Course Catalog

CHALLENGE ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS 6

Course Length: Full Year

This course builds upon previous learning of the Common Core State English/Language Arts (E/LA) Standards in elementary school, prepares students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes the skills necessary for a successful progression of learning to the next grade level of E/LA course work.

The sixth grade E/LA SpringBoard curriculum extends the development of reading, composition, and speaking skills. Sixth grade Springboard instructional materials center upon the theme of Change. Using Advanced Placement (AP) strategies, students are taught to analyze complex fiction and nonfiction from a variety of genres, including longer literary studies of a class novel and a selection of novels students can choose for independent reading. Sixth graders stretch their composition skills by responding to analytical writing prompts. Students actively participate in text-based class discussions and study vocabulary to expand their writing, reading, and speaking skills.

AAP ENGLISH/LANGUAGE ARTS 6

Course length: Full Year

Students must qualify for placement by participating in the EAP program in elementary school or through the NSD highly capable screening and testing process. This is not a self-select course; students will be individually scheduled for this course.

This course builds upon previous learning of the Common Core State English/Language Arts (E/LA) Standards in elementary school, prepares students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes the skills necessary for a successful progression of learning to the next grade level of E/LA course work.

The 6th grade E/LA SpringBoard curriculum extends the development of reading, composition, and speaking skills. Sixth grade instructional materials center upon the theme of Change. Using Advanced Placement (AP) strategies, students are taught to analyze complex fiction and nonfiction from a variety of genres, including a longer literary study of a novel. Sixth graders stretch their composition skills by responding to AP style writing prompts. Students actively participate in text-based class discussions and study vocabulary to expand their writing, reading, and speaking skills.

In addition to the 6th Grade English/Language Arts course description below, students taking this course must exhibit strong writing skills, have excellent reading comprehension, and be self-motivated in completing class work. The Challenge 6th Grade E/LA class may move at a faster pace and include additional novels to be read independently by the student.

HEALTH AND FITNESS 6

(ELECTIVE WHEEL A, combined with 2 quarter electives)

Course Length: Semester (Required)

GOALS: Health Fitness is a required semester class focusing on the concepts of health and fitness and how they relate to a teenager for a healthy lifestyle. Emphasis is on the need for physical activity, balanced nutrition, the FITT principle, healthy relationships, goal setting, communication, appropriate decision-making, and stress management. Students will be in the classroom and in an activity-based setting. Cardiorespiratory activities will be a minimum of one day per week. Sports/activities vary depending on season, weather, and available teaching areas.

SKILLS: Critical thinking and problem solving for a healthy lifestyle, continued development of physical skills for lifetime participation in a variety of sport fitness, and rhythmic activities, and knowledge and application of rules for various individual sports, team sports, and cardio-respiratory monitoring activities.

ASSIGNMENTS: Daily participation in various fitness, rhythmic, sports and classroom-based activities. Includes written assignments, projects, tests, homework, etc. Students will be required to complete various assessments dealing with fitness performance and fitness comprehension.

PRE-ALGEBRA 1

Course length: Full Year

Equipment: A scientific calculator is required. The Texas Instrument TI-83 or TI-84 family of graphing calculators may be used.

This course is the first year of a two-year sequence that compresses all of the Common Core State Standards for 6th grade math, 7th grade math, and 8th grade math in two years, focusing primarily on 6th and some 7th grade math standards. In Pre-Algebra 1, students build on their knowledge of numbers as they explore four critical areas of mathematics. Ratios and Proportional Reasoning: Connect ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division, and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; The Number System: Complete understanding of division of fractions, extend the notion of number to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers, and apply and extend understandings of operations with fractions to add, subtract, multiply, and divide rational numbers; Expressions and Equations: writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and Statistics and Probability: Develop understanding of statistical thinking.

 

PRE-ALGEBRA 2

THIS IS NOT A SELF SELECT COURSE. STUDENTS WILL BE PLACED AUTOMATICALLY IF THEY MEET THE PRE-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS.

Course length: Full Year

Equipment: A scientific calculator is required. The Texas Instrument TI-83 or TI-84 family of graphing calculators may be used.

This course is the second year of a two-year sequence that compresses all of the Common Core State Standards for 6th grade math, 7th grade math, and 8th grade math in two years, focusing primarily on 7th and 8th grade math standards. In Pre-Algebra 2, students build on their knowledge of numbers as they explore five critical areas of mathematics. Ratios and Proportional Reasoning: developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships; Expressions and Equations: formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; Functions: grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; Geometry: solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions, analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. Statistics and Probability: drawing inferences about populations based on samples.

 

ALGEBRA 1

THIS IS NOT A SELF SELECT COURSE. STUDENTS WILL BE PLACED AUTOMATICALLY IF THEY MEET THE PRE-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS.

Length/Credit: Full Year/1 High School Credit

Prerequisite:one of the following;

• Completion of 7th Grade Challenge Math 

• Completion of Pre-Algebra 2 

• Completion of an 8th Grade Accelerated Summer Math Course.                                                                Students considering this option should contact their school counselor. 

• Completion of a 7th Grade Challenge or Pre-Algebra 2 Summer Math Course.                                        Students considering this option should contact their school counselor. 

• Qualifying score on Algebra Readiness Assessments

Equipment: A scientific calculator is required. The Texas Instrument TI-83 or TI-84 family of graphing calculators is strongly recommended.

This course expands on the students' understanding of using arithmetic operations and properties to include the symbolic language of algebra. Students will formalize their understanding of functions with a focus on linear functions, exponential functions and quadratic functions. Other topics that will be studied are writing equations to model linear equations, solving systems of linear equations and inequalities, solving quadratic equations with real roots, exponent laws and properties, arithmetic and geometric sequences, patterns of association in bivariate data, and the Pythagorean Theorem. Students will continue to develop problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, and mathematical modeling skills aligned to the Standards for Mathematical Practice.

CHALLENGE INTEGRATED SCIENCE 6

Course Length: Full Year

Based on the Next Generation Science Standards (Washington State Student Learning Standards) performance expectations for middle school science. Students will engage in science and engineering practices as they learn about disciplinary core ideas within the realm of cells, organisms, energy and weather & climate. Students will also be learning important cross-cutting concepts that include: patterns, structure and function, systems and system models.

 

AAP INTEGRATED SCIENCE 6

Course Length: Full Year

Students must qualify for placement by participating in the EAP program in elementary school or through a highly capable screening and testing process, which is initiated in the fall at the District. This is not a self-select course; students will be individually scheduled for this course.

Based on the Next Generation Science Standards (Washington State Student Learning Standards) performance expectations for middle school science. Students will engage in science and engineering practices as they learn about disciplinary core ideas within the realm of cells, organisms, energy and weather & climate. Students will also be learning important cross-cutting concepts that include: patterns, structure and function, systems and system models. Students will engage in the same content area as 6th Grade Integrated Science with enrichment and a deeper level of complexity. Students should have the desire to continue to academically advanced science courses.

CHALLENGE ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL WORLD HISTORY 6

Course length: Full Year

6th grade Ancient and Medieval World History is a yearlong course covering the history of the world from its beginnings to 1450 CE. During this year at least six major world civilizations will be studied in-depth focusing on deepening students' understanding of the Earth and its peoples through the study of history, geography, politics, culture, and economic systems from different regions of the world. Students will analyze the interactions among various cultures, emphasizing their enduring contributions and the link between the contemporary and ancient worlds.

This course addresses the Common Core State Standards for History, prepares students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes social studies skills necessary for a successful progression of learning to the next grade level of Social Studies coursework.

 

AAP ANCIENT AND MEDIEVAL WORLD HISTORY 6

Course length: Full Year

Students must qualify for placement by participating in the EAP program in elementary school or through a highly capable screening and testing process. This is not a self-select course; students will be individually scheduled for this course.

6th grade Ancient and Medieval World History is a yearlong course covering the history of the world from its beginnings to 1450 CE. During this year at least six major world civilizations will be studied in-depth focusing on deepening students' understanding of the Earth and its peoples through the study of history, geography, politics, culture, and economic systems from different regions of the world. Students will analyze the interactions among various cultures, emphasizing their enduring contributions and the link between the contemporary and ancient worlds.

This course addresses the Common Core State Standards for History, prepares students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes social studies skills necessary for a successful progression of learning to the next grade level of Social Studies coursework.

EXPLORATORY WHEELS

WHEEL A (option 1 below):

6 quarter long exploratory classes and 1 semester of Health/Fitness; or

WHEEL B (option 2 below):

1 full year music option (4 quarters), 2 quarter long exploratory classes, and 1 semester of Health/Fitness.

Exploratory Wheels are a series of 9-week courses designed to provide students with exposure to a variety of subjects. These may include: Performance Arts, Visual Arts, STEM, Leadership, Fitness-related classes, World Language, and other exploratory topics. This course is an opportunity to cultivate undiscovered interests, and create opportunities for students to make informed decisions about elective offerings in 7th and 8th grade. The makeup of the actual content covered in the Elective Wheel will vary, is dependent on staff expertise and availability, and randomly assigned.

Option 1: Health Fitness and ExploratoryWheel

Health/ Fitness

9-Week Exploratory

9-Week Exploratory

 

9-Week Exploratory

9-Week Exploratory

9-Week Exploratory

9-Week Exploratory

 

 

Option 2: Year-long Music and Exploratory Wheel

Health/ Fitness

9-Week Exploratory

9-Week Exploratory

 

Year-long Music   Year-long music options include: Band, Orchestra, and Choir.

 

MUSIC ELECTIVES

Course length: Full Year

 

CADET BAND

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, and purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Prerequisite: None. Students of any grade level wishing to begin learning a band instrument may register for this course.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, development of sight-reading, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required.

 

CONCERT BAND

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, and purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Prerequisite: 1 full year prior experience or director approval.

Goals: To continue the year-to-year progression of proper skills, technique, and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, and music theory, development of sight-reading and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required.

 

CHOIR 6

Requirement: ASB Card

Prerequisite: None. This class is open for any 6th grade student.

Goals: To continue the year-to-year progression of proper skills, technique, and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of literature for this ensemble and performance of future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary and music theory, development of sight-reading, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required.

 

CONCERTANTE ORCHESTRA (Orchestra 6)

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, strings, and rosin, as well as purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Prerequisite: None - anyone desiring to play a string instrument (String Bass, Cello, Viola or Violin) for the first time or has had 1 year of elementary instruction.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, and development of sight-reading and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required. As students become confident in their abilities, they will perform in three concerts throughout the school year. Home practice is an expected part of the class, as is class participation.

 

CHALLENGE ENGLISH 7

Course Length: Full Year

This course builds upon previous learning of the Common Core State English/Language Arts (E/LA) Standards in 6th grade, prepares students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes the skills necessary for a successful progression of learning to the next grade level of E/LA course work.

The 7th grade E/LA SpringBoard curriculum extends the development of reading, composition, and speaking skills. Seventh grade course materials center upon the theme of Choice. Using Advanced Placement (AP) strategies, students are taught to analyze complex fiction and nonfiction from a variety of genres, including longer literary studies of a novel. Seventh graders stretch their composition skills by responding to analytical writing prompts. Students actively participate in text-based class discussions and study vocabulary to enhance their writing, reading, and speaking skills. Each unit culminates in a comprehensive Embedded Assessments.

In addition to the course description below, students taking this course must exhibit strong writing skills, have excellent reading comprehension, and be self-motivated in completing class work. The Challenge 7th Grade E/LA class may move at a faster pace and include additional novels to be read independently by the student.

 

AAP ENGLISH 7

Course Length: Full Year

Students must qualify for placement by participating in the EAP program in elementary school or through the NSD highly capable screening and testing process. This is not a self-select course; students will be individually scheduled for this course.

This course builds upon previous learning of the Common Core State English/Language Arts (E/LA) Standards in 6th grade, prepares students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes the skills necessary for a successful progression of learning to the next grade level of E/LA course work.

The 7th grade E/LA SpringBoard curriculum extends the development of reading, composition, and speaking skills. 7th grade instructional materials center upon the theme of Choice. Using Advanced Placement (AP) strategies, students are taught to analyze complex fiction and nonfiction from a variety of genres, including longer literary studies of a class novel and includes a selection of novels students can choose for independent reading. Seventh graders stretch their composition skills by responding to analytical writing prompts. Students actively participate in text-based class discussions and study vocabulary to expand their writing, reading, and speaking skills. Each unit culminates in two comprehensive Embedded Assessments.

In addition to the 7th Grade English/Language Arts course description below, students taking this course must exhibit strong writing skills, have excellent reading comprehension, and be self-motivated in completing class work. The Challenge 7th Grade E/LA class may move at a faster pace and include additional novels to be read independently by the student.

HEALTH AND FITNESS 7

Course length: One Semester (REQUIRED COURSE)

Requirements: 1) Composition book, 2) NMS uniform: Light gray crew-neck t-shirt, navy or black basketball style shorts (7-9-inch inseam) and tennis shoes. Sweats are recommended, but not required. Uniforms can be purchased in the NMS Main Office.

Health and Fitness will emphasize health-related fitness, sports’ skills and lifetime activities. Students will participate in a variety of team and individual sports/activities. Grade level includes a fitness awareness program and a weekly fitness run or fitness related activity. Through participation in this course students will be working to satisfy the district and state Health and Fitness standards.

This course may include, but is not limited to, the following team and individual sports/activities:

Archery                                     Volleyball                                Dance

Badminton                               Track and Field                      Disc Sports

Basketball                                Softball                                    Fitness

 Bowling                                    Soccer                                      Hockey

Conditioning                             Organized Games                  Lacrosse

PRE-ALGEBRA 2

Course Length: Full Year

Equipment: A scientific calculator is required. The Texas Instrument TI-83 or TI-84 family of graphing calculators may be used.

This course is the second year of a two-year sequence that compresses all of the Common Core State Standards for 6th grade math, 7th grade math, and 8th grade math in two years, focusing primarily on 7th and 8th grade math standards. In Pre-Algebra 2, students build on their knowledge of numbers as they explore five critical areas of mathematics. Ratios and Proportional Reasoning: developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships; Expressions and Equations: formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; Functions: grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; Geometry: solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions, analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. Statistics and Probability: drawing inferences about populations based on samples.

 

ALGEBRA 1

THIS IS NOT A SELF SELECT COURSE. STUDENTS WILL BE PLACED AUTOMATICALLY IF THEY MEET THE PRE-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS.

Length/Credit: Full Year/1 High School Credit

Prerequisite: one of the following;

• 7th Grade Challenge Math 

• Completion of Pre-Algebra 2 

• Completion of an 8th Grade Accelerated Summer Math Course. Students considering this option should contact their school counselor. 

• Completion of a 7th Grade Challenge or Pre-Algebra 2 Summer Math Course. Students considering this option should contact their school counselor. 

•  Qualifying score on Algebra Readiness Assessments

Equipment: A scientific calculator is required. The Texas Instrument TI-83 or TI-84 family of graphing calculators is strongly recommended.

This course expands on the students' understanding of using arithmetic operations and properties to include the symbolic language of algebra. Students will formalize their understanding of functions with a focus on linear functions, exponential functions, and quadratic functions. Other topics that will be studied are writing equations to model linear equations, solving systems of linear equations and inequalities, solving quadratic equations with real roots, exponent laws and properties, arithmetic and geometric sequences, patterns of association in bivariate data, and the Pythagorean Theorem. Students will continue to develop problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, and mathematical modeling skills aligned to the Standards for Mathematical Practice.

 

GEOMETRY

THIS IS NOT A SELF SELECT COURSE. STUDENTS WILL BE PLACED AUTOMATICALLY IF THEY MEET THE PRE-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS.

Length/Credit: Full Year/1 High School Credit

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

Equipment: A scientific calculator is required. The Texas Instrument TI-83 or TI-84 family of graphing calculators is strongly recommended.

This course is the second math course in the high school math sequence, following Algebra 1, and addresses the Common Core State Standards for high school mathematics. Students will formalize their reasoning skills to write proofs built on definitions, axioms, and theorems. Students will study parallel and perpendicular lines, triangle properties, quadrilateral properties, and properties of other polygons and circles. Other topics that will be studied are similar and congruent figures, right triangle trigonometry, coordinate geometry, geometric transformations, area, surface area and volume of three-dimensional figures. Students will continue to develop problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, and mathematical modeling skills aligned to the Standards for Mathematical Practice.

CHALLENGE INTEGRATED SCIENCE 7

Course Length: Full Year

Based on the Next Generation Science Standards (Washington State Student Learning Standards) performance expectations for middle school science, students will engage in science and engineering practices as they learn about disciplinary core ideas through three critical strands--physical science, life science and earth/space science. Specific units of study will include electricity, waves and information transfer, ecosystems and their interactions, and earth’s dynamic systems. Students will incorporate cross-cutting concepts (e.g. patterns, systems, etc.) that support scientific understanding and are applicable across science investigations.

In addition to the course description above, students taking this course must exhibit strong mathematical, verbal, and writing ability, and be self-motivated in completing class work. The Integrated Seventh Grade Science class may move at a faster pace and level of complexity and include work to be completed independently by the student.

 

AAP INTEGRATED SCIENCE 7

Course Length: Full Year

Students must qualify for placement by participating in the EAP program in elementary school or through a highly capable screening and testing process. This is not a self-select course; students will be individually scheduled for this course.

This course is intended for students who demonstrate an outstanding aptitude and interest in science and exhibit strong mathematica. Students will be expected to read complex texts and must be self-motivated and committed to investing time outside of the classroom studies.

Based on the Next Generation Science Standards (Washington State Student Learning Standards) performance expectations for middle school science, students will engage in science and engineering practices as they learn about disciplinary core ideas through three critical strands--physical science, life science and earth/space science. Specific units of study will include electricity, waves and information transfer, ecosystems and their interactions, and earth’s dynamic systems. Students will incorporate cross-cutting concepts (e.g. patterns, systems, etc.) that support scientific understanding and are applicable across science investigations.

Students will engage in the same content area as 7th Grade Integrated Science with enrichment and a deeper level of complexity. Students should have the desire to continue to academically advanced science courses

CHALLENGE WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY

Course Length: Full Year

Special Note: Passing one semester of Washington State History is a state high school graduation requirement.

Students will use maps, charts, and other geographical tools as they explore the five themes of geography. Other units include Native Americans in the Pacific Northwest, European Exploration and early settlement of Washington, the journey from territory to statehood, and Washington State’s industrial growth. State government, economics and trade in the modern state and the world will also be studied. This course addresses the Common Core State Standards for History, prepares the students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes the skills necessary for a successful progression of learning to the next grade level of Social Studies coursework.

In addition to the course description above, students taking this course will participate in at least one major performance-based project that will require outside research and work time. As a result, the course may move at a faster pace. This course requires a high-level of reading, writing, listening, discussing and critical thinking skills. Students must have strengths in these core skills and be self-motivated to meet the high expectations of this class.

 

AAP WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY

Course Length: Full Year

Special Note: Passing one semester of Washington State History is a state high school graduation requirement.

Students must qualify for placement by participating in the EAP program in elementary school or through a highly capable screening and testing process.

This is not a self-select course; students will be individually scheduled for this course.

Please refer to the Challenge Social Studies 7-Washington State History course description above. This course is designed to meet the graduation requirements of Washington State. Historical topics are explored through textbooks and supplementary readings, including speeches, short stories, and documents. The readings and subsequent dialogue are designed to encourage and develop high level discourse on issues important to Washington state.

Elective Student Request Policy The following full year and single semester elective descriptions are for electives that NMS intends to offer in the next academic school year. NMS staff will attempt to fulfill student requests; however, final elective course availability depends on student enrollment and school staffing. NMS cannot guarantee that a student will receive any particular elective request.

 

FULL YEAR ELECTIVES

Course Length: Full Year

 

CADET BAND (MUB700A & MUB700B)

Prerequisite: None. This class is open for any student wishing to begin Band.                                                     Requirement: Parents provide instruments, and purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, development of sight-reading, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required.

CONCERT BAND (MUB510A & MUB510B)                                                                                   

Prerequisite: 1-year prior experience or director approval.                                                                                         Requirement: Parents provide instruments, and purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Goals: To continue the year-to-year progression of proper skills, technique, and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, and music theory, development of sight-reading and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required.

 

SYMPHONIC BAND (MUB520A & MUB520B)

Prerequisite: 2-year minimum prior experience, or audition and director approval.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, and purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Goals: To continue the year-to-year progression of proper skills, technique, and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, and identification with various composers and arrangers, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and the group. Performances are required which can include evening concerts, at-school performances, community programs, league contests and festivals. Performance at the district solo/ensemble contest may be required. Enrollment is required for participation in Jazz Band.

CHOIR 7 (MUV730A & MUV730B)

Prerequisite: None. This class is open for any 7th grade student.

Requirement: ASB Card

Goals: To continue the year-to-year progression of proper skills, technique and methods to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of literature for this ensemble and performance of future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary and music theory, development of sight-reading and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required.

 

CONCERTANTE ORCHESTRA (ORCHESTRA 6) (MUO600A & MUO600B)

Prerequisite: None. This class is open for any student wishing to begin Orchestra.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, strings, and rosin, as well as purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique, and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, and development of sight-reading and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required. As students become confident in their abilities, they will perform in three concerts throughout the school year. Home practice is an expected part of the class, as is class participation.

 

OVERTURE ORCHESTRA (ORCHESTRA 7) (MUO700A & MUO700B)

Prerequisite: Minimum one-year middle school orchestra or director permission.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, strings, and rosin, as well as purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

The Overture Orchestra class is designed for students who have had 2-3 years playing experience. Students wishing to learn to play string Bass, Cello, Viola, or Violin for the first time should sign up for the Concertante Orchestra above or talk with the instructor. As students become confident in their abilities, they will perform in three concerts throughout the school year. Home practice is an expected part of the class, as is class participation.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique, and methods to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique-building, review of basic skill vocabulary, music theory, development of sight-reading, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and the group. Performances are required.

 

SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA (ORCHESTRA 8) (MUO800A & MUO800B)

Prerequisite: Minimum two-year middle school orchestra or director permission.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, strings, and rosin, as well as purchase uniform supplies, and ASB card at NMS.

The Advanced Orchestra class is designed for students who have had 3 or more years of playing experience. Students wishing to learn to play string Bass, Cello, Viola, or Violin for the first time should sign up for Concertante Orchestra or talk with the instructor. As students become confident in their abilities, they will perform in three concerts throughout the school year. Home practice is an expected part of the class, as is class participation.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique, and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, development of sight-reading, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and the group. Performances are required.

 

SEMESTER ELECTIVES

Course Length: Half Year

 

ART 7/8 (ART780)

Note: This course cannot be repeated within the same school year.

Prerequisite: None

Art 7/8 introduces students to the elements and principles of art and design, as well as the creative process. Students will study a diverse range of artists and art movements in addition to hands-on projects. Art projects will include a variety of experiences so as to allow students to experiment with materials and methods. We will explore a variety of mediums which may include graphite, pen and ink, charcoal, various paints, printmaking, colored pencils, oil pastel and mixed media. This class is designed to be taken one semester per school year and can be taken as a 7th grader and/or 8th grader. Students will not repeat the same projects as we are on an A/B curriculum schedule.

 

CAD - FOUNDATIONS OF COMPUTER AIDED DRAFTING/DESIGN (TEC780)

Note:  This course can be repeated.

Prerequisite:  None.

Students will learn applications like Tinkercad and Rhinoceros to develop basic 2D and 3D computer drafting and modeling skills. Students will use their designs with output devices like laser cutters, vinyl cutters, and 3D printers to create signs, keyrings, and stickers they can keep.

 

CERAMICS 7/8 (ACE780)

Note: This course cannot be repeated

Prerequisite: None

Ceramics 7/8 introduces students to the various stages of clay as well as three main techniques for hand building, (pinch, coil, and slab). Using the creative process, students will explore the art and science of clay and glaze, the history of ceramics as an art medium, and the various tools used in these processes. Some projects will focus on learning technique while others are more open-ended, allowing students to creatively apply what they’ve learned. Ceramics is designed to be taken one semester only in 7th or 8th grade and cannot be repeated without teacher approval.

 

COMPUTER SCIENCE I (BCS700)

Note: This course cannot be repeated

Prerequisite: None.

Requirement: Students must be willing to participate in class every day. Typing proficiency is helpful.

This course provides an introduction to coding in Python. Students will explore the many facets of basic programming and applications to the real world with learning about careers in computer science. Students completing this course will be able to create games, animations, and other programs in Python. No prior computer programming experience is necessary, and this course applies to all who are curious about programming.

 

COMPUTER SCIENCE II (BCS800)

Prerequisite: Computer Science I (BCS700), or teacher approval.                                                                            Requirement: Students must be willing to participate in class every day. Typing proficiency  is helpful.

This course is a continuation in the middle school computer science pathway. Coding concepts include lists, sprites, and functions. Prerequisite for this course is BCS700, or applicable programming experience (instructor approved), as students will utilize previous computer science knowledge to expand their learning.

 

CREATIVE COOKING (HFC700)

Requirement: Students must be willing to work in a fast paced, group-based environment with all members of the class, where cleaning and cooking are expected from every student.

Develop essential cooking and baking skills in this fast paced, semester class. Utilize safe cooking techniques to serve delicious meals like omelets for teachers, compete in class challenges, and participate in the Food Truck competition. You will learn the fundamentals of cooking and baking with dairy, proteins, produce, breads, and desserts. Let’s get cooking!

 

DRAMA 7/8 (DRA780)

Prerequisite: None.

Compose your own one acts, monologues and dialogues. Use face, body, voice, and action plus good vocal skills to gain confidence speaking on stage. Cast yourself as the lead in stories you write and perform. Theater games and improv too!

Skills: Creative thinking, problem solving, improvisation, pantomime, script writing, emotional expression, speaking skills, movement, character development and staging.

Assignments: Skits, scenes, monologues created by the students and their peers.

 

EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY I (TEC700)

Note: This course cannot be repeated

Prerequisite: None.

Students will be engaged in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) design and fabrication activities. This is a hands-on class that focuses on making fun projects while learning the design process. Projects and activities are geared toward exposing students to a range of technologies including wood fabrication, electricity and electronics, engineering design principles, and computer-based technologies. Students will gain an understanding of safe shop practices while completing projects that incorporate a variety of hand and machine tool skills.

 

EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY II (TEC800)

Prerequisite: Exploring Technology I

Students will be engaged in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) projects while learning the design process. Students will have the opportunity to work with a variety of technologies and process that include some or all of the following: Computer Aided Design (CAD), wood fabrication, electricity and electronics projects, mechanical structures, and CNC output devices (eg. Laser cutting, CNC vinyl cutting). The scientific underpinnings of the projects are often explored as part of the design and fabrication process.

 

GOURMET FOODS (HFG800)

Requirement: Students must be willing to work in a fast paced, group-based environment with all members of the class, where cleaning and cooking are expected from every student.

Explore the world of food in this fast-paced semester class! Try new cuisines, experience cultures unlike your own, and grow in confidence in the kitchen. Spend time learning about the basics of cooking and baking through an introduction to cooking dairy, proteins, produce, and desserts. Enjoy classics like pasta and pizza while tasting new recipes like semifreddo, paella, and more! End the semester with an international food festival competition with your peers to show off your new skills. Bon appetit!

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 7/8 (PPE780)

Requirements: NMS uniform: Light gray crew-neck t-shirt, navy or black basketball style shorts (7-9-inch inseam) and tennis shoes. Sweats are recommended, but not required. Uniforms can be purchased in the NMS Main Office.

Goals: This course is designed to offer students the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of team and individual sports. Activities may include basketball, soccer, floor hockey, flag football, softball, golf, tennis, archery, disc sports, bowling, ultimate Frisbee, volleyball, badminton and capture the flag. There is a minimum of one cardio-respiratory fitness activity per week. A minimum of 2 block days will focus on game play. Curriculum will vary upon the time of year the class is offered and availability of the facilities.

Assignments: Daily participation in a variety of activities, and a weekly activity log.

 

ROBOTICS FOUNDATIONS (TER780)

Prerequisite: None.

This course is designed as an introductory STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) class where students learn engineering, technical and programming skills through hands on projects and experiences. The core of the class centers around students working with the Lego EV-3 robotic platform. Students work with interactive multimedia curriculum and instructions in order to build and program their robots to meet fun challenges. These activities require students to develop skills and strategies to solve problems. Other technologies may be explored in addition to the EV-3 platform depending on time and class pacing and needs. Additional potential activities include Micro:bit microprocessors, Arduino microprocessors, TeacherGeek Bug electronics lab project and others.

 

SERVICE LEARNING/LEADERSHIP (YYN805)

Requirements: Community Service Projects

Elected ASB Officers may be required to sign up for at least one semester.

In this course, students will develop and apply principles of exemplary leadership via active service to our community. Students will participate in democratic, collaborative processes and projects to plan school-related activities that will enhance school culture and climate. This class will frequently work in the classrooms of our neighboring Woodmoor Elementary School, assisting younger students while developing and practicing leadership skills taught in class. Students will develop and implement service events to impact local and/or international communities. Throughout the course, students will learn practical tips for communicating effectively through email, visual formats, and public speaking, and develop personal life skills in the following areas: Leadership, Excellence, Acceptance, and Determination.

 

YEARBOOK/JOURNALISM (ENG870)

Prerequisite: None.

Yearbook/Journalism is a course designed to develop students' skills in the production of the school yearbook and yearbook specific journalism. Students learn basic principles of yearbook production and develop skills that include writing copy, story lines, captions, and headlines; digital photography; desktop publishing and using appropriate technology tools for media production.

CHALLENGE ENGLISH 8

Course Length: Full Year

Prior enrollment in Challenge E/LA 7 is not a prerequisite. This course builds upon previous learning of the Common Core State English/Language Arts (E/LA) Standards in 7th grade, prepares students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes the skills necessary for a successful progression of learning to the next grade level of E/LA course work.

The 8th grade E/LA SpringBoard curriculum develops reading, composition, and speaking skills. Eighth grade instructional materials center on the theme of Challenge. Using Advanced Placement (AP) strategies, students are taught to analyze complex fiction and nonfiction from a variety of genres, including a longer literary study of a class novel and a Shakespearean play. Eighth graders stretch their composition skills by responding to analytical writing prompts. Students actively participate in text-based class discussions and study vocabulary to enhance their writing, reading, and speaking skills. Each unit culminates in a comprehensive Embedded Assessment.

In addition to the 8th Grade English/Language Arts course description below, students taking this course must exhibit strong writing skills, have excellent reading comprehension, and be self-motivated in completing class work. The Challenge 8th Grade E/LA class may move at a faster pace and include additional novels to be read independently by the student.

 

AAP ENGLISH 8

Course Length: Full Year

Students must qualify for placement by participating in the Advanced Academics Program (AAP)/Highly Capable English in 7th grade or through the NSD highly capable screening and testing process. This is not a self-select course; students will be individually scheduled for this course.

This course builds upon previous learning of the Common Core State English/Language Arts (E/LA) Standards, prepares students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes the skills necessary for a successful progression of learning for advanced level E/LA course work.

The 8th grade E/LA SpringBoard curriculum extends the development of reading, composition,

and speaking skills. Eighth grade instructional materials center on the theme of Challenge. Using Advanced Placement (AP) strategies, students are taught to analyze complex fiction and nonfiction from a variety of genres, including longer literary study of novels and includes a selection of novels students can choose for independent reading. The curriculum includes composition skills responding to analytical writing prompts. Students actively participate in text-based class discussions and study vocabulary to enhance their writing, reading, and speaking skills. Each unit culminates in a comprehensive Embedded Assessment.

HEALTH AND FITNESS 8 

Course length: One Semester (REQUIRED COURSE)

Requirements: 1) Composition book, 2) NMS uniform: Light gray crew-neck t-shirt, navy or black basketball style shorts (7-9-inch inseam) and tennis shoes. Sweats are recommended, but not required. Uniforms can be purchased in the NMS Main Office.

Health and Fitness will emphasize health-related fitness, sports’ skills and lifetime activities. Students will participate in a variety of team and individual sports/activities. Grade level includes a fitness awareness program and a weekly fitness run or fitness related activity. Through participation in this course students will be working to satisfy the district and state Health and Fitness standards.

This course may include, but is not limited to, the following team and individual sports/activities:

Archery                                     Volleyball                                Dance

Badminton                               Track and Field                      Disc Sports

Basketball                                Softball                                    Fitness

 Bowling                                    Soccer                                      Hockey

Conditioning                             Organized Games                  Lacrosse

 

 

ALGEBRA 1

THIS IS NOT A SELF SELECT COURSE. STUDENTS WILL BE PLACED AUTOMATICALLY IF THEY MEET THE PRE-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS.

Length/Credit: Full Year/1 High School Credit

Prerequisite: one of the following;       

• 7th Grade Challenge Math

• Completion of Pre-Algebra 2

• Completion of an 8th Grade Accelerated Summer Math Course.  Students considering this option should contact their school counselor.

• Completion of an 7th Grade Challenge or Pre-Algebra 2  Summer Math Course.  Students considering this option should contact their school counselor.

• Qualifying score on Algebra Readiness Assessments

                                                                                                                                                     

Equipment: A scientific calculator is required. The Texas Instrument TI-83 or TI-84 family of graphing calculators is strongly recommended.

This course expands on the students' understanding of using arithmetic operations and properties to include the symbolic language of algebra. Students will formalize their understanding of functions with a focus on linear functions, exponential functions, and quadratic functions. Other topics that will be studied are writing equations to model linear equations, solving systems of linear equations and inequalities, solving quadratic equations with real roots, exponent laws and properties, arithmetic and geometric sequences, patterns of association in bivariate data, and the Pythagorean Theorem. Students will continue to develop problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, and mathematical modeling skills aligned to the Standards for Mathematical Practice

 

GEOMETRY

THIS IS NOT A SELF SELECT COURSE. STUDENTS WILL BE PLACED AUTOMATICALLY IF THEY MEET THE PRE-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS.

Length/Credit: Full Year/1 High School Credit

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

Equipment: A scientific calculator is required. The Texas Instrument TI-83 or TI-84 family of graphing calculators is strongly recommended.

This course is the second math course in the high school math sequence, following Algebra 1, and addresses the Common Core State Standards for high school mathematics. Students will formalize their reasoning skills to write proofs built on definitions, axioms, and theorems. Students will study parallel and perpendicular lines, triangle properties, quadrilateral properties, and properties of other polygons and circles. Other topics that will be studied are similar and congruent figures, right triangle trigonometry, coordinate geometry, geometric transformations, area, surface area and volume of three-dimensional figures. Students will continue to develop problem solving, reasoning and proof, communication, and mathematical modeling skills aligned to the Standards for Mathematical Practice.

 

ALGEBRA II/TRIGONOMETRY

THIS IS NOT A SELF SELECT COURSE. STUDENTS WILL BE PLACED AUTOMATICALLY IF THEY MEET THE PRE-REQUISITE REQUIREMENTS.

Length/Credit: Full Year/1 High School Credit

Prerequisite: Completion of Geometry

Equipment: A scientific calculator is required. The Texas Instrument TI-83 or TI-84 family of graphing calculators is strongly recommended.

Diploma Category: M3 (M1) Students need to be highly self-motivated, as this course is designed for a student preparing to complete AP Prep/IB/College in the High School Precalculus Course. Students will expand their understanding of number systems to include complex numbers and will grow more proficient in their use of algebraic techniques. This course focuses on the study of functions: linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, square root, cubic, and those involving inverse variation. Students will study periodic and trigonometric functions. Other topics that will be studied are combinations and permutations, probability, binomial theorem, measures of variability, and geometric and arithmetic sequences and series.

 

CHALLENGE INTEGRATED SCIENCE 8

Course Length: Full Year

This course is based on the Next Generation Science Standards (Washington State Student Learning Standards) performance expectations for middle school science. Students will engage in science and engineering practices as they learn about disciplinary core ideas across three critical strands—physical science, life science, and earth/space science. Specific units of study will include genes and molecular machines, space system explorations, and energy, force, and motion. Students will incorporate cross-cutting concepts (e.g. structure and function, cause-effect, stability and change, etc.) that support scientific understanding and are applicable across science investigations and labs.

In addition to the course description above, students taking this course must exhibit strong mathematical, verbal, and writing ability, and be self-motivated in completing class work. The Challenge Integrated Science 8 class may move at a faster pace, increase in level of complexity, and include work to be completed independently by the student.

 

AAP INTEGRATED SCIENCE 8

Course Length: Full Year

Students must qualify for placement by participating in the EAP program in elementary school or through a highly capable screening and testing program, which is initiated in the fall by the District. This is not a self-select course; students will be individually scheduled for this course.

This course is intended for students who demonstrate an outstanding aptitude and interest in science and exhibit strong mathematical, verbal and writing ability. Students will be expected to read complex texts, and must be self-motivated and committed to investing time outside of the classroom studies.

Based on the Next Generation Science Standards (Washington State Student Learning Standards) performance expectations for middle school science, students will engage in science and engineering practices as they learn about disciplinary core ideas across three critical strands—physical science, life science, and earth/space science. Science units will include genes and molecular machines, space system explorations, and energy, force and motion. Students will incorporate cross-cutting concepts (e.g. structure and function, cause-effect, stability and change, etc.) that support scientific understanding and are applicable across science investigations and labs.

Students will engage in the same content area as 8th Grade Integrated Science with enrichment and a deeper level of complexity. Students should have the desire to continue with academically advanced science courses.

CHALLENGE UNITED STATES HISTORY

Course Length: Full Year

Prior enrollment in Challenge Social Studies 7-Washington State History is not required. Eighth grade US History is a yearlong course covering the history of the United States from pre-exploration to 1877. Major units of study include: Colonial Era, Revolution, Constitution and the early nation, the Westward Movement, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. Historical topics are explored through the use of primary documents, scholarly readings, experiential exercises and simulations while fostering citizenship and democratic ideals. Eighth graders will complete the eighth grade social studies Classroom Based Assessment (CBA) in the spring. This course addresses the Common Core State Standards for History, prepares the students for the Smarter Balanced State Assessments, and establishes the skills necessary for a successful progression of learning to the next grade level of Social Studies coursework.

In addition to the description above, the Challenge U.S. History course requires participation in at least one major project that requires outside research and work time. As a result, this course may move at a faster pace. This course requires a high-level of reading, writing, listening, discussing and critical thinking skills. Students must have strengths in these skills and be self-motivated to meet the high expectations of this class.

 

AAP UNITED STATES HISTORY

Course Length: Full Year

Note: Students must qualify for placement by participating in the Advanced Academics Program (AAP)/Highly Capable Washington State History/World Geography in 7th grade or through a highly capable screening and testing process. This is not a self-select course; students will be individually scheduled for this course.

This course requires participation in at least one major performance-based project that will require outside research and work time. This course requires high-level reading, writing, and listening, discussing and critical thinking skills. Students must be self- motivated to meet the high expectations of this class. One classroom-based assessment will be administered in the spring. Northshore School District social studies courses incorporate Common Core State Standards in writing and reading for history. Some classes may participate in National History Day (“NHD”). NHD is a rigorous and challenging research project that requires students a minimum of 50 hours independent work outside of the classroom. Historical topics are explored through textbooks and supplementary readings, including speeches, short stories, and documents.

Elective Student Request Policy The following full year and single semester elective descriptions are for electives that NMS intends to offer in the next academic school year. NMS staff will attempt to fulfill student requests; however, final elective course availability depends on student enrollment and school staffing. NMS cannot guarantee that a student will receive any particular elective request.

 

FULL YEAR ELECTIVES

Course Length: Full Year

 

CADET BAND (MUB700A & MUB700B)

Prerequisite: None. This class is open for any student wishing to begin Band.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, and purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, development of sight-reading, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required.

 

CONCERT BAND (MUB510A & MUB510B)

Prerequisite: 1-year prior experience or director approval.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, and purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Goals: To continue the year-to-year progression of proper skills, technique, and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, and music theory, development of sight-reading and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required.

 

SYMPHONIC BAND (MUB520A & MUB520B)

Prerequisite: 2-year minimum prior experience, or audition and director approval.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, and purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Goals: To continue the year-to-year progression of proper skills, technique, and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, and identification with various composers and arrangers, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and the group. Performances are required which can include evening concerts, at-school performances, community programs, league contests and festivals. Performance at the district solo/ensemble contest may be required. Enrollment is required for participation in Jazz Band.

 

CHOIR 8 (MUV830A & MUV830B)

Prerequisite: None.

Requirement: ASB Card.

Goals: To continue the year-to-year progression of proper skills, technique and methods to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of literature for this ensemble and performance of future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary and music theory, development of sight-reading and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required.

 

CONCERTANTE ORCHESTRA (ORCHESTRA 6) (MUO600A & MUO600B)

Prerequisite: None. This class is open for any student wishing to begin Orchestra.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, strings, and rosin, as well as purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, and development of sight-reading and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and group. Performances are required. As students become confident in their abilities, they will perform in three concerts throughout the school year. Home practice is an expected part of the class, as is class participation.

 

OVERTURE ORCHESTRA (ORCHESTRA 7) (MUO700A & MUO700B)

Prerequisite: Minimum one-year middle school orchestra or director permission.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, strings, and rosin, as well as purchase uniform supplies and ASB card at NMS.

The Overture Orchestra class is designed for students who have had 2-3 years playing experience. Students wishing to learn to play string Bass, Cello, Viola, or Violin for the first time should sign up for the Concertante Orchestra above, or talk with Ms. Cramer. As students become confident in their abilities, they will perform in three concerts throughout the school year. Home practice is an expected part of the class, as is class participation.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique, and methods to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique-building, review of basic skill vocabulary, music theory, development of sight-reading, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability and respect toward the individual and the group. Performances are required.

 

SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA (ORCHESTRA 8) (MUO800A & MUO800B)

Prerequisite: Minimum two-year middle school orchestra or director permission.

Requirement: Parents provide instruments, strings, and rosin, as well as purchase uniform supplies, and ASB card at NMS.

The Advanced Orchestra class is designed for students who have had 3 or more years of playing experience. Students wishing to learn to play string Bass, Cello, Viola, or Violin for the first time should sign up for Concertante Orchestra, or talk with ms. Cramer. As students become confident in their abilities, they will perform in three concerts throughout the school year. Home practice is an expected part of the class, as is class participation.

Goals: To continue the progression of proper skills, technique, and methods in order to better understand and appreciate music and music performance. To prepare students for performance of current and future levels of literature.

Assignments: Rehearsal activity will include technique building, review of basic skills, vocabulary, music theory, development of sight-reading, and preparation of performance literature. Attention will be given toward building responsibility, reliability, and respect toward the individual and the group. Performances are required.

 

World Language

SPANISH 100 (WLS100A & WLS100B)

Length/Credit: Full Year High School Academic Transcript Credit

The 8th grade Spanish program at NMS is designed for the student who anticipates pursuing world language study in the fourth and fifth year of Spanish at Inglemoor High School. After completion of the 8th grade Spanish course, students can apply to receive one full high school credit in world language.

Goals: Pronunciation of the language; ability to exchange oral and written information about self and others in the present tense; appreciation of the different cultures; development of a basic vocabulary; students will learn about and be involved in skits, cultures, cuisine, songs and films. This 8th grade Spanish course will cover the same objectives as 100 level high school Spanish.

 

SEMESTER ELECTIVES

Course Length: Semester

 

ART 7/8 (ART780)

Note: This course cannot be repeated within the same school year.

Prerequisite: None.

Art 7/8 introduces students to the elements and principles of art and design, as well as the creative process. Students will study a diverse range of artists and art movements in addition to hands-on projects. Art projects will include a variety of experiences so as to allow students to experiment with materials and methods. We will explore a variety of mediums which may include graphite, pen and ink, charcoal, various paints, printmaking, colored pencils, oil pastel and mixed media. This class is designed to be taken one semester per school year and can be taken as a 7th grader and/or 8th grader. Students will not repeat the same projects as we are on an A/B curriculum schedule.

 

CAD - FOUNDATIONS OF COMPUTER AIDED DRAFTING/DESIGN (TEC780)

Note:  This course can be repeated.

Prerequisite:  None.

Students will learn applications like Tinkercad and Rhinoceros to develop basic 2D and 3D computer drafting and modeling skills. Students will use their designs with output devices like laser cutters, vinyl cutters, and 3D printers to create signs, keyrings, and stickers they can keep.

 

CERAMICS 7/8 (ACE780)

Note: This course cannot be repeated

Prerequisite: None.

Ceramics 7/8 introduces students to the various stages of clay as well as three main techniques for hand building, (pinch, coil, and slab). Using the creative process, students will explore the art and science of clay and glaze, the history of ceramics as an art medium, and the various tools used in these processes. Some projects will focus on learning technique while others are more open-ended, allowing students to creatively apply what they’ve learned. Ceramics is designed to be taken one semester only in 7th or 8th grade and cannot be repeated without teacher approval

 

INTERMEDIATE CERAMICS (ACE781)

Prerequisite:  Ceramics 7/8

Intermediate Ceramics will allow students to continue the various hand-building techniques learned in Ceramics 7/8 while also developing a deeper understanding of glazing and surface techniques. This class is designed to build on the skills learned in the previous class while bringing in more of the students' own creative voice to their work. Intermediate Ceramics is designed to be taken one semester only in 8th grade.

 

COMPUTER SCIENCE I (BCS700)

Note: This course cannot be repeated

Prerequisite: None.

Requirement: Students must be willing to participate in class every day. Typing proficiency is helpful.

This course provides an introduction to coding in Python. Students will explore the many facets of basic programming and applications to the real world with learning about careers in computer science. Students completing this course will be able to create games, animations, and other programs in Python. No prior computer programming experience is necessary, and this course applies to all who are curious about programming.

 

COMPUTER SCIENCE II (BCS800)

Prerequisite: Computer Science I (BCS700), or teacher approval.

Requirement: Students must be willing to participate in class every day. Typing proficiency is helpful.

This course is a continuation in the middle school computer science pathway. Coding concepts include lists, sprites, and functions. Prerequisite for this course is BCS700, or applicable programming experience (instructor approved), as students will utilize previous computer science knowledge to expand their learning.

 

CREATIVE COOKING (HFC700)

Requirement: Students must be willing to work in a fast paced, group-based environment with all members of the class, where cleaning and cooking are expected from every student.

Develop essential cooking and baking skills in this fast paced, semester class. Utilize safe cooking techniques to serve delicious meals like omelets for teachers, compete in class challenges, and participate in the Food Truck competition. You will learn the fundamentals of cooking and baking with dairy, proteins, produce, breads, and desserts. Let’s get cooking!

 

DRAMA 7/8 (DRA780)

Prerequisite: None.

Compose your own one acts, monologues and dialogues. Use face, body, voice, and action plus good vocal skills to gain confidence speaking on stage. Cast yourself as the lead in stories you write and perform. Theater games and improv too!

Skills: Creative thinking, problem solving, improvisation, pantomime, script writing, emotional expression, speaking skills, movement, character development and staging.

Assignments: Skits, scenes, monologues created by the students and their peers.

 

EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY I (TEC700)

Note: This course cannot be repeated

Prerequisite: None.

Students will be engaged in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) design and fabrication activities. This is a hands-on class that focuses on making fun projects while learning the design process. Projects and activities are geared toward exposing students to a range of technologies including wood fabrication, electricity and electronics, engineering design principles, and computer-based technologies. Students will gain an understanding of safe shop practices while completing projects that incorporate a variety of hand and machine tool skills.

 

EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY II (TEC800)

Prerequisite: Exploring Technology I.

Students will be engaged in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) projects while learning the design process. Students will have the opportunity to work with a variety of technologies and process that include some or all of the following: Computer Aided Design (CAD), wood fabrication, electricity and electronics projects, mechanical structures, and CNC output devices (eg. Laser cutting, CNC vinyl cutting). The scientific underpinnings of the projects are often explored as part of the design and fabrication process.

 

GOURMET FOODS (HFG800)

Requirement: Students must be willing to work in a fast paced, group-based environment with all members of the class, where cleaning and cooking are expected from every student.

Explore the world of food in this fast-paced semester class! Try new cuisines, experience cultures unlike your own, and grow in confidence in the kitchen. Spend time learning about the basics of cooking and baking through an introduction to cooking dairy, proteins, produce, and desserts. Enjoy classics like pasta and pizza while tasting new recipes like semifreddo, paella, and more! End the semester with an international food festival competition with your peers to show off your new skills. Bon appetit!

 

NMS CAFÉ (HFC900)

Note: This course cannot be repeated

Prerequisite: Application required – see counselor. Student must have completed prior course (Creative Cooking or Gourmet Foods) with a B+ or better final grade and obtain teacher’s approval.

Requirement: Students must be willing to work in a fast paced, group-based environment with all members of the class, where cleaning and cooking are expected from every student.

A culminating course for 8th grade cooking students, NMS Cafe provides real life opportunities to run a monthly store front utilizing their culinary skills and business savviness. Students will plan, budget, prepare, display, sell, and advertise for the Cafe.

 

OFFICE/TEACHER/LIBRARY ASSISTANT 8 (YTA780)

Prerequisite: Application required - contact Counselor

Pass/Fail grade only

Goals: Students will learn office procedures. Students will be assigned to assist in a classroom, main office, attendance/counseling office, or library.

Skills: Students are expected to be responsible, courteous, helpful, and have good attendance. Students will alphabetize, file, record information, and deliver messages. Students will work on Homework or read a library book, if not needed for office duties.

 

PEER TUTOR CONTAINED LEARNING CENTER (CLC) 8 (YYN075)

Prerequisite: Application required - contact Counselor

Goals: To become familiar with the way typical children learn and how learning disabilities affect this learning.

Skills: Students will learn to work with and better understand their peers who have special needs. They will use this knowledge to mentor students with disabilities in the CLC classroom. The students will be responsible for teaching CLC student academics, daily living, and social skills

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 7/8 (PPE780)

Requirements: NMS uniform: Light gray crew-neck t-shirt, navy or black basketball style shorts (7-9-inch inseam) and tennis shoes. Sweats are recommended, but not required. Uniforms can be purchased in the NMS Main Office.

Goals: This course is designed to offer students the opportunity to participate in a wide variety of team and individual sports. Activities may include basketball, soccer, floor hockey, flag football, softball, golf, tennis, archery, disc sports, bowling, ultimate Frisbee, volleyball, badminton and capture the flag. There is a minimum of one cardio-respiratory fitness activity per week. A minimum of 2 block days will focus on game play.Curriculum will vary upon the time of year the class is offered and availability of the facilities.

Assignments: Daily participation in a variety of activities, and a weekly activity log.

 

ROBOTICS FOUNDATIONS (TER780)

Prerequisite: None.

This course is designed as an introductory STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) class where students learn engineering, technical and programming skills through hands on projects and experiences. The core of the class centers around students working with the Lego EV-3 robotic platform. Students work with interactive multimedia curriculum and instructions in order to build and program their robots to meet fun challenges. These activities require students to develop skills and strategies to solve problems. Other technologies may be explored in addition to the EV-3 platform depending on time and class pacing and needs. Additional potential activities include Micro:bit microprocessors, Arduino microprocessors, TeacherGeek Bug electronics lab project and others.

 

SERVICE LEARNING/LEADERSHIP (YYN805)

Requirements:   Community Service Projects

Elected ASB Officers may be required to sign up for at least one semester.

In this course, students will develop and apply principles of exemplary leadership via active service to our community. Students will participate in democratic, collaborative processes and projects to plan school-related activities that will enhance school culture and climate. This class will frequently work in the classrooms of our neighboring Woodmoor Elementary School, assisting younger students while developing and practicing leadership skills taught in class. Students will develop and implement service events to impact local and/or international communities. Throughout the course, students will learn practical tips for communicating effectively through email, visual formats, and public speaking, and develop personal life skills in the following areas: Leadership, Excellence, Acceptance, and Determination.

 

YEARBOOK/JOURNALISM (ENG870)

Prerequisite: None.

Yearbook/Journalism is a course designed to develop students' skills in the production of the school yearbook and yearbook specific journalism. Students learn basic principles of yearbook production and develop skills that include writing copy, story lines, captions and headlines; digital photography; desktop publishing and using appropriate technology tools for media production.