Scroll Below for Echoices Application Instructions

ENGINEERING ELECTIVES

Intro. to Robotics w/ Mr. Valdez and Design & Modeling w/ Mr. Samayoa (no prerequisite)

It is a prerequisite for Advanced Robotics Team or Advanced RC Racing Team.  

The objective of this class is to introduce students to the many branches of engineering and to get an understanding of what they are:  Civil, Mechanical, Electrical, and Chemical Engineering.  Next, students will learn some basic techniques and principles on how Engineers take their ideas and turn them into reality (Design Process).  Finally, students will dive deep into building robots using VEX ROBOTICS parts and will be introduced to block coding using VR.VEX.  This is a 1 semester class, the next semester they will be put into Design and Modeling with Mr. Samayoa. (See description below)

The Design & Modeling (Intro to engineering) class provides an engineering curriculum for students that challenges, inspires, and offers variety of opportunities to create. Students will take part in various STEAM activities, challenges and projects. Most importantly they will learn to think like an engineer. Students will  apply the design process to solve problems, create prototypes and understand the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. Using design software and our 3D printers, students learn to bring their creativity to life by creating 3D virtual images/models of their prototypes. PLEASE NOTE: The class is a one-semester-long course on Design & Modeling. Students will then take Intro. to Robotics the following semester with Mr. Valdez.(See description above)

Advanced Robotics (Mr. Valdez & Ms. Saracino) -  Prerequisites, recommendation, and qualifying rubric required.

Students who want to go into competition robotics must take either Introduction to Engineering and Robotics or Vex IQ/Flight & Space plus must apply to get into class and be recommended by either Mr. Valdez or Ms. Saracino because of the limited amount of space.  Students will dive deeper into many different mechanisms and programming robots using C++(VexCode).  And those who choose can compete in competitions on Saturdays.  

Exploratory Robotics A / Flight & Space B (Ms. Saracino) 

It is a prerequisite for Advanced Robotics.  

Exploratory Robotics A - Students build, program and drive VEX IQ robots by following step-by-step directions. Students then expand their designs, builds and programs, applying their knowledge with creativity. This hands-on, introductory class begins with engineering challenges including making paper airplanes, building spaghetti/marshmallow towers, and creating balloon rocket thrusters 

Flight & Space B - In the spring semester, students learn and apply Newton’s Laws of Motion to paper airplanes and create gliders they test in a real wind tunnel. Then they apply their knowledge to space by making parachutes, jet straws, arrows, and bottle rockets. We study the current Mission to Mars, the Perseverance robot, the Ingenuity helicopter, and the International Space Station. Students apply their knowledge of flight & space using the Oculus Virtual Reality headset programs. This project-based class is very interactive and exciting.  

Intro. to RC Race Challenge A/Intro. Coding B (EXPLORATN SCI A/B/ Samayoa / Valdez) Serves as a Prerequisite for Advanced RC Race Challenge Team.  

Students will be introduced to engineering concepts as exhibited in the world of automobile racing. Students will become certified in three key aspects of race engineering: Driving, Drifting and mechanical engineering. Students will race RC cars against each other in the Irving race track. In this course, students will build an RC fuel cell car by applying their knowledge of fuel cell technology. Finally, students will explore the technology behind video games designed to enhance race car drivers performance. 

This introductory computer science course empowers students to create authentic artifacts and engage with computer science as a medium for creativity, communication, problem-solving, and fun. Semester 1 - Exploration and Expression: Introduces students to computer science as a path to problem-solving, communication, and personal expression. This semester focuses on the visible aspects of computing and computer science, and encourages students to see computer science around them and how they can engage with it as a tool.  

PLEASE NOTE: The class is a one-semester-long course on RC Challenge. Students will then take Intro. to Coding the following semester with Mr. Valdez.

(See description above)

Adv. RC Team Challenge (Mr. Samayoa) - Prerequisite Intro. to RC/Design and Modeling and Teacher test/signature required 

In the Ten80 Advance Race Team Challenge elective class, students will  apply the three key aspects of race engineering: Problem Solving, Driving through Data, and Mechanical Systems to develop their own racing team and participate in local, state and national STEM League competition. Students will use 3D printers to create car parts to enhance car performance. Advanced mechanical concepts will be introduced in order for students to receive their Adv. Driver/Pit Crew Certifications. Finally, students will use the technology behind video games designed to enhance race car drivers performance.  Students will have the opportunity to compete in the Ten80 National STEM League and the Horizon Hydrogen Grand Prix.

Students interested in the team must have successfully completed one year of Intro. to RC Challenge/ OR Intro to Robotics/Design and Modeling course. * Due to school closure interruptions that occurred in the last two years: We are waiving the prerequisite to new and incoming students who are interested the team class, if they attend the informational session and successfully complete certain requirements. Email Mr. Samayoa if you are interested in learning more about this opportunity: edgar.samayoa@lausd.net  

Intro. to Game Design/Collaboration no prerequisite  Mr. Vallin

This class will include in-depth training in one's communication and collaboration with others. Students will learn how to incorporate effective modes of communication and listening skills while simultaneously building literacy in Esports. They will also learn about the intersection of screen usage and mental and physical health.

Minecraft Game Design and Architecture - no prerequisite - Ms. Solis and Mr. Hook

Minecraft prepares students for the future workplace through coding challenges and collaborative building projects. During this one year course students will analyze architectural styles, reconstruct historical buildings with specific aesthetic criteria, and build modern buildings with a focus on architectural drafting and measurement. Students use coding fundamentals to complete projects and challenges. Student projects demonstrate the role of science, technology, engineering, art and mathematics in architecture. All students in the course are required to compete in the Minecraft Global Build Challenge.

VISUAL ART ELECTIVES 

Intro to Art   no prerequisite Mr. Ro

A basic exploratory course in the fundamentals of art introducing a variety of media and techniques utilizing different types of drawing, collage, mixed media, and printmaking. Students will learn the elements and principles of design. Students perceive and learn to analyze and respond to their own art, that of classmates and well known artists. They will gain understanding of its historical and cultural references.

Graphic Design. - no prerequisite 

Students will learn to use the Principles of Design as they create using Adobe Photoshop, InDesign, Illustrator and Animate, as well as with non-digital media. Advanced students will be challenged to deepen their facility with design tools and principles and are welcome to take this class multiple times with all new projects each year. Course curriculum is project-based and includes photo editing, vector drawing, website publishing, logos, art, cartoon characters and topical studies.  

Film Analysis & Appreciation w/ Ms. Garza-Silva - no prerequisite 

Movies are a fundamental part of American culture and one of our greatest forms of artistic expression. This course is designed to teach students how to analyze, discuss, and appreciate the art of storytelling through film. My objective is to teach students how to be discerning and thoughtful movie-goers by watching, talking, and writing about a diverse selection of movies. This class will emphasize the analysis and understanding of the following: basic movie genres, narrative fundamentals, theme, the style and evolution of movies and how they reflect our changing culture. By the end of the course, students should expect to know about various movie-making essentials such as directing, acting, sound, score, lighting, scriptwriting, etc. Students will be expected to be active listeners/viewers and critics. 

(We will not be making/producing movies; that’s Ms. Gavin’s class!) 

(Do not sign up for this class if you already took Film in the 2021/22 school year. See Advance Film Option below.)

Advanced Film Analysis & Appreciation w/ Ms. Garza - prerequisite previous enrollment in Ms. Garza-Silva’s or Ms. Gavin’s Intro Film Production classes 

Drawing upon the skills developed in the introduction to Film Analysis & Appreciation or Film Production, students will explore more challenging movies and themes. For example, we will watch a series of movies directed by the master of suspense, Alfred Hitchcock. We will study culturally and historically significant topics as told through movies in depth and with a critical lens. Listening, speaking, and writing skills are emphasized. Students will be expected to be active listeners/viewers. 

Film Production w/ Ms. Gavin (No prerequisites)

The Film Production elective is perfect for students who love film, television and storytelling and want to put their passion into action; however, it’s also great for students who don’t know anything about studying films and movie-making! By the end of the year, students will have the tools to tell their own stories through film, and use their critical eye to discuss/review films. First Semester: students will learn the basics of film history, genre, and production. We will be using simple equipment such as 4K handheld cameras, students' own phones, and iMovie to prove how easy film production can be. 

Adv. Film Production w/ Ms. Gavin - prerequisite previous enrollment in Ms. Gavin’s class 

The advanced film class will build on what we learned in the general Film Production class. Students will watch movies and analyze how they were written/film/edited and have more freedom to write and produce their own films throughout the year. 

PERFORMING ARTS ELECTIVES

NEW! Introduction to Drama

During this course, students will be introduced to the art of acting in order to develop an appreciation of the art and an understanding of how various acting techniques may be used to heighten one’s awareness and as a tool for self-realization. Drama offers participants the chance to experience the excitement and rewards of theater arts while developing poise, social skills, confidence and the ability to work with others.

Beginning and Intermediate Strings: No prerequisite Mr. Cerrato

The beginning strings class is for students who have no prior experience playing a string instrument. The students are given the opportunity to try the different string instruments. Through an instrument selection process that considers physical attributes, timbral preference, and aural skills, we help students find the right instrument for them. Beginning string students can learn to play the violin, viola, cello, and string bass. The class will primarily use the A New Direction in Strings method book. From instrument care and maintenance to music literacy, students learn the fundamental skills necessary to perform on their instrument. Beginning string students perform in two concerts and two recitals for friends and family at Irving’s auditorium. 

The intermediate string class is for 7th and 8th grade students who have previously taken beginning strings or who audition/place into this class at the teacher’s discretion. The focus of the intermediate level class is to build upon the skills developed in beginning strings. The class will primarily use the A New Direction in Strings method book with a stronger emphasis on supplemental materials. This is to prepare the student for the advanced level course. More key centers will be introduced as well as complete scales with arpeggios and thirds added. This course will place a strong emphasis on pedagogy and ensemble playing. Intermediate string students perform in two concerts and two recitals for friends and family at Irving’s auditorium. 

Beginning and Intermediate Band:  No prerequisite Mr. Cerrato

The beginning band class is for students who have no prior experience playing a band instrument. The students are given the opportunity to try the different woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments. Through an instrument selection process that considers physical attributes, timbral preference, and aural skills, we help students find the right instrument for them. Beginning Band members can learn to play the flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, tuba, and percussion instruments. From instrument care and maintenance to music literacy, students learn the fundamental skills necessary to perform on their instrument. Beginning string students perform in two concerts and one recital for friends and family at Irving’s auditorium. 

Intermediate band is for 7th and 8th grade students who have previously taken beginning band  or who audition/place into this class at the teacher’s discretion. The focus of the intermediate level class is to build upon the skills developed in beginning band. The class will primarily use the Standard of Excellence method book with a stronger emphasis on supplemental materials. This is to prepare the student for the advanced level course. More key centers will be introduced as well as complete scales with arpeggios and thirds added. This course will place a strong emphasis on pedagogy and ensemble playing.  Intermediate band  students perform in two concerts and one recital for friends and family at Irving’s auditorium. 

Orchestra (Advanced Band/Advanced Strings) Mr. Cerrato

The advanced band/strings (orchestra) class is for students who have at least two years of experience playing their instrument or who audition/place into this class at the teacher’s discretion. ​Students in Advanced band focus on playing and reading skills which will prepare them to play in high school music ensembles, and beyond. Students are also given the opportunity to play in small groups, full orchestra, compose music and perform as soloists at our department recitals. Students are able to play in several key centers, meters, and styles. A strong emphasis is placed on supplemental materials and ensemble literature. The advanced band class regularly represents Irving at LAUSD’s instructional summit days and has participated in the LA Phil’s Symphonies for Schools program. Advanced band students perform in two concerts, two recitals for friends and family at Irving’s auditorium and other community events.  

Introduction to Piano/Keyboard - No prerequisite Mr. Vallin

This course is designed for students who wish to develop basic piano playing skills or expand on their existing skills. Time in class will be spent both on and off the keyboards. While playing students will be working individually and in small groups to master techniques of playing. Students will also learn music history and theory.

Beginning and Intermediate Dance - No prerequisite  Ms. Dunn

Dance Styles and Technique is a one year class designed to give the student an advanced introduction to various dance styles including world traditional and urban styles such as salsa and hip hop, classical technique including jazz, modern, ballet and tap, and specialty styles such as dance fitness and conditioning, musical theater and light tumbling. Students will also be taught basic and intermediate choreography concepts. Students will get to participate in 4 shows per year. 2 shows are usually part of the mandatory requirement. Dances covered are: traditional classical forms of dance including ballet, jazz and modern, tap, hip hop, house style, as well as swing, Latin, African, other world dance styles, conditioning and tumbling. 

Advanced Dance (Team) and Production Prerequisite : see below Ms. Dunn

Dance team meets on average three days per week including a number of Saturdays. I break my dancers into three performing levels and three different dance styles usually. This year we may go for four dance teams for more overall point potentials.

Dance team has three captains and three co-captains elected to the position, two drill coaches and a rehearsal manager. Captains are responsible for assisting learning of choreography, learning of routines, placements, modeling behavior, helping the team to keep focus and assist troubleshooting all items relevant to team needs (meetings for team fundraising, team gear, costumes, competition selection, communications, organizing rehearsals, schedules, skills, and team bonding exercises).

Dancers will go for 4-5 competitions for next year, 3 school day shows, 3 night shows and a number of invitational performance events. Our dance team is being recognized by our councilman Mitch O’Farrell, Dance and Dialogue, Brockus Dance Project, Versastyle and various other dance companies that want to come in and offer support for what has been built. Schools are looking to bridge with us for our talented dancers! We’re on the way up!

The production portion of the class focuses on fundraising, marketing, advertising, and building the show framework including dances for each class, costumes and resource requirements. This course is designed to give students an opportunity to participate and experience a local, state and national competitions. Placement try outs and teacher approval required. Please email Ms. Dunn connie.dunn@lausd.net for try-outs/audition information.

Beginning Spanish Elective 

Here are some things introduction to Spanish is designed for students to be able to do:

Introduce and describe themselves and others.

Say how they feel and talk about family relationships.

Describe customs in Latin countries.

Identify people and things.

Express likes and dislikes.

Give commands and advice.

Use travel vocabulary.

Describe nature and the environment.

Dual Language Program w/ Spanish Elective 

One of the District’s goals is to increase the number students who are bilingual and biliterate. The  Dual Language Education Program goal is that students reach advanced levels of academic and language proficiency in both languages and gain sociocultural understanding and competence. Students enrolled in the dual language program at Irving will take Spanish as a foreign language elective and will be enrolled in ONE Core-subject course to continue to enhance their Spanish-language skills. For more information, call us at 818-253-1690.

SPORTS  ELECTIVES

NEW! Soccer Clinic with Alarcon

Soccer clinic provide players a rounded soccer experience covering a broad range of soccer techniques, skills, and tactics. Players will be challenged at an appropriate level while receiving instruction in a fun, positive environment.

New! Basketball with Balderas

There will be a focus on offensive and defensive skill development and building positive habits that lead to better efficiency on the basketball court.  Emphasis will be placed on effective ball handling, moving without the ball to get open through using screens and effective cutting, perfecting offensive scoring moves, proper shooting form and mechanics, making smart decisions with and without the basketball, and improving and developing a defensive mindset. 

LIFE SKILLS ELECTIVES

Leadership Ms. Guevara

FOR 8TH GRADE ONLY. Must have a 3.00 GPA or higher from the final spring report card and good attendance.  The course content of the Leadership class at Irving Magnet School is based on standards designed to teach participants teambuilding, communication skills, group and peer leadership, problem-solving, time management, and assist with their personal development as leaders. Students will serve as Irving Ambassadors, participate in decision making, serve in various committees, fundraise and complete service learning hours. We will also be assisting Graphic design students with the school's yearbook.  ****ONLY AVAILABLE for 8th-grade students. After choosing leadership as one of your selections, we will check your grades, referrals and we will reach out to your teachers for a recommendation.

Service  Ms. Barajas/Mr. Lozano

FOR 8TH GRADE ONLY. Must have a 3.00 GPA or higher from the final spring report card and good attendance.  Must have a note from the teacher or office you would like to work with, and periods they would need your assistance. Each class will be different and based on the needs of the person you are helping. You will be cleaning up, filing papers, help other students, make copies, take passes/notes, etc. Must be reliable and responsible.

Service for Special Education Classes: (kh ⅜)

FOR 8TH GRADE ONLY. Must have a 3.00 GPA or higher from the final spring report card and good attendance. Specifically for students who wish to support in special education classrooms, during elective classes with special education students as a one-to-one support buddy, during APE, with visually impaired students in electives or core classes. Must be reliable and responsible. Requires approval by counselor or AP.

If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. We are happy to help!