Course Registration Information

SEMESTER - REQUIRED COURSES

FOUNDATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY AND CHARACTER

The goal of this class is to give every student the opportunity to learn foundational skills of being a successful student and citizen. This semester long class will focus on student leadership, building one’s character, ensuring all students understand and practice following through on what it means to be an effective citizen and member of an academic and professional community. This class also focuses on teaching students core concepts related to digital technology, focusing on applications, skills and habits that students will be asked to rely on throughout their academic and professional career.

HEALTH AND FITNESS

This course is designed to improve the student's overall physical skills and knowledge by the presentation of both individual and team activities. Opportunities are provided to develop physical fitness, sportsmanship, recreational skills and appreciation for good health habits. Health curriculum is integrated into the weekly physical activities for students to identify what they can do to achieve their healthiest self.

SEMESTER – ELECTIVES

(All elective courses are subject to change)

INTRODUCTION to ART

In this introductory course, students will gain an understanding and appreciation for the visual arts! We focus on the elements of art and explore basic art techniques and mediums. We will explore art history, movements in art, as well as contemporary art as they relate to our own projects. This class is perfect for the beginner artist!

EXPLORING ENGINEERING I

This exploratory S.T.E.M. course incorporates project-based learning with a focus on the engineering cycle. Students will learn about a variety of topics including power tool safety & operation, measurement, robotics, CNC manufacturing, transportation, and computer aided drafting & design (CADD). Projects include mousetrap racers, electric dragsters and more.

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES I

Students will have introductory experiences in multiple independent living areas in this semester-long course. They will learn the basics of babysitting, interior design, food safety and simple cooking skills in team and individualized settings. Through these experiences, this course will begin to equip students with the essential life skills and confidence to thrive independently.

PE ELECTIVE

This class is designed to motivate and inspire students to be active. Activities will include participation in both individual sports where students will learn about setting personal fitness goals and team sports where students will learn and develop skills, strategy and key concepts for a variety of team sports.

MUSIC ELECTIVES – FULL YEAR

CHOIR

(Grades 7 and 8) Let your voice be heard! Choir is for 7th and 8th grade students who love to sing and perform. All students are welcome! Choir members learn to sing in three-part harmony, baritone, alto and soprano. This class will offer instruction in vocal technique, choral performance, ear training and music reading. Students will learn rehearsal technique and concert etiquette. Concert choir takes two field trips a year, including one to an adjudicated choral festival in March. There are also four required evening concerts and occasional assembly performances. Solo opportunities may also be available to those students interested. Students unable to take first semester due to scheduling conflicts are welcome to join in second semester.

CADET BAND

(Grade 7) Cadet band consists of students with at least one year of band experience in elementary school. Students continue to learn basic instrumental technique, rehearsal technique and concert etiquette. We strive to develop young musicians who wish to make music a part of their everyday lives. Participation in the MPMEA Band Festival and some evening performances are required. Students are required to provide their own instrument for this class, however, there are some school-owned instruments available to checkout. Contact Mr. Sackman at 360-563-3294 or nathan.sackman@sno.wednet.edu for more information.

FULL YEAR - REQUIRED COURSE

WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY

The course will examine tribal Native American history, follow exploration and statehood formation and continue to present-day Washington State. It will require students to become familiar with different concepts, ideas, groups and institutions that have had an impact on both the history and the contemporary situation of Washington state. Washington state history focuses on the development of the State and the interactions of its peoples. Study includes the political, social, economic, cultural and geographical conditions of Washington state and the surrounding regions and seeks to understand our relationship with the nation and the world. Emphasis is put on inquiry-based research.

This course is a high school graduation requirement.

FULL YEAR - REQUIRED COURSES

LANGUAGE ARTS

Using novels and our state standards, 7th grade Language Arts students will work to increase their reading, writing, thinking, and speaking skills. Students should expect a program that helps them grow and work at grade level, through discussions, group projects and individual work.

ADVANCED LANGUAGE ARTS

The middle school advanced program is for a student who wants to be challenged by accelerated and advanced work. Using state standards, students will write extensively, participate in group discussions, and have ample opportunities to engage with compelling texts. Students should be comfortable working on both group and individual projects, sharing their work with others, and giving and receiving feedback. A strong work ethic is essential for Advanced Language Arts.

FULL YEAR - REQUIRED COURSE

All incoming 7th grade students are initially placed into Math 7. Placement in Advanced Math or Algebra is based on their achievement as measured by STAR Test and SBA scores.

Math 7

Students will study ratio and proportion, percent, graphing, probability, measurement, integers and linear proportions. SBA preparation is addressed.

Accelerated Math 7/8

This course is an acceleration course that will prepare the student for Algebra the following year. It is based upon vital 7th and 8th grade Common Core State Math Standards: Rational numbers and number theory; linear equations and functions; proportionality and similarity; properties and relationships in geometric figures; probability and data; and additional key contents. Course pace is rigorous to accommodate all necessary concepts and requires entrance recommendations and testing.

Algebra 1

This course introduces fundamental operation of equations and formulas, studies of ratio, proportion, variation, indirect measurements, polynomial operations, factoring and operation with radical expressions. Students will solve equations (linear, quadratic and systems) and inequalities using graphing, substitution and/or addition. The student is also introduced to principles governing system and set theory. Course pace is rigorous to accommodate all necessary concepts and requires entrance recommendations and testing. This course provides one high school math credit upon successful completion (see note on transcript policy).

Transcript policy for high-school-credit math courses taken during 7th and 8th grades

Regarding high-school-credit math courses (Algebra & Geometry) taken during 7th or 8th grade:

• Grades will be posted to the students’ middle school transcript.
• Grades will be posted to the students’ high school transcript. When posted to the high school transcript, the grades: 
  • will accurately indicate when the class was taken 
  • will be included in the student’s high school graduation credits and GPA

The 7th Grade Math Course Recommendation Process helps us recommend the most suitable math course for your student as they enter middle school. This is an important step, as it ensures each student is placed in a course that meets their current needs and will foster their growth in mathematics, setting them on a strong path for future math education.

For 7th graders, three math courses are available:

7th grade math	A course covering 7th grade math standards
Accelerated 7th grade math	A more challenging course for students ready to move at an advanced page. This covers all of 7th grade math standards plus half of 8th grade standards.
Middle school algebra	A rigorous course designed for students prepared for an accelerated high school-level experience. This course covers the other half of 8th grade standards plus all Algebra I standards.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

7th grade math course recommendation process

A middle school data team, including educators and administrators, will review each student’s information to recommend the course they feel will best support their academic growth. This recommendation is made by looking at multiple types of data to create a well-rounded understanding of each student’s abilities. The data includes:

• 4th and 5th grade math SBA scores
• 5th and 6th grade STAR math scores 
• Anecdotal observations and recommendations from 6th grade teachers who know your student’s abilities and learning behaviors in the classroom.

By the end of May, we will send a letter with the 7th Grade Math Course Recommendation for your student. If you have any questions or concerns about the recommendation process or your student’s course recommendation, please feel free to reach out to your student’s middle school principal.

Middle school math class Content descriptions

7th grade math

This course will cover the core content as outlined by the Washington State Learning Standards which include ratios and proportional relationships, rational numbers operations, algebraic expressions and equations, angle measure/surface area/volume, statistics and probability. This course has vital concepts that serve as a foundational basis for all future math courses.

Accelerated 7th math

This course is an acceleration course that will prepare the student for Algebra the following year. It is based upon vital 7th and 8th grade Washington State Learning Standards for math. In addition to the 7th grade concepts, this course also covers the following 8th grade standards: linear equations, systems of equations and functions; properties and relationships in geometric figures; patterns of association in bivariate data.

Middle school algebra

This course will cover the core content for the remaining 8th grade standards and all high school Algebra 1 standards. The topics for this course are outlined by the Washington State Learning Standards for math: Exponents, rational and irrational numbers; linear, exponential and quadratic functions; polynomial operations; solving systems of equations/inequalities; interpret categorical and quantitative data.

• This course has advanced rigorous academic content that qualifies for a high school math credit and will appear on the student’s high school transcript.

Secondary mathematics possible pathways

The following is a table showing the possible pathways for math courses depending upon the levels of math taken in the middle school. Each pathway satisfies the minimum standards for high school graduation and college entry.

FULL YEAR - REQUIRED COURSE

This class is an integrated science class based on the Next Generation Science Standards. This will give students a basic understanding of the relationships between organisms in ecosystems, natural resource availability, basic chemistry concepts, cycling of matter through living and non-living things, and how humans change the landscape.

Goal: Student access to and success in advanced English Language Arts courses

Interest, motivation, and perseverance indicators

Students who are successful in advanced courses:

• Demonstrate a high level of interest, academic engagement, and an innate curiosity to learn in courses of interest.
• Are highly self-motivated, take responsibility for their own learning, attend class regularly, complete quality assignments on time, and recognize that effort is important for success.
• Maintain a high standard in academic integrity.
• Successfully complete complex tasks that require extra time, thought, and perseverance.
• Examine and learn from errors, demonstrate a willingness to try different approaches, problem solve, make revisions to work throughout the learning process, seek help, and access available resources.
• Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher led)

Academic indicators

Students who are successful in advanced English Language Arts courses:

• Has a history of curiosity around language, reading, and writing.
• Reads two or more years above grade level.
• Demonstrates advanced reading and communication skills.
• Reads and writes beyond required assignments. Has a history of creating own reading and writing projects.
• Consistently shows interest in the details of language (word origins, grammar, sentence structure, etc.)

Middle school data teams will review data (SBA, Star, teacher input, grades) and above-mentioned indicators to confirm appropriate placement. Any changes necessary will be communicated.

SEMESTER - REQUIRED COURSES

HEALTH AND FITNESS

This course is designed to improve the student's overall physical skills and knowledge by the presentation of both individual and team activities. Opportunities are provided to develop physical fitness, sportsmanship, recreational skills and appreciation for good health habits. Health curriculum is integrated into the weekly physical activities for students to identify what they can do to achieve their healthiest self.

SEMESTER - 8TH GRADE EXPLORATORY ELECTIVES

(All elective courses are subject to change)

8TH FITNESS ELECTIVE

This class designed to motivate and inspire students to be active. Activities will include participation in both individual sports where students will learn about setting personal fitness goals and team sports where students will learn and develop skills, strategy and key concepts for a variety of team sports. Students may only take one semester of fitness electives

DRAWING and PAINTING

Students who enjoy drawing and would like to take their skills to the next level will enjoy this course! Students will create and gain an understanding of 2D media while learning classical drawing and painting techniques. Working mostly with paper, students will explore mediums such as pencil, charcoal, pastel, watercolor, printmaking, and collage.

SCULPTURE & CRAFTS

In this course students will use materials such as paper mâché, plaster, clay, wire and cardboard to create three-dimensional sculptures. Students will also create traditional and contemporary crafts, both functional and decorative, using a variety of techniques employed by different cultures around the world. These include felting, wire and bead work, paper beads, glass prisms, slow stitching and recycled art. If you enjoy working with your hands, this this is the class for you!

FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES II

This class will cover two areas of instruction – Personal Choices and Culinary Arts. Personal Choices: A few years from now you will be leaving the “nest”, and we want you to become contributing members of society and thrive in this crazy thing we call life! This class will help students see firsthand what it is like to live independently and make personal choices that impact their future.

Areas of Focus:

• Future plans, personalities, values, self-concept and self-esteem
• Job applications and job interview tips/tricks
• Budgeting, pay stubs and credit vs debit

CULINARY ARTS

This class will introduce students to the basic principles of food preparation and nutrition. Students will learn to cook and bake a variety of tasty foods as a team from scratch! Areas of Focus:

• Food safety and sanitation procedures
• Food preparation methods and techniques to produce a variety of food
• Time management skills

EXPLORING ENGINEERING II

This exploratory S.T.E.M. course incorporates project-based learning with a focus on the engineering cycle. Students will apply problem solving, visual communication, and industrial skills to design and build challenging and exciting projects. Units of study include power tool safety & operation, manufacturing, electricity/electronics, applied physics, computer aided drafting & design (CADD), and structures. Projects include aerospace design, Co2 cars, and more. (Exploring Engineering 1 is not a pre-requisite for this course.)

DIGITAL PRODUCTION

This class will expose students to digital photography and the skills needed to go beyond “taking pictures” to “making pictures”. Projects are designed to introduce lighting techniques, rule of thirds, leading lines, and other composition skills. Students will also learn to edit using Photoshop software to enhance and change images. The second half of this semester class will introduce students to video production skills needed to create a school newscast, commercials, and a 3-minute educational video.

OFFICE OR LIFE SKILLS TEACHER ASSISTANT (TA)

TAs will be assigned to the office or to assist the teacher in the Life Skills program or specific teachers. TAs will provide support and assistance as directed by office staff/Life Skills teacher. This semester length TA class will be in place of one semester length elective class. TA spots are limited, and placement is determined by counselors with teacher input. Indicate TA interest in the box on the front page of your course registration form.

ASB LEADERSHIP- (Waitlisted as of May 2025)

Placement in ASB Leadership is determined by ASB elections and teacher/counselor placement. ASB Leadership is a required elective for ASB officers. In this class you will work on developing leadership skills and creating a positive school culture. This is a project-based semester-long class in which students will plan and execute activities for the school community.

MUSIC ELECTIVES (FULL YEAR)

CHOIR (Grades 7 and 8)

Let your voice be heard! Choir is for 7th and 8th grade students who love to sing and perform. All students are welcome! Choir members learn to sing in three-part harmony, baritone, alto and soprano. This class will offer instruction in vocal technique, choral performance, ear training and music reading. Students will learn rehearsal techniques and concert etiquette. Concert choir takes two field trips a year, including one to an adjudicated choral festival in March. There are also four required evening concerts and occasional assembly performances. Solo opportunities may also be available to those students interested. Students unable to take first semester due to scheduling conflicts are welcome to join in second semester.

CONCERT BAND

Concert Band is for students with at least two years of experience playing a band instrument. At a typical rehearsal we do warm-ups, sight reading, technique exercises and work on concert music. This group performs in three evening school concerts, several school assemblies and takes at least 3 field trips to perform in band festivals and at our local elementary schools. In April we attend a band festival in British Columbia, Canada.

JAZZ BAND ZERO HOUR CLASS (6:30-7:25 am) - AUDITION REQUIRED

Instruction focuses on jazz concepts such as improvisation, big band swing, jazz, rock, Latin styles and funk. This is a performance-oriented group that takes field trips to regional jazz festivals, plus required evening school concerts and one Saturday festival. For information about auditions, Contact Mr. Sackman at 360- 563-3294 or nathan.sackman@sno.wednet.edu. Students must arrange their own transportation to this class.

FULL YEAR – REQUIRED COURSES

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS

This course incorporates all facets of language arts essential for high achievement in written and oral communication based on state standards. These skills include the writing process, textual analysis, research, and critical reading of short stories, novels, poetry, and drama.

ADVANCED LANGUAGE ARTS

The middle school advanced program for language arts is designed for a student who is motivated to engage in a curriculum that is accelerated and advanced. The goal for this program is to prepare students for high school Honors, Pre-AP, and beyond. (See attached guidelines for advanced courses.) The student is expected to:

• Assume greater responsibly
• Participate at a higher level of thought
• Complete complex involved projects
• Engage in independent research
• Collaborate in both small and large group activities and discussions

FULL YEAR – REQUIRED COURSES

UNITED STATES HISTORY

This social studies requirement picks up the story of our nation's history just prior to the Revolutionary War and continues through the end of the Civil War. Major units of study are: Revolutionary War, U.S. Constitution, Industrial Revolution, Westward Movement, Slavery, the Civil War or Reconstruction.

FULL YEAR – REQUIRED COURSES- MATHEMATICS

Students are placed into mathematics based on their achievement as measured by their grade in current class, teacher recommendation, STAR Test, SBA and district placement test results (when applicable). Big Ideas Math, which is aligned to the Washington State Learning Standards, is the district-approved curriculum for all middle school level students. In all math classes, students will continue to evolve as mathematicians as they learn to use the Eight Mathematical Practices as outlined in the Washington State Learning Standards.

MATH 8

Students study linear equations, graphing, geometric transformations, probability and statistics, large numbers, measurement, the Pythagorean Theorem, and solving equations. SBA preparation is continued.

ALGEBRA 1

This course introduces fundamental operation of equations and formulas, studies of ratio, proportion, variation, indirect measurements, polynomial operations, factoring and operation with radical expressions. Students will solve equations (linear, quadratic and systems) and inequalities using graphing, substitution and/or addition. The student is also introduced to principles governing system and set theory. This course provides one high school math credit upon successful completion (see note on transcript policy*).

GEOMETRY - (Prerequisite – Successful completion of Algebra 1)

This course will cover the core content as outlined by the math standards: Logical arguments and proofs, lines and angles, two-and three-dimensional figures, geometry in the coordinate plane, geometric transformations and additional key content. This course provides one high school math credit upon successful completion (see note on transcript policy).

Transcript policy for high-school-credit math courses taken during 7th and 8th grades

• Regarding high-school-credit math courses (Algebra and Geometry) taken during 7th or 8th grade:
• Grades will be posted to the students’ middle school transcript.
• Grades will be posted to the students’ high school transcript.
• When posted to the high school transcript, the grades: 
  • will accurately indicate when the class was taken 
  • will be included in the student’s high school graduation credits and GPA

FULL YEAR – REQUIRED COURSES

8TH GRADE SCIENCE

This class is part of a series of integrated science classes based on the Next Generation Science Standards. This course focuses on 3-Dimensional learning around the phenomena of “investigating life on the third rock”, with content emphasis on Earth in space, genetics, and natural & common ancestry.

Goal: Student access to and success in advanced English Language Arts courses

Interest, motivation, and perseverance indicators

Students who are successful in advanced courses:

• Demonstrate a high level of interest, academic engagement, and an innate curiosity to learn in courses of interest.
• Are highly self-motivated, take responsibility for their own learning, attend class regularly, complete quality assignments on time, and recognize that effort is important for success.
• Maintain a high standard in academic integrity.
• Successfully complete complex tasks that require extra time, thought, and perseverance.
• Examine and learn from errors, demonstrate a willingness to try different approaches, problem solve, make revisions to work throughout the learning process, seek help, and access available resources.
• Engage effectively in a range of collaborative discussions (one-on-one, in groups, and teacher led)

Academic indicators

Students who are successful in advanced English Language Arts courses:

• Has a history of curiosity around language, reading, and writing.
• Reads two or more years above grade level.
• Demonstrates advanced reading and communication skills.
• Reads and writes beyond required assignments. Has a history of creating own reading and writing projects.
• Consistently shows interest in the details of language (word origins, grammar, sentence structure, etc.)

Middle school data teams will review data (SBA, Star, teacher input, grades) and above-mentioned indicators to confirm appropriate placement. Any changes necessary will be communicated.