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Click on the highlighted course names to be directed to the elective teacher's webpage for more information about the class.
Medea Creek Exploratory Course Descriptions 2012-2013
(6th Grade)
Semester Classes: 6th grade students automatically will be enrolled, by the computer, in TWO of the following:
Drama 6 -- Have fun practicing the basics of acting with your classmates. Learn ways to use your body, facial expression and voice to become different characters. Make your own mask and be part of a masked drama. Enjoy performing pantomimes, poetry, comic and serious skits, speeches, monologues, and scenes.
Exploring Your World: China -- This course is a hands-on introduction to the study of Chinese culture. Students are involved in learning the language, arts and heritage of China. Lessons are project-based.
Art 6 – Students will be introduced to the elements and principles of design through art experiences using a variety of media and techniques. Each student will create a personal portfolio of work.
Tech Investigations 6 – This is a student-centered class wherein students use critical thinking and problem solving skills. Students will use a variety of computer programs as well as doing hands-on building. Some of the projects are: creating songs & podcasts, designing 3-D computer models, computer programming, making stop motion videos, and building models.
Environmental Explorers-- TBA
Music Appreciation— This course introduces music reading, classroom instruments, improvisation and composition. They learn about musical theater, experiencing various works. Study includes various elements of music such as: sound, pitch dynamics, voices, instruments, rhythm, melody, harmony, and musical form. It will involve different periods, styles, artists, and composers. No previous musical study required.
OR 6th grade students may SELECT a YEARLONG Beginning Band Class or apply for ASB (see below):
Beginning Band 6 – This is a class for students who are interested in learning to play a musical instrument. Students may select from flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba or percussion. NO previous experience is necessary to enroll. There are a limited number of school instruments available. A minimum of two evening performances required.
Chorus-- A multi-grade level vocal music performance class. No experience required: Just bring your desire to sing Pop, Broadway and Choral pieces. Minimum of one evening performance per semester required.
ASB 6 – This class is for students who are interested in developing leadership skills through the planning of school wide events, various spirit events, DJ Friday’s, fundraisers and school dances. Students interested in this class should see their fifth grade teacher for an application. Students will be programmed into this class if selected. Your 5th grade teacher has information about this class.
Medea Creek Electives 2012-2013
(7th Grade)
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS Yearlong Classes (Select one)
Beginning Band 6/7/8 – This is a class for students who are interested in learning to play a musical instrument. Students may select from flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba or percussion. NO previous experience is necessary to enroll. There are a limited number of school instruments available. This class includes one mandatory evening concert per semester.
Intermediate Band 7/8-- Prerequisite: Teacher approval. This course is open to those students who have successfully completed Beginning Band. This class includes one mandatory evening concert per semester.
Advanced Band 7/8 – Prerequisite: Teacher approval. This group performs at school, festival, and community concerts. This course is open to those students who have achieved the highest level of proficiency on their instrument and who have a basic knowledge of music fundamentals. This class includes one mandatory evening concert per semester.
Chorus 7/8– This is a performance-oriented elective. Students will learn the fundamentals of music, singing technique and performance etiquette. No previous musical experience is necessary to enroll: Just bring your desire to sing Pop, Broadway and Choral pieces. This class includes one mandatory evening concert per semester.
ASB 7/8-- This class is open to students who have been elected by the student body or appointed through an application process to serve on the Associated Student Body. Students interested in this elective should pick up an application from Mr. White in room E-3. Students will be placed into this class upon acceptance, so students should list another first choice elective.
Semester Classes (Select two)
New Media Art 7/8-- Students will be introduced to a variety of graphic arts such as graphic design, computer animation, web design, and 3-D modeling on the computer. Students will learn about the history of each art the related careers.
Intro to Art 7/8 -- This class is for students who have NOT taken Art at MCMS before. Students will be introduced to the elements and principles of design through art experiences using a variety of media & techniques. Each student will create a personal portfolio of work. Additional supplies may be involved.
Art II 7/8 -- Prerequisite: Intro to Art. A further exploration into the elements and principles of design through art experiences using a variety of media & techniques. Students will create individual 2-dimensional and 3- dimensional projects, as well as communal projects. Each student will create a personal portfolio of work. Additional supplies may be involved
Art Showcase 7/8 -- Prerequisite: Recommendation from teacher only. With an emphasis on drawing & painting, this is a course for the “serious” art student exploring art history, significant art movements and the influence of art and the artist in society. Projects will be designed to expand skill levels, advance technique and develop individual style. Each student will create a personal portfolio of work and participate in class critiques. Independent sketchbook assignments will be required. Additional supplies may be needed.
Computer Applications 7/8 -- Students will use iMacs to improve and expand their skills in keyboarding, navigating the Internet, Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Drama 7/8 – This course will teach students the fundamentals of the dramatic arts. Students will learn the different aspects of play production.
Introductory French 7/8 – An introductory course of the French language where students will build oral and written vocabulary, develop conversation skills, and learn about the culture of the French-speaking world.
Introductory Spanish 7/8 – An introductory course of the Spanish language where students will build oral and written vocabulary, develop conversational skills, and learn about the culture of the Spanish-speaking world.
Panther Press 7/8 – Students will study the styles and structures of news reporting and writing and newspaper format. The class will publish Medea Creek’s Panther Press on-line, study advertising techniques, create original advertising campaigns, and analyze/evaluate “truth” in advertising.
Dynamic Digital Media 7/8 -- Students will use a variety of programs to create slideshows, songs, podcasts, videos and websites. Some of the programs they will be using are: iPhoto, GarageBand, Keynote and iMovie. Some of the projects will be done individually and others will be done in groups.
Beginning Robotics 7/8-- This class is an introduction to the LEGO Mindstorms NXT Robotics System. Students practice mechanical design, construction, programming & teamwork skills. In pairs, using LEGO building elements, motors & sensors, students build different robots & program them with a computer to move, react & make sounds to solve challenges.
Beginning Computer Programing with Scratch 7/8 -- In this class, students will explore how to create games, animations, stories, and art using Scratch, a computer learning tool that teaches programming skills. Students will draw pictures, add sound and movement, and share their projects with the class. Students with Scratch experience will be able to create more advanced programs.
Teen Entrepreneur 7/8-- Students will learn about entrepreneurship and they will create a company of their choice. In running their company, they will further their skills in using the Internet, word processing, creating spreadsheets, and designing slideshow presentations. Students will market their company by creating publications, advertisements, videos, and a website.
Solutions for a Greener Future 7/8-- Students investigate and debate global environmental issues and potential solutions to these issues through hands-‐on projects, labs, and the use of technology that they share with the community.
Mass Media 7/8-- Students will learn skills in digital publishing and yearbook production, broadcast journalism and production, managing school blogs and podcasts. Students will be trained to help in school and community events for technical aspects, advertising, and video production.
Music Technology Lab 7/8-- This course explores basic music theory, keyboard musicianship and composition through the use of electronic musical instruments, computers, and a variety of music-making and learning software. Development of note reading, ear-training, listening, keyboard proficiency, and music vocabulary is stressed through exercises and projects. Additionally, students are introduced to the musical uses of digital audio and multimedia.
Intro to Film 7/8-- This elective course will introduce students to the history of film. This class will cover various types of film, techniques and devices used by filmmakers, and provide an introduction into careers in the film industry. Through movies, students will examine elements of plot, setting, style, and point of view. Class activities include viewing, listening, researching, and analyzing film. Students will also learn how to discuss and write about films critically. This course is designed to increase understanding and appreciation of film as an art form and a means of communication.
Introductory Chinese 7/8-- An introductory course of the Chinese Language where students will build oral and written vocabulary, develop conversation skills and learn about the Chinese speaking world.
Technology Investigations 7/8 – This is a student-centered class wherein students use critical thinking and problem solving skills. Students will use a variety of computer programs as well as doing hands-on building. Some of the projects are: creating songs & podcasts, designing 3-D computer models, computer programming, making stop motion videos, and building models.
Medea Creek Electives 2012-2013
(8th Grade)
**Notice some prerequisite differences for 8th graders**
COURSE DESCRIPTIONS Yearlong Classes (Select one)
Beginning Band 7/8 – This is a class for students who are interested in learning to play a musical instrument. Students may select from flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba or percussion. NO previous experience is necessary to enroll. There are a limited number of school instruments available.
Intermediate Band 7/8-- Prerequisite: Teacher approval. This course is open to those students who have successfully completed Beginning Band. This class includes one mandatory evening concert per semester.
Advanced Band 7/8 – Prerequisite: Teacher approval. This group performs at school, festival, and community concerts. This course is open to those students who have achieved the highest level of proficiency on their instrument and who have a basic knowledge of music fundamentals.
Chorus 7/8 – For all you American Idol fans, this is a performance-oriented elective. Students will learn the fundamentals of music, singing technique and performance etiquette. No previous musical experience is necessary to enroll: Just bring your desire to sing Pop, Broadway and Choral pieces. This class includes one mandatory evening concert per semester.
Spanish I – This class is equivalent to Spanish I at the high school level for Spanish language mastery. Students may progress to Spanish II in 9th grade. Prerequisite: B or better in 7th grade English and math 7, teacher recommendation OR “B” or better in Intro to Spanish.
French I – This class is equivalent to French I at the High School for French language mastery. Students may progress to French II in 9th grade. Prerequisite: B or better in 7th grade English and math 7, , teacher recommendation OR “B” or better in Intro to French.
Chinese I -- This class is equivalent to Chinese I at the High School for Chinese language mastery. Students may progress to Chinese II in 9th grade. Prerequisite: B or better in 7th grade English and math 7, , teacher recommendation OR “B” or better in Intro to Chinese.
ASB 7/8- This class is open to students who have been elected by the student body or appointed through an application process to serve on the Associated Student Body. Students interested in this elective should pick up an application from Mr. White in room C8. Students will be placed into this class upon acceptance, so students should list another first choice elective.
Semester Classes (Select two)
Intro to Art 7/8 -- This class is for students who have NOT taken Art at MCMS before. Students will be introduced to the elements and principles of design through art experiences using a variety of media & techniques. Each student will create a personal portfolio of work. Additional supplies may be involved.
Art II 7/8 -- Prerequisite: Intro to Art or Art 6. A further exploration into the elements and principles of design through art experiences using a variety of media & techniques. Students will create individual 2- dimensional and 3-dimensional projects, as well as communal projects. Each student will create a personal portfolio of work. Additional supplies may be involved.
New Media Art 7/8-- Students will be introduced to a variety of graphic arts such as graphic design, computer animation, web design, and 3-D modeling on the computer. Students will learn about the history of each art the related careers.
Art Showcase 7/8 -- Prerequisite: Recommendation from teacher only. With an emphasis on drawing & painting, this is a course for the “serious” art student exploring art history, significant art movements and the influence of art and the artist in society. Projects will be designed to expand skill levels, advance technique and develop individual style. Each student will create a personal portfolio of work and participate in class critiques. Independent sketchbook assignments will be required. Additional supplies may be involved.
Computer Applications 7/8 -- Students will use iMacs to improve and expand their skills in keyboarding, navigating the Internet, Microsoft Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
Beginning Robotics 7/8--This class is an introduction to the LEGO Mindstorms NXT Robotics System. Students practice mechanical design, construction, programming & teamwork skills. In pairs, using LEGO building elements, motors & sensors, students build different robots & program them with a computer to move, react & make sounds to solve challenges.
Beginning Computer Programing with Scratch 7/8-- In this class, students will explore how to create games, animations, stories, and art using Scratch, a computer learning tool that teaches programming skills. Students will draw pictures, add sound and movement, and share their projects with the class. Students with Scratch experience will be able to create more advanced programs.
Teen Entrepreneur 7/8 -- Students will learn about entrepreneurship and they will create a company of their choice. In running their company, they will further their skills in using the Internet, word processing, creating spreadsheets, and designing slideshow presentations. Students will market their company by creating publications, advertisements, videos, and a website.
Solutions for a Greener Future 7/8-- Students investigate and debate global environmental issues and potential solutions to these issues through hands-‐on projects, labs, and the use of technology that they share with the community.
Mass Media 7/8-- Students will learn skills in digital publishing and yearbook production, broadcast journalism and production, managing school blogs and podcasts. Students will be trained to help in school and community events for technical aspects, advertising, and video production.
Drama 7/8 – This course will teach students the fundamentals of the dramatic arts. Students will learn the different aspects of play production.
Technology Investigations 7/8 – This is a student-centered class wherein students use critical thinking and problem solving skills. Students will use a variety of computer programs as well as doing hands-on building. Some of the projects are: creating songs & podcasts, designing 3-D computer models, computer programming, making stop motion videos, and building models.
Music Technology Lab 7/8- This course explores basic music theory, keyboard musicianship and composition through the use of electronic musical instruments, computers, and a variety of music-making and learning software. Development of note reading, ear-training, listening, keyboard proficiency, and music vocabulary is stressed through exercises and projects. Additionally, students are introduced to the musical uses of digital audio and multimedia.
Introductory French 7/8– An introductory course of the French language where students will build oral and written vocabulary, develop conversation skills, and learn about the culture of the French-speaking world.
Introductory Spanish 7/8 – An introductory course of the Spanish language where students will build oral and written vocabulary, develop conversational skills, and learn about the culture of the Spanish-speaking world.
Introductory Chinese 7/8-- An introductory course of the Chinese language where students will build oral and written vocabulary, develop conversational skills, and learn about the culture of the Chinese-speaking world.
Panther Press 7/8 – Students will study the styles and structures of news reporting and writing and newspaper format. The class will publish Medea Creek’s Panther Press on-line, study advertising techniques, create original advertising campaigns, and analyze/evaluate “truth” in advertising
Dynamic Digital Media 7/8 -- Students will use a variety of programs to create slideshows, songs, podcasts, videos and websites. Some of the programs they will be using are: iPhoto, GarageBand, Keynote and iMovie. Some of the projects will be done individually and others will be done in groups.
Intro to Film 7/8-- This elective course will introduce students to the history of film. This class will cover various types of film, techniques and devices used by filmmakers, and provide an introduction into careers in the film industry. Through movies, students will examine elements of plot, setting, style, and point of view. Class activities include viewing, listening, researching, and analyzing film. Students will also learn how to discuss and write about films critically. This course is designed to increase understanding and appreciation of film as an art form and a means of communication.
