Course Catalog
Language Arts | Math | Science | Social Studies | Enrichments
Language Arts
8th grade (Year)
This class focuses on 6-trait writing, analysis and evaluation of literature, advanced literary terms study, grammar, and vocabulary. A specific writing focus includes: compare and contrast, cause and effect, and persuasive writing. There is an emphasis on extended writing. The class culminates in a cross-curricular research paper (Language Arts and History).
Honors Language Arts 8th grade (Year)
This class is for high ability students. Admission is based on standardized test scores and teacher recommendation. The classroom teacher works in conjunction with the SOAR teacher. This class includes all regular Language Arts 8 curriculum but is faster paced, more intense, and carries a heavier workload. This class is meant to prepare students for Honors English in high school.
7th grade (Year)
This is a three-part class, focusing on Literature, Grammar, and Writing. The class encourages students to explore various forms of young adult literature through the use of different teaching strategies, including literature circles, group discussion and analysis, and by nurturing independent reading.. The class uses the Step Up to Writing model to teach organization, note taking, sentence fluency, and basic paragraph writing.
6th grade (Year)
At the 6th grade level, students continue to develop their language arts skills. Students explore and respond to a variety of genre including short stories, poetry, novels, non-fiction, newspaper and magazine articles, and plays. They improve their thinking, writing, and speaking skills for a variety of purposes and audiences. This approach maximizes each student's academic growth in the language arts.
Reading - All grades (Year) - Elective
The class offers individualized and small group instruction in the areas of reading comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, and writing skills. The class will run for the length of time needed for the student to reach grade level proficiency. Parent involvement and nightly home reading is required.
Mathematics
Algebra A
This course is a formal high school Semester One Algebra I course using the district-wide College Preparatory Mathematics curriculum. It is a non-traditional Algebra I course in which the state and national standards are integrated throughout the course. The emphasis is on study team investigations, problem solving strategies, basic skills and development of core Algebra concepts through challenging problems. The curriculum will be supplemented for basic computation skills and additional pre-algebra content. Students completing Algebra A will take Algebra B (second semester) at the high school. This course will be considered one of two general 8th grade courses; MathThematics III and Algebra A.
Algebra I
This course is a formal high school Algebra I course using the district-wide College Preparatory Mathematics curriculum. It is a non-traditional Algebra I course in which the state and national standards are integrated throughout the course. The emphasis is on study team investigations, problem solving strategies, basic skills and development of core Algebra concepts through challenging problems. Students are required to do significant homework and must have grade level reading and writing ability as emphasis on the understanding and communication of mathematical ideas is a foundation of the curriculum. Generally considered an accelerated math course, students must demonstrate strong background with pre-Algebra topics prior to being placed in the course. Prerequisite: MathThematics, Course III or equivalent 8th grade curriculum, teacher recommendation, and demonstrated ability to perform successfully at an accelerated level.
MathThematics, Course III 8th grade (Year)
This course is the general 8th grade curriculum using MathThematics curriculum. This curriculum is problem solving oriented and implements the NCTM standards for grades 5 - 8. It emphasizes critical thinking and reasoning over rote procedural drill. It decreases the emphasis on review of “elementary” topics such as whole number computation while increasing emphasis on data analysis and statistics, proportional reasoning, algebra, geometry, and discrete mathematics. It integrates mathematical strands in solving real-world problems using investigation, cooperative work, technology, and direct instruction. A basic tenant of the curriculum is spiraled topics that reinforce and extend learning throughout the three years of the middle school curriculum.
MathThematics, Course II 7th grade (Year)
This course is the general 7th grade curriculum using MathThematics curriculum. This curriculum is problem solving oriented and implements the NCTM standards for grades 5 - 8. It emphasizes critical thinking and reasoning over rote procedural drill. It decreases the emphasis on review of “elementary” topics such as whole number computation while increasing emphasis on data analysis and statistics, proportional reasoning, algebra, geometry, and discrete mathematics. Four unifying concepts, Proportional Reasoning, Multiple Representations, Patterns and Generalizations, and Modeling, are used throughout the curriculum to help students make connections and build mathematical conceptions.
MathThematics, Course I 6th grade (Year)
This course is the 6th grade curriculum using MathThematics curriculum. The curriculum implements the NCTM standards and is designed to provide students opportunities to develop their problem solving skills. Then through logical and analytical reasoning, students communicate the reasoning used in solving the problem. Topics include: number relationships, geometry & measurement, probability, statistics & data analysis, patterns & algebra.
Math Lab (Year) - Elective
This course is designed for 6th, 7th, 8th grade students who are below proficient on the math CSAP test. It reviews and re-teaches basic skill math concepts through a directed hand-on instruction. It emphasizes individual objectives, practice, testing and direct instruction and remediation of concepts considered essential to success in the regular classroom. This course is in addition to the regular math class offered for all students. Those students required to take Math Lab are identified by CSAP results, teacher recommendation and classroom performance.
Science
8th grade (Year) – Physics/Chemistry
Physical science is an 8th grade class that covers inquiry based learning of the following topics; scientific method, matter, periodic table, chemistry, reactions, acids and bases, sound, light, magnetism, electricity, motion, forces, mechanics, investigation and experimentation.
7th grade (Year) – Earth
7th grade science takes an amazing trip into the Earth. Students will discover the interior of the Earth, the Earth's past, plate tectonics, archeology, and fossils. Students will not just explore the Earth, but travel to the other planets of the solar system and beyond. Students will learn about the earth and space through hands on labs, assessments, competitions, and a real archeological dig.
6th grade (Year) – Life Science
This class uses a standards-based approach to finding answers to many questions introduced in class. Students will be working in cooperative groups, although grades will be given on an individual basis. The Science curriculum includes the use of hands-on activities, demonstrations, reading passages from textbooks-novels-newspapers-magazines-internet, homework assignments, tests, and quizzes. We will be covering concepts associated with Life Science. Units of study include: scientific method, cells, classification, six kingdoms, adaptations, food chains/webs, environments, biomes, and the human body. This year long unit will engage students in learning as well as promote students to ask real life questions.
Social Studies
History - 8th grade (Year)
This course is an over view of US History from 1865 to the present. Units of study include: settling of the Americas, US involved wars, expansion West, industrial America, immigration, the Holocaust, and expansion overseas. We also study the Great Depression and current issues.
World Geography - 7th grade (Year)
Geography is the study of the interaction of humanity and the physical environment. Fields of geography include climates, physical geography, population geography, political geography, cultural geography, and economic geography. The five themes of geography are location, place, human environment interaction, movement and regions.
Ancient Civilization - 6th grade (Year)
Sixth grade Ancient Civilization incorporates a variety of teaching practices to involve learners in the cultures of civilizations distant past. Students are expected to learn about the following: geography, early man, ancient Mesopotamia and Sumer, ancient Egypt, ancient India, ancient China, ancient Greece, and ancient Rome.
Enrichments
Art
Art - 8th Grade (Quarter)
We will continue to work on drawing skills, address color value and how to use it, paint, and use a variety of art techniques to understand various processes. We will understand how to draw in 2 point perspective and work in 3-D as well as mixed media.
Art - 7th Grade (Quarter)
This course will continue to build on art skills and knowledge gained in Elementary school and 6th grade. Students will be exposed to and further develop the ability to manipulate art media in ways that allows them success in creating individual art projects. We will focus on drawing skills, understanding and use of color and color mixing, painting techniques, design, historical and cultural expressions, proper use of tools and materials, paper Mache, 3-D projects, ceramics, and analysis.
Art - 6th Grade (Quarter)
We will experiment with a variety of art media and techniques to sharpen skill with a variety of art media to include 2 and 3 dimensional projects. These might include drawing, painting, design, sculpture, printmaking, and ceramics.
Band
Band - 8th Grade (Year)
This group is the top performing group of Skyview Middle School and entrance is by audition only. Students and parents are asked to commit for a year in this course. Participation in three evening concerts is required as part of the student’s grade, as well as concert attire. Additional activities are either scheduled during the school day or optional, such as the annual Solo & Ensemble Contest. This group also participates in a regional large group competition during the 4th quarter of school. Students must pass an exit written and performance examination at the end of the year that also serves as an audition and recommendation to a high school program.
Woodwind Ensemble - 8th Grade (Quarter)
This course is offered to 8th grade students who presently perform in Concert Band. Students who play flute, oboe, clarinet, or bassoon are eligible to audition. The objective of this course is to further study chamber music and enhances performance skills through the development of small ensembles. Students will also be encouraged to audition for a local honor band and perform outside of class during the quarter. Audition required.
Introduction to Music - 8th Grade (Quarter)
This course is open to any 8th grade student who is not a member of a choral or instrumental class. No prior music experience is required and no supplies are needed for the course. Students will explore the basic elements of music composition and history. Instruction will include the use of technology. Students will be required to work on group and individual projects throughout the quarter.
Jazz Band - 8th and 7th Grade (Quarter)
This group is open to 7th and 8th grade band students by audition only. Students study the basic elements of jazz and are introduced to different styles of music. All Jazz Band students must also participate in 7th or 8th grade band, with the exception of piano, guitar or bass guitar. This group performs in school concerts and travels each spring to district elementary schools for band recruitment concerts. This group also participates in area jazz festival(s). Students must pass an exit written and performance examination at the end of the course that also serves as an audition for the following year.
Band - 7th Grade (Year)
This course is open to all 7th grade students who have completed a year of instruction in 6th grade at Skyview or pass an entrance audition before being enrolled in the course. Students further their skills from the beginning level and instruction is aligned with the state and national standards for music. Students and parents are asked to commit for a year in this course. Participation in three evening concerts is required as part of the student’s grade, as well as concert attire. Additional activities are either scheduled during the school day or optional, such as the annual Solo/Ensemble Contest. This group also participates in a regional large group competition during the 4th quarter of school. Students must pass an exit written and performance examination at the end of the year that also serves as an audition for 8th grade band. All information and requirements are listed in the Skyview Band Handbook issued to every student at the beginning of the school year. Audition only.
Woodwinds - 6th Grade (Year)
This course in open to all 6th grade students who wish to learn the basic concepts of the flute, clarinet, oboe, and alto saxophone. No previous musical experiences are required. Parents must furnish an instrument, accessories, and a method book. Participation in 3 evening concerts is required as part of the student’s grade. Additional activities are either scheduled during the school day or optional, such as the Solo/Ensemble Contest. Students with previous instrumental experience may also enroll in this course.
Brass & Percussion - 6th Grade (Year)
This course is open to all 6th grade students who wish to learn the basic concepts of the trumpet, French horn, baritone, trombone, tuba, and percussion instruments. No previous musical experience is required for the brass instruments. Student wishing to play percussion must have at least two years of piano instruction and a signed recommendation from their piano teacher before being enrolled in this course. Participation in 3 evening concerts is required as part of the student’s grade. Additional activities are either scheduled during the school day or optional, such as the Solo/Ensemble Contest. Students with previous instrumental experience may also enroll in this course.
Business
Introduction to Business - 8th Grade (Quarter)
The 8th grade Introduction to Business class will include career preparation skills and plans. Students will learn basic career, work and business skills. Topics include resume writing, filling out job applications, interviewing, writing business letters, communication, public speaking, business math, career planning, accounting, and earning money skills.
Introduction to Business - 7th Grade (Quarter)
The 7th grade Introduction to Business class will be involved in true-to-life situations managing checking and savings accounts and credit cards. Students will learn to make daily decisions concerning wise money management using checking and savings accounts and financial tools such as ATM/debit and credit cards.
Introduction to Business - 6th Grade (Quarter)
The 6th grade Introduction to Business class will work in teams to "brainstorm" and conduct real market research and surveys. Each team will choose one product to develop and create a prototype. Students will understand the cost of acquiring a business license, advertising, and overhead. Each team will write a product description, a persuasive essay about their product and make a group presentation about their product.
Choir
Choir - 8th Grade (Quarter)
All classes will learn basic music theory, a repertoire that includes classical, pop, and multicultural songs. Students will be required to participate in concerts during the school year.
Concert Choir - 8th Grade (Year)
This class is by audition only. It is designed to prepare the 8th grade student for the special high school choir performance groups. It will enhance student knowledge in music theory and complex rhythm patterns as well as composition and songwriting, extensive sight singing and ear training. Students will build a repertoire of a cappella songs, madrigals, classical and four songs in foreign languages. Students will be required to perform in concerts a school and in the community. Students will be required to participate in Solo & Ensemble Contest.
Choir - 7th Grade (Quarter)
All classes will learn basic music theory, a repertoire that includes classical, pop, and multicultural songs. Students will be required to participate in concerts during the school year.
Choir - 7th Grade (Semester)
This class is designed to extend and enhance student knowledge in music theory and complex rhythm patterns. The class will include composition and songwriting, sight singing and ear training. Students will focus on intonation as they prepare to build a repertoire of a Capella songs, madrigals, classical, and two songs in foreign languages. Students will be required to perform in concerts at school and in the community. Students will be required to participate in Solo & Ensemble contest. Audition only.
Choir - 6th Grade (Quarter)
All classes will learn basic music theory, a repertoire that includes classical, pop, and multicultural songs. Students will be required to participate in concerts during the school year.
Computers
Computers - All Grades (Quarter)
The focus of the course will be on basic technology productivity skills to support student academic classes, as well as, personal and business tasks. The course consists of proper keyboarding techniques and improvement of speed and accuracy; application projects to accomplish student reports, letters, research, and presentations; and basic concepts concerning the nature and operation of technology systems. In addition to Microsoft Office Applications, students will employ various Internet search strategies such as URL and search engines; apply Boolean Logic; choose, evaluate, and cite Internet sites; and explore ethical issues related to technology.
Family and Consumer Studies
Family and Consumer Studies - 8th Grade (Quarter)
The 8th grade Family and Consumer Science course is designed to provide students with basic constructs, skills, and competencies essential to a positive quality of life. Students will explore the roles they will assume as teenagers and acquired skills needed in life. Students explore interior design, consumer education, nutrition and wellness, and clothing and textiles.
Family and Consumer Studies - 7th Grade (Quarter)
The 7th grade Family and Consumer Science course is designed to provide students with basic constructs, skills, and competencies essential to a positive quality of life. Students will explore the roles they will assume as teenagers and acquired skills needed in life. Students explore techniques in babysitting (child care and development), family living, nutrition and wellness, and clothing and textiles.
Family and Consumer Studies - 6th Grade (Quarter)
The 6th grade Family and Consumer Science (FACS) course is designed to provide students with basic constructs, skills, and competencies essential to a positive quality of life. Students will explore the roles they will assume as teenagers and acquired skilled needed in life. Students will learn the importance of grooming and having a positive self esteem. Also included will be units on basic food and nutrition, an introduction to cooking, and basic sewing techniques.
Math Lab
All Grades (Year)
This course is designed for 6th, 7th, 8th grade students who are below proficient on the math CSAP test. It reviews and re-teaches basic skill math concepts through a directed hand-on instruction. It emphasizes individual objectives, practice, testing and direct instruction and remediation of concepts considered essential to success in the regular classroom. This course is in addition to the regular math class offered for all students. Those students required to take Math Lab are identified by CSAP results, teacher recommendation and classroom performance.
Physical Education
Physical Education - 8th Grade (Quarter)
Team sports and fitness is the focus for 8th grade physical education classes. Students will use game rules as well as incorporate game strategies into team activities that are developmentally appropriate. Core activities include Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Archery as well as fitness activities such as running, (fartlek training, log-distance running, calisthenics), fitness stations, (running and weight lifting), and aerobics (tae bo). Assessments include written tests as well as skills tests. Student participation is highly recommended.
Physical Education - 7th Grade (Quarter)
Team sports and fitness is the focus for 7th grade physical education classes. Students will use game rules as well as incorporate game strategies into team activities that are developmentally appropriate. Core activities include Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, Archery as well as fitness activities such as running, (fartlek training, log-distance running, calisthenics), fitness stations, (running and weight lifting), and aerobics (tae bo). Assessments include written tests as well as skills tests. Student participation is highly recommended.
Physical Education - 6th Grade (Quarter)
Class focuses on physical fitness, skill development, game rules, and basic game strategies for the sports taught. Games appropriate for grade level are introduced. Fitness activities include running, stations, aerobics, and lifting of weights. Core activities for the course are Volleyball, Basketball, Softball, and Archery. Student participation is essential. Assessments include knowledge of sport or activity to include vocabulary, rules and an active level of participation.
Reading and Writing Workshop
Literacy - All Grades (Year)
This class offers individualized and small group instruction in the areas of reading comprehension, vocabulary, fluency, and writing skills. The class will run for the length of time needed for the students to reach grade level proficiency. Parent involvement and nightly home reading is required.
Technology
Automation & Robotics - 8th Grade (Semester)
Students trace the history and development of automation and robotics. They learn about structures, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students acquire knowledge and skills in engineering problem solving and explore requirements for careers in engineering.
Design and Modeling - 7th Grade (Quarter)
This unit uses solid modeling (a very sophisticated mathematical technique for representing solid objects) to introduce students to the design process. Utilizing this design approach, students understand how solid modeling has influenced their lives. Students also learn sketching techniques, and use descriptive geometry as a component of design, measurement, and computer modeling. Using design briefs or abstracts, students create models and documentation to solve problems.
Science of Technology - 6th Grade (Quarter)
This unit traces how science has affected technology throughout history. Students learn about the mechanics of motion, the conversion of energy, and the use of science to improve communication.
Theatre
Theatre - 8th Grade (Quarter)
Eighth graders will have the choice of two different Drama classes: Onstage Theatre (performance-based) and Backstage Theatre (production-based). Both groups will review the basics, and progress to learning more about the history and elements of theatre, various genres, playwriting, directing, basic set design, basic lighting and sound, career exploration, etc., and will also have the opportunity to try out some improvisational acting through various theatre-based "warm ups".
Onstage: Theatre students will take part in a more in-depth exploration of playwriting, directing, and performing, with the students being immersed in a long-term, small-group project during the greater part of the quarter, in which they will research, develop, and utilize their skills to plan, develop, and perform in a “stage” production for their classroom peers. They will also learn how to prepare and perform a monologue. Students will be assessed via both group and individual acting performances, as well as through a final individual written exam.
Backstage: Theatre students will participate in a small-group project in which they will further develop and utilize technical skills involving stage lighting, sound, set design, costuming, and props. Some acting and directing skills will be addressed, as well. The class will culminate in a Theatre Makeup Workshop, which will include special effects stage makeup. (Students who are allergic may still participate in this workshop – they will not be required to use the makeup, but will need to do the writing and drawing portions of the activity to receive credit.) Backstage Theatre students will also take part in helping to prepare for the Winter Musical and the Spring Play. Students will be assessed via both group and individual projects, as well as through a final individual written exam.
Theatre - 7th Grade (Quarter)
Seventh graders will review the basics of theatre, and build on those by participating in tasks and performances meant to increase their knowledge and improve their cooperative and creative abilities, as they continue to become more immersed in the “language” and progression of theatre. They will also learn about and perform for their classroom peers from Readers Theatre style scripts, which is something that is done on a professional basis in certain venues. Additionally, they will learn how to prepare and perform a monologue. As time permits, certain aspects of poetry and mask usage may also be explored. Students will be assessed via both group and individual projects, as well as through a final individual written exam.
Theatre - 6th Grade (Quarter)
Sixth graders will start out with an introduction to theatre, which includes the fundamentals: basic theatre history, definitions of theatre and acting, basic movement, expression, and organization, and basic stage positions and theatre terminology. They will work together on several small-group projects, including planning and developing a short script based on a well-known story, which they will then rehearse and act out for their classroom peers. Students will also have the opportunity to perform “solo”, through the use of poetry as monologues. As time permits, basic puppetry may be introduced, as well. Students will be assessed via both group and individual projects, as well as through a final individual written exam.
World Languages
Intro to Spanish - 8th Grade (Semester)
This course is designed for students who have had no previous Spanish instruction or who have struggled with Spanish. Students at this level learn greetings and polite phrases, numbers from 0-100, school supplies and course names, place names and relative locations, family relations, expressing time and dates, conjugation of basic regular and irregular verbs, and agreement of descriptors.
Spanish I - 8th Grade (Year)
This course is equivalent to the Spanish 1 course offered at the high school level. Among the topics studied are greetings, polite phrases, leisure activities, numbers from 0-1000, food, school supplies, and course names, place names and relative locations, expressing time and dates, conjugation of regular and irregular verbs, family relations, furniture and rooms in the home, clothing, and agreement of descriptors. After semester break, use of English is kept to a minimum. Prerequisite: 6th or 7th grade Spanish.
French - 8th Grade (Semester)
This is a semester long course that exposes students to basic vocabulary. Students will have the opportunity to gain knowledge, insights, and understanding of other cultures. Student learning will be assessed through daily participation and various homework projects as well as written and oral quizzes and tests. Students will be required to write simple short stories to demonstrate their understanding of and ability to use the French vocabulary they are acquiring. Students will complete an oral assessment in which they introduce themselves and speak in French. Prerequisite: Quarter French at 7th grade level.
Spanish - 7th Grade (Semester)
This is a semester-long course that continues to develop the student’s basic vocabulary. Students at this level learn greetings and polite phrases, numbers from 0-499, school supplies and course names, place names and relative locations, family relations, expressing time and dates, conjugation of basic regular and irregular verbs, and agreement of descriptors. While it is desirable for students to have taken the 6th grade Spanish course, it is not a requirement.
French A - 7th Grade (Quarter)
This is a quarter long exploratory course that exposes students to basic vocabulary. Students will have the opportunity to gain knowledge and understanding of other cultures. Student learning will be assessed through daily participation and various homework projects as well as written and oral quizzes and tests.
French B - 7th Grade (Quarter)
This is a quarter long course that expands on basic vocabulary. Students will have the opportunity to gain knowledge, insights, and understanding of other cultures. Student learning will be assessed through daily participation and various homework projects as well as written and oral quizzes and tests. Students will be required to write simple short stories to demonstrate their understanding of and ability to use the French vocabulary they are acquiring. Prerequisite: Quarter French at 6th grade level.
Spanish - 6th Grade (Quarter)
This is a quarter-long exploratory course that exposes students to basic vocabulary. Among the topics covered are everyday actions, names of items found in the classroom, numbers 1-20, colors, shapes, and body parts. Students are also expected to learn the names, capitals, and locations of the various Hispanic American countries whose official language is Spanish. Homework is limited to 3 pictionary projects in which students are required to draw simple pictures to depict the meaning of their Spanish vocabulary.