Middle School Electives

Becoming Art Smart-In this course the students will learn to classify and critique art works by followinga few simple steps. Using what they have learned, the students will be able to form reasoned opinions about art works that are presented (as well as assess any art work they come across in the future).

ARE YOU READY FOR SOME………HIGH SCHOOL? (8TH GRADE)

Eighth grade is finally here and it is a very exciting time for you.  There are so many things to look forward to as you go through the school year, but before you know it, graduation will be here.  It will be time for you to leave us and go on to high school.  For most of you this brings many mixed emotions. You are happy to be graduating, but sad to leave.  You are excited about high school but nervous about whether you can handle it all.  You can’t wait to finally have a locker, but panic (just a little) knowing you have to open it, get your books and get to your next class in less than four minutes!  This course is intended to help ease your mind and prepare you for that next step. Some of the topics will include how to choose a high school, what will be expected of you there and also how to handle some of the most common problems you will encounter over the next four years.

ART APPRECIATION I, II, III, IV (Grade 6)

In this course, you will introduce to the lives and artistic styles of 3-4 great and famous artists.  The artists to be studied are from various art periods/movements, and many of their most famous pieces of artwork will be viewed and discussed.  An art project will be completed for each artist studies.  It will be inspired by the artist’s style or a particular piece of art he/she created.

ART APPRECIATION I, II, III, IV (Grade 7)

In this course, you will build upon your knowledge of art and artists acquired in your 6th grade art classes. You will be introduced to the lives and artistic styles of 3-4 great artists.  The artists to be studies are from various art periods/movements, and many of their most famous pieces of artwork will be viewed and discussed.  An art project will be completed for each artist studied.

ART APPRECIATION I, II, III, IV (Grade 8)

In this course, you will build upon the knowledge you acquired in 6th and 7th grade art classes.  You will be introduced to 3-4 great and famous artists.  An art project will be completed for each artist studied.

ART WORKS

In this course, the students will explore a variety of art media and techniques while completing approximately one project every 2-3 weeks.  Many of the elements of art and principles of design will be reviewed ore introduced, and the students will demonstrate their ability to apply this knowledge while completing each project.

BRING ON BROADWAY

Sing along to favorite Broadway Musicals (Guys and Dolls; Phantom of the Opera, The Sound of Music, The Lion King, and many more! Bring props, and play the part!

BEATLEMANIA

Experience the fun of the “Fab Four”. Sing the loony Octopus’s Garden, visit the Yellow Submarine, and enjoy Hey Jude.  Let it Be as we sing and learn about the Beatles.

BOOK CLUB

Are you excited about reading? This class is for you. Book Club is an opportunity to meet with students who share your love for reading. You will read a variety of different books in small groups and then share what you’ve read in discussion. Class members will choose many of the books read throughout the quarter

CHOIR/CHORUS

Sixth, Seventh and 8th graders join together to sing!

Vocal expression of Liturgy, and other ensemble singing will be the focus..  Learn Soprano, Alto, Tenor, and Bass parts. Prepare for Masses. and Cantor preparation.

COMMUNITY SERVICE

We need you! If you are interested in making a difference and helping others this is your chance.  Students will work together to help plan and take part in various community service projects.

CURRENT EVENTS

In. this course, you will discuss what is happening in the world.  You will become aware of people, events, and countries that are in the news.

CYBERBULLYING INVESTIGATED

This class will discuss what cyberbulllying is and what you cad do about it.  We will talk about real-life cases involving teens and cyberbullying.  We will discuss court cases and how they affect us in our use of the internet and cell phones.  If time allows, we will take one of the cases and present a mock trial to other students

DRAMA

Is acting what you like to do?   If so, this could be for you.  You will try out for different parts in a play and perform for the school.  You will be expected to learn your parts from memory and provide any necessary costume.   Parts are limited but if you are in this class, you will have some responsibility in the production of the play.

ELECTRONIC SCRAPBOOKING ($25 fee)

In this course you will be given the opportunity to create your own bound scrapbook.  You will be able to scan pictures that you have or upload pictures from your digital camera.  These books make great keepsakes or gifts for your grandparents! There is a $25 fee for this course that is due when you register.

FANTASIA

In this class, students will experience the music of Fantasia.  The Sorcerer’s Apprentice; Night on Bald Mountain; Nutcracker; and many other classical masterpieces are seen through the magical world of DISNEY.  Enjoy learning these musical stories through fun animation.

GAMES OF STRATEGY

If you like to play games that requires strategy, than this is a course for you.  You will learn to play scrabble, pinochle, and dominoes.  There will be weekly competitions to determine winners.

GEOGRAPHY

Do you like to travel?  Where would you like to go?.

This course explores different places in the world and the climate of each one.  In this course you will use various materials to design projects that explore are that are intended for use in product packaging and advertising, as well as a project using existing product packaging in a fun way.

GRAPHIC DESIGN-

In this course you will use various materials to design projects that explore art intended for use in product packaging and advertising, as well as a project using existing product packaging in a fun way.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES

FITNESS

In this course, students will learn different ways to improve the health of their body through physical activity.  The course will entail aerobic/anaerobic cardiovascular exercises as well as strength training.  Students are required to have proper clothing and footwear, running or cross training shoes.

EXERCISE PHYSIOLOGY (8TH GRADE ONLY)

This course will cover the structure and function of the human body as well as Kinesiology.  Students will learn the basics of the body.  In addition they will learn how the human body functions under the stress of physical activity.

SAFETY AND FIRST AID

You will learn the basics about recognizing and treating injuries.  You will also take a look at how to prevent injuries and what to do in an emergency.

NUTRITION

Students will explore the various nutrients in food and learn correct eating habits to improve their health.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Students will learn and engage in various sports that will be based on team work and cooperation.

HIP-HOP ($30 FEE)

If you want to learn the latest moves from your favorite music video, this is the class for you.  Boys and girls are welcome.  This class will be taught by a dance instructor form Dee’s School of Dance in Runnemede. There is a $30 fee for this course that is due when you register.

KARATE ($30 fee)

In this course you will learn the timing, tactics, and spirit needed to engage in the ancient art of karate.  Tang Soo Karate will be taught.  This Martial Art is a 2,000 year old discipline.  You will be taught by Master Barbara Giacobbe a 7th Degree Black Belt karate master from Tang Soo Karate Studio in Blackwood.  There is a $30 fee for this course that is due when you register

INSTRUMENT ENSEMBLE

Do you play guitar? Violin? Flute? Sax? Piano? Other? We meet and play in solos, duets, and possibly, together for fun and to appreciate each other's talents.

JEWELRY MAKING

In this course, you will use a variety of materials and techniques to make beads, charms, pendants, etc. that will be incorporated into pieces of jewelry such as necklaces and bracelets.  A great way to make gifts for others!

LANDMARKS, MONUMENTS, AND PATRIOTIC SYMBOLS

You will be introduced to landmarks, monuments, and patriotic symbols that are part of our nation.  Discussion on the importance and history of each will be done though library materials.

MATH MANIA

Do you enjoy brainteasers and playing mathematical games?  Do you love math? If so, this class is for you! In this class you will experience many math challenges, play a variety of math games, and work together on weekly math skills. You will also learn that math can be FUN!

MUSIC APPRECIATION

Students will continue to learn about what music is an d how it is an integral part of all societies.  Various selected composers will be featured.  These composers studies will include information on their lives, music and the times in which they lived.

THE PRESIDENTS

In this course, students will learn about the lives of both well know presidents and also presidents that are not as well known.  They will learn about historical and political accomplishments of the presidents as well as their hobbies, pets, and family life.

REEL TO REAL

Prerequisite: parent permission to watch teacher approved PG-rated films.

Do you love getting "real" about movies that you’ve seen? REEL-TO-REAL will challenge you to become thoughtful, active viewers, and give you the opportunity to talk and write about films in new and exciting ways. We will examine many aspects of film genres, as well as focus on young adult themes (coming-of-age, families, belonging, and fulfilling dreams). Small group discussion, reflections, and research, using graphs and charts will be required.

CHORUS

This course will build a group of performers.  Students will learn songs, hymns and join together to experience speaking and choral singing.  Also, they will learn music notation and music appreciation.

RHYTHM & MOVEMENT

In this dance course, students will build knowledge about the field of dance, it’s history, how it has grown, famous people in the field, and basic dance warm up and dance combinations.

DANCE APPRECIATION

In this course students will experience dance alone as the action itself, the movement, the art, the grace and coordination it takes to perfect the movement.

ROCKIN' THE OLDIES

Enjoy singing Doo-Wop, Beatles, Beach Boys, Novelty Songs, ex. “Does Your Chewing Gum Lose Its Flavor on the Bedpost Overnight?”  Bring Props!

Learn some of the old group 'moves' in rhythm

SCHOOL NEWSPAPER

You will learn all about being a reporter as you interview students and staff. You will use computers to write, revise, and edit stories which are published in the school newspaper.  You will be responsible for getting the news that will be posted on the school web site. You may also take pictures for the school paper and illustrate stories.

SCULPTURE

In this course, you will be introduced to a variety of materials and techniques that may be used in the completion of projects that are 3-D, rather than 2-D.  Be aware that some items from home (for example, a variety of boxes, old game pieces, etc) will be required in order to complete some of the possible projects.

STOCK MARKET

In This course you will learn how America invests in its future and how the stock market works.  You will have the opportunity to keep an investment portfolio and watch your investments advance or decline.  You will learn how to track the stock market through company symbols by using the internet. You will be making charts and graphs to show weekly progress.  Will your investment portfolio be worth the most money at the end of the course? Happy Investing!

TECHNOLOGY

In this course you will learn how to word process, create spreadsheets, use power-point, and make presentations.  You will use templates as well as make your own creations. Assignments will be geared toward personal and practical situations. A strong emphasis will be placed on working independently. Students must have a flash drive for this class.

TODAY’S CULTURE (WWJD)

This course will visit some of the events and issues that are happening today and explore different ways of seeing them.  Students will discuss these issues and, at the same time, use scripture and our Christian faith to better understand how we view them.  WWJD What Would Jesus Do?  Students will use computer skills to research Scripture and write their responses.

YOU BE THE JUDGE

The laws involving teenagers can be confusing.  This course will look at real cases of teens in trouble with the law and what decisions were made by the courts.  We will discuss if we agree with those decisions and how it affects our lives.  There will also be guest speakers from various legal professions.

WHAT WILL YOU STAND FOR

We know what we should stand for but, in real life, it is sometimes hard to do the right thing.  This course is a chance for you to explore your character and leadership skills.  We will be using true stories, quotations, activities and moral dilemmas to challenge you to be the best person you can be and a leader among your peers.  Identifying problems and developing solutions as a group will help you decide, not only what you will stand for, but also what you won’t stand for.

Last Updated on Thursday, 08 September 2011 13:42