The purpose of these courses is to provide opportunities for improvement in student self-development through the study of specific subject areas. The content should include, but not be limited to, exploration of basic principles, concepts, processes, knowledge of subject areas to which the student is exposed, and specific content based on selected intended outcomes from existing courses.

ART 6

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to art history and the experiences necessary for understanding, appreciating, and producing two and three-dimensional works of art. The content should include, but not be limited to, art history, art evaluation, and the study of styles, artists, art forms, and cultures as they relate to the processes and production of two and three-dimensional works of art.

The main focus of this class will be on the building of self-esteem through creative dramatics. Students will be introduced to the basics of theatre and will learn the value of teamwork as they experience the production process first hand. Students will also have the opportunity to become involved with Tequesta’s Junior Thespian Troupe whose members participate in both a District and a State Festival.

The purpose of this course is to: (a) improve related fitness through participation in games/sports, gymnastics, dance, individual and developmental activities, and (b) evaluate physical activities in terms of fitness values. The content should include, but not be limited to, safety practices, assessment of health related fitness, skill related components of physical activities in terms of fitness value, principles of exercise and training, psychological values of physical fitness, (e.g. positive self-image, interrelationships among exercises, nutrition, and rest), and fitness activities.

The purpose of this course is to equip students with learning strategies, critical-thinking skills, and problem-solving skills that will enhance their learning experiences in school and increase the likelihood of higher-level performance in academic and non-academic endeavors. The content should include, but not be limited to, goal setting, learning styles, time management, listening, study habits, text formats, summarizing, note-taking, split page and graphic organizers, memory techniques, locational skills, organizing notebook, following directions and practicing responsibility.

The beginning band is designed for those students with limited or no musical background. Students will be oriented with all band instruments offered, prior to selection of an instrument. Students will be instructed on the proper fundamentals and skills necessary to ensure a positive learning experience. Students will develop a basic understanding of music notation and perform four major scales and one octave of their chromatic scale. A minimum of 100 minutes practice per week (twenty minutes per day) will be required. Optional activities: Solo Ensemble Festival, Cougar Marching Band, Jazz Band.

The purpose of this course is to provide students with opportunities to develop skills in vocal production, to participate in a musical ensemble, and to develop musicianship skills. The content should include, but not be limited to, vocal performance techniques and understanding of music fundamentals.

EXPLORATORY WHEEL, 7th GRADE

The 7th grade Wheel is MANDATORY for ALL students in order to fulfill the new Florida Career Education Mandate

The purpose of these courses is to provide opportunities for improvement in student self-development through the study of specific subject areas. The content should include, but not be limited to, exploration of basic principles, concepts, processes, knowledge of subject areas to which the student is exposed, and specific content based on selected intended outcomes from existing courses.

The purpose of this course is to: (a) develop competence and understanding of strategies in games/sports, gymnastics, dance, and individual and developmental activities, (b) develop critical thinking skills, (c) develop group leadership and group membership skills, (d) develop competitive and cooperative skills, and (e) improve and/or maintain health-related fitness. The content should include, but not be limited to, safety practices, assessment of health-related fitness, knowledge and application of offensive and defensive strategies in activities which include throwing and catching, body management, striking with the body, and striking with objects, development and application of competitive and cooperative skills, and fitness activities. The advanced course is for the serious athlete.

The purpose of this course is to provide opportunities for students to understand the general functions and capabilities of computer systems and their impact on society. It also provides opportunities for the beginning study of computer applications. The content should include, but not be limited to, the operation and function of computers, the ethical use of computers in society, basic principles, concepts, processes in computer applications through hands-on experiences, and the Computer Literacy Minimum Student Performance Standards and Skills.

RESEARCH AND COMMUNICATIONS SKILLS 7, USE THE NEWS

The purpose of this course is to develop critical thinking skills through the use of the newspaper, using Bloom’s Taxonomy for the Cognitive Domain as the framework for newspaper study. The learning process in this course will focus on the reading, writing, and thinking connection. The newspaper is a critical tool and vital component for this connection and the advancement of critical thinking skills.

The purpose of this course is to assist students in becoming familiar with home economics content, and how it impacts on personal development. The content should include, but not be limited to, the uniqueness of self and families, using consumer information, caring for children, child development stages, parenting skills, making decisions regarding food and nutrition, developing and understanding of sewing tools and terms, constructing a sewing project, and preparing and serving attractive food by using proper cooking methods and equipment.

ELECTIVES

ART, INTERMEDIATE,7 

(Portfolio submission required) (Paired with Drama/18 weeks) 

The purpose of this course is to provide experiences necessary to understand, appreciate, and produce two and three-dimensional art. The content should include, but not be limited to, perception of and response to basic design concepts of artwork, skill development in two and three-dimensional forms, including competent use of tools and materials, recognition of various styles and forms of art, use of appropriate art vocabulary in art production, and justification of aesthetic judgments.

ART, ADVANCED 8 (Instructor’s approval needed)

The purpose of this course is to provide experiences necessary for understanding, appreciating, and producing two and three-dimensional works of art. The content should include, but not be limited to, perception of and response to basic design concepts of artwork, the value of two and three-dimensional art as an important realm of human experience, production of two and three-dimensional art using various materials and techniques, two and three-dimensional works of art in various cultures, and criteria for making and judging aesthetic merit of two and three-dimensional art.

BAND, INTERMEDIATE 7, 8 (Director’s approval needed)

The intermediate band is intended for students who have prior experience with a band instrument. This band will perform medium difficult music at the grade I and II level, and will prove to be challenging to the students involved. Emphasis will be on developing the skills and fundamentals gained from the beginning band level. Students will perform from memory seven major scales and the practical range of their chromatic scale. Selected students must attend all rehearsals, concerts, and perfect all assigned music. A minimum of 150 minutes of practice per week (30 minutes per day) will be required. Optional activities: All County Band Audition, Solo and Ensemble Festival, Cougar Marching Band, Jazz Band.

BAND, ADVANCED 7, 8 (Director’s approval needed)

This is our highest level band class. The advanced band will perform medium to difficult music at the grade II and III level, and should be extremely challenging to all members. Emphasis will be on perfecting musical skills and performance fundamentals. Students will perform from memory seven major scales and the full range of their chromatic scale. Selected students must attend all scheduled rehearsals, concerts, and perfect all music assigned. A minimum of 200 minutes practice per week (40 minutes per day) will be required. Optional activities: All County Band, All County Jazz Band, Area Honors Band, All-State Auditions, Solo and Ensemble Festival, Cougar Marching Band.

BROADCASTING 8 (Media Specialist’s approval needed)

Students in broadcasting are responsible for preparing and delivering the morning school news. Students will learn all aspects of broadcast journalism from camera technician to anchorperson. Interested in learning about presentation techniques, speech presentations, Power Point, and camera techniques.

CHOIR, 7, 8

The purpose of this course is to provide instruction in the development of vocal production techniques and group singing. The content should include, but not be limited to, skills in vocal tone production, choral performance techniques, musical literacy, and music appreciation.

CHORUS, ADVANCED 7, 8 (Director’s approval needed)

The purpose of this course is to provide experiences in fundamental vocal production techniques and part singing. The content should include, but not be limited to, fundamental skills in tone production, part singing, choral performance techniques, musical literacy, and music appreciation.

DRAMA, INTERMEDIATE 7 * Prerequisite: Beginning Drama or Teacher Approval (18 wks. - paired with Intermediate Art)

Students enrolling in Intermediate Drama will continue to build on the foundations laid out in Beginning Drama. The history of theatre will be introduced, as well as various techniques in character and scene study. Students will once again be a part of the production process as they work together on a full-scale production. Continued involvement with Junior Thespians is recommended.

DRAMA, ADVANCED 8 (Full year course) *Prerequisite: Beginning or Intermediate Drama and Audition Required

This course is designed for the serious Drama student. Students at this level are required to participate in the activities associated with the Junior Thespian Society, and are also expected to produce two full scale productions in their course of study. Additionally, these young actors and actresses will be expected to work independently on both small group and individual scenes, developing characters and consistently raising the bar on their own performances. A serious approach to the craft is expected from the students in Advanced Drama.

MEDIA AIDE 8

This course will introduce students to the applications found within a media center. Students will learn how to use the Dewey Decimal System, card catalog, research techniques, non-print materials, print materials, and computer applications in order to assist other students and teachers. Students will also learn the management of books by preparing, repairing, and shelving materials. Office skills and interpersonal relationships will develop for personal achievement and job success.

MUSICAL THEATER 7, 8 (Full year course)

Prerequisite: All students interested in Musical Theatre must complete an audition that includes singing, dancing, and acting. Previous experience in Chorus or Drama is helpful, but not required.

This course is designed for the student whose interest in performing arts is multifaceted, including a flair for both singing and acting. Students in this class will be expected to produce two full scale musical productions in their course of study, as well as to participate in the activities associated with the Junior Thespian Society. Additionally, these young performers will be expected to work independently on both small group and individual pieces, developing believable characters, and consistently raising the bar on their own performances. A serious approach to the craft is expected from the Musical Theatre students.

PEER COUNSELING I 7, 8 (Prerequisite: minimum 3.0 GPA)

Through classroom instruction, role-playing and skill building activities, peer counselors are trained to help their fellow students. The content should include, but not be limited to, peers as helpers, communication skills, peer tutoring, conflict mediation training, interpersonal skills and intercultural relationships. Along with the daily peer activities, students will participate in several field trips doing community projects enhancing their overall learning experience. (i.e. painting an elderly couple’s house, feeding the homeless, reverse trick or treating, hospital visits and more).

PEER COUNSELING II 8 (Instructor’s approval needed)

(Prerequisite: minimum 3.0 GPA) In addition to working with students individually and in groups, the second year Peer Counselors provide a variety of other services. The purpose of this course is to provide students with an understanding of skills for managing responsible behavior. The Peer Counseling II content includes, but is not limited to, peer tutoring, peer counseling, conflict mediation, classroom presentations and intercultural relationships. Along with the daily peer activities, students will participate in several field trips doing community projects enhancing their overall learning experience. (i.e. painting an elderly couple’s house, feeding the homeless, reverse trick or treating, hospital visits, and more).

EXPLORATORY WHEEL 8TH GRADE:

EXPLORATION OF TECHNOLOGY 8 (18 weeks) (Paired with Physical Education)

This class has been designed to give students the opportunity to be exposed to many of the technologies and techniques in use today. The activities the student will have the opportunity to complete include: Digital Photography, Space and Rocketry, Lasers, 3D Architecture, Graphics and Animation, Audio Broadcasting, Multimedia Production, Digital Sound, Vinyl Sign Making, Digital Video Production, Computer Aided Design, Aerodynamic CO2 Dragster, Computer Aided Publishing, Electronic Communications, Structural Bridge Building, CNC Embroidery, HTML Web Page Design, Fiber Optics and Robotics.. Student activities are completed through a self-directed set of instructions and daily response questions.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 8 (18 weeks) (Paired with Technology)

The purpose of this course is to: (a) develop competence and understanding of strategies in games/sports, gymnastics, dance, and individual and developmental activities, (b) develop critical thinking skills, (c) develop group leadership and group membership skills, (d) develop competitive and cooperative skills, and (e) improve and/or maintain health-related fitness. The content should include, but not be limited to, safety practices, assessment of health-related fitness, knowledge and application of offensive and defensive strategies in activities which include throwing and catching, body management, striking with the body, and striking with objects, development and application of competitive and cooperative skills, and fitness activities. The advanced course is for the serious athlete.

SPANISH FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS I 7, 8 (Prerequisite: Minimum 3.25 GPA)

The purpose of this course is to provide a review of fundamental grammar and culture for students who speak Spanish as a native language, focusing on oral and written communication free from English interference. The content should include, but not be limited to, the reinforcement of the student’s ability to communicate ideas and feelings, both orally and in writing, and the development of comprehension skills through the study of reading selections. The different cultures of Spanish speaking countries will be studied. This course is recommended for students who either speak Spanish as a home language or who function at a similar level of proficiency in Spanish.

COMPUTERS, ADVANCED 8 (18 weeks paired with Home Ec. 8)

The purpose of this course is to provide opportunities for students to understand the general functions and capabilities of computer systems. It also provides opportunities for the intermediate study of computer applications. Students will create multimedia stacks, develop web pages and use the internet. The content should include, but not be limited to, the operation and function of computers, the ethical use of computers in society, basic principles, concepts, processes in computer applications through hands-on experiences, and the Computer Literacy Minimum Student Performance Standards and Skills.

HOME ECONOMICS 8 (18 weeks paired with Computers Advanced)

The major units covered are the cooking unit, which includes baking, making full course meals, table setting, manners, planning menus, cooking tips, cake decorating, and nutrition. Next, is the sewing unit, in which students will learn how to thread and repair a sewing machine, sew on a button, gather, make a pillow, and construct an apron. The last unit is life skills. Students will learn about relationships, decision making techniques, motivation, stress management, party planning, and room decorating techniques.

LAW STUDIES/SPEECH & DEBATE 8

The American legal system is the foundation of American Society. In order to function effectively, students examine those laws which have an impact on citizen’s lives. An introduction to fundamental civil and criminal justice procedures is provided. The content should include, but not be limited to, the need for law, civil and criminal laws, causes and effects of crime, consumer and family law, comparison of adult and juvenile justice systems, role of citizens, and career opportunities in the legal system. Speech & Debate is designed to develop public speaking skills, including researching, writing, and delivering speeches. As students become more proficient, they will engage in debate on topical issues.

SPANISH FOR SPANISH SPEAKERS II 8

(Placement by Diagnostic Exam or Successful Completion of Spanish for Spanish Speakers I)

The purpose of this course is to continue the development of oral and written communication, and cultural study. The content should include, but not be limited to, the development of oral communication skills, instructions, directions, explanations, messages, composing originally in Spanish. Also included, is the development of written communication skills including practice in describing story characters, real persons, animals, natural phenomena, summarizing facts and ideas, and the study of culture.

SPANISH I 7, 8 (Prerequisite: Minimum 3.25 GPA)

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the Spanish language and Spanish culture and to develop communicative skills and cross-cultural understanding. The emphasis is on oral communication and everyday expressions. The content should include, but not be limited to, beginning skills in listening and speaking, introduction to reading, writing, fundamentals, grammar, and fundamentals of culture.

SPANISH II 8 (Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish I)

The purpose of this course is to reinforce and enhance previously acquired basic skills in Spanish. The content should include, but not be limited to, further development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills, grammatical concepts, and a broader understanding of Spanish culture.

STUDENT AIDE 8 (Instructor’s Approval Needed)

The purpose of this course is to provide instruction, practical application of desirable personal characteristics and traits, in order to develop the successful interpersonal relationships necessary for personal achievement and job success. Students will work with administrators, counselors, and teachers in activities such as delivering messages, filing, sorting, counting materials, meeting new people in the community and taking them on a tour of our school, grading papers, setting up labs, and helping other students