Elective Courses

Grade Level: 7, 8
Prerequisite: Concert Band or permission of teacher
Length: Two semesters
Description: The major emphasis of this course is on developing musicianship through the study of band literature. Students will extend the physical skills necessary to play simple band music accurately and with good tone quality, will improve skills in reading musical notation, will increase understanding of the musical elements, and will study and play music of many styles, cultures, and historical periods. Participation in designated performances is required to satisfy basic objectives of this course. 

Grade Level: 7, 8
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
Length: Two semesters
Description: This class is mainly for students that would be the first in their family to graduate from a university. The goal of the elective AVID class is to help each student obtain higher grades in academically challenging courses by learning comprehensive study skills, writing, inquiry, collaboration and reading strategies, and by participating in tutorials conducted by peer tutors. The course includes: WICOR (Writing, Inquiry, Collaboration, Organization, and Reading) strategies, study skills, career and college exploration, test-taking skills, and motivational activities.

Grade Level: 7, 8
Prerequisite: None
Length: One semester
Description: This STEAM course includes advanced science and technology modules such as study of the engineering design process, hot air balloons, computer aided design (CAD), 3D printing, robotics, and coding.

Grade Level: 7, 8
Prerequisite: None
Length: One quarter
Description: This course provides hands-on learning experiences for students for students in basic cooking, baking, food preparation, nutrition, kitchen and food safety.  Students will also have the opportunity to learn finance basics. This course will begin to prepare students for possible careers in Hospitality, Tourism, and Recreation

Grade Level: 7, 8 
Prerequisite: None
Length: Two semesters
College Entrance: Meets UC/CSU (e) Language Other Than English requirement if subsequent level Spanish course completed in high school.
Description: Spanish I is a college preparatory, introductory course to the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures. The emphasis will be given to activities focusing on essential language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing). The goal is to develop fluency and comprehension of the Spanish language. The student will gain an appreciation of Hispanic cultures through readings, media, speakers, and geography. Formative skills in reading and writing will also be introduced.

Grade Level: 7, 8
Prerequisite: None
Length: One semester
Description: Art/Crafts I focuses on using the elements of art and principles of design to develop creative works of art. Students become familiar with art studio practices, and gain experience in a variety of artistic processes including: drawing, painting, ceramics, sculpture, digital art, and art history.

Grade Level: 7, 8
Prerequisite: None
Length: Two semesters
Description: The major emphasis of this course is to develop musicianship and vocal music technique through the study of quality choral music. Students will develop aesthetic awareness through the study of the elements of music, and singing literature of various styles, cultures, and historical periods. Participation in designated performances and rehearsals is required to satisfy basic objectives of this course.

Grade Level: 7, 8
Prerequisite: None
Length: Two semesters
Description: The major emphasis of this course is to continue to learn to play a band instrument, to develop skills necessary to play beginning-level music accurately with good tone quality, to read musical notation, and to provide performance opportunities. Participation in designated performances is required to satisfy basic objectives of this course.

Grade Level: 7, 8
Prerequisite: None
Length: One semester 
Description: Middle School Digital Visual Media will expose students to the principles of graphic design and digital media through hands-on and project-based learning experiences. Students will be introduced to technical and aesthetic skills, design thinking and design-related areas associated with careers in digital media production. The course will equip students with foundational skills in digital photography and image creation with Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator. They will also document their creative process using Learning Journals created in Adobe Express. This course will prepare students for success in the High School Arts, Media and Entertainment CTE pathway. 

Grade Level: 8
Prerequisite: None
Length: One or two semesters
Description: Students will gain leadership skills and practical experience through the study of qualities of great leaders, personal relations, Robert's Rules of Order, and public speaking. Students will be required to spend time after school conducting activities they have planned. The class is a service group for the school and community.

Grade Level: 8
Prerequisite: None
Length: One or two semesters, or one quarter
Description: This course introduces students to the content creation for the Art, Media, and Entertainment Career Path. It develops traditional, digital, and audio-visual communication skills in the arts and sciences. Students will learn the art of self- discipline and teamwork while building self-confidence through the production of a finished product. Projects for the community could include public service announcements and the promotion of learning that will be broadcast on television and posted on the school website. Students will utilize digital devices: computers, camcorders, cameras, and scanners to produce scripts, storyboards, animations, video programs, and special effects.