Whitefish Bay Middle School Course Description Guide

1

2017-18

1144 E. Henry Clay Street

Whitefish Bay, WI 53211

(414) 963-6800

Whitefish Bay Middle School Course Description Guide

2

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Grade 6 Course Selection Form ..................................................................................................................... 6

Core Academic Course Descriptions ........................................................................................................... 7

English Language Arts 6 ........................................................................................................................... 7

Math 6 ...................................................................................................................................................... 7

Science 6 .................................................................................................................................................. 7

Social Studies 6 ......................................................................................................................................... 7

Physical Education.................................................................................................................................... 8

Choosing a World Language ....................................................................................................................... 9

World Language 6 .................................................................................................................................... 9

French (1a) ............................................................................................................................................... 9

German (1a) ............................................................................................................................................. 9

Spanish (1a) .............................................................................................................................................. 9

Required Exploratory Wheel..................................................................................................................... 10

Art 6 ........................................................................................................................................................ 10

Design and Modeling ............................................................................................................................. 10

General Music 6 ..................................................................................................................................... 10

Health 6 .................................................................................................................................................. 10

Elective Courses ........................................................................................................................................ 10

Band ...................................................................................................................................................... 10

Choir ....................................................................................................................................................... 10

Orchestra ................................................................................................................................................ 10

Study Hall ............................................................................................................................................... 10

6th Grade Support Services ....................................................................................................................... 11

Math Intervention .................................................................................................................................. 11

Reading Intervention ............................................................................................................................. 11

Academic Support Study Hall ................................................................................................................. 11

3

Grade 7 Course Selection Form ................................................................................................................... 12

Core Academic Course Descriptions ......................................................................................................... 13

English Language Arts 7 ......................................................................................................................... 13

Math 7 .................................................................................................................................................... 13

Or Math 7C ............................................................................................................................................. 13

Science 7 ................................................................................................................................................ 14

World History 7 ...................................................................................................................................... 14

Physical Education.................................................................................................................................. 14

Required Exploratory Wheel..................................................................................................................... 14

Art 7 ........................................................................................................................................................ 14

Green Architecture ................................................................................................................................ 14

Leadership 7 ........................................................................................................................................... 14

Life Skills 7 .............................................................................................................................................. 14


Band ....................................................................................................................................................... 15

Choir ....................................................................................................................................................... 15

Hands-On Guitar .................................................................................................................................... 15

Hands-On Drumming ............................................................................................................................. 15

Hands-On Ukulele .................................................................................................................................. 15

Orchestra ................................................................................................................................................ 15

Study Hall ............................................................................................................................................... 15

World Language: French, German or Spanish (Level 1b) ...................................................................... 15





4

Grade 8 Course Selection Form ................................................................................................................... 17

Core Academic Course Descriptions ......................................................................................................... 18

English Language Arts 8 ......................................................................................................................... 18

Math 8 .................................................................................................................................................... 18

Or Algebra .............................................................................................................................................. 18

Science 8 ................................................................................................................................................ 19

U.S. History 8 .......................................................................................................................................... 19

Health & Physical Education ..................................................................................................................... 19

Health 8 .................................................................................................................................................. 19

Physical Education.................................................................................................................................. 20


Band ....................................................................................................................................................... 21

Choir ....................................................................................................................................................... 21

Orchestra ................................................................................................................................................ 21

World Languages: French, German or Spanish (Level 1c) ...................................................................... 21

Design Challenge .................................................................................................................................... 21

Medical Detectives ................................................................................................................................. 21

Fitness & Conditioning ........................................................................................................................... 21

Hands-on Guitar ..................................................................................................................................... 21

Hands-on Drumming .............................................................................................................................. 22

Leadership Skills ..................................................................................................................................... 22

Creative Publications: Writing and Art ................................................................................................. 22

Pop Art ................................................................................................................................................... 22

2D Art: Painting, Print Making and Computer Imaging ........................................................................ 22

3D Techniques: Ceramics and Sculpture ............................................................................................... 22

Study Hall ............................................................................................................................................... 22

5





Middle School Math Progression Flowchart ............................................................................................. 24

6

2017-2018| GRADE 6

COURSE SELECTION FORM

Course descriptions can be found on our website: www.wfbschools.com.

Go to the Middle School home page, select Academic Programming >

Course Description Guide.

All 6th grade students have three periods per day for elective classes. All students take the Exploratory Wheel (Art, Health, General Music, and Design & Modeling) during one of these periods. Another period is for every other day Physical Education, opposite of a World Language (German, Spanish, or French). The final period is reserved for music (Band, Choir, or Orchestra, or a combination of two of these ensembles). There is an option for a Daily Study Hall instead of music, but this is not recommended for most students. * Please make your selections below:

Choose one course from Section I AND one course from Section II.

SECTION I: WORLD LANGUAGE OPTIONS – CHOOSE 1

☐ Spanish (651) ☐ French (650)

☐ German (652)

SECTION II: ELECTIVE OPTIONS – CHOOSE 1

☐ Band (653) ☐ Band and Orchestra (654 and 658)

☐ Choir (655) ☐ Choir and Orchestra (656 and 658)

☐ Orchestra (657) ☐ Daily Study Hall (649)

☐ Band and Choir (654 and 656)

Parent/Guardian Signature Date

*Please know that if your student receives intervention or Special Education services they may not be

able to have all choices available.

http://www.wfbschools.com/

7

6th Grade Course Descriptions

Educational program planning is a joint task shared by students, parents, and school personnel. It is imperative that

the course selection process by taken seriously as student choice determines section numbers and corresponding

class sizes. Once established, students' course selections/schedules may be changed with staff approval only.

Student, parent, counselor, teacher and administrator input may be taken into consideration in responding to schedule

change requests. Students will be permitted to add/drop classes until the first of October pending class size. Students

may again add/drop classes during the first two weeks of second semester, again pending staff approval and class

size review.

If you have any questions regarding your child’s educational program, please feel free to contact your child’s

SCHOOL counselor.

Core Academic Course Descriptions:

English Language

Arts (ELA) 6

This ELA curriculum is designed around a workshop model to develop proficient and confident readers,

writers, speakers and listeners. Based upon the Common Core State Standards and the Partnership in

Comprehensive Literacy framework, the curriculum is a rigorous application of knowledge through

higher order skills. Organized by thematic units in the categories of community and relationships,

folklore and literary tradition, living things, sense of self, inspired by true stories, and genre studies.

Each unit: 1) develops students analysis of literary concepts while applying reading strategies; 2) uses

exemplar texts to model writing skills as students write over extended time frames or shorter time

frames for a range of discipline specific purposes (to inform, to persuade, to express emotion or to

entertain); 3) enables speaking and listening skills to be practiced and honed; 4) provides a rich context

to develop students’ vocabulary and grammar skills as proven practices suggest. In each unit there

are challenging whole class texts, group texts and individual texts. Students are supported as they

grow as readers and writers as the course progresses.

Math 6

The purpose of mathematics education is to build the high levels of mathematical skills, processes,

thinking, and problem solving necessary to meet the challenge of a changing society. This course is

designed as a transition from elementary mathematics to secondary mathematics. In Grade 6,

instructional time will focus on four critical areas: connecting ratio and rate to whole number

multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; completing

understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of number to the system of rational

numbers, which includes negative numbers; writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations;

and developing understanding of statistical thinking.

Science 6 Through an inquiry-based curriculum, students will develop scientific knowledge and higher-level

thinking skills that enable them to make informed use of science in their lives. Grade six science is an

integrated program consisting of earth science, life science, and an introduction to chemistry. Through

this curriculum, students experience connections among and between the different branches of science

and the application of science in their daily lives.

Social Studies 6

Sixth grade social studies is a course split into two alternating quarters that centers on ancient world history.

The class begins with the history of early man (the Stone Age) and moves through time, concluding with the

studies of Daily Life in Ancient Rome. With the aforementioned timeframe as a backdrop, students learn how

archeologists, historians and geographers use evidence left by ancient groups, along with educated guesses,

to piece together history. In the process, students learn to think like a social scientist as they examine a

variety of primary sources, apply their learned knowledge to create historical hypotheses and defend their

positions while bringing history “alive” in an exciting and unique way.

8

Physical

Education

The 6th grade physical education program takes the basic movements, skills and concepts that have

been introduced at the elementary school level and progresses toward more complex movements

through repetition and sequencing of drills and game play. Sportsmanship, cooperation, and teamwork

are stressed at all grades. Basic knowledge of rules and strategies of team and individual sports are

taught. Lifetime fitness skills and physical activities are introduced in sixth grade. The curriculum

supports improving personal fitness of each student, including health-related physical fitness (aerobic

fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition), as well as sport-

related physical fitness (agility, balance, speed, power, and coordination). The FitnessGram fitness

assessment is used throughout the year to assess, report, and educate students on their levels of

health-related physical fitness.

9

Choosing a World Language Students may wish to discuss these questions with their parents:

Personal interest: Am I especially attracted to one of the languages or to the cultures of the people who use it?

Travel interests: Do I have a special interest in traveling where one of these languages is spoken?

Vocational interests: Is knowledge of one of these languages helpful in the career(s) I am considering?

Opportunities for practice: Is there someone with whom I could practice one of these languages?

(not necessary)

Family heritage: Am I interested in speaking the language of my relatives or ancestors?

Studying any world language broadens one’s view of the world and makes other languages easier to learn. There is also a strong

correlation between foreign language study and better performance in other subject areas and on college entrance exams.

Language

Where Spoken

Vocational Use

Other Considerations

French France, Canada, Belgium,

Switzerland, Luxembourg, Monaco,

Much Of Africa, French Guyana,

Parts of SE Asia, Islands In The

Caribbean Sea And Pacific, Atlantic,

and Indian Oceans

International Business / Relations,

Travel, Technology, Literature, Visual

Arts, Film, Music, Dance, Fashion,

Teaching, History, Pharmaceuticals,

Medicine, Peace Corps, etc.

Spoken In Nearby Quebec,

Canada And In Areas of New

England and Louisiana

Use of French Expressions In

English Literature and

Conversation

German Federal Republic Of Germany,

Austria, Switzerland, Liechtenstein,

Luxembourg and In Communities

In South America, The US, etc.

Science And Technology, Medicine,

Literature, International Business,

Teaching, Travel, Military, Visual

Arts, Publishing, History, Music,

Engineering, Pharmaceuticals, Etc.

Local German Heritage And

Culture (Family, Restaurants,

etc.)

German-Speaking

Communities In US (Wisconsin,

Pennsylvania, Iowa, etc.)

Spanish

Spain, Mexico, Most Countries In

South And Central America, Cuba,

Puerto Rico, and Other Caribbean

Islands, and In Communities In The

US

Health Care, Peace Corps,

Government Agencies, Teaching,

Law Enforcement, Agriculture,

Travel, International Business,

Archeology, Visual Arts, Modern

Literature, etc.

Spoken By Many People In The

US In The Southwest, In Large

Cities Like Milwaukee, and In

Farming Areas.

Opportunities To Hear Spanish

On Radio And TV, And In

Mexican Restaurants

World

Language 6

French (1a)

German (1a)

Spanish (1a)

This is the first part of the three levels, which begins in sixth grade and continues through eighth grade.

Together, the three levels are comparable to the high school level I courses and are usually recognized by

colleges and universities. Any student who plans on taking a world language in the middle school must

begin in 6th grade. All five components of language study are included: listening, speaking, reading, writing

and culture.

10

Required Exploratory Wheel:

All sixth graders will rotate through the following 4 one-quarter exploratory courses, running nine weeks in

duration.

Art 6 Design and Modeling General Music Health

Art 6 In art class, students explore a variety of media and techniques including drawing, painting,

graphics, and sculpture. Emphasis is on the development of self-expression, self-esteem,

perceptual awareness, creative potential, and aesthetic appreciation. Students will explore a

right-hemispheric approach to art, learning how to enhance and trust their visual perception and

translate that into visual representation. Units may include contour drawing with pencil and pen,

painting in acrylics, relief printmaking and plaster or paper mache sculpture.

Design and Modeling Students learn thumbnail, orthographic, isometric, and perspective sketching as methods for communicating design ideas. Afterwards they conduct a mechanical dissection to better understand how objects and parts interact. Students create a solid model using a computer-aided design (CAD) application and fabricate their design solution for testing. Their final lesson is to use what they’ve learned to design a prototype of a therapeutic toy.

General Music 6 In general music, students gain skills necessary to understand, appreciate and create music. Units of study include style, rhythm, music history and composition. Each unit includes multiple concepts focusing on the six student music standards singing/performing on instruments; improvising melodies, variations and accompaniments; reading and notating music; evaluating music and music performances; and understanding music in relation to history and culture. Midi computer stations, keyboards, and a variety of rhythm instruments are used as tools to help students understand the concepts of how music is constructed.

Health 6 The sixth grade health program is designed to empower today's adolescents with necessary information needed to make informed, healthy decisions and choices that will enable them to confidently navigate the ever changing and complex health issues we face today. Health class will focus on four components; mental, emotional, social and physical health. Core concepts include: self-image and self-esteem, emotions and behaviors, effective communication, decision making and problem solving, alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, stress management, nutrition, and Human Growth & Development.

Elective Courses:

Band This year long class provides the opportunity for students to study instrumental music with public performances as an end result. The literature used exposes the students to a variety of forms and styles, as well as instruction in musical elements. Concert etiquette is also stressed.

Choir This year long class provides the opportunity for students to study vocal music, with public performance as an end result. The literature used exposes the students to a variety of song forms and musical styles in two parts, as well as instruction in musical elements. Concert etiquette is stressed.

Orchestra This year long class provides the opportunity for the continuation of stringed instrument instruction focusing on the developing young musician. The literature used will expose students to varied forms and styles, techniques and musical elements. Concerts will be performed throughout the year with an emphasis on the performer and audience concert etiquette.

Study Hall Students who do not select a music course will have a daily study hall.

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6TH GRADE SUPPORT SERVICES: Believing that all students can learn, Whitefish Bay Middle School provides a variety of support systems for students’ academic success. These programs are designed to assist students in developing basic skills and productive work habits to better meet the expectations of our academic curriculum.

Math Intervention

Math Intervention is a supplementary class for students in need of basic factual and functional math skills. Students receive specific interventions targeting discrete skills and strengthening foundational operations. Students are placed in the course following a team review of standardized achievement test scores, math diagnostic scores, and grade level academic progress.

Reading Intervention

Reading intervention is a supplementary class for students needing specialized help with reading skills. Students receive small group reading comprehension instruction in content area material as well as literature. Also included are vocabulary development, fluency practice, word attack skills instruction and practice, and test taking strategies and preparation work. Students are placed in the course following a review of reading specialist administered test scores and grade level academic progress.

Academic Support Study

Hall

Academic Support Study Hall is designed to help students develop independent study and organizational skills. Students are expected to record assignments and complete them on time. In addition, students will be closely monitored and assisted while getting started on the following day's assignments. Students may also use the period to clean and organize materials in their binders and lockers, meet with content area teachers, and study for upcoming quizzes or tests. Placement in Academic Support is through referral by a Problem Solving Team comprised of teachers, guidance counselor, and other specialists as needed, and parents.

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2017-18 |GRADE 7


Course descriptions can be found on our website: www.wfbschools.com. Go to the Middle School home page, select Academic Programming > Course Description Guide.

SECTION I: ELECTIVE OPTIONS*

Choose one of the following four options and your courses within that option. The Exploratory Wheel includes Green Architecture, Art, Leadership, and Life Skills.

☐ OPTION 1: (1) WORLD LANGUAGE, (1) MUSIC and EXPLORATORY WHEEL

World Language (Choose 1) Music (Choose 1)

☐ Spanish (751) ☐ Band (753)

☐ German (752) ☐ Choir (755)

☐ French (750) ☐ Orchestra (757)

☐ Hands-on-Guitar (777) and Hands-on-Drumming (768)

☐ OPTION 2: (1) WORLD LANGUAGE, (2) MUSICS, (1) ELECTIVE and LIFE SKILLS

World Language (Choose 1) Music (Choose 2) Electives (Choose 1) ☐ Spanish (751) ☐ Band (753) ☐ Hands on Guitar (777)

☐ German (752) ☐ Choir (755) ☐ Hands-on-Drumming (768)

☐ French (750) ☐ Orchestra (757) ☐ Art (772)

☐ OPTION 3: EXPLORATORY WHEEL, (2) MUSICS and (2) ELECTIVES

Music (Choose 2) Electives (Choose 2) ☐ Band (753) ☐ Hands-on Guitar (777)

☐ Choir (755) ☐ Hands-on Drumming (768)

☐ Orchestra (757) ☐ Art (772)

☐ OPTION 4: EXPLORATORY WHEEL, (2) ELECTIVES and STUDY HALL

Electives (Choose 2) ☐ Hands-on Guitar (777)

☐ Hands-on Drumming (768)

☐ Art (772)

*Elective courses are offered based on student request. If the elective course that you have selected does not have the minimum number of students required to continue the course, you will be notified to select another course.


*Please know that if your student receives intervention or Special Education services they may not be

able to have all choices available.

http://www.wfbschools.com/

13


Educational program planning is a joint task shared by students, parents, and school personnel. It is imperative that

the course selection process by taken seriously as student choice determines section numbers and corresponding

class sizes. Once established, students' course selections/schedules may be changed with staff approval only.

Student, parent, counselor, teacher and administrator input may be taken into consideration in responding to schedule

change requests. Students will be permitted to add/drop classes until the first of October pending class size. Students

may again add/drop classes during the first two weeks of second semester, again pending staff approval and class

size review.

If You Have Any Questions Regarding Your Child’s Educational Program, Please Feel Free to Contact Your

Child’s School Counselor.


English Language Arts

(ELA) 7

This ELA curriculum is designed around a workshop model to develop proficient and confident

readers, writers, speakers and listeners. Based upon the Common Core State Standards and the

Partnership in Comprehensive Literacy framework, the curriculum is a rigorous application of

knowledge through higher order skills. Organized by thematic units in the categories of community

and relationships, folklore and literary tradition, living things, sense of self, inspired by true stories,

and genre studies. Each unit: 1) develops students analysis of literary concepts while applying

reading strategies; 2) uses exemplar texts to model writing skills as students write over extended

time frames or shorter time frames for a range of discipline specific purposes (to inform, to persuade,

to express emotion or to entertain); 3) enables speaking and listening skills to be practiced and

honed; 4) provides a rich context to develop students’ vocabulary and grammar skills as proven

practices suggest. In each unit there are challenging whole class texts, group texts and individual

texts. Students are supported as they grow as readers and writers as the course progresses.

Math 7

-or-

Math 7C

The purpose of mathematics education is to build the high levels of mathematical skills, processes,

thinking, and problem solving necessary to meet the challenge of a changing technological society.

In Grade 7, instructional time will focus on four critical areas: developing understanding of and

applying proportional relationships; developing understanding of operations with rational numbers

and working with expressions and linear equations; 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 drawing inferences about populations based

on samples.

The Math 7C course is a compacted curriculum that prepares students to take Algebra in 8th grade.

The term “compacted” means to compress content, which requires a faster pace to complete, as

opposed to skipping content. As such, grades 7, 8, and 9 are compacted into grades 7 and 8 (a 3:2

compaction). In Math 7C, instructional time will focus on the following critical areas: developing

understanding of and applying proportional relationships; developing understanding of operations

with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations; exponent rules, 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; analyzing

two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and

understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem; scientific notation; transformations; and

drawing inferences about populations based on samples.

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Science 7 In seventh grade science, students observe the world that surrounds them and explain the

observations in the context of science. The hands-on lab experiments and group work will have

students use discovery and experiential learning, to investigate topics in all areas of the curriculum.

The students utilize 21st century skills by creating a service learning project which utilizes research,

communication, collaboration, and presentation skills and relates to the core curriculum. The core

curricular topics covered are Earth History (erosion, weathering, time, fossils, rock types, and the

Grand Canyon), Electrical Energy and Circuit Design & Introductory Magnetism, and Human Body

(digestion, circulatory & respiratory system, and skeletal & muscular systems)

World History 7 In the 7th Grade History Alive: The Medieval World and Beyond, students will develop a clear understanding of world history from the Medieval period to early modern civilizations. Emphasis is on gaining knowledge and understanding of the major civilizations of the world while developing the analytical skills needed to interpret historical events and documents of the different countries of the world. Students will examine critical issues, pivotal events, and the important people in each unit. They will also learn to give detailed evidence to support their ideas in written form. The curriculum is enriched through literature and technology, and includes lessons which draw upon multiple intelligences and interactive learning strategies.

Physical Education The 7th grade physical education program takes movements and skills from 6th grade and progresses towards more complex movements through repetition and sequencing of drills, and an increased amount of game play. Sportsmanship, cooperation, and teamwork are stressed at all grades. Greater knowledge of game play strategy in team and individual sports is taught. Lifetime fitness skills and physical activities are introduced or refined. The curriculum supports improving personal fitness of each student, including health-related physical fitness (aerobic fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition), as well as sport-related physical fitness (agility, balance, speed, power, and coordination). The FitnessGram fitness assessment is used throughout the year to assess, report, and educate students on their levels of health-related physical fitness.

Required Exploratory Wheel:

All seventh graders will rotate through 4 one-quarter exploratory courses. This is called the Required

Exploratory Wheel and consists of classes entitled:

Art 7 Green Architecture Leadership 7 Life Skills 7

Art 7 Students continue the development of creative and critical thinking skills learned in sixth grade with

the same emphasis on self-expression, self-esteem, perceptual awareness, creative potential, and

aesthetic appreciation. Students are encouraged to discover their own personal style with more

intensity of project length. Using right-brain techniques learned in sixth grade, students build upon all

their drawing and painting skills and techniques. The elements of art and principles of design are

reinforced and exposure to art history is included. The use of a personal sketchbook encourages

drawing practice and promotes imaginative expression.

Green Architecture Architecture is the art and science of designing buildings. Students will learn about planning residential spaces, the different systems in a home, how to read the symbols found in architectural plans, and how to choose materials to remain within a given budget. Students will build a wall for a wood framed shed and test insulation materials. They will use the Autodesk® Revit® software, used to develop high-quality architectural designs, to design a home using shipping containers.

Leadership 7 The 7th grade Leadership Development course includes lessons in introductions, team work, attributes of a leader, goal setting, communication and kindness. These themes will be explored through activities such as speeches, projects, examining film and other media, journal writing and/or partner and group work.

Life Skills 7 This class emphasizes decision-making skills necessary to resist peer and media pressure to use drugs, tobacco and alcohol. It also provides students with the skills needed to deal with the challenges of life as a teenager.

Included in the seven-week segment of the Life Skills program will be a separate unit of Human Growth and Development education.

15

ELECTIVE COURSES:

Band Band provides the opportunity for students to study instrumental music, with public performance as an end result. The literature used exposes the students to a variety of musical elements. Concert etiquette is also stressed. This is a full year course.

Choir Choir provides the opportunity for students to study vocal music with public performance as an end result. The literature used exposes the student to a variety of song forms and musical styles in three parts, as well as instruction in musical elements. Concert etiquette is stressed. This is a full year course.

Hands-On Guitar This class provides instruction on guitar. Flat-picking and finger-picking styles will be

explored. Ensemble playing and lifetime musical skills will be emphasized. If a guitar is needed, a rental fee will be assessed.

Hands-On Drumming This class provides instruction on drumming. Students will experience a variety of

percussion instruments through hands on experience. Study of world drum instruments as well as the creative use of everyday items, such as garbage cans, chairs, and music stands will be used to create unique sounds and rhythms. The introduction to reading rhythm notation will be part of the class. Ensemble playing and individual study will allow for student creative expression.

Hands-On Ukulele This class provides beginning instruction on the Ukulele. Skills will include: Identifying parts

of the Ukulele, String Names, Tuning, Chord Positions, Rhythm Strum patterns, playing songs and ensemble work. Students will write and record an original song at the end of the course. Ukuleles are provided.

Orchestra Orchestra provides the opportunity for students to study orchestral music and further develop performance skills. Emphasis is on advanced precision and musicianship. Solo and small ensemble participation is encouraged. Concerts of varied musical forms and styles are presented to the public. Based on teacher availability, small group lessons are occasionally provided. This is a full year course.

Study Hall Students who do not select three elective courses will have a daily study hall. Those students who need extra support with academic classes are encouraged to select a study hall.

World Language:

French, German or

Spanish (Level 1b)

This is the second part of the three levels which begins in sixth grade and continues through eighth grade. Together, the 6th through 8th grade courses are comparable to the high school Level I courses and are usually recognized as such by colleges and universities. Any student who plans to take a world language in the middle school must begin in 6th grade unless they pass a proficiency test. All five components of language study are

included: listening, speaking, reading, writing and culture.

16

7th Grade Support Services:

Believing that all students can learn, Whitefish Bay Middle School provides a variety of support systems for students’ academic success. These programs are designed to assist students in developing basic skills and productive work habits to better meet the expectations of our academic curriculum.

Math Intervention


Reading Intervention Reading intervention is a supplementary class for students needing specialized help with reading skills. Students receive small group reading comprehension instruction in content area material as well as literature. Also included are vocabulary development, fluency practice, word attack skills instruction and practice, and test taking strategies and preparation work. Students are placed in the course following a review of reading specialist administered test scores and grade level academic progress.

Academic Support Study

Hall


17

2017-2018 | GRADE 8


Course descriptions can be found on our website: www.wfbschools.com. Go to the Middle School home page, select Academic Programming > Course Description Guide.

All 8th grade students have three periods of elective courses. One period is reserved for every other day Physical Education, opposite of Health. The other two periods are open for student choice; because our electives run quarterly, students have 8 total quarters to fill. Please choose the options below to total 8 quarters. Also, please list alternate choices below, as scheduling conflicts may occur. *

SECTION I: ELECTIVE OPTIONS – TOTAL # OF QUARTERS MUST EQUAL 8

Electives at 4 Quarters Each Electives at 3 Quarters Each Electives at 1 Quarter Each ☐ French (850) Band (853) – 3 quarters ☐ Pop Art (874)

☐ Spanish (851) Choir (854) – 3 quarters ☐ 2D Art Techniques (875)

☐ German (852) Orchestra (855) – 3 quarters ☐ 3D Art Techniques (876)

☐ Band (853) ☐ Ceramics (880)

☐ Choir (854) ☐ Creative Publications - Writing (835)

☐ Orchestra (855) ☐ Creative Publications – Art (836)

☐ Band & Choir (856 and 857) ☐ Medical Detectives (872)

☐ Band & Orchestra (856 and 858) ☐ Design Challenge (873)

☐ Choir & Orchestra (857 and 858) ☐ Leadership Skills (879)

☐ Band, Choir & Orchestra (856, 857, 858) ☐ Fitness & Conditioning (878)

☐ Hands-on Guitar (877)

☐ Hands-on Drumming (868)

☐ Study Hall (861)

☐ Study Hall: 2 quarters (861)

Number of quarters in Section I: = 8 quarters

SECTION II: ALTERNATIVE OPTIONS

Please select FOUR additional 1-quarter courses from the Elective Options in Section I as alternates.

1. Course Name: Course Number:





*Please know that if your student receives intervention or Special Education services they may not be able

to have all choices available.

18


Educational program planning is a joint task shared by students, parents, and school personnel. It is

imperative that the course selection process by taken seriously as student choice determines section

numbers and corresponding class sizes. Once established, students' course selections/schedules may

be changed with staff approval only. Student, parent, counselor, teacher and administrator input may be

taken into consideration in responding to schedule change requests. Students will be permitted to

add/drop classes until the first of October pending class size. Students may again add/drop classes

during the first two weeks of second semester, again pending staff approval and class size review.

If You Have Any Questions Regarding Your Child’s Educational Program, Please Feel Free to

Contact Your Child’s School Counselor.


English Language Arts

(ELA) 8

This ELA curriculum is designed around a workshop model to develop proficient and confident readers, writers, speakers and listeners. Based upon the Common Core State Standards and the Partnership in Comprehensive Literacy framework, the curriculum is a rigorous application of knowledge through higher order skills. Organized by thematic units in the categories of community and relationships, folklore and literary tradition, living things, sense of self, inspired by true stories, and genre studies. Each unit: 1) develops students analysis of literary concepts while applying reading strategies; 2) uses exemplar texts to model writing skills as students write over extended time frames or shorter time frames for a range of discipline specific purposes (to inform, to persuade, to express emotion or to entertain); 3) enables speaking and listening skills to be practiced and honed; 4) provides a rich context to develop students’ vocabulary and grammar skills as proven practices suggest. In each unit there are challenging whole class texts, group texts and individual texts. Students are supported as they grow as readers and writers as the course progresses.

Math 8

-or-

Algebra

Math 8 uses the Big Ideas textbook series. The curriculum uses a combination of

traditional instruction paired with small group investigations. This approach opens doors to

abstract thought, reasoning, and inquiry as students persevere to answer the Essential

Questions that introduce each lesson. Students will be exposed throughout the series to

the depth and rigor students need to prepare for career-readiness and college level

courses by preparing them to be better overall problem solvers. This course is specifically

designed as a preparation for high school algebra/geometry. Students will use order of

operations and simplifying within many of our units. Algebra concepts include: solving

multi-step equations, graphing and writing linear equations, relations and functions,

exponents, and systems of linear equations. Geometry concepts include using area and

volume formulas, congruent and similar figures, transformations in the coordinate plane,

triangles, the Pythagorean Theorem, and special angle pairs. Students will also study

scientific notation and data analysis. Math 8 students are expected to demonstrate

proficiency in each skill that is taught. The student must have a scientific calculator. A

graphing calculator is optional.

The middle school Algebra course parallels the Algebra I course at the high school.

Students who successfully complete this course receive a statement on their high school

transcript stating such completion, but do not receive high school credit. Students who

successfully master concepts covered in this course will be placed in Advanced Geometry

the following year. Algebra 1 is the first course in abstract mathematics and the initial step

in the regular sequence of high school mathematics. It provides the student with

fundamental tools to explore mathematical concepts, search for patterns, and solve

problems. Topics include the study of linear, exponential, quadratic and rational

functions. Students will be encouraged to comprehend algebraic concepts, to make

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Algebra (cont’d)

conjectures while persevering through challenging problems, and to develop a conceptual

understanding of mathematics. Major concepts are balanced with procedural skill

knowledge (simplifying expressions, solving equations and inequalities, translating

mathematical sentences,

graphing, and solving systems of equations) A graphing calculator is required for this

course, which allows students to more thoroughly investigate the mathematics being

learned. Preferred model:

TI-84+.

Science 8

The eighth grade science course consists of three major units. Organisms: From Macro to

Micro provides an overview of biology, and explores the themes of reproduction, natural

and artificial selection, and relationships between organisms. The second unit, Energy,

Machines and Motion, investigates the transfer of energy, simple machines, and Newton’s

Laws of Motion, and culminates in the building of a model roller coaster. The final unit,

Properties of Matter, will provide students with an overview of chemistry topics, including

elements, compounds, and mixtures.

Students will develop and apply the scientific knowledge, skills, and attitudes that enable

them to make informed use of science concepts. The mix of science units covered will

provide students with an understanding of the connections among and between the various

branches of science, and the application to their daily lives. A broad range of instructional

approaches will be used, including hands-on activities, inquiry based labs, class discussion,

projects and research. Activities are designed to activate prior knowledge, generate

questions, and develop an extensive understanding of science concepts.

U.S. History 8 The goal of this course is to provide students with a comprehensive examination of United

States History from pre-colonial times through the Civil War. More importantly, the end goal

of this course is to provide students with the ability to interpret primary source materials

recognizing their content, main ideas, and limited perspectives. It is also to have students

be able to support generalizations with specific evidence and to present information in a

clear and credible fashion. Finally, it is the goal of the course to have students become

productive citizens who can think critically about issues, construct an informed opinion and

defend an argument.

This yearlong course is organized into units based on historical time periods. There are

eleven units which include, but are not limited to: Discovery and Exploration, Settlement

and Colonization, Native Americans with a Wisconsin Focus, Beginnings of An American

Identity, The Road to Revolution, Confederation to Constitution, Launching a New

Government, National and Regional Growth, A Changing Nation, The Nation Breaking

Apart, and The Civil War. Some units will include a project or simulation; all will use primary

sources.

Health & Physical Education: Meets Every Other Day Health 8 (meets every other day

opposite Physical

Education)

The eighth grade health curriculum is required of all students and is taught every other

day; (opposite physical education) for an entire year. In this class students will learn

about the major health issues we face today and the risk factors involved in these areas.

Focus areas include the physical, emotional, mental and social components of health.

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Students will be taught the health-related skills and knowledge to live a healthy and

productive life.

Units of study include:

- Mental and emotional health

- Building safe and healthy relationships – (bullying prevention)

- Physical health and fitness – “Move Your Body”

- Understanding your body – Human Growth

- Injury Prevention and Safety

- Making safe and drug free decisions

- Reality Works – Fetal Alcohol Syndrome – Shaken – Drug effected Babies

- Being environmentally conscious

Physical Education 8

(meets every other day

opposite Health)

The physical education program in 8th grade expands upon the physical activities and fitness skills taught in 6th and 7th grade, with the addition of higher level lifetime activities and personal fitness. Sportsmanship, cooperation, and teamwork are stressed at all grades. Advanced rules and strategies in team and individual sports are taught. New lifetime fitness activities introduced are golf, lacrosse, spinning, archery, 1 wall handball and weight lifting. A portion of each class is devoted to individual fitness. The curriculum enhances lifetime personal physical fitness and engages students to learn more about how to improve health-related physical fitness (aerobic fitness, muscular strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, and body composition), as well as sport-related physical fitness (agility, balance, speed, power, and coordination). The FitnessGram fitness assessment is used throughout the year to assess, report, and educate students on their levels of health-related physical fitness.

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Elective Courses: Meet Daily All Year

Band Band provides the opportunity for students to study instrumental music, with public performance as an end result. The literature used exposes the students to a variety of forms and styles, as well as instruction in music elements. Concert etiquette is stressed.

Choir Choir provides the opportunity for students to study vocal music, with public performance as an end result. The literature used exposes musical styles in three and four parts, as well as instruction in musical elements. Concert etiquette is stressed.

Orchestra Orchestra offers continued study for students who desire to advance in ability to play a stringed instrument. Depth of sound and musical expression is seriously pursued for a mature ensemble experience. Based on availability, small group lessons are occasionally provided. Solo and small ensemble performance is encouraged. Several public concerts representing varied musical forms and styles are presented.

World Languages

French, German or

Spanish (Level Ic)

These courses are a continuation of the 7th grade world language class. Together, the 6th through 8th grade courses are comparable to the Level I courses at the high school. They include the five basic language skills (listening, speaking, reading, writing and culture.) By satisfactorily completing Levels 1a, 1b and 1c in the middle school, students are able to advance to Level II at the high school. In general, only Levels Ia, 1b and Ic students in middle school will be able to take the 5th advanced placement (AP) course in their senior year of high school.

Elective Courses: Meet Daily for 1 Quarter (9 Weeks)

Design Challenge Much like the popular PBS show “Design Squad,” students design, build, and test

engineering projects made for an actual community partner’s needs. Students will meet

with professionals, be given a challenge, and then work in teams to develop a prototype

solution. Students will learn that engineering is fun, creative, and exciting while making use

of all tools and machines in the workshop. Engineers make the world a better place; this is

the chance for students to design and build something from their imaginations that will

actually help people in their community!

Medical Detectives Students will act as medical detectives in identifying, treating, and preventing injury and

illness in their patients. They also investigate and collect vital signs such as heart rate,

blood pressure, and temperature. Students’ final lesson begins with a murder victim found

in an elevator and takes the students into the world of crime scene investigators, medical

examiners, and pathologists. Students have the opportunity to work through a virtual

autopsy and explore how a suspect may be identified through DNA analysis in the process

of solving the crime.

Fitness & Conditioning This class provides exploration and experiences of various physical activities, which will

enable students to make educated decisions when selecting a personal fitness program for

later life. Activities may include: jogging, walking, aerobics, rope jumping, stretching, biking,

rowing, aerobic games, and resistance training alongside the use of heart rate monitors

and various fitness technologies. Students will learn about basic training principles

throughout the class. All activities are dependent on the weather and the availability of

workout areas.

Hands-on Guitar

This class provides instruction on guitar. Flat-picking and finger-picking styles will be

explored. Ensemble playing and lifetime musical skills will be emphasized. If a guitar is

needed, a rental fee will be assessed.

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Hands-on Drumming

This class provides instruction on drumming. Students will experience a variety of

percussion instruments through hands on experience. Study of world drum instruments as

well as the creative use of everyday items, such as garbage cans, chairs, and music

stands will be used to create unique sounds and rhythms. The introduction to reading

rhythm notation will be part of the class. Ensemble playing and individual study will allow

for student creative expression.

Leadership Skills The leadership development course will include lessons in goal setting, problem solving, communication and social skills training. In addition, the concepts of emotional intelligence, and the effects of peer pressure with how to counteract its effects are explored. Other aspects of this class include how to develop a healthy self-concept and healthy relationships in and out of school.

Creative Publications:

Writing and Art

This is an advanced course that aims to link creative writing and the visual arts. Students

who enroll will choose one area to focus on - writing or art. While each group will work

independently, learning advanced techniques within their discipline, they will also work with

the other group in an effort to create a final project that showcases their collective talents.

*You must select either Creative Publications Writing or Art on registration form.

Pop ART This is the class for you if you’re a pop culture fan! We’ll be exploring a variety of subject

matter, such as: celebrities, cartoons, food and advertising. Besides the use of

contemporary images and ideas, we’ll also be learning about several well known Pop

artists, as we use their techniques in our own creations.

2D Art:

Painting, Print Making &

Computer Imaging

Do you like to draw and paint? This is the course where you’ll learn those tricks and

techniques that artists use to make their drawings and paintings better. Everyone is

welcome, and we’ll have you creating beautiful artwork in no time!

3D Techniques:

Ceramics & Sculpture

This course is perfect for students who don’t mind getting a little messy. We explore

several different types of sculpture techniques, such as ceramics, plaster and found object

construction.

Study Hall Those students who need extra support with academic classes are encouraged to select a

study hall. (Students may sign up for a study hall for one or two quarters that meets daily.)

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8th Grade Support Services: Believing that all students can learn, Whitefish Bay Middle School provides a variety of support systems for students’ academic success. These programs are designed to assist students in developing basic skills and productive work habits to better meet the expectations of our academic curriculum.

Math Intervention


Reading Intervention

Academic Support Study Hall

Reading intervention is a supplementary class for students needing specialized help with reading skills. Students receive small group reading comprehension instruction in content area material as well as literature. Also included are vocabulary development, fluency practice, word attack skills instruction and practice, and test taking strategies and preparation work. Students are placed in the course following a review of reading specialist administered test scores and grade level academic progress.


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Middle School Math Progression Flowchart

Documents

Whitefish Bay Middle School Course Description Guide