The Schools > Middle School > Exploratory Subjects

BAND 6-7-8
The 6th grade band begins a student's first organized experience in the instrumental music program. Students will select the appropriate instrument during a tryout process. The main focus of the curriculum will be learning how to read music with respect to melody and rhythm, to interpret the musical notation and perform with good tone quality. Music vocabulary is emphasized. Throughout 6th, 7th, and 8th grade, students will have the opportunity to participate in several concerts, jazz band, and numerous contests and festivals for individuals, small groups and large ensemble. The focus of lessons is 'continuous improvement' in all aspects of becoming an accomplished musician.

COMPUTER EDUCATION 6-7-8
All students currently have a semester of computer instruction each year. The 6th grade class focuses on correct and efficient keyboarding. We also introduce basic word processing concepts with saving on both hard and floppy disks. The 7th grade class continues with word processing skills and works into drawing page layouts and database instruction. In 8th grade the students work with spreadsheets and put together presentable database layouts as well as slide shows. The instruction at the middle school level works on progression of skills that builds from one year to the next. These skills are helpful and are needed to complete work during the students high school years.

INFO SEARCH 6
Info Search is a seven week course which is part of the sixth grade exploratory rotation. The purpose of this course is to develop skills in locating information, using information searching tools, and evaluating information sources to demystify the process of research and and provide information power that enables discovery and life long learning. Participants will design and produce both an individual and group project to demonstrate the process, strategies and procedures used in accessing, collecting and using information.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 6-7-8
The physical education program is for students to explore different skills, activities, and games that would promote positive life long activity. The 6th grade units include skills in basic games and rhythm and dance. The 7th grade receives choices of different games and activities that would be to their level of interest. Eighth graders have choices to make in different activities. They will have the opportunity to leave campus to play golf and other similar activities. The physical education staff emphasizes cooperation and not competition. Student awareness of fitness for life long wellness is vital.

LIVING SKILLS 6-7-8
Living Skills is a seven-week exploratory course offered to all students. The 6th grade curriculum includes units in nutrition and snack food preparation, creative stitchery, baby-sitting, and the elderly. The units covered in 7th grade are sewing a pillow, child development, consumer education, nutrition, preparation of cookies, and quick and yeast breads. 8th grade students are involved in sewing flannel shorts, laundry care, human sexuality, nutrition, preparation of cookies, quick and yeast breads, and pizza.

ART EDUCATION 6-7-8
Art at the middle level provide opportunities to develop problem solving skills and evaluation skills while growing in visual awareness, imagination and skills related to producing art works. Middle level art education provides a visual link among academic disciplines which help students understand the historical and cultural significance of art. All middle level art students will be provided opportunities to feel successful while working cooperatively on works of art.

HEALTH EDUCATION 7
7th grade health is designed to promote knowledge and practice of a healthy lifestyle. Topics will involve social, physical, and mental health, and human growth and development.

COMPREHENSION 6-7-8
Description is written under the "Technology" section of these pages.

LEARNING STRATEGIES 7-8
The purpose of the seventh grade class is to help students learn about their basic abilities, both intellectually and physically, as they relate to school and the job market. This class is designed to provide students with an interactive learning program. This is accomplished, in part, by the use of the System for Assessment and Group Evaluation (S.A.G.E.) program. This is an in-depth hands-on program that allows students to explore their talents in a multitude of areas. The purpose of the eighth grade class is to help students deal with and contribute to the ever changing demands of the future. This class is designed to provide students with an interactive learning process. Students will be introduced to analytical and technical tools as well as social skills. Students will explore specific study skills, methods, and habits.

CAREERS 8
The exploring career opportunities program utilizes various combinations of subject matter and learning experiences to enable the student to be more aware of what is needed to be successful in the world of work.

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY 6-7-8
Description is in the "Technology" part of these pages.