Course Description Guide

Transcription

1 Course Description Guide Revised 6/5/2014

2 Table of Contents to go directly to a section click on the course section name Introduction... 3 BVSD Graduation Requirements... 4 Middle Level Applied Technology... 6 Middle Level Art... 8 Middle Level Computer Education Middle Level Electives Middle Level English Language Arts Middle Level Family & Consumer Sciences Middle Level Health Education Middle Level Mathematics Middle Level Music Middle Level Physical Education Middle Level Science Middle Level Social Studies Middle Level World Languages High School Business and Marketing High School Computer Education High School English Language Arts High School Family & Consumer Sciences High School Health Education High School Mathematics High School Music High School Physical Education High School Pre Engineering Academy High School Science High School Social Studies High School Student Support High School Technology & Industry Courses High School Visual Arts High School World Languages Career & Technical Educational Center (CTEC) Career Development Center (CDC) at St. Vrain Valley School District

3 Introduction The Colorado Commission on Higher Education established these course guidelines, known as the Higher Education Admission Requirements or HEAR. They specify the courses your student will need to successfully complete in high school, primarily in the areas of English, mathematics, natural and physical sciences, and social sciences, to qualify for admission to a public four year college or university in Colorado. If your student plans to attend a four year college or university in Colorado, then he or she will need to complete the following classes to fulfill the Higher Education Admissions Requirements: High School Academic Area English Mathematics Natural/Physical Sciences (two units must be lab based) Social Sciences (at least one unit of U.S. or world history) Foreign Language Academic Elective 2010 Graduates & beyond 4 years 4 years (must include Algebra 1, Algebra 2, Geometry or equivalents) 3 years 3 years 1 year 2 years The Higher Education Admissions Requirements do not apply to Community Colleges, which have open enrollment policies, meaning that students applying to these schools do not need to meet the admissions requirements outlined above. For more information on helping your student plan for college, please visit the State s free college prep website, for valuable information, including financial and scholarship information. In the course description booklet, courses that meet the Higher Education Admission Requirements for the core academic areas are designated as HEAR, courses that meet the academic elective requirements are identifies as. Should you have further questions, please contact your school counselor, school principal, or any classroom teacher. 3

4 BVSD Graduation Requirements Beginning with the class of 2010, 220 credit hours must be earned in the areas listed below. Ten credits are equivalent to one full year of credit in a specific subject. Language Arts (40 credits in grades 9 12) 10 in Language Arts 9 10 in World Literature & Composition, grade in American Literature & Composition, grade 11 5 in language arts elective courses, in communication courses, grades 9 12 Social Studies (30 credits in grades 9 12) 5 in US Government in grade 9 5 in World Geography in grades in World History in grade in US History in grade 11 Math (20 credits in grades 9 12) 10 credits of which must include Algebra 1 or higher level mathematics Science (20 credits in grades 9 12) 10 credits in courses designated as Life Sciences 10 credits in courses designated as Physical Sciences Physical Education (15 credits in grades 9 12) 5 in Wellness and Action grade 9 10 in elective P.E. courses, grades 9 12, balanced between individual fitness and team sports Second Language Acquisition (10 credits in World Language) Credits must be in Level 2 or higher; or, for ELL students, ESL Level 2 or higher Practical Experiences (5 credits in grades 9 12) 5 credits in Computer Science or Applied Technology (maybe fulfilled in middle level); if Computer Science or Applied Technology requirement is fulfilled at middle level, then 5 credits in Business, Consumer & Family Studies, or other Career & Technology education course is required AND, To meet this requirement all students must also demonstrate evidence of completion of a 12 hour course in Money Management & Personal Finance in grades 7 12 or through a qualified district course Health (5 credits in grades 9 10) Fine Arts (5 credits in grades 9 12: includes music or art) 4

5 BVSD 2014/2015 Approved Fee List: %20Approved%20Fee%20List.pdf 5

6 Middle Level Applied Technology Practical Experiences To meet BVSD graduation requirements in 2010 and beyond, students need 5 credits in Computer Science or Applied Technology; if this requirement is fulfilled in grades 6 8, 5 credits in Business, Consumer and Family Studies, Computer Science, Applied Technology, or Technical Education will meet this requirement. J01 Exploratory Shop Level: 6 Course Length: Variable; 6 12 weeks This is a course for the student interested in a basic introduction to shop. No prior experience in shop work is needed. This class is designed to teach the safe use of hand and power tools. The student will be shown basic operations in one or more areas as time allows. The areas that may be covered are: drafting, design, metal, plastic, leather, and woodworking. J04 Woodworking & Crafts Level: 7 8 /1 trimester Woodworking and Crafts is a hands on class focused mainly on advanced woodworking projects. Students will learn about the process that goes into the design and creation of a project. They will make detailed scale drawings before beginning the project. They will also learn to calculate the cost of materials and hardware. Students will experience some of the various woodcarving techniques such as relief, heraldic, lettering, and carving in the round. They will also be able to do some craft related projects, such as, cane rush seat weaving, marquetry, and model building. J15 RIP TIDE (Old title: Applied Technology Exploratory) Level: 6 Course Length: Variable; 6 12 weeks This course will provide students with the opportunity to experience an irresistible force of innovation, ideas, and imagination. Students will have hands on experiences in the exciting arenas of technology, innovation, design, and engineering (TIDE). Students will explore, invent, design, build, solve, work in teams, and communicate as they engage in authentic design and build challenges. J20 T.I.D.E: Technology Innovation Design Engineering (Old title: Applied Technology) Level: 7 8 /trimester The T.I.D.E. (Technology Innovation Design Engineering) class is a hands on learning environment in which students use tools and technology to solve real world problems. Students take ideas from concept to completion, learning the design build communicate process. Students will explore careers and design authentic projects in areas such as architecture, inventions, alternative energy, graphic arts/design, robotics, engineering, CAD, micro electronics, woodshop or any of a dozen other fields of interest. Students will demonstrate safe and proper use of technology, equipment, and tools. Students will learn to lead, follow instructions, cooperate with others, and work effectively in a team to accomplish authentic design and engineering tasks. J36 Robotics Level: 6 8 /1 trimester The Middle Level Robotics course utilizes a hands on approach in designing, building, programming and testing robots. Students engage in a variety of activities that incorporate various engineering principles. Students also learn the value of teamwork and even friendly competition. 6

7 PA7 Gateway to Technology 1 (GTT) Level: 7 8 /1 trimester Boulder Valley School District The Gateway to Technology curriculum provides project based learning a hands on learning approach that relates technology and engineering to students daily lives. The program consists of four independent units (two each semester): The first is Design and Modeling. This unit uses solid modeling 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. The second unit is The Magic of Electrons. Through handson projects, students explore the science of electricity, the movement of atoms, circuit design, and sensing devices. Students acquire knowledge and skills in basic circuitry design and explore the impact of electricity on our lives. This course is only offered at Angevine Middle School. PA8 Gateway to Technology 2 (GTT) Level: 7 8 /1 trimester The Gateway to Technology curriculum provides project based learning a hands on learning approach that relates technology and engineering to students daily lives. The program consists of four independent units (two each semester): The third unit is The Science of Technology. This unit traces how science has affected technology throughout history. Students learn about the mechanics of motion, the conversation of energy, and the use of science to improve communication. The fourth unit is Automation and Robotics. In this unit, 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. This course is only offered at Angevine Middle School. 7

8 Middle Level Art A06 Exploratory Art Level: 6 Course Length: Variable; 6 12 weeks Course Fee: $5 maximum In Exploratory Art, students experiment with a variety of media to create visual art. Characteristics and expressive features of art (elements of art and principles of design) are emphasized in two dimensional and three dimensional work. The development and application of basic techniques, skills and technology are stressed. Students learn to respect their own and others ideas, artistic expressions and personal style as they objectively analyze and evaluate works of art. Art history and culture studies will focus on regions within the 6 th grade, social studies curriculum. Additional cultures that are not addressed in the 6 th grade social studies curriculum may also be included. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. A11 Art 1 Level: 7 8 /1 trimester Course Fee: $20 maximum Building on Exploratory Art learning experiences, students study and apply the elements of art and principles of design in compositions. Inspired by artists and art history, students learn about various materials, tools, techniques, processes and technology in both two and three dimensional art. Students build and refine motor skills throughout this course. Personal expression is nurtured through an exploration of the creative process. Students understand the role of visual art in shaping historical and cultural traditions. Art history and cultural studies focus on regions within the seventh and eighth grade social studies curriculum. Additional artists and cultures that are not addressed in other middle level art courses may also be included. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. A12 Art 2 Level: 8 /1 trimester Course Fee: $20 maximum Building on Exploratory Art learning experiences, students study and apply the elements of art and principles of design in compositions. Inspired by artists and art history, students learn about various materials, tools, techniques, processes and technology in both two and three dimensional art. Students build and refine motor skills throughout this course. Personal expression is nurtured through an exploration of the creative process. Students understand the role of visual art in shaping historical and cultural traditions. Art history and cultural studies focus on regions within the seventh and eighth grade social studies curriculum. Additional artists and cultures that are not addressed in other middle level art courses may also be included. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. A15 Crafts Level: 7 8 Course Length: Variable; 6 18 weeks Course Fee: $20 maximum In this one term course, students are introduced to a variety of craft and folk art materials, tools, techniques, processes and technology. Students create wellcrafted, functional and decorative pieces based on art from different cultures as they develop and refine motor skills. Though this course, students understand the role of crafts in shaping historical and cultural traditions. Art history and cultural studies focus on regions within the seventh and eighth grade social studies curriculum. Additional artists and cultures that are not addressed in other middle level art courses may also be included. A20 Three Dimensional Design Level: 7 8 Course Length: Variable; 6 18 weeks Course Fee: $20 maximum During this one term course, students learn about various materials, tools, techniques, processes and technology of three dimensional design. Construction methods include casting, assemblage, carving and modeling. The students study a form from different points of view along with how it occupies the space. This interaction is the essence of three dimensional design that makes it a unique art form. Emphasis is on building and refining motor skills throughout this course. Students understand the role of three dimensional design in shaping historical and cultural traditions. Art history and cultural studies focus on regions within the eighth grade social studies curriculum. Additional artists and cultures that are not addressed in other middle level art courses may also be included. 8

9 A21 Drawing & Painting Level: 7 8 Course Length: Variable; 6 18 weeks Course Fee: $25 maximum Boulder Valley School District This one term Drawing and Painting course provides experiences in a wide range of media though the intentional application of elements of art and principles of design. Students build drawing and painting skills through exploration and practice with materials, tools, techniques, processes and technology. Observation, critical thinking and problem solving are stressed as important components of the drawing process and discovering personal style. Students understand the role of visual art in shaping historical and cultural traditions. Art history and cultural studies will focus on regions within the seventh and eighth grade social studies curriculum. Additional artists and cultures that are not addressed in other middle level art courses may also be included. A23 Ceramics Level: 7 8 Course Length: Variable; 6 18 weeks Course Fee: $20 maximum In this one term course, students are introduced to the properties of ceramic clay. Inspired by artists and art history, students learn about various materials, tools, techniques, processes and technology of ceramics. The emphasis in this course is on hand building, however wheel throwing is introduced where facilities allow. Students will create functional and non functional pieces and finish them in a variety of ways while developing and refining motor skills. Students understand the role of ceramics in shaping historical and cultural traditions. Art history and cultural studies focus on regions within the seventh and eighth grade social studies curriculum. Additional artists and cultures that are not addressed in other middle level art courses may also be included. 9

10 Middle Level Computer Education Practical Experiences To meet BVSD graduation requirements in 2010 and beyond, all students must have a minimum of 5 credits in Computer Science or Applied Technology. Students who complete the equivalent of 5 credits (1 semester or 1 trimester) in grades 7 8, are deemed to have met this requirement. B08 Keyboarding Level: 7 8 /1 trimester Course Fee: $15 maximum for other classes. Learn how to type faster than you can write! This class will help you work faster, save time on your homework, and make you papers look neater! Students will learn to use the computer keyboard using the touch method. Emphasis is placed on developing correct typing techniques and improving speed and accuracy when producing documents. Students will have an opportunity to use keyboarding software and will be able to create documents D04 Java Programming Level: 6 8 / 1 trimester scratch. By design, this course enables middle school students, with no previous experience, to jump right into the Java programming language. Students will become familiar with objects, classes, methods, parameters, data types, fields, loops, constructors and more. Students will learn about these topics, as well as others, through modifying existing programs and creating programs from D05 Desktop Publishing Level: 7 8 / 1 trimester Course Fee: $15 maximum Have the coolest looking reports in school! Students use computer technology to publish these kinds of exciting projects: brochures, timelines, flyers, newsletter, posters, and newspapers. Computer graphics, word processing, scanning, photograph editing, and page layout programs will be used to generate professional looking documents. Students will learn the elements of design, create and use advanced drawing projects, and also use publishing templates in their publications. Students will have an opportunity to create projects for other classes and may be able to publish an on line project. D06 Exploring Computers This course is designed to introduce students to the variety of technology Level: 6 tools available in their own school. Students will make text documents, create Course Length: Variable; 6 12 weeks drawings, import their drawings into documents, use clip art files and Internet images, build a spreadsheet for data collection and create charts and graphs Course Fee: $15 maximum from that data, use electronic resources and the Internet, practice proper keyboarding techniques, and explore a variety of software applications. This class will cover basic hardware and software operations and help students learn to use the technology tools in their classes. D07 Computer Power Level: 7 8 /1 trimester Course Fee: $15 maximum Students will get an overview of the power of today s technology! Students will gain experience with several software programs to create brochures, posters, newsletter, flyers, outlines, memos, letters, timelines, reports, agendas, tables, lists, drawings, presentations, spreadsheets, charts, graphs, database files, and merged documents. Students will learn efficient ways to use the Internet and organize bookmarks when doing projects for other classes. The use of digital cameras and scanners will be introduced. This course is a recommended prerequisite to all other computing courses. 10

11 D08 Multimedia Productions Level: 7 8 /1 trimester Course Fee: $20 maximum Students will design and produce multimedia presentations that incorporate text, graphics, sound, and animation. Software tools may include PowerPoint, Web Page tools, or Timeliner. Students will also learn to modify digital images and Internet images for use in presentations. Presentations may also include Internet links, re sized images, and imported documents such as charts or graphs. 11

12 Middle Level Electives X22 Office Assistant Level: 6 12 Prerequisites: Placement by permission of appropriate office staff or teacher Office Assistant provides students with instruction in the routines and responsibilities of a school office. Students in this program work with the department head, school counselor or secretary during a scheduled period of the school day. Students assist the school staff by performing a variety of supportive tasks including clerical (non confidential) duties. Students may be scheduled to assist in the media center, the counseling office, the attendance office, the main office, or with individual teachers. Students who are interviewed and selected will serve as valuable resources for teachers and office personnel. Students are expected to be dependable and industrious. The ability to relate well with other students, adults, and visitors is very important. X32 Academic Assistant Level: 6 12 Prerequisites: Placement by permission of appropriate office staff or teacher Academic Assistant provides students with an organized experience to assist other students, through a helping relationship, with their studies and personal growth and development. The course provides opportunities for the students taking the course to develop a basic understanding of individual differences and to explore career options in related fields. Academic Assistant experiences are preplanned by the teacher of the course and any cooperating teacher under whom the tutoring is to be provided. The course provides a balance of class work relating to the development of and use of: (1) listening skills, (2) communication skills, (3) facilitation skills, (4) decision making skills, and (5) teaching strategies. X39 6 th Grade Transitions Level: 6 Course Length: Variable; 6 12 weeks This 6 week course is offered as part of our 6th grade Exploratory Wheel: Middle school can at times feel like a roller coaster. This course provides strategies for successfully navigating the social, emotional and academic ups and downs of middle school. Students learn about the following: creating and maintaining friendships; effective communication skills; establishing boundaries; dealing with peer pressure; effective problem solving; conflict resolution; bully proofing strategies; stress and healthy coping skills; and anger management. Students also study how the brain learns and how to manage academic ups and downs positively. Students will practice strategies for dealing with potential middle school issues and brainstorm solutions to hypothetical scenarios. The course syllabus is attached. X64 Middle Level Peer Tutoring Level: 7 8 /1 trimester This elective course would afford 7th and 8th grade students the opportunity to mentor students with disabilities during the school day for one class period daily. It would also provide course content through weekly meetings before or after school in the following areas: diversity awareness relevant to disabilities, knowledge of disability categories, information regarding modifications and accommodations, typical learning styles and skills development, universal design, inclusive practices, accessibility issues, and special education policies and procedures. Grading: The class will be offered with a pass/fail grade. X69 Connect Level: 6 8 /3 trimesters Connect Class is based on the Comprehensive School Counseling Curriculum adopted by the Boulder Valley Board of Education. Connect classes are separated by grade and will develop understanding, knowledge and skills in the following areas; identification of interests, academic attitudes, goal setting, course selections, academic achievement, beginning career knowledge, development of social skills, resistance of peer pressure, development of problem solving skills and development of time management and organizational skills. 12

13 Middle Level English Language Arts K06 6th Grade English Language Arts Level: 6 /3 trimesters Required for all 6th grade students Course Fee: $9.95 maximum 6 th Grade English Language Arts focuses on the four academic standards: oral expression and listening, reading for all purposes, writing and composition, and research and reasoning. This course will build upon elementary level instruction and will demand increased skills application and intellectual reasoning while reading and writing. Topics of study include: analyzing literary components, examining text structures, developing vocabulary knowledge through context, organizing and structuring writing for intended audiences and purposes, informative/expository and persuasive writing, grammar and mechanics of English language. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. K07 6th Grade English Language Arts Advanced Level: 6 /3 trimesters Advanced 6 th Grade English Language Arts focuses on the four academic standards: oral expression and listening, reading for all purposes, writing and composition, and research and reasoning. Topics of study include: analyzing literary components, examining text structures, developing vocabulary knowledge through context, organizing and structuring writing for intended audiences and purposes, informative/expository and persuasive writing, grammar and mechanics of English language. This course is designed for the student who enjoys the love of reading, enjoys discussion and analysis, thinks critically, has strong writing and grammar skills and is self motivated. As an advanced course, this course goes beyond the curriculum expectations of a standard course offering by increasing the depth and complexity. Students are engaged in dynamic, high level learning. The pace of an advanced course may be faster than that of a standard course. K09 English Language Development Beginning Level: 6 8 /3 trimesters Beginning Middle Level ELD provides training in general study techniques and specific English Language Arts strategies and concepts necessary for an understanding of core content area topics. This course aids ELD students, especially those with little previous schooling, in making the transition from training classes to mainstream curriculum. Students are introduced to and review accurate, effective expression, interpretation of content reading, and test taking techniques. K11 7th Grade English Language Arts 7 th Grade English Language Arts focuses on the four academic standards: oral Level: 7 expression and listening, reading for all purposes, writing and composition, /3 trimesters and research and reasoning. Topics of study include: comprehension of literary and fictional texts, summarizing and evaluating informational and Required for all 7th grade students persuasive texts, word choice influence on literary, persuasive, and informational writing, obtaining and analyzing information from a variety of sources, grammar, usage, and mechanics skill development. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. K12 7th Grade English Language Arts Advanced Level: 7 /3 trimesters Prerequisites: K07 6th Grade English Language Arts Advanced Advanced 7 th Grade English Language Arts focuses on the four academic standards: oral expression and listening, reading for all purposes, writing and composition, and research and reasoning. Topics of study include: comprehension of literary and fictional texts, summarizing and evaluating informational and persuasive texts, word choice influence on literary, persuasive, and informational writing, obtaining and analyzing information from a variety of sources, grammar, usage, and mechanics skill development. This course is designed for the student who enjoys the love of reading, enjoys discussion and analysis, thinks critically, has strong writing and grammar skills and is self motivated. As an advanced course, this course goes beyond the curriculum expectations of a standard course offering by increasing the depth and complexity. Students are engaged in dynamic, high level learning. The pace of an advanced course may be faster than that of a standard course. 13

14 K13 English Language Development Intermediate Level: 6 8 Course Length: Variable; up to 2 years Prerequisites: Intermediate English proficiency and/or ESL teacher recommendation Boulder Valley School District Intermediate Middle Level ELD is intended to give intermediate level ELD students the skills they need in academic and social settings. English skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening will be improved. Students will use English to participate in social and classroom interactions in culturally appropriate ways. They will interact through spoken and written English for personal expression and enjoyment. They will use learning strategies to extend their ability to communicate. At an intermediate English proficiency level, students will read and understand a variety of materials and interpret literatures a record and expression of human experience. They will listen, observe, speak, and write for a variety of purposes and audiences, and to develop higher critical thinking skills. They will use grammatical and mechanical conventions of language in speaking and writing. K31 8th Grade English Language Arts Level: 8 /3 trimesters Required for all 8th grade students 8th Grade English Language Arts focuses on the four academic standards: oral expression and listening, reading for all purposes, writing and composition, and research and reasoning. Topics of study include: Reading comprehension and interpretation of literary texts and of informational and persuasive texts using self monitoring and self assessment; understanding stylistic devices and descriptive details; organizing ideas and supporting details within informational and persuasive texts written for a variety of audiences and purposes; grammar, usage, and mechanics in writing; and the research process. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. K32 8th Grade English Language Arts Advanced Level: 8 /3 trimesters Prerequisites: K12 7th Grade English Language Arts Advanced Advanced 8th Grade English Language Arts focuses on the four academic standards: oral expression and listening, reading for all purposes, writing and composition, and research and reasoning. Topics of study include: Reading comprehension and interpretation of literary texts and of informational and persuasive texts using selfmonitoring and self assessment; understanding stylistic devices and descriptive details; organizing ideas and supporting details within informational and persuasive texts written for a variety of audiences and purposes; grammar, usage, and mechanics in writing; and the research process. The course is designed for the student who enjoys reading, discussion and analysis, thinks critically, has strong writing and grammar skills and is selfmotivated. As an advanced course, this course goes beyond the curriculum expectations of a standard course offering by increasing the depth and complexity. Students are engaged in dynamic, high level learning. The pace of an advanced course may be faster than that of a standard course. K62 Creative Writing Level: 7 8 Creative Writing elective course provides students the opportunity to read models of outstanding poetry and prose. They will write poetry, stories, plays, essays, descriptions as well as other literary forms. Students are encouraged to experiment with ideas and moods while learning to express themselves through these various writing forms. K63 Exploring Literature & Writing Level: 8 /1 trimester Exploring Literature and Writing elective course allows eighth grade students to examine a variety of literature. Emphasis is on writing and reading mythology, novels, poetry, drama, folklore, short story, biography, and informative/expository. Students respond to literature and study literary elements while improving oral and written communication skills. The course provides experiences that will challenge the student to examine and expand interests and abilities. 14

15 K69 Publications Level: 8 /1 trimester Art, computer or photography skills are helpful. group and to meet deadlines are important qualifications. Boulder Valley School District This course is designed for 8th grade students interested in learning desktop publishing programs and yearbook publication. While the primary focus will be on the design and layout of the middle level yearbook, students will be instructed in computer basics, a desktop publishing program, basic bookkeeping skills, photography, writing skills, and advertising. The ability to work independently and within a K81 Reading Workshop Level: 6 8 /1 trimester Prerequisites: Teacher, IEP or ILP Recommendation Reading Workshop is designed for students reading below grade level. This course develops skillfulness in using phonological awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension for reading a variety of texts. Students are involved in a variety of instructor directed, individual, and group activities while developing a lifelong appreciation of reading. Formative assessments and student self assessments determine the needs of each student, and instruction is designed to meet those needs. K82 Accelerated Reading Level: 6 8 /1 trimester Accelerated Reading course is for students reading at or above grade level. The course provides the opportunity for comprehending and analyzing texts. Students read material for interest, information, and pleasure. It is designed for the student who enjoys the love of reading, enjoys discussion and analysis, thinks critically and is self motivated. K90 Independent Study in English Language Arts Level: 7 8 /1 trimester Prerequisites: Faculty Sponsor If a student wants to take an independent study course in this content area, he or she must complete an Independent Study Contract with a teacher willing to sponsor the independent study. A teacher may sponsor an independent study only if he or she is highly qualified in the content area of the independent study. The student and teacher must obtain the approval of the building administrator. Independent study will be approved only in advance and if it falls into one of the following categories: (a) study that goes beyond the academic program available at the school; (b) study that duplicates an elective class but which is unavailable to the student; (c) study that is truly individualized and cannot be taught within the curriculum; or (d) intensive summer programs or travel. K94 Theatre Arts 1 Level: 7 8 /1 trimester and perform what they are learning. Theatre Arts 1 elective course provides opportunities for students to learn about drama. Stage directions and theatrical vocabulary will be introduced. This course will provide situations for developing poise and confidence, interacting with others and appreciating the contribution of others. Reading, writing, speaking and listening skills will be applied as students demonstrate K95 Theatre Arts 2 Level: 8 / 1 trimester Theatre Arts 2 elective course follows Theatre Arts 1. Students continue to develop acting skills while preparing for and performing in plays. Students participate creatively in both acting and production details. Reading, writing, speaking and listening skills will be applied as students demonstrate and perform what they are learning. K96 Exploratory Acting Level: 7 Course Length: 1 quarter/ 1 trimester Exploratory Acting elective course focuses on gaining background in the basics of acting. Theatrical vocabulary is introduced. Emphasis is on pantomime, improvisation, and producing short plays. Students also discuss current stage plays and television drama. 15

16 KD6 Developmental 6th Grade Reading Level: 6 Length: 2 semesters/3 trimesters This course is designed for students at grade level and need additional instruction in reading strategies and skills. The course emphasizes comprehension strategies, reading in the content areas, study skills, higher level thinking skills, and overall improved competency in reading skills. KE1 Intensive Reading ESL Level: 6 8 /3 trimesters; may be repeated This course is for students new to English and will focus on oral language development linking to reading. Emphasis will be placed on graphophonic awareness, patterns of non fiction text, story structure, and elements of literature. KM6 6th Grade Reading Level: 6 /3 trimesters 6 th Grade Reading is a core curriculum class for all 6 th grade students. Emphasis is on reading and listening comprehension, elements of literature, vocabulary development, and reading skill and strategy instruction. Both narrative and informative/expository texts are utilized. KMS6 Spanish 6th Grade Reading Level: 6 / 3 trimesters Instruction is provided in Spanish. The five major components include reading and listening comprehension, elements of literature and grade level genres, vocabulary development, as well as reading skills and strategy instruction. Both fiction and non fiction print are utilized through novels, newspapers, textbooks, anthologies, and articles. Literature element strands are studied through the grade specific genres such as: author s purpose, main idea, setting, plot, point of view, and theme. Comprehension increases with the development of new vocabulary through the use of context clues and through writing. Cause and effect, fact and opinion, main idea, finding details, and sequence are examples of reading skills studied throughout the year. XASL Academic Support English Language Arts/Literacy Level: 6 12 Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in an English Language Arts or Literacy course The Academic Support Class for English Language Arts is a second course taken concurrently with a standard level English Language Arts course. This course is designed to support student success in the standard level course through a combination of pre teaching, targeted in context skillbuilding and a variety of reading and writing strategies. 16

17 Middle Level Family & Consumer Sciences H10 Exploratory Consumer and Family Studies Level: 6 Course Length: Variable; 6 12 weeks This course is designed to acquaint students with Family and Consumer Science Studies. Topics introduced include health, nutrition, food preparation, sewing, decision making and organizational skills. Cooperative learning groups and integration of all academic areas will be emphasized through practical experiences. H13 Foreign Foods and Fabrics Level: 7 8 / 1 trimester Course Fee: $20 maximum In this class students will research cultures from around the world as they relate to cuisine and food traditions. This course offers students an opportunity to select recipes and prepare foods as they become familiar with kitchen equipment and appropriate lab/safety procedures. Sewing activities will include the proper use of sewing equipment and construction techniques through the construction of at least one sewing project. H14 Home Alone Level: 7 8 / 1 trimester This course offers the students an opportunity to use critical thinking skills through practical life experiences. It introduces students to several areas of study including social skills, decision making, nutrition, food preparation, and creative sewing. Students will plan, prepare, serve, and evaluate breakfast, snack, and lunch items. They will construct at least one sewing project. Students will also examine how their interests and skills will affect their future choices. Activities are designed so that the students can use the information and skills in real life situations. H15 Food, Facts & Fun Level: 7 8 / 1 trimester This Consumer and Family Studies course provides students with the opportunity to research and prepare nutritious foods from the Food Guide Pyramid for healthy lifestyle choices. Students will use recipes to plan, prepare, serve and evaluate foods through the use of a variety of cooking techniques. Students will be required to demonstrate the use of appropriate safety, sanitation, and kitchen procedures. Food and nutrition topics may include herbs, spices, fast foods, convenience foods, snacks, baking, multicultural foods and eating disorders. H16 Consumer and Family CASH (Career Awareness Starts Here) Level: 7 8 / 1 trimester Career Awareness Starts Here! This course is designed to give students the opportunity to explore a variety of careers while emphasizing entry level job skills such as job application, interviews, resumes, and portfolios. Students will participate in several hands on job simulations that may include but not be limited to interiors, food service, childcare, and entrepreneurship. H79 Learning Assistant Level: 6 12 Teaching assistants will collaborate with their assigned classroom teacher for one semester. They will co teach everyday employing one or more of the four co teaching methods: supportive parallel, complementary and/or team. Classroom responsibilities will vary based on mutual agreement between the student and the classroom teacher. This course may be repeated. 17

18 Middle Level Health Education G06 6th Grade Health Level: 6 Course Length: Variable; 6 12 weeks an online format. Health Education in sixth grade is based on developing skills in relation to age appropriate health topics. By developing skills related to effectively accessing health resources, communicating, analyzing peer and media influences, goal setting, decision making, and health advocacy, students in BVSD will be able to achieve and maintain optimal wellness. This course is also available to be taken in G07 7th Grade Health Level: 7 / 1 trimester available to be taken in an online format. Health Education in seventh grade is based on developing skills in relation to age appropriate health topics. By developing skills related to effectively accessing health resources, communicating, analyzing peer and media influences, goal setting, decision making, and health advocacy, students in BVSD will be able to achieve and maintain optimal wellness. This course is also G08 8th Grade Health Level: 8 / 1 trimester available to be taken in an online format. Health education in eighth grade is based on developing skills in relation to age appropriate health topics. By developing skills related to effectively accessing health resources, communicating, analyzing peer and media influences, goal setting, decision making, and health advocacy, students in BVSD will be able to achieve and maintain optimal wellness. This course is also 18

19 Middle Level Mathematics M05 Math Standards 1 Level: 6 8 /3 trimesters Course Fee: $6 maximum In Math Standards 1, instructional time should focus on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of number to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers; (3) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and (4) developing understanding of statistical thinking. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. M15 Math Standards 2 Level: 6 8 /3 trimesters Course Fee: $6 maximum In Math Standards 2, instructional time should focus on four critical areas: (1) developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships; (2) developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations; (3) solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions and working with two and three dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume; and (4) drawing inferences about populations based on samples. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. M24 Compacted 7 th /8 th Mathematics Level: 6 7 /3 trimesters Prerequisites: M05 Math Standards 1 Course Fee: $6 maximum This is a course for 6th and 7th grade level students, via 5th grade teacher recommendation, score on a math assessment, TCAP scores, and counselor approval. M24 covers number operations, introductory probability and statistics, coordinate geometry and rate of change through linear algebra. Due to the compact nature of the course, students are asked to learn at a more rapid pace. Students will need to have a general understanding of fractions, decimals, special geometry, awareness and aptitude with common formulas, the coordinate plane, and algebra as a means for seeking unknown quantities. This class is for advanced students who love math and are excited by math and who can understand concepts very quickly. This course is designed for true abstract thinkers that get the concepts the first time and can do further extensions with math. This class will cover 2 years of math in 1 year. They are typically the highest scoring TCAP students. Taking M24 as a 6th grader means that they will take Algebra I or Advanced Algebra 1 as a 7th grader and Geometry or Advanced Geometry as an 8th grader. M25 Math Standards 3 Level: 6 8 /3 trimesters Course Fee: $6 maximum In Math Standards 3, instructional time should focus on three critical areas: (1) formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; (2) grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; (3) analyzing two and three dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. M30 Pre Algebra Level: 6 8 /3 trimesters Course Fee: $6 maximum This is an accelerated course that teaches the middle level topics covered in M05 and M15 in preparation for Algebra 1. Students will cover number operations, introductory probability and statistics, coordinate geometry and rate of change through linear algebra. Due to the compact nature of the course, students are asked to learn at a more rapid pace. Students will need to have a general understanding of fractions, decimals, special geometry, awareness and aptitude with common formulas, the coordinate plane, and algebra as a means for seeking unknown quantities. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. 19

20 M31 Algebra 1 Level: 8 12 Course Fee: $6 maximum Algebra 1 is an introduction to abstract reasoning and algebraic symbolism. Students will solve equations and systems of equations, and they will use functions to represent patterns and make predictions. The focus is on linear, exponential, and quadratic functions. Students will also employ algebraic methods to summarize data and to compare data sets. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. M35 Algebra 1 Advanced Level: 8 12 Course Fee: $6 maximum An in depth study of algebraic symbolism, systems of equations, graphing, problemsolving, and probability and statistics. The students will build upon their previous knowledge to further understand the characteristics and representations of various functions, and relations including: linear, exponential, and quadratic equations, inequalities, complex numbers, and rational algebraic expressions. This course is designed for highly motivated students. As an advanced course, this course goes beyond the curriculum expectations of a standard course offering by increasing the depth and complexity. Students are engaged in dynamic, high level learning. The pace of an advanced course may be faster than that of a standard course. M41 Geometry Level: 8 12 Prerequisites: M31 Algebra 1 or M35 Algebra 1 Advanced Course Fee: $6 maximum Geometry presents a thorough study of the structure of the postulational system and development of formal synthetic proof. It considers the topics of congruence, parallelism, perpendicularity, properties of polygons, similarity, and the relationships of circles, spheres, lines, and planes with respect to space as well as the plane. Basic principles of probability will be introduced. The maintenance of algebraic skills is emphasized. This course is also available to be taken in an online format. M43 Geometry Advanced wt Level: 8 12 Prerequisites: M35 Algebra 1 Advanced Course Fee: $6 maximum Advanced Geometry presents a thorough study of the structure of the postulational system and development of formal two column proof. It considers the topics of congruence, parallelism, perpendicularity, properties of polygons, similarity, and the relationships of circles, spheres, lines, and planes with respect to space as well as the plane. Basic principles of probability will be introduced. Use of algebraic skills is expected. As an advanced course, this course goes beyond the curriculum expectations of a standard course offering by increasing the depth and complexity. Students are engaged in dynamic, high level learning. The pace of an advanced course may be faster than that of a standard course. XASM Academic Support Mathematics Level: 6 12 Prerequisites: Concurrent enrollment in a Mathematics course Course Fee: $6 maximum mathematical strategies. The Academic Support Class for mathematics is a second course taken concurrently with a standard level math course. This course is designed to support student success in the standard level mathematics course through a combination of pre teaching, targeted in context skill building and a variety of 20

21 Middle Level Music N03 Beginning Orchestra Level: 6 /3 trimesters Beginning orchestra is a course for students who are interested in learning an orchestral stringed instrument. Performance based atmosphere including the following units of study: basic instrument techniques; basic music reading; basic musicianship and ensemble performance skills; and instrument care and safety. N05 Guitar 1 Level: 6 8 Course Length: Variable; 1 quarter, trimester, semester, or year Guitar One is a course for students with limited musical skill who are interested in learning to play the guitar. Expectations for students include acquiring proper performance skills and technique, music terminology and notation, and the relationship of the guitar in music history. This class includes concert/recital attendance after school hours. N06 Guitar 2 Level: 6 8 Course Length: Variable; 1 quarter, trimester, semester, or year Prerequisites: N05 Guitar 1 Guitar Two features progressively more demanding literature that encourages continued technical development and performance skills. Musicianship and performance skills are stressed within a guitar ensemble atmosphere. Public performance after school hours is an integral part of the course and is required. N08 Music in Technology Level: 6 8 /3 trimesters Music in Technology is the study of techniques of musical composition through the medium of contemporary music technology. Elements included are exposure to and hands on experiences in contemporary music software and composition; sound recording and mixing technology the application of multimedia; and careers in the music industry. N11 6 th Grade Choir Level: 6 /3 trimesters Sixth Grade Choir is a beginning course designed for students at the sixth grade level. Basic vocal techniques will be explored in a wide variety of musical styles, including introduction to part singing, music reading, and theory. Culminating performances are a meaningful and mandatory component of this class. N12 7 th Grade Choir Level: 7 /3 trimesters Seventh Grade Choir continues two part singing and introduces students to three and four part singing. Fundamental vocal techniques are continually reinforced along with creating, understanding, and discussing music. Culminating performances are a meaningful and mandatory component of this class. N15 8 th Grade Choir Level: 6 8 /3 trimesters Eighth Grade Choir continues three part singing and introduces students to four part singing. Fundamental vocal techniques are continually reinforced along with creating, understanding, and discussing music. Culminating performances are a meaningful and mandatory component of this class. 21