7th Grade Year-Long Elective Options
BEGINNING BAND (#FAR110)
This course introduces students to reading music and playing a band instrument, no prior musical experience necessary. Basic instrument choices include Flute, Clarinet, Alto Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, and Percussion (beginners will need both bells and snare drum). Please note that Piano, Ukulele, violin, and guitar are not part of the band program. Other instrument options may be available with teacher permission. The band will perform in several concerts throughout the year, and participation in these public performances is a course requirement. Enrollment in this class is a year-long commitment. Families are responsible for providing or renting an instrument, as well as purchasing cleaning supplies and the band book. A limited number of loaner instruments are available. Information regarding instrument rental meetings will be provided later.
INTERMEDIATE BAND (#FAR210) - Prerequisite: Beginning Band or Beginning Mariachi
Students who participated in band last year are eligible for Intermediate Band. Instrument choices include Flute, Clarinet, Saxophone, Trumpet, Trombone, and Percussion (snare and bells). With instructor approval, other instruments may be considered. The band performs multiple concerts throughout the year, and participation in these public performances is a graded requirement. Students need their own instruments, though a limited selection may be available from the school.
BEGINNING MARIACHI BAND (#FAR220)
Dive into the world of music and discover your musical voice. This course is your starting point to learn a new instrument and become part of a dynamic ensemble. You'll explore and develop essential playing techniques, while working collaboratively with other musicians to create beautiful music. Whether you're a complete beginner or have some prior experience, this course is designed to inspire your creativity and build your confidence.
INTERMEDIATE MARIACHI (#FAR230) - Prerequisite: Beginning Band or Beginning Mariachi
Vamos Mariachi! Intermediate Mariachi courses build on beginner skills, focusing on developing advanced instrumental technique (bowing, strumming, tonguing), deeper understanding of mariachi rhythms, harmony, and musical form, interpreting diverse mariachi styles (traditional to contemporary), refining music reading/notation, and increasing ensemble performance opportunities, including vocal parts and solo work, alongside music history and cultural context.
CHOIR (#FAR301)
This class provides the foundations for vocal production and musicianship. Students will learn healthy vocal technique through the development of head and chest registers and an emphasis on the changing voice. Students will develop a knowledge of music theory fundamentals and the application to choral repertoire. Skills to develop include: knowledge of solfege; score tracking; navigating the piano; and reading notation. Students are expected to have high standards of rehearsal/performance etiquette, study a diverse range of choral repertoire, and attend all school concerts/performances.
7th Grade Semester-Long Elective Options
DRAMA (#FAR200)
Ready to step into the spotlight or learn more about what happens behind the scenes? This introductory drama class is designed to unleash your inner performer or techie! Through engaging projects, activities, design work, scene work, and improvisation, we'll explore what it takes to produce a stage show and to work as a cast or crew member. We'll learn about the importance of stage fundamentals and character and story development for both actors and techies - the collaborative spirit of theatre. The grand finale? The class will bring a story to life on a stage for a live, unforgettable, culminating performance!
ART, LANGUAGE, and CULTURE* (#FAR120)
Students will travel to Mexico, South America, and more without leaving the classroom! Exploring art and artists across the globe, students will create projects inspired by the artists and heritage of various countries. Instruction given in Spanish.
INTRO TO GRAPHIC ARTS (#TED200)
Want to learn the secrets behind cool logos, posters, and social media posts? This intro to graphic design is for you! You'll get hands-on experience with Adobe tools, learning how to use design elements to create awesome projects. By the end of the course, you'll have a collection of your own designs, product to take home, and a digital portfolio to showcase your talents.
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS IN MANUFACTURING (#TED300)
Get ready to bring your ideas to life! In this hands-on class, you'll learn how to use computers to design and create amazing projects using cutting-edge manufacturing technology. You'll learn the software and skills to operate 3D printers, laser engravers, CNC routers, and heat presses. then take home your finished products to share with friends and family.
CODING WITH MINECRAFT (#TED400)
Unleash your inner coder with Minecraft! Using Microsoft MakeCode and Minecraft Education, you'll learn core coding concepts and build your own exciting games, developing crucial skills as you design, test, and play, both individually and collaboratively in groups, to produce your creations.
MULTIMEDIA INTRODUCTION (#TED500)
Ignite your creativity and learn the fundamentals of filmmaking and media design. Through hands-on projects, you'll create, produce, and share short films and advertisements using techniques like stop motion and green screen, gaining valuable knowledge as part of a production team. This course empowers you to tell your stories visually and develop essential digital storytelling skills.
AGXPLORE (#TED600)
Explore the daily impact of agriculture as AgXplore introduces students to the plants, resources, energy, and animals we use and consume due to agricultural technologies. Every lesson includes unique and engaging hands-on activities and projects encouraging student exploration of the agricultural value chain from industry to consumer. In addition, the curriculum includes fresh and personalized assessment tools with laboratories, games, and questioning exercises.
LEADERSHIP (#MSC100)
Discover your potential! Learn key skills like communication, teamwork, and problem-solving through engaging activities. Explore different leadership styles, identify your strengths, and engage of the important job of making a positive impact in your school and community.
INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH (#FLA100)
This course offers a low-pressure exposure to beginning level Spanish language and culture, focusing on a foundation of listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Lessons revolve around interactive methods including songs, games, and authentic, thematic vocabulary. Class will also explore different traditions in Spanish-speaking countries such as Day of the Dead.
*Dual Language Pathway