Tempe Elementary School District Middle School Course Descriptions

Transcription

1 Tempe Elementary School District Middle School Course Descriptions 1

2 6th Grade Core Courses Listed below are the course offerings for 6th grade students in the Tempe Elementary School District. Middle School students participate in four core classes: Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies. In addition, non-core courses are also available at each site. Language Arts Language Arts This course emphasizes reading, writing, and language skills in an integrated block format (two periods) for a full school year using Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Collections as the adopted instructional resource. Arizona College and Career Ready Standards guide rigorous learning where students apply reading comprehension strategies and increase academic vocabulary through the reading of both fiction and non-fiction text. Students will utilize Thinking Maps and the Write From the Beginning structures to support their learning of writing process, strategies, and applications. Language Arts* ADVANCED (Connolly only) In addition to grade level expectations, this course is intended to challenge students qualitatively with higher Lexile reading levels and quantitatively through interpretation of literature and nonfiction text. Focusing on the Arizona College and Career Ready Standards, students will recognize relationships while reading more complex text. The blocked (two periods) advanced language arts course engages students who possess the capacity to use critical thinking skills, focus on advanced writing skills and essay construction, and refine writing to meet the demands of an ever-changing world. Students work at an above-grade-level pace. All advanced language arts students participate in Socratic discussion, and prepare for philosophical debates. They are also required to enter a writing contest each year. Language Arts* HONORS In addition to grade level expectations, this course will incorporate higher academic rigor through pacing, depth, and complexity. Students will recognize and explore universal themes occurring in literature through higher-level thinking and inquiry. The accelerated and enriched blocked (two periods) honors language arts course challenges students to critically examine topics through communication, writing, language, and literary analysis. 6th Grade Language Arts ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This integrated Language Arts Block, utilizing an Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum is designed for gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy who want extensive academic rigor, with a higher pacing, and increased depth and complexity of learning. Utilizing Project Based Learning opportunities, ASPIRE Language Arts students employ higher-level critical and creative thinking to explore universal themes in literature, critically examine topics through communication writing, language, and literary analysis, conduct individual research, analyze real-world problems, and develop projects that successfully address those problems. English Language/IB Language and Literature (Tempe Academy only) Arizona College and Career Readiness standards aligned curriculum, the five skill areas of literature, informational text, writing, listening and speaking, and language are developed. Students will learn to apply reading comprehension strategies and build new vocabulary through different genres of literature, including both fiction and informational texts. Students will practice a variety of writing applications by concentrating on the writing process to continually enhance their work. Teachers practice differentiating instruction to ensure the learning of all students in an engaging and rigorous environment. We strive to have students become stellar communicators who can provide evidence and back up their claims. They can communicate to different audiences for specific purposes. 2

3 English Language Development* English Writing (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s proficiency. Students will utilize Thinking Maps and Write From the Beginning writing structures to support their learning of the writing process and writing applications. English Reading and Oral Language Development/ Vocabulary (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s English proficiency. Students learning will focus on vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and literary response/analysis. English Grammar (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s English proficiency. Student learning will focus on the foundation of the English language, grammar and structure. Students will study basic syntactic elements along with phonetic and semantic aspects of language. Math Language Arts (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s English proficiency. This course will provide instruction in reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary and oral conversation in an integrated block format for a full school year. M Math Math 1 This course teaches the 6th grade Arizona Math Standards. In Math 1, instructional time is focused on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division 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. Math 1 Extension This course is designed for students with more academic rigor, greater depth, and complexity of learning. Students will implement skills in real-world applications and problem solving situations. Students will apply the eight Arizona College and Career Ready Mathematical Practices to all areas under study. They will be asked to persevere in solving problems, to reason abstractly and quantitatively, to construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others, to model mathematics, to use appropriate tools, to attend to precision, to make use of structure, and to express regularity in repeated reasoning. instructional time is focused on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division 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 should be taken with Math 6 is designed to prepare students for Math 7. Math 2 This course teaches the7th grade Arizona Math Standards. In Math 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. 3

4 6th Grade Core Courses (cont.) 4 Math 1 ASPIRE (Connolly Only)* In Math 1 ASPIRE, instructional time is focused on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division 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 designed for gifted students who want more academic rigor, including faster pacing, greater depth, and complexity of learning. Students will apply the eight Arizona College and Career Ready Mathematical Practices to all areas under study. They will be asked to persevere in solving problems, to reason abstractly and quantitatively, to construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others, to model mathematics, to use appropriate tools, to attend to precision, to make use of structure, and to express regularity in repeated reasoning. This course should be taken with Math 6 Extension ASPIRE is designed to prepare students for Math 7 ASPIRE. Math 1 Extension ASPIRE* This course is designed for gifted students who want more academic rigor, including faster pacing, greater depth, and complexity of learning. Students will implement skills in real-world applications and problem solving situations. Students will apply the eight Arizona College and Career Ready Mathematical Practices to all areas under study. They will be asked to persevere in solving problems, to reason abstractly and quantitatively, to construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others, to model mathematics, to use appropriate tools, to attend to precision, to make use of structure, and to express regularity in repeated reasoning. instructional time is focused on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division 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 should be taken with Math 6 ASPIRE is designed to prepare students for Math 7 ASPIRE. Mathematics/IB Maths (Tempe Academy only) The aim of math at TAIS is that students become competent users of the language of mathematics and begin to use it as a way of thinking, as opposed to seeing it as a series of facts and equations to be memorized. Students are taught to acquire mathematical understanding by constructing their own meaning through increasing levels of abstraction, starting with an exploration of their own personal experiences, understandings and knowledge. Teaching and learning experiences challenge students to be curious, ask questions, and explore and interact with the environment physically, socially and intellectually. Through engaging in this process, students are able to construct meaning about mathematics concepts, transfer this meaning to symbols and apply mathematical understanding in familiar and unfamiliar situations. Science Science This course teaches life science, physical science and earth science. The inquiry process, history and nature of science, and science in personal and social perspectives is applied to all units as students will cover relationships between structures and functions of plants and animals in their environment, how energy can be generated, stored, and transferred, and the description of composition and interactions of the Earth, its atmosphere, and the Earth s systems. Health units include understanding relationships and human reproduction, disease prevention, drug prevention, personal protection strategies, and nutrition. Science* HONORS This course includes the same curriculum as 6th grade science but offers more in-depth exploration of challenging activities that involve higher-level thinking skills and communication skills, real-life application, and more complex lab experiences. 6th Grade Science ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This course includes the same Arizona Science and Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum as 6th grade science and honors science,

5 but offers gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy extensive academic rigor, including higher pacing, and greater depth and complexity of learning. Utilizing Project Based Learning opportunities, ASPIRE Science students employ higher-level critical and creative thinking to engage in more complex lab experiences and to apply scientific concepts to analyze real-world problems, identify solutions, and develop projects that successfully address those problems. 6th Grade STEM Science* (Fees College Prep only) This course includes the same Arizona Science and Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum as 6th grade science and honors science but offers a real world, hands-on application component. Students will begin to explore the tenets of STEM and how they relate to college and career readiness. Technology, engineering, and math are integrated seamlessly throughout each lesson. Students will develop critical thinking skills through discoverybased lessons. The full-year STEM elective will be taken with this course to provide more opportunities for lab work extensions. IB Science (Tempe Academy only) Science within the IB programmes encourages inquiry, curiosity and ingenuity. Students should develop an understanding of the resources of a rapidly changing scientific and technological society and how to use those resources wisely. Students of all ages reflect on the ethical, social, economic, political, cultural and environmental implications of using science to solve specific problems. Learning through investigation is stressed so that students construct meaning by designing, conducting and reflecting on scientific investigations. Understanding the scientific process through hands-on experience, inquiry, and critical thinking, enables students to connect science to other areas of life. All this is done with the expectation that science is a collaborative undertaking. Social Studies Social Studies The five social studies disciplines of American History, World History, Civics/Government, Geography, and Economics form the foundation for understanding the human experience and developing related knowledge and skills for all Tempe Elementary School District students. The strands at this level emphasize World History from its earliest cultures through enlightenment, including the early cultures of the Americas. Arizona College and Career Ready State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies are embedded throughout the course. Social Studies* HONORS Honors Social Studies courses are designed to address the five disciplines of American History, World History, Civics/Government, Geography, and Economics in more depth and complexity, and at an accelerated pace. Because the course is designed for high-ability learners, there is a strong emphasis on higher-level thinking skills and concept development. In addition, opportunities for independent research exist. Arizona College and Career Ready State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies are embedded throughout the course. 6th Grade Social Studies ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This course includes the same Arizona Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum as 6th grade regular and Honors Social Studies, but offers gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy extensive academic rigor, including higher pacing, greater depth, and complexity of learning. Utilizing Project Based Learning opportunities, ASPIRE Social Studies students employ higher-level critical and creative thinking to conduct individual research, analyze real-world social studies problems, and develop projects that successfully address those problems. Humanities/IB Individuals and Societies (Tempe Academy) The humanities and social science lie at the center of a global education, and throughout their time at TAIS students visit and revisit core concepts related to humanity and the relationship between individuals, groups and their world. The study of individuals and societies encourages students to respect and understand the world around them and equips them with the necessary skills to inquire into historical, contemporary, geographical, political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural factors that have an impact on individuals, societies and environments. There is a focus on the development of critical and creative thinking skills that students can eventually apply in a wide variety of areas of interest and careers. 5

6 6th Grade Non-Core Elective Courses Non core elective courses are offered at each middle school to provide additional learning opportunities to middle school students. The availability of non-core courses depends on the grade level of the student, program availability, and staffing. Non-core elective courses are assigned to students in the sixth grade (with the exception of music). Non-Core Elective Courses Art (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep, and Gililland) 9-week course at Connolly, ASPIRE at Fees College Prep and Gililland This exploratory course introduces students to the building blocks of art: the elements of art and principles of design. Inspired by art that spans cultures and time, students will utilize a variety of materials to create art that celebrates multiple perspectives while providing relevance to their daily life. Art (6th-8th grades - Laird, Ward Traditional Academy, and Tempe Academy) This course provides relevant, engaging learning in art, while exposing the student to art from across the globe and throughout history. Focus will be on the elements of art and principles of design, while offering a wide range of dynamic studio activities. Visual Arts (Tempe Academy) This course provides relevant, engaging learning in art while exposing the student to art from across the globe and throughout history. Focus will be on the elements of art and principles of design, while offering a wide range of dynamic studio activities. AVID Advancement Via Individual Determination (Connolly and Laird only) AVID is an elective course that students attend daily to help them succeed in a rigorous curriculum. This program identifies average performing students and prepares them for a four-year college. Applications are available from the Connolly Middle School counselors. Selection is based on teacher recommendation, application information, student data, and interviews. For more information, contact Connolly Middle School or pick up a brochure in the Connolly office. Project Based Learning ASPIRE* (Connolly only) Semester The ASPIRE Academy offers Project Based Learning (PBL) as an instructional elective for students in 6th 8th grades. Project Based Learning electives provide student-directed hands-on learning opportunities in which students work collaboratively to identify problems, conduct research, evaluate information, and develop solutions. With teacher guidance, PBL students create their own learning experiences aligned with Arizona College and Career Ready Standards. PBL projects are complex tasks that engage both critical and creative thinking concepts and strategies to fully explore realistic products or presentations and to seek solutions to real world problems. Innovation Action Labs - STEM Elective* (Fees College Prep only) Students will be introduced to STEM concepts and how these concepts relate to the real world. The Paxton Patterson Action Labs offer hands-on, discovery-based modules across a variety of science, technology, engineering, and math fields. Action Labs promote critical thinking and collaboration among students. Each lesson is aligned to current Arizona Science and Arizona College and Career Ready Standards. The labs are designed for all students and encourage users to be scientifically aware, engaged in exploration, and experience the world around them. Example labs include programming a robot, designing and building a laser, digital music and video production, and forensic analysis. Computer Technology 9-week course ( at Fees College Prep and Gililland) This introductory course will focus on the fundamentals of computer use. The technology class implements the Arizona technology standards, which are designed to provide foundational skills and processes that students need in order to work 6

7 productively and creatively in their studies at work and at home. To implement these standards, students will develop skills to increase creativity and production utilizing the computer as a tool. Students begin by learning keyboarding, composition, editing, and formatting skills using a word document. The exploration of computer programs includes spreadsheets and presentation software. Computer ethics, copyright, fair use, and Internet safety will also be explored. Coding (Apps) (Tempe Academy) Students learn the basics of programming by creating their first app. Students use web-based tools to program and design their apps, and learn both concrete development skills and principles of design. The end goal of this course is to give students the skills needed to create any app they can imagine and publish it in an app gallery. Coding (Gaming) (Tempe Academy) In this course, young students enter the world of computer science by learning how to create animations, computer games, and interactive projects. Students use Khan academy and go through the basics of JavaScript, eventually creating games with JavaScript. Students learn fundamental programming concepts such as variables, loops, conditional statements, and event handling. As they teach a mischievous cat to dance, explore a maze, or play games, students learn how to use math and computer code to think creatively. The course will show students how to make and import objects, create audio recordings, and use them to develop interactive projects. No previous programming skills are required, but students should be comfortable using a computer and browser, and managing files. News Broadcasting (Tempe Academy) TAIS News Team is an elective course that engages students in the world of video production. Students plan, produce, and broadcast news segments to the rest of the school on a regular basis. News Team offers students hands-on studio equipment use such as: computers, digital camcorders and cameras, audio equipment, tripods, and editing software such as imovie. Students learn how to go through the creative process of scriptwriting and storyboarding, filming, and editing complete news packages from start to finish. Students will not only learn the language of the studio as professionals use it, but also, they will experience the importance of meeting deadlines and working together collaboratively as a team. Family and Consumer Science (Connolly only) 9-week course This course is an interdisciplinary study that applies academic learning to everyday life. Students will work individually and in small groups to learn about food and nutrition, sewing, and life skills. Physical Education Semester Middle school physical education classes provide learning experiences that meet students developmental needs. This assists in improving mental alertness, academic performance, a readiness and enthusiasm for learning along with the knowledge, skills and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of health related physical activity. Students participate in a wide variety of activities that develop a balance of skills, concepts, game activities, rhythms, and dance experiences designed to enhance the cognitive, motor, affective and physical development of every student. Through daily physical education activities, students have the opportunity to question, integrate, analyze, communicate, and gain a multicultural view of the world. Classes are designed so that ALL students are involved in activities that allow them to remain continuously active. IB Health and Physical Education (Tempe Academy only) PHE provides learning experiences that meet students developmental needs. This assists in improving mental alertness, academic performance, a readiness and enthusiasm for learning along with the knowledge, skills and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of health related physical activity. Students participate in a wide variety of activities that develop a balance of skills, concepts, game activities, rhythms, and dance experiences designed to enhance the cognitive, motor, affective and physical development of every student. Through daily physical education activities, students have the opportunity to question, integrate, analyze, communicate, and gain a multicultural view of the world. Classes are designed so that ALL students are involved in activities that allow them to remain continuously active. 7

8 6th Grade Non-Core Elective Courses (cont d) Life Skills (Gililland only) This course provides students with skills and strategies related to time management, organization, note taking (Cornell notes), and study skills. All the tools and strategies needed for success are presented in an easy to follow and understandable format for all students. Spanish 9-week course This course combines immersion learning from the Rosetta Stone Solution Program and pedagogy that includes student and teacher interaction on a regular basis. With Rosetta Stone, students learn key language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking, and the instruction can be modified to support individual learning styles. Students progress at their own pace. Spanish/IB Language Acquisition (Tempe Academy only) The lifelong skills of listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing and presenting are developed through language acquisition in all four levels of Spanish. Students are encouraged to gain competence in an additional language with the long-term goal of multilingualism. Through studying other languages, students develop an awareness and understanding of the perspectives of people from other cultures. The knowledge, skills and attitudes that students develop in language acquisition courses provide a meaningful foundation for these further studies, as well as the world of work in global economies and international business. Music Music (Tempe Academy) This course offers students a wide range of musical experiences. Students create original compositions by using guitars, pianos, computers, and voices. They then evaluate their performances using studentcreated criteria, and compare and contrast their works with works by professional composers. Students are given many opportunities to perform throughout the year, but performances outside of class are not a requirement. 6th Grade Beginning Band (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep, Tempe Academy) This is a class for students who have no prior performance experience or may benefit from a review of performance fundamentals on one of the following instruments: flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet/cornet, french horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion (both pitched and nonpitched instruments). Basic fundamentals of music are stressed. This ensemble may prepare and perform concerts each semester, some of which may be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Band (Intermediate) (Tempe Academy) This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing a band instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. This ensemble may prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours, and special concert attire may be worn. 6th Grade Beginning/Intermediate Band (Gililland, Laird, Ward Traditional Academy), before school at Ward Traditional Academy This is a class for students who have no prior performance experience or may benefit from a review of performance fundamentals on one of the following instruments: flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet/cornet, french horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion (both pitched and nonpitched instruments). Basic fundamentals of music are stressed. This ensemble may prepare and perform concerts each semester, some of which may be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 6th Grade Advanced Band (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep, Gililland, Ward Traditional Academy), before school at Ward Traditional Academy 8

9 This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of successful playing experience on a band instrument. Fundamental playing skills specific to instrument families (brass, woodwind, percussion) and music theory will be studied. This ensemble will prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. tion Courses Orchestra (Tempe Academy) This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Beginning students may join, though they may need to practice more at home at the beginning of the year. Reading and performance skills are stressed in preparation for more advanced orchestras. This ensemble may prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 6th Grade Beginning/Intermediate Orchestra (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep) This is a class for students who have no prior performance experience or may benefit from a review of performance fundamentals on one of the following instruments: violin, viola, cello, string bass. Basic fundamentals of music are stressed. This ensemble may prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which may be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 6th Grade Preparatory Blue Orchestra (Gililland only) Full year course. This is a class for students who have no prior performance experience or may benefit from a review of performance fundamentals on one of the following instruments: violin, viola, cello, string bass. Basic fundamentals of music are stressed. This ensemble will prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 6/7/8 Beginning/Intermediate Orchestra (Laird, Ward Traditional Academy, Tempe Academy) This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument: violin, viola, cello, bass. Beginning students may join, though they may need to practice more at home at the beginning of the year. Reading and performance skills are stressed in preparation for more advanced orchestras. This ensemble will prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 6/7/8 Intermediate/Advanced Orchestra (Ward Traditional Academy only) Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation/audtion This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Reading and performance skills are stressed in preparation for more advanced orchestras. This ensemble will prepare and perform concerts each quarter most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire will be worn. 6th Grade Advanced Orchestra (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep) This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Reading and performance skills are stressed in preparation for more advanced orchestras. This ensemble will prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Choir (Tempe Academy) This is a performance-oriented class with emphasis on vocal music reading, correct vocal production, and performance. This ensemble may prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 6th Grade Mixed Choir (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep, Gililland. Ward Traditional Academy includes grades 6-8 and is taught before school) This is a performance-oriented class with emphasis on the basic fundamentals of music, vocal music 9

10 6th Grade Non-Core Elective Courses (cont d) reading, correct vocal production, and performance. These ensembles will prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which may be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 6/7/8 Choir & Keyboarding (Laird only) These are performance-oriented classes with emphasis on the basic fundamentals of music, vocal music reading, correct vocal production, and performance. Piano skills taught include hand position, chords, and music reading in both bass clef and treble clef. Students perform in required concerts. These ensembles will perform concerts each semester, most of which may be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Beginning Guitar (Fees College Prep only) Students in this class learn to use the guitar as a rhythm, accompaniment, and solo instrument. All students learn to read from the staff as well as how to use chord tablature. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required. 6/7/8 Guitar (Laird only) Students in this class learn to use the guitar as a rhythm, accompaniment, and solo instrument. All students learn to read from the staff as well as how to use chord tablature. Students will perform in a required concert each semester, which may be held outside of regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required. 6th Grade Music Technology (Connolly and ASPIRE only) This course is designed to help students live, learn, and work successfully and responsibly in an increasingly complex, technology-driven society. The music technology class implements the Arizona technology standards, which are designed to provide foundational skills and processes that students need in order to work productively and creatively in their studies at work and at home. To implement these standards, students will use critical listening skills, evaluate form, create personal compositions, and work as a recording engineer. Theatre (Fees College Prep only) Students will be introduced to theatre and dramatic arts such as plays, musicals, film, history, and production elements and design. Theatre arts explore the embodiment of social engagement through out history and propels us to think critically of our futures through artistic practice. Students will be able to create environments with classroom materials, develop a character through improvisation, work collaboratively to create dramatic work, create performance pieces, interpret and create stories using dramatic methods, draw parallels between dramatic work and real life, and reflect on their work and the work of their peers. Theatre (Tempe Academy only) In this engaging and imaginative course, students will be introduced to theatre and dramatic arts, such as plays and musicals, theatre history, and technical theatre production. Theatre explores the embodiment of social engagement and propels us to think critically about ourselves through artistic practice. Students will create characters and environments with classroom materials, develop fun improvisation skills, work collaboratively on a daily basis, experience how actors, directors, designers, and audiences communicate with one another, draw parallels between staged work and real life, and reflect on their work and the work of their peers in a supportive classroom culture. Dance (Fees College Prep only) Students will be introduced to dance concepts such as time, space, cultural literacy, and kinesiology and how these concepts relate themselves and the world around them. Dance pre-dates oral and written language as a form of communication, requiring students to think critically and creatively about how they can communicate through the language of dance. Contemporary dance (modern) focuses on the body, breath, and communication of abstract ideas through movement. It introduces 10

11 dance technique and theory that is designed to enhance the dancer s technical and artistic proficiency by using movement that is athletically and intellectually challenging, nuanced, and rhythmically complex. Urban Practices (Hip Hop) focuses on movement that responds to cultural awareness, history, and identity. It introduces dance technique and theory that is culturally relevant and socially engaged.students will be able to create movement sequences using choreographic tools, explore ideas through improvisation, work collaboratively to generate creative work, interpret performance and abstract ideas, cultivate relationships between dance and real life, and reflect upon and evaluate their own creations and the work of their peers.nt Intervention Courses Intervention courses are semester-long or full-year. Reading Intervention* This course is designed for students who would benefit from additional reading skills development. Small group instruction will focus on individual student needs. Math T2 This course is designed for students who would benefit from additional math skills development. Small group instruction will focus on individual student needs. Math INT T3 This course is designed for students who would benefit from additional math skills development. Small group instruction will focus on individual student needs. (Additional math course in lieu of an elective) Native American Literacy Program* (Fees College Prep only) This course is designed for eligible students who would benefit from additional math skill development. The course uses supplemental math programs using technology, in small groups, with a focus on individual student needs. Culturally relevant materials are utilized to assist students in achieving proficiency. 11

12 7th Grade Core Courses Listed below are the course offerings for 7th grade students in the Tempe Elementary School District. Middle School students participate in four core classes: Language Arts, Math, Science and Social Studies. In addition, non-core electives are also available at each site. Language Arts Language Arts This course emphasizes reading, writing, and language skills in an integrated block format (two periods) for a full school year using Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Collections as the adopted instructional resource. Arizona College and Career Ready Standards guide rigorous learning where students apply reading comprehension strategies and increase academic vocabulary through the reading of both fiction and non-fiction text. Students will utilize Thinking Maps and the Write From the Beginning structures to support their learning of writing process, strategies, and applications. Language Arts* ADVANCED (Connolly only) In addition to grade level expectations, this course is intended to challenge students qualitatively with higher Lexile reading levels and quantitatively through interpretation of literature and nonfiction text. Focusing on the Arizona College and Career Ready Standards, students will recognize relationships while reading more complex text. The blocked (two periods) advanced language arts course engages students who possess the capacity to use critical thinking skills, focus on advanced writing skills and essay construction, and refine writing to meet the demands of an ever-changing world. Students work at an above-grade-level pace. All advanced language arts students participate in Socratic discussion, and prepare for philosophical debates. They are also required to enter a writing contest each year. Language Arts* HONORS In addition to grade level expectations, this course will incorporate higher academic rigor through pacing, depth, and complexity. Students will recognize and explore universal themes occurring in literature through higher-level thinking and inquiry. The accelerated and enriched blocked (two periods) honors language arts course challenges students to critically examine topics through communication, writing, language, and literary analysis. 7th Grade Language Arts ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This integrated Language Arts Block utilizing an Arizona College and Career Ready based curriculum is designed for gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy who want extensive academic rigor with higher pacing, and increased depth and complexity of learning. In addition to grade-level and Honorslevel expectations, including critical examination of Language Arts topics through communication, writing, language, and literary analysis, ASPIRE Language Arts students will utilize Project Based Learning opportunities to employ higher-level critical and creative thinking to explore universal themes in literature, conduct individual research, analyze real-world problems, and develop projects that successfully address those problems. English Language Arts/IB Language and Literature (Tempe Academy) In this Arizona College and Career Readiness standards aligned curriculum, the five skill areas of literature, informational text, writing, listening and speaking, and language are developed. Students will learn to apply reading comprehension strategies and build new vocabulary through different genres of literature, including both fiction and informational texts. Students will practice a variety of writing applications by concentrating on the writing process to continually enhance their work. Teachers practice differentiating instruction to ensure the learning of all students in an engaging and rigorous environment. We strive to have students become stellar communicators who can provide evidence and back up their claims. They can communicate to different audiences for specific purposes. 12

13 English Language Development* English Writing (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s proficiency. Students will utilize Thinking Maps and Write From the Beginning writing structures to support their learning of the writing process and writing applications. English Reading and Oral Language Development/ Vocabulary (SEI)** This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s English proficiency. Students learning will focus on vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and literary response/analysis. English Grammar(SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s English proficiency. Student learning will focus on the foundation of the English language, grammar and structure. Students will study basic syntactic elements along with phonetic and semantic aspects of language. Language Arts (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s English proficiency. This course will provide instruction in reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary and oral conversation in an integrated block format for a full school year. Math Math 2 This course teaches the7th grade Arizona Math Standards. In Math 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. Math 3 This course teaches the 8th grade Arizona Math Standards. In Math 3, instructional time is focused 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. Math T2 This course is designed for students who would benefit from additional math skills development. Small group instruction will focus on individual student needs. Math 2 ASPIRE* (Connolly only) In Math 2 ASPIRE, 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. The course is designed for students who want extensive academic rigor, including faster pacing and greater depth, and complexity of learning. Students will apply the eight Arizona College and Career Ready Mathematical Practices to all areas under study. They will be asked to persevere in 13

14 7th Grade Core Courses (cont.) solving problems, to reason abstractly and quantitatively, to construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others, to model mathematics, to use appropriate tools, to attend to precision, to make use of structure, and to express regularity in repeated reasoning. Students will implement skills in real-world application and problem solving situations. Math 3 ASPIRE (Connolly only) In Math 3 ASPIRE, instructional time is focused 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 threedimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. Algebra ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This course is designed to teach above-grade-level math skills to gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy. The course is designed for students who want extensive academic rigor, including faster pacing, greater depth, and complexity of learning. This course will focus on the Arizona Math Standards areas of: Modeling with Functions, Linear Functions, Linear Equations and Inequalities in One Variable, Linear Equations & Inequalities in Two Variables, Quadratic Functions and Equations, and Statistics. Students will apply the eight Arizona College and Career Ready Standards Mathematical Practices to all areas under study. They will be asked to persevere in solving problems, to reason abstractly and quantitatively, to construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others, to model mathematics, to use appropriate tools, to attend to precision, to make use of structure and to express regularity in repeated reasoning. This course is designed to meet the requirements for high school credit as described in the Articulation Agreement with Tempe Union High School District. Mathematics/IB Maths(Tempe Academy) The aim of math at TAIS is that students become competent users of the language of mathematics and begin to use it as a way of thinking, as opposed to seeing it as a series of facts and equations to be memorized. Students are taught to acquire mathematical understanding by constructing their own meaning through increasing levels of abstraction, starting with an exploration of their own personal experiences, understandings and knowledge. Teaching and learning experiences challenge students to be curious, ask questions, and explore and interact with the environment physically, socially and intellectually. Through engaging in this process, students are able to construct meaning about mathematics concepts, transfer this meaning to symbols and apply mathematical understanding in familiar and unfamiliar situations. Science Science This course teaches life science and earth science. The inquiry process, history and nature of science, and science in personal and social perspectives is applied to all units as students will analyze the relationships of various organisms and their environments, describe the composition and interactions between the structure of the Earth and its atmosphere, understand the processes acting on Earth and their interactions with Earth systems, and the relationships of the Earth and other objects in the solar system. Health units include understanding human reproduction, disease prevention, personal protection strategies, and developing decision-making skills. Science* HONORS This course includes the same curriculum as 7th grade science but offers more in-depth exploration of challenging activities that involve higher-level thinking skills and communication skills, real-life application, and more complex lab experiences. 7th Grade Science ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This course includes the same Arizona Science and Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum as 7th grade science and honors science, including Life and Earth Sciences, the inquiry process, the history and nature of science, and science in personal and social perspectives, but offers gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy extensive academic rigor, including higher pacing and greater depth 14

15 and complexity of learning. Utilizing Project Based Learning opportunities, ASPIRE Science students employ higher-level critical and creative thinking to engage in more complex lab experiences and to apply scientific concepts to analyze real-world problems, identify solutions, and develop projects that successfully address those problems. 7th Grade STEM Science* (Fees College Prep only) This course includes the same Arizona Science and Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum as 7th grade science and honors science but offers a real world, hands-on application component. Students will refine their understanding of the STEM tenets and how they relate to college and career readiness. Technology, engineering, and math are integrated seamlessly throughout each lesson. Students will continue to use their critical thinking skills through discovery-based lessons. The full-year STEM elective will be taken with this course to provide more opportunities for lab work extensions. IB Science (Tempe Academy) Science within the IB programmes encourages inquiry, curiosity and ingenuity. Students should develop an understanding of the resources of a rapidly changing scientific and technological society and how to use those resources wisely. Students of all ages reflect on the ethical, social, economic, political, cultural and environmental implications of using science to solve specific problems. Learning through investigation is stressed so that students construct meaning by designing, conducting and reflecting on scientific investigations. Understanding the scientific process through hands-on experience, inquiry, and critical thinking, enables students to connect science to other areas of life. All this is done with the expectation that science is a collaborative undertaking. Social Studies Social Studies The five social studies disciplines of American History, World History, Civics/Government, Geography and Economics form the foundation for understanding the human experience and developing related knowledge and skills for all Tempe Elementary School District students. The strands at this level emphasize American history from the Civil War through the Great Depression. In addition, students study the impact of the Industrial Revolution and imperialism on world events. Common Core State Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies are embedded throughout the course. Social Studies* HONORS Honors social studies courses are designed to address the five disciplines of American History, World History, Civics/Government, Geography, and Economics in more depth and complexity, and at an accelerated pace. Because the course is designed for high-ability learners, there is a strong emphasis on higher-level thinking skills and concept development. In addition, opportunities for independent research exist. Arizona College and Career Ready Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/ Social Studies are embedded throughout the course. 7th Grade Social Studies ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This course includes the same Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum as 7th grade regular and Honors social studies, including the five social studies disciplines of American History, World History, Civics/Government, Geography, and Economics, but offers gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy extensive academic rigor, including higher pacing and greater depth, breadth, and complexity of learning. Utilizing Project Based Learning opportunities, ASPIRE Social Studies students employ higher-level critical and creative thinking to conduct individual research, analyze real-world social studies problems, and develop projects that successfully address those problems. Humanities/IB Individuals and Societies (Tempe Academy) The humanities and social science lie at the center of a global education, and throughout their time at TAIS students visit and revisit core concepts related to humanity and the relationship between individuals, groups and their world. The study of individuals and societies encourages students to respect and understand the world around them and equips them with the necessary skills to inquire into historical, contemporary, geographical, political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural factors that have an impact on individuals, societies and environments. There is a focus on the development of critical and creative thinking skills that students can eventually apply in a wide variety of areas of interest and careers. 15

16 8th Grade Core Courses Listed below are the course offerings for 8th grade students in the Tempe Elementary School District. Middle School students participate in four core classes: Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. In addition, non-core electives are also available at each site. Language Arts Language Arts This course emphasizes reading, writing, and language skills in an integrated block format (two periods) for a full school year using Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Collections as the adopted instructional resource. Arizona College and Career Ready Standards guide rigorous learning where students apply reading comprehension strategies and increase academic vocabulary through the reading of both fiction and non-fiction text. Students will utilize Thinking Maps and the Write From the Beginning structures to support their learning of writing process, strategies, and applications. Language Arts* ADVANCED (Connolly only) In addition to grade level expectations, this course is intended to challenge students qualitatively with higher Lexile reading levels and quantitatively through interpretation of literature and nonfiction text. Focusing on the Arizona College and Career Ready Standards, students will recognize relationships while reading more complex text. The blocked (two periods) advanced language arts course engages students who possess the capacity to use critical thinking skills, focus on advanced writing skills and essay construction, and refine writing to meet the demands of an ever-changing world. Students work at an above-grade-level pace. All advanced language arts students participate in Socratic discussion, and prepare for philosophical debates. They are also required to enter a writing contest each year. Language Arts* HONORS In addition to grade level expectations, this course will incorporate higher academic rigor through pacing, depth, and complexity. Students will recognize and explore universal themes occurring in literature through higher-level thinking and inquiry. The accelerated and enriched blocked (two periods) honors language arts course challenges students to critically examine topics through communication, writing, language, and literary analysis. 8th Grade Language Arts ASPIRE*(Connolly Only) This integrated Language Arts Block utilizing an Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum is designed for gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy who want extensive academic rigor, with a faster pacing, and increased depth and complexity of learning. In addition to regular and Honors-level expectations, including critical examination of Language Arts topics through communication, writing, language, and literary analysis, ASPIRE Language Arts students will utilize Project Based Learning opportunities to employ higher-level critical and creative thinking to explore universal themes in literature, conduct individual research, analyze real-world problems, and develop projects that successfully address those problems. English Language Arts/IB Language and Literature (Tempe Academy) Arizona College and Career Readiness standards aligned curriculum, the five skill areas of literature, informational text, writing, listening and speaking, and language are developed. Students will learn to apply reading comprehension strategies and build new vocabulary through different genres of literature, including both fiction and informational texts. Students will practice a variety of writing applications by concentrating on the writing process to continually enhance their work. Teachers practice differentiating instruction to ensure the learning of all students in an engaging and rigorous environment. We strive to have students become stellar communicators who can provide evidence and back up their claims. They can communicate to different audiences for specific purposes. 16

17 English Language Development* English Writing (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s proficiency. Students will utilize Thinking Maps and Write From the Beginning writing structures to support their learning of the writing process and writing applications. English Reading and Oral Language Development/ Vocabulary (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s English proficiency. Students learning will focus on vocabulary, fluency, comprehension, and literary response/analysis. English Grammar (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s English proficiency. Student learning will focus on the foundation of the English language, grammar and structure. Students will study basic syntactic elements along with phonetic and semantic aspects of language. Language Arts (SEI)* This course is designed to assist students whose first language is not English to become proficient in the English language. Instruction will be designed with the guidance of the English Language Proficiency Standards (ELPs). The Arizona English Language Learners Assessment (AZELLA) determines the student s English proficiency. This course will provide instruction in reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary and oral conversation in an integrated block format for a full school year. Math Math 3 This course teaches the 8th grade Arizona Math Standards. In Math 3, instructional time is focused 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 threedimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. Honors Algebra* The fundamental purpose of this course is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. Because it is built on the middle grades standards, this is a more ambitious version of Algebra 1 that has been generally offered. The critical areas, called units, deepen and extend understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend, and students engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic functions. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations. This course is designed to meet the requirements for high school credit as described in the Articulation Agreement with Tempe Union High School District. Honors Geometry* The fundamental purpose of this course is to formalize and extend students geometric experiences from the middle grades. Students explore more complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships, moving towards formal mathematical arguments. Important differences exist between this Geometry course and the historical approach taken in Geometry classes. For example, transformations are emphasized early in this course. Close attention should be paid to the introductory content for the Geometry conceptual category found in the high school CCSS. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course, and, together 17

18 8th Grade Core Courses (cont.) 18 with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations. This course is designed to meet the requirements for high school credit as described in the Articulation Agreement with Tempe Union High School District. Honors Algebra ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This course is designed to teach above-grade-level math skills to gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy. The course is designed for students who want extensive academic rigor, including faster pacing, greater depth, and complexity of learning. This course will focus on the Arizona Math Standards areas of: Modeling with Functions, Linear Functions, Linear Equations and Inequalities in One Variable, Linear Equations & Inequalities in Two Variables, Quadratic Functions and Equations, and Statistics. Students will apply the eight Arizona College and Career Ready Standards Mathematical Practices to all areas under study. They will be asked to persevere in solving problems, to reason abstractly and quantitatively, to construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others, to model mathematics, to use appropriate tools, to attend to precision, to make use of structure and to express regularity in repeated reasoning. This course is designed to meet the requirements for high school credit as described in the Articulation Agreement with Tempe Union High School District. Honors Geometry ASPIRE *(Connolly only) This course is designed to teach above-grade-level math skills to gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy. The course is designed for students who want extensive academic rigor, including faster pacing and greater depth, breadth, and complexity of learning. This course will focus on the Arizona Math Standards areas of: Congruence, Geometric Constructions, and Rigid Motions; Geometric Relationships and Properties; Similarity; Coordinate Geometry; Circles and Conics; Geometric Measurement and Dimensions; Trigonometric Ratios; and Geometric Modeling. Students will apply the eight Arizona College and Career Ready Standards Mathematical Practices to all areas under study. They will be asked to persevere in solving problems, to reason abstractly and quantitatively, to construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others, to model mathematics, to use appropriate tools, to attend to precision, to make use of structure, and to express regularity in repeated reasoning. This course is designed to prepare ASPIRE students to take Algebra 3-4 or Honors Algebra 3-4 as described in the Articulation Agreement with the Tempe Union High School District. Mathematics/IB Maths (Tempe Academy) The aim of math at TAIS is that students become competent users of the language of mathematics and begin to use it as a way of thinking, as opposed to seeing it as a series of facts and equations to be memorized. Students are taught to acquire mathematical understanding by constructing their own meaning through increasing levels of abstraction, starting with an exploration of their own personal experiences, understandings and knowledge. Teaching and learning experiences challenge students to be curious, ask questions, and explore and interact with the environment physically, socially and intellectually. Through engaging in this process, students are able to construct meaning about mathematics concepts, transfer this meaning to symbols and apply mathematical understanding in familiar and unfamiliar situations. Science Science This course teaches life science and physical science. The inquiry process, history and nature of science, and science in personal and social perspectives is applied to all units as students will understand physical and chemical properties of matter, know the relationship between force and motion, and explain the purposes of cell division and the basic principles of heredity and dominant and recessive traits. Health units include understanding the human reproductive system, disease prevention, and facing peer pressure. Science HONORS* This course includes the same curriculum as 8th grade science but offers more in-depth exploration of challenging activities that involve higher-level thinking skills and communication skills, real-life application, investigations of self-selected topics, and more complex lab experiences.

19 8th Grade Science ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This course includes the same Arizona Science and Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum as 8th grade science and honors science, including life and physical sciences, the inquiry process, the history and nature of science, science in personal and social perspectives, physical and chemical properties of matter, the relationship between force and motion, the purposes of cell division, and the basic principles of heredity and dominant and recessive traits, but offers gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy extensive academic rigor, including faster pacing and greater depth, breadth, and complexity of learning. Utilizing Project Based Learning opportunities, ASPIRE Science students employ higher-level critical and creative thinking to engage in more complex lab experiences and to apply scientific concepts to analyze real-world problems, identify solutions, and develop projects that successfully address those problems. 8th Grade STEM Science * (Fees College Prep only) This course includes the same Arizona Science and Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum as 8th grade science and honors science but offers a real world, hands-on application component. Students will use discovery-based lessons to extend their knowledge of the STEM tenets and how they relate to college and career readiness. Technology, engineering, and math are integrated seamlessly throughout each lesson. Students will utilize their critical thinking skills through real-world projects offering solutions to pertinent problems. The full-year STEM elective will be taken with this course to provide more opportunities for lab work extensions. enables students to connect science to other areas of life. All this is done with the expectation that science is a collaborative undertaking. Social Studies Social Studies The five social studies disciplines of American History, World History, Civics/Government, Geography and Economics form the foundation for understanding the human experience and developing related knowledge and skills for all Tempe Elementary School District students. The strands at this level emphasize historical foundations, democracy, the Constitution, and world history from World War II to the contemporary world. Arizona College and Career Ready Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/Social Studies are embedded throughout the course. Social Studies* HONORS Honors social studies courses are designed to address the five disciplines of American History, World History, Civics/Government, Geography, and Economics in more depth and complexity, and at an accelerated pace. Because the course is designed for high-ability learners, there is a strong emphasis on higher-level thinking skills and concept development. In addition, opportunities for independent research exist. Arizona College and Career Ready Standards for English Language Arts and Literacy in History/ Social Studies are embedded throughout the course. I IB Science (Tempe Academy) Science within the IB programmes encourages inquiry, curiosity and ingenuity. Students should develop an understanding of the resources of a rapidly changing scientific and technological society and how to use those resources wisely. Students of all ages reflect on the ethical, social, economic, political, cultural and environmental implications of using science to solve specific problems. Learning through investigation is stressed so that students construct meaning by designing, conducting and reflecting on scientific investigations. Understanding the scientific process through hands-on experience, inquiry, and critical thinking, 19

20 8th Grade Core Courses (cont.) 8th Grade Social Studies ASPIRE* (Connolly only) This course includes the same Arizona College and Career Ready Standards-based curriculum as 8th grade regular and Honors social studies, including the five social studies disciplines of American History, World History, Civics/Government, Geography, and Economics, with an emphasis on historical foundations, democracy, the Constitution, and world history from World War II to the contemporary world, but offers gifted students in the ASPIRE Academy extensive academic rigor, including faster pacing and greater depth, breadth, and complexity of learning. Utilizing Project Based Learning opportunities, ASPIRE Social Studies students employ higher-level critical and creative thinking to conduct individual research, analyze real-world social studies problems, and develop projects that successfully address those problems. Humanities/IB Individuals and Societies (Tempe Academy) The humanities and social science lie at the center of a global education, and throughout their time at TAIS students visit and revisit core concepts related to humanity and the relationship between individuals, groups and their world. The study of individuals and societies encourages students to respect and understand the world around them and equips them with the necessary skills to inquire into historical, contemporary, geographical, political, social, economic, religious, technological and cultural factors that have an impact on individuals, societies and environments. There is a focus on the development of critical and creative thinking skills that students can eventually apply in a wide variety of areas of interest and careers. 20

21 7th/8th Grade Non-Core Elective Courses Non core electives are offered at each middle school to provide additional learning opportunities to middle school students. The availability of non-core elective classes depends on the grade level of the student, program availability, and staffing. Non-Core Elective Courses Art (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep, Gililland) This course provides relevant, engaging learning in art while exposing the student to art from across the globe and throughout history. Focus will be on the elements of art and principles of design, while offering a wide range of dynamic studio activities. Art (6th-8th grades - Laird, Ward Traditional Academy, and Tempe Academy) This course provides relevant, engaging learning in art, while exposing the student to art from across the globe and throughout history. Focus will be on the elements of art and principles of design, while offering a wide range of dynamic studio activities. Art* HONORS (Connolly, ASPIRE, and Fees College Prep only) Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation This course is for highly motivated, artistically talented, and/or spatially gifted students. The fast-paced, rigorous curriculum provides advanced skill development and more complex art processes. Visual Arts (Tempe Academy) This course provides relevant, engaging learning in art while exposing the student to art from across the globe and throughout history. Focus will be on the elements of art and principles of design, while offering a wide range of dynamic studio activities. AVID - Advancement Via Individual Determination* (Connolly only) AVID is an elective course that students attend daily to help them succeed in a rigorous curriculum. This program identifies average performing students and prepares them for a four-year college. Applications are available from the Connolly Middle School counselors. Selection is based on teacher recommendation, application information, student data, and interviews. For more information, contact Connolly Middle School or pick up a brochure in the Connolly office. Project Based Learning* (ASPIRE and Ward Traditional Academy only) 9 week/ Project Based Learning electives provide studentdirected hands-on learning opportunities in which students work collaboratively to identify problems, conduct research, evaluate information, and develop solutions. With teacher guidance, PBL students create their own learning experiences aligned with Arizona s College and Career Ready Standards. PBL projects are complex tasks that engage both critical and creative thinking concepts and strategies to fully explore realistic products or presentations and to seek solutions to real world problems. Innovation Action Labs - STEM Elective* (Fees College Prep only) Students will practice STEM concepts through independent, discovery-based models. The Paxton Patterson Action Labs offer hands-on, discoverybased modules across a variety of science, technology, engineering, and math fields. Action Labs promote critical thinking and collaboration among students. Each lesson is aligned to current Arizona Science and Arizona College and Career Ready Standards. The labs are designed for all students and encourage users to be scientifically aware, engaged in exploration, and experience the world around them. Example labs include programming a robot, designing and building a laser, digital music and video production, and forensic analysis. There will also be opportunities to explore health science careers in sports medicine, biomedical engineering, forensics, and veterinary medicine. Computer Technology (Core full-year course at Ward Traditional Academy) The computer technology class is designed to help students live, learn, and work successfully and responsibly in an increasingly complex, technology-driven 21

22 society. The class implements the Arizona technology standards, which are designed to provide foundational skills and processes that students need in order to work productively and creatively in their studies at work and at home. To implement these standards, students will learn keyboarding, word processing and spreadsheets, as well as how to create multimedia presentations that contain sound, movies, animation and digital tools. They will also use the Internet as an effective research tool. In addition, computer ethics, copyright, and fair use topics will be explored. This course will emphasize the computer as a tool. Family and Consumer Science (Connolly only) This course is education for life. It is designed to improve the quality of life for individuals and families. Students will learn skills and concepts to prepare them for future jobs and college. Units include child development, food preparation, sewing, and housing. Physical Education Middle school physical education classes provide learning experiences that meet students developmental needs. This assists in improving mental alertness, academic performance, and a readiness and enthusiasm for learning along with the knowledge, skills, and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of health-related physical activity. Students participate in a wide variety of activities that develop a balance of skills, concepts, game activities, rhythms, and dance experiences designed to enhance the cognitive, motor, and physical development of every student. Through daily physical education activities, students have the opportunity to question, integrate, analyze, communicate, and gain a multicultural view of the world. Classes are designed so that ALL students are involved in activities that allow them to remain continuously active. IB Physical and Health Education (Tempe Academy) PHE provides learning experiences that meet students developmental needs. This assists in improving mental alertness, academic performance, a readiness and enthusiasm for learning along with the knowledge, skills and confidence to enjoy a lifetime of health related physical activity. Students participate in a wide variety of activities that develop a balance of skills, concepts, game activities, rhythms, and dance experiences designed to enhance the cognitive, motor, affective and physical development of every student. Through daily physical education activities, students have the opportunity to question, integrate, analyze, communicate, and gain a multicultural view of the world. Classes are designed so that ALL students are involved in activities that allow them to remain continuously active. Community Service and Sustainability (Gililland only) Gililland Middle School offers many opportunities for students to serve their school and community. This class has been involved in two drives: a clothing drive and an e-waste drive. The students in this class are also responsible for packing the food bags for our students. This course will explore environmental issues, such as global warming, pollution, green businesses, alternative fuel, etc. through computer-based projects. Multimedia (Gililland only) Multimedia is an elective course that engages students in the world of multimedia video production. Students plan, produce, and broadcast school news on a daily basis. Multimedia offers students hands-on studio equipment use such as: computers, digital camcorders and cameras, audio equipment, tripods, and editing software such as Final Cut Pro and imovie. Students learn how to properly operate and maintain video equipment, as well as the planning process of scriptwriting and storyboarding. Students will learn the language of the studio as it is used by professionals, and the importance of working together as a team. Coding (Apps) (Tempe Academy) Students learn the basics of programming by creating their first app. Students use web-based tools to program and design their apps, and learn both concrete development skills and principles of design. The end goal of this course is to give students the skills needed to create any app they can imagine and publish it in an app gallery. Coding (Gaming) (Tempe Academy) In this course, young students enter the world of computer science by learning how to create animations, computer games, and interactive projects. Students use Khan academy and go through the basics of JavaScript, eventually creating games with JavaScript. Students learn fundamental programming concepts such as variables, loops, conditional statements, and event handling. As they teach a mischievous cat to dance, explore a maze, or play games, students learn how to use math and computer code to think creatively. The course will show students how to make and import objects, create 22

23 7th/8th Grade Non-Core Elective Courses (cont.) audio recordings, and use them to develop interactive projects. No previous programming skills are required, but students should be comfortable using a computer and browser, and managing files. Yearbook (Gililland) Full year course In this class, students are asked to participate in GMS events from behind the lens of the camera. This course provides practice in photography, gathering and analyzing information and interviewing for the purpose of writing, editing and publishing the school s yearbook. This class emphasizes team work, where students are expected to work together, learning the process of publishing a yearbook with accuracy, effective photography, design layout, fair and equal student representation, successful advertising, professional communication skills and time management. Yearbook (Tempe Academy) Yearbook students have the great responsibility of producing a full color, vibrant yearbook, which will forever be a precious memory of their social and educational experiences here at Tempe Academy of International Studies. Students are expected to work behind the scenes capturing moments, quotes, and lasting memories. The yearbook staff will work diligently to fully cover all school related events and activities. Students learn design, layout, graphics, photography, writing, advertising, sales, and promotional materials. This class encourages students focus on product development, fulfilling responsibilities, meeting deadlines, and working as a creative team. News Broadcasting (Tempe Academy) TAIS News Team is an elective course that engages students in the world of video production. Students plan, produce, and broadcast news segments to the rest of the school on a regular basis. News Team offers students hands-on studio equipment use such as: computers, digital camcorders and cameras, audio equipment, tripods, and editing software such as imovie. Students learn how to go through the creative process of scriptwriting and storyboarding, filming, and editing complete news packages from start to finish. Students will not only learn the language of the studio as professionals use it, but also, they will experience the importance of meeting deadlines and working together collaboratively as a team. Journalism (Gililland) Full year course Journalism is an elective offered to 7th and 8th grade students. Students in this class will learn the basics of Journalism including: brainstorming newsworthy topics, gathering relevant information, interviewing, and news writing. Students will be responsible for writing articles for the Gililland News Website, gilillandnews.weebly.com, and the school newsletter the Roadrunner Report. The Adventures of a Super Healthy Teen (Gililland only) This course is designed to assist students in the development of lifelong positive attitudes and behaviors, and make wise decisions related to their personal health. Study will include personal health; mental, emotional, and social health; muscular and skeletal system; nutrition, diet, and physical activity; alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs; and human growth and development. Drama (Gililland only) This class will have a specific focus on Theater. Students will be exposed to many forms, genres, and technical aspects of Theater, as well as creating and performing. In addition to classroom activities, the students will also be participating in a Showcase. Drama class is engaging and requires participation from the students to be successful! Students will be learning through a variety of introverted and extroverted activities and assignments. Cardio Blast (Gililland only) Students will engage in cardio and resistance training to fire-up their metabolisms. Students will have a blast burning calories, strengthening and defining muscles, and improving agility, endurance, coordination, flexibility and balance. Sports Conditioning (Gililland only) This class will provide an opportunity for the devel- 23

24 opment of strength and conditioning for various sports and fitness related activities. Body weight core training, exercise machines and conditioning activities will be incorporated to promote improvement in strength, endurance, balance, agility, and speed. Proper technique, safety precautions and proper application of the principles of training will be emphasized. A plan to achieve goals will be developed and implemented during this semester course. Music Music (Tempe Academy) This course offers students a wide range of musical experiences. Students create original compositions by using guitars, pianos, computers, and voices. They then evaluate their performances using student-created criteria, and compare and contrast their works with works by professional composers. Students are given many opportunities to perform throughout the year, but performances outside of class are not a requirement. Music Technology (Connolly only) This course is designed to help students live, learn and work successfully and responsibly in an increasingly complex, technology-driven society. The music technology class implements the Arizona Technology standards, which are designed to provide foundational skills and processes that students need in order to work productively and creatively in their studies at work and at home. To implement these standards, students will use critical listening skills, evaluate form, create personal compositions, and work as a recording engineer. Music Performing Arts (Tempe Academy only) This course offers students a wide range of musical experiences. Students create original compositions by using guitars, pianos, computers, and voices. They then evaluate their performances using student-created criteria, and compare and contrast their works with works by professional composers. Students are given many opportunities to perform throughout the year, but performances outside of class are not a requirement. Theatre (Fees College Prep and Tempe Academy only) Students will be introduced to theatre and dramatic arts such as plays, musicals, film, history, and production elements and design. Theatre arts explore the embodiment of social engagement through out history and propels us to think critically of our futures through artistic practice. Students will be able to create environments with classroom materials, develop a character through improvisation, work collaboratively to create dramatic work, create performance pieces, interpret and create stories using dramatic methods, draw parallels between dramatic work and real life, and reflect on their work and the work of their peers. Dance (Fees College Prep only) Students will be introduced to dance concepts such as time, space, cultural literacy, and kinesiology and how these concepts relate themselves and the world around them. Dance pre-dates oral and written language as a form of communication, requiring students to think critically and creatively about how they can communicate through the language of dance. Contemporary dance (modern) focuses on the body, breath, and communication of abstract ideas through movement. It introduces dance technique and theory that is designed to enhance the dancer s technical and artistic proficiency by using movement that is athletically and intellectually challenging, nuanced, and rhythmically complex. Urban Practices (Hip Hop) focuses on movement that responds to cultural awareness, history, and identity. It introduces dance technique and theory that is culturally relevant and socially engaged.students will be able to create movement sequences using choreographic tools, explore ideas through improvisation, work collaboratively to generate creative work, interpret performance and abstract ideas, cultivate relationships between dance and real life, and reflect upon and evaluate their own creations and the work of their peers. Band Courses Beginning Band (Fees College Prep Gililland, and Tempe Academy) This course is for students who have no prior performance experience or may benefit with a review of performance fundamentals on one of the following instruments: flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet/cornet, 24

25 7th/8th Grade Non-Core Elective Courses (cont.) french horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion (both pitched and non-pitched instruments). Basic fundamentals of music are stressed. This ensemble may prepare and perform concerts each semester, some of which may be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Beginning/Intermediate Band (6th-8th grades - Laird, Tempe Academy, and Ward Traditional Academy), before school at Ward Traditional Academy This is a class for students who have no prior performance experience or may benefit from a review of performance fundamentals on one of the following instruments: flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet/cornet, french horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, percussion (both pitched and nonpitched instruments). Basic fundamentals of music are stressed. This ensemble may prepare and perform concerts each semester, some of which may be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Intermediate Band (Connolly, ASPIRE, Gililland, Tempe Academy) This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing a band instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours, and special concert attire may be worn. Concert Band (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep) This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing a band instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours, and special concert attire will be worn. Jazz Band (Connolly, ASPIRE, and after school at Fees College Prep) This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has more than one year of experience playing a band instrument. Jazz band instruments include alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trumpet, trombone, percussion, piano, and bass guitar. Other instruments may be included upon discussion with the band director. This ensemble will prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Students are required to take an additional band class to enroll in this course. Attendance at concerts is required and special concert attire may be worn. There may also be extra performances throughout the community in addition to school band concerts. Advanced Band (Gililland and Ward Traditional Academy only), before school at Ward Traditional Academy This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing a band instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Special concert attire may be worn. Symphonic Band (Connolly, ASPIRE, and Fees College Prep) This is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has more than one year of experience playing a band instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. Concepts and skills introduced the previous year will be reviewed, expanded, and developed. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 25

26 Honor Band (Gililland only) This is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has more than one year of experience playing a band instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. Concepts and skills introduced the previous year will be reviewed, expanded, and developed. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Orchestra/Strings Courses Beginning/Intermediate Orchestra (Laird, Ward Traditional Academy) This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument: violin, viola, cello, bass. Beginning students may join, though they may need to practice more at home at the beginning of the year. Reading and performance skills are stressed in preparation for more advanced orchestras. This ensemble will prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Intermediate/Advanced Orchestra (Ward Traditional Academy only) Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation/audtion This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Reading and performance skills are stressed in preparation for more advanced orchestras. This ensemble will prepare and perform concerts each quarter most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire will be worn. Chamber Orchestra (ASPIRE, Connolly, and Fees College Prep only) This is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each quarter, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire will be worn. Concert Orchestra (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep) This is a performance-oriented honors class for the middle school student who has more than one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. Concepts and skills introduced in 6th grade will be reviewed, expanded, and developed. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts at least once a quarter, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire will be worn. Bronze Preparatory Orchestra (Gililland only) This is a class for students who have no prior performance experience or may benefit with a review of performance fundamentals on one of the following instruments: violin, viola, cello, string bass. Basic fundamentals of music are stressed. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Chamber Advanced 2nd Violins (Gililland only) This is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Students will study a wide range of musical forms and styles with emphasis placed on improving individual musicianship. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 26

27 7th/8th Grade Non-Core Elective Courses (cont.) Silver Advanced 1st Violins (Gililland only) This is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. At Gililland, there are three advanced classes split between violins and lower strings. Classic Advanced Violas, Cellos, Basses (Gililland only) This is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. At Gililland, there are three advanced classes split between violins and lower strings. Beginning Orchestra (Fees College Prep only) This performance-oriented course is for students who have no prior performance experience or may benefit with a review of performance fundamentals playing an orchestral instrument. Students will study a wide range of musical forms and styles with emphasis placed on improving individual musicianship. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each quarter, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire will be worn. Intermediate Orchestra (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep, Tempe Academy) This is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Students will study a wide range of musical forms and styles with emphasis placed on improving individual musicianship. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each quarter, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire will be worn. Symphony Orchestra (Connolly, ASPIRE) This is a performance-oriented honors class for the middle school student who has more than one year of experience playing an orchestral instrument. Advanced musical concepts and performance techniques will be reinforced through performance. Concepts and skills introduced in 7th grade will be reviewed, expanded, and developed. The students in the course will have a full orchestral experience. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Alternative Music Orchestra (Connolly only) This is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who is very dedicated to learning to play a string instrument. Students are required to take an additional orchestra class to be enrolled in this course. Students will learn various styles of music including jazz, rock, fiddle, and folk music. Students may also learn a secondary string instrument. Students who are interested in learning many styles of music and students who are interested in a possible career in music will enjoy this course. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Electric Orchestra (Gililland only) This is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who is very dedicated to learning to play a string 27

28 instrument. Students are required to take an additional orchestra class to be enrolled in this second orchestra course. Students will learn various styles of music including jazz, fiddle, and mariachi music. Students may also learn a secondary string instrument, and switch instruments each semester. Students who are interested in learning many styles of music and students who are interested in learning to play electric violin, viola, cello, or bass will enjoy this course. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Guitar (Laird only) Students in this class learn to use the guitar as a rhythm, accompaniment, and solo instrument. All students learn to read from the staff as well as how to use chord tablature. Students will perform in a required concert each semester, which may be held outside of regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required. Beginning Guitar (Fees College Prep only) Students in this class learn to use the guitar as a rhythm, accompaniment, and solo instrument. All students learn to read from the staff as well as how to use chord tablature. Students learn to finger pick as well as use a guitar pick. Continuing students continue to read and play guitar music, focusing on playing higher up the neck. Students play a variety of musical styles. Students play both ensemble pieces and solos. and will perform in a required recital at the end of the year. Intermediate Guitar (Fees College Prep only) Continuing students continue to read and play guitar music, focusing on more advanced skills. Students play a variety of musical styles. Students play both ensemble pieces and solos and will perform in a required recital at the end of the year. Advanced Guitar (Fees College Prep only) This course is a performance-oriented class for the middle school student who has at least one year of experience playing guitar. Reading and performance skills are stressed in preparation for more advanced guitar 28 music. This ensemble will prepare and perform concerts each quarter, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required. Choir Courses Choir (Tempe Academy) This is a performance-oriented class with emphasis on vocal music reading, correct vocal production, and performance. This ensemble may prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Intermediate Mixed Choir (Connolly, ASPIRE, and Fees College Prep) This is a performance-oriented class with emphasis on vocal music reading, correct vocal production, and performance. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Grades 6-8 Choir (Ward Traditional Academy,taught before school) This is a performance-oriented class with emphasis on the basic fundamentals of music, vocal music reading, correct vocal production, and performance. These ensembles will prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which may be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Choir/Beginning Piano (Laird only) These are performance-oriented classes with emphasis on the basic fundamentals of music, vocal music reading, correct vocal production, and performance. These ensembles will prepare and perform concerts each semester, most of which may be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Piano skills taught include hand position, chords, and music reading in both bass clef and treble clef. Students perform in required concerts.th This course is designed for eligible students who would benefit from a

29 Women Choir (Connolly, ASPIRE) This is a performance-oriented class for the advanced voice. Emphasis is on perfecting individual vocal skills through ensemble singing, sight singing, and choral performances. This class is for the student with prior musical experience. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Advanced Choir (Gililland only) This is a performance-oriented class for the advanced voice. Emphasis is on perfecting individual vocal skills through ensemble singing, sight singing, and choral performances. This class is for the student with prior musical experience. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. Honor Mixed Choir (Connolly, ASPIRE, Fees College Prep) This is a performance-oriented class for the advanced voice. Emphasis is on perfecting individual vocal skills through ensemble singing, sight reading/sight singing, and choral performances. This class is for the student with prior musical experience. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire is worn. Honor Choir (Gililland) This is a performance-oriented class for the advanced voice. Emphasis is on perfecting individual vocal skills through ensemble singing, sight singing, and choral performances. This class is for the student with prior musical experience. This ensemble will prepare for and perform concerts each semester, most of which will be held outside regular school hours. Attendance at concerts is required, and special concert attire may be worn. 29 Spanish Spanish This course combines immersion learning from the Rosetta Stone Solution Program and pedagogy that includes student and teacher interaction on a regular basis. With Rosetta Stone, students learn key language skills: listening, reading, writing, and speaking, and the instruction can be modified to support individual learning styles. Students progress at their own pace. Spanish/IB Language Acquisition (Tempe Academy) The lifelong skills of listening, speaking, reading, writing, viewing and presenting are developed through language acquisition in all four levels of Spanish. Students are encouraged to gain competence in an additional language with the long-term goal of multilingualism. Through studying other languages, students develop an awareness and understanding of the perspectives of people from other cultures. The knowledge, skills and attitudes that students develop in language acquisition courses provide a meaningful foundation for these further studies, as well as the world of work in global economies and international business. Intervention Courses Intervention courses are semester-long or full-year. Reading Intervention* This course is designed for students who would benefit from additional reading skills development. Small group instruction will focus on individual student needs. Math T2 This course is designed for students who would benefit from additional math skills development. Small group instruction will focus on individual student needs. Native American Literacy Program* (Fees College Prep only) d This course is designed for eligible students who would benefit from additional math skill development. The course uses supplemental math programs using technology, in small groups, with a focus on individual student needs. Culturally relevant materials are utilized to assist students in achieving proficiency. iua