Language Arts Department

6^th Grade Language Arts

Students will develop their writing skills using the Six Trait Model focusing on expository writing. In addition, young adult literature units are implemented to integrate the language components of reading, writing, speaking, and listening.

6^th Grade Reading

The purpose is to create life-long readers by promoting independent reading. This is accomplished using novels and various genres. Students are exposed to the elements of literature – setting, plot, characters, etc. Students respond to text citing specific references from the book to support their opinions when answering questions.

7^th Grade Language Arts

7th grade language arts follows Kansas State Standards for reading, literature, writing and research. During the course of the year students read several novels, nonfiction articles related to the novels and short stories. Students use the writing process and the Six Traits of Writing Model to compose narrative, expository and persuasive papers. They also choose books to read independently, take AR tests, and record unfamiliar vocabulary on a graphic organizer. NWEA testing is done four times a year to identify a student's strengths and weaknesses in reading and language use.

Communications/Reading

The 7th grade communications course focuses on three areas of communications: writing, reading, and speaking. Students employ the use of journals to record daily entries as well as to store pieces of formal writing, in order to improve writing skills. In the area of reading, students have the opportunity to enjoy and appreciate good literature while at the same time study figurative language and learn its value in writing and speaking. Finally, the basics of oral communication are studied and practiced through opportunities to speak both formally and informally, in order to develop effective speaking skills. The course is offered every semester and is a requirement for most 7th graders.

8^th Grade Language Arts

Eighth grade language arts is an opportunity for students to increase their reading and writing skills. In addition to reading self-selected novels, students will read high quality short stories and novels. Each piece of literature is discussed with relevant comprehension and critical thinking questions. Students will also read and comprehend expository, persuasive and technical reading. By emphasizing expository writing through use of the six traits, students will also develop and sharpen their writing skills, including grammar, punctuation and vocabulary.

Language !

Language! is designed to systematically and explicitly teach 18 reading and language arts strands in 90-minute blocks daily. It includes focused and direct instruction in phonemic (sound) concepts, phonemic awareness, phoneme-grapheme (sound-letter) correspondence, syllabication, word recognition and word analysis, spelling, vocabulary development, comprehension, writing process and practice, grammar and mechanics, sentence structure and use of figurative language. It includes fluency building and a variety of comprehension skills (paraphrasing, comparing and contrasting, summarizing, evaluating, etc.) in increasingly difficult levels as students move through the curriculum. It has built in repetition and builds skills upon mastery of previous skills.

Math Department

6^th Grade Math

The sixth grade math curriculum is based on Kansas State Mathematics Standards. Emphasis is placed on the assessed benchmarks. Topics include number theory, algebra, geometry and statistics while utilizing real world problem solving skills. Students will use the Prentice Hall Course One Mathematics series, Accelerated Math and other resources to achieve these objectives.

6^th Grade Math +

The sixth grade math plus curriculum is based on Kansas State Mathematics Standards. Emphasis is placed on the assessed benchmarks. Topics include number theory, algebra, geometry and statistics while utilizing real world problem solving skills. Plus math classes are differentiated by the amount of time spent on applying skills and reasoning. Students will use the Prentice Hall Course One Mathematics series, Accelerated Math and other resources to achieve these objectives.

7^th Grade Math

Our main goal is to work on those concepts that are on the Kansas State Math Assessment. This class is aligned with state math standards and will prepare students to take a pre-algebra class as 8th graders. Some of the main topics covered are applications of fractions, geometry and measurement, data and probability, percents, and the use of formulas and equations.

7^th Grade Math Block

This course supports the development and maintenance for essential concepts, strategies, and skills in mathematics. Students begin at the appropriate level and are monitored daily on amount, quality, and grade level increase in mathematical skill. Instruction will stress the need to set short and long term goals to achieve maximum growth during the study of mathematics.

Pre-Algebra

Students in this class should need very little review of elementary concepts. Our main goal is to work on those concepts that are on the Kansas State Math Assessment. This class is aligned with state math standards and will prepare students to take an algebra class.  Students will be doing more extensive work solving equations and working with algebraic concepts.

Algebra

This is a beginning course in Algebra, which focuses on solving equations and inequalities limited to the real number system.  In addition to solving single variable equations and inequalities, students will solve and graph linear equations and inequalities with up to two variables and begin using radicals and rational functions.  Problem solving applications of all skills are integrated into the coursework.  Students who successfully complete this course are prepared for Geometry I at the high school level.

Science Department

6^th Grade Science

Sixth grade students use an inquiry approach to learning science. The emphasis is on the scientific processes in which students ask questions, construct explanations, test those explanations against current scientific knowledge, and communicate their ideas to others. They use critical and logical thinking and consider alternative explanations as they experience first hand the thrill and excitement of science through an integrated curriculum in which all subject areas are interconnected.

7^th Grade Science

The 7th Grade General Science curriculum includes all of the scientific disciplines. The focus is on the history and nature of science and how they relate to physical science, life science, earth and space science, as well as technology. Students will also use inquiry skills to investigate scientific principles.

8^th Grade Science

8th Grade Science is a general science class that includes physical, earth, and life sciences. Specifically, we will study forces and motion, natural resources, heredity, weather and climate, chemistry of matter, and astronomy. No human body systems will be covered in this class.

Social Studies Department

6^th Grade Social Studies

Ancient civilizations from Mesopotamia through the Renaissance will be the emphasis in 6^th grade social studies. Students will also cover economics, geography, civics and government.

7^th Grade Social Studies

7th Grade Social Studies will examine the physical geography of the world including how landforms develop to countries and major cities around the world. Economic systems and civics of various countries including the U.S. will be researched with projects of skill application. Another unit will focus students on Kansas History, past to present.

8^th Grade Social Studies

American History is the study of the development of our nation’s past. Students will use a myriad of abilities in their exploration of our American heritage. Pupils shall use several disciplines to build skills in reading, writing and critical thinking. Students will engage in many different types of learning from the creative to the cognitive. Eighth grade American History examines time periods from the Revolutionary War to World War I.

Art Department

Explore Art 6^th Grade Cost: $2.00

Students work semi-independently on projects presented in class. Self-motivation is a must.

Art I Cost: $5.00

This class is an introduction to art concepts and techniques. Students should be open minded and be willing to try new things.

Art II Cost: $5.00

Art I is a pre-requisite for Art II. Art II is a continuation of Art I but with a greater sense of student responsibility on developing skills and concepts.

Family and Consumer Sciences Department

Explore FACS Survey 6^th Grade Cost: $2.00

In this exploratory, students learn how to use the sewing machine and create two small projects to take home. There are minimal fees involved in taking this course. When the projects are completed students study a lesson on constructive ways to deal with adversity in life.

FACS Survey I

This is a semester long class. This Family and Consumer Science course addresses various life skills that a student could apply to real life. There are a variety of subjects studied including: sewing skills and technology, interior design, money management, consumer issues, nutrition and weight control, family relationships, dealing with stress, and wardrobe selection and care. These courses are project-oriented so they are hands-on type, generally. There is some expense involved in taking these courses since students take the projects home. Computer module lessons are a part of the learning experience.

FACS Survey II

This is a semester long class. This Family and Consumer science course is more advanced than FACS Survey I, therefore, a student must have taken FACS Survey I in order to take FACS Survey II. Students will learn more about various types of sewing technology, such a sergers and embroidery machines. They will create a lap quilt and another project using a pattern. Students will also study units on personality types, self-esteem, and relationship skills. Like FACS Survey I, this course also has some expense involved, as the students take home their projects.

Explore Foods 6^th Grade Cost: $2.00

This is a 6-week exploratory foods course, which will introduce students to very basic cooking, safety and cleanliness in the kitchen. The students will make quick snacks. Aprons used in this class will be borrowed from the teacher.

Foods and Family Cost: $5.00

This is a one-semester class for 7^th or 8^th grade students. After learning procedures for measuring, food and equipment safety, and cleanliness in the kitchen, these students will prepare a variety of simple recipes. These students will also participate in a “life skills” game that will focus on management of time and money. The students will also need to furnish an apron with a hand towel attached, a file box and file cards. This equipment may also be borrowed from the teacher.

Foreign Language Department

Explore Foreign Languages 6^th Grade

The students will use basic conversation vocabulary (greetings, farewells, courtesies, and numbers) in two languages: three weeks of Spanish and three weeks of French.

French (8^th grade)

This is a one-semester course. The student will practice basic conversation vocabulary: greetings, farewells, courtesies, classroom, calendar, family, food, clothing, colors, time, weather and a little bit of geography. Students will also be exposed to cultural aspects and authentic materials of French-Speaking countries.

Spanish (7^th and 8^th)

This is a one-semester course. The students will practice basic conversation vocabulary: greetings, farewells, courtesies, classroom, calendar, family, food, clothing, colors, time, weather and a little bit of geography. Students will also be exposed to cultural aspects and authentic materials of Spanish-Speaking countries.

ESL (semester or yearly as needed)

The two-fold purpose of this class is to provide homework support and improvement of language skills for non-native speakers of English.

Music Department

6^th Grade Band

In this course students will improve technique on a specific instrument. They will also increase their base musical knowledge by exploration and repetition. They will perform developmentally appropriate literature and participate in public performances.

7^th Grade Band

In this course students will improve technique on a specific instrument. They will also increase their base musical knowledge by exploration and repetition. They will perform developmentally appropriate literature and participate in public performances.

8^th Grade Band

In this course students will improve technique on a specific instrument. They will also increase their base musical knowledge by exploration and repetition. They will perform developmentally appropriate literature and participate in public performances.

Jazz Band

In this course students will improve technique on a specific instrument. They will also increase their base musical knowledge by exploration and repetition. Students will also learn the basics of improvisation. They will perform developmentally appropriate literature and participate in public performances.

Beginning Guitar

This is a beginning guitar course. No prior musical experience on an instrument is required. Guitars are furnished by the school district and will remain in the building. Students will learn how to read music, chord charts, tablature and play simple riffs on the guitar. Practice occurs during class, so good attendance is required in order to succeed.

6^th Grade General Music

This course teaches students basics in reading music, develops listening skills, teaches famous composers, music from other cultures and basic piano and guitar skills. Students also create their own melodies and study music in America from the 1900’s to today.

Semester Choir 7^th & 8^th Grade

Students will practice reading music, discussions on musical styles and history; demonstrate proper breathing, good tone and proper dictation. They will learn to sing as a group and perform concerts throughout the year.

Chansonaires

This is a yearlong course for 7^th and 8^th grade students. They will practice reading music, discussions on musical styles and history; demonstrate proper breathing, good tone and proper dictation. They will learn to sing as a group and perform concerts throughout the year.

6^th Grade Orchestra

6th Grade Orchestra is open to all students interested in playing a string instrument. No previous instruction required. Instruction on violin, viola, cello and string bass are offered. Students will receive help in determining an appropriate instrument for them. Students wanting to play violin will need to make arrangements to provide their own instrument. The school district has a limited number of violas, cellos and basses for student use. These instruments require a small rental fee from students and are done on a first come first serve basis. Students will be learning string playing basics and have opportunities to perform during the school year.

7^th and 8^th Grade Orchestra

7th and 8th Orchestra is open to any student who has at least one-year prior string instruction. Students playing violin will need to provide their own instrument and those playing viola, cello or bass may use school owned instruments on a first come first serve basis. Students playing school owned instruments might want to be considering a purchase of their own instrument at this time. Students in this intermediate level orchestra will be building/expanding on string basics and adding to their musical repertoire. These students will perform at regular intervals during the school year and be eligible to attend a middle school level music competition.

Physical Education Department

Explore Wellness 6^th Grade

This is a 6-week long class. The goal is to give facts and educate students on healthy choices for life. Subject matters include: drug abuse and addiction, body image, bullying and social skills.

6^th Grade Physical Education

6^th grade physical education is a yearlong class that alternates with music. Students do various units including: the physical fitness test, soccer, speed-a-way, pickleball, badminton, basketball, tennis, softball and a variety of other fitness games.

7^th Grade Physical Education

This is a semester class. The curriculum of the 7^th grade Physical Education is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge that will help them stay healthy and fit throughout their lifetime. The main focus is improving each student’s level of fitness. Students will also participate in both lifetime activities and in team sports. Units that will be taught include: badminton, pickleball, floor hockey, volleyball, basketball, eclipseball, softball and tennis.

8^th Grade Physical Education

This is a semester class. The main emphasis is on improving fitness. The class exercises everyday. Team and individual lifetime sports are incorporated in the class such as pickleball, volleyball, archery, softball, tennis basketball, low organizational games and the Youth Marine Corp. Physical Fitness Test (Pre and Post).

Weight Training

Weight training is an elective class. Students are given a chance to workout everyday. There are three different workouts’ that are on a three-day rotation. Students will learn the exercises and lifts along with safety for each workout. There are some free-weights but most of the lifting is done on machines.

Technology Department

Explore Technology 6^th Grade Cost: $2.00

This is a six-week exploratory for sixth graders. It is designed to give students an easy introduction to the tech lab. You will complete five or six different technology missions. You will work in a mission for three days, with a partner, before rotating to a new mission with a new partner. Some of the missions include Teamwork, Engineering, Simulation and Laservision.

Technology If a student takes this course twice: Cost: $5.00

Explorations in Technology is a semester long course where you will work in the tech lab to complete eight different technology modules.  You will work in a module, with a partner, for seven days before rotating to a new module with a new partner.  Each day you will "log in" on a computer to complete several lessons before going to some sort of hands on project.  You will be both challenged and excited by the variety of activities you will be involved in while in the tech lab.  Some of the modules include Robots, Rocketry & Space, Computer Graphics & Animation and Video Production.

Computer Technology 8^th Grade Requirement

This is a semester long, hands on class that teaches the basics of keyboarding. Students that show proficiency with keyboarding skills will be allowed to skip the Basic Computer Applications class at ACHS and move on to Advanced Computer Applications. Proficiency is 25 words per minute with six or fewer errors. Students are also taught the basics of Microsoft Word, Power Point, and Excel.

Explore Keyboarding 6^th Grade

This is a six weeks, hands on class that teaches the basics of keyboarding. Students will focus on learning the keyboard, proper finger touch, and posture while working at the computer. Students will also create a basic Powerpoint presentation.

Agriculture Education Department

Ag. Explorations

This course is a semester long class targeted to eighth grade students who want to explore the opportunities available in agriculture. Emphasis will be placed on agriculture literacy, consumer education, and leadership development. This is a hands-on course that will involve many short units including careers in agriculture, plant and animal science, and agribusiness. Students will also be introduced to the National FFA Organization and the opportunities that exist.