Dr. Frank Doudna, Principal Mr. Lee Raines, Assistant Principal Mrs. Marilyn Dodrill, School Counselor Website: www.alexanderschools.org 1
Welcome! Dear Parents and Students, Sixth, Seventh and Eighth grade students are offered a variety of courses and programs to meet their academic needs. Please take the time to review our course selection booklet for the 2016-17 school year. This information is intended to provide an advance planning opportunity for junior high students and their parents. Our goal is to create the optimal schedule for your child. A student s work in junior high school lays the foundation for a successful high school experience. Past teacher recommendations are used as well as class performance and state-wide assessment scores to determine the best academic placement for each student. If you have any questions regarding the recommended course selections, please feel free to contact Mrs. Marilyn Dodrill at 740-698-8831. Alexander Local School District embraces quality education as its highest priority and seeks to provide students with experiences that promote respect, responsibility and the necessary skills to become productive citizens who engage in life-long learning. Go Spartans! Schedule Changes General Scheduling Information 1. Class or schedule changes can only be made during the first 2 weeks of a semester 2. Band may be added to or dropped at the beginning of each semester 2
TABLE OF CONTENTS Page Welcome 2 General Information for Students and Parents 4 Common Questions 5 Junior High School Courses of Study 6 Career/College Readiness 6 6 th Grade Core Course Descriptions English 7 th Grade Core Course Descriptions 7 English Math Science Social Studies 8 th Grade Core Course Descriptions 9 English Math Science Social Studies Electives 11 Individual Education Plan (IEP) Courses 13 Intervention (Support) Classes 13 3
A student s work in junior high school lays the foundation for a successful high school experience. The following pages are meant to help parents and students understand the requirements and opportunities available through Alexander Junior High School. It is intended that this information will provide an advance planning opportunity for junior high school students and their parents. The junior high school years, grades 6/7/8, are a unique period. Students undergo rapid and profound developmental changes during this time. As a result, middle schools have the challenge of addressing both the educational and social needs of young adolescents. It is the goal of Alexander Junior High School to embrace this challenge in meeting the needs of all junior high school students. Alexander Junior High School offers instructional programs designed to meet the needs of individual students, as they teach and reinforce skills necessary for junior high school success and prepare students for future high school study. Students are afforded opportunities for enrichment and acceleration, as well as for intervention and academic support, if necessary. A successful junior high school experience provides students with academic skills and knowledge, along with an understanding of the importance of responsibility, organization, time management, and effort. Junior high school serves as a bridge to the future. The purpose of this Junior High School Course Catalog is to inform parents and students about the various courses currently offered at the junior high school level. It is intended that students and parents review this catalog together and make informed decisions about students course requests. Please contact the school counselor if you need assistance during the scheduling process. 4
Common Questions regarding Junior High: Is it important for parents to be involved during junior high school? YES! Parent involvement in their child s education is more important in junior high school than ever. When parents are actively involved in their student s education, students do better in junior high. When parents become involved, both students and school benefit: grades and test results are higher; students attitudes and behavior are more positive; academic programs are more successful; and schools, as a whole, are more effective. Even if your child says he/she doesn t want you to be involved, stay involved! What can parents do to prepare students for junior high school? 1. Ask to see homework. Ask daily to see what kinds of activities are assigned for homework. By seventh grade, students are required to do homework daily. If your student says that he/she does not have any homework, check with the teacher. 2. Help develop a routine for homework. Students show that if they follow a routine and parents expect their students to do their homework before they can watch television or play video games, etc. students are generally more successful in school. 3. Ask about your child s assignments and grades. When they go to junior high school, students are required to write down their assignments and homework either in their binder, student agenda, or assignment record sheet. Parents are encouraged to check assignments and grades through the Infinite Campus Portal (Parent Assist). 4. Communicate with the school staff. There are multiple ways for parents to communicate with their child s teachers and school. All teachers can be contacted through e-mail, phone or the Infinite Campus Portal. Many misunderstandings can be resolved quickly if there is strong and clear communication between the school and home. 5. Encourage your child to read and write. One of the best ways for a student to become a better reader and writer is to practice. Just as an athlete gets better with practice, so does a student become a better reader and writer with practice. Regular reading enhances a student s vocabulary. Vocabulary development is key to academic success in high school and entry into college. 6. Infinite Campus Portal Account: Students are required to create their own personal Infinite Campus Portal Account to be used at school. Parents are encouraged to create their own account so they can see their student s academic progress and communicate with teachers. Information will be given out at the beginning of the school year. 5
Junior High School Courses of Study English/ Language Arts 6 th Grade 7 th Grade 8 th Grade English - 6 English/Language Arts 7 **Honors English/Language Arts 7English/Language Arts 7 Intervention One course listed above must be completed English/Language Arts 8 **Honors English/Language Arts 8 English/Language Arts 8 Intervention One course listed above must be completed Mathematics Math - 6 7 Math 7 Math with Support (Intervention) **7 Honors Pre-Algebra One course listed above must be completed Science Science - 6 7 Science **7 Honors Science 8 Pre-Algebra with Support (Intervention) 8 Pre-Algebra **Honors Algebra I (High School Credit) One course listed above must be completed 8 Science **8 Honors Science Social Studies Social Studies - 6 7 Social Studies 8 Social Studies Electives Students are encouraged to take at least 1 (one) semester of each elective during their 7 th /8 th grade Art Band Life Skills Music Physical Education Computer Technology Art (1 semester) Band (Year Long) Life Skills (1 semester) Music (1 semester) Chorus (1 semester) Physical Education (1 semester) Computer Technology (1 semester) **See pre-requisites for these classes in the Core Courses Descriptions Art (1 semester) Band (Year Long) **Foreign Language (High School Credit) Life Skills (1 semester) Music (1 semester) Chorus (1 semester) Physical Education (1 semester) Computer Technology (1 semester) 6
Career and College Readiness in Junior High School Promote strong organizational and study habits Practice independent living skills Learn and practice informed decision making skills Learn to monitor personal behavior Participate in career exploration through activities/classes and annual Career and College Readiness Day Begin taking higher level courses Tri-County Career Center presentation and visit (8 th Grade) EXPLORE Assessment (8 th Grade) identifies college readiness and vocational interests Core Courses Descriptions 6 English (ELA) 7 6 th Grade English Language Arts Aligned with the 6th grade Ohio Academic Content Standards, this English/Language Arts course balances writing, reading, listening, speaking, and language skills. Through classic short stories, novels, and supplemental media this course will teach essential comprehension skills and strategies that allow students to move from basic comprehension of a text to more evaluative and analysis of the material. Students will build on skills from previous years to make meaning of longer, more challenging texts, both fictional and informational. There is an emphasis on vocabulary through context clues and word analysis, citing evidence from text to support ideas, and learning to work together in a supportive academic community. Students will also learn the basic research process, write informative and argumentative essays, and produce a variety of shorter pieces of writing. 6 Honors English: (6HELA) This advanced course is still aligned with the 6th grade Ohio Academic Content Standards and is intended to challenge students to higher levels of analyzing and critical thinking with more complex texts. Students will be expected to respond to more advanced materials in comprehension, discussion, and written work. Students will also learn the basic research process, write informative and argumentative essays, and produce a variety of shorter pieces of writing. This class will proceed at a faster pace than the traditional 6th grade class and holds students to a higher level of independence. Ideally, students in the Honors ELA class should have a love of reading and a desire to challenge themselves. Prerequisite: Scored above grade level on the 5th grade Reading portion of Ohio State Test. Students have maintained an A or B each nine weeks in 5th grade English, teacher recommendation, and demonstrated a good work ethic and good attendance.
6 Math (6MATH) 6 th Math In sixth grade math, students will be taking their first steps into the world of Algebra. Students will begin using variables in place of unknown numbers and use these variables to solve simple algebraic equations and expressions. Along with algebra, we also dive into calculations with fractions and decimals. By the end of the sixth grade, students will be able to easily manipulate fractions, decimals and percents. Students should also be able to set up simple proportions in order to calculate real-world problems. Lastly, students will go further into their understanding of geometry. We will take a look at how to classify polygons along with how to find the area and surface area of two-dimensional and three-dimensional figures. 6 th Science 6 th Social Studies 7 English/Language Arts 7 English (7ELA): This novel-based course is aligned with the 7 th grade Ohio Academic Content Standards and is recommended for most 7 th grade students. The course is designed to help students strengthen and improve their reading comprehension and writing skills. An emphasis is placed on literary elements, building vocabulary, study skills, organization and reading a variety of genres including non-fiction, poetry and novels. Students will also hone their writing and research skills through various creative and non-fiction writing assignments. 7 Honors English (7HELA): This advanced course is aligned with the 7 th grade Ohio Academic Content Standards and is intended to challenge students to higher levels of analyzing and critical thinking in regards to a variety reading material. Students will be expected to express themselves in writing in a way which exceeds the expectations of a regular 7 th grade classroom. Students will also be required to complete more independent and out of class work, as well as, read more difficult novels, non-fiction and supplemental materials in conjunction with each unit throughout the year. Prerequisite: Scored above grade level on the Ohio State Reading Assessment. Students have maintained an A or B each nine weeks in 6 th grade English, teacher recommendation, and demonstrated a good work ethic and good attendance. 7 Math (7MATH): 7 Mathematics 8
Seventh grade math is aligned to the Ohio Mathematics Content Standards. This course is designed to use previous mathematic content knowledge which will be reinforced while focusing on the 7th grade math indicators. This course is very structured and requires students to work hard. 7 Honors Pre-Algebra (7HPREA): This is an advanced course for 7 th grade students who are ready to investigate the concepts of Algebra. The course is aligned with the Ohio Mathematical Content Standards for the 7th grade with a mix of Algebra preparation as well. Students will learn to solve multiple step equations that they will expand upon once they reach the Algebra level. Students will work with statistical data, compute probability and permutations and other arithmetic skills essential to a successful high school academic career. Prerequisite: Ohio State Math Assessment scores are above grade level, consistent A/B range in 6 th grade math and teacher recommendation Required materials: Scientific calculator 7 Science (7SCI): Science Students learn to describe interactions of matter and energy throughout the lithosphere, hydrosphere and atmosphere. They continue to develop skills of scientific inquiry, explain how matter can change forms and describe how energy is potential or kinetic and takes many forms. Students apply math skills to evaluate and analyze variables and data from investigations as they draw conclusions from scientific evidence. Students access knowledge to explain how energy the ecosystem, such as sunlight, supports the life of organisms through photosynthesis and the transfer of energy through the interactions of organisms and the environment. 7 Honors Science (7HSCI): Students interested in this class must have a desire to learn more about the 7 th grade Ohio Science Academic Standards on an independent level. Prerequisite: Students in the honors level must show interest in the subject, ability to think deeply and willingness to be independent learners. Students need to have an average of 85% or better in 6 th grade science, 5th grade Ohio State Science Assessment scores are considered and teacher recommendation. Social Studies 7 Social Studies (7SOC): World Studies from 750 BCE to 1600 CE: Ancient Greece to the First Global Age Students learn the enduring impact of early civilizations including the culture of people, economic conditions and governmental systems. The class explores how historical events shape the decisions and actions of today s citizens. 9
8 English (Language Arts) 8 English (8ELA): English (Language Arts) 8 is a course fully aligned with the Ohio Academic Content Standards. This course is designed for students currently working on or slightly above grade level as determined by OAA scores and teacher recommendation. Students are instructed using whole literature. Students are required to read four assigned novels, one nonfiction book of poetry and a classic short story during the school year. Students will also complete a research project along with various short writing projects. There is a focus on learning and applying Greek and Latin root words to improve vocabulary. This course provides time for guided practice within the classroom and a reasonable amount of work to be completed outside of class. 8 Honors English (8HELA): English (Language Arts) 8 Honors is a course fully aligned with the Ohio Academic Content Standards. This course is designed for students currently working well above grade level as determined by OAA scores and teacher recommendation. Students are instructed using whole literature. Students are required to read two assigned novels, one classic piece of fictional literature, one nonfiction book of poetry, one nonfiction survival tale and a classic short story during the school year. Students will also complete a research project along with various short writing projects. There is also a focus on learning and applying Greek and Latin root words to improve vocabulary. Students in this course are expected to be independent learners who have already mastered basic skills. Students will read more challenging literature and the course will move at a more demanding pace. Prerequisite: In 7 th grade students must have scored above grade level on the Ohio State Reading Assessment, maintained an A/ B each nine weeks in English and have teacher recommendation. Students grades must stay in the A/B range to remain in the class, show an aptitude for English, and have a good work ethic and good attendance. 8 Mathematics 8 Pre-Algebra (8PREA): What was once seen as an advanced course for 8th grade students has now become the standard for 8th grade mathematics in the state of Ohio. This course is aligned with the Ohio Mathematical Content Standards for the 8th grade with a mix of Algebra preparation as well. Students will learn to solve multiple step equations that they will expand upon once they reach 10
the Algebra I level. Students will work with statistical data, compute probability and permutations and other arithmetic skills essential to a successful high school academic career. #1860 Honors Algebra I (5.0 Scale) This course provides a more rigorous treatment of the topics outlined in Algebra I with less review at an advanced pace. More emphasis will be given to techniques for solving quadratic equations, radicals, and exponents. The course also offers a more rigorous approach to problem solving through a variety of word problem applications. NOTE: This is a high school level course. High school credit will be awarded for successful completion and the final grade will count toward high school GPA. Credit and GPA for this course will appear on your student s high school transcript. Prerequisite: 85% in Pre-Algebra, teacher permission, accelerated or advanced score on 7 th Grade Ohio State Math Assessment. Required Material: Scientific calculator Science 8 Science (8SCI): Eighth Grade Science will explore topics in Life, Earth/Space and Physical Science. Students will extend their knowledge of heredity and how it influences Evolutionary Theory. Students will also explore the theory of Plate Tectonics, and other processes shape the Earth s surface. In our largest unit, students will explore the Universe and its motions, contents, and forces. Class time will be used for independent work and group projects. 8 Honors Science (8HSCI): Eighth Grade Science will explore topics in Life, Earth/Space and Physical Science. Students will extend their knowledge of heredity and how it influences Evolutionary Theory. Students will also explore and analyze the theory of Plate Tectonics, and other processes shape the Earth s surface. In our largest unit, students will explore the Universe and its motions, contents, and forces. Class time will be used for projects and inquiry driven learning. More independent work will be assigned as homework. Prerequisite: Students enrolling in this class need to exhibit critical thinking skills, and a desire to gain new ideas and scientific knowledge. They must exhibit dedication to their work and to Science as a 11
discipline. Students must be able to analyze data objectively and use scientific evidence to draw conclusions. 7 th grade Science final grade is 85% or better. Social Studies 8 Social Studies (8SOC): American History Colonization through Reconstruction American History is fully aligned with the Ohio Social Studies Academic Content Standards. In this course, 8 th grade students will conduct an in-depth study of the early years of our country, from the first colonies, through the American Revolution and westward expansion, to the Civil War and Reconstruction. As students study a historical period, they will also look at its geographic settings, economic implications, developments in government and the role of citizens in the American democracy. Electives 6 th Grade Electives: All 6 th grade students will take a seven (7) week rotation of: Art, Music, Life Skills, Technology and Physical Education. Band students will meet 3 days a week, the other days the students will be in one of the other electives. 7/8 Art: Art is a project based class. Projects will include drawing, painting and sculpture as well as some craft projects. Art history will be used to introduce projects; at least one project will be related to a topic in social studies. The emphasis in Art will be on developing skills in drawing, painting and sculpture through learning techniques and practicing skills. 7/8 BandA/B: The 7th and 8th Grade Band is designed for advancing students that have mastered the basic skills taught and reinforced in 6th Grade Beginning Band. 7th and 8 th Grade Band continues to reinforce the student musician s earlier band experience, while introducing them to a wide scope of new techniques, skills and overall musical knowledge. This includes increasing the note range on their instrument, new key signatures and time signatures, new theory and terminology, expanded rhythmic and melodic concepts, etc. Emphasis is placed on ensemble techniques, including intonation, balance and blend. There will be a quarterly performance. 12
Life Skills (7LS or 8LS): Life Skills provides students with tools and skills which will help them become more aware, confident, independent, and self-reliant. The class is to help students develop and strengthen their skills in communication, problem solving, independent thinking, and decision making. Students will learn the importance of each body system and its relation to diet and exercise. Topics including healthy relationships, financial literacy, character, nutrition, physical activity, mental/emotional health, and drugs will be covered to pose scenarios in the decision making process. The goal of this class is to help students make healthy and balanced decisions so they can become a productive member of our society. Students are required to take one (1) semester each year. French I (1710)/ Spanish: (1610) (5.0 Scale) These college preparatory courses will teach students the basics of French/Spanish pronunciation, spelling and grammar. Students will build a foundation for fluent communication by listening, speaking, reading and writing. French/Spanish culture (people, geography, customs, and food) will also be studied. NOTE: This is a high school level course. High school credit will be awarded for successful completion and the final grade will count toward high school GPA. Credit and GPA for this course will appear on your student s high school transcript. Prerequisite: 8 th grade students must have earned an 85% average in their 7 th grade English (language arts) class, received a recommendation from their current English (Language Arts) teacher and be enrolled in the honors level English class. While taking the class, students have certain yearlong expectations including maintaining a minimum grade of at least an A/B range in the course as well as completing nightly homework assignments. 7/8 Music (7/8MUS): Explore the world of music literally. Music is common to all times and all cultures. This semester course encourages students to experience music from different cultures through film, cd, and vocal performance. Students will also translate common musical concepts into real musical skills in the piano keyboard lab. 7/8 Chorus (7/8CHO): The primary focus of chorus is to develop skills to sing correctly and learn the basics of good musicianship through a variety of music. No previous singing experience is required. 7/8 Technology (7/8TECH): This technology course is aligned with the Ohio academic content standards and is designed to help students develop their computer skills. The beginning of the course presents the history and development of computers. Students will use keyboarding software, Type to Learn, regularly to enhance their typing skills. Students will work with Microsoft software: Word, Publisher, Power 13
Point and Excel. Students will also learn techniques to search the Internet effectively. Throughout the course, students will engage in individual as well as small group projects. 7/8 Physical Education (7/8PE): The Physical Education course is designed to align with the Ohio State Standards and get students actively involved in numerous sports and activities. Some activities such as golf and archery are individual in nature. However, the vast majority of sports and games will be team oriented. As students learn proper techniques and rules they will also be cooperating and problem solving as part of a team. Active participation is an absolute requirement for this class. Students will be required to dress appropriately for class (2 personal days per semester) Students will be active participants Students will be good listeners Respect for the instructor and classmates is essential Interaction with peers and enjoyment will be stressed Co-Taught 7th Grade Co-Taught English (7CENG) 7th Grade Co-Taught Math (7CMath) 7th Grade Co-Taught Science (7CSCI) 7th Grade Co-Taught Social Studies (7CSOC) 7th Grade Tutoring (7TUT) Individual Education Plan (IEP) Courses Pull-Out 7 th Grade Pull Out English (7PENG) 7 th Grade Pull Out Math (7PMATH) 7 th Grade Pull Out Science (7PSCI) 7 th Grade Pull Out Social Studies (7PSOC) 8 th Grade Co-Taught English (8CENG) 8 th Grade Pull Out English (8PENG) 8 th Grade Co-Taught Pre-Algebra (8CPREA) 8 th Grade Pull Out Math (8PPREA) 8 th Grade Co-Taught Science (8CSCI) 8 th Grade Pull Out Science (8PSCI) 8 th Grade Co-Taught Social Studies (8CSOC) 8 th Grade Pull Out Social Studies (8PSOC) 8 th Grade Tutoring (8TUT) Intervention Classes Intervention classes are designed for students currently working below grade level as determined by assessment scores and teacher recommendation. Intervention classes are offered in English (Language Arts) and Math classes. Students in these classes are given more time with teachers, allowing for more guided practice within the classroom and class time to complete most assignments. 14
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