Middle School 7th-8th Course Description Guide
Middle School 7th-8th Course Description Guide
This guide provides Mustang Public Schools parents and students with enrollment and course information for the 2026-2027 school year.
Traditional/in-person (default enrollment model for students) is the face-to-face model most students participate in. In the traditional model, students attend school all day, face-to-face with their classroom teachers and peers. Students will be issued a device (Chromebook) to use in classes and to take home each evening.
Virtual (option for students that qualify) - Mustang Virtual Academy (MVA) offers students the opportunity to complete all coursework through the online platform Edgenuity. Students must provide their own internet connectivity and may use a personal device or check out a school-provided device (Chromebook) if available. In this Virtual Learning Program, students complete 100% of their coursework in a virtual setting off-campus, under the direction of a certified teacher. Assistance is available upon request, and participation requires a minimum commitment of one semester.
MVA relies on the support of adults at home and within the online classroom environment to ensure student success. The program is designed to help students maintain pace with the current MPS scope and sequence, develop a love of learning, and build essential academic and social-emotional skills. Through this structured Virtual Academy, students work toward becoming future-ready, with open communication between teachers, students, and parents being a priority.
Success in this program depends heavily on the student’s ability to stay self-motivated and productive without direct supervision. Edgenuity tracks the amount of productive time each student spends on coursework. If your student may struggle to log in consistently and dedicate adequate time each day to their learning, this program may not be a good fit. Students will also need to come on campus to complete State-mandated assessments (OSTP) in late spring.
All 7th and 8th-grade students will take:
Core courses
Students enroll in the four content areas, and all courses are full-year.
ELA (2 classes)
Math (1 class)
Science (1 class)
Social Studies (1 class)
Accelerated Placement Enrollment Information
Accelerated courses are academically advanced courses designed to challenge motivated students and help them understand rigorous content.
The coursework requires students to complete independent, analytical assignments and to undertake substantial work outside of class.
Accelerated middle school courses are designed to prepare students for high school accelerated and AP courses. AP courses are college-level courses taught in a high school setting.
Students who experience success in Accelerated courses typically exhibit the following personal and academic characteristics:
Reading on or above grade level
Strong study skills and self-motivation
Proficient oral and written communication skills
Self-discipline to plan, organize, and carry out tasks to completion
Interest and self-directedness in a particular subject
Students are not expected to enroll in Accelerated courses in all core subject areas. Students are encouraged to take Accelerated courses that are appropriate to their interests and academic strengths. The number of Accelerated courses varies with students’ motivation, self-discipline, and available time outside of class.
Elective courses
Students enroll in electives for 2 class periods. Most electives are semester-long, but a few are year-long (two-semester) classes. The combination chosen will total 4 semesters.
Examples:
Student A takes a year-long band and a year-long choir. No other electives needed because all elective requirements are met.
Student B takes a year-long band, a semester choir, and one semester elective.
Student C takes four semester classes.
Student D takes a semester choir and three semester classes.
For Classes Requiring a Selection Process
These classes do not appear on the enrollment forms. Auditions/applications for these classes take place later in the spring, prior to the next school year. If selected, some of the students' original elective choices are replaced by the class(es) he/she is selected for.
Classes this applies to:
Play Production
Competitive Robotics
Auditioned Choirs (Concert Chorale, Bella Voce)
Band
Additional elective course information
Students not demonstrating proficiency in ELA and Math may have one or more semester elective classes replaced by a Skill Building Class to help them further develop critical academic skills.
If you enroll in Choir, choose the year-long OR semester-long class; you cannot choose both.
As an 8th grader, you can choose to take both Band and a year-long Choir.
Semester-long classes do not need to be chosen if a student’s electives are fulfilled with Band and/or choir classes. Only Alternative Electives would need to be chosen.
When choosing ALTERNATE ELECTIVES, make course selections that ARE DIFFERENT than your top choices.
7 ELA: In 7th grade, students move beyond simple reading and writing to become thoughtful communicators. This year, students will learn how to dive deep into complex books, using specific evidence to explain how characters and settings create a story’s mood. They will expand their "word power" by studying Greek roots and learning how word choice changes the meaning of a sentence. In writing, students will master advanced sentence structures to create more professional-sounding essays and stories. They will also learn how to fact-check sources for accuracy—an essential skill in today’s digital world—and practice sharing their ideas clearly in group discussions.
Grade: 7 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
8 ELA: The 8th-grade curriculum is designed to polish students’ skills as they prepare for the jump to high school. Students will tackle challenging nonfiction and literature, learning how to uncover hidden meanings and analyze an author’s tone. A major focus this year is building strong arguments; students will learn not just to state their opinions, but also to identify and address opposing viewpoints with evidence. Their writing will become more sophisticated as they experiment with different "voices" and sentence varieties. By the end of the year, students will be confident researchers and presenters, capable of creating high-quality projects across both digital and traditional media.
Grade: 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Accelerated ELA: Accelerated ELA courses (7th and 8th Grade) are designed for students who are ready for a faster pace and deeper intellectual challenges. Rather than just giving "more homework," this track focuses on higher-level thinking and creative problem-solving. We aim to prepare students for the rigors of Accelerated and AP courses in high school by encouraging them to analyze texts with a meticulous eye. This course is ideal for students who are passionate about reading and writing and are eager to take more ownership of their learning. Students will be challenged to think critically, write with a unique voice, and explore complex themes across a range of literary genres.
Grade: 7 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Grade: 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
7 Math: In 7th grade, students move from basic arithmetic to "real-world" math. The big focus this year is proportionality—understanding how numbers relate to each other through rates, ratios, and percentages. Your student will learn how to solve equations and inequalities, helping them make sense of everyday situations like calculating discounts or predicting weather patterns. We also focus on "number sense," ensuring students can use calculators effectively while still being able to spot if an answer doesn't look quite right. By the end of the year, they will be comfortable collecting data, making predictions, and finding the area and volume of various shapes.
Grade: 7 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Accelerated Pre-Algebra: This course is designed for students who are ready to move at a faster pace and have already demonstrated mastery of 7th-grade math concepts. It follows the same high-level standards and curriculum as 8th-Grade Pre-Algebra but is taken a year earlier. Because this course moves quickly, it is specifically reserved for students who have completed Accelerated 6th-grade math or passed a proficiency exam. It serves as the final step before students begin earning high school credit in middle school.
Grade: 7 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: 6th-Grade Accelerated Math Course
or completed proficiency-based promotion Overview
8 Pre-Algebra: Pre-Algebra is the "bridge" that prepares students for the challenges of high school math. The main goal is building Algebraic Reasoning. Students will spend a lot of time working with linear functions and "rates of change" (how one number changes in relation to another). We don't just teach them how to get the right answer; we teach them how to justify their steps and check their work using different methods like graphing and estimation. Students will also master important geometry concepts, including the Pythagorean Theorem and the calculation of the surface area and volume of complex 3D objects.
Grade: 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Accelerated Algebra I: This is a high school-level course taken in middle school. Students will dive deep into the world of functions and data, learning how to solve complex real-world problems using tables, graphs, and algebraic equations. This course prepares students for advanced topics like Geometry and Algebra II. Because this is a high school equivalent course, your student’s grade will appear on their official high school transcript and will count as one of the four math credits required for graduation. Enrollment is available only to students who have successfully completed Accelerated Pre-Algebra.
Grade: 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: 7th-Grade Accelerated Math Course
or completed proficiency-based promotion Overview
7 Science: In 7th grade, students become investigators of the invisible forces that power our world. They will move beyond just memorizing facts to building models that show how atoms rearrange during chemical reactions to create entirely new substances. The course focuses heavily on energy and ecosystems—students will experiment with how mass and speed affect energy, and discover how plants and animals convert sunlight into food through photosynthesis. Students will also tackle "big picture" environmental challenges, analyzing how resource availability affects animal populations and designing their own solutions to reduce human impact on our planet.
Grade: 7 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
8 Science: 8th-grade science is about understanding the rules of the universe. Students will explore physics by designing solutions for collisions and investigating invisible forces such as gravity and magnetism. The curriculum looks at the future and the past: students will learn how digital signals transmit information (like how their cell phones work) and dive into the fossil record to see how life on Earth has changed over millions of years. They will also explore the mysteries of space and biology, covering everything from why the moon orbits the Earth to how tiny changes in DNA can help a species survive in a changing world.
Grade: 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Accelerated Science: The Accelerated Science track is designed for students who are curious, driven, and ready for a deeper dive into the "why" behind scientific discovery. This course isn't just about more work; it’s about higher-level thinking. It will combine Physical, Life, and Earth sciences into a rigorous curriculum that mirrors what students will see in high school Accelerated and AP classes.
Grade: 7 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Grade: 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Social Studies
Oklahoma Academic Standards for Social Studies (coming soon)
7 Social Studies: In 7th grade, students become global explorers, focusing on the diverse cultures and landscapes of Africa, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. This isn't just about memorizing names on a map; it’s about understanding how geography shapes how people live, work, and trade. Students will investigate how history has influenced current events and look at the "spatial patterns" of our world—basically, why cities are built where they are and how humans adapt to their environments. Your student will also begin to act like a historian by learning how to tell the difference between firsthand accounts (primary sources) and later reports (secondary sources).
Grade: 7 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
8 History: 8th grade is a journey through the most defining years of American history. It will cover the time period from the American Revolution through the Civil War and Reconstruction. Students will go beyond just dates and names to analyze the "why" behind the turning points in our nation’s history. A major focus is placed on Civics: understanding the documents, political ideas, and influential personalities that created our government. By the end of the year, students will have a deep understanding of the challenges our country faced as it grew and the foundational ideas that still guide the United States today.
Grade: 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Accelerated Social Studies: Our Accelerated Social Studies track (for 7th and 8th grades) is designed for students who enjoy debate, deep reading, and complex problem-solving. While the basic topics match the standard grades, the depth of study is much greater. This course is specifically designed to prepare students for the fast-paced, analytical environment of high school Accelerated and AP courses. Students will be expected to read more extensively outside of class and engage in high-level discussions that challenge them to think critically about power, society, and historical perspectives. This is the ideal path for students who want to develop the writing and research skills necessary for advanced academic success.
Grade: 7 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Grade: 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: none Course Overview
Computer Applications: Think of this as Digital Literacy 101. In this course, students move beyond basic social media use to become professional tech users. We review typing techniques and computer fundamentals, then dive deep into Microsoft Office and Google Drive. Your student will learn how to create professional documents, organize data in spreadsheets, and design polished presentations—skills they will use through high school, college, and into their careers.
Grade: 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Automation and Robotics: In this hands-on course, students discover the magic behind the machines. Using the VEX Robotics platform, students don’t just play with robots—they design, build, and program them. They’ll learn about mechanical systems and how to write code to make their robots perform specific tasks. It’s a perfect blend of physics, engineering, and computer science.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Design and Modeling: In this course, students act as Junior Engineers. They learn how to turn an idea from a rough sketch into a 3D reality. Using the same type of 3D design software used by professionals, students create virtual models of their inventions
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Flight and Space: Students explore the science of aeronautics—how planes fly and how we explore space. They will use simulation software to test their own designs and get hands-on experience building and testing flight technology, including drones. It’s an exciting way to see how math and science are used to conquer the final frontier.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
STEM/Robotics: This course is for students who want to take their engineering skills to the next level. They will spend time on advanced research and real-world technology challenges. A major highlight of this class is the opportunity to prepare for robotics competitions, where students work in teams to solve complex problems.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
STEM/Coding: This course focuses on computational thinking—the ability to break down a giant problem into tiny, manageable steps. Students will learn how to communicate with computers using various programming languages. They’ll move from being consumers of technology to creators, building their own simple programs and games while strengthening their logic skills.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
STEM/Advanced Coding: This course is a "deep dive" into complex programming. It will challenge students with professional-level concepts that prepare them for high school computer science tracks and give them a head start in the fast-growing job market.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Art I: In this course, students create a diverse portfolio of two-dimensional and three-dimensional works. Throughout the course, you will explore fundamental techniques in drawing, painting, and sculpture while mastering the essential elements of design and principles of art. By integrating art history into hands-on projects, this course connects classic aesthetic traditions with modern creative expression.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Art II: This course challenges highly motivated artists to expand their mastery of the elements of art and principles of design. Students dive deeper into diverse media—including drawing, painting, graphic design, photography, ceramics, and printmaking—to refine their technical skills. Beyond the studio, participants engage in rigorous studies of art criticism, aesthetics, and history to ground their work in a broader cultural context. Students sharpen their verbal communication through regular classroom critiques, explore professional career paths in the arts, and showcase their finished pieces within the local community.
Grade: 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: Art 1
Concert Band: Students join this ensemble through audition or instructor recommendation to advance their instrumental skills at a novice to intermediate level. Depending on enrollment, students master their craft through full ensemble rehearsals or specialized study within instrument families (brass, woodwind, or percussion). As a unified Concert Band, students perform at select athletic events, deliver at least two annual concerts, and compete in an adjudicated large-ensemble festival. Beyond core performances, musicians may audition for honor ensembles or participate in solo and chamber events. Families must provide required performance attire. Some elective events may require additional fees. Use of school-owned instruments requires an additional fee.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: Successful completion of band in the prior school year, audition, or instructor approval.
Symphonic Band: Intermediate and proficient musicians enter this premier ensemble through audition or instructor recommendation to further refine their technical mastery. Participants engage in advanced ensemble repertoire, studying either as a full band or within specialized instrument families (brass, woodwind, or percussion). These sections combine to form a powerful symphonic unit for high-profile performances, including select athletic events, at least two annual concerts, and adjudicated festivals. We strongly encourage students to expand their musicality through honor ensemble auditions, solo performances, and chamber music opportunities. Families must provide required performance attire. Some elective events may require additional fees. Use of school-owned instruments requires an additional fee.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: Successful completion of band in the prior school year, audition, or instructor approval.
Wind Ensemble: Proficient and advanced musicians join this elite ensemble via audition or instructor recommendation to achieve the advanced levels of instrumental artistry. The group meets daily as a full ensemble to rehearse sophisticated repertoire and refine professional performance standards. Members of the Wind Ensemble represent the program at select athletic events, perform a minimum of two annual concerts, and compete in prestigious adjudicated festivals. At this level, students take on the responsibility of participating in honor ensemble auditions, solo performances, and chamber music events to further their musical growth. Families must provide required performance attire. Some elective events may require additional fees. Use of school-owned instruments requires an additional fee.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: year-long Prerequisite: Successful completion of band in the prior school year, audition, or instructor approval.
Concert Chorale: Proficient vocalists enter this premier mixed ensemble via audition or instructor recommendation to master advanced vocal technique, sight-reading, and music theory. Students explore a diverse repertoire spanning various musical styles and historical periods while refining their choral artistry. Throughout the year, members perform in several formal concerts and pursue competitive opportunities at regional contests and music festivals. This course offers students the flexibility of semester-long or year-long enrollment. Fees are attached to this class for uniforms, and potential musical opportunities outside of the classroom.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester or year-long Prerequisite: by audition
Bella Voce: Vocalists performing in the treble range (Soprano and Alto) join this advanced ensemble through audition or instructor recommendation. This course challenges singers to master proficient vocal techniques, complex sight-reading, and advanced music theory. As they explore a wide range of musical genres, students refine their ensemble blend and individual artistry. Members showcase their work in public concerts and may choose to compete in regional contests and elite music festivals. Fees are attached to this class for uniforms, and potential musical opportunities outside of the classroom.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester or year-long Prerequisite: by audition
Cantus: This ensemble welcomes all students performing in the tenor and bass vocal ranges, with no audition required for entry. Singers develop fundamental to proficient vocal techniques, sight-reading skills, and music theory through the study of diverse musical styles. Throughout the course, students perform in formal concerts and gain eligibility for various contests and music festivals. This class provides a supportive environment for vocal growth and is available for either a semester or a full academic year. Fees are attached to this class for uniforms, and potential musical opportunities outside of the classroom.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester or year-long Prerequisite: none
7th grade Treble Choir: This welcoming ensemble invites all 7th-grade students with treble vocal ranges (Soprano and Alto) to begin or continue their musical journey—no audition required. Students build a strong musical foundation by developing fundamental vocal techniques, sight-reading skills, and music theory. Through the study of diverse musical styles, singers refine their performance abilities and perform in several concerts throughout the year. Students also enjoy opportunities to participate in regional contests and music festivals. This course is available for either a semester or a full academic year. Fees are attached to this class for uniforms, and potential musical opportunities outside of the classroom.
Grade: 7 Length of course: semester or year-long Prerequisite: none
8th grade Treble Choir: This ensemble invites all 8th-grade students with treble vocal ranges (Soprano and Alto) to develop their voices in a collaborative setting—no audition required. Students strengthen their musical foundation by mastering fundamental vocal techniques, sight-reading, and music theory at the novice to proficient levels. By exploring a wide array of musical styles, singers prepare for formal concert performances and gain eligibility for various contests and music festivals. This course is available for either a semester or a full academic year. Fees are attached to this class for uniforms, and potential musical opportunities outside of the classroom.
Grade: 8 Length of course: semester or year-long Prerequisite: none
Introduction to Theatre: This performance-based course invites all students to build a solid creative foundation through the art of Theatre. Students advance from collaborative group presentations to confident individual performances while mastering essential theatrical terminology. Through hands-on coursework, participants explore pantomime, improvisation, script writing, and character analysis, all while refining stage presence and memorization skills. Beyond the spotlight, this course emphasizes vital life skills such as team-building, conflict resolution, and interpersonal communication. Students conclude their experience by performing scenes for a live audience, making this an ideal confidence-booster for any student regardless of their future career path.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Play Production: Students enter this elite production course via audition or instructor recommendation to apply their theatrical knowledge in a professional-style environment. Throughout a focused six-to-seven-week production cycle, participants collaborate to stage a complete play, taking on advanced roles in performance, technical theatre, and publicity. In addition to the mainstage production, students receive an introduction to competitive speech and theatre, with opportunities to attend OSSAA Novice competitions alongside high school mentors. This course demands a high level of commitment, as students refine their artistry through hands-on experience in every facet of the dramatic arts.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: Introduction to Theatre. Audition and instructor approval required.
Physical Education Electives
Outdoor Education: Outdoor Education introduces students to the legendary natural resources of Oklahoma while teaching them skills they can use for a lifetime. This high-interest course takes students out of the traditional gym setting to master activities such as fishing, archery, and boating. Through programs like Oklahoma Fishing in the Schools and the National Archery in the Schools Program, students develop focus, patience, and coordination. More than just outdoor skills, this class emphasizes safety certifications (including boater and hunter education) and teaches essential social skills, such as teamwork and leadership, in challenging new environments.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
PE: Our core PE program is designed to spark a lifelong love for movement. The course has two main goals: building the physical strength and agility needed for an active life, and teaching students how to monitor and manage their own fitness levels. Students will experience a wide variety of activities, from high-energy team sports like soccer, flag football, and volleyball, to individual sports like pickleball, disc golf, and track and field. Beyond the physical benefits, PE helps students develop the sportsmanship and positive behaviors needed to be great teammates and community members.
Grading Note: Student success is measured through a combination of daily participation, skill demonstrations, and occasional written reflections on fitness concepts.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Strength and Conditioning: Strength & Conditioning is a course designed specifically for the current student-athlete. This class bridges the gap between middle school and the high-intensity environment of high school athletics. The primary goal is not just "moving heavy weight," but mastering the mechanics of movement. Students will begin to develop the explosive power, core stability, and functional strength necessary to excel in school athletics. This course is intended for students currently enrolled in school sports or those planning to try out for high school teams. Students are expected to bring a growth mindset, proper weightlifting clothes & shoes each day, and a consistent work ethic.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Bronco 101 (Required for 7th grade): Think of this course as a "Success Toolkit" for middle school and beyond. Designed specifically for 7th graders, Bronco 101 helps students navigate the big transition to middle school by teaching essential life skills like time management, stress management, and goal setting. In addition to building emotional intelligence and communication skills, students will master the digital tools they need for academic success, including proper typing techniques and the professional use of Microsoft Office and Google Drive.
Grade: 7 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Family and Consumer Science (FACS): FACS provides students with hands-on experience in the essential skills needed to manage a home and personal life. Students will learn the basics of nutrition and safe food preparation, explore the world of textiles and interior design, and gain consumer education to help them make smart financial and purchasing decisions.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Middle School Spanish I: This course takes students from knowing just a few words to actually using the language. The goal is to build a vocabulary that allows students to navigate real-world situations. Students will explore the vibrant cultures of Spanish-speaking countries while learning how to talk about themselves—who they are, how they feel, and what they enjoy.
Grade: 7 & 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: none
Middle School Spanish II: This course serves as the bridge to high school-level Spanish. Students move beyond simple one-word answers and begin building fluid, complete sentences. By the end of the year, students will be able to describe their daily life, hobbies, and surroundings in detail. This course masters the mechanics of the language, ensuring students are well-prepared for the rigors of High School Spanish.
Grade: 8 Length of course: semester Prerequisite: Middle School Spanish I