Academics

8102FAA Artistic Journeys (7^th Grade Course)

This daily, semester course will allow each student to experience art from different times and places. Students will use the work of historical and contemporary artists as an inspiration and beginning point to creating their own art. The course will give students time to experiment and discover “who” they are as an artist. Students will use a variety of approaches to build artistic skills.

8103FAA Art Upgraded (8^th Grade Course)

This daily, semester course will allow students to step into the exciting world and role of artist and designer. Students will experiment and build skills with a variety of media and artistic tools. Art Upgraded will provide an opportunity to create art with a design focus and discover the power of the creative process.

8202FATH Theatrical Arts (7^th Grade Course)

This daily, semester course will introduce students to a variety of speech and theatre topics. Students will sharpen personal communication skills by preparing, presenting, and evaluating performance-based activities. Improvisation skills, group communication and problem solving will also be explored through games and activities. Students will be invited to display their learned skills through a variety of performance options such as, but not limited to: storytelling, prose, duet acting, and a variety of other events. Emphasis will be placed on in class performance and creative projects that will enhance student’s knowledge and appreciation of the theater and oral interpretation.

8203FATH Theatrical Arts (8^th Grade Course)*

This daily, semester performance-based course will advance student knowledge in the art of acting and the skills of public performance. *Students will be required to participate in an outside-of -school performance as part of their grade, which may include some required rehearsal time outside of school hours. 

8204FATH Speech/Debate (8^th Grade Course)

This daily, semester course introduces students to many practical elements of public speaking, including techniques to lessen speaker anxiety, and the use of visual aids to enhance speaker presentations. Students will research, organize, and present various types of speeches. Good command of reading and writing will be needed to be successful in this course. This is a performance-based course, and students will be required to deliver speeches in front of peers to fulfill course requirements. In addition to public speaking, this course will explore the basics of Public Forum Debate.

8301FAMB 6^th Grade Beginning Band

This is a daily, year-long course. Sixth Grade Beginning Band is the first band opportunity for students in the CPS district. Students choose an instrument during their fifth-grade year after attending an Enrollment Night or by contacting the instrumental instructors at the middle school where the student will be enrolled. Emphasis in sixth grade band is on developing musical skills that lead to the art of performing. Students develop additional skills in writing music, music technology, and the culture of music performance.

8302FAMB Intermediate Band (7^th Grade Course)

This is a year-long, daily course, typically taken by seventh graders. Intermediate Band is a musical experience that provides students with 2nd year training on woodwind, brass, or percussion instruments. The primary focus is on the development and expansion of musical skills that lead to rewarding performance experiences. In addition to large group ensembles, individual growth and achievement are encouraged through new opportunities such as solo and ensemble contests, Honor Bands, and a heightened emphasis on music technology.

8303FAMB Advanced Band (8^th Grade Course)

This is a year-long, daily course, typically taken by eighth graders. This advanced-level band class emphasizes the development of full-band performance skills in preparation for concerts and competitions. The elements of more complex melody and harmony and interpretation are addressed, and a higher level of technical playing proficiency is developed and enjoyed in multiple performing opportunities. Individual growth and achievement are encouraged through the use of integrated technology, solo and ensemble contests and festivals, and Honor Bands.

8401FAMS 6^th Grade Beginning Orchestra

This is a daily, year-long course. Sixth Grade Beginning Orchestra is the first orchestra opportunity for students in the CPS district. Students choose an instrument during their fifth grade year after attending an Enrollment Night or by contacting the instrumental instructors at the middle school where the student will be enrolled. Emphasis in sixth grade orchestra is on developing musical skills that lead to the art of performing. Students develop additional skills in writing music, music technology, and the culture of music performance.

8402FAMS Intermediate Orchestra (7^th Grade Course)

This is a year-long, daily course, typically taken by seventh graders. Intermediate Orchestra is a musical experience that provides students with 2nd year training on string instruments. The primary focus is on the development and expansion of musical skills that lead to rewarding performance experiences. In addition to large group ensembles, individual growth and achievement are encouraged through new opportunities such as solo and ensemble contests, Honors Orchestra, and a heightened emphasis on music technology.

8403FAMS Advanced Orchestra (8^th Grade Course)

This is a year-long, daily course, typically taken by eighth graders. This Advanced-Level Orchestra class emphasizes the development of full string ensemble performance skills in preparation for concerts and competitions. The elements of more complex melody and harmony and interpretation are addressed. A higher level of technical playing proficiency is developed and enjoyed in multiple performing opportunities. Individual growth and achievement are encouraged through the use of integrated technology, solo and ensemble contests and festivals, and Honors Orchestra.

8502FAMV Choir (7^th Grade Course)

This daily, year- long course will allow students/singers to study a variety of music from different styles, time periods and cultures. Through classroom activities, daily singing and a minimum of two public after school or evening performances a year, students further develop their creativity, knowledge of elements of music, proper vocal technique, music history and music reading/theory skills **This course may be taken for one semester if desired, but students should complete the first semester if only one semester is taken.

8503FAMV Choir (8th Grade Course)

This daily, yearlong course will allow students/singers to study a variety of music from different styles, time periods and cultures. Through classroom activities, daily singing and performance, students further develop their creativity, knowledge of elements of music, proper vocal technique, music history and music reading/theory skills. Students will sing a wide variety of quality choral music and will participate in a minimum of two public after school or evening performances a year **This course may be taken for one semester if desired, but students should complete the first semester if only one semester is taken.

8504FAMV Advanced Choir (8^th Grade Course)

This daily, auditioned, yearlong course will allow students/singers to study a variety of music from different styles, time periods, and cultures. Through classroom activities, daily singing and performance, students further develop their creativity, knowledge of elements of music, proper vocal technique, music history, and music reading/theory skills. Students will sing a wide variety of quality choral music and will participate in a minimum of two public, after-school and/or evening performances a year. Additional opportunities for performance are likely to be available.

7106PA Inventions and Innovations (7^th Grade Course)

This daily semester course focuses on Design and Modeling. Design and Modeling (DM) provides students with opportunities to apply the design process to creatively solve problems. Students learn to sketch, model, and print design ideas using 3-D modeling software. Utilizing 3-D printers and power tools, students can actually build what they design. Students work together to identify design requirements, research topics, and develop solutions.

7141PA Automation and Robotics (8^th Grade Course)

In this daily semester course, Automation and Robotics (AR) allows students to learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use the VEX Robotics® platform to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, draw bridges, toll booths, and robotic arms.

7150PA Aeronautics and Engineering (8^th Grade Course)

In this daily semester course, Aeronautics and Engineering (AE) students will design and build things that fly which may include gliders, rockets, and kites. In addition, students will use the engineering design process to create projects using technology such as hand tools, power tools, modeling software, and 3-D printers.

7107PA 7^th Grade Business and Computers

Emphasis: Career Readiness & Money Management

This semester-long course will provide you with the opportunity to expand your creative computer abilities while investigating potential careers and basic money management topics. Improve your keyboarding, word processing, presentation, spreadsheet, Internet research, and digital media skills and map out a path to a successful future.

7201PA 8^th Grade Business and Computers

Emphasis: Business Simulation

This semester-long course will provide you with the opportunity to expand your creative computer abilities while building a foundation of business and leadership skills. Project-based learning will help give you a competitive edge in school, work, and life. You will learn about Google Docs, Sheets, Slides, Forms, Drawings and how to use them in the business world.

7705PA Computer Science Discoveries (8^th grade only)

Emphasis: Coding & Creating Applications

Computer Science Discoveries is an advanced, one-semester course that aims to demystify computer science and make “coding” and creating with computers fun and collaborative. You will learn basic coding concepts and problem-solving skills, with opportunities to explore various multimedia computer applications. Project-based learning will provide you with “real-world” experiences to help prepare you for higher education and professions in the Information Age.

7304PA 7^th Grade Family and Consumer Sciences

This is a daily, one semester course that will help seventh grade students expand their knowledge of Family and Consumer Sciences. Students will have the opportunity to build healthy relationships, continue developing cooking skills, and further their sewing skills through the construction of various projects.

7504PA 8^th Grade Family and Consumer Sciences

In this daily, one semester course, eighth grade students will take a more in-depth approach to expand their knowledge of Family and Consumer Sciences. Students will have the opportunity to improve their skills in the kitchen by mastering the basic essentials of food preparation. Hand and machine sewing skills will be developed by completing a variety of projects. Basic design concepts will be introduced. Cooperation, problem solving, and evaluation skills are integrated into the curriculum. This course is open to all skill levels.

1631EL AVID 7^th Grade Elective Class (Application and Interview Required)

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a year-long academic elective course that prepares students for college readiness and success. Each week, students receive instruction utilizing a rigorous college preparatory curriculum provided by AVID Center, tutor-facilitated study groups, motivational activities, and academic success skills. In AVID, students participate in activities incorporating strategies focused on writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading to support their academic growth.

The seventh-grade AVID Elective course builds upon the components of the AVID philosophy. Students will refine short- and long-term goals and, as a result, begin to understand the value of taking charge of their actions. Students will start working on intrapersonal and interpersonal skills and formal and informal speech. Students will complete self-evaluations and peer evaluations on reading, writing, organization, and speaking. Students will consider audience, purpose, and form in broadening their writing practice. Students will take an active role in their learning, understanding the roles of all members in assignments and collaborative lessons. They will expand their knowledge bases of note-taking in relation to studying and test preparation. Students will be exposed to different field trips, guest speakers, and research to increase their knowledge of college and career options.

1632EL AVID 8^th Grade AVID Elective Class (Application and Interview Required)

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a year-long academic elective course that prepares students for college readiness and success. Each week, students receive instruction utilizing a rigorous college preparatory curriculum provided by AVID Center, tutor-facilitated study groups, motivational activities, and academic success skills. In AVID, students participate in activities incorporating strategies focused on writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading to support their academic growth.

The eighth-grade AVID Elective course is the year of preparation for high school. The students will regularly exhibit and utilize the skills and strategies learned in the seventh-grade AVID course. Students will refine previous goals, focusing on their transition to high school as part of a college preparatory path. Their writing will focus on completing all steps of the writing process and varying style, word choice, vocabulary, structure, and voice. Major writing assignments include persuasive, expository, descriptive, and timed writing. Students will transition from active learners to leaders. Other areas of focus include increasing the use of technology and building upon their test preparation and test-taking knowledge. They will broaden their experiences by analyzing text and utilizing appropriate reading strategies in various settings. Students will become more involved in the presentations of guest speakers and field trips, particularly as they relate to preparation and prior knowledge. Students will also participate in college preparatory testing and build connections with the high school they will attend. Students enrolled in AVID are required to enroll in at least one challenging course. Challenging courses could include 8th Honors Algebra, any World Language course, or another course approved by the AVID site team.

Courses offered in unique settings:

1405EL PEER Ambassadors (Application and Interview Required)

The Peer Ambassadors class is a Character Education class that combines service and a unique concept known as Teen Court. The class is designed for students who show leadership potential and offer support and challenges to help students reach their full potential. Students will be admitted to the class based upon their application, teacher recommendation, attendance and school performance. (Lange Middle School Only)

2160EN English 6

This course is designed to deepen student literacy skills in the areas of reading literary text, reading informational text, writing, and speaking/listening. The Missouri Learning Standards will serve as a basis for this course. Some of the skills and topics sixth grade students will focus on include: analysis, text evidence/inference, text features, summarization/theme/claim, central and main idea, media, argumentation/evidence, research, writing development, narrative/informational/argument writing, and speaking/listening concepts.

2170EN English 7

This course is designed to deepen student literacy skills in the areas of reading literary text, reading informational text, writing, and speaking/listening. The Missouri Learning Standards will serve as a basis for this course. Some of the skills and topics seventh grade students will focus on include: analysis, text evidence/inference, text features, summarization/theme/claim, central and main idea, media, argumentation/evidence, research, writing development, narrative/informational/argument writing, and speaking/listening concepts. This course builds on concepts from sixth grade.

2180EN English 8

This course is designed to deepen student literacy skills in the areas of reading literary text, reading informational text, writing, and speaking/listening. The Missouri Learning Standards will serve as a basis for this course. Some of the skills and topics eighth grade students will focus on include: analysis, text evidence/inference, text features, summarization/theme/claim, central and main idea, media, argumentation/evidence, research, writing development, narrative/informational/argument writing, and speaking/listening concepts. This course builds on concepts from seventh grade.

2284EN Advanced English 8 Link (must also take Advanced Social Studies 8 Link)

The 8^thgrade Advanced English Link course is accelerated which means it covers the regular 8^th grade ELA standards along with additional standards and is integrated with the Advanced Social Studies 8 Link class. Students should expect daily, challenging out-of-class assignments and a fast pace. This is a good course for students who want an extra challenge in 8^th grade and may want to enroll in a Block class in high school.

2250LA Reading Workshop

This intervention reading course (offered sixth through eighth grade) is designed to teach literacy strategies to students who struggle with aspects of reading as determined by multiple literacy assessment measures and teacher recommendations. Students will participate in whole group and small group instruction as well as spend significant time in independent reading of fiction and nonfiction texts, working to meet personal reading goals centered on mastery of various comprehension strategies. Reading scores will determine placement. (This class takes the place of an elective choice.)

Online High School English Elective

The online high school English elective class is an additional ELA option for 8^th graders that can be taken instead of English 8.

The specifics are as follows: 

• students will have their own device and will be enrolled in an RTI/AcLab class instead of English 8 and students will also take Social Studies 8
• students will use this time daily to progress independently through an online high school class (adhering to all rules, requirements, and policies as they are written for high school students),

• students will get to choose a high school English class from a list of classes available (either one year-long class or two semester classes)

• grades will be reported by the high school teacher through the online system,

• students will earn a high school elective (not English) credit, and 

• participating in this program will not affect high school GPAs or future course options in high school. This is not a weighted course.

Is an asynchronous high school English elective class right for my child?

Students who are self-directed and are motivated to work independently on high school course work might be good candidates for one of these online courses. Please note that this class counts as a high school elective (not an English credit).

Successful online students should be able to demonstrate:

• Self-motivation
• Ability to learn independently
• Strong personal commitment
• Effective communication skills
• Time management skills
• Successful completion of required assignments
• Willingness to ask for help and be vocal when there are problems, conflicts, or questions.

All classes will be taught by CPS teachers asynchronously which means that students are responsible for time management, goal setting, and reaching out to the instructor with questions..  The course options available for the 2023-24 school year.

There are procedures and engagement requirements for CPS Online. Please review the Parent/Guardian & Student Handbook to learn about these requirements.

To enroll in this option, please just write the appropriate course title(s) on your 8^th grade enrollment form.

3000WL 6^th Grade World Languages Exploration

In this daily nine-week course, students will learn about the world through French and Spanish. Students will learn short conversations and basic vocabulary in each language. Students will gain a global perspective through various activities about the cultures of these countries through food, stories, and songs. In addition, students will learn where each of these languages is spoken, about their peers and their daily lives in these countries.

1602EL 6^th Grade Life Readiness

This daily nine-week class is designed to increase the knowledge of careers and post secondary options. Students will learn about post-secondary options and begin to understand their availability. They will also explore careers and potential college majors based on interests.

7101PA 6^th Grade Exploring Technology

This is a daily nine-week exploratory class. Exploring Technology is an activity-based course where students will learn about the subject of technology through various hands-on activities. The activities are engineering in nature, meaning that students will be using math, science and technology to build, analyze, and test solutions to specific design problems. Exploring Technology is truly a "learn-by-doing" class, in which students learn safety, woodworking, 3-D printing, automation, and rocketry.

8101FAA 6^th Grade Art

This daily nine-week art class challenges middle school students to discover their abilities and place in the community. This course allows students to develop creative and critical thinking skills, solve problems and communicate effectively within and beyond the classroom. Students will utilize a variety of art media to create two- and three-dimensional art works while building an appreciation for, and drawing inspiration from, many ancient cultures.

8501FAMV 6^th Grade Choir

This daily nine-week exploratory class enables students to explore the singing and choral arts. Students will continue to develop their music literacy skills (rhythmic and melodic), learn music history and styles, and experience music through singing/performing, technology, and playing some instruments.

8201FATH 6^th Grade Theatrical Arts

This daily nine-week exploratory class introduces students to the basics of theatre arts topics, which will include pantomime, script reading, improvisation, movement and audience behavior.

7102PA 6^th Grade Exploring Computers

Emphasis: Technology Readiness & Digital Citizenship

This nine-week exploratory course covers fundamental computer skills needed in school and work. Keyboarding, internet safety and research, productivity software and cloud based technologies will be used to create documents, and presentations similar to what will be required in middle and high school classes as well as many professions.

7300PA 6^th Grade Family and Consumer Sciences

This is a daily nine-week exploratory course designed to introduce students to Family and Consumer Sciences. Students will develop introductory food preparation skills, construct a sewing project using the sewing machine and be introduced to the business of babysitting. All course activities will emphasize safety and teamwork in an interactive environment.

3105WL French 1A (7^th grade)

Level 1A is the beginning language course offered in 7^th grade. Students will develop skills in reading, writing, listening and speaking, as well as how to study and learn a language. Students will learn pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammatical structures through a variety of activities. The geography, customs, traditions, and culture of the French-speaking world are introduced. Students satisfactorily completing the 1A course in 7^th grade will enroll in 1B in 8^th grade.

3110WL French 1B (8^th grade)

Level 1B is the continuation of 1A. Students will continue to develop skills in reading, writing, listening, speaking and how to learn a language. Students will revisit concepts learned in 1A and continue to learn pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammatical structures through a variety of activities. Studies of geography, customs, traditions, and culture of the French-speaking world are expanded. Students satisfactorily completing the level 1B course will be prepared for and enroll in level 2 in 9^th grade.

3120WL French 1 (8^th grade)

In level 1, students will develop skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will learn pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammatical structures through a variety of activities. The geography, customs, traditions, and culture of the French-speaking world are introduced. Students satisfactorily completing the level 1 course will be prepared for and enroll in level 2 in 9^th grade.

1806PE Health and Physical Education 6

1807PE Health and Physical Education 7

1808PE Health and Physical Education 8

Health and physical education classes will stress individual skill development, cooperation through team play, and developing and maintaining personal fitness levels. Physical education promotes individual development physically, emotionally, socially and mentally through a variety of team, dual, individual sports, recreational/leisure, and other fitness activities. This course will encourage the development of specific skills necessary to increase fitness knowledge, increase participation in physical activity and lead to overall better individual health.

Health Education concepts will be taught in the physical education class setting. These topics are designed to increase the knowledge of the human body and raise awareness of health-related issues. A variety of topics such as safety education, mental & emotional health, nutrition concepts, disease education, substance education , and adolescent health/human sexuality will be taught each year based on the appropriate level for each grade level, using state grade level outcomes as the basis for assessment and learning

5380MA Math 6

Grade 6 mathematics is aligned with the Missouri Learning Standards with the focus on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of number to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers; (3) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and (4) developing understanding of statistical thinking.

5385MA Advanced Math 6

The 6th grade Advanced math course is accelerated which means it covers the 6th grade standards as well as half of the 7th grade standards. Students should expect daily, challenging out-of-class assignments and a quicker pace through the curriculum. This is a good course for students who want an extra challenge in mathematics in the 6th grade. This course puts the student on the path to take Algebra 1 honors in 8^th grade.

5480MA Math 7

Grade 7 mathematics is aligned with the Missouri Learning Standards with the focus of instructional time spent in four critical areas: (1) developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships; (2) developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations; (3) solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions, and working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume; and (4) drawing inferences about populations based on samples.

5485MA Advanced Math 7

The 7^th grade Advanced math course is accelerated and covers the second half of the 7^th grade standards as well as the 8^th grade Pre-Algebra standards. Like Advanced Math 6, students should expect daily, challenging out-of-class assignments and a quicker pace through the curriculum. Students successfully completing this course will be prepared to take Algebra 1 Honors in the eighth grade.

5580MA Pre-Algebra (8th grade)

Grade 8 Pre-Algebra is aligned with the Missouri Learning Standards with the focus on three critical areas:

1. formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations;
2. grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships;
3. analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem.

5622MA Algebra 1 Honors

Algebra 1 Honors is a complete 1-year high school level algebra course. Students will explore linear, exponential and quadratic functions. They will compare their key characteristics, and translate between graphical, numerical and symbolic representations of them. They will create and solve equations, inequalities, and systems of equations involving these functions. Additionally, they will extend the laws of exponents to rational exponents and analyze both categorical and quantitative data using statistical techniques. Students should expect daily, challenging out-of-class assignments. Successful completion of this course will satisfy prerequisites for Geometry and earn the student 1.0 high school math credit. Graphing calculators are used in this class.

5652MA Geometry Honors

Prerequisite: Algebra 1

Geometry Honors is a complete 1-year high school level geometry course. The fundamental purpose of this course is to formalize and extend students’ geometric experiences with transformations, congruence, similarity, area and volume, and probability. Students explore more complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships, moving towards formal mathematical arguments (proofs). Students will also apply algebraic skills to geometric concepts. Successful completion of this course will earn the student 1.0 high school math credit.

Addendum: Mathematics course acceleration:

In addition to the course offerings described in this booklet, there is also the opportunity for extremely high achieving students to skip Advanced Math 7 and enroll in Algebra 1 Honors in 7^th grade. The decision to place a student in Algebra 1 Honors in 7^th grade is based on the following indicators: An IAAT (Iowa Algebra Aptitude Test) score of 95 or above; teacher recommendation; MAP score of Advanced; strong interest and desire to learn mathematics; resilience and strong work habits. Those students wanting to be considered for Algebra 1 Honors in 7^th grade need to notify their teacher in February and the teacher will make arrangements for the IAAT to be given. Please also consider the progression of classes through high school (see next page) as you make your decisions. Please be advised that students who take a different than typical math class for their grade level may have a conflict with other elective choices.

For any questions, please don't hesitate to contact Melissa Fike, our 6-12 Mathematics Coordinator, at mfike@cpsk12.org or (573) 214-3920. We look forward to assisting you.

6601SC Science 6

Semester 1: Students will spend the first semester focusing on the physical sciences of our world. Whether it is discovering the principles of forces and motion or types of energy in our world, students will have a greater appreciation of how things move.

This semester will focus on:

• Energy: This unit explores the idea that interactions of objects can be explained and predicted using the concept of transfer of energy from one object or system of objects to another. The total energy within a defined system changes only by the transfer of energy into or out of the system. Students will experiment with kinetic and potential energy, heat energy, electrical energy, and chemical energy.
• Motion and Stability: Forces and Interactions: This unit will create an understanding that the forces between objects are important for describing how their motions change, as well as for predicting stability or instability in systems at any scale.

Semester 2: Students will spend the second semester discovering that life science focuses on patterns, processes, and relationships of living organisms Whether it is an ecosystem, a star, Earth’s atmosphere, a river, a bicycle, the human brain or a living cell, it has a cycle of energy that helps sustain it.

This semester will focus on:

• Molecules to Organisms: Structures and Processes: This unit addresses how individual organisms are configured and how these structures function to support life, growth, behavior, and reproduction.
• Ecosystems: Interactions, Energy, and Dynamics: This unit takes what is learned about cells and explores organisms’ interactions with each other and their physical environment. This includes how an organism obtains resources, how they change their environment, how changing environmental factors affect organisms and ecosystems, how social interactions and group behavior play out within and among species, and how these factors all combine to determine ecosystem functioning.

6602SC Science 7

Semester 1: Students will spend the first semester discovering that most systems depend on the physical and chemical processes that occur within it, whether the system in question is a star, Earth’s atmosphere, a river, a bicycle, the human brain or a living cell.

This semester will focus on:

• Matter and its Interactions: This unit will create an understanding that all substances are made from some 100 different types of atoms, which combine with one another in various ways. Atoms have substructures of their own and can combine into many different molecules with their own characteristics. Students will also explore how substances combine or react to make new substances.
• Earth and Human Activity: This unit addresses society’s interactions with the planet. Connecting the Earth and space sciences to the intimate scale of human life, this idea explains how Earth’s processes affect people through natural resources and natural hazards, and it describes as well some of the ways in which humanity in turn affects Earth’s processes.

Semester 2: Students will spend the second semester learning about the driving forces that shape our Earth, including atmospheric and societal issues.

• Earth’s Systems: Weather, Climate, and Water: This unit encompasses the processes that drive Earth’s conditions and its continuing evolution. The unit also focuses on the vital role that water plays in all of the planet’s systems and surface processes.
• Waves and their Applications: This unit explores waves that transfer energy and information as well as their characteristic properties and behaviors. Students will explore how waves are used by scientists in life, earth, and physical sciences. Earth and Human Activity: This unit continues throughout the second semester and addresses society’s interactions with the planet. Connecting the Earth and space sciences to the intimate scale of human life, this idea explains how Earth’s processes affect people through natural resources and natural hazards, and it describes as well some of the ways in which humanity in turn affects Earth’s processes.

6603SC Science 8

Semester 1: Students will spend the first semester investigating geological processes that operate on Earth while also addressing its place in the solar system and the galaxy. The study of earth and space sciences involves understanding phenomena through the use of modeling. Phenomena that are studied range in scale from the unimaginably large to the invisibly small.

• Earth’s Place in the Universe: This unit explores the Solar System as a whole, while analyzing the scale of the Sun, planets, moons, and other celestial objects. An emphasis is given to the patterns that occur as a result of interactions among objects within the Solar System.
• Earth’s Systems: Geology: This unit explores the Earth’s materials and how they interact above and below the surface. Students will study Plate Tectonics - the unifying theory that explains the past and present movements of the continents. The study of maps of ancient land and water patterns, based on investigations of rock layers and fossils, provide a coherent account of Earth’s geological history and describe how Earth’s tectonic plates have moved, collided, and diverged over time.

Semester 2: Students will spend the second semester investigating life science while focusing on patterns, processes, and relationships of living organisms with their environment. Life is continually evolving to better fit its environment.

• Heredity & Introduction to Genetics: This unit focuses on the flow of genetic information between generations. Students will study the patterns of genetic inheritance and describe the environmental and genetic influences of gene mutation and gene expression.
• Adaptation & Natural and Artificial Selection: Evolution is a change in a population of organisms over time. It is key to understanding both the unity and the diversity of life on Earth. Survival and evolution are driven by physical and behavioral adaptations that arise from genetic mutations. Adaptations help a particular organism survive in its environment and reproduce with greater success. Students will study how species change over time driven by environmental and human forces.

6604SC Advanced Science 8

The 8^th grade Advanced science course is accelerated which means it covers the regular 8^th grade standards as well as additional science standards. Students should expect daily, challenging out-of-class assignments and a fast pace through the curriculum. This is a good course for students who want an extra challenge in science in the 8^th grade.

4106SS Social Studies 6: The Ancient World I

This course is designed to enable students to understand how and why world civilizations have developed and changed over time. It seeks to expose students to the history, geography, culture, and government / economic systems of the following societies: Prehistoric Humans, Ancient Mesopotamia, Ancient Egypt, Ancient India/South Asia, Ancient Japan, and Ancient China. Students will hone their reading, writing, and disciplinary thinking skills as they engage in inquiries such as how does the environment affect the way that civilizations develop or how do civilizations leave a lasting impact on the future of the world?

4107SS Social Studies 7: The Ancient World II

This course is designed to continue expanding students’ understanding of how and why world civilizations have developed and changed over time. It seeks to expose students to the history, geography, culture, and government / economic systems of the following societies: Ancient Greece, Ancient Rome, Medieval Europe, Africa, and Latin America, through the Age of Exploration. Students will hone their reading, writing, and disciplinary thinking skills as they explore how power is gained, used, justified, and lost in a civilization and what happens when civilizations collide with one another?

4108SS Social Studies 8: The Early United States of America

This course is designed to allow students to discover how conflict, compromise, and change shaped the formation and early years of the United States. Students will study the historical, geographical, cultural, civic, and economic aspects of a variety of case studies ranging from European exploration and settlement of North America to the aftermath of the Civil War. Students will hone their reading, writing, and disciplinary thinking skills as they engage in inquiries such as how did decisions made by early US presidents influence the development of American society or how and why did relations between Northern and Southern states deteriorate in the 1800’s.

4204SS Advanced Social Studies 8 Link (must also take Advanced English 8 Link)

The 8^th grade Advanced Social Studies Link course is accelerated which means it covers the regular 8^th grade Social Studies standards along with additional standards and is integrated with the Advanced English 8 Link class. Students should expect daily, challenging out-of-class assignments and a fast pace. This is a good course for students who want an extra challenge in 8^th grade and may want to enroll in a Block class in high school.

3605WL Spanish 1A (7^th grade)

Level 1A is the beginning language course offered in 7^th grade. Students will develop skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking, as well as how to study and learn a language. Students will learn pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammatical structures through a variety of activities. The geography, customs, traditions, and culture of the Spanish- speaking world are introduced. Students satisfactorily completing the 1A course in 7^th grade will enroll in 1B in 8^th grade.

3610WL Spanish 1B (8^th grade)

Level 1B is the continuation of 1A. Students will continue to develop skills in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and how to learn a language. Students will revisit concepts learned in 1A and continue to learn pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammatical structures through a variety of activities. Studies of geography, customs, traditions, and culture of the Spanish-speaking world are expanded. Students satisfactorily completing the level 1B course will be prepared and enroll in level 2 in 9^th grade.

3615WL Spanish 1 (8^th grade)

In level 1, students will develop skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will learn pronunciation, vocabulary, and grammatical structures through a variety of activities. The geography, customs, traditions, and culture of the Spanish-speaking world are introduced. Students satisfactorily completing the level 1 course will be prepared and enroll in level 2 in 9^th grade.

General Information on all World Languages

Students who successfully complete a level 2 language course will have met the World Language admission requirement of the University of Missouri and some other four-year public colleges in Missouri. At MU and many other colleges, students who have completed four levels of a World Language in high school are at an advantage with many post- secondary institutions. They may be exempt from the 3-semester language requirement of many degree programs. Students must check with the college they plan to attend about advanced credit policies. World Language courses are not required for high school graduation.

The Seal of BiLiteracy is an award given to students who can demonstrate proficiency in two languages by graduation. To reach this level of proficiency in a language other than English, students generally need to complete a language study through level 4.

Language acquisition is a process that builds on previous knowledge. It takes disciplined study habits over a long period of time to learn another language. Daily homework, class participation, and consistent attendanceare essential for success in any World Languages class. Throughout the year, teachers will be assessing student proficiency of the essential curriculum in order to help the student determine the course in which he/she should enroll the following year. Students who would like to begin the study of Latin, German, Japanese or Mandarin Chinese will be able to take these classes beginning in 9^th grade at the high schools.