Terman Middle School Electives

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Art 1A

Prerequisite:  None 7th and 8th grade
Semester

Art 1A is a beginning-level course in which students will develop basic skills and an understanding of art-making and creative expression, aesthetic valuation, the historical and cultural context of art, and studio habits of mind. The Elements and Principles of Art and Design serve as a foundation for the class. Assignments will be in a variety of two- and three-dimensional media, including drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and sculpture. The class will touch upon each strand of the California State standards for Art Education.

Art 1B

Prerequisite:  Art 1A 7th and 8th grade
Semester

Art 1B is a class that will be taken by students who have successfully completed Art 1A and wish to continue in art. Students will work to increase their skills and understanding of art-making and creative expression, aesthetic valuation, the historical and cultural context of world art, and studio habits of mind. The Elements and Principles of Art and Design serve as a foundation for the class. Assignments will be in a variety of two- and three-dimensional media, including drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics and sculpture, as well as more challenging materials. Students should be prepared to do work such as sketching outside of class time.

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Computer Applications

Prerequisite:  None 7th and 8th grade
Semester

This computer class elective is a survey course that will offer students an opportunity to explore various software programs as well as improve their keyboarding skills. Students begin by learning how to touch type using Master Key, an excellent typing program. As students practice their typing skills, they will also be introduced to some advanced features of Microsoft Word and PowerPoint. Students will also learn the basics of Microsoft Excel, Adobe PhotoShop, and Macromedia Flash. Flash is used for creating scalable, interactive animation/movies for the Web.

Creative Writing

Prerequisite: None 7th and 8th grade
Semester

In this course, students will have the opportunity to blend reading experiences with writing. Students will write in a variety of genres including poetry, short story, and personal narrative. Students will learn how to make a book, write a short story, and research, write, and illustrate a picture book. Students will be encouraged to write for publication and for contests.

Drama 1A

Prerequisite:  None 7th and 8th grade
Semester

Drama 1A is a beginning theater course that will encourage students to develop communication and performance skills, self-confidence, and the ability to work well with others. Projects include group and solo pantomimes, improvisational scene work, character study, short monologues, writing and performing scenes, and producing scripted scenes. Training in blocking, movement, costuming, properties, stage management and other technical aspects of theater will also be introduced. Very little outside rehearsal time is required. There will be one evening performance for students to present some of their work for families and friends.

Drama 1B

Prerequisite:  Drama 1A 7th and 8th grade
Semester

Drama 1B is an advanced drama study for those motivated students who wish to continue developing their theater skills through more sophisticated and challenging activities and performances. Students may repeat this class if desired, as the curriculum will change each semester depending on enrollment and class experiences, but will always include frequent opportunities for classroom performance and a final production for the school community as well as family and friends. Some after-school rehearsals will be required.

Coursework may include mime, storytelling, audition monologues, improvisation and theatre sports, the production of short plays, Shakespearean scene-work, student-directed one acts, advanced scene study and character analysis, short student written and directed video pieces, and mask work. "Backstage" training may include: directing, costume, stage and make-up design, choreography and stage movement, stage management, and other technical aspects of theater. Field trips and/or guest speakers will enhance the students' experience.

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Explorations in Technology 1A

Prerequisite:  None 7th and 8th grade
Semester

In this course students will be exposed to aspects of a working in a technical environment. Students will be given design challenges in which they will design a product that will solve the challenge. They will then draw the solution using either traditional drafting techniques or by appropriate computer software. They complete the process by building a prototype of their solution. Students will also have the opportunity to explore some different technology modules such as plastics, metals, and electronics.

Explorations in Technology 1B

Prerequisite:  Explorations in Tech 1A 7th and 8th grade
Semester

This course contains more advanced challenges with projects in drafting, civil and mechanical engineering. Projects may involve electric vehicles, robotics, and flight technology.

Home Economics 1A and 1B (Family and Consumer Sciences)

Prerequisite:  None 7th and 8th grade
Semester

This practical course utilizes fun, hands-on activities covering many areas of consumer and homemaking education. Students will explore areas such as personal development, budgeting, managing personal space, foods and nutrition, consumer education, child development, and practical sewing skills. Students will be given the opportunity to develop leadership and dynamic living skills in this project-oriented class. Curriculum will be different in 1A and 1B so that a student may take the course in consecutive semesters and not repeat the same material.

Journalism and Newspaper Production

Prerequisite:  None 7th and 8th grade
Semester

Students will begin to learn the classic writing styles of modern journalism–news, features, and editorials. Students will also learn page layout and basic photography, and will explore the ethical issues involved in journalism. Students are expected to work both independently and as a staff, meet weekly deadlines, and maintain high journalistic standards. The class produces a school newspaper. As a result, this course requires a great deal of work outside of class time.

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Leadership

Prerequisite:  Application Required 8th grade
Semester

The Leadership class is designed to provide students the opportunity to help create and organize student activities. Students will be expected to spend time beyond the class period and outside the school day to perform these activities.

Leadership students will analyze important leadership skills throughout the semester. Students will practice organization and planning skills as they chair committee meetings and organize activities. They will examine group dynamics and gain skills in time and stress management, activity planning, public speaking, and self-awareness.

Leadership students will complete a research paper and an oral presentation on an outstanding national or international leader.

Math Workshop

Prerequisite:  None 7th and 8th grade
Semester

This class is strongly recommended for students who are performing below grade level in math. In a relaxed, supportive environment with no more than 15-18 students and a math teacher who is familiar with their respective grade level program, students will take part in engaging activities intended to meet their individual math needs. Through individual and small group tutoring, organizational help, games, and computer programs, students will learn how to succeed in math.

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Media Studies

Prerequisite: None - 7th and 8th grade
Semester

Students will investigate techniques of video production from pre production - planning, to production - videotaping, and post production - editing. Students will learn the grammar of film production and the power of the media through journalism as they study different areas of filmmaking including PSA’s (Public Service Announcements), commercials, news segments, and magazine format stories and documentaries. There will be hands on training in video production skills including scripting, shot set up, interview techniques, lightening, sound, music, and editing.  The fundamentals and safety of operating a camcorder, tripod, and editing equipment will be stressed.  The course will culminate in an exhibition of original student video projects. This course is a prerequisite for Video Journalism.

Music

Band

7th and 8th grade
One Year Elective

Concert Band and Symphonic Band are composed of students who have previously studied a woodwind, brass, or percussion instrument. Both of the bands perform at formal concerts, the May Fete parade, and travel to the elementary schools to perform assembly programs. Other music concerts and activities are available during the year. Small ensemble experiences are encouraged for all students.

Placement in the appropriate band will be made by the middle school band directors based on such criteria as: recommendation of the 6th grade music teacher, audition by middle school teachers, and the instrument the student plays.

In both Concert and Symphonic Band students will expand their knowledge and skills of basic music fundamentals, such as key signatures, rhythm patterns, and tone quality. Music studied will be drawn from various periods and cultures reflecting our global heritage. By the end of the year, students will become acquainted with classical, popular, rock, and jazz music.

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Choir

7th and 8th grade
One Year or Semester

This class is for students who love to sing!  Choir students will develop and improve their voices, learn to read music, and perform together in a cooperative, supportive environment. The choir will perform a wide variety of choral music, including classical, multi-cultural, popular, jazz, and Broadway. There will be opportunities for solo and ensemble singing for those who are interested. The choir will perform in concerts, elementary school tours, and other events in the community.

Orchestra


7th and 8th grade
One Year Elective   

The orchestra is designed to further the string student's ability with emphasis on note reading, fingering, bowing, and rhythm. Much attention is given to intonation, playing with expression, and the reading and learning of as much music literature as possible. Important goals are improved sight-reading, playing skills and playing techniques.

Public Speaking and Debate

Prerequisite:  None | 7th and 8th grade
Semester

Students will learn how to organize and present all types of speeches and how to persuasively argue both sides of a controversy. Class activities will include impromptu speaking, demonstration speeches, storytelling and debates. Students who wish to compete may participate in speech contests.

Reading Workshop: 7th and 8th grade

Year or Semester

This class is strongly recommended for students who are challenged by reading. The purpose of the class is to develop and reinforce reading skills and confidence. Vocabulary development and comprehension skills will be emphasized. The class is designed to support reading across the curriculum. Class sizes will be limited.

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School Service

Prerequisite:  Application Required: 7th and 8th grade
Semester

Students in School Service work in the school offices, in the library, or serve as department or teacher assistants. School Service students must be reliable and able to work with a minimum of supervision.

An application, available in the office, is required and is due at the same time as the elective sign-up sheet

Staying On Top/Study Skills

7th and 8th grade
Year or Semester

This class is strongly recommended for any 7th or 8th grade student who needs help staying organized and completing homework assignments. Placement is based on counselor and teacher recommendation. This class is designed to help struggling learners. Some of the skills taught are time management, organization, task completion, comprehension strategies, test-taking strategies, and self-advocacy skills. Class size will be limited.

Student Activities

Prerequisite: None - 7th and 8th grade
Semester

In this elective, students learn how to design and run a business by operating Terman's student-run store, The Closet.  Topics covered include creating a mission statement; designing, administering and tallying marketing surveys; finding suppliers and ordering products; pricing products and adding sales tax; using effective advertising techniques; operating and programming an electronic cash register; counting the day's receipts and balancing to sales totals; taking inventory; writing business letters; learning principles of good customer relations; and using Excel spreadsheets to track sales and financial data.  Students will prepare a resume, with cover letter and a portfolio of work for their final project.  The class also handles the finances for other student events such as the magazine drive and dances.
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Video Journalism

Prerequisite:  Media Studies - 7th and 8th grade
Semester

This is an intensive laboratory course in gathering, writing and producing news for a daily broadcast. Students will learn radio and television production techniques; at the end of each semester, students will produce up to a 15-minute newsmagazine that showcases their reporting, editing, and production skills. Operation of broadcast newsrooms, ethics in broadcast journalism, interviewing techniques, and media criticism will also be examined in the course. Since this course is designed to allow students to go into the field to develop their own reports on local stories of significance and do their own production work (recording, editing, etc.) a significant “after hours” commitment is required.
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Web Design

Prerequisite:  Computer Applications or permission of instructor
7th and 8th grade
Semester

In this computer elective, students will learn to code in html by creating their own five-page web site. History of the web, terminology, and web design principles will be important aspects of this course. Along with html, students will be introduced to Macromedia Dreamweaver, a professional visual editor for creating and managing Web sites and pages. A basic introduction to Flash will enable students to create web site navigation controls. Students will also create an educational web site for a teacher, club, or unit of study as part of their final project.

World Languages: French, German, Japanese, Spanish


7th or 8th grade
One Year Elective

French 1A
French 1B
German 1A
Japanese 1A
 
Spanish 1A
Spanish 1B
Spanish for Spanish Speakers 1

Four languages are currently available to students – French, German, Japanese, and Spanish. The number of students enrolled will determine whether the class ultimately will be available. With a pre-enrollment of at least 24 students, beginning language courses (the 1A series) will be offered. As soon as course requests are tallied, students will be notified in the event the language they have requested will not be taught at their school of attendance.

Each foreign language course develops self-confidence through the study of a second language and fosters an appreciation for that language and its culture. In selecting a foreign language, students should be guided primarily by their own interests. Capable students who wish to study more than one language at a time may do so. Homework in foreign language classes is given daily.

Seventh graders enroll in the course numbered 1A. In the 8th grade, they continue with the course numbered 1B. This two-year sequence in middle school is equivalent to the first year of high school study. Beginning language classes are not offered in grade eight, but students may begin language study in grade nine. The district guarantees a sequence of three levels in each language. However, the district does not guarantee offering all languages at any of the three middle schools or both high schools.

General Course Descriptions

Students of French, German, Japanese*, and Spanish will develop growing proficiency in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing, and gain understanding of the structure of the language appropriate to the level of instruction. They will also gain a familiarity with and appreciation of the culture of the linguistic community.

* NOTE: The Japanese writing systems (Hiragana and Katakana) are introduced gradually during the first year course and Kanji (Chinese characters) throughout each year.

Spanish for Spanish Speakers 1 is designed for students who are native speakers of Spanish and is composed of 7th and 8th graders. It is to give students knowledge and appreciation of Spanish-American culture and thereby to increase their self-esteem. They will learn to distinguish and value the difference between colloquial and academic language. They will perfect their writing as well as their speaking ability in Spanish. Placement at the high school for 8th graders into Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2 is determined by the teacher. A grade of “C” is generally necessary to advance to the next level.

The Standards for World Language Learning – The Five C's

In all of the foreign language classes teachers incorporate into the course work the national standards for foreign language learning. These standards overlap each other in instruction and help make foreign language learning relevant and meaningful. The five standards are:

Communication: Communicate in Languages Other than English

    1. Interpersonal Communication - Students engage in conversations, provide and obtain information, express feelings and emotions, and exchange opinions.
    2. Interpretive Communication - Students understand and interpret written and spoken language on a variety of topics.
    3. Presentational Communication - Students present information, concepts, and ideas to an audience of listeners or readers on a variety of topics.

Cultures: Gain knowledge and Understanding of Other Cultures

    1. Practice of Culture - Students demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between the practices and perspectives of the cultures studied.
    2. Products of Culture - Students demonstrate an understanding of the relationships between the products and perspectives of the cultures studied.

Connections: Connect with Other Disciplines and Acquire Information

    1. Furthering Connections - Students reinforce and further their knowledge of other disciplines through the foreign language.
    2. Acquiring Information - Students acquire information and recognize the distinctive viewpoints that are only available through the foreign language and its culture.

Comparisons: Develop Insight into the Nature of Language and Culture

    1. Language Comparisons - Students demonstrate understanding of the nature of language through comparisons of the language studied and their own.
    2. Cultural Comparisons - Students demonstrate understanding of the concept of culture through comparisons of the culture studied and their own.

Communities: Participating in Multilingual Communities at Home and Around the World

    1. School and Community - Students use the language both within and beyond the school setting.
Life-long Learning - Students show evidence of becoming life-long learners by using the language for personal enjoyment and enrichment.


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