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- Liberty Middle School
- Course Description Guide
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7th and 8th grade Electives
7th and 8th Grade Electives
Spanish IA (7th grade) (Year Long)
This course is a continuation of Spanish A. Students work through the second half of the high school level text started in Spanish A. Using a variety of materials, students will focus on cultural appreciation, listening comprehension, oral, reading and writing proficiencies. There is an increased emphasis on the Cherry Creek District World Language Proficiencies of listening, reading, writing, speaking, and culture. Completion of this course prepares students for Level II Spanish.
Spanish II (8th grade) (Year Long)
This course is the next level of Spanish after completing IA and IB. The content and pacing of this class is the same as a high school level two language class. Using a variety of materials, students will focus on communication and cultural proficiencies. There is an increased emphasis on the production of the language in the forms of reading, writing, listening and speaking. Completion of this course should prepare students for Level III Spanish.
Spanish Language Exploratory (8th Grade) (Semester Long)
This course emphasizes communication through speaking, reading and writing in the target language. Students work through the first half of a textbook designed for a high school level I Spanish course. Along with a variety of other materials students will focus on cultural appreciation, listening comprehension, oral, reading and writing proficiencies. Students who bring a positive attitude and try their best every day will learn a ton! Completion of this course will help students succeed in high school Spanish 1 classes.
Performing Arts
Choir Select (Year Long)- 7th and 8th grades
Students in vocal music classes will grow as singers, musicians, and good human beings. As singers, students will establish solid vocal technique, learn to sing as soloists and in harmony, and expand their vocal range, power, and accuracy. As musicians, students will gain proficiency and fluency with reading music, sing a variety of musical genres and styles, and develop a nuanced sense of intonation, rhythm, and expression. As people who are starting to grow up, students will practice self-awareness and personal responsibility, learn the value of hard work and teamwork, and foster friendships and a sense a community unlike any other. All experience levels are welcome in Choir! Every class will have at least two graded performance opportunities per semester, usually in the evening.
Band (Year Long)- 7th and 8th grades
Development of the fundamental instrumental techniques and musical expressions is emphasized and practiced. Students are required to provide their own instrument and method book. (Some larger instruments are available through Liberty for a yearly fee.) Band instrumentation includes flute, oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion (including bells). Information for rental/purchase of instruments will be given to students at an Instrumental Music night at the beginning of the school year. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year, primarily in the evening hours. Attendance is required for concerts and is included in the grading criteria.
Orchestra (Year Long)- 7th and 8th grades
Development of the fundamental instrumental techniques and musical expressions is emphasized and practiced. Students are required to provide their own instrument and method book. (Some larger instruments are available through Liberty for a yearly fee.) Orchestra instrumentation includes violin, viola, cello, and bass. Information for rental/purchase of instruments will be given to students at an Instrumental Music night at the beginning of the school year. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year, primarily in the evening hours. Attendance is required for concerts and is included in the grading criteria.
A.V.I.D. (Advancement via Individual Determination)(Year Long)- 7th and 8th grade
AVID is more than just a class; it is a community of learners that extends beyond the walls of the classroom to support students as they work towards achieving their goals and dreams. AVID is for students with a desire and determination to challenge themselves to reach their full potential. It teaches students the necessary strategies to be successful in middle school and high school, with the ultimate focus of students being ready for their future, whether that be college or career. The course helps students develop tools to engage in cooperative learning, goal setting, questioning and study skills, writing, note taking, time management, as well as character development. The course also teaches students test taking strategies, how to manage stress, and how to work towards their goals. AVID students are expected to take ownership of their learning, ask questions to deepen their understanding, and be willing to work hard.
Electives Course - Semester Courses
Art 2D (Semester Long)- 7th and 8th grades
This course is all about exploring the world of two-dimensional art through a variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, and mixed media. You’ll learn how to develop your skills while focusing on the process of creating art—experimenting, problem-solving, and refining your ideas along the way. You will be developing visual literacy through art techniques, composition, and the work of artists from different cultures and time periods, you’ll learn how to see, analyze, and create art in a meaningful way. Whether you’re sketching, layering colors, or designing a print, this class is about the journey of creating, not just the final product. You’ll have the chance to express yourself, build confidence, and explore new ways of thinking through art.
Art 3D (Semester Long) - 7th and 8th grades
This semester-long course immerses students in the world of three-dimensional art, allowing them to explore form, structure, and spatial relationships through a variety of media and techniques. With an emphasis on 3D design, students will create sculptures, reliefs, and other dimensional works while incorporating elements of 2D design to support their creative processes.
Students will study contemporary and historical artists who work in sculpture, installation, and other 3D mediums to inspire their own artistic growth and connect their work to the broader art world. The course emphasizes the artistic process, encouraging students to plan, experiment, and problem-solve as they transform their ideas into finished, concept-driven projects.
Through observation, analysis, and reflection on diverse works of art, students will strengthen their visual literacy, develop innovative approaches to art-making, and deepen their understanding of the role of 3D art in society. This class fosters creativity, adaptability, and critical thinking as students engage in hands-on exploration and refine their ability to express themselves in three dimensions.
Choir (Semester Long)- 7th and 8th grades
Students in vocal music classes will grow as singers, musicians, and good human beings. As singers, students will establish solid vocal technique, learn to sing as soloists and in harmony, and expand their vocal range, power, and accuracy. As musicians, students will gain proficiency and fluency with reading music, sing a variety of musical genres and styles, and develop a nuanced sense of intonation, rhythm, and expression. As people who are starting to grow up, students will practice self-awareness and personal responsibility, learn the value of hard work and teamwork, and foster friendships and a sense a community unlike any other. All experience levels are welcome in Choir!
Guitar (Semester Long)- 7th and 8th grades
This class is designed for the beginning guitar student. Students will learn proper technique, note reading, rhythmic skills, fingerboard geography, chords, musical style and interpretation. The end result of this class will inspire students to continue further study independently or seek private instruction. The knowledge gained in this class will set the foundation for individuals to be able to perform, read, and create music independently in the future.
Health and Wellness
Health 7 and 8 (Semester Long)- 7th and 8th grades
Students will learn to develop their physical, emotional and social health and wellness to maintain a healthy life balance. Students will practice skills that will help them learn and practice the power of making good choices including accessing valid information, advocacy, analyzing influences, decision making and self management. Class content includes Interpersonal Communication, Mental Health, Nutrition, First Aid & Safety, Substance Abuse & Prevention, Sexual Health & Relationships.
Physical Education
Physical Education 7 (Semester Long)- 7th grade
Physical Education 7 is an engaging and dynamic course designed to foster a love for physical activity while promoting overall health and wellness. This class focuses on building foundational physical skills through participation in a variety of activities, including team sports, individual fitness challenges, and cooperative games. The course aims to build confidence and promote a positive attitude toward maintaining an active lifestyle, while encouraging teamwork and sportsmanship.
Physical Education 8 (Semester Long)- 8th grade
Physical Education 8 builds on the skills and knowledge developed in previous years, emphasizing advanced techniques, strategies, and game play in a variety of sports and fitness activities. Students will refine their motor skills and improve overall physical fitness while learning about the principles of lifelong health and wellness. Teamwork and sportsmanship continue to be integral components of this class. This course challenges students to take greater ownership of their fitness goals through self-assessments, fitness goals, and leadership opportunities.
Technology and S.T.E.A.M.
STEAM Explorations- 7th grade
Students will learn and actively use the Engineering Design Process to bring their designs to life. From fabrication tools to CAD and 3D printing, students are exposed to basic software, tools, and equipment found at the foundation of any CTE STEM pathway. Students will utilize design software (OnShape), Arduinos, and Power Tools to manufacture new products. The course will end with students using all course skills to collaboratively create a final project.
STEM 8- 8th grade
Students will learn and actively use the Engineering Design Process to bring their designs to life. From fabrication tools to CAD and 3D printing, students will use the basic software, tools, and equipment found at the foundation of any CTE STEM pathway. Project topics include: Engineering, Circuitry, Business and Entrepreneurship, and Woodworking. Students will use physical and digital tools such as 3D printing, Computer-Aided Design Software, Power Tools and Arduino circuitry. This class is encouraged for students wanting to take any “Engineering & Technology” courses at Grandview.
Tech Digital and Multimedia Production- 7th grade
Multimedia production is a multi-level (beginner-advanced) project-oriented course, which allows students to communicate their unique perspectives using a variety of tools including professional grade software from the Adobe Creative Cloud Suite. This class may include elements of 3-D art production. Throughout this course, students will develop critical thinking skills.
Theater Arts
Students engage in the creation, production, and performance of drama. Basic stage directions, theater terminology and aspects of technical theater are integrated into the course. Through scene work and improvisation, students practice speaking in front of an audience, collaborating with others and creating characters.
Theater Arts 7- 7th grade
Students will deepen their understanding of theatre with units on scene devising through genres such as Soap Operas, Sitcoms, and Melodramas, as well as dive into more rigorous script work. While producing those scenes, students will learn how to identify a character’s objective, obstacle, motive, and subtext. They will also explore improvisational theater, scene analysis, and critical responses to theatrical work.
Theater Arts 8- 8th grade
Students will perform and devise longer comedy scenes and dramatic scenes within multiple genres. Students will also dive deeper into the most exercised methods of character analysis. They will also learn about the various aspects of and roles embedded within a theatrical production including Dramaturgy. Students continue practicing improvisation and tackle audition skills to prepare them for high school theatre.
Discovery- 7th grade (Semester Long)
This course is a student-driven, project-based class for students who are interested in discovering their gifts and want to be challenged. Students will learn about themselves as people, learners and global citizens as well as the importance of creative, innovative thinking and the design process. Students will create their own projects by pursuing multiple areas of interest and consider how they can help others and make an impact on the world. Students will also develop and strengthen their 21st Century Skills in:
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Communication and Collaboration
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Creativity and Innovation
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Critical Thinking and Problem Solving
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Information, Media, and Technology
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6th Grade Electives
6th Grade Elective Courses
This is an opportunity for our students to truly “explore” our program offerings, while learning where their talents and interests truly lie. Therefore, for the sixth-grade year all students choose from the following courses.
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Full Year Options
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Band 6
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Orchestra 6
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One Quarter Options:
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Art 6 2D
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Art 6 3D
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Team Sports 6
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Individual Sports
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STEM
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Theater Arts 6
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AVID 6
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Spanish Introduction 6
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Choir 6
6th Grade Electives:
Band (Year Long)
Development of the fundamental instrumental techniques and musical expressions is emphasized and practiced. Students are required to provide their own instrument and method book. Some instruments are available through Liberty for a yearly rental fee. Band instrumentation includes flute, oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion (including bells). Information for rental/purchase of instruments (from retail rental stores) will be given to students at an Instrumental Music night at the beginning of the school year. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year, primarily in the evening hours. Attendance is required for concerts and is included in the grading criteria. 6th grade Band is beginning/experienced level.
Orchestra (Year Long)
Development of the fundamental instrumental techniques and musical expressions is emphasized and practiced. Students are required to provide their own instrument and method book. Some instruments are available through Liberty for a yearly fee. Orchestra instrumentation includes violin, viola, cello, and bass. Information for rental/purchase of instruments (from retail rental stores) will be given to students at an Instrumental Music night at the beginning of the school year. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year, primarily in the evening hours. Attendance is required for concerts and is included in the grading criteria. 6th grade Orchestra is beginning/experienced level.
Art 6 2D (Quarter Long)
This course is all about exploring the world of two-dimensional art through a variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, and mixed media. You’ll learn how to develop your skills while focusing on the process of creating art—experimenting, problem-solving, and refining your ideas along the way. You will be developing visual literacy through art techniques, composition, and the work of artists from different cultures and time periods, you’ll learn how to see, analyze, and create art in a meaningful way. Whether you’re sketching, layering colors, or designing a print, this class is about the journey of creating, not just the final product. You’ll have the chance to express yourself, build confidence, and explore new ways of thinking through art.
Art 6 3D (Quarter Long)
This course focuses on developing skills and techniques in 3D art, with opportunities to incorporate 2D design as a foundation for three-dimensional creations. Students will work with a variety of media to explore form, structure, and spatial relationships while building on their prior artistic knowledge.
Through hands-on projects, students will delve into the artistic process, emphasizing planning, experimentation, and problem-solving to bring their ideas to life in three-dimensional form. They will investigate both contemporary and historical artists, with a focus on those who work in sculpture, installation, and other 3D mediums, to draw inspiration and make meaningful connections to their own work.
By observing, analyzing, and reflecting on diverse works of art, students will expand their visual literacy and develop innovative approaches to creating dynamic 3D artwork. This class encourages creativity and adaptability as students transform their concepts into finished pieces.
Physical Education 6 (Quarter Long)
Physical Education at the 6th grade middle level offers students a variety of physical activities through which they will develop positive attitudes toward group interaction, sportsmanship, effort, fair play, cooperation, initiative and an appreciation for the abilities and limitations of self and others.
PE Individual Sports 6 (Quarter Long) Individual Sports promotes a desire for physical fitness, lifetime physical activity, and healthy habits through individual activities, sports, and games. This course enhances the motor, intellectual, and social development of students through physical movement. Students will learn cooperation and sportsmanship through various activities including badminton, pickleball, hiking, basketball skills, volleyball skills, and more. We integrate fitness components and wellness concepts into all activities.
PE Team Sports 6 (Quarter Long) This course enhances the motor, intellectual, and social development of students through physical movement. Students will learn cooperation, team play, and sportsmanship through various activities including soccer, flag football, lacrosse, wiffleball, kickball, volleyball and more . We integrate fitness components and wellness concepts into the activities as well.
STEM 6 (Quarter Long)
During this quarter-long course, students will explore topics & careers in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM). Students will design, build, and test their own physical & digital creations. Project topics include: Engineering, Woodworking, and Programming (Video Game Design). Students will use physical and digital tools such as chisels and saws, 3D printing, and Computer-Aided Design Software.
Theater Arts 6 (Quarter Long)
Students will explore storytelling through theatre with units on ensemble work, staging elements, pantomime, improvisation, the fundamentals of script work, as well as original scene devising. Students will learn about how to create, maintain and truthfully communicate a character during a performance. Students will also learn how to provide and receive instructor and peer feedback in order to implement it into their work.
A.V.I.D. 6 (Quarter Long)
A.V.I.D. (Advancement via Individual Determination) AVID is more than just a class; it is a community of learners that extends beyond the walls of the classroom to support students as they work towards achieving their goals and dreams. AVID teaches students the necessary strategies to be successful in middle school and beyond. The course helps students develop tools to engage in cooperative learning, goal setting, questioning and study skills, writing, note taking, time management, as well as character development.
Spanish Introduction 6 (Quarter Long)
This is a quarter-long course designed to introduce students to the Spanish language. Students will learn basic conversational skills as well as basic reading and writing. This class is designed to introduce students to the language as well as the cultures of the people who speak Spanish around the world. Students who successfully complete this course will have the opportunity to continue learning Spanish as 7th graders in Spanish 1A. Enthusiasm and participation are a must to be successful here!
Choir 6 (Quarter Long)
Students in vocal music classes will grow as singers, musicians, and good human beings. As singers, students will establish solid vocal technique, learn to sing as soloists and in harmony, and expand their vocal range, power, and accuracy. As musicians, students will gain proficiency and fluency with reading music, sing a variety of musical genres and styles, and develop a nuanced sense of intonation, rhythm, and expression. As people who are starting to grow up, students will practice self-awareness and personal responsibility, learn the value of hard work and teamwork, and foster friendships and a sense a community unlike any other. All experience levels are welcome in Choir!
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Student Achievement Services
Student Achievement Services (S.A.S.) provides special education services to students who qualify under the Colorado Department of Education guidelines. S.A.S. staff include a department coordinator, learning specialists, a speech/language therapist, mental health support, nursing, and district support in the areas of hearing, vision, and fine and gross motor skills. This team assesses students who are referred and develops an Individual Education Plan (I.E.P.) for students who qualify.
At Liberty Middle School, a continuum of academic support services is provided to accommodate each student’s specific needs. This support may be in the form of co-taught language arts classes, math classes, or affective support classes. Each student’s progress is monitored closely, and S.A.S. staff collaborates with other teachers and families to ensure each student is as successful in the learning environment as they can be.
The S.A.S. team also consults with other school staff and families regarding those students who do not qualify under the state guidelines.
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Advanced/Accelerated Programming
Advanced/Accelerated classes are offered in language arts, math, science, and social studies. These classes utilize text and/or content that is one to two years ahead of grade level. The pace of the course is accelerated and the methods used are designed to prepare students with the skills necessary to be successful in Honors and Advanced Placement classes in high school. Students are screened for advanced classes using a body of evidence that may include standardized test scores, grades, placement tests, and teacher recommendations.
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Social Studies
Social Studies is guided by the state standards in history, geography, civics, economics, and personal financial literacy. The content focus is the Western Hemisphere in 6th grade, the Eastern Hemisphere in 7th grade, and United States history in 8th grade. Students are engaged in technology, hands-on activities, and authentic assessments. These help history come alive and ensure all students effectively acquire information and skills, including analysis of primary and secondary sources, learning about history from multiple perspectives, and the impact of history on the modern world.
6th Grade
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Human and Physical Geography
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Origins of Civilization
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Latin and South American Civilizations
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Conquest of the Americas
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Modern Americas
7th Grade
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Ancient Civilization
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World Belief Systems
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Colonization
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Modern World
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Economics
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Human Rights
8th Grade:
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Revolution
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Constitution
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Westward Expansion
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Civil War and Reconstruction
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Science
At the middle school level, the principle goals in each science classroom are to cultivate scientific habits of mind, develop students’ capability for scientific inquiry, and to teach each student how to reason in a scientific context. As students progress from 6th through 8th grade, every science teacher plans rigorous lessons and labs to ensure that students become proficient in the following fundamental scientific practices by the time they reach high school:
• Asking questions and defining problems
• Developing and using models
• Planning and carrying out investigations
• Analyzing and interpreting data
• Using mathematics and computational thinking
• Constructing explanations and designing solutions
• Engaging in argument from evidence
• Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information
Our general curriculum follows the CCSD middle school curriculum, which is aligned with the Colorado State Content Standards.
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Math
The mathematics program at Liberty Middle School focuses on preparing students to be able to do the following:
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learn to enjoy and value mathematics
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become confident in their abilities to learn mathematics
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become mathematical problem-solvers
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learn to reason and communicate mathematically
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make connections between mathematics and life
Math 6
As students transition to middle school mathematics, they will build on their understanding of numbers from elementary school and begin to learn the abstract components of mathematics. In sixth grade, math content will focus on four critical areas, including (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) finishing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of numbers 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. This work will lay the foundation for the focus on proportional relationships in seventh grade.
Accelerated Math 6
Accelerated Math 6 is part of a two-year compacted course sequence that provides three years of mathematics content in two years, preparing students for Algebra 1 in eighth grade. Students study all topics from Math 6 (see Math 6 course description), extending understanding of operations with rational numbers, working with expressions and linear equations and extending the concepts of ratio and rate from Math 6 to include proportional relationships from Math 7. The compacted nature of the course will require students to be comfortable and proficient learning math at an accelerated pace. Placement in this class will be determined using a body of evidence to support students’ readiness for success in this course.
Math 7
Seventh grade students will build on their work with rational numbers and algebraic thinking from sixth grade as they move into deeper and more complex math concepts. Math content will focus on four critical areas, including (1) developing understanding of and application of proportional relationships; (2) developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations; (3) solving problems involving geometric ideas of scale, area, surface area and volume with two- and three-dimensional shapes; and (4) drawing inferences about populations based on samples. This work will lay the foundation for the algebraic work with linear functions studied in eighth grade.
Accelerated Math 7
Accelerated Math 7 is the second half of a two-year compacted course sequence that provides three years of mathematics content in two years. Students who have successfully completed Accelerated Math 6 will complete Accelerated Math 7 in order to be prepared for Algebra 1 in eighth grade. Students will complete their study of Math 7 topics (see Math 7 course description) not covered in Accelerated Math 6, including working with expressions and linear equations and the geometric study of two-and three-dimensional shapes. These concepts will be extended to the Math 8 topics of linear equations and the Pythagorean Theorem, respectively. The full content of Math 8 (see Math 8 course descriptions) will be studied in this course. The compacted nature of the course will require students to be comfortable and proficient learning math at an accelerated pace.
Math 8
In 8th grade, students begin a serious study of algebra with the learning of linear functions. With their study of number relatively complete, the focus shifts to the abstract application of their understanding of arithmetic. This content will focus on three critical areas, including (1) formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling bivariate data with a linear equation, solving linear equations, and working with systems of linear equations; (2) developing and understanding the concept of a function, and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; and (3) analyzing two-and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. This work will lay the foundation for success in a high school Algebra I course.
Algebra I
Algebra I provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students to succeed in advanced courses. In particular, the instructional program in this course provides for the use of algebraic skills in a wide range of problem-solving situations. Topics include: operations with real numbers, systems of linear equations and inequalities, relations and functions, polynomials, algebraic fractions, nonlinear equations, and statistics and probability. The course guides students in the development of critical thinking skills and algebraic problem-solving skills which provide the foundation for real world problem solving. This is a fast pace rigorous course. The compacted nature of the course will require students to be comfortable and proficient learning math at an accelerated pace.
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Language Arts
This course emphasizes the fundamental language skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, thinking, viewing and presenting. Our balanced literacy approach to teaching reading and writing allows students multiple opportunities to practice their language skills with a variety of texts and genres. Through the Reading Workshop Model, students will learn and practice comprehension and analysis of both fiction and non-fiction texts and engage in active questioning and discussion. Through the Writing Workshop Model, students will participate in the writing process in order to learn and practice critical writing skills including embedded grammar and vocabulary instruction. In Language Arts, students will read and write in a variety of styles, to a variety of audiences, and for a variety of purposes.