CMS Course Guide
General Information
- Welcome
- Contact Information
- General Information
- Middle School Program
- Sample Schedules
- UIL Eligibility
Welcome
Dear Crandall ISD Students and Parents,
In Crandall ISD, we want you to have a comprehensive learning experience that prepares you for success. The CISD course guide will assist students and parents in thinking about the future and selecting courses that will meet their needs.
Counselors will guide in completing a plan based on your interests and talents, and will review that plan with you annually. When you are unsure of course components you may refer to the course descriptions and/or ask your teachers.
Please make your course selections carefully. The courses you select will prepare you for your bright future.
Enjoy your Middle School experience!
Sincerely,
Michael Starling- Principal
Contact Information
General Information
This guide assists Crandall ISD students in making course selections and planning their academic futures while in middle school. A variety of counseling services is offered at all CISD schools. Counselors work with students, parents, and teachers to select appropriate courses that are challenging and meet grade level requirements. Some courses listed in this guide may not actually be offered due to low enrollment. Because of scheduling conflicts and classes closing, a student may not be able to register for every course he/ she plans to take during a semester. For this reason, the student should have some alternate courses selected in case the first choice is not available.
State Assessment
The STAAR test, State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness evaluates student learning based on the state-required curriculum—the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). Students are tested in the areas of 7th grade Math and Reading, 8th grade Math, Reading, Science, and Social Studies. By law, Texas students must pass the EOC tests in Algebra I, Biology, English I, English II and US History in order to receive their high school diploma.
Crandall ISD Grading Guidelines
Crandall ISD Graduation Requirements
Definitions
- ARD Committee: Admission, Review and Dismissal Committee
- Credit: Unit assigned to a high school course of study. A student must earn twenty- six (26) credits to graduate. Some two semester courses receive 1 credit while one semester courses receive one-half credit. Some Career and Technology courses can receive up to three.
- Elective: A course that a student chooses to take, although it is not specifically required.
- End-of-Course (EOC) Exam: This is the state accountability test given in the spring for the following high school courses: Algebra I, Biology, English I and English II, US History.
- Honors Courses: Honors courses are higher level, more in-depth classes within a subject area. Successful completion of an Honors level course prepares students for enrollment into high school AP (Advanced Placement), Dual Credit and OnRamps level courses.
- MAP (Measure of Academic Progress) Testing: MAP is a nationally normed, adaptive achievement test for students in second- through ninth-grade administered in September, December and April. MAP is a national test that compares students to one another to see how each student learns, as we know every student learns in his or her own way.
- Prerequisite: A requirement that must be met in order to take a specific course.
- Required Course: A specific course that a student must take and pass to be promoted to the next grade and ultimately to graduate from high school.
- Semester: An eighteen-week segment of the thirty-six week school year.
- STAAR: State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness. The state accountability exams given for courses other than high school courses are considered STAAR while the 5 high school courses tests for accountability purposes are EOC’s.
- Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS): The statewide curriculum mandated by the State Board of Education
Middle School Program
CMS CONNECT NAVIGATION
Crandall Middle School welcomes new students with CMS Connect. New students will be welcomed during Navigation the first three weeks of enrollment. Their Navigation teacher will walk them through SEL lessons, Skyward, emails, and help them get more acquainted with the campus expectations. The teacher utilizes CMS Connect Captains to assist students with technology, ID badges, building tours, etc.
Who are CMS Connect Captains?
CMS Connect Captains are student-leaders from each grade level who participate in a specialized advisory class to help students who enroll at CMS after the year begins.
CMS Connect Captains will:
● Welcome new students to CMS throughout the year
● Participate in specialized navigation specifically for helping new students adjust to CMS
● Lead tours, answer questions, and model exemplary responsibility and character
● Ensure new students have a friend to sit with at lunch
● Help new students understand technology tools, campus rules, etc.
CMS Connect Captain Expectations:
Students must:
● Wear student ID badge at all times
● Greet/welcome all new students
● Have a passing grade in all classes
● Have a positive attitude
● Have good attendance
● Be on time to class
● Be in district approved dress code at all times
As a CMS Connect Captain, I agree to the following:
● I will abide by all the Rules and Regulations listed above
● I will serve as a positive role model for my peers
● I will be respectful to school personnel and other students
● I will be responsible and trustworthy and behave in a mature manner at all times
● I will follow all school policies and procedures
● I will stay in my assigned area
● I will have school work or book to keep me busy in the event of down time
● I will not use my devices (phones/tablets/ipads/headphones,etc.) during navigation
**ISS/OSS referrals may result in immediate removal of CMS Connect responsibilities which will require a navigation class schedule change.
COURSES TAKEN IN MIDDLE SCHOOL FOR HIGH SCHOOL CREDIT
Credit is NOT granted until BOTH semesters are completed AT middle school. Students cannot complete first semester at middle school and second semester at summer school. If Algebra 1 is taken in 8th grade, three years of math above Algebra 1 MUST be completed.
HONORS COURSES
Students who request enrollment in an honors course should expect a more rigorous class, increased workload, problem based learning and bigger emphasis on writing and explaining answers. They will be held to a strict late work policy and should expect to move at a quicker pace in the course.
Please note, students in honors classes are receiving instruction at a much quicker pace and sometimes above grade level. Students and parents should understand an “A” in an advanced class indicates exceptional understanding of the content covered. Additional time, increased work ethic, and tutoring may be necessary to maintain an “A” average.
DYSLEXIA & RELATED DISORDERS
Students identified by the Dyslexia Services Department are eligible for certain courses and other support services. Questions or concerns should be brought to the attention of the diagnostician, school counselor, or principal.
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)
CISD offers numerous ESL courses and support services. Placement and eligibility for ESL services and courses is determined by a home language survey, referral to the Language Assessment Center for evaluation, and LPAC Committee recommendations.
SPECIAL EDUCATION AND SECTION 504
Special Education offers specially designed instruction and a full continuum of services to meet a variety of student needs. Programs range from support in general education classrooms to fully self-contained learning environments. A student’s graduation plan, developed by the ARD/IEP Committee, determines how the student will meet credit and curriculum requirements of the state and district for graduation.
GIFTED AND TALENTED PROGRAM
Students who have been identified as Gifted and Talented (GT) through the CISD identification process are served through the honors and advanced classes.
Sample Schedules
| 7th Grade Sample Schedule |
|
English Language Arts and Reading 7 |
| Mathematics 7 or Pre-Algebra |
| Science 7 or Honors Science 7 |
| Texas History or Honors Texas History |
| Physical Education |
| Fine Art |
| Career Explorations |
| 8th Grade Sample Schedule |
|
English Language Arts and Reading 8 |
| Pre-Algebra or Algebra 1 (high school credit) |
| Science 8 or Honors Science 8 |
| American History or Honors American History |
| 8th Grade Elective |
| 8th Grade Elective |
| 8th Grade Elective |
UIL Eligibility
Advanced Classes Identified for No-Pass, No-Play Exemption
Texas Education Agency (TEA)/University Interscholastic League (UIL) Academic Requirements (No-Pass, No-Play)
As noted in the Crandall ISD Student Handbook, students who receive grades below 70 at the end of a grading period in any academic class may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three school weeks. However, if a student receives a grade below 70, but above 59, at the end of the grading period in an Advanced Placement (AP) or a designated Honors course in English language arts, mathematics, science, social studies, economics, or languages other English, the student remains eligible for participation in all extracurricular activities. A student who receives a grade below 60 at the end of grading period in any advanced or honors class may not participate in extracurricular activities for at least three school weeks.
If a student is enrolled in a state-approved course that requires demonstration of the mastery of an essential knowledge and skills in public performance and the student receives a grade below 70 in any course at the end of the grading period, the student may participate in a performance so long as the general public is invited.
The following courses are the Crandall ISD advanced courses which are eligible for the No-Pass, No-Play Exemption
- Honors Courses: All
- Advanced Placement Courses: All
The following courses are fully exempt from No Pass, No Play
- Dual Credit: All
- Ed Lab: All
Course Offerings & Descriptions
7th Grade
Language Arts
Grade 7 Language Arts - 0107
Provides the student with knowledge of the structure and patterns of language. Usage skills develop the student's ability to speak and write effectively. Instruction in written communication focuses on the development of well-planned, coherent compositions written for a variety of audiences and purposes. Reading skills include vocabulary development, comprehension, organization, and study skills. Research skills are introduced.
Grade 7 Language Arts Honors - 0117
Designed for highly motivated students with above grade level proficiency in language arts. Communication skills are reinforced as the student improves proficiency in sentence structure and learns the components of a well-developed paragraph through a process approach to writing. A more advanced higher level of literary analysis and study skills is emphasized in the study of literature. Grammar, spelling, vocabulary instruction, and research skills are emphasized. This course assists in preparing students for the challenges offered by Advanced Placement and Dual Credit in high school through sustained habits necessary for success in these advanced courses.
Possible career objectives for students with Language Arts training: Actor, Advertising Copywriter, Business Administrator, Court Reporter, Editor, Film, Radio and TV, Columnist, Teacher, Industry/Business Writer, Critic, Blogger, and Politician.
Math
Grade 7 Math - 0207
Focal points in mathematics at grade seven are number and operations; proportionality; expressions, equations, and relationship; measurement and data; and personal financial literacy. Number and operations will continue to build on prior grades learning with an additional focus on operation fluency with positive and negative fractions and decimals. Proportionality topics continue from 6th grade math with additional emphasis on geometric ratios and proportional relationships in probability and statistics. Expressions, equations, and relationship concepts includes representing linear relationships using verbal descriptions, tables, graphs, and equations that simplify to the form y=mx+b; and representing and solving geometric problems; using one-variable equations and inequalities. Measurement and data will use statistical representations to analyze data. Personal financial literacy will develop an economic way of thinking and problem solving useful in one’s life as a knowledgeable consumer and investor. The mathematical process standards describe ways in which students are expected to engage in all math content. Process standards expectations include use problem solving strategies, select appropriate tools, and effectively communicate mathematical ideas, reasoning, and their implications using multiple representations; analyze mathematical relationships to connect and communicate mathematical ideas; and display, explain, or justify mathematical ideas and arguments using precise mathematical language in written or oral communication.
Grade 7 Pre-Algebra - 0217
This course is designed to prepare students for entry into Honors Algebra I and to meet the needs of the district’s gifted and talented mathematics students. All of grade 8 Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills are instructed to prepare students for Algebra I Honors. See the eighth-grade course description for concept details. The primary focal points in Pre-Algebra include algebraic representations to represent proportional situations; using algebraic thinking to describe the relationships between quantities; and using statistical procedures to describe data.
Possible career objectives for students with adequate mathematics training: Accounting, Actuary, Architect, Banker, Business, Computer Science, Data Processor, Engineer, Financial Analyst, Physicist, Pre-medicine, Science/Social Science Research, Government Agencies, Statistician, Systems Analyst, Teacher, Salesperson, and Investment.
Science
Grade 7 Science - 0307
Focuses on life on planet Earth. This course stresses the interrelationships and interdependence between living organisms and the physical, chemical, and earth science world. Curriculum follows a coordinated thematic approach. Learning in each of these topics will be accomplished through the presentation of complex concepts and explanations of science related phenomena and additional laboratory activities. The students are encouraged to do a science research project reinforcing the use the scientific method as a problem solving approaching daily life.
Grade 7 Science Honors - 0317
Designed to meet the needs of gifted and advanced students, this course focuses on life on planet Earth. It stresses the interrelationships and interdependence between living organisms and the physical, chemical, and earth science world. The sequence of the course follows a coordinated thematic approach. Enrichment in each of the topics will be accomplished through the presentation of more complex concepts. This course assists in preparing students for the challenges offered by the Advanced Placement and Dual Credit programs through sustained habits necessary for success.
Possible career objectives for students with adequate science training: Biologist, Geologist, Medical Professions, Mining, Museum Curator, Public Health, Environmental Protection, Game Management, Lab Technician, Industrial Chemist, Microbiologist, Physicist, Forestry, Park Services, Research, Teacher, Agriculture, Zoo/Marine Biologist, Pharmacist, Forensic Science, Medical Technician, Engineering, and Meteorologist.
Social Studies
Grade 7 Texas History - 0407
This course is designed to help students develop an understanding and appreciation of the history and geography of Texas as well as the state's cultural heritage from exploration to the present.
Grade 7 Texas History Honors - 0417
Designed to meet the needs of the district’s gifted and advanced students. Students will develop an understanding and appreciation of the history and geography of Texas as well as the state’s cultural heritage from exploration and settlement to the present. This course assists in preparing students for the challenges offered by the Advanced Placement and Dual Credit programs through sustained habits necessary for success.
Possible career objectives for students with adequate social studies training: Anthropologist, Archivist, Armed Forces, Journalist, Foreign Service, Government Service, Historian, Writer, Psychologist, Sociologist, Archaeologist, Curator, Economic Advisor, Law Enforcement, Cartographer, Intelligence, Teacher, Politician/ Political Analyst, Social Worker, and Welfare Programs.
8th Grade
Language Arts
Grade 8 Language Arts - 0108
Provides written communication skills as the major focus for eighth grade language arts students, including practice with narrative, descriptive, persuasive, and informative compositions using a process approach to writing. Reading and literary skills emphasized in eighth grade address critical and analytical thinking. Oral communication and study skills are applied through appropriate activities. Research skills are strengthened through varied activities.
Grade 8 Language Arts Honors - 0118
Designed to meet the needs of advanced students in language arts, this course focuses on integrated reading, writing, speaking, and listening that will allow in-depth study of the total communication process. Emphasis is placed on using interpretive reading skills for stimulating thinking and developing ideas for writing multi-level descriptive, narrative, persuasive, and informational compositions. Grammar, spelling and vocabulary are taught through application. Research skills are strengthened through varied activities. This course assists in preparing students for the challenges offered by Advanced Placement and Dual Credit in high school through sustained habits necessary for success in these advanced courses.
Possible career objectives for students with Language Arts training: Actor, Advertising Copywriter, Business Administrator, Court Reporter, Editor, Film, Radio and TV, Columnist, Teacher, Industry/Business Writer, Critic, Blogger, and Politician.
Math
Grade 8 Pre-Algebra - 0208
Focal points in mathematics in grade eight are number and operations; proportionality; expressions, equations, and relationship; two-dimensional shapes; measurement and data; and personal financial literacy. Number and operations will continue to build on prior grades learning with an additional focus on sets of real numbers and scientific notation. Proportionality topics continue to emphasize geometric ratios with a deeper emphasis on proportional and non- proportional relationships involving slope and developing the foundational concepts of functions. Geometric concepts continue to develop in expressions, equations, and relationships through the use of one-variable equations and inequalities in problem situations. The foundational concepts of linear equations in the form y = mx+b continues to develop and include the concept of simultaneous linear equations. Two-dimensional shapes will develop transformational geometry concepts, measurement and data will use statistical procedures to describe data. Personal financial literacy will develop an economic way of thinking and problem solving useful in one’s life as a knowledgeable consumer and investor. The mathematical process standards describe ways in which students are expected to engage in all math content. Process standards expectations include use problem solving strategies, select appropriate tools, and effectively communicate mathematical ideas, reasoning, and their implications using multiple representations; analyze mathematical relationships to connect and communicate mathematical ideas; and display, explain, or justify mathematical ideas and arguments using precise mathematical language in written or oral communication. This course is followed with Algebra I or Pre-AP Algebra 1 in the ninth grade.
Grade 8 Algebra 1 - 0209 (High School Credit: 1.0)
Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra
In Algebra I Honors, students will build on the knowledge and skills from mathematics in Grades 6-8, which provide a foundation in linear relationships, number and operations, and proportionality. Students will study linear, quadratic, and exponential functions and their related transformations, equations, and associated solutions. Students will connect functions and their associated solutions in both mathematical and real-world situations. Students will use technology to collect and explore data and analyze statistical relationships. In addition, students will study polynomials of degree one and two, radical expressions, sequences, and laws of exponents. Students will generate and solve linear systems with two equations and two variables and will create new functions through transformations. The Honors Algebra I course includes the same course of study designed for Algebra I. In addition, students will develop advanced problem solving and symbol manipulation skills. Honors students will be expected to take course concepts to advanced levels of development, understanding, and justification. Honors assignments and assessments will be designed to model AP exam formatting. This course will require a STAAR End of Course Exam. Students successfully completing Algebra I Honors prior to entering grade 9 are strongly encouraged to complete four additional years of math in grades 9-12.
Possible career objectives for students with adequate mathematics training: Accounting, Actuary, Architect, Banker, Business, Computer Science, Data Processor, Engineer, Financial Analyst, Physicist, Pre-medicine, Science/Social Science Research, Government Agencies, Statistician, Systems Analyst, Teacher, Salesperson, and Investment.
Science
Grade 8 Science - 0308
Focuses on a study of the Earth and solar system and how living systems, chemistry, and physics interact to form our exosphere. The sequence of the course follows a coordinated thematic approach. In addition to daily learning experiences related to content and laboratory-oriented activities, the students will be encouraged to do a science research project. This project is intended to increase the student's appreciation of science and reinforce the use of the scientific method as a problem-solving approach to daily life.
Grade 8 Science Honors - 0318
Designed to meet the needs of gifted and advanced students. This course focuses on a study of the Earth and solar system and how living systems, chemistry, and physics interact to form our exosphere. The sequence of the course follows a coordinated thematic approach. In addition to daily learning experiences related to content and laboratory oriented activities, the students will be required to complete a science research project. This project is intended to increase the student's appreciation of science and reinforce the use of the scientific method as a problem- solving approach in daily life. This course assists in preparing students for the challenges offered by the Advanced Placement and Dual Credit programs through sustained habits necessary for success.
Possible career objectives for students with adequate science training: Biologist, Geologist, Medical Professions, Mining, Museum Curator, Public Health, Environmental Protection, Game Management, Lab Technician, Industrial Chemist, Microbiologist, Physicist, Forestry, Park Services, Research, Teacher, Agriculture, Zoo/Marine Biologist, Pharmacist, Forensic Science, Medical Technician, Engineering, and Meteorologist.
Social Studies
Grade 8 American History (U.S. History) - 0407
This course is a detailed study of United States history from the early colonial period through Reconstruction. Students will read and interpret primary and secondary source documents, research major themes and/or develop creative projects for historical periods covered. Knowledge of the founding documents will be stressed as well as the skills and attitudes of responsible citizenship.
Grade 8 American History (U.S. History) Honors - 0417
Designed to meet the needs of the district’s gifted and advanced students, this course is a study of United States History from the early Colonial period through Reconstruction. Students will be required to read and interpret primary and secondary source documents, sharpen writing and research skills and/ or to develop creative projects for historical periods covered. This course assists in preparing students for the challenges offered by the Advanced Placement and Dual Credit programs through sustained habits necessary for success.
Possible career objectives for students with adequate social studies training: Anthropologist, Archivist, Armed Forces, Journalist, Foreign Service, Government Service, Historian, Writer, Psychologist, Sociologist, Archaeologist, Curator, Economic Advisor, Law Enforcement, Cartographer, Intelligence, Teacher, Politician/ Political Analyst, Social Worker, and Welfare Programs.
Career & Technology
Career & Technical Education (CTE) offers an opportunity for students to learn skills they may use in high school, in college, in a career after graduation, and/or as a financial means to help further their education. CTE blends academics and career preparation to produce well-rounded graduates ready for the opportunities of the world. CTE classes provide exposure to career-focused content, incorporate hands-on curriculum and connect to CISD high school Career & Technical Education programs of study.
General Employability Skills (High School Credit: 1.0)
-Grade Placement 7
This course provides students with knowledge of the prerequisite skills for general employment as well as the means of obtaining those skills. Employability skills include fundamentals of maintenance of personal appearance and grooming. The course also includes the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that allow employees to get along with their co-workers, make important work-related decisions, and become strong members of the work team. Discovering job possibilities that link skills, abilities, interests, values, needs, and work environment preferences is a part of the process of obtaining employability skills and abilities and is experiential learning that takes place over time.
Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (High School Credit: 1.0)
-Grade Placement 8
Principles of Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources will allow students to develop knowledge and skills regarding career and educational opportunities, personal development, globalization, industry standards, details, practices and expectations.
Principles of Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications (High School Credit: 1.0)
-Grade Placement 8
The goal of this course is for the student to understand arts, audio/video technology, and communications systems. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.
Business Information Management l (High School Credit: 1.0)
-Grade Placement 8
In Business Information Management I, students implement personal and interpersonal skills to strengthen individual performance in the workplace and in society and make a successful transition to the workforce and postsecondary education. Students apply technical skills to address business applications of emerging technologies, create word-processing documents, develop a spreadsheet, formulate a database, and make an electronic presentation using appropriate software.
Introduction to Culinary Arts (High School Credit: 1.0)
-Grade Placement 8
Introduction to Culinary Arts will emphasize the principles of planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling the management of a variety of food service operations. The course will provide insight into the operation of a well-run restaurant. Introduction to Culinary Arts will provide insight into food production skills, various levels of industry management, and hospitality skills. This is an entry level course for students interested in pursuing a career in the food service industry. This course is offered as a classroom and laboratory-based course.
Fine Arts
The Fine Arts department at CMS offers opportunities for students to, explore creativity and expression through two main avenues: visuaI and performance arts. Students may choose Band, Choir, Dance and Theater. Members of our performing arts organizations strive for excellence in group and individual performances. The utmost standard is held in our conduct and academic standings as well as our leadership and reputation as campus organizations. The end result of our programs are more than great artists. We desire to produce well-rounded students who can apply the concepts of discipline, teamwork and leadership in a wide cross-section of their lives for years to come. One Fine Arts Couse is Required by the Texas Education Agency for every student in grades 6-8.
Music
Beginning Band
-Grade Placement 7
0860-Flute
0861-Clarinet
0867-Saxophone
0868-Trumpet
0866-Horn
0863-Euphonium/Tuba
0862-Trombone
0865-Percussion
This course is designed to teach the basic fundamentals of playing a band instrument. Areas of focus will include characteristic tone, tonality, meter, rhythm, form, articulation dynamics, balance, notation/terminology, melody/line, harmony, scales/patterns, posture, hand position, and technique. Each student will provide his/her own instrument for this class with the exception of horn, euphonium, tuba, and large percussion instruments, which will be provided by the school for a small fee. Students will perform in concerts outside the school day during the school year. Students will have the opportunity to perform at a solo festival and concert festival in the spring. Limited outside of school rehearsals and performances will be required. No previous musical experience is necessary. This is a full-year course.
Music Possible career objectives for students with talent in the fine arts- Broadcasting, Conductor, Critic, Music Teacher, Publisher, Vocalist, Music Editor, Concert Promoter, Composer, Instrument Repair, Historian, Music Director, Instrumentalist, Music Arrangement, Musical Theater, Music Sales, Music Therapist, Band Member, and Band Director.
Band Concert - 0870
-Grade Placement 7-8
This course provides an opportunity for students to continue instrumental development at an intermediate or intermediate advanced level. Through appropriate literature for this level students will focus on continued development of characteristic tone, tonality, meter, rhythm, form, articulation, dynamics, balance, notation/terminology, melody/line, harmony, scales/patterns, posture, hand position, and technique. Students will perform at concerts on and off campus including UIL competitions. Students may participate in individual activities such as solo and ensemble contest and All-Region auditions. Student attendance at rehearsals and performances outside of school will be required. This is a full-year course.
Band Symphonic - 0880
-Grade Placement 7-8
This course provides an opportunity for students to continue instrumental development at an advanced level. Through appropriate literature for this level students will focus on continued development of characteristic tone, tonality, meter, rhythm, form, articulation, dynamics, balance, notation/terminology, melody/line, harmony, scales/patterns, posture, hand position, and technique. Students will perform at concerts on and off campus including UIL competitions. Students may participate in individual activities such as solo and ensemble contest and All-Region auditions. Student attendance at rehearsals and performances outside of school will be required. This is a full-year course.
Band Wind Ensemble - 0874
-Grade Placement 7-8
This course provides an opportunity for students to continue instrumental development to a mastery level. Through appropriate literature for this level students will focus on continued development of characteristic tone, tonality, meter, rhythm, form, articulation, dynamics, balance, notation/terminology, melody/line, harmony, scales/patterns, posture, hand position, and technique. Students will perform at concerts on and off campus including UIL competitions. Students may participate in individual activities such as solo and ensemble contest and All-Region auditions. Student attendance at rehearsals and performances outside of school will be required. This is a full-year course.
Theatre
Theatre Arts - Introduction to Theatre - 0600
-Grade Placement 7-8
Students will develop a perception of self, human relationships, and the world using elements of drama and conventions of theatre study, students will be introduced to basic acting, directing, movement, technical theatre, literature, voice, and design. Through performance opportunities, technical theatre skills and artistic practices, students learn to accept constructive criticism, revise personal views to promote creative and critical thinking, and develop the ability to appreciate, construct and evaluate live theatre.
Theatre Production - 0600
-Grade Placement 7-8 (Tryouts will be held to determine placement)
Students will refine theatre concepts, such as, using creative expression in performances, and evaluating performances. Specific topics include theatre history, careers in theatre, characterization, poetry reading, defining characters and portraying them in scenes, and improvisation. Many of the performances will be memorized and performed using visual elements. Students will participate in UIL One Act Play. Experiences will prepare them for high school theatre.
Possible career objectives for students with talent in the fine arts - THEATRE/DANCE: Actor, Costume Design, Lighting/Sound Technician, Producer, Set Designer, Theatre Manager, Choreographer, Lawyer, Critic, Broadcaster, Dancer, Playwright, Public Relations, Film/Stage Director, Teacher, Commercials, Politician, and Vocal Coach.
Dance
Dance 1 - 0537
-Grade Placement 7-8
Students will learn basic elements of dance styles and acquire the wellness information and skills necessary to become healthy adults.
Dance 2 - 0538
-Grade Placement 7-8
This course will continue to extend the learner's knowledge of basic elements of dance styles and will inspire students to continue to acquire wellness information and skills necessary to become healthy adults. Tryouts will be held to determine placement.
Dance 3 - 0539
-Grade Placement 7-8
This course will continue to extend the learner's knowledge of basic elements of dance styles and will inspire students to continue to acquire wellness. Tryouts will be held to determine placement.
Possible career objectives for students with talent in the fine arts - DANCE: Professional dance artist, choreographer, artistic director, dance educator, dance historian, dance-movement specialist, dance fitness instructor, dance arts collaborator: costumers, musicians, and more.
Visual Arts
Art - 0807
-Grade Placement 7-8
Art is a project-oriented class, which introduces students to hands-on activities utilizing line, color, design, illustrations, sketching, painting, and shading techniques.
Advanced Art - 0817
-Grade Placement 8
Prerequisite: Art and Teacher Approval
Art I is an introduction to the use of the elements and principles of design, and the different materials used for self-expression. The student will be given opportunities to design and create original works of art.
Possible career objectives for students with talent in the fine arts - VISUAL: Advertising, Animator, Interior Design, Illustrator, Ceramics, Fashion, Display Design, Environmental Designer, Set Designer, Architecture, Graphic Artist, Art Collector/Director, Art Historian/Art Teacher, Jewelry Design, Production Artist, Sculptor, Printer, Caricature Artist
Physical Education
Physical Education - 0907
-Grade 7-8 Placement
This class involves students in a regular fitness awareness program, including group activities and individual development. Goals include development of sportsmanship, awareness of others, team effort, and social skills. Changing into gym clothes daily is a requirement.
Boys and girls will be divided into separated classes. Classes meet every day and each student is expected to change into shorts, shirt, shoes, and socks every day. Students are expected to strive for 100% participation. Each student will be asked to set a fitness goal for each year. Various sports will be covered throughout the year. Education for life wellness will be incorporated for students. Physical Fitness Assessment required by the Texas Education Agency will participate in an annual physical fitness assessment. The Fitnessgram assessment instrument will contain criterion-referenced standards specific to a student's age and gender based on the physical fitness level required for good health. Good health components will include an aerobic capacity, body composition, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and a flexibility assessment.
Athletics
Girls 8th Grade Athletics - 0900
Girls 7th Grade Athletics - 0902
Boys 8th Grade Athletics - 0901
Boys 7th Grade Athletics - 0903
(A physical from an acceptable health resource is required to participate in this course.)
Students in athletics must participate in competitive sports. Boys’ sports include football, basketball, cross country, tennis, and track. Girls’ sports include volleyball, basketball, cross country, track and tennis. If a student does not make a team after a tryout period, the student will go through training in an offseason program. *Students must maintain passing grades each six weeks to be eligible to participate.
Lifetime Recreation and Outdoor Pursuits (Formerly known as Outdoor Education) - 0578
-Grade 7-8 Placement
In Lifetime Recreation and Outdoor Pursuits, students will demonstrate basic competency in activities such as hiking, camping, orienteering and archery. Emphasis is placed on ethics, safety, conservation, laws, responsibilities, physical fitness, and selecting activities that can be enjoyed for a lifetime.
Other Electives
Yearbook - 0578
-Grade 8 Placement (application required)
This course is designed for students who wish to create and market a yearbook that records their middle school's memories and events. Students will learn design, technology, journalism, photography, advertising, and interpersonal skills. Students have the opportunity to design page layouts, learn basic photography and computer skills, interview peers and staff write stories and photo captions, learn time management and organization skills, and create sales campaigns. Yearbook production is a creative process that also incorporates real-world skills like working as a team and meeting deadlines.
Peer Assisted Leadership
PALS - 0508
-Grade 8 Placement (application required)
PALS stands for Peer Assistance and Leadership. The students work with at risk students and serve as mentors at the neighboring elementary school. PALS help in several ways by leading and encouraging others to make the right choices. PALS are also very involved in the community.
Partner PE - 0972
-Grade 8 Placement (application required)
Students will assist special needs students in either PE class. These students will also become a mentor to one special student.
Partner Art - 0974
-Grade 8 Placement (application required)
Students will assist special needs students in either Art class. These students will also become a mentor to one special student.
Languages Other Than English
Spanish 1 - 0600
-Grade 8 Placement (high school credit: 1.0)
This course introduces the basic Spanish language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students develop these communication skills by using knowledge of the language, including grammar, and culture, communication and learning strategies, technology, and content from other subject areas to socialize, to acquire and provide information, to express feelings and opinions, and to get others to adopt a course of action. Students who complete this course will get 1 High School Languages Other than English (LOTE) credit.