Smithton Electives

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.

 8301FAMB 6th 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.

 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.

 

Semester Courses

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Yearlong Courses

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.

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.

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.

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.

 

Semester Courses

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

 

Yearlong Courses

 

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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.