Eighth Grade Extension & Elective Courses
English Language Arts Extension Courses
Students will be placed in this course based on prerequisites and demonstrated needs.
The school reserves the right to cancel any course if there is insufficient enrollment or if certified staff is unavailable to teach the course.
There may be additional material costs associated with these courses for which the student will be responsible.
AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination)
Course No. OTAV8
Semesters 2
Prerequisite: Application and Instructor Approval
AVID is a structured college-readiness course designed to support students' development of inquiry, critical reading, and analytical writing skills. Each week, students in the AVID elective class engage in reading and writing curriculum, tutor-facilitated study groups, collaborative activities and academic success skills. The tools used in this course will help students to be more successful readers, writers, and thinkers in the more rigorous courses in which they will also be expected to enroll (i.e. Advanced and accelerated middle school offerings, Advanced, AP or Dual high school offerings). The AVID elective class reviews and then builds upon skills learned in prior years of AVID. Potential students will need to apply and interview before being accepted into the elective.
Study Skills
Course No. OTSS
Semesters: 2
Prerequisite: ARD/IEP Committee determination required.
This course is designed to help students master the basic skills necessary to become competent learners. The myriad number of topics will include all of the basic study skills, critical thinking with Bloom’s Taxonomy, learning styles, communication, goal setting and problem solving principles. Emphasis is placed on academic skills, note taking, cursive writing, teamwork and leadership fundamentals. ARD/IEP Committee determination required.
GT Independent Study (CMS, CTMS only)
Course No. GTIS8
Semesters: 2
Prerequisite: GT Identification
In this open-ended course offering, students will be allowed to design a project or course of learning according to their interests. The required components of this course will be research, reading, and writing. The work will culminate with a presentation of their work to an audience of peers, teachers, and middle school administrators.
English Learners Language Arts (ELLA)
Course No. ELLA3
Semesters: 2
Prerequisite: Participate in ESL program; Beginner or Intermediate in TELPAS or LAS Links; 3 or less years in US Schools
In this course, students new to the English language will have the opportunity to build vocabulary and strengthen their English speaking, reading, and writing abilities. The design of this course will be to support ELL students in both social/conversational language acquisition and development of English skills to support content learning in other middle school coursework.
Considerations: This course is designed to support students who are newly acquiring the English language and will follow the newly adopted ELLA TEKS.
Essentials of Reading and Creative Writing - Modified
Course No. LA8ERW
Prerequisite: ARD/IEP Committee determination required.
This is a *modified English Language Arts (ELA) extension course that must be recommended by an ARD committee prior to a student’s enrollment in the course. The course is intended for students in need of a self-contained extension course who are not able to progress in a general ELA extension course without significant modifications to the TEKS. The course will provide students with opportunities to read and experience text linked to the grade level TEKS and to develop writing skills at their ability level based on the grade level styles of written work. Technology is embedded throughout the course along with access to a wide variety of literature genres. ARD/IEP Committee determination required
Literacy Achievement
Course No. LITACH
Semesters: 1
Prerequisite: Documented weakness in reading (i.e. STAAR failure, etc…)
This course is designed to strengthen students’ reading and writing skills to ensure grade-level proficiency with academic tasks and expectations. Students enrolling in this course will have demonstrated a need for intervention on STAAR or other assessment or coursework. Through a wide variety of targeted experiences in reading and writing with authentic texts, students will build skills that will transfer to success on assessments.
Considerations: District data will be used to determine students in need of support and accelerated reading/writing intervention as per Senate Bill 1153. Enrollment in this course will supersede involvement in other electives such as AVID.
STEM Cause and Effect Research (GMS only)
Course No. OTSCER
Semesters: 2
Students will explore, discover, and tap into their understanding of the world around them through the engineering design process. The course will center around ELA curriculum objectives in conjunction with the engineering design process to drive research-based and technical writing. In addition, students will develop skills that are necessary to navigate academic texts and will explore STEM careers. This course will conclude with a culminating project applying learned concepts.
General Electives
Integrated Physics and Chemistry Advanced
Course No. SCIQA/B
Semesters: 2
Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Concurrent with 7th grade Science Accelerated or 8th grade Science
In IPC students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigation, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. This course integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry in the following topics: force, motion, energy and matter. Students who choose this course must take it before earning credit in Chemistry or Physics. This course is currently being piloted at CTMS only at the middle school level.
Math Investigations III
Course No. MAINV3
Semesters: 2
Prerequisite: Documented need in mathematics
This course is recommended for students in Grade 6, 7 or 8.
This course is designed to strengthen students’ mathematics skills to ensure grade-level proficiency with academic tasks and expectations. Students enrolling in this course will have demonstrated a need for intervention on STAAR or other assessment or coursework. Through a wide variety of targeted experiences in mathematics, students will build skills that will transfer to success on assessments.
Considerations: This course is designed to support and accelerate students who have demonstrated needs in mathematics.
Art I
Course No. FAA78
Art is designed for students with strong interests in exploring many art disciplines and media. Each area of study focuses on critical thinking and problem solving as students develop their artistic skills. There is an emphasis on art history, multi-cultural events, and customs through varied art projects. Areas of study are drawing, painting, sculpture, printmaking, fibers, papermaking, paper mache, and computer technology. There may be additional material costs associated with this course for which the student will be responsible.
Art II
Course No. FAA2
This is an intermediate level art course in various media and methods in two-dimensional and three-dimensional art. It includes drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, fibers, and art history as applied to specific projects. There may be additional material costs associated with this course for which the student will be responsible.
Art III
Course No. FAA3
Semesters: 2
This course is a study of various art media and methods. It includes drawing, printing, painting, sculpture, ceramics, fibers, and graphic design. It also includes art history, the cultural influence of art, and career opportunities in art. There may be additional material costs associated with this course for which the student will be responsible.
Advanced Art
Course No. FAAQ78
Semesters: 2
Prerequisite: Teacher Approval required
This course is recommended for students who plan to pursue advanced art classes in high school. The students are required to keep a portfolio of work which demonstrates their talents and levels of art skills. There may be additional material costs associated with this course for which the student will be responsible.
ATHLETICS:
Semesters: 2
BOYS: Football, basketball, track, cross country, tennis
Course No. PAAB8
GIRLS: Volleyball, basketball, track, cross country, tennis
Course No. PAAG8
Athletics is open to 8th grade students interested in an extracurricular activity through competitive sports. Basic fundamentals of each sport are taught. Students are expected to participate in at least one sport per semester. Tryouts are held for each sport when necessary. Participants MUST HAVE a physical examination, insurance, and parent permission. Practice will be held before or after school. The game schedule for next year has not been determined. Those athletes whose sport is not in season still participate in an off-season conditioning program. For more information refer to the middle school athletic requirements linked here.
Physical Education / Health
Course No. PAPE78
Semesters: 2
Emphasis on continued social development through physical activity is the focus of this PE program. Believing every student can become physically fit, fitness exercises are included daily. Students acquire physical skills through practice and apply these skills in a variety of sports including volleyball, basketball, badminton and others. Technology is used to measure and monitor improvement in fitness. Students are required to suit out in proper uniform. In health education an emphasis is placed on acquiring knowledge and skills regarding healthy behaviors, understanding puberty, and the reproductive process. Abstinence-based programs, such as Aim for Success, are major components in providing this health information. Play It Safe, a TEKS-based program, addresses a variety of contemporary topics such as sexual harassment, sexual abuse, and other pertinent issues in an age-appropriate manner. Parent previews will precede presentation of all materials related to human sexuality.
BAND:
Students are placed in ability based bands following an audition process. Levels include: Concert Band, Symphonic Band, and Honors Band. Many parents obtain instruments through a rental program, designated instruments are available through the school for a fee of $50 per semester.
Symphonic Band
Course No. FABS
Semesters: 2
This is an intermediate level band for 7th and 8th grade students. Proficiency in the basic fundamentals (tone, rhythm, fingering, etc.) is stressed. Concert Band performances occur in fall and spring.
Honor Band
Course No. FABH
Semesters: 2
This is an advanced band for 7th and 8th grade students. These students are challenged with more difficult musical literature and required sight-reading skills. Symphonic Band participates in many activities throughout the year including various concerts, solo & ensemble contests, auditions, and UIL competition at the director’s discretion.
CHORAL PROGRAM
Students are placed following an audition process that emphasizes music sight reading capability. Required materials/fees for choirs vary per campus to cover the needed performance uniform.
Choir - Select Tenor-Bass
Course No. FACTB2
Prerequisite: Audition & Teacher Approval
This choir is open to 7th and 8th grade students and requires an audition or director approval. The program strives to allow students to gain musical knowledge in a supportive and creative environment. Emphasis is placed on proper singing techniques, music reading and independent sight reading skill development and performance etiquette. Students perform various types of choral literature and study progressive sight reading materials. These students participate in curriculum-based school-sponsored concerts on a regular basis and have the opportunity for field trips, UIL Choir competitions, and other extra activities. Rehearsals may be required outside of class time prior to some performances
Choir- Select Treble
Course No. FACT2
Prerequisite: Audition & Teacher Approval
This choir is open to 7th and 8th grade students and requires an audition or director approval. The program strives to allow students to gain musical knowledge in a supportive and creative environment. Emphasis is placed on proper singing techniques, music reading and independent sight reading skill development and performance etiquette. Students perform various types of choral literature and study progressive sight reading materials. These students participate in curriculum-based school-sponsored concerts on a regular basis and have the opportunity for field trips, UIL Choir competitions, and other extra activities. Rehearsals may be required outside of class time prior to some performances.
Choir - Advanced Treble
Course No. FACTA
Prerequisite: Audition & Teacher Approval
This choir is open to 7th and 8th grade students by audition only. The program strives to allow students to gain musical knowledge in a supportive and creative environment. This choir stresses the development of excellent vocal quality and technique, advanced independent sight reading ability, and the development of performance excellence. Students perform various types of advanced choral literature and study an intensive sight reading program. These students participate in curriculum-based school-sponsored concerts on a regular basis and have the opportunity for field trips, UIL Choir competitions, and other extra activities. Rehearsals may be required outside of class time prior to some performances and contests.
Choir - Chamber Mixed
Course No. FACC
Prerequisite: Audition & Teacher Approval
This choir is open to 7th and 8th grade students by audition only. This choir stresses the development of excellent vocal quality and technique, advanced independent sight reading ability, and the development of performance excellence, emphasizing individual performance techniques. These students participate in curriculum-based, school-sponsored concerts on a regular basis and have the opportunity for field trips, UIL Choir competitions, and other extra activities. Rehearsals may be required outside of class time prior to some performances and contests.
THEATRE ARTS:
Theatre I
Course No. FAT78
Theatre I at the 8th grade level is designed to introduce the student to the many performing and technical aspects of theatre. Students will learn basic acting techniques (stage movement, developing voice, memorizing lines, etc.), improvisation, mime techniques, character development, basic scene study (group and individual monologues), script analysis and performance critiquing. In small ensembles, duets and individually, students will prepare and perform scenes in class demonstrating these skills.
Theatre II
Course No. FAT2
Prerequisite: Theatre I
Theatre II at the 8th grade level builds upon the skills learned in Theatre I. Students will continue to strengthen their acting skills in a variety of theatrical experiences, including reading and writing plays, as well as memorized and improvisational performance.
Theatre III
Course No. FAT3
Prerequisite: Theatre I & Theatre II
Theatre III at the 8th grade level builds upon the skills learned in Theatre I and Theatre II. Students will continue to strengthen their acting skills in a variety of theatrical experiences
Theatre Playbill
Course No. FATP
Prerequisite: Audition & Teacher Approval
This year long course gives students the opportunity to prepare and rehearse for the type of events used in competitive speech/theatre tournaments. Participation in tournament competition or a class program is required. Students must be able to work independently in the classroom. Students will also explore aspects of theatre production as they prepare for performances. Students will experience the entire process of mounting a theatrical production both on and offstage. This class is designed especially for those students seriously interested in pursuing acting and production in high school.
Other Electives
PALS
Course No. PALS
Semesters: 1-2
Prerequisite: Application and teacher approval required
PALS is a peer assistance, leadership, and service course for selected eighth grade students. These students are trained for six weeks in interpersonal relations, self-awareness, group dynamics, conflict resolution, and mediation. Upon completion of this training, students work with peers and elementary students as positive role models dealing with today’s issues.
Principles of Human Services
Course No. CTPRHA/B
Semesters: 2; Credit: 1 HS Credit
Principles of Human Services is a laboratory course that will enable students to investigate careers in the Human Services Career Cluster, including counseling and mental health, early childhood development, family and community, personal care, and consumer services. Each student is expected to complete the knowledge and skills essential for success in high-skill, high-wage, or high-demand human services careers.
Grade points are not awarded nor entered into the high school GPA for completion of this course in middle school.
Reading I M
Course No. LA1RA/B
Semesters: 2; 1 HS Credit
Prerequisite: ARD/IEP Committee determination required.
Reading is an elective designed for the student interested in improving reading skills. The instructional emphasis targets individual improvement in reading comprehension, vocabulary, critical thinking, reading rate, and study skills. Skills are practiced through the use of relevant materials and computer software. This course is designed to provide instruction of the prerequisite skills linked to grade level Reading TEKS. ARD/IEP Committee determination required. Each semester is graded independently. Upon successful completion of each semester, one-half Reading I high school credit will be awarded. Grade points are not awarded nor entered into the high school GPA for completion of this course in 8th grade.
Yearbook
Course No. YRBOOK
Semesters: 2
Prerequisite: Teacher Approval – Spring Application
The primary objective of this course is to produce the school yearbook. Students should exhibit a high degree of responsibility and maturity. Occasionally, students will be required to attend and cover after school events. Meeting deadlines is a top priority for students in this class. A strong background in English and/or Art will be helpful. Basic journalistic and printing terms, layout design, and copy preparation are required.
Touch Systems Data Entry
Course No. CTTS
Semesters: 1
Credits: .5 HS Credit
In Touch System Data Entry, students apply technical skills to address business applications of emerging technologies. Students enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and reasoning skills and apply them to the business environment. Students will need to apply touch system data entry for production of business documents.
This course is a prerequisite for Business Information Management. Upon successful completion of this course, one-half high school elective credit will be awarded. Grade points are not awarded nor entered into the high school GPA for completion of this course in middle school.
Fundamentals of Computer Science & Coding
Course No. CTFCSA/B
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1 HS Credit
Prerequisite: None
Fundamentals of Computer Science is an introductory coding course that empowers students to create authentic products and engage with computer science as a medium for creativity, communication, collaboration, and problem solving. Students will foster their creativity and innovation through opportunities to design, implement, and present solutions to real-world problems.
Upon successful completion of this course, one high school elective credit will be awarded. Grade points are not awarded nor entered into the high school GPA for completion of this course in middle school
Principles of Arts, Audio Video Technology, and Communications
Course No. CTPAVA/B
Semesters: 2
Credits: 1 HS Credit
Prerequisite: None
Grade Level: 8
Careers in the Arts, Audio/Video Technology, and Communications Career Cluster require a creative aptitude, a strong It background in computer and technology applications, a strong academic foundation, and a proficiency in oral and written communication. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.
Independent Study in Evolving/Emerging Technologies - eSports (all middle schools)
Course No. CTEETA/B
Prerequisite: None
Semesters: 2: 1 HS Credit
Credits: 1
Students will have multiple experiences managing and running high school eSports events both live and recorded. These practical experiences and leadership opportunities will be based on a structured development of students as responsible and professional digital citizens. Using the standards established by ISTE and resources from schools and organizations regarding Global Professional Skills (GPS), this course will prepare students to become proficient in the core skills, sometimes called soft skills, that will help them successfully navigate working with and leading teams to solve complicated problems, sometimes with creative solutions.
Principles of Hospitality and Tourism
Course No. CTPHT
Semesters: 2; Credits: 1 for HS Credit
Prerequisite: None
Principles of Hospitality and Tourism introduces students to an industry that encompasses lodging, travel and tourism, recreation, amusements, attractions, and food/beverage operations. Students learn knowledge and skills focusing on communication, time management, and customer service that meet industry standards. Students will explore the history of the hospitality and tourism industry and examine the characteristics needed for success in that industry.
College and Career Readiness
Course No. CCR
Semesters: 1
This course is recommended for students in Grades 8.
The career development process is unique to every person and evolves throughout one's life. Students will use decision-making and problem-solving skills for college and career planning. Students will explore valid, reliable educational and career information to learn more about themselves and their interests and abilities. Students integrate skills from academic subjects, information technology, and interpersonal communication to make informed decisions. This course is designed to guide students through the process of investigation and in the development of a college and career readiness achievement plan. Students will use interest inventory software or other tools available to explore college and career areas of personal interest. Students will use this information to explore educational requirements for various colleges and a variety of chosen career paths.
Principles of Business, Marketing & Finance
Course No. CTPBMA/B
Semesters: 2; Credits: 1 HS Credit
Prerequisite: None
Grade Level: 8
In Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance, students gain knowledge and skills in economies and private enterprise systems, the impact of global business, the marketing of goods and services, advertising, and product pricing. Students analyze the sales process and financial management principles. This course allows students to reinforce, apply, and transfer academic knowledge and skills to a variety of interesting and relevant activities, problems, and settings in business, marketing, and finance.
Library Aide
Course No. OTLA
Semesters: 1-2
Prerequisite: Application and Librarian Approval Required
Students learn such skills as checking books in and out, assisting students in locating books and research materials, and shelving returned books properly. To qualify to be a library aide, the student must be passing all subjects, have satisfactory conduct in all classes, and meet other screening criteria.
Principles of Applied Engineering
(Enrollment Based)
Course No. CTPAPA/B
Semesters: 2; Credits: 1 HS Credit
Prerequisite: None
Principles of Applied Engineering provides an overview of the various fields of science, technology, engineering, and mathematics and their interrelationships. Students will develop engineering communication skills, which include computer graphics, modeling, and presentations, by using a variety of computer hardware and software applications to complete assignments and projects. Upon completing this course, students will have an understanding of the various fields of engineering and will be able to make informed career decisions. Further, students will have worked on a design team to develop a product or system. Students will use multiple software applications to prepare and present course assignments.
Fulfills Technical Credit required to graduate from high school. Grade points are not awarded nor entered into the high school GPA for completion of this course in middle school.
Teacher/ Office Aide
Teacher Aide Course No. OTTA
Office Aide Course No. OTOA
Semesters: 1-2
Prerequisite: Application and Administrator Approval Required
Students collect attendance cards, take messages, assemble packets, assist the teacher/counselor/secretary, file cards, and perform other related duties. To qualify to be an aide, the student must be passing all subjects, have satisfactory conduct in all classes, and meet other screening criteria.