Elective Courses

Art 6:

In this course students will learn about art through the use of hands-on experiences and a wide variety of art materials. This includes drawing, painting, and 3-dimensional art methods such as sewing. Students will take inspiration from direct observation, memory, and their imagination to create beautiful works of art! Students will also be introduced to art from various artists and cultures to expand their appreciation of art in different societies. 

Band 6:

In Band students will learn the basics of instrument families and their role in the ensemble. Students choose an instrument of focus and learn proper posture, breathing, and playing techniques. Students prepare music as a group for multiple public performances during the school year. Students learn the basics of music theory and how to use our available technology as tools for progress on our instrument. 

Chorus 6:

In choir, students learn how to sing together as a group and prepare for at least three concerts a year. Students also learn how to read and write music, how music works, learn how music has developed over the years, and explore music from all over the world. 

Music Appreciation 6:

Students will look at music in our culture and others to see how we use it in our everyday lives. We will explore movie music and how it is used in some of our favorite movies. Music History will take a look at how music has evolved from the music of the Renaissance to today. Music in Advertising will discuss commercials, ads, and billboards. We will also take a trip around the world to see how music is different and similar in countries around the world. 

Orchestra 6:

In 6th grade Orchestra, students will learn how to play the violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students will learn basic instrument technique, music theory skills, and how to read musical notation on a staff.  Students who learn how to play a musical instrument work on math, reading, aural, and kinesthetic skills in class. 

Paleontology:

In this course, you'll embark on a fascinating journey back in time to explore the history of life on Earth. You'll explore topics such as the process of fossilization, the geologic time scale, and the incredible diversity of prehistoric life forms. Engage in hands-on activities, like examining replicas of fossils, reconstructing skeletal models, and even simulating digs. You'll develop observation skills and critical thinking as you piece together the stories of long-extinct creatures.

Project Based Learning 6:

In this course, you'll experience a dynamic and hands-on approach to learning. You'll actively engage in solving real-world problems through meaningful projects, collaborate with your peers, research, brainstorm, and design solutions. The emphasis will be on critical thinking, communication, and creativity as you tackle various challenges. You'll have the freedom to explore topics that interest you and create your project plans. This class will help you develop essential skills like problem-solving, time management, and teamwork while deepening your understanding of the subject matter. 

Skills for Success 6:

Skills for Success will help students navigate the challenges encountered in school and everyday life in a proactive and productive way. Throughout this course, students will work on learning and implementing several habits to help ensure success in various areas of their lives. Students will also build upon skills for healthy digital and interpersonal relationships. 

Steam 6:

Students will be integrating science, technology, engineering, art, math, and coding to learn how to solve real life problems and ideas by exploring, creating, and working collaboratively. 

Weather:

The semester long weather elective will introduce students to concepts necessary to understand weather and climate. Topics include  the water cycle, parts of the atmosphere, types of air masses and how they interact, weather hazards and weather forecasting.  

Writer's Block 6:

This course is designed to introduce students to a variety of writing topics, purposes, and formats. Students complete writing pieces and projects in areas of informational, narrative, and argumentative writing. Students expand on their foundational writing skills and engage in academic writing.