Sandia Preparatory School Middle School Curriculum Guide 2015-2016 Sandia Preparatory School 532 Osuna Road NE Albuquerque, NM 87113 505.338.3000 fax 505.338.3099 www.sandiaprep.org
Our Mission The joy of learning and living is at the center of all we do. Sandia Preparatory School provides remarkable opportunities for intellectual and personal growth within a challenging and balanced program. As an extension of our families, Sandia Prep s diverse community inspires students to find their academic focus, talents and creativity.
Table of Contents Grade 6... 1 Grade 7... 4 Grade 8... 7 Welcome to Sandia Prep! Our Middle School is a lively place where students develop close relationships with teachers and with their fellow students. We believe this web of relationships makes it possible for our students to take risks in a variety of areas. They can learn where their talents lie and develop the skills they need to grow intellectually and academically. We also believe it is important for Middle School students to learn skills in context. In particular, we teach thinking and study skills in each discipline rather than teaching them individually. At Sandia Prep, we want our students to discover the connections between subjects and to use these discoveries to explore and understand the world around them.
Grade 6 Our 6th grade program focuses on fostering a joy in learning and teaches our students the academic skills necessary to succeed at Prep and beyond. We believe it is important for students to have a solid background in reading and writing; therefore, our students meet for an extended class session in language arts. With its focus on culture and geography, our social studies course allows students to explore the connections between their community and the larger world. In science, we provide hands- on activities and stimulate students curiosity as they deepen their scientific literacy. We hone students fundamental skills in our math program and introduce them to more sophisticated mathematical concepts. Our art and media rotation exposes students to a variety of experiences and skills in drama, visual arts, music, modern language and computer skills, and explores the relationship between leadership and environmental sustainability. Our physical education program stresses the importance of lifelong fitness and team skills while developing overall fitness. Art & Media Rotation This rotation gives students the opportunity to discover new interests and skills while exploring a variety of fields. The rotation consists of the following six seven-week classes: Art, Computer, Drama, Foreign Language, Leadership and Music. Through this rotation, we hope students will enjoy learning as they take risks in new disciplines. Art In the 6th grade Art course, we encourage creativity in our students through exploration and invention in the visual arts. The students work in drawing, painting, printmaking, clay, and sculpture. Not only do they learn how to work in many different media, they also learn principles of design and color. Computer/Keyboarding The 6th grade Computer rotation will help students learn how to use the technology available at Sandia Prep. Students will learn more about word processing, multimedia presentations and Internet research, as well as how to connect to the campus file and print services. Time will also be spent daily learning the basics of touch keyboarding. These topics will be covered to help the students get started on a lifetime of using computers. French/Mandarin Chinese/Spanish The French/Mandarin Chinese/Spanish rotation is designed to introduce the student to the three languages and cultures. Students will spend approximately two weeks learning each language. Students will participate in activities such as songs, games, and holiday celebrations. Students may also learn introductory words and phrases, including What is your name?, the alphabet, numbers, days of the week, time and colors. There will be more challenging activities for those students who may previously have had foreign language instruction in French, Mandarin Chinese or Spanish. Introduction to Theater and Dance In Drama, students actively participate in improvisations, theater games, and creative dramatic presentations. Our students also have the opportunity to make their own videos. We work with our students to help them feel comfortable in front of an audience and confident in themselves. Additionally, techniques of ballet and jazz will be covered, and a dance performance will conclude the rotation. Leadership The Leadership class is designed to help create a sense of community and cooperation among the 6th grade students, while encouraging students to develop their own personal power and individuality. Music This course introduces the student to the fundamentals of music literacy and score reading, the essentials of healthy vocal production and the exploration of instrumental music making, as well as gaining an appreciation and understanding of a variety of styles and traditions of music. English English 6 In English 6, students read novels, short stories, poetry and myths. Students are also encouraged and 1
required to read a wide selection of recommended independent reading books in various genres, including fiction, biography, science fiction, and the classics. Additionally, the course includes literary analysis so that students learn to form well supported opinions to literature. Fundamental to English 6 is the teaching of writing, both expository and creative. Prep students write all the time. Skills including grammar, punctuation, spelling, parts of speech, and vocabulary are developed through an emphasis on the writing process. Students write, revise, and rewrite. English 6 introduces students to writing an essay so that they learn to present an idea in a well-developed argument. However, students also write a myriad of creative pieces from short stories, personal narratives, to poetry. History World Cultures & Geography Our primary goal in this class is to encourage students to appreciate and learn about people and places, and to develop their geographic and cultural literacy. Atlases, almanacs, novels, films, computer databases, and the internet are among the resources used as we travel around the world. The classroom and library provide the setting for learning and practicing research and note-taking skills, engaging discussion and critical thinking about local, national, and international topics. Unit projects and assignments foster expression of personal opinions and evidence of learning. Mathematics Our sequential Mathematics program introduces students to the essential mathematical skills necessary for success in academic and real-life environments. We stress problem-solving, deductive reasoning, and abstract thinking. We encourage an appreciation of the beauty of the mathematical process as well as an understanding of the need for proficiency in mathematics in a variety of fields. Please refer to our Sequential Math Program and Flow Chart on the last page of curriculum guide for more information. Foundations of Mathematics In this course, we develop students skills in basic calculations with whole numbers, decimals, and fractions while deepening their understanding of number systems and problem-solving techniques. The curriculum includes a variety of mathematical experiences, including the use of calculators, games, and other manipulatives. Whenever possible, we teach students to apply the mathematic concepts they have studied to real-life situations and examples. We also investigate additional topics, including ratios and percents, measurement, number theory, and statistics and probability. Prerequisite: 5th grade math Sequential Course: 7th grade math or Pre-Algebra. Teacher recommendation is required for both courses. Physical Education 6th Grade Physical Education In 6th grade Physical Education, we teach our students basic movement and sports-related skills, such as ball handling, agility, balance, and hand-eye coordination so they may compete in, understand, and enjoy as many activities as possible. As part of this class, we also focus on lifelong fitness and wellness, and assess physical fitness throughout the course of their physical education. Among the activities we pursue are basketball, field hockey, soccer, volleyball, and track and field events. Science General Science In this course, we foster excitement and curiosity while introducing students to topics in life science, earth science, and physical science through labs and hands-on activities. Teachers encourage active participation and classroom discussions incorporating student interest, while helping foster such skills as observation, communication, classification, inference, hypothesis, interpretation and cooperative learning. We also incorporate overarching skills such as applicable writing and math techniques and organization/study methods. 2
6th Grade Electives Middle School Chorus Middle School Chorus is offered as a full year Ensemble/Study hall elective, with one day of the cycle devoted to Study Hall. This is a nonauditioned ensemble, and all are welcome to join. Emphasis is placed on the development of a healthy vocal technique, including: singing posture, breath management, diction and expression, through singing music and texts representative of a wide diversity of cultures and historical periods. Score study and sight reading are also emphasized. Quarterly concerts are given, and there are numerous opportunities for students to audition for solos, Elementary and Youth All State Chorus, as well as Solo and Ensemble Festival. Any student wishing to participate in All State Chorus, as well as the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Chorus program must be enrolled in a full year school sponsored ensemble. playing experience who are capable of performing Level I band literature. Beginners are encouraged to take private lessons. The band will participate in four concerts during the school year. Middle School Jazz Ensemble This ensemble is open to all instrumentalists (wind, percussion, piano, bass or guitar) who have the ability to perform Level II band literature and have demonstrated the understanding of music fundamentals (reading notes and rhythms) as well as correct, basic playing techniques on his/her instrument (specific requirements available from the instructor). PERMISSION OF INSTRUCTOR IS REQUIRED. The band will participate in four concerts during the school year and may perform at one jazz festival. Beginning Guitar Grades 6, 7, 8 This course is open to any middle school student who wants to begin the study of guitar or to those with less than a year of guitar experience. Students will explore traditional music notation (notes, rhythms, etc.) as well as tablature, chords, ensembles, and a wide variety of musical styles. Students must provide their own guitar (acoustic only). Advanced Guitar Grades 6, 7, 8 This course is open to any middle school student who has had at least one year of guitar study. Activities begun in the Beginning Guitar Class will be continued with more emphasis on music theory, improvisation, and ensemble playing. Students must provide their own instrument (acoustic only). Middle School Strings Grades 6, 7, 8 Orchestral instruction in violin, viola, cello, and bass. Students of all skill levels are welcome, including beginners. Students will develop fundamental individual and ensemble skills as they prepare and perform diverse types of music. Middle School Jazz Band Grades 6, 7, 8 This ensemble is open to all instrumentalists (wind, percussion, piano, bass or guitar) with limited 3
Grade 7 Our 7th grade program is designed to provide students with a multitude of opportunities to explore their relationship with the world around them while, at the same time, developing and refining the skills necessary to understand and negotiate the many worlds they encounter, including both school and community. Art & Media Rotation This rotation helps our 7th grade students discover their own creativity as they learn the skills and techniques of these artistic disciplines. Each of the three courses lasts 12 weeks. Teachers strive to help students express themselves while using the new skills they acquire in Art, Drama, and Photography. Art In this course, students draw, paint, sculpt, make prints, construct collages, and make clay pots. As they use various media, students learn the elements and principles of design by letting their own forms take shape. Drama In drama, we teach our students how to put on a play. From choosing the script to striking the set, students find their creative abilities stimulated, their aesthetic senses heightened, and their technical and dramatic skills refined. Photography This photography class provides a hands-on introduction to the materials and processes of black and white photography. With an emphasis on the proper handling of photosensitive films and papers, 35mm camera use, and working in a darkroom, we create photograms, build a pinhole camera, construct photo-collages, develop black and white film, and make enlargements. With each unit, the students gain a further understanding of the photographic process while being challenged to create unique solutions to photographic problems. English English 7 In English 7, writing and the study of literature are the main objectives, and the course makes use of numerous opportunities to introduce and reinforce English skills. Students study literary genres, including novels, short stories, plays, and poetry. They pay close attention to defining literary terms, such as plot, theme, setting, and characterization. The course encourages outside reading at regular intervals. As students discuss literature and write about it, they study grammar, usage, mechanics, and vocabulary in order to extend their skills in reading and writing. In English 7, students write analytical essays, and they also hone their creative writing skills by crafting pieces with narrative, descriptive, and explanatory passages. History New Mexico History and the West This course promotes a sense of appreciation and understanding for what makes us unique as New Mexicans. We examine the history of exploration, conquest and the merging of vastly different peoples as they create a sense of place in New Mexico. A variety of methods are used throughout the year including lectures, research and discussions using novels, films, and primary as well as secondary sources, in order to create an analytical approach to history. Texts: New Mexico: an Interpretative History Red Sky at Morning Dance Hall of the Dead Rio Grande Stories Various primary documents Films Include: Chisum, Fat Man and Little Boy, & assorted documentaries Mathematics Our sequential Mathematics program introduces students to the essential mathematical skills necessary for success in academic and real-life environments. We stress problem-solving, deductive 4
reasoning, and abstract thinking. We encourage an appreciation of the beauty of the mathematical process as well as an understanding of the need for proficiency in mathematics in a variety of fields. Please refer to our Sequential Math Program and Flow Chart on the last page of curriculum guide for more information. 7th Grade Mathematics The intent of this course is to strengthen the concepts necessary for our students to be successful in future Algebra programs. Emphasis will be placed on the mastery of study skills as well as mathematical topics. Students will be encouraged to develop organizational abilities, presentation of his or her work, and his or her commitment necessary to becoming self-motivated learner. The following mathematical topics will be covered; number sense involving fractions, integers, and decimals, solving equations and inequalities: one, two, and multi steps, factors and exponents, rational numbers and equations, ratios, proportions, and percent. Students will become familiar with a higher level of abstraction in mathematics. The focus will be on using whole numbers, rational numbers, and integers in linear equations and inequalities, geometry, and working with related word problems and graphs. The concepts and procedures of mathematics are investigated and developed through defining and solving problems, reasoning, communication of knowledge and understanding, and the connection of our mathematical ideas to other disciplines with real-life applications. Prerequisite: 6th grade math with teacher recommendation Sequential course: Beginning Algebra Pre-Algebra This course strengthens students mathematical skills through practical problem-solving application and thoroughly develops the abstract foundations necessary for the study of Algebra. We investigate integers, graphs, variables, open equations and inequalities, basic geometry, statistics, word problems, formulas, rational numbers, and measurement. Text: Pre-Algebra, R. Larson, L. Boswell, T. Kanold, and L. Stiff Prerequisite: 6th grade math with teacher recommendation Sequential course: Math 120 - Algebra Modern Languages French 1A French 1A is designed to help the student acquire a beginning level competency in the speaking, reading, and writing of French, and to introduce the student to some aspects of the Francophone world. Vocabulary units may include animals, food, French speaking countries, sports, the classroom, music, and colors. Students will participate in a variety of activities to develop their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Many of the activities will be done in pairs and small groups to encourage conversation and to promote cooperative learning. There are supplemental materials, and manipulatives, activities such as videos, readings, contests and games, and holiday celebrations. Mandarin Chinese 1A This course is designed to help the student acquire a beginning level competency in the speaking, listening, reading, and writing of Mandarin Chinese on class ipads. We incorporate a variety of activities to develop those skills. The themes and subjects covered in this class are relevant to the students daily lives. Students will build their vocabulary and repertoire of sentence patterns. Students will also learn from Chinese cultural lessons ranging from Chinese idioms to the origins of various Chinese characters to typing Chinese on computers. The course is student-centric designed to encourage students to learn Chinese with enthusiasm. Spanish 1A In this course, we present the simple structures of Spanish in common situational contexts. We incorporate a variety of activities to develop the students listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. By the end of this course, the students are able to greet others, introduce themselves and others, describe themselves and others, talk about likes and dislikes, and function with some ease in social interactions related to school, home, food, and family. We explore culture through song, dance, and holidays. Students can look forward to learning authentic children s songs and dancing to popular music. 5
Physical Education 7th Grade Physical Education In this course, we stress improving and refining individual skills and game strategies. We also introduce students to new and more complex skills, thus enabling them to develop confidence and a sense of mastery in the activities we pursue. We continue to assess physical fitness regularly and promote lifelong fitness and wellness. Science Life Science This course is designed to teach students the basic biological concepts and laboratory skills essential to the life sciences. We encourage students to become scientists and naturalists through experimentation using the scientific method, recording field observations, and conducting library research. The course emphasizes units in botany, genetics, ecology, evolution, human biology, and health and wellness. It includes projects that link our students with the community. 7th Grade Electives Middle School Chorus Middle School Chorus is offered as a full year Ensemble/Study hall elective, with one day of the cycle devoted to Study Hall. This is a nonauditioned ensemble, and all are welcome to join. Emphasis is placed on the development of a healthy vocal technique, including: singing posture, breath management, diction and expression, through singing music and texts representative of a wide diversity of cultures and historical periods. Score study and sight reading are also emphasized. Quarterly concerts are given, and there are numerous opportunities for students to audition for solos, Elementary and Youth All State Chorus, as well as Solo and Ensemble Festival. Any student wishing to participate in All State Chorus, as well as the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Chorus program must be enrolled in a full year school sponsored ensemble. Middle School Jazz Band Grades 6, 7, 8 This ensemble is open to all instrumentalists (wind, percussion, piano, bass or guitar) with limited playing experience who are capable of performing Level 1 band literature. Beginners are encouraged to take private lessons. The band will participate in four concerts during the school year. Middle School Jazz Ensemble This ensemble is open to all instrumentalists (wind, percussion, piano, bass or guitar) who have the ability to perform Level 2 band literature and have demonstrated the understanding of music fundamentals (reading notes and rhythms) as well as correct, basic playing techniques on his/her instrument (specific requirements available from the instructor). PERMISSION OF INSTRUCTOR IS REQUIRED. The band will participate in four concerts during the school year and may perform at one jazz festival. Beginning Guitar Grades 6, 7, 8 This course is open to any middle school students who want to begin the study of guitar or to those with less that a year of guitar experience. Students will explore traditional music notation (notes, rhythms, etc.) as well as tablature, chords, ensembles, and a wide variety of musical styles. Students must provide their own guitar (acoustic only). Advanced Guitar Grades 6, 7, 8 This course is open to any middle school student who has had at least one year of guitar study. Activities begun in the Beginning Guitar Class will be continued with more emphasis on music theory, improvisation, and ensemble playing. Students must provide their own instrument (acoustic only). Middle School Strings Grades 6, 7, 8 Orchestral instruction in violin, viola, cello, and bass. Students of all skill levels are welcome, including beginners. Students will develop fundamental individual and ensemble skills as they prepare and perform diverse types of music. 6
Grade 8 The focus of our 8th grade program is two- fold: to enhance and strengthen the skills students have already learned during middle school, and to prepare them for the rigor of high school. Core courses include: History, a study of the U.S. political system; Science, comprising physics, chemistry and fundamental lab skills; Math, which is primarily Algebra 1, the foundation of all high school math courses; English, a combination of classic and contemporary literature; and Modern Language, emphasizing communication and oral proficiency in French, Mandarin Chinese or Spanish. In keeping with Sandia Prep s Five- A philosophy, our Physical Education, Arts and Elective offerings allow students to explore the varied realms of athletics, music and art. English English 8 The primary aim of English 8 is to stimulate a lifelong interest in literature and to introduce additional ways of analyzing poetry and fiction. The course works to aid reading comprehension; to foster an ability to read critically; to introduce students to literary devices and terms; and to promote discussion skills. In order to introduce our students to a broad range of perspectives, the course requires students to read novels, plays, short stories and poetry from a diverse group of authors. Students discuss and analyze the works in writing assignments. Formal, personal, and creative writing projects require students to transform text using their comprehension and imagination. History American Government This course traces the origins and foundations of American constitutional government from both philosophical and historical perspectives. We will look at the Constitution and Amendments in detail and examine their historical foundations, as well as current applications. Special attention is paid to the Bill of Rights as it applies to current and historical issues, cases, and controversies. Discussion, writing, debate, presentation, and role-playing help us synthesize information from primary and secondary sources, including text, specialty literature, and novels, and to prepare students for further historical and social inquiry. Mathematics Our sequential Mathematics program introduces students to the essential mathematical skills necessary for success in academic and real-life environments. We stress problem-solving, deductive reasoning, and abstract thinking. We encourage an appreciation of the beauty of the mathematical process as well as an understanding of the need for proficiency in mathematics in a variety of fields. Please refer to our Sequential Math Program and Flow Chart on the last page of curriculum guide for more information. Beginning Algebra This is the first year of a two-year long Algebra 120 course (Algebra 110 being the second year course). It is designed for 8th grade students who would benefit from Algebra 120 being covered over two years instead of one, so that they might fully master the concepts needed for higher mathematics. Major topics include order of operations, algebraic equations, linear equations, inequalities, and absolute values. Text: Algebra I Concepts & Skills, Vol. 2, R. Larson, L. Boswell, T. Kanold, and L. Stiff Prerequisite: 7th grade math Sequential course: Math 110 - Algebra Math 120 - Algebra This course develops facility in the use of mathematical concepts and provides a thorough foundation in basic Algebra essential to the study of advanced mathematics. Topics covered include (but are not limited to): operations involving integers, fractions, and polynomials; solving equations and inequalities; use of formulas; factoring polynomials; graphing linear equations; rational expressions and equations; quadratic equations; linear systems; word problems; and radical expressions and equations. Text: Algebra I, R. Larson, L. Boswell, T. Kanold, and L. Stiff Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra Sequential course: Math 220 - Algebra 7
Modern Languages French 1B French 1B emphasizes communication in everyday situations and interpersonal relationships in meaningful context using the natural approach. These may include being at home and in the city, going to Paris, shopping, going to school, relaxing on weekends, and dining. Students participate in a variety of activities designed to develop their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Many of the activities will be done in pairs and small groups to encourage conversation and to promote cooperative learning. Students will also create original dialogues to simulate situations that they might encounter in a French-speaking country. There are supplemental materials and activities such as videos, readings, games, and holiday celebrations. Mandarin Chinese 1B This course builds upon materials from Chinese 1A. Students will build upon their Mandarin Chinese language skills, while continuing learning relevant Chinese cultural lessons such as idioms, origins of Chinese characters, and typing Chinese characters on class ipads. Lessons may include vocabulary describing being at home and in school, going shopping, getting directions, and talking about weather and sports. There are supplemental materials that may include activities such as reading, games, a field trip to a local Asian market, holiday celebrations and pen-pal communications. Students collaborate on activities designed to develop their speaking, listening, reading, and writing skills. Many activities will be done in pairs and small groups to promote cooperative learning and to encourage conversations. Students gradually move to a class, largely conducted in Chinese, based on the Natural Method. consolidate their understanding of introductory vocabulary and grammar introduced in Spanish 1A. This includes greetings, describing oneself and others, expressing likes and dislikes, and talking about school, food, household items, chores, shopping, and clothing. Students then learn to describe a house, give directions and commands through a variety of communicative activities such as presenting their own family tree and making a poster of their emotions, and planning a party. Throughout the year, students are exposed to culture through a variety of media including music and video. At the end of the year, students will be able to express themselves efficiently in conversation and in basic writing exercises. Physical Education 8th Grade Physical Education In this course, we continue to focus on improving and refining individual skills and game strategies, while introducing students to nontraditional team sports, such as team handball, korfball, and Ultimate Frisbee. We continue to assess physical fitness regularly and promote lifelong fitness and wellness. Science Physical Science This course is an introduction to both chemistry and physics. Topics of study include the model of the atom, the structure and use of the periodic table, chemical bonding, chemical reactions, radioactivity, mechanical forces, different forms and sources of energy, and the wave behavior of sound and light. The course emphasizes hands-on labs and activities, problem-solving skills, and projects that are designed to help students connect the physical sciences to other academic areas and to current events. Spanish 1B Spanish 1B is conducted almost entirely in Spanish, using the natural approach. We emphasize spoken communication and oral proficiency, while at the same time strengthening reading and writing skills. Students review and 8
8th Grade Electives Quarter Long Electives: Students will choose one course from each of three departments (Digital Media & Communications, Performing Arts and Visual Arts) and one from the list at the end of this section. Digital Media & Communications Digital Journalism Students will gain real-life skills in digital journalism as they learn how to capture a moment, interview a subject, and create a new-media product. They will also apply these journalistic skills, designing their own yearbook spreads and producing short digital news segments. Software used in the class includes the industry-standard Adobe Creative Suite: PhotoShop, InDesign and Premiere Pro. Computer Graphics Students will create a variety of two- and threedimensional graphic images using PhotoShop, Illustrator and Bryce software. Students will learn how to use a digital camera and scanner to produce high resolution images that will be combined and manipulated to make compelling digital art. Presentations & Keyboarding: Daily practice and training will help students improve their touch-typing speed and accuracy. At the same time, students will learn to make an impressive presentation, speak confidently in front of an audience and choose appropriate digital resources to deliver their messages. This course will be offered only during the first quarter and is strongly recommended for students in need of extra typing training. Web Page Design Using Adobe Dreamweaver, students will create websites, based on their own interests, that entertain, inform and educate. Students will explore web programming using basic HTML, create code to add graphics, links, tables and more to their pages, and explore CSS to format web pages consistently and quickly. Robotics Students will learn robotics concepts by building robots with LEGO EV3 hardware and programming with LEGO Mindstorm software. They will work in teams to design, build, program and document their progress. Students robots will accomplish specific tasks and compete in the FIRST LEGO League (FLL) competition in December. This course will be offered only in the first and second quarters. Computer Programming Students will gain skills in a variety of software applications, including Alice Programming (developed at Carnegie Mellon) and Scratch Programming (developed at MIT). Students will explore programming concepts and develop games, digital stories and other structures. All software in this course is free to download and can be used on multiple computer platforms, so students can continue to explore and learn outside of class. Performing Arts Must Have Music In this quarter long course you will have an opportunity to develop and showcase your musical talents and skills. Have you ever wanted to explore the piano? In less than two weeks time you will be able to play some simple pieces with both hands. Do you wonder what it takes to be able to sing and play and instrument simultaneously? You will learn to accompany yourself on the baritone ukulele as you sing classic American songs, and then you and a partner will compose an original ukulele song together. Other projects include brushing up on your knowledge of the fundamentals of music as well as giving an in class presentation on a popular artist or group of your choice. This fun and fast paced course will undoubtedly help you to develop both the skill and confidence you seek to become one of Prep s most promising young musicians! Broadway Song and Dance This is a performance based class, in which, at the end of the quarter, the students will present a 10-15 minute showcase which will include selections from the greatest hits of Broadway. This is largely a student generated class, in that the students 9
will help select the theme and repertoire of the showcase, as well as develop a narrative storyline through script writing and character development. Your creativity knows no bounds in this truly collaborative class! Pop/Rock Song and Dance This is a performance based class, in which, at the end of the quarter, the students will present a 10-15 minute showcase which will include selections from music in the pop/rock genre. This is largely a student generated class, in that the students will help select the theme and repertoire of the showcase, as well as develop a narrative storyline through script writing and character development. Your creativity no bounds in this truly collaborative class! Visual Arts Drawing In this 9 week course, students will experiment with a range of drawing materials including pencil, pen and ink, colored pencil, charcoal and pastel. Students will create tiny works as well as large ones, working with still life set ups and lights as well as from the imagination. Skill building and creative exploration are emphasized in this class. Painting In this 9 week course, students will explore new techniques using a variety of painting materials from ink and watercolor to acrylic and batik. Students will try their hand at traditional subjects including landscape, still life and portraits as well as abstract work based on good design principles. Color, composition and craftsmanship are the focuses of this class. Printmaking In this 9 week course, students will learn several experimental methods of printmaking, from stamping, collographs (textured collages painted and run through the printing press) linoleum block prints and rust prints from metal. This class is a great choice for students who enjoy pattern, texture and design and who like to work with their hands and an interesting range of tools and materials. Sculpting In this 9 week course, students go 3-D with a range of materials from foam core, cardboard, wire, wood and stone. We will make giant insects as well as work based on the human form. We will also use rasps to carve small animal sculptures (fetishes) out of native New Mexican stone, then decorate these with feathers and beads. The final quarter long elective course can be selected from the following list: Digital Journalism Computer Graphics Presentations & Keyboarding: Web Page Design Robotics Computer Programming Must Have Music Broadway Song and Dance Pop/Rock Song and Dance Drawing Painting Printmaking Sculpting Study Hall - Q1 Study Hall - Q2 Study Hall - Q3 Study Hall - Q4 Year Long Electives: Students will choose one course from the following for his/her year-long elective. Sundevil Singers The Sundevil Singers is a non-auditioned ensemble which is open to anyone who enjoys singing and wishes to further his or her vocal development and skills. Advanced score study will be explored through a variety of multicultural music, reflecting a diversity of historical time periods, contexts, and traditions. As well, the advancement of a healthy vocal technique, including: singing posture, breath management, diction, and expression will be developed. Numerous performance opportunities are offered, including: quarterly concerts, Grandparents Day, Meet Prep, and the National Honor Society Induction. There 10
are also numerous opportunities for solos and small ensemble work, Solo and Ensemble Festival, as well as opportunities to audition for All State Chorus. Any student who wishes to audition or participate in All State Chorus or the Albuquerque Youth Symphony Chorus must be enrolled in a full year school sponsored ensemble. In coming 8th Grade students must have at least one year of choral ensemble study at the Middle School level or prior approval of the instructor. Middle School Jazz Band Grades 6, 7, 8 This ensemble is open to all instrumentalists (wind, percussion, piano, bass or guitar) with limited playing experience who are capable of performing Level I band literature. Beginners are encouraged to take private lessons. The band will participate in four concerts during the school year. Middle School Jazz Ensemble This ensemble is open to all instrumentalists (wind, percussion, piano, bass or guitar) who have the ability to perform Level 2 band literature and have demonstrated the understanding of music fundamentals (reading notes and rhythms) as well as correct, basic playing techniques on his/her instrument (specific requirements available from the instructor). PERMISSION OF INSTRUCTOR IS REQUIRED. The band will participate in four concerts during the school year and may perform at one jazz festival. Beginning Guitar This course is open to any middle school student who wants to begin the study of guitar or to those with less than a year of guitar experience. Students will explore traditional music notation (notes, rhythms, etc.) as well as tablature, chords, ensembles, and a wide variety of musical styles. Students must provide their own guitar (acoustic only). Intermediate Guitar This course is open to any middle school student who has had at least one year of guitar study. Activities begun in the Beginning Guitar Class will be continued with more emphasis on music theory, improvisation, and ensemble playing. Students must provide their own instrument (acoustic only). Advanced Guitar This course is open to any middle school student who has had at least two years of guitar study; however, students with less experience may be admitted with the permission of the instructor. Students will continue to study the techniques learned in the previous two years with continued emphasis on advanced music theory, creative improvisation, and more intricate ensemble playing. Students must furnish their own instrument (acoustic only). Middle School String Ensemble Orchestral instruction in violin, viola, cello, and bass. Students of all skill levels are welcome, including beginners. Students will develop fundamental individual and ensemble skills as they prepare and perform diverse types of music. 8th Grade theater Elective This one year course provides a solid introduction into the performing arts, focusing primarily on acting and touching base on theatrical production. Included in the curriculum are workshop segments covering auditioning, character development, vocal work, monologues, scenes, improvisation, musical theater history and performance (including singing and dancing.) We ll also explore the technical tools that enhance an actor s process. This will include make-up design, costuming, prop manipulation and construction, and a general overview of all the technical elements that are needed to produce a show. Students will have multiple opportunities to perform individually as well as with other classmates. Ideally this course will provide a solid foundation of information that will leave the student with a better understanding of our theatrical process, prepare them for upper school classes and productions, develop confidence within themselves when it comes to public presentation, pique the student s interest in multiple areas of the performing arts and of course have fun! 11
Mathematics - Sequential Program and Flow Chart Our sequential Mathematics program introduces students to the essential mathematical skills necessary for success in academic and real-life environments. We stress problem-solving, deductive reasoning, and abstract thinking. We encourage an appreciation of the beauty of the mathematical process as well as an understanding of the need for proficiency in mathematics in a variety of fields. Requirements for moving into sequential courses of mathematical studies: 1) Demonstrating course mastery: Our sequential Mathematics program introduces students to the essential mathematical skills necessary for success in academic and real-life environments. We stress problem-solving, deductive reasoning, and abstract thinking. We encourage an appreciation of the beauty of the mathematical process as well as an understanding of the need for proficiency in mathematics in a variety of fields. 2) Not demonstrating course mastery: Students will be placed in this category if they have achieved a final grade in the "D" range for any semester in any given math course. This standing will not allow students to move into the listed sequential course. However, they will receive a ½ credit for each semester that they are in this category. If a student does not demonstrate course mastery for the first semester, but does for their second semester, they will receive a full credit for the course. They will also be allowed to move into the listed sequential course. 3) Failing to master course content: Students will be placed in this category if they have achieved an "F" grade for a semester final grade. They will not receive a credit for the semester. They also will not be allowed to move into the listed sequential course. Note: Any student placed into Categories 2 or 3 must talk to the Mathematics Chair before signing up for a future mathematics course.