MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE … Announcements/CMS 18-19...Challenge course placement...

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MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE 2018-2019 CRESTVIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL 16025 Clayton Road in Ellisville, Missouri 63011 Phone: (636) 891-6950 Fax: (636) 207-2529 The Rockwood Middle School Course Description Guide is now online: http://rsdmo.org/guidanceandcounseling/mscourses

Transcript of MIDDLE SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE … Announcements/CMS 18-19...Challenge course placement...

MIDDLE SCHOOL

COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE

2018-2019

CRESTVIEW MIDDLE SCHOOL16025 Clayton Road in Ellisville, Missouri 63011

Phone: (636) 891-6950 Fax: (636) 207-2529

The Rockwood Middle School Course Description Guide is now online: http://rsdmo.org/guidanceandcounseling/mscourses

Gary Jansen, Principal

Alexandra Krinski, Assistant Principal

Kelly Sollberger, Assistant Principal

Joshua Walz, Assistant Principal

Dear Crestview Students and Parents:

Welcome to Crestview Middle School as we begin the registration process for the upcoming 2018-2019

school year. In this Course Description Guide, you’ll find information that will help you make decisions

about your course selections. Please take the opportunity to read this information and discuss your

choices with your teachers, guidance counselor and family.

Our mission is to do whatever it takes to ensure every student realizes their potential. We are committed

to improving each student’s academic performance. We offer a balanced program of required, elective

and exploratory courses that will encourage our students’ growth and prepare them for their academic

career as they move forward with their Rockwood education.

Education and learning extends beyond the school day, so please expect to have some homework each

evening. In addition, we encourage our students to be involved in activities that will make them feel a

sense of belonging as part of our school community. Please take a moment to read the Challenge Course

section in this guide to ensure you are aware of course-level comparisons for the coming school year.

We are proud of our Crestview traditions and our reputation for excellence in education. Be assured that

we will continue our commitment of excellence that prepares our students for college, career and

citizenship. We sincerely appreciate the opportunity to educate students and serve our families.

Sincerely,

Gary Jansen Principal

________TABLE OF CONTENTS________

News from our School Counselors ............................................................................... page 5

Rockwood School District Curriculum ......................................................................... page 6

Is a Rockwood Challenge Course Right For Me? ......................................................... page 7 Earning High School Credit in Middle School........................................................... page 9 Comparison Charts ................................................................................................ page 10

Sixth-Grade Courses .................................................................................................. page 17 Curriculum ............................................................................................................. page 18 Electives Programs ................................................................................................ page 22 Exploratory Programs ........................................................................................... page 24

Seventh-Grade Courses ............................................................................................. page 26 Curriculum .............................................................................................................. page 27 Electives Programs ................................................................................................. page 31 Exploratory Programs ........................................................................................... page 34

Eighth-Grade Courses ................................................................................................ page 36 Curriculum .............................................................................................................. page 37 Electives Programs ................................................................................................. page 42 Exploratory Programs ........................................................................................... page 45

Student Services and Programs English for Speakers of Other Languages ............................................................... page 47 Special Education .................................................................................................. page 48

Frequently Asked Questions ...................................................................................... page 49

Preparing for High School, College and Career Graduation Requirements .................................................................................... page 51 Course Pathways ................................................................................................... page 52 Companion Guide ................................................................................................. page 67

Registration Forms Guidelines for Online Registration ....................................................................... page 68 Concert Performance Expectations: Elective Music Courses ............................... page 69

________ Registration News from our School Counselors ________

It’s time to enroll your student into middle school classes for the 2018-2019 school year.

Currently, we are meeting with our students to provide them with all the information and tools they need to enroll. Our focus is helping students develop a personal plan of study to guide them toward their academic goals.

Please mark your calendar for online registration deadlines. Families need to register for middle school courses online using the Infinite Campus Parent Portal.

Registration opens on Friday, January 19 at 7:00 A.M.

Registration closes on Monday, January 29 at 4:00 P.M.

Please note the Student Online Registration Instructions for Infinite Campus Guide that provides directions to successfully enroll. It’s important to note that on January 29 at 4 p.m., the Infinite Campus registration program will be disabled, so we’ll need your cooperation in meeting this important deadline. You are always welcome to contact our office with any questions or concerns as we move forward with the registration process.

CMS School Counselors for 2018-2019 school year:

Ms. Lisa Stoecker Ms. Diana Albrecht School Counselor for 7th Grade Registrar Phone: (636) 891-6976 Phone: (636) 891-6970 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

Ms. Alison Carroll/Mr. David Tabscott Ms. Erin Hotz School Counselor for 8th Grade Social Worker Phone: (636) 891-6977 Phone: (636) 891-6979 Email: [email protected] Email: [email protected]

[email protected]

Ms. Marcy Morris School Counselor for 6th Grade Phone: (636)891-6978 Email: [email protected]

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________ROCKWOOD SCHOOL DISTRICT: MIDDLE SCHOOL CURRICULUM________

Our curriculum is the foundation of learning in the classroom. The Rockwood Board of Education formally adopts all written curricula for all subject areas and all individual courses taught in the Rockwood School District. Curriculum committees consisting of teachers, parents, administrators, and students follow a formal curriculum development process to determine the standards, skills, and content to be mastered at each grade level and in each course. Through this formal process, curriculum in each content area has been also revised and aligned to the state and national standards. The curriculum committees conduct formal reviews of current literature and current teaching and learning practices in the content area; analyze survey feedback from parents, students, and staff; and examine achievement data for the particular content area. Also involved in this comprehensive process is securing input and feedback from college/university staff and our community. For more information about Rockwood curriculum, visit our website: https://curriculum.rsdmo.org/Pages/default.aspx.

NONDISCRIMINATION STATEMENT The Rockwood School District prohibits and will not tolerate discrimination against or harassment of any student, employee or applicant for employment because of race, color, national origin, religion, sex, age, genetic information, marital status, disability, handicapping conditions, or any other factor that is not a proper legal basis for an employment decision. This policy will prevail in all matters concerning the staff, the students, the public, the educational programs and services of the district, and individuals with whom the Board does business. Inquiries by students, parents, or employees regarding Rockwood School District’s nondiscrimination policies should be directed to the compliance coordinators: Dr. Katie Reboulet, Compliance Coordinator for Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 as amended, the Missouri Human Rights Act, the Age Discrimination in Employment Act, the Americans with Disabilities Act, the Genetic Information Nondiscrimination Act and P.L. 92-318, Education Amendments of 1972, Title IX (race, color, national origin, religion, marital status, sex, age, disability for employees discrimination issues). Rockwood Administrative Center - 111 East North Street - Eureka, Missouri 63025 - 636.733.2035 Dr. Jane Brown, Compliance Coordinator for P.L. 93-112, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 and P.L. 94-142, Education for all Disabled Children Act (disability and handicapping conditions (for students) discrimination issues). Early Childhood Center at Clarkson Valley, 2730 Valley Road, Chesterfield, MO 63005-6920 - 636.891.6212

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________Is a Rockwood Challenge course right for me?________

Middle school is the perfect time to start exploring your interests and see how far you can push yourself

academically. Taking academic risks in middle school allows you to learn new things and gain new experiences that

will help you later in life. Think about the questions below to help you decide whether choosing a challenge course is

the best option for you.

•Challenge students spend a great deal of time learning about the content, so it is important to have a strong interest in the subject area.

•Challenge students are expected to be self-starters and hard workers.

•Challenge students show strong, consistent effort in their school work.

Am I ready for the challenge?

•Challenge courses are demanding of time. Complex reading and writing assignments are often assigned to students. In-depth research and projects are a regular part of the course.

•Students who are involved in many extracurricular activities or have many responsibilities outside of school should consider the demands on their time when choosing a challenge course.

Do I have the time to commit

to challenge courses?

•Challenge courses move at a fast pace, and students are expected to pick-up new material at a fairly fast rate.

•Students who need more time to process new learning may want to consider whether enrollment in a challenge course is right for them.

What type of learner am I?

•Your teacher knows you and how you learn. He/she can help you decide whether, as a learner, you display the skills that typically lead to success in a challenge class: work ethic, work completion, desire to learn new things, and responsibility.

Would my current teacher

recommend that I take challenge courses?

•If your grades have been consistently good in the subject area, a challenge course might be a good option for you.

•Students with lower grade averages in a content area may want to consider whether enrollment in a challenge course is right for them.

What are my grades like in the subject

areas where I am considering

challenge?

•Challenge courses let you start learning advanced study skills, thinking skills, and content.

•Grades are only one way to look at your achievement. The number of challenging courses you take also tells a story about your achievement and learning.

•Students who take a challenge course show a willingness to take on academic challenges regardless of the potential impact on their grade.

Am I choosing challenge for

the right reasons?

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________ MIDDLE SCHOOL CHALLENGE PROGRAM PLACEMENT CRITERIA________

The middle school challenge course curriculum provides advanced academic rigor beyond grade-level expectations. The challenge level curriculum is designed to meet the needs of the qualified student, who will study intensified, compacted and/or accelerated content in conjunction with individual and collaborative projects to enhance inquiry, research, analysis, synthesis, production and communication.

WHEN IS PLACEMENT IN CHALLENGE COURSES DETERMINED?

Challenge course placement recommendation is determined every Spring and is based on Rockwood’s Student Academic Acceleration Policy 2535, adopted by the Board of Education on August 3, 2000.

HOW IS PLACEMENT IN CHALLENGE COURSES DETERMINED?

Challenge course placement recommendations are determined course by course for each student in the three core subject areas: language arts, science, and social studies. Academic measures, student success indicators and teacher recommendations are considered when placement is determined. Students and parents can determine eligibility by reviewing the Qualities and Skills for Success indicators below. (NOTE: Eligibility for mathematics acceleration is determined through preview/end-of-course exams given in the spring of each year. Placement for accelerated math is NOT based upon the following challenge criteria.) For each content area, your child has the option of enrolling in the regular grade-level course or may enroll in the challenge level course, when supported by academic evidence, including qualities and skills for success, as shown below. WHAT ARE THE SUCCESS INDICATORS FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL CHALLENGE LEVEL COURSES?

A student in a challenge-level course will be most successful when he/she meets the following: • The student is able to read independently above grade level. • The student is able to write independently above grade level. • The student is able to reason abstractly and apply math concepts above grade level. (Science Challenge only) • The student has an interest in or aptitude for the selected content knowledge. • The student has an interest in or aptitude for process skills including research, analysis, inquiry and problem solving. • The student actively engages in learning by taking initiative to expand and explore learning. • The student consistently completes class assignments and homework on time and with attention to quality. • The student is a consistently responsible member of the learning environment who cooperates effectively and communicates positively. IF THE STUDENT IS PRESENTLY PARTICIPATING IN CHALLENGE COURSES, HOW WILL ELIGIBILITY BE DETERMINED FOR THE COMING YEAR? Students who participated in a subject-area challenge course during the previous school year and scored a C- or better in that challenge course second semester are automatically scheduled for the same subject area challenge course during the next school year. ONCE A STUDENT ENTERS A CHALLENGE COURSE, WHAT GRADE MUST BE MAINTAINED?

Students who participate in a subject-area challenge course during the current school year must maintain a C- or better first semester in order to continue in the challenge course for second semester*. The C- or better standing is measured by performance on challenge level course assessments, which are aligned to the rigorous, above grade-level curriculum. Students can continue in the same subject challenge course the next year, if they have a second semester grade of C- or better.

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EARNING HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT IN MIDDLE SCHOOL

The Department of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) has approved changes for Sixth grade, Seventh grade

and Eighth grade students who complete high school level courses. Students’ high school transcripts will allow the

appropriate units of credit recorded on the transcript, with the notation that these courses have been successfully

completed prior to Ninth Grade.

What this allows:

High school credit – Middle school students may receive high school credit for high school level courses in

World Language and Math taken in middle school.

Transcripted grades – The high school course will be included on the student’s transcript with a letter grade.

This will happen after the successful completion of the subsequent course in the subject area in high school.

Graduation requirements – The courses will meet the subject-area requirements toward high school graduation. What this does not allow:

GPA – The letter grade will not count in the student’s grade point average in high school.

Special considerations for transfers:

If a student transfers out of Rockwood before successful completion of the subsequent high school course, the credit will not be included on the high school transcript. The receiving school will determine whether the high school credit is awarded for the middle school course completion. A student transferring into a Rockwood School that has not had high school credit transcripted for a high school World Language or Math course taken at the middle school level, will only receive credit based on successful completion of the subsequent course in the subject area completed during high school. Special considerations for student-athletes: In order to be eligible for high school activities, the Missouri State High

School Activities Association (MSSHA), requires students in the 9th-12th grades to pass three (3.0) units of credit the

previous semester and be enrolled in three (3.0) units of credit for the current semester. It is important parents and

students understand this MSSHA requirement if the student chooses to participate in high school activities.

Rockwood courses available for high school credit Middle school students who choose the high school level courses will receive acceleration credit that can be counted toward meeting the subject-area requirements for graduation. It is important to note the following:

• Middle school students who take courses for high school credit, and then continue on the curricular track for World Language & Math in high school, will not receive credit for the middle school course if they retake these same courses in high school.

• Final exams - Middle school students will take the end-of-course final exam in the courses for which they

receive high school credit. This exam will be figured into their final grade. Students taking Algebra 1 will take the state required Algebra 1 End-Of-Course exam. Students must be proficient on this exam to be eligible for the A+ program.

• For more information, contact your professional school counselor regarding the courses available for high

school credit.

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________ COURSE COMPARISONS________

LANGUAGE ARTS GRADE-LEVEL COURSE CHALLENGE COURSE

Content Knowledge and Skills

Grade-level and Challenge courses both exceed the grade-level

requirements of the State of Missouri.

Students will develop reading, writing, information literacy, and listening and speaking skills.

Students will use metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more complex material, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry and drama.

Students will use the writing process and Six-Traits of Quality Writing to create a variety of types of writing.

Vocabulary instruction and word awareness will be embedded in the reading and writing instruction.

Students will develop media literacy skills, use the research process and evaluate both the relevance and reliability of information gathered.

Students will be prepared to meet and exceed the course requirements of Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Students will develop reading, writing, information literacy, and listening and speaking skills.

Students will use metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more complex material, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry and drama.

Students will use the writing process and Six-Traits of Quality Writing to create a variety of types of writing. Expectations for writing assignments may increase in frequency or length in a challenge course.

Vocabulary instruction and word awareness will be embedded in the reading and writing instruction.

Students will develop media literacy skills, use the research process and evaluate both the relevance and reliability of information gathered.

Students will be prepared to meet and exceed the course requirements of Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Pace

The speed or rate at which progress is made

through content or a lesson.

Challenge is a faster pace.

Content is paced to allow for mastery of grade-level curriculum.

Content is compacted for a faster pace to allow for more intensive and in-depth study of the curriculum.

Complexity and Difficulty

Complexity is the thought processes the brain uses to deal with information.

Difficulty is the effort the learner must expend to accomplish the learning

objective.

Challenge is more complex and can be more difficult. Students should be willing to commit to

the increased expectations of the

course.

Grade-level reading and writing assignments.

Students will develop critical process skills for assessing issues, problem solving, and decision making.

Building knowledge in the disciplines through informational and literary text.

Interacting with increasingly complex text.

Being able to support answers with specific text-based details.

Writing from sources--some teacher provided, and some self-selected.

Using appropriate academic vocabulary.

Intensive reading and writing assignments.

Students will apply critical process skills as they assess issues, solve problems, and make decisions.

In-Depth individual and collaborative projects utilizing intensive research, inquiry, analysis, and synthesis.

Analyzing knowledge in the disciplines through informational and literary text.

Interacting with increasingly complex text.

Being able to support answers with specific text-based details and draw inferences and conclusions.

Writing from sources and evaluating the effectiveness/appropriateness of the sources.

Using appropriate academic vocabulary.

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WORLD HISTORY 6th GRADE

GRADE-LEVEL COURSE CHALLENGE COURSE

Content Knowledge and Skills

Grade-level and Challenge courses both exceed the grade-level requirements of the State of Missouri.

Students will explore the ancient world from Pre-history through the Middle Ages.

Students will analyze significant historical developments and the connection to our world, the relationship between humans and their environment, the development of government systems, and the effect of trade and economic decisions on societies.

Students will explore the ancient world from Pre-history through the Middle Ages.

Students will analyze significant historical developments and the connection to our world, the relationship between humans and their environment, the development of government systems, and the effect of trade and economic

decisions on societies.

Pace The speed or rate at which progress is made through

content or a lesson.

Challenge is a faster pace.

Content is paced to allow for mastery of grade-level curriculum.

Content is compacted for a faster pace to allow for more intensive and in-depth study of the curriculum.

Complexity and Difficulty

Complexity is the thought processes the brain uses to

deal with information.

Difficulty is the effort the learner must expend to accomplish the learning

objective.

Challenge is more complex and can be more difficult. Students should be willing to commit to the increased expectations of the course.

Students will develop and apply social science inquiry skills including questioning, gathering and evaluating evidence, developing claims and constructing arguments and explanations.

Students will develop social science inquiry skills in order to understand how to evaluate issues, solve problems, make decisions, and take informed action.

Students will read and use a variety of text to develop key social studies content knowledge.

Students will develop skills for social studies writing to support social studies inquiry.

Students will develop and independently apply social science inquiry skills including questioning, gathering and evaluating evidence, developing claims, and constructing and critiquing arguments and explanations.

Students will develop and apply social science inquiry skills to analyze issues, evaluate problems and solutions, critique decision-making, and justify taking informed action.

Students will utilize multiple, complex text to promote in-depth understanding of social studies content knowledge.

Students will develop skills for complex writings to support social studies inquiry.

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WORLD GEOGRAPHY 7th GRADE

GRADE-LEVEL COURSE CHALLENGE COURSE

Content Knowledge and Skills

Grade-level and Challenge courses both exceed the grade-level requirements of the State of Missouri.

Students will explore the human and physical characteristics of the world, with emphasis on the relationships between humans and their world, and the impact on the establishment and development of societies.

Students will investigate the world by region including North America, Latin/South America, Southwest Asia, Africa, Asia and Europe and will develop an understanding of the concepts of the governments, climate, economics, and cultures of each region.

Students will explore the human and physical characteristics of the world, with emphasis on the relationships between humans and their world, and the impact on the establishment and development of societies.

Students will investigate the world by region including North America, Latin/South America, Southwest Asia, Africa, Asia and Europe and will develop an understanding of the concepts of the governments, climate, economics, and cultures of each region.

Pace: The speed or rate at which progress is made through

content or a lesson. Challenge is a faster pace.

Content is paced to allow for mastery of grade-level curriculum.

Content is compacted for a faster pace to allow for more intensive and in-depth study of the curriculum.

Complexity and Difficulty:

Complexity is the thought processes the brain uses to

deal with information.

Difficulty is the effort the learner must expend to accomplish the learning

objective. Challenge is more complex and can be more difficult. Students should be willing to commit to the increased expectations of the course.

Students will use geographic and economic research tools to identify patterns and trends.

Students will develop and apply social science inquiry skills including questioning, gathering and evaluating evidence, developing claims and constructing arguments and explanations.

Students will develop social studies process skills in order to understand how to evaluate issues, solve problems, make decisions, and take informed action.

Students will utilize a variety of readings to promote the development of key social studies content knowledge.

Students will develop skills for social studies writing to support social studies inquiry.

Students will use geographic and economic research tools to analyze complex geographic and economic issues and propose solutions.

Students will develop, learn to independently apply and evaluate social science inquiry skills including questioning, gathering and evaluating evidence, developing claims, and constructing and critiquing arguments and explanations.

Students will develop and independently apply social studies process skills in order to analyze and assess issues, evaluate problems and solutions, critique decision-making, and justify informed action.

Students will utilize multiple, complex text and source materials to promote in-depth understanding of social studies content knowledge.

Students will develop skills for complex social studies writing to support social studies inquiry.

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UNITED STATES HISTORY 8th GRADE

GRADE-LEVEL COURSE CHALLENGE COURSE

Content Knowledge and Skills

Grade-level and Challenge courses both exceed the

grade-level requirements of the State of Missouri.

Students will examine the history of the United States from exploration through reconstruction, and understand the relationship between our nation’s past and important contemporary issues.

Students will analyze the development of the government, economics and culture of the United States, along with understanding the relationship between geography and growth of our nation.

Students will examine the history of the United States from exploration through reconstruction, and understand the relationship between our nation’s past and important contemporary issues.

Students will analyze the development of the government, economics and culture of the United States, along with understanding the relationship between geography and growth of our nation.

Pace The speed or rate at which progress is made through

content or a lesson.

Challenge is a faster pace.

Content is paced to allow for mastery of grade-level curriculum.

Content is compacted to allow for more intensive and in-depth study of the curriculum.

Complexity and Difficulty Complexity is the thought

processes the brain uses to deal with information.

Difficulty is the effort the learner must expend to accomplish the learning

objective.

Challenge is more complex and can be more difficult.

Students should be willing to commit to the increased

expectations of the course.

Students will participate in democratic decision-making, and engage in problem solving.

Students will develop and apply social science inquiry skills of questioning, gathering and evaluating evidence, developing claims and constructing arguments and explanations

Students will develop and apply social science process skills in order to understand how to assess issues, solve problems, make decisions, and take informed action.

Students will utilize a variety of primary and secondary readings and sources to promote the development of key social studies content knowledge.

Students will develop social studies writing skills to support communication of the results of social science inquiry.

Students will participate in democratic decision-making, engage in problem solving and evaluating outcomes.

Students will develop and apply social science inquiry skills with an intensive emphasis on questioning, gathering and evaluating evidence, developing claims and constructing arguments and explanations both independently and in collaboration with others.

Students will develop and independently apply social studies process skills in order to analyze and assess issues, evaluate problems and solutions, critique decision-making, and justify informed action.

Students will analyze multiple, complex readings and source materials to promote in-depth understanding of social studies content knowledge.

Students will develop social studies writing skills to support in-depth and complex communication of social science inquiry.

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LIFE SCIENCE 6th GRADE

GRADE-LEVEL COURSE CHALLENGE COURSE

Content Knowledge and Skills

Grade-level and Challenge courses both exceed the

grade-level requirements of the State of Missouri.

Students will characterize and classify living organisms.

Students will connect how cellular structure and function plays a role in how organisms are able to carry out life processes and maintain stability for survival.

Students will explore the interactions and interdependence of living things with each other and their environment.

Students will examine the genetic basis of life and the role natural selection plays within populations.

Students will be prepared to meet and exceed the course requirements of Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Students will characterize and classify living organisms.

Students will connect how cellular structure and function plays a role in how organisms are able to carry out life processes and maintain stability for survival with a greater emphasis on the chemical basis of these processes.

Students will explore the interactions and interdependence of living things with each other and their environment.

Students will examine the genetic basis of life and the role natural selection plays within populations.

Students will be prepared to meet and exceed the course requirements of Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Pace

The speed or rate at which progress is made through

content or a lesson.

Challenge is a faster pace.

Content is paced to allow for mastery of grade-level curriculum.

Content is compacted to allow for a more intensive study of the curriculum.

Complexity and Difficulty

Complexity is the thought processes the brain uses to

deal with information.

Difficulty is the effort the learner must expend to accomplish the learning

objective.

Challenge is more complex and can be more difficult.

Students should be willing to commit to the increased

expectations of the course.

Students will utilize science practices throughout course content with an emphasis on:

Asking questions and defining problems.

Guided Inquiry through hands-on investigations.

Analyzing and interpreting data for increased data literacy.

Constructing evidence-based arguments.

Using informational text to gain information and to interpret models of processes.

Grade-level reading and writing assignments.

Students will develop critical process skills for assessing issues, problem solving, and decision-making.

Students will utilize science practices throughout the course with an emphasis on:

Asking probing questions and designing solutions to problems.

Inquiry-based investigations designed by students.

Analyzing and interpreting data using mathematics and computational thinking for increased data literacy.

Constructing and revising evidence-based arguments.

Developing, evaluating, and revising models through informational text and other types of models.

Intensive reading and writing assignments.

Students will apply critical process skills as they assess issues, solve problems, and make decisions.

In-Depth individual and collaborative projects utilizing intensive research, inquiry, analysis, synthesis (such as investigating research and technology related to working on cures for human disease.)

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EARTH SCIENCE 7th GRADE

GRADE-LEVEL COURSE CHALLENGE COURSE

Content Knowledge and Skills

Grade-level and Challenge courses both exceed the

grade-level requirements of the State of Missouri.

Students will investigate the Earth’s composition as well as the effects that shape its surface by exploring minerals, the rock cycle, fossils, and crustal plate movement.

Students will research connections between energy transformations, patterns, and the many factors that influence weather in order to make predictions from data and observations.

Students will analyze relationships between various science principles to better understand the Universe solar system, and Earth’s role.

Students will be prepared to meet and exceed the course requirements of Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Students will investigate the Earth’s composition as well as the effects that shape its surface by exploring minerals, the rock cycle, fossils, and crustal plate movement.

Students will research connections between energy transformations, patterns, and the many factors that influence weather in order to make predictions from data and observations.

Students will analyze relationships between various science principles to better understand the Universe solar system, and Earth’s role.

Students will be prepared to meet and exceed the course requirements of Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Pace

The speed or rate at which progress is made through

content or a lesson.

Challenge is a faster pace.

Content is paced to allow for mastery of grade-level curriculum.

Content is compacted to allow for a more intensive study of the curriculum.

Complexity and Difficulty

Complexity is the thought processes the brain uses to

deal with information.

Difficulty is the effort the learner must expend to accomplish the learning

objective.

Challenge is more complex and can be more difficult.

Students should be willing to commit to the increased

expectations of the course.

Students will utilize science practices throughout the course with an emphasis on:

Asking questions and defining problems

Guided Inquiry through hands-on investigations.

Analyzing and interpreting data for increased data literacy.

Constructing evidence-based arguments

Using informational text to gain information and to interpret models of processes.

Grade-level reading and writing assignments.

Students will develop critical process skills for assessing issues, problem solving, and decision-making.

Students will utilize science practice throughout the course with an emphasis on:

Asking probing questions and designing solutions to problems.

Inquiry-based investigations designed by students.

Analyzing and interpreting data using mathematics and computational thinking for increased data literacy.

Utilizing and researching science instrumentation to better understand and predict weather.

Constructing and revising evidence-based arguments.

Developing, evaluating, and revising models through informational text and other types of models.

Intensive reading and writing assignments.

Students will apply critical process skills as they assess issues, solve problems, and make decisions.

In-Depth individual and collaborative projects utilizing intensive research, inquiry, analysis, synthesis.

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PHYSICAL SCIENCE 8th GRADE

GRADE-LEVEL COURSE CHALLENGE COURSE

Content Knowledge and Skills

Grade-level and

Challenge courses both exceed the grade-level

requirements of the State of Missouri.

Students will explore the properties of matter, Conservation of Matter, Kinetic Theory, periodic trends, models of atoms and molecules, and changes in the states of matter.

Students will investigate various forms of energy.

Students will inquire about how forces affect the position and motion of an object by exploring Newton’s Laws of Motion and the how machines affect the work done.

Students will be prepared to meet and exceed the course requirements of Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Students will explore the properties of matter, Conservation of Matter, Kinetic Theory, periodic structure and trends, models of atoms and molecules, Atomic Theory, and changes in the states of matter. Students will apply concepts they learn as they model through constructing Lewis Dot Diagrams.

Students will gain better understanding of gas laws and density through modeling, investigating, and interpreting mathematical relationships.

Students will explore the transformation and conservation of various forms of energy and investigate the kinetic and potential energy.

Students will evaluate interactions between force and motion in mechanical systems by investigating Newton’s Laws of Motion; analyzing the relationship among work, power, and efficiency in terms of the effect of machines; and explore the Law of Conservation of Momentum to predict the outcome of collisions.

Students will analyze the relationship between forces and fluids.

Students will explore the different types of chemical bonds, chemical reactions and factors that affect reactivity. Students will apply what they know to predict products of a chemical reaction and to balance chemical equations.

Students will be prepared to meet and exceed the course requirements of Missouri Department of Elementary and Secondary Education.

Pace

The speed or rate at which progress is made

through content or a lesson.

Challenge is a faster pace.

Content is paced to allow for mastery of grade-level curriculum.

Content is compacted to allow for a more intensive study of the curriculum.

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Complexity and Difficulty

Complexity is the

thought processes the brain uses to deal with

information.

Difficulty is the effort the learner must

expend to accomplish the learning objective.

Challenge is more complex and can be

more difficult. Students should be willing to

commit to the increased expectations

of the course.

Students will utilize science practices throughout course content with an emphasis on:

Asking questions and defining problems.

Guided Inquiry through hands-on investigations.

Data collection, metric measurements and conversions.

Analyzing and interpreting data for increased data literacy.

A more conceptual approach with incorporation of some mathematical formulas and calculations.

Constructing evidence-based arguments.

Using informational text to gain information and to interpret models of processes.

Utilizing models to represent scientific relationships and patterns.

Grade-level reading and writing assignments.

Students will develop critical process skills for assessing issues, problem solving, and decision-making.

Students will utilize science practices throughout the course with an emphasis on:

Asking probing questions and designing solutions to problems.

Inquiry-based investigations designed by students.

Data collection, metric measurements and conversions.

Analyzing and interpreting data using mathematics and computational thinking for increased data literacy and deeper understanding of the science concepts.

Constructing, revising, and communicating evidence-based arguments.

Diagraming (i.e. Bohr’s model of an atom), developing, evaluating, and revising models through informational text and other types of models to demonstrate understanding.

Intensive reading and writing assignments.

Students will apply critical process skills as they assess issues, solve problems, and make decisions.

In-Depth individual and collaborative projects utilizing intensive research, inquiry, analysis, synthesis.

17

________ MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM________

SIXTH GRADE

6TH GRADE

Language Arts (6th Grade Language Arts Block, 6th Grade Challenge Language Arts Block,

6th Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts/Academic Stretch Block)

Math (6th Grade Math, 6th Grade Pre-Algebra)

Science (6th Grade Life Science, 6th Grade Challenge Life Science)

Social Studies (6th Grade World History, 6th Grade Challenge World History)

Physical Education/Health

ELECTIVE PROGRAM: (Full-Year Courses)

6th Grade Intermediate Orchestra

6th Grade Beginning Band

6th Grade Treble Choir

6th Grade Mixed Choir

EXPLORATORY PROGRAM: (Quarter Courses)

6th Grade Art Studio

6th Grade Design Studio

6th Grade Introduction to Theatre Arts

6th Grade Exploring FACS Life Skills

6th Grade Keyboarding and Input Technologies

6th Grade STEM Explorations

6th Grade Introduction to French

6th Grade Introduction to German

6th Grade Introduction to Spanish

18

________ SIXTH-GRADE CURRICULUM ________

6TH GRADE LANGUAGE ARTS BLOCK Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00023 (1st Sem.) MLA00024 (2nd Sem.)

The 6th grade language arts block will continue to develop reading, writing, information literacy, and listening and

speaking skills. Students will use metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more

complex material, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry and drama. Students will use the writing process in order to

create effective paragraphs. Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of Quality Writing. Vocabulary instruction and

word awareness will be embedded in the reading and writing processes. Students will further develop media

literacy skills, use of the research process, and their ability to evaluate both the relevance and reliability of

information gathered. Formal and informal speaking and discussion will be further promoted, as will listening for

information. Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for future years of study.

6TH GRADE CHALLENGE LANGUAGE ARTS BLOCK Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00029 (1st Sem.) MLA00030 (2nd Sem.)

The challenge curriculum is designed to meet the needs of those students with strong reading, writing and

organizational skills. It is recommended that students read independently at a 7th grade reading level or higher.

The curriculum will emphasize reading, writing, information literacy, and listening and speaking skills. Students will

use metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more complex material, including

fiction, non-fiction, poetry and drama. Students will use the writing process in order to create effective paragraphs.

Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of Quality Writing. Vocabulary instruction and word awareness will be

embedded in the reading and writing processes. Students will further develop media literacy skills, use of the

research process, and their ability to evaluate both the relevance and reliability of information gathered. Formal

and informal speaking and discussion opportunities will be further promoted, as will listening for information.

Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for future years of study.

19

6TH GRADE COMPACTED CHALLENGE LANGUAGE ARTS Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00041 (1st Sem.) MLA00042 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Identified Gifted students who meet Board of Education approved criteria.

6th grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts is scheduled in conjunction with Academic Stretch. As such, it meets

on alternating school days and is only offered to students identified as gifted. Because less time is available to cover

compacted challenge language arts objectives, the pace of instruction in Compacted Challenge Language Arts is

accelerated. It is highly recommended that students entering this course have advanced writing skills and read at or

above the 7th grade reading level. Students will use metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend

increasingly complex material, including fiction and non-fiction; students will read and analyze a variety of

advanced-level materials, including fiction, non-fiction, drama and poetry. Students will use the writing process in

order to create well-developed paragraphs and multi-paragraph pieces. Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of

Quality Writing. Vocabulary and word awareness will be taught through the reading and writing processes.

Students will further develop media literacy skills, use of the research process and their ability to evaluate both the

relevance and reliability of information gathered. Formal and informal speaking and discussion opportunities will be

further promoted, as will listening for information. Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for

future years of study.

6TH GRADE ACADEMIC STRETCH Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00043 (1st Sem.) MLA00044 (2nd Sem.)

Academic Stretch is the middle school component of the Rockwood Gifted Program. This component is offered in

grades six through eight for students who meet district criteria for the gifted program. Academic Stretch is offered

in conjunction with Compacted Challenge Language Arts (see above) and enables students to engage in

interdisciplinary, thematic studies that focus on real-world issues and challenges. These challenges involve

advanced-level content and open-ended investigations within the broad areas of change, survival and the nature of

systems. Forensics, inventions, natural disasters and the stock market are examples of specific units that are studied.

All units in this program are designed to promote active student engagement in learning and developing skills in

critical and creative thinking, information processing, problem-solving, communication and leadership. Time

management strategies, current events, literature, high-end technology, community resources and service projects

are also incorporated into the Academic Stretch curriculum, as are skills and concepts taught in Compacted

Challenge Language Arts classes.

20

6TH GRADE MATH Full Year

Course Number(s): MMA00012 (1st Sem.) MMA00013 (2nd Sem.)

The 6th Grade Math course extends students’ understanding of rational numbers and introduces concepts that

students will need in order to be successful in future algebra and geometry courses. Areas of focus include ratios

and proportional relationships, expressions and equations, geometric measurements, and data analysis. Students

will work extensively with fractions, decimals and percentages. Problem solving will be integrated throughout the

course requiring students to reason abstractly, explain their thinking, and persevere.

6TH GRADE PRE-ALGEBRA Full Year

Course Number(s): MMA00033 (1st Sem.) MMA00034 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Students must qualify for the 6th Grade Pre-Algebra by achieving a minimum score of Eligibility

Criteria.

The Pre-Algebra course emphasizes the language of algebra and problem solving. Students will explore properties

and operations within the real number system, proportional reasoning with similarity, rates and ratios, algebraic

expressions, linear equations and inequalities. They will solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area,

surface area and volume of two-and three-dimensional figures. Additionally, students will use statistics and sampling

to make inferences about data and investigate probability models.

6TH GRADE LIFE SCIENCE Full Year

Course Number(s): MSC00015 (1st Sem.) MSC00016 (2nd Sem.)

Life Science is a study of how organisms live, grow, and respond to their environment. Students will be able to

explain how organisms interact with other organisms in the physical environment to obtain matter and energy.

Students will learn to construct scientific explanations about the role of photosynthesis in the transfer of energy and

cycling of matter and how these processes relate to growth and survival of organisms as well as their interactions

with other living and nonliving parts of the ecosystem. Students will also use engineering practices and models to

begin to develop an understanding of inheritance and variation of traits. They will also formulate answers as to how

genetic variation among organisms in a species affects survival/reproduction and how environmental factors can

influence genetic traits over time.

21

6TH GRADE CHALLENGE LIFE SCIENCE Full Year

Course Number(s): MSC00017 (1st Sem.) MSC00018 (2nd Sem.)

Life Science is a study of how organisms live, grow, and respond to their environment. Students will be able to

explain how organisms interact with other organisms in the physical environment to obtain matter and energy.

Students will learn to construct scientific explanations about the role of photosynthesis in the transfer of energy and

cycling of matter and how these processes relate to growth and survival of organisms as well as their interactions

with other living and nonliving parts of the ecosystem. Students will also use engineering practices and models to

begin to develop an understanding of inheritance and variation of traits. They will also formulate answers as to how

genetic variation among organisms in a species affects survival/reproduction and how environmental factors can

influence genetic traits over time.

Challenge Life Science: Students will be expected to work more independently, with increased rigor, and be able to

analyze more complex multidimensional information as well as apply advanced math, literacy and technological

skills.

6TH GRADE WORLD HISTORY Full Year

Course Number(s): MSS00007 (1st Sem.) MSS00008 (2nd Sem.)

World History students will explore the ancient world from Pre-History through the Middle Ages. Students will

develop social science inquiry skills including questioning, gathering and using evidence, developing claims, and

constructing arguments and explanations. Using these skills, students will learn to analyze significant historical

developments and their connection to our world today. Students will build a strong understanding of the

relationship between humans and their environment, the development of government systems, and the effect of

trade and economic decisions on societies.

6TH GRADE CHALLENGE WORLD HISTORY Full Year

Course Number(s): MSS00009 (1st Sem.) MSS00010 (2nd Sem.)

Challenge World History students will explore the ancient world from Pre-History through the Middle Ages. Students

will develop and independently apply social science inquiry skills including questioning, gathering and using

evidence, developing claims, and constructing arguments and explanations. Using these skills, students will analyze

significant historical developments and issues, and critique their connection to our world today. Students will

analyze issues, problems and solutions related to humans and their environment, government systems, and the

effect of trade on economic decision-making.

22

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH Full Year

Course Number(s): MPE00004 (1st Sem.) MPE00005 (2nd Sem.)

Physical Education/Health in the 6th grade will provide students the opportunity to learn and practice a variety of

fundamental movement skills while participating in various games, team and individual/lifetime sports, as well as

team building activities. Primary focus will be on skill development and application in games. Character education

traits will be incorporated throughout the class. Physical fitness will be emphasized through the teaching of the

principles of health and skill-related fitness. Health topics will be integrated throughout the course and will include

nutrition, an overview of body systems, the endocrine system, diseases, personal hygiene, and tobacco use and

abuse.

23

________ SIXTH GRADE ELECTIVE PROGRAM ________

6TH GRADE INTERMEDIATE ORCHESTRA Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00035 (1st Sem.) MMU00036 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: 5th Grade Orchestra or evidence of equivalent training satisfactory to the instructor.

The training provided in 5th Grade Orchestra continues in this course. Students receive instruction in music-reading

skills, production of a good tone, bowing, and left hand techniques. Attendance at all performances is required and

part of the class grade as covered in the Rockwood School District Attendance Procedure for Secondary Music

Programs.

Students must provide their own instrument, book, and supplies.

6TH GRADE BEGINNING BAND Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00029 (1st Sem.) MMU00030 (2nd Sem.)

Beginning Band is a student’s entry into the Rockwood Band Program. A student interested in playing in a school

band should start in the 6th grade. Students who don’t take beginning band must demonstrate their competency in

an audition for the instructor to participate in band following the 6th grade year. This course is designed for students

interested in beginning-level instruction on flute, clarinet, oboe, saxophone, bassoon, trumpet, French horn,

trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion instruments (orchestra bells, xylophone, snare drum, bass drum, and

other percussion accessory instruments). Students will receive instruction on tone production, music-reading skills,

basic music theory, and instrument care. Attendance at all performances is required and part of the class grade as

covered in the Rockwood School District Attendance Procedure for Secondary Music Programs.

Students must provide their own instrument, book, and supplies.

6TH GRADE TREBLE CHOIR Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00017 (1st Sem.) MMU00018 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Approval by director

Note: Students may be asked to audition for placement in correct ensemble.

Treble Choir is a full-year performance course designed to introduce fundamentals of music and the skills required for effective ensemble singing. Students will rehearse and perform level-appropriate two-part choral literature. Attendance at all performances is required and a part of the class grade as stated in the Rockwood School District Concert Performance Expectations document. The voicings for this choir are Soprano and Alto.

24

6TH GRADE MIXED CHOIR Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00023 (1st Sem.) MMU00024 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Approval by director

Note: Students may be asked to audition for placement in correct ensemble.

Mixed Choir is a full-year performance course designed to introduce fundamentals of music and the skills required for effective ensemble singing. Students will rehearse and perform level-appropriate two-part choral literature. Attendance at all performances is required and a part of the class grade as stated in the Rockwood School District Concert Performance Expectations document. The voicings for this choir are Soprano and Alto. Baritone voicing may be utilized, as appropriate.

25

________ SIXTH GRADE EXPLORATORY PROGRAM ________

6TH GRADE ART STUDIO Quarter Course

Course Number(s): MAR00007

Students will create art from observation, personal experience, and imagination. They will learn and use drawing,

painting, and sculpture techniques to create original two- and three-dimensional artworks. Students will express

their personal or group identities, and create realistic or abstract works of art. They will analyze and critique

artworks, discuss aesthetic issues, and understand how art is related to history and culture.

6TH GRADE DESIGN STUDIO Quarter Course Course Number(s): MAR00008 Inspired by observation, imagination, and cultural studies, students will express themselves through the themes of

personal identity, symbols in society, and functional art containers. Students will create two- and three-dimensional

projects from original designs with a variety of drawing media, graphic design, and clay modeling techniques.

Students will analyze and critique artworks, discuss aesthetic issues, and understand how art is related to society.

6TH GRADE INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE ARTS Quarter Course

Course Number(s): MDR00005

Through activities involving movement, improv, storytelling, voice, and performance, students will learn the basics

of theatre and acting. Using their imaginations to make artistic choices, students will develop strategies to

collaborate, memorize and problem solve. Evaluations are based primarily on performances/projects.

6TH GRADE EXPLORING FACS LIFE SKILLS Quarter Course

Course Number(s): MFC00010

This exploratory course for Sixth Grade boys and girls is designed to introduce students to the subject of Family and

Consumer Sciences. Students will develop introductory food preparation skills while preparing and serving a variety

of breakfast foods and snacks. Construction of a creative sewing project exposes students to the use of sewing

machines. All of the course activities will emphasize safety and teamwork in an interactive environment.

26

6TH GRADE KEYBOARDING AND INPUT TECHNOLOGIES (KIT) Quarter Course

Course Number(s): MBS00010

KIT is a fast-paced class that builds the tech skills you will use for the rest of your life! Using fun software and online

apps, students will improve keying skills and learn vital computer basics. Imagine creating amazing hands-on

projects involving digital images, audio, video, and cool web tools. KIT is your “key” to success!

STEM EXPLORATIONS Quarter Course Course Number(s): MIT00007

In this course, students will explore various aspects of STEM. Students will learn the basics of 3D modeling and

printing, use the design process to collaboratively solve problems through fun projects, and be introduced to

computer programming through game design. This course provides a preview of future STEM opportunities available

in 7th and 8th grade.

6TH GRADE INTRODUCTION TO FRENCH Quarter Course Course Number(s): MFL00007 Introduction to French offers the student an overview of French language and culture. It covers basic vocabulary,

basic expressions, and cultural information. Ideally, the course is designed to help a student determine which World

Language to pursue in future studies.

6TH GRADE INTRODUCTION TO GERMAN Quarter Course

Course Number(s): MFL00008

Introduction to German offers the student an overview of German language and culture. It covers basic vocabulary,

basic expressions, and cultural information. Ideally, the course is designed to help a student determine which World

Language to pursue in future studies.

6TH GRADE INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH Quarter Course

Course Number(s): MFL00009

Introduction to Spanish offers the student an overview of Spanish language and culture. It covers basic vocabulary,

basic expressions, and cultural information. Ideally, the course is designed to help a student determine which World

Language to pursue in future studies.

27

_______ MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM________

SEVENTH GRADE

7TH GRADE CURRICULUM

Language Arts (7th Grade Language Arts Block, 7th Grade Challenge Language Arts Block,

7th Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts/Academic Stretch Block)

Math (7th Grade Pre-Algebra, 7th Grade Foundations of Algebra)

Science (7th Grade Earth and Space Science, 7th Grade Challenge Earth and Space Science)

Social Studies (7th Grade World Geography, 7th Grade Challenge World Geography)

Physical Education/Health

ELECTIVE PROGRAM: (Full-Year Courses)

7th Grade Cadet Orchestra

7th Grade Cadet Band

7th Grade Treble Choir

7th Grade Mixed Choir

7th Grade French 1 07

7th Grade German 1 07

7th Grade Spanish 1 07

EXPLORATORY PROGRAM: (Semester Courses)

7th Grade Art Studio

7th Grade Design Studio

7th Grade Theatre Arts Workshop

7th Grade FACS Life Skills 1

7th Grade 3D Design and Modeling

7th Grade Computer Science 1: App and Game Development

7th Grade Business and Information Technologies

28

________ SEVENTH-GRADE CURRICULUM ________

7TH GRADE LANGUAGE ARTS BLOCK Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00025 (1st Sem.) MLA00026 (2nd Sem.)

The 7th Grade Language Arts block will continue to develop reading, writing, information literacy and listening and

speaking skills. Students will use metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more

complex material, including fiction, non-fiction, poetry and drama. Students will use the writing process in order to

create effective paragraphs and multi-paragraph pieces. Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of Quality Writing.

Vocabulary instruction and word awareness will be embedded in the reading and writing processes. Students will

further develop media literacy skills, use of the research process, and their ability to evaluate both the relevance and

reliability of information gathered. Formal and informal speaking and discussion opportunities will be further

promoted, as will listening for information. Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for future

years of study.

7TH GRADE CHALLENGE LANGUAGE ARTS BLOCK Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00031 (1st Sem.) MLA00032 (2nd Sem.)

The Challenge curriculum is designed to meet the needs of those students with strong reading, writing, and

organizational skills. It is recommended that students read independently at 8th grade reading level or higher. The

curriculum will emphasize reading, writing, information literacy and listening and speaking skills. Students will use

metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more complex material, including fiction,

non-fiction, poetry and drama. Students will use the writing process in order to create effective paragraphs and

multi-paragraph pieces. Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of Quality Writing. Vocabulary instruction and word

awareness will be embedded in the reading and writing processes. Students will further develop media literacy skills,

use of the research process and their ability to evaluate both the relevance and reliability of information gathered.

Formal and informal speaking and discussion opportunities will be further promoted, as will listening for

information. Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for future years of study.

29

7TH GRADE COMPACTED CHALLENGE LANGUAGE ARTS Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00045 (1st Sem.) MLA00046 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Identified Gifted students who meet Board of Education approved criteria.

7th Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts is scheduled in conjunction with Academic Stretch. As such it meets

on alternating school days and is only offered to students identified as gifted. Because less time is available to cover

compacted challenge language arts objectives, the pace of instruction in Compacted Challenge Language Arts is

accelerated. It is therefore highly recommended that students entering this course have advanced writing skills and

read at or above the 8th grade reading level. Students will use metacognitive and active reading strategies to

comprehend increasingly complex material, including fiction and non-fiction; students will read and analyze a variety

of advanced-level materials, including fiction, non-fiction, drama and poetry. Students will use the writing process in

order to create well-developed paragraphs and multi-paragraph pieces. Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of

Quality Writing. Vocabulary and word awareness will be taught through the reading and writing processes.

Students will further develop media literacy skills, use of the research process and their ability to evaluate both the

relevance and reliability of information gathered. Formal and informal speaking and discussion opportunities will be

further promoted, as will listening for information. Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for

future years of study.

7TH GRADE ACADEMIC STRETCH Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00047 (1st Sem.) MLA00048 (2nd Sem.)

Academic Stretch is the middle school component of the Rockwood Gifted Program. This component is offered in

grades six through eight for students who meet district criteria for the gifted program. Academic Stretch is offered

in conjunction with Compacted Challenge Language Arts (see above) and enables students to engage in

interdisciplinary, thematic studies that focus on real-world issues and challenges. These challenges involve

advanced-level content and open-ended investigations within the broad areas of change, survival and the nature of

systems. Forensics, inventions, natural disasters and the stock market are examples of specific units that are studied.

All units in this program are designed to promote active student engagement in learning and developing skills in

critical and creative thinking, information processing, problem-solving, communication and leadership. Time

management strategies, current events, literature, high-end technology, community resources and service projects

are also incorporated into the Academic Stretch curriculum, as are skills and concepts taught in Compacted

Challenge Language Arts classes.

7TH GRADE PRE-ALGEBRA Full Year

Course Number(s): MMA00039 (1st Sem.) MMA00040 (2nd Sem.)

The Pre-Algebra course emphasizes the language of algebra and problem solving. Students will explore properties and operations within the real number system, proportional reasoning with similarity, rates and ratios, algebraic expressions, linear equations and inequalities. They will solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, surface area and volume of two-and three-dimensional figures. Additionally, students will use statistics and sampling to make inferences about data and investigate probability models.

30

7TH GRADE FOUNDATIONS OF ALGEBRA Full Year

Course Number(s): MMA00035 (1st Sem.) MMA00036 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Pre-Algebra.

The Foundations of Algebra course is a combination of geometric and algebraic concepts that will enhance and extend Pre-Algebra knowledge to prepare students for Algebra 1 and beyond. Application, problem solving, and critical thinking are integrated throughout the course. The main focus will be for students to solve, graph, and apply linear relationships. The course will also extend student’s knowledge of the following: radicals, exponents, congruence and similarity, volume of three-dimensional figures, Pythagorean Theorem, rational and irrational numbers, functions, and bivariate data.

7TH GRADE EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE Full Year

Course Number(s): MSC00019 (1st Sem.) MSC00020 (2nd Sem.)

Earth and Space Science investigates the processes that operate on Earth and also addresses the Earth’s place in the

solar system and the galaxy. In this course, students will investigate and explore patterns in weather and climate,

and interactions that drive changes over multiple time scales. Students will model Earth’s Systems that drive Earth’s

conditions in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere. Students will then construct explanations about Earth’s

history and how it has changed over time by looking at evidence from fossils and plate tectonics. Human impact will

be embedded in our units to explore society’s interaction with the planet.

7TH GRADE CHALLENGE EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE Full Year

Course Number(s): MSC00021 (1st Sem.) MSC00022 (2nd Sem.)

Earth and Space Science investigates the processes that operate on Earth and also addresses the Earth’s place in the

solar system and the galaxy. In this course, students will investigate and explore patterns in weather and climate,

and interactions that drive changes over multiple time scales. Students will model Earth’s systems that drive Earth’s

conditions in the atmosphere, hydrosphere, and geosphere. Students will then construct explanations about Earth’s

history and how it has changed over time by looking at evidence from fossils and plate tectonics. Human impact will

be embedded in our units to explore society’s interaction with the planet.

Challenge Earth and Space Science: Students will be expected to work more independently, with increased rigor, and be able to analyze more complex multidimensional information as well as apply advanced math, literacy and technological skills.

31

7TH GRADE WORLD GEOGRAPHY Full Year Course Number(s): MSS00011 (1st Sem.) MSS00012 (2nd Sem.)

World Geography students will explore the human and physical characteristics of the world by examining the regions

of North American, Latin/ South America, Southwest Asia, Asia and Europe. The course will emphasize the

relationships between humans and their world, and the impact on the establishment and development of societies.

Students will develop and apply social studies inquiry skills of questioning, gathering and analyzing sources, and

communicating information, as they examine the key areas of government, climate, economics and culture for each

region studied.

7TH GRADE CHALLENGE WORLD GEOGRAPHY Full Year

Course Number(s): MSS00013 (1st Sem.) MSS00014 (2nd Sem.)

Challenge World Geography students will explore the human and physical characteristics of the world by examining

the regions of North American, Latin/South America, Southwest Asia, Asia and Europe. The course will emphasize the

relationships between humans and their world, and the impact on the establishment and development of societies.

Students will develop and independently apply social studies inquiry skills of questioning, gathering and analyzing

sources, and communicating information, as they analyze issues, evaluate problems and critique solutions. Students

will analyze a variety of complex data and text and write social studies arguments as they examine the key areas of

government, climate, economics and culture for each region studied.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH Full Year

Course Number(s): MPE00006 (1st Sem.) MPE00007 (2nd Sem.)

Physical Education/Health in the 7th Grade will provide students the opportunity to learn and practice a variety of

fundamental movement skills while participating in various games, team and individual/lifetime sports, as well as

team building activities. Primary focus will be on skill development and application in team sports. Character

education traits will be incorporated throughout the class. Physical fitness will be emphasized through the teaching

of the principles of health and skill-related fitness. Health topics will be integrated throughout the course and will

include nutrition, the cardio-respiratory system, the reproductive system, first aid and personal safety, and alcohol

use and abuse, inhalants and other illegal drug use and abuse.

32

________ SEVENTH GRADE ELECTIVE PROGRAM ________

7TH GRADE CADET ORCHESTRA Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00037 (1st Sem.) MMU00038 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Beginning Orchestra, Intermediate Orchestra or evidence of equivalent training satisfactory to the

instructor.

This is a performance-oriented course. Students continue to receive instruction in production of a good tone, music-

reading skills, bowing and left hand techniques. The fundamentals of performance within an orchestral ensemble

will be developed. Students are prepared for the demands of the more advanced orchestral literature performed in

the Concert Orchestra. Orchestral literature in a variety of different styles will be rehearsed and performed.

Attendance at all performances is required and part of the class grade as covered in the Rockwood School District

Attendance Procedure for Secondary Music Programs.

Students are encouraged to participate in appropriate enrichment opportunities, such as private lessons, All-

Suburban Honors Orchestra, All-District Honor Orchestra, Solo and Ensemble Festival, and the Community Music

School at Webster University Youth Orchestra Program.

Students must provide their own instrument, book, and supplies.

7TH GRADE CADET BAND Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00031 (1st Sem.) MMU00032 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: 6th Grade Beginning Band or Band Director Approval

Cadet Band is a student’s second year of instruction in the Rockwood Band Program. Students who do not take beginning band must demonstrate their competency in an audition for the instructor to participate in band during 7th grade year. This course is designed for students interested in continuing their music education on an instrument with a focus on technical development and music literacy. Attendance at all performances is required and part of the class grade as covered in the Rockwood School District Concert Performance Expectations document. Students must provide their own instrument, book, and supplies.

7TH GRADE TREBLE CHOIR Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00019 (1st Sem.) MMU00020 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Successful 6th grade choral experience and/or approval by director

Treble Choir is a full-year performance course designed to reinforce fundamentals of music and the skills required for effective ensemble singing. Students will rehearse and perform level-appropriate two- and three-part choral literature. Attendance at all scheduled performances is required and a part of the class grade as stated in the Rockwood School District Concert Performance Expectations document. The voicings for this choir are Soprano, Second Soprano and Alto.

33

7TH GRADE MIXED CHOIR Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00025 (1st Sem.) MMU00026 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Successful 6th grade choral experience and/or approval by director

Mixed Choir is a full-year performance course designed to reinforce fundamentals of music and the skills required for effective ensemble singing. Students will rehearse and perform level-appropriate two- and three-part choral literature. Attendance at all scheduled performances is required and a part of the class grade as stated in the Rockwood School District Concert Performance Expectations document. The voicings for this choir are Soprano, Alto and Baritone.

7TH GRADE FRENCH 1 07 Full Year

Course Number(s): MFL00010 (1st Sem.) MFL00011 (2nd Sem.)

Note: Level 1A is the first half of a 2-year Level 1 course offered to 7th graders at the middle school.

This elective course, the first in a two-part sequence, provides students with the necessary foundation for the

continued study of French through Level 1. The focus of the course is developing communication skills. Students will

learn to read, write, speak, and listen to French while studying grammar and topical vocabulary. Cultural activities

introduce the student to the customs and geography of the French-speaking countries. Students will also explore

how French language and culture relates to English and to other cultures. This class is a prerequisite for French 1B.

A grade of C or better is strongly recommended to continue on to French 1B.

7TH GRADE GERMAN 1 07 Full Year

Course Number(s): MFL00020 (1st Sem.) MFL00021 (2nd Sem.)

Note: Level 1 07 is the first half of a 2-year level 1 course offered to 7th graders in the middle school.

This elective course, the first in a two-part sequence, provides students with the necessary foundation for the

continued study of German through Level 1. The focus of the course is developing communication skills. Students

will learn to read, write, speak, and listen to German while studying grammar and topical vocabulary. Cultural

activities introduce the student to the customs and geography of the German-speaking countries. Students will also

explore how German language and culture relates to English and to other cultures. This class is a prerequisite for

German 1B. A grade of C or better is strongly recommended to continue on to German 1B.

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7TH GRADE SPANISH 1 07 Full Year

Course Number(s): MFL00030 (1st Sem.) MFL00031 (2nd Sem.)

Note: Level 1A is the first half of a 2-year level 1 course offered to 7th graders at the middle school.

This elective course, the first in a two-part sequence, provides students with the necessary foundation for the

continued study of Spanish through Level 1. The focus of the course is developing communication skills. Students

will learn to read, write, speak, and listen to Spanish while studying grammar and topical vocabulary. Cultural

activities introduce the student to the customs and geography of the Spanish-speaking countries. Students will also

explore how the Spanish language and culture relates to English and to other cultures. This class is a prerequisite for

Spanish 1B. A grade of C or better is strongly recommended to continue on to Spanish 1B.

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________ SEVENTH GRADE EXPLORATORY PROGRAM ________

7TH GRADE ART STUDIO Semester Course

Course Number(s): MAR00009

Students will learn about and use techniques of drawing media, watercolors, cardboard, and ceramics to create

original two- and three-dimensional artworks. They will observe and communicate ideas about landscapes in one-

point perspective, realistic and abstract portraits, and nonobjective art. Students will analyze and critique artworks,

discuss aesthetic issues, and understand how art is related to history and culture.

7TH GRADE DESIGN STUDIO Semester Course

Course Number(s): MAR00010

Students will learn about and use techniques of drawing, painting, computer design, and sculpture media to create

cartoons, masks, wearable art (jewelry or clothing design), and advertisements. They will create original two- and

three-dimensional artworks. Students will analyze and critique artworks, discuss aesthetic issues, and understand

how the design and use of products are tied to history and culture.

7TH GRADE Theatre Arts Workshop Semester Course

Course Number(s): MDR00003

Through activities involving movement, improv, script writing, scene work, filmmaking, voice, and performance,

students will learn to develop their knowledge of theatre and acting. Using their imaginations to make artistic

choices, students will develop strategies to collaborate, memorize, empathize and problem solve. Evaluations are

based primarily on performances/projects.

7TH GRADE FACS LIFE SKILLS 1 Semester Course

Course Number(s): MFC00011

In Life Skills 1 classes, students will prepare a variety of foods. During food labs cooperation, problem solving, and

evaluation skills are emphasized. Hand and machine sewing skills will be developed during project construction.

During this unit, students will also learn clothing care and basic laundry skills. Students who pass 7th Grade

Life Skills 1 may enroll in 8th Grade Life Skills 2.

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7TH GRADE 3D Design and Modeling Semester Course

Course Number(s): MIT00008

Students will follow the design process as they create a physical model/prototype to address a need or want in

society. Through this process, students will learn how to use 3D software for modeling and 3D printing. Students will

learn and apply measurement and dimensioning skills to replicate objects and then create original prototypes.

Computer Science 1: App and Game Development Semester Course

Course Number(s): MIT000022

Computer science is a growing, high demand field. In this course, students will be introduced to a variety of core

programming skills. Using a collaborative design process, students will apply these programming skills to create their

own apps and games.

7TH GRADE BUSINESS AND INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES (BIT) Semester Course

Course Number(s): MBS00020

BIT: A little BIT goes a long way! Jump-start your future in this project-based class using Microsoft Office 2010 and

other fun Web 2.0 tools. Use your creativity to customize calendars, interior designs, restaurant menus, and more.

Enjoy an online shopping spree and learn to create and edit videos. The tech skills you master in this class will

prepare you for high school and beyond.

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________ MIDDLE SCHOOL PROGRAM ________

EIGHTH GRADE

8TH GRADE

Language Arts (8th Grade Language Arts Block, 8th Grade Challenge Language Arts Block,

8th Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts/Academic Stretch Block)

Math (8th Grade Foundations of Algebra, 8th Grade Algebra 1, 8th Grade Honors Geometry)

Science (8th Grade Physical Science, 8th Grade Challenge Physical Science)

Social Studies (8th Grade United States History, 8th Grade Challenge United States History)

Physical Education/Health

ELECTIVE PROGRAM: (Full-Year Courses)

8th Grade Concert Orchestra

8th Grade Concert Band

8th Grade Treble Choir

8th Grade Mixed Choir

8th Grade French 1 08

8th Grade German 1 08

8th Grade Spanish 1 08

8th Grade Art Fundamentals

EXPLORATORY PROGRAM: (Semester Courses)

8th Grade Art Studio

8th Grade Design Studio

8th Grade Theatre Arts Workshop

8th Grade Theatre Arts Studio

8th Grade FACS Life Skills 1

8th Grade FACS Life Skills 2

8th Grade Digital Information Technologies

8th Grade Automation and Robotics

8th Grade Computer Science 1: App and Game Development

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________ EIGHTH-GRADE CURRICULUM ________

8TH GRADE LANGUAGE ARTS BLOCK Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00027 (1st Sem.) MLA00028 (2nd Sem.)

The 8th Grade Language Arts block will continue to develop reading, writing, information literacy and listening and

speaking skills. Students will use reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more complex material. Students

will use the writing process in order to create effective paragraphs and multi-paragraph pieces. Emphasis will be

placed on the Six Traits of Quality Writing. Vocabulary instruction and word awareness will be embedded in the

reading and writing processes. Students will further develop media literary skills, use of the research process and

their ability to evaluate both the relevance and reliability of information gathered. Speaking and discussion will be

further promoted as will listening for information. Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for

future years of study.

8TH GRADE CHALLENGE LANGUAGE ARTS BLOCK Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00033 (1st Sem.) MLA00034 (2nd Sem.)

The Challenge curriculum is designed to meet the needs of those students with strong reading, writing and

organizational skills. It is recommended that students read independently at 9th grade reading level or higher. The

curriculum will emphasize reading, writing, information literacy and listening and speaking skills. Students will use

metacognitive and active reading strategies to comprehend increasingly more complex material, including fiction,

non-fiction, poetry and drama. Students will use the writing process in order to create effective paragraphs and

multi-paragraph pieces. Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of Quality Writing. Vocabulary instruction and

word awareness will be embedded in the reading and writing processes. Students will further develop media

literary skills, use of the research process and their ability to evaluate both the relevance and reliability of

information gathered. Formal and informal speaking and discussion opportunities will be further promoted, as will

listening for information. Students will be expected to apply these skills in preparation for future years of study.

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8TH GRADE COMPACTED CHALLENGE LANGUAGE ARTS Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00049 (1st Sem.) MLA00050 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Identified Gifted students who meet Board of Education approved criteria.

8th Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts is scheduled in conjunction with Academic Stretch. As such it meets

on alternating school days and is only offered to students identified as gifted. Because less time is available to cover

compacted challenge language arts objectives, the pace of instruction in Compacted Challenge Language Arts is

accelerated. It is therefore highly recommended that entering students have advanced writing skills and

read at or above the 9th grade reading level. Students will use metacognitive and active reading strategies to

comprehend increasingly complex material, including fiction and non-fiction; students will read and analyze a variety

of advanced-level materials, including fiction, non-fiction, drama and poetry. Students will use the writing process in

order to create well-developed paragraphs and multi-paragraph pieces. Emphasis will be placed on the Six Traits of

Quality Writing. Vocabulary and word awareness will be taught through word stems and the reading and writing

processes. Students will further develop media literary skills, use of the research process and their ability to

evaluate both the relevance and reliability of information gathered. Formal and informal speaking and discussion

opportunities will be further promoted, as will listening for information. Students will be expected to apply these

skills in preparation for future years of study.

8TH GRADE ACADEMIC STRETCH Full Year

Course Number(s): MLA00051 (1st Sem.) MLA00052 (2nd Sem.)

Academic Stretch is the middle school component of the Rockwood Gifted Program. This component is offered in

grades six through eight for students who meet district criteria for the gifted program. Academic Stretch is offered

in conjunction with Compacted Language Arts (see above) and enables students to engage in interdisciplinary,

thematic studies that focus on real-world issues and challenges. These challenges involve advanced-level content

and open-ended investigations within the broad areas of change, survival and the nature of systems. Forensics,

inventions, natural disasters and the stock market are examples of specific units that are studied. All units in this

program are designed to promote active student engagement in learning and developing skills in critical and creative

thinking, information processing, problem-solving, communication and leadership. Time management strategies,

current events, literature, high-end technology, community resources and service projects are also incorporated into

the Academic Stretch curriculum, as are skills and concepts taught in Compacted Challenge Language Arts classes.

Literature, current events, high-end technology, community resources, time management skills and community

service are also incorporated into the Academic Stretch curriculum.

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8TH GRADE FOUNDATIONS OF ALGEBRA Full Year

Course Number(s): MMA00037 (1st Sem.) MMA00038 (2nd Sem.)

The Foundations of Algebra course is a combination of geometric and algebraic concepts that will enhance and

extend Pre-Algebra knowledge to prepare students for Algebra 1 and beyond. Application, problem solving, and

critical thinking are integrated throughout the course. The main focus will be for students to solve, graph, and apply

linear relationships. The course will also extend student’s knowledge of the following: radicals, exponents,

congruence and similarity, volume of three-dimensional figures, Pythagorean Theorem, rational and irrational

numbers, functions, and bivariate data.

8TH GRADE ALGEBRA 1 Full Year

Course Number(s): MMA00024 (1st Sem.) MMA00025 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Foundations of Algebra.

The fundamental purpose of this course is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in

Foundations of Algebra. Students will explore many examples of functions, compare key characteristics of these

functions, and translate between graphical, numerical and symbolic representations of them. They will create and

solve equations and inequalities, and systems of equations involving linear and quadratic expressions, extend the

laws of exponents to rational exponents and compare/contrast linear and exponential functions. Students will use

regression techniques to describe linear relationships between quantities and use technology as an instructional tool

throughout the course as they explore and make sense of problems in real-world context.

A grade of “A” or “B” is recommended for students who wish to proceed to Honors Geometry. Students taking this course should be highly motivated, goal-oriented, and willing to devote an appropriate amount of time to mathematics.

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8TH GRADE HONORS GEOMETRY Full Year

Course Number(s): MMA00028 (1st Sem.) MMA00029 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of Algebra 1.

A grade of “B” or better in Algebra 1 is highly recommended.

This course is a rigorous proof-based course designed to develop spatial concepts and insight into geometric

relationships. A precise mathematical language is developed with an emphasis on reading and real-life problem

solving. Transformations on the coordinate plane provide opportunities for the formal study of congruence and

similarity. The study of similarity leads to right triangle trigonometry and connects to quadratics and circles through

Pythagorean relationships. The study of circles uses similarity and congruence to develop basic theorems related to

circles and lines. The link between probability and data is explored through conditional probability. All units in this

course will tie together geometric and previous advanced algebraic content knowledge such as systems of

equations, factoring and solving quadratic equations. Advanced proofs are integrated throughout the course and

will allow students to experience Geometry as a useful and logical subject.

8TH GRADE PHYSICAL SCIENCE Full Year

Course Number(s): MSC00023 (1st Sem.) MSC00024 (2nd Sem.)

8th grade Science is a guided inquiry-based study of physics and chemistry. Students will analyze the properties of

changes in matter, forms of energy, and interactions of forces. Students will inquire about how forces affect the

position and motion of an object by exploring Newton’s Laws of motion and how machines affect the work done.

Students will investigate various forms of energy as well as exploring the properties of matter, atomic theory,

development of the periodic table, conservation of matter, and kinetic theory. The guided exploration of the scientific

and engineering practices through hands-on learning is embedded in all units of study.

8TH GRADE CHALLENGE PHYSICAL SCIENCE Full Year Course Number(s): MSC00025 (1st Sem.) MSC00026 (2nd Sem.) Prerequisite: Successful completion of 7th Grade Foundations of Algebra.

8th grade Science is a guided inquiry-based study of physics and chemistry. Students will analyze the properties of changes in matter, forms of energy, and interactions of forces. Students will inquire about how forces affect the position and motion of an object by exploring Newton’s Laws of motion and how machines affect the work done. Students will investigate various forms of energy as well as exploring the properties of matter, atomic theory, development of the periodic table, conservation of matter, and kinetic theory. The guided exploration of the scientific and engineering practices through hands-on learning is embedded in all units of study. Challenge Physical Science: Students will be expected to work more independently, with increased rigor, and be able to analyze more complex multidimensional information as well as apply advanced math, literacy and technological skills. Students will be required to solve numerical problems based upon algebraic equations within each unit of study, complete intensive reading and writing assignments, and in-depth individual collaborative projects utilizing research, graphical analysis, inquiry, analysis and synthesis.

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8TH GRADE UNITED STATES HISTORY Full Year

Course Number(s): MSS00015 (1st Sem.) MSS00016 (2nd Sem.)

United States History students will examine the early origins and history of the United States from exploration

through Reconstruction. By utilizing a variety of primary and secondary sources, students will develop and apply

social science inquiry and process skills in order to understand historical and contemporary issues, solve problems,

make educated decisions and take informed action. Students will demonstrate their understanding by developing

social science writing skills and will be able to effectively communicate the results of their learning.

8TH GRADE CHALLENGE UNITED STATES HISTORY Full Year

Course Number(s): MSS00017 (1st Sem.) MSS00018 (2nd Sem.)

Challenge United States History students will examine the early origins and history of the United States from

exploration through Reconstruction. Students will engage in in-depth analysis of critical historical documents and

artifacts in order to build an understanding of our nation, including our government. By utilizing a variety of primary

and secondary sources, students will develop and apply social science inquiry and process skills in order to

understand historical and contemporary issues, solve problems, make educated decisions and take informed action.

Students will demonstrate their understanding by developing social science writing skills and will be able to

effectively communicate the results of their learning.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH Full Year

Course Number(s): MPE00008 (1st Sem.) MPE00009 (2nd Sem.)

Physical Education/Health in the 8th Grade will provide students the opportunity to learn and practice a variety of

fundamental movement skills while participating in various games, team and individual/lifetime sports, as well as

team building activities. Primary focus will be on skill development and application in individual/lifetime sports.

Character education traits will be incorporated throughout the class. Physical fitness will be emphasized through

the teaching of the principles of health and skill-related fitness. Health topics will be integrated throughout the

course and will include nutrition, the muscular-skeletal system, sexual abstinence, stress management, conflict

resolutions and violence prevention, and illegal drug use and abuse.

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________ EIGHTH GRADE ELECTIVE PROGRAM ________

8TH GRADE CONCERT ORCHESTRA Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00039 (1st Sem.) MMU00040 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Cadet Orchestra or evidence of equivalent training satisfactory to the instructor.

This is a performance-oriented course. Training is provided in technical skills, music reading, and in the performance

of a broad range of musical styles. More advanced orchestral literature is performed. Students are prepared for the

demands of the literature that will be performed in the high school orchestra. Attendance at all performances is

required and part of the class grade as covered in the Rockwood School District Attendance Procedure for Secondary

Music Programs.

Students are encouraged to participate in appropriate enrichment opportunities, such as private lessons, All-

Suburban Honors Orchestra, All-District Honor Orchestra, Solo and Ensemble Festival, and the Community Music

School at Webster University Youth Orchestra.

Students must provide their own instrument, book, and supplies.

8TH GRADE CONCERT BAND Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00033 (1st Sem.) MMU00034 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: 7th Grade Cadet Band or Band Director Approval

Concert Band is a student’s third year of instruction in the Rockwood Band Program. Students who do not take beginning or cadet band must demonstrate their competency in an audition for the instructor to participate in band during 8th grade year. This course is designed for students interested in continuing their music education on an instrument with a focus on ensemble skills or development and independent musicianship. Attendance at all performances is required and part of the class grade as covered in the Rockwood School District Concert Performance Expectations document. Students must provide their own instrument, book, and supplies.

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8TH GRADE TREBLE CHOIR Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00021 (1st Sem.) MMU00022 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Successful 7th Grade choral experience and/or approval by director.

Treble Choir is a full-year performance course designed to reinforce fundamentals of music and the skills required for effective ensemble singing. Students will rehearse and perform level-appropriate two-, three- and four-part choral literature. In this class, students are prepared for the demands of the literature performed at the high school level. Attendance at all scheduled performances is required and a part of the class grade as stated in the Rockwood School District Concert Performance Expectations document. The voicings for this choir are Soprano, Second Soprano, Alto and optional Second Alto.

8TH GRADE MIXED CHOIR Full Year

Course Number(s): MMU00027 (1st Sem.) MMU00028 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Successful 7th Grade choral experience and/or approval by director.

Mixed Choir is a full-year performance course designed to reinforce fundamentals of music and the skills required for effective ensemble singing. Students will rehearse and perform level-appropriate two-, three- and four-part choral literature. In this class, students are prepared for the demands of the literature performed at the high school level. Attendance at all scheduled performances is required and a part of the class grade as stated in the Rockwood School District Concert Performance Expectations document. The voicings for this choir are Soprano, Alto, optional Tenor and Baritone.

FRENCH 1 08 Full Year

Course Number(s): MFL00012 (1st Sem.) MFL00013 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Completion of Level 1 07

This elective course advances the student’s ability to communicate in French. The student will continue to learn to

read, write, speak, and listen to French through studying grammar and thematic vocabulary. Students will apply and

revise prior knowledge, vocabulary, and grammar knowledge from French 1 A. The student utilizes technology and

authentic resources to expand awareness of the cultures and practices of French-speaking countries. This class

prepares a student for success and is a prerequisite for Level 2 high school French. A grade of C or better is strongly

recommended to continue on to French 2.

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GERMAN 1 08 Full Year

Course Number(s): MFL00022 (1st Sem.) MFL00023 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Completion of Level 1 07

This elective course advances the student’s ability to communicate in German. The student will continue to learn to

read, write, speak, and listen to German through studying grammar and thematic vocabulary. Students will apply

and revise prior knowledge, vocabulary, and grammar knowledge from German 1 A. The student utilizes technology

and authentic resources to expand awareness of the cultures and practices of German-speaking countries. This class

prepares a student for success and is a prerequisite for Level 2 high school German. A grade of C or better is

strongly recommended to continue on to German 2.

SPANISH 1 08 Full Year

Course Number(s): MFL00032 (1st Sem.) MFL00033 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Completion of Level 1 07

This elective course advances the student’s ability to communicate in Spanish. The student will continue to learn to

read, write, speak, and listen to Spanish through studying grammar and thematic vocabulary. Students will apply

and revise prior knowledge, vocabulary, and grammar knowledge from Spanish 1 A. The student utilizes technology

and authentic resources to expand awareness of the cultures and practices of Spanish-speaking countries. This class

prepares a student for success and is a prerequisite for Level 2 high school Spanish. A grade of C or better is strongly

recommended to continue on to Spanish 2.

8TH GRADE ART FUNDAMENTALS Full Year

Course Number(s): MAR00013 (1st Sem.) MAR00014 (2nd Sem.)

Prerequisite: Successful previous middle school art coursework and/or approval by the teacher.

Art Fundamentals is for all students who want to pursue an interest or future career in visual arts. Students will

create original artwork in realistic, abstract, and nonobjective styles. Inspired by observation and imagination, they

will express themselves through the themes of still life, landscape and portrait. They will learn about and use

drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media techniques to create two- and three-dimensional artworks. Students

will analyze and critique artworks, discuss aesthetic issues, and understand how art is related to history and culture.

This class prepares a student for success in, and is a prerequisite for, Level 1 high school visual arts courses:

Ceramics, Drawing, Graphic Design, Painting, Photography, and Sculpture. A grade of C or better in Art

Fundamentals is required to continue on to these level 1 courses.

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________ EIGHTH GRADE EXPLORATORY PROGRAM ________

8TH GRADE ART STUDIO Semester Course

Course Number(s): MAR00011

Students will create original, two- and three-dimensional art based upon observation, landscape, still life, the human

figure, and contemporary visual culture. They will learn and use drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture

techniques to experiment with realistic and abstract art. Students will be inspired by realistic and abstract art. They

will analyze and critique artworks, discuss aesthetic issues, and understand how design is related to history and

culture.

8TH GRADE DESIGN STUDIO Semester Course

Course Number(s): MAR00012

Students will learn about and use techniques of mixed media, ceramics, computer design, and book-making to

create political art, game design, architecture and illustrated manuscripts. They will create original two- and three-

dimensional artworks. Students will analyze and critique artworks, discuss aesthetic issues, and understand how art

is applied to serve various purposes in society.

8TH GRADE THEATRE ARTS WORKSHOP Semester Course

Course Number(s): MDR00002

Through activities involving movement, improv, script writing, scene work, filmmaking, voice, and performance,

students will learn to develop their knowledge of theatre and acting. Using their imaginations to make artistic

choices, students will develop strategies to collaborate, memorize, empathize, and problem solve. Evaluations are

based primarily on performances/projects.

8TH GRADE THEATRE ARTS STUDIO Semester Course

Course Number(s): MDR0004

Prerequisite: Completion of 7th or 8th Grade Theatre Arts Workshop

This course is for students who have successfully completed 7th or 8th Grade Theatre Arts Workshop. Through

activities involving movement, improv, script writing, filmmaking, technical design, scene work, voice, and

performance, students will expand their knowledge of theatre and acting. Using their imaginations to make artistic

choices, students will develop strategies to collaborate, memorize, empathize and problem solve. Evaluations are

based primarily on performances/projects.

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8TH GRADE FACS LIFE SKILLS 1 Semester Course

Course Number(s): MFC00013

In Life Skills I classes, students will prepare a variety of foods. During food labs cooperation, problem solving, and

evaluation skills are emphasized. Hand and machine sewing skills will be developed during project construction.

During this unit, students will also learn clothing care and basic laundry skills.

8TH GRADE FACS LIFE SKILLS 2 Semester Course

Course Number(s): MFC00015

Prerequisite: 7th Grade Life Skills 1

This course is a continuation of 7th Grade Life Skills 1. Students are expected to apply the 7th grade curriculum in

order to improve their skills in food preparation and sewing. Life Skills 2 integrates a variety of curricular areas such

as math, science, health and artistic design. As part of the sewing unit, students will complete an intermediate

project to further develop their sewing skills.

8TH GRADE DIGITAL INFORMATION TECHNOLOGIES (DIT) Semester Course

Course Number(s): MBS00030

DIT: Explore your creative side while making commercials with video production software and using graphic design

software to enhance images and create advertising. Use Web 2.0 tools to create dynamic presentations while

developing communication, problem solving and leadership skills. Be prepared by understanding how technology

and business is changing our world, and be ready for your future with DIT!

8TH GRADE AUTOMATION and ROBOTICS Semester Course

Course Number(s): MIT00020

Automation and robotics is changing the way the world works. In this course, students will follow the design process

as they create solutions to solve problems using robotics and automation. Throughout this course, students will be

working collaboratively to build mechanisms and program motors and sensors to create automated systems.

8TH GRADE COMPUTER SCIENCE 1: APP and GAME DEVELOPMENT Semester Course

Course Number(s): MIT00023

Computer Science is a growing, high-demand field. In this course, students will be introduced to a variety of core

programming skills. Using a collaborative design process, students will apply these programming skills to create their

own apps and games.

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________ English for Speakers of Other Languages (ESOL) ________

The ESOL program focuses on understanding of social and academic language to promote competency in school and community settings through individualized instruction and support.

We work with students so they acquire the needed social language skills to engage in our school community. An important objective is to guide students to improve academic language so they learn and grow toward competency in Rockwood curricular areas.

Note the following description of the ESOL program:

Instruction is provided in students' home schools. Instructional models include one-on-one, small group, or assistance within the regular classroom

instruction. Social language instruction is emphasized with the concurrent development of listening, speaking,

reading, and writing through authentic student-centered materials Academic language instruction is a strong focus of the program. The basic usage of computer technology is an educational component. Instruction in U.S. cultural literacy is provided. The Support of students' home cultures through comparison of cultures within the instructional

framework, including district-wide celebrations, school-based multicultural festivals, and educational outreach to individual classrooms.

If you have questions about the ESOL program, please contact Jeff Tamaroff, K-12 ELL Content Facilitator,

at 636-733-2139 or via email: [email protected]

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________ Special Education/Section 504/Homebound ________

Some Rockwood learners require differentiated services during their educational careers. The Office of Special Education, 504 and Homebound Services, collaborates with students, families and staff so students with special needs may realize their potential as part of our commitment to ensuring all students realize their potential. Students with an educational disability may access additional learning supports through special education with an Individualized Education Plan, an IEP. Other students may have a disability that limits their learning or another major life activity, such as hearing or walking. These students may have a Section 504 Accommodation Plan. Finally, some students experience short-term physical or mental impairments that interfere with their ability to attend school and receive support through homebound services. Special education services are provided by a wide array of professionals within the Rockwood School District through a partnership with the St. Louis County Special School District. These professionals include special education teachers, speech/language pathologists and occupational/physical therapists. A student qualifies for special education and related services when it is determined through evaluation that there is an educational disability that adversely affected educational performance and requires special education services. Policy 6140 – Services for Students with Disabilities The district does not have a general curriculum for students with disabilities. It is the policy of the district to comply with all relevant state and federal laws pertaining to students with disabilities. Therefore, the district and/or Special School District of St. Louis County will develop an individualized educational program (IEP) for each public school student with a disability who is entitled to special educational services pursuant to the Individual with Disabilities Education (IDEA), as amended and/or an accommodation plan (504 Plan) for students who are qualified pursuant to Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973.

Questions regarding special education, 504 accommodations, or homebound services can be directed to:

Dr. Jamie Smith Special Education/504/Homebound Coordinator Phone: (636) 733-2153 Email: [email protected]

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________ FAQs ________

1) What if I don’t have a computer with Internet access at home? Students have Chromebooks, but if internet access is an issue, please contact your child's school.

2) Will my student have a better chance to get his/her first choice of classes if we register on-line

before the deadline? No. All students who successfully complete the on-line registration process

during the registration window will be given the same priority. However, we do not advise waiting

until the last minute to register just in case there are technical difficulties.

3) What if my student does not register on-line during the registration process? If your student

does NOT register on time, the counselors will select his/her elective courses based upon class

availability, not necessarily your student’s preferences.

4) Can my student drop a music class or challenge class that he/she is automatically pre-enrolled in?

Yes, the student can drop a music class or challenge class that he/she no longer wishes to take by

writing the course(s) on the Course Selection form. The school counselor will make the change on

Infinite Campus to drop the class.

5) What if my student chooses NOT to take band, orchestra or choir in 7th grade, can he/she choose

to take it in 8th grade? Participation in the 7th grade band or orchestra program is mandatory in

order to participate in the 8th grade and high school programs. In the rare instance that someone has

studied privately, they may set up an audition with the instructor and the instrument/appropriate

playing level must be approved. Choir will allow students to join in 8th grade subject to an audition.

However, it is highly encouraged that students wishing to sing participate in the 7th grade program as

many skills are taught during this year that are needed to be successful in 8th grade choir. Participation

in orchestra must begin in elementary school.

6) Are language arts courses sequenced like math and science? Except for grade-level designation,

language arts courses are not as sequenced as math and science courses. This means a student might

take a regular language arts class in middle school and take an Honors course in high school. Though

this alternative would make the Honors course more difficult than taking the “challenge, honors, and

advanced placement path”.

7) Why are the World Language courses at the middle school split into a two-year sequence? Research

supports dividing the Level 1 world language curriculum into two years of sequential study for middle

school students. This enables the students to progress at an age-appropriate pace as they begin to

acquire the new language. Therefore, more time is devoted to world language development: reading,

writing, listening and speaking. Teachers are also able to engage students in activities designed

specifically for middle school world language students. Finally, research again supports that providing

middle school students with a two-year Level 1 study of a world language equips them to become

successful language learners at the high school level.

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8) Can my student take World Language in 7th grade and not in 8th grade or vice versa AND how

can he/she get high school credit? World Language classes are a two-year commitment, beginning

in the 7th grade and continuing through the 8th grade. In order to participate in the two-year sequential

program of study, students must begin in the 7th grade. If a student fails to begin world language study

in the 7th grade, he/she must wait until the 9th grade in order to begin sequential study of a language,

likely eliminating the opportunity to participate in Level V/AP.

9) When will I receive my schedule? You will receive your preliminary schedule during your school’s

summer orientation. At that time you will see what team you are on, who your teachers are, and

where to find your classes. You will receive a new schedule on the first day of school if any

adjustments had to be made.

10) My student has an IEP. How do I enroll my student in SSD classes? The counselors, in consultation

with students’ SSD case managers, will enroll students in the appropriate classes to make certain that

the student is receiving the SSD services outlined in each student’s IEP. It is not the responsibility of

the parent to enroll their student in SSD classes.

11) How do students on IEPs receive services at the middle school level? All students receive services

based on their individual needs as identified in their IEP. There is special education staff assigned to

middle schools to meet those needs. A transition IEP meeting will take place as necessary, or requested,

to share information regarding student needs as they move from elementary to middle school.

12) If my student begins Algebra 1 in 6th grade, will he/she have to travel to the high school in 8th grade

for math? Possibly. In any given year, there may not be enough students in each middle school to make

a class for Honors Algebra 2. If this is the case, a distance-learning model will be chosen with a teacher in

one school and cyber-access for the other students.

13) Do High School math courses taken during the middle school years provide an opportunity for a

weighted grade? No, not at the middle school level. Weighted grades only apply to high school

students and are not offered until Honors Algebra 2.

14) Are 6th graders in classes with 7th and 8th graders? Generally, if you are a 6th grader, you are in class

with only 6th graders. This is the same for 7th and 8th graders. However, due to special circumstances,

this could be slightly adjusted.

15) Do you have activities after school? Rockwood offers many clubs, organizations, and intramural

sports after school; you should visit your school website for specific activities.

16) Does Rockwood have a gifted program at the middle school level? Yes. The middle school gifted

program is called Academic Stretch. Academic Stretch is offered in conjunction with Compacted

Challenge Language Arts (CCLA). Students must qualify for the gifted program (through the Center

for Creative Learning) and be recommended for Challenge Language Arts in order to enroll in the

CCLA/Academic Stretch Block.

52

________ ROCKWOOD SCHOOL DISTRICT: GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS________

The minumum requirements for graduation are as follows and are in accordance with the requirements established by the State Board of Education:

SUBJECT AREA CREDITS

Language Arts

9th Grade Level Language Arts ............................................................................................................. 1 10th Grade Level Language Arts ............................................................................................................ 1 11th Grade Level Language Arts ............................................................................................................ 1 12th Grade Level Language Arts ............................................................................................................ 1 A speech proficiency must be met. See the high school course description guide for the complete list of approved courses to meet this requirement.

Social Studies

United States History or WG Honors United States History or WG AP U.S. History ............................. 1 World History or WG AP European History or WG AP World History .................................................... 1 United States Government or WG AP Government (full year) .............................................................. ½ Social Studies Elective .......................................................................................................................... ½ Economics and Personal Finance taken in Social Studies will meet the Personal Finance requirement and also a ½ credit of required Social Studies.

Mathematics ................................................................................................................................................. 3

Science ......................................................................................................................................................... 3

Fine Arts ....................................................................................................................................................... 1

Career and Technical Education (CTE) ..................................................................................................... 1

Personal Finance, if taken in CTE can meet: 1) the Personal Finance requirement or 2) as a ½ credit of CTE.

Physical Education

Personal Fitness & Wellness ................................................................................................................. ½ P.E. Elective .......................................................................................................................................... ½

Health Education

Health Education ................................................................................................................................... ½

Electives .................................................................................................................................................... 7½

Personal Finance ...........................................................................................................................................

Students must demonstrate mastery of state competencies for Personal Finance by passing one of the following courses listed below and by taking the proficiency exam:

- Personal Finance and Business – Business/CTE - Personal Finance – FACS/CTE Course - Economics and Personal Finance – Social Studies Course - WG AP Economics and Personal Finance – Social Studies Course (both semesters) – successful

completion of both - Test out of the Missouri Personal Finance Assessment (MoPFA) with 90% or higher (elective credit only) - TOTAL ........................................................................................................................................... 24

53

____LANGUAGE ARTS COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade Language Arts

6th Grade Language Arts Block or

6th Grade Challenge Language Arts Blocked or

6th Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts

Seventh Grade Language Arts

7th Grade Language Arts Block or

7th Grade Challenge Language Arts Block or

7th Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts

Eighth Grade Language Arts

8th Grade Language Arts Block or

8th Grade Challenge Language Arts Block or

8th Grade Compacted Challenge Language Arts

HIGH SCHOOL: 9 10 11 12

9th Grade Language Arts

9th Grade Language Arts OR

Honors 9th Language Arts* OR

Literature, Composition & Reading Strategies 1* OR

WG Advanced Language Arts Research/Presentation 1*

Journalism, Writing, and Reporting - 1 semester

10th Grade Language Arts

10th Grade Language Arts OR

Honors 10th Grade Language Arts* OR

Literature, Composition & Reading Strategies 2* OR

WG Advanced Language Arts Reseach / Presentation 2*

Creative Writing* - 1 Semester

11th Grade Language Arts

11th Grade Language Arts OR

Language, Communication & Compostion 1 OR

WG/AP English Language & Composition 1* OR

WG/AP English Literature & Composition*

Sports Literature and Writing* - 1 semester

Multicultural Literature* - 1 semester

Science Fiction Literature* - 1 semester

12th Grade

Language, Communication & Composition 2*- full year

CC Senior British & World Literature* - 1 semester or full year

CC Senior Composition - 1 semester

Senior Reader's / Writer's Workshop - 1 semester

*=Course requires a prerequisite

Questions may be directed to the Language Arts Curriculum Department at 636-733-2145

WG - weighted grade courseCC - approved for college creditAP - Advanced Placement

54

_____MATHEMATICS COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade Mathematics

6th Grade Math OR

Pre-Algebra

Seventh Grade Mathematics

Pre-Algebra OR

Foundations of Algebra

Eighth Grade Mathematics

Foundations of Algebra OR

Algebra I

HIGH SCHOOL:

9 10 11 12

Algebra 1

Geometry, WG Honors Geometry*

Algebra 2, WG Honors Algebra 2*

CC Algebra 3, Trigonometry, Statistics, Finite Math*

WG Pre-Calculus*

WG AP Calculus AB, WG AP Calculus BC*

Statistics*

WG AP Statistics*

*=Course requires a prerequisite

Students on an accelerated track may start at a different

55

____SCIENCE COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade Science

6th Grade Life Science OR

6th Grade Challenge Life Science

Seventh Grade Science

7th Grade Earth and Space Science OR

7th Grade Challenge Earth and Space Science

Eighth Grade Science

8th Grade Physical Science OR

8th Grade Challenge Physical Science

HIGH SCHOOL: 9 10 11 12

Biology

Honors Biology

Physical Science

Chemistry*

Honors Chemistry*

^Geoscience*

^Environmental Science*

^Human Anatomy and Physiology*

Authentic Science Research 1*

WG Authentic Science Research 2*

WG Authentic Science Research 3*

Biochemistry Applications*

Forensic Science*

WG AP Physics 1*

WG AP Physics 2*

WG AP Advanced Physics*

WG AP Biology*

WG AP Chemistry*

WG AP Environmental Science*

WG Concepts of Semi-Micro Qualitative Analysis & Organic

*=Course requires a prerequisite

^ Can be taken in 10th grade if also enrolled in Physical Science, Chemistry, or Honors Chemistry

Students may be required to complete summer work in

preparation for an AP or Honors course. The purpose of summer

56

____SOCIAL STUDIES COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade Social Studies

World History OR

Challenge World History

Seventh Grade Social Studies

World Geography OR

Challenge World Geography

Eighth Grade Social Studies

United States History OR

Challenge United States History

HIGH SCHOOL:

9 10 11 12

United States History1

WG Honors United States History1

Civil War and Reconstruction

World History2

WG AP World History2

WG AP European History2

Law and Justice

Economic and Personal Finance4

United States Government3

WG AP Government3

WG AP Economics & Personal Finance4

WG AP United States History1

WG AP Human Geography

Sociology

Psychology

WG AP Psychology

Contemporary Issues

Politics and Conflict in the Modern World

Questions may be directed to the Social Studies Curriculum Department at 636-733-2117

WG = Weighted grade courseAP = Advanced Placement

1=fulfills United States History requirement2=fulfills World History requirement3=fulfills United States Government requirement4=fulfills Personal Finance requirement

57

____WORLD LANGUAGE COURSE MAP____

Course 6 7 8 9 10 11 12

WORLD LANGUAGE ELECTIVES

Introduction to Classical Mythology^

Classical Roots^

FRENCH

Introduction to French

French 1 07

French 1 08*

French 1

French 2*

French 3 CC*

French 4 WG/CC*

French 5 WG/CC*

AP French Language and Culture WG/CC*

GERMAN

Introduction to German

German 1 07

German 1 08*

German 1

German 2*

German 3 CC*

German 4 WG/CC*

German 5 WG/CC*

AP German Language and Culture WG/CC*

LATIN

Latin 1

Latin 2*

Latin 3 CC*

Latin 4 WG/CC*

AP Latin*

Ancient Greek 1

Ancient Greek 2*

SPANISH

Introduction to Spanish

Spanish 1 07

Spanish 1 08*

Spanish 1

Spanish 2*

Spanish 3 CC*

Spanish 4 WG/CC*

AP Spanish 5 WG/CC*

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE

American Sign Language 1

American Sign Language 2*

*=Course requires a prerequisite

^=Course offered for elective credit

58

____JOURNALISM COURSE MAP____

HIGH SCHOOL: Journalism

9 10 11 12

Visual Journalism^

News Production*^^

Yearbook Production*^^

Video Production*^^

Introduction to Digital Media

Digital Media Production*^^

*=Course requires a prerequisite

^=Course satisfies 1/2 unit of CTE Requirement

^^=Course satisfies the CTE Requirement

59

____COMPUTER SCIENCE COURSE MAP____

HIGH SCHOOL: Computer Science

9 10 11 12

Fundamentals of App and Game Development

Introduction to Programming

Computer Networking Essentials

Website Programming and Development*

WG AP Computer Science*

WG C++ Programming Language*

*= Course Has a Prerequisite

NOTE – Courses can be taken in any order or combination

60

____INDUSTRIAL AND ENGINEERING TECHNOLOGY COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade Industrial Eng Tech

STEM Explorations

Exploring Materials Processing (LSMS only)

Seventh Grade Industrial Eng Tech

3D Design and Modeling

Computer Science 1: App and Game Development

Investigating Materials Processing (LSMS only)

Eighth Grade Industrial Eng Tech

Automation and Robotics

Computer Science 1: App and Game Development

Materials Processing (LSMS only)

HIGH SCHOOL:

9 10 11 12

9th Grade

Drafting 1

Drafing 2*

Architectural Drafting 1

Metal Processes ^

Wood Processes 1 ^

CC/WG Introduction to Engineering Design (PLTW Course) (TP)

Principles of Biomedical Sciences (PLTW Course)

10th Grade

Architectural Drafting 2

Wood Processes 2 ^*

CC/WG Principles of Engineering (PLTW Course) (TP)

CC/WG Digital Electronics (PLTW Course) (TP)*

WG/CC Aerospace Engineering (PLTW Course) ( TP)*

Human Body Systems (PLTW Course)*

11th Grade

CC/WG Computer Integrated Manufacturing (PLTW Course) (TP)*

CC/WG Civil Engineering and Architecture (PLTW Course) (TP)*

CC/WG Engineering Design & Development*

Medical Interventions*

12th Grade

CC/WG Biomedical Innovations^*

Questions to the STEM Curriculum Department at 636-733-2195

*-Course requires prerequisite

^ - Eureka High and/or Lafayette High offerings only

# - Rockwood Summit High offerings only

WG - Weighted grade courseCC - Approved for college creditTP - Tech PrepPLTW - Project Lead The Way

61

____VISUAL ARTS COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL

Sixth Grade Visual Arts

6th Grade Art Studio

6th Grade Design Studio (not offered at LSMS)

Seventh Grade Visual Arts

7th Grade Art Studio

7th Grade Design Studio (not offered at LSMS)

Eighth Grade Visual Arts

8th Grade Art Studio

8th Grade Design Studio (not offered at LSMS)

8th Grade Art Fundamentals Full Year

HIGH SCHOOL

9 10 11 12

Art Fundamentals

Painting 1*

Painting 2*

Drawing 1*

Drawing 2*

Graphic Design 1*

Graphic Design 2*

Photography 1*

Photography 2*

Ceramics 1*

Ceramics 2*

Sculpture 1*

Sculpture 2*

WG AP Art Studio 1*

WG AP Art Studio 2*

WG AP Art History

World Arts

Note: Art Fundamentals must be successfully completed

*= one or more prerequisites required

62

____MUSIC COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade Music

Beginning Band

Intermediate Orchestra*

Treble Choir*

Mixed Choir*

Seventh Grade Music

Cadet Band*

Cadet Orchestra*

Treble Choir*

Mixed Choir*

Eighth Grade Music

Concert Band*

Concert Orchestra*

Treble Choir*

Mixed Choir*

HIGH SCHOOL:

9 10 11 12

Concert Band *

Symphonic Band *

Jazz Band *

Treble/Mixed/Bass Choir*

Treble/Concert/Bass Chorale*

Treble/Mixed/Bass Chamber Choir*

Show Choir *

Chamber Orchestra *

Concert Orchestra *

Symphonic Orchestra *

Guitar 1

Guitar 2*

Guitar Ensemble*

WG AP Music Theory

* By Audition and /or Permission by Director Only

Questions may be directed to the Fine Arts Curriculum Department at 636-733-2147

WG - Weighted grade courseAP - Advanced Placement

Where two performance -based choirs are listed within a box, both have a common curriculum but differ in the voice parts included in each course. The voicings for each course are listed in the course description.

Sudents may be required to complete summer work in preparation for an AP course. The purpose of summer work is to enhance a student's ability to start on the first day of class engaged in class discussions. Expectations for summer work will be communicated in the spring semester.

63

____THEATRE ARTS COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade Theatre Arts

Introduction to Theatre Arts

Seventh Grade Theatre Arts

Theatre Arts Workshop

Eighth Grade Theatre Arts

Theatre Arts Workshop

Theatre Arts Studio*

HIGH SCHOOL:

9 10 11 12

Acting 1

Acting 2*

Tech Theatre 1

Tech Theatre 2*

Advanced Studio Theatre*

Studio Directing*

Questions may be directed to the Fine Arts Curriculum Department at 636-733-2147

*-Course requires a prerequisite

64

____SPEECH COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade Speech

Introduction to Theatre Arts

Seventh Grade Speech

Theatre Arts Workshop

Eighth Grade Speech

Theatre Arts Workshop

Theatre Arts Studio*

HIGH SCHOOL:

9 10 11 12

Public Speaking

Competitive Speaking 1^

Competitive Speaking 2*

Oral Communication

Advanced Oral Communication*

Debate*

Introduction to Digital Media Production

Digital Media Production^*

Radio Production*

Questions may be directed to the Speech Curriculum Department at 636-733-2145

*=Course requires a prerequisite^ =May be taken more than once

65

____PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade PE/Health

Physical Education/Health

Seventh Grade PE/Health

Physical Education/Health

Eighth Grade PE/Health

Physical Education/Health

HIGH SCHOOL:

9 10 11 12

Personal Fitness & Wellness

9 10 11 12

Basic Aquatic Skills*

Advanced Aquatic Skills and Life Guard Training**

Beginning Strength Training*

Advanced Strength Training*

Aerobic Training & Conditioning*

Lifetime/Recreational Sports*

Team Sports A, B, & C*

The following courses are offered as electives but do not fulfill the Physical Education

requirement.

First Aid/Responding to Emergencies

Driver Education

This course fulfills the Health Education graduation requirement.

Health Education

Questions may be directed to the Physical Education/Health Curriculum Department at 636-733-2115

Note: Enrollment in this course is strongly recommended in the 9th grade year. This course is required before a student can take any of the following courses.

High School Students who want to take more than one Physical Education course during any one semester must have the Physical Education department chairperson's permission.* Course requires a prerequisite** May be taken more than twice for further certification. To be eligible for Lifeguard Training, the student must be 15 years of age on or before the final scheduled class session.

66

____FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade FACS

Exploring FACS Life Skills

quarter elective

Seventh Grade FACS

7th & 8th Grade FACS Life Skills 1

semester elective

Eighth Grade FACS

8th Grade FACS Life Skills 2

semester elective

HIGH SCHOOL:

9 10 11 12

Food Fundamentals (9-12)

Food Science

Baking and Pastry Arts*

Culinary Arts 1 (AC)*

Culinary Arts 2 (AC)*

Fashion Fundamentals 1

Fashion Fundamentals 2*

Advanced Creative Fashion 3*

Fashion Design and Merchandising

Child Development 1 (AC)

Child Development 2 (AC)*

Family Relations

Housing and Interior Design

Personal Finance

Life After High School

*=Course requires prerequisite

Questions may be directed to the Career and Technical Education Curriculum Department at 636-733-2116

AC = Articulated Credit

67

____BUSINESS EDUCATION COURSE MAP____

MIDDLE SCHOOL:

Sixth Grade Business Ed

Keyboarding and Input Technologies

Seventh Grade Business Ed

Business and Information Technologies

Eighth Grade Business Ed

Digital Information Technologies

HIGH SCHOOL:

9 10 11 12

Computer Applications for Business (AC)

Creating Career Success

Multimedia Communications

Graphic Media Communications*

Audio Video Communications*

Web Design and Communication*

Personal Finance and Business

Accounting (AC)

Sports & Entertainment Management

Business Management Processes (Pending BOE Approval)

Business Management and Entrepreneurship

Business and Personal Law: Knowing Your Rights

Business Internship/Cooperative Career Education (CCE)

*=Course requires a prerequisite

Questions may be directed to the Career and Technical Education Department at 636-733-2116

AC- Articulated Credit

68

________ COURSE SELECTION COMPANION GUIDE ________

"What do you want to do after high school?" That is a question that is asked of our students a multitude of times over

the course of their public school education. It's a question that is not easily answered, due to the enormous number

of possible post-secondary alternatives that are currently available to our students. Technological advances and global

competition have transformed the nature of both education and work. Our students need to be prepared for, and

informed of, the reality of several job and career changes over the course of their lifetimes. They need to understand

that they will have to continually update their knowledge and skills, which may require additional training and/or

education.

The Rockwood School District offers a wide array of courses and experiences to its students. As students review course

offerings and activities, we hope to guide them in choosing coursework and experiences that are relevant to their

future goals. Our school counselors, along with our teaching and Partners In Education staff, work carefully with

students to help them choose a course of study that will meet students' post-secondary needs in both knowledge and

rigor.

Many studies investigate the issue of career satisfaction. It is well-researched that people who work in careers that

they like and are interested in are the happiest and most productive employees. In planning for post-secondary goals,

students should start with examining where their own interests and talents lie. Using the results of the interest

inventory from Missouri Connections as a guide to general career interests, students can begin to create their personal

plan of study for their high school years and beyond. Professional school counselors and other district personnel,

guide students and parents in this important planning process. The planning process is critical to a student not only

meeting graduation requirements, but also to taking the coursework that will ultimately lead him/her to their post-

secondary goals.

How to Use the Companion Guide

This companion guide is an effort to help students make the connection between opportunities offered during high

school and those offered following graduation. It is one type of resource to guide students toward making better,

more informed course selections based on students' interests and future career goals. The Companion Guide uses

career clusters as a model for planning. Using career clusters does not lock or track students into one career area. It

is instead a more comprehensive way to explore an area of stated interest, as it includes not only coursework but also

extra-curricular activities and experiences.

Included in the Companion Guide is a chart that explains the connection between career paths, career clusters, and

career pathways. Students may discover which career cluster seems to fit them best by taking the Missouri

Connections interest, skills and values inventories. The companion guide explains each career cluster, the careers

within that cluster according to education level, future jobs and careers within the St. Louis and Missouri regions, and

current pay rates/salaries for many careers. Sample templates of personal plans of study based upon specific career

clusters are included for students to refer to as they work on their own personal plans of study. Links to career

planning resources are also included.

You may access the Course Selection Companion Guide online at

http://www.rsdmo.org/guidanceandcounseling/Documents/Companiondoc.pdf.

69

MIDDLE SCHOOL ONLINE COURSE REGISTRATION

What? 2018-19 Online Course Registration

Where? Infinite Campus Portal https://campus.rsdmo.org/campus/portal/rockwood.jsp

When? January 19, 2018 @ 7:00 AM through January 29, 2018 @ 4:00 PM

Needed Items: Course Selection Sheet, Campus Portal Account (student or parent)

Log On

Log on to Portal with a valid User Name and Password.

Student: User Name is the student’s first initial of first name, entire last name and last three digits of student

number.

Parent: Log on and select the student for whom courses are being selected.

Course Search

Click the Registration link (top of menu at left).

Click the Course Search tab.

Click the GO button to display all courses.

To search for a particular course, enter a portion of the course name and click the GO button.

Rules for Course Selection

Courses automatically save as they are selected.

All online requests are treated equally, with no preference order.

Select only elective courses. Core courses are pre-selected for each student.

Request a Course

Click the course name to select the course.

Gr. 7 & 8 students: Choose 4 semester courses -or- 2 semester courses + 1 year-long course -or- 2 year-long courses.

Gr. 6 students: Choose 8 quarter courses -or- 4 quarter courses and 1 year-long course -or- 2 year-long courses.

Gr. 6, 7 & 8 students: Choose 2 alternate courses in addition to the above course selections.

Request This Course button: Use to select elective courses. (scroll down to display buttons)

Request As An Alternate button: Use to select alternate courses.

Remove a Requested Course

Under the Requested Courses heading, select the course name

and click the Drop This Request button.

Print Request Summary

Click the Print Request Summary button to print the request.

Sign and submit the form to the school counselor.

Help

Request assistance by sending an email message to: [email protected]

70

Rockwood School District Concert Performance Expectation

for Students Enrolled in Elective Music Courses

Concert performances allow unique opportunities for students to demonstrate mastery of knowledge and skills in

their music class. They are the culminating event to several weeks of teaching and learning. Teachers use these

performances to make summative assessments of student performance, which are then recorded as a portion of

student grades on a report card.

These performances cannot be replicated in the classroom or repeated at another time. Music is a form of

communication—the musician interprets the ideas of a composer and communicates them to an audience. The

audience supplies feedback through the atmosphere of the performance environment and through their

applause. That feedback is an important form of evaluation for a musician.

It is an expectation that all students enrolled in a performing ensemble are present and participate in all scheduled

concerts. Within five school days of the announcement of the concert schedule, parents should alert the music teacher

of any unavoidable conflicts.

Students with an excused absence from school on the day of the performance may be excused from

participation. A listing of excusable absences appears in the district’s Policies, Regulations, Procedures and

Consequences Handbook.

Students excused from a concert will not receive a score for the standards assessed during the performance.

Concert performance may comprise up to 20% of the academic portion of students’ grades for the semester.

Unexcused absences from concert performances will result in no academic credit awarded for that

performance.

In the event of an unexcused absence from a performance, or multiple excused absences, the future

eligibility of the student in the class will be assessed.

Your signature below indicates you are aware of the expectations for concert performance related to this course.

Student Signature:

Parent Signature:

Date:

71