyball, rhythmus, aerobics, archery, and badminton.
MATH 7..........Full Year
The choice of most seventh graders, Math 7, reviews the four operations with whole numbers, fractions, and decimals. The three types of percents plus formulas for perimeter, area, volume, and prime factoring are studied.
MATH 8..........Full Year
Math 8 introduces the student to working with integers, solving two operations equations, adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing rational numbers. It teaches students to solve problems algebraically, multiplying and factoring monomial and polynomials, and graphing. Students will be recommended for Math 8 based upon their performance on the math assessment test the district math standing committee administers in late spring, their math scores indicated on the CTBS, MAP assessment, and their grades received in elementary math. Other criteria such as involvement in co-curricular activities, capacity for daily homework, recommendation of sixth grade teacher, study habits, etc., should also be considered.
INTRODUCTION TO FOREIGN LANGUAGE 7.........9 Weeks
The purpose of this nine weeks course is to introduce students to foreign languages. Learn about different world cultures, languages, and traditions. Get a taste of the foreign language before the full year elective in ninth grade.
BAND..........Full Year
The band meets daily, with basic fundamentals being taught. They will perform at concerts and may participate in the music festival as a soloist or in an ensemble. The Jazz Band is an extra curricular activity and auditions are held in the fall for this group.
CHOIR..........Semester/Full Year
A vocal elective for music students, this class meets daily for one semester or the full year. Music reading, vocalizing, and harmonizing are stressed. This group performs at concerts. Members of 7th grade choir have the opportunity to participate in ACDA honor choirs and elementary music festival. A SHOW CHOIR is made up of many members of the Concert Choir who are enrolled an entire year of choir and members are selected by audition. The Show Choir is extracurricular and it performs popular, choreographed music at concerts and other functions.
ORCHESTRA..........Full year
Playing skills and music theory activities are utilized to develop a well-rounded orchestral player. Required performances include school concerts and tour opportunities.
ART 7.........Semester
This standards-based-course provides students opportunities to develop an appreciation for the visual arts. Classroom activities provide students with a variety of experiences in art theory and practice. Projects in drawing, painting, ceramics, design, along with some art history create an environment to develop an interest and appreciation for visual arts. Art fee of $8.00. Some art supplies included with art fee.
EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY 7.........9 weeks
This course expands on the world of technology and basic application. Students will engage in real life applications exploring engineering concepts, construction, testing and other engaging activities. Hands on activities may include rockets, woodworking, drafting and design, electronics and flight. Lab fee of $15.00
F.A.C.S. 7 (Family and Consumer Science)..........9 weeks
This course is designed to expose students to a broad range of daily living skills. Students will explore areas of nutritious snacking, child care, sewing skills, and clothing care. Lab fee from $5.00-$10.00.
GRADE 7 KEYBOARDING..........9 weeks
This is an introductory course in keyboarding. The student will be introduced to the workings of an IBM compatible computer and several different types of software. The main focus of the course is to teach the student the touch method of keyboarding, learning the correct method of keying the alphabet and numbers with the correct fingers, on a standard keyboard. The student will be graded on speed, accuracy, and technique.
COMMUNICATIONS..........9 weeks
In this class, students will sharpen their communication skills by exploring written and electronic forms of communications. Technology will be used to create student and group projects throughout the quarter. Creative writing and video projects are all possible activities for the quarter.
STUDY PERIOD..........9 weeks
This period provides an opportunity for students to study in a supervised environment with tutor assistance available.
Revised Jan08
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Course Descriptions 8th Grade
ENGLISH..........Full year
This course covers grammar, the eight parts of speech and their usage, and composition including sentence and paragraph writing as the areas of main concern the first semester, along with drama and the short story. The second semester will include study of the novel, poetry, and the short story, and composition activities with these units. Vocabulary and spelling are an important part of both semesters' work.
UNITED STATES HISTORY/NORTH DAKOTA STUDIES..........Full year
This course covers the growth of the United States from the time of ancient Indian societies to the present day. It includes a study of the United States Constitution and places special emphasis on the 19th Century.
EARTH SCIENCE..........Full year
Earth Science consists of one semester of geology, and one quarter each of astronomy and weather. The course discusses all forms of earth's processes.
HEALTH..........Semester
This is a semester course designed for influencing the behavior of the individuals and improving their understanding of physical, mental and social health. Topics covered include chemical dependence, stress, mental health, nutrition, human sexuality, and the life cycle.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION..........Semester
Physical fitness testing occurs each year. The following units are done throughout the semester: soccer, flag football, jogging, physical fitness, badminton, volleyball, archery, square dancing, and basketball.
MATH 8..........Full year
Math 8 introduces the student to working with integers, solving two operations equations, adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing rational numbers. It teaches them to solve problems algebraically, multiplying and factoring monomial and polynomials, and graphing.
ALGEBRA I..........1 credit..........Full year (This is a class that carries high school credit and counts on a student's high school grade point average.)
Algebra I is a branch of mathematics that includes the use of variables to express general rules about numbers, number relationships, and operations. This is the first course in the traditional college preparatory sequence. This course will also be beneficial for anyone interested in a career in technical education.
8th BAND..........Full year
Emphasis is placed on music fundamentals. The students perform at concerts, and may participate in the music festival as a soloist or in an ensemble. They have a unit on marching band in the spring. The Jazz Band is an extra curricular activity and auditions are held in the fall for this group.
CHOIR..........Semester/Full year
A vocal elective for music students, this class meets daily for one semester or the full year. Music reading, proper vocalization, and harmonizing are stressed. This group performs all types of music and performs concerts and other performances. Members of 8th grade choir have the opportunity to participate in ACDA honor choirs and elementary music festival. A SHOW CHOIR is made up of many members of the Concert Choir who are enrolled an entire year of choir and members are selected by audition. The Show Choir is extracurricular and it performs popular, choreographed music at concerts and other functions.
ORCHESTRA..........Full year - (Early Bird 7:15 a.m. - 8:05 a.m.)
This elective combines string players from grades eight, and nine. Playing skills and music theory activities are utilized to develop a well-rounded orchestral player. Required performances include school concerts and tour opportunities.
APPLYING TECHNOLOGY..........9 weeks
This is a modular technology course that engages the students in hands on application through computer-guided instruction. Modules may include: Simple Machines, Lights and Lasers, Electronics, CNC Manufacturing, Energy, Power and Machines, Engineering Towers, Flight Technology, Robotics, Plastics and Small Engines. The course will also present the students with various opportunities to explore careers and other activities. Hands on projects may include CO2 Cars and a wooden stool. Lab Fee $20.00
F.A.C.S. 8 (Family and Consumer Science)..........9 weeks
This course is designed to teach hands-on skills. Application of academic concepts, such as math skills, that are related to measuring in sewing and cooking. Following directions is emphasized in the sewing and cooking units. Food preparation and nutrition provide real life experiences from the present to the future. Lab fee $10.00-$15.00 depending on project.
ART 8..........Semester
This elective class expands on the seventh grade standards-based art curriculum with additional opportunities in art theory and practice. The students broaden their art experiences through a variety of activities in drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, print making, and art history. Art fee $5.00. Some art supplies are included with the art fee.
SERVICE LEARNING..........9 weeks
Service Learning encourages students to learn about volunteerism. "Hands on" service projects allow students to learn about area service agencies. They study Endangered Species, First Aid with AED and CPR training, Personal Safety, Personal Strengths and Careers, the movie "Pay It Forward", and they must plan, serve and reflect on 6 hours of service in the community.
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS..........9 weeks
This course will enable the student to develop and use a database and a spreadsheet to create record files. Using a data base, the student will create record files (both alphabetic and numeric), then use the information created to edit, expand, copy and print files. Using a spreadsheet, the student will create record files (numeric), enter data into these files, analyze, expand, copy and print the files.
NORTH DAKOTA STUDIES...........9weeks
North Dakota studies reviews various aspects of the state of North Dakota beginning with early history and includes government, economics, people, and special topics.
STUDY PERIOD..........9 weeks
This period provides an opportunity for students to study in a supervised environment with tutor assistance available.
Revised Jan08
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Course Descriptions 9th Grade
ENGLISH..........1 credit..........Full year
The curriculum of study for this course includes grammar and composition, use of reference materials, various speaking opportunities, nonfiction readings, poetry, an epic poem, short stories, and the novel.
GLOBAL STUDIES..........1 credit..........Full year
Students will study the cultures of the Eastern Hemisphere, including Europe, Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, the Middle East, and India. The physical and human geography of each area will be studied, including the land, climate and vegetation, population, culture, resources, and land use. Also included in this course is the study of the governmental systems, the economy, and map components of each area.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE..........1 credit..........Full year
The first semester of Physical Science includes the study of chemistry with units on matter, the periodic table, and chemical reactions. The second semester, physics, is spent studying the basic aspects of motion, force, and energy transfer.
ALGEBRA 1 - YEAR 1 (INTRODUCTION) ..........1 credit..........Full year
Algebra I - Year 1 (Introduction) is the first course in a two-year Algebra program designed to help students be successful in mathematics that is required for college and in the work place. This course will also be beneficial for anyone interested in a career in technical education. Content in the first year includes material that is traditionally found in the first semester of a full year Algebra I class. Algebra I - Year 1 differs from Algebra I primarily in the time and manner in which topics are discussed. It will take two years (Algebra I - Year 1 and Algebra I - Year 2) to complete the Algebra I college requirement.
ALGEBRA 1 - YEAR 2 (CONCLUSION)(TAKEN AS A SOPHOMORE) …....1 credit....Full year
Prerequisite: Algebra I - Year 1
Algebra I - Year 2 (Conclusion) is the second course in a two-year Algebra I program designed to help a broad range of students be successful in mathematics that is required for college and in the work place. This course will also be beneficial for anyone interested in a career in technical education. Content in the second year includes material that is traditionally found in the second semester of a full year Algebra I class. Successful completion of Algebra I - Year 1 and Algebra I - Year 2 will complete the Algebra I college requirement.
*OR*
ALGEBRA I..........1 credit..........Full year
Algebra I is a branch of mathematics that includes the use of variables to express general rules about numbers, number relationships, and operations. This is the first course in the traditional college preparatory sequence. This course will also be beneficial for anyone interested in a career in technical education.
*OR*
GEOMETRY..........1 credit..........Full year
This is a traditional geometry course recommended for students who intend to pursue a 4-year college degree. Geometry is one of the most interesting, creative and useful branches of mathematics. The following topics are covered: a study of deductive reasoning, triangles, quadrilaterals, other polygons, and geometric solids. Consideration is also given to the application of geometry to other subjects. An average of "C" or better in Algebra I is recommended.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION..........1/2 credit..........Semester
Students will learn team sports such as basketball, volleyball, and styxball. A six-week unit includes climbing wall instruction. Students develop knot-tying, belaying and climbing skills. A major emphasis is placed on cooperation, encouragement, kindness, and respect for one another. The class incorporates two fitness days per week. This 18-week course is designed to help students develop a positive attitude towards exercise and physical fitness.
CAREER EDUCATION..........1/2 credit..........Semester
Students will explore various career options and learn how to prepare for the job hunt. They will learn about themselves concerning their interests, abilities, and aptitudes. They will research jobs and careers, write a personal resume, a letter of application, and complete job applications. Students will also complete a four-year high school plan. Several guest speakers from various careers are also included. Students will also explore personal financial planning through the High School Financial Planning Program. They will look at spending, saving, investing, and how to use credit wisely.
ELECTIVE/ENCORE COURSES
FOREIGN LANGUAGE ELECTIVES
FRENCH I..........1 credit..........Full year
In French I students learn to understand, speak, read, and write French necessary for basic communication. French culture is introduced via songs, poetry, readings, educational videos, films, and informal discussion. French is of importance in the fields of music, literature, diplomacy, cuisine, and international business.
GERMAN I..........1 credit..........Full year
Students are introduced to the German Language and the culture of central Europe through daily practice of basic conversation, listening, and reading skills. Students will study basic grammar and will memorize vocabulary words. Readings in both German and English are used to describe everyday life in German-speaking countries, and songs are used to reinforce basic grammar skills. They will end the year with basic survival conversational skills to deal with greetings, introductions, expressing opinions, telling time, traveling by bus or train and shopping. Students will learn High German and modern culture and will be exposed to the history of the local Germans from Russia and the Low German dialect. Students will have an opportunity to have ethnic food and culture days twice during the course of the year.
LATIN I..........1 credit..........Full year
Basic Latin grammar and stylistic analysis are introduced along with simple Latin readings. Side benefits of Latin I are a knowledge of the basic structure of many Western languages, strengthening of grammar skills in English, and vocabulary and spelling improvement in English through the study of Latin roots, prefixes and suffixes. Roman life and culture are introduced in the Latin readings and English cultural essays.
SPANISH I..........1 credit..........Full year
Spanish I introduces the student to the culture and language of Spanish-speaking countries by means of listening to the spoken language, by participating in oral and written exercises, by learning basic grammatical constructions, and by conversing and reading on an elementary level.
ART AND TECHNOLOGY ELECTIVES
INTRODUCTION TO ART..........1/2 credit..........Semester
This elective class expands on the eighth grade standards-based art curriculum with additional opportunities in art theory and practice. The students broaden their art experiences through a variety of activities in drawing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, print making, and art history. $10.00 Art fee.
ART 1.........1 credit.........Full year
Prerequisite: Students should have an interest in art.
Art 1 provides students with an interest in the subject, an opportunity to expand their understanding of art by exploring a variety of techniques. The visual arts curriculum is standards based, preparing students for future art classes. Art 1 allows students to explore art theory and technique with projects in drawing, painting, sculpture, and printmaking. Art Fee $20.00 (Includes required sketchbook)
TECHNOLOGY SYSTEMS..........1/2 credit..........Semester
Students will learn how technological systems work together to solve problems and capture opportunities. This course will concentrate on the interactions of all systems as a whole. Hands on activities may include: sand carving, dye-sublimation, computer applications, digital photography, digital video production, Lego Robotics, transportation system, and other instructor chosen projects. Lab Fee $48.00
INVENTIONS AND INNOVATIONS..........1/2 credit..........Semester
Students will apply the design process to invent or innovate on a new product, process or system. They will explore various approaches to problem solving, including engineering design and experimentation. Students will be given the chance to experience a variety of hands on activities and experiments. Lab Fee $48.00
MUSIC ELECTIVES
CHOIR..........1 credit..........Full year
Music reading, proper vocalization, and harmonizing are stressed. This group performs all types of music and performs at concerts and other performances. Members of 9th grade choir have the choreographed opportunity to participate in WDA music festivals, ACDA honor choirs, and ND All-State. A SHOW CHOIR is made up of many members of the Concert Choir and members are selected by audition. The Show Choir is extracurricular and it performs popular, music at concerts and other functions.
CONCERT BAND..........1 credit..........Full year
The band performs for concerts, parades, invitational events, participates in regional music festivals as soloists and ensembles. A continued emphasis is placed on music fundamentals. The Jazz Band is an extra curricular activity and auditions are held in the fall for this group.
ORCHESTRA..........1 credit..........Full year - (Early bird 7:15 a.m. - 8:05 a.m.)
Middle level orchestra is a combined class for string players in grades 8-9. It is open to students who have had a minimum of two years of playing experience in elementary school and/or middle school or the equivalent in private study. This class meets daily and covers a wide variety of musical literature as well as perfecting and learning new technical skills.
OFFICE AND BUSINESS ELECTIVES
GENERAL BUSINESS..........1/2 credit..........Semester
Offered as an introductory class to the world of business, General Business prepares students who would like to someday pursue business careers. It also provides concepts and knowledge to help prepare students for making valuable decisions in everyday living. Current business activities in our community are discussed regularly. In addition to the textbook and working paper exercises, a computerized stock market game is played for 10 weeks where students choose, buy, and sell stocks in a simulated setting as they learn about the stock market. Guest speakers and field trips may be included as they become available.
GRADE 9 KEYBOARDING..........1/2 credit..........Semester
This course is designed to reinforce the typing techniques taught in 7th grade and to introduce the methods used to produce documents used in the world of work. The students will be doing their work on IBM compatible computers. They will be using two different types of software to complete their assignments. We will be using the Micro Type Pro software to review keyboarding skills taught in 7th grade keyboarding. Microsoft Word will be used to produce different types of documents (letter, memos, table, and reports), which will be helpful to students throughout their high school, college and adult lives.
FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE ELECTIVES
BEGINNING FOODS..........1/2 credit..........Semester
Beginning Foods focuses on foods that students enjoy preparing. Each unit has several lab experiences from caramel rolls to cheese cakes. Students also learn about kitchen safety, utensils, and equipment used in preparing foods and why a variety of food is needed for a healthy diet. Each unit also consists of reading, notes, and tests.
CREATIVE SEWING..........1/2 credit..........Semester
Creative Sewing focuses on the use of the sewing machine and the satisfaction of completing several projects. Students learn about fibers, fabric, and the rotary cutter. Some of the projects included are a strip-quilted pillow, pajama pants, hat and mittens, and a project of the student's choice. Notes, worksheets and tests are part of the learning process. The cost of supplies for this class range from $25.00 to $50.00 depending on the project you choose.
Revised Jan06
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