Course Descriptions and Information


Main Course Selection Page | Required Courses For Each Grade Year  

Below are all elective courses and their descriptions followed by the required courses and their descriptions currently offered at Elk Ridge. Review these descriptions and check out related videos to decide which courses you would like to request.

Remember you will be choosing more courses than you will actually take so that you get a second choice if the first ends up not working out.

Some of our teachers have made intro video/slides for their courses to give you a peek at what to expect. They are listed with the course descriptions below, but those courses are:

ELECTIVE COURSES OFFERED

Teacher Aide, Counseling Office Aide, Attendance Office Aide or Main Office Aide (available to 9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Students must have at least a 3.0 GPA or higher and no N’s or U’s in citizenship. Students will run notes to classes, will run errands for and assist with projects. This is a semester class.

Ms. Mair’s Peer Tutor Aide (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Students must have at least a  3.0 GPA or higher and no N’s or U’s in citizenship. Peer tutoring provides opportunities for students to work under the direction of a special education teacher to mentor and support academic and social skills for students who have significant learning gaps. This is a semester class.

Math Peer Tutor Aide (available to 8th and 9th grade students. 0.5 credit)– Students must have at least a  3.0 GPA or higher and no N’s or U’s in citizenship. Math Peer tutoring provides opportunities for students to work under the direction of a Math teacher to mentor and support other students. This is a semester class.

Release Time (available to 9th grade students. No school credit)- Seminary. Students will study from the current year curriculum for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints seminary program. Attendance is taken. This is a full year class. 

Girls Choir 1  (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) VIDEO – No audition required. Students who have not taken a full year of choir are in choir 1. Emphasis will be placed on good vocal production, part singing, and music reading skills.  Rehearsals and performances outside of class time are part of the course requirement and will constitute a portion of the grade.  This is a full year class.

Boys Choir 1 (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) VIDEO – No audition required. Students who have not taken a full year of choir are in choir 1. Emphasis will be placed on good vocal production, part singing, and music reading skills.  Rehearsals and performances outside of class time are part of the course requirement and will constitute a portion of the grade.  This is a full year class.

Mixed Choir 2 (available to 8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) –  Audition Required VIDEO – students must have previously taken a full year of choir and know basic music theory. This is a vocal music course which covers three and four-part music and review of singing fundamentals.   This is a full year class.

Concert Choir (available to 8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – Audition Required VIDEO – Advanced vocal music groups designed for  students to sing advanced choral literature and build more techniques in singing.  Rehearsals and performances outside of class time may be part of the course requirements and constitute a portion of the grade. This is a full year class.

Advanced Lady Choir (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Audition Required VIDEO – Advanced vocal music group designed for students to sing advanced choral literature and build more techniques in singing.  Rehearsals and performances outside of class time will be part of the course requirements and will constitute a portion of the grade. This is a semester class. Only offered half of the year.

Advanced Man Choir (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Audition Required VIDEO – Advanced vocal music group designed for students to sing advanced choral literature and build more techniques in singing.  Rehearsals and performances outside of class time will be part of the course requirements and will constitute a portion of the grade. This is a semester class. Only offered half of the year.

Band 1, Woodwinds, Brass, or Percussion Classes (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – INTRO VIDEO (Choose ‘Present’ to view) – Beginning level courses.  No experience needed..  The following instruments are taught:  Flute, Oboe, Bassoon, Clarinet, Saxophone-must begin on clarinet first, Trumpet, French Horn, Trombone, Euphonium, Tuba, Percussion (both mallet and drums, piano experience strongly recommended).  Those interested in saxophone will  start the year off on clarinet.  Half way through the school year those students will switch to saxophone.   Students need to provide their own instrument and book.  The school does own some instruments that may be rented out.  Supplies are provided for those on fee waiver.  These are full year classes.

Percussion Ensemble (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – Instructor approval required – INTRO VIDEO (Choose ‘Present’ to view) – An intermediate to advanced level class.   Class is for students who already have experience playing percussion including  drums, mallet keyboard instruments and other percussion related instruments.  Practice outside of class time and performances are part of this course.  Instrument required. This is a full year class.

Concert Band (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – Instructor approval required- An intermediate-level band class.  INTRO VIDEO (Choose ‘Present’ to view) – Rehearsals and performances outside of class time are part of the course requirement and will constitute a portion of the grade. Instrument required.  This is a full year class.

Symphonic Band (available to 8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – Instructor approval required – And advanced level band class.  INTRO VIDEO (Choose ‘Present’ to view) – Attendance is required at all rehearsals and performances.  Rehearsals and performances outside of class are part of the course requirement and constitute a portion of the grade. Practice outside of class time with an instrument is required. This is a full year class.

Orchestra 1 (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – INTRO SLIDES – No experience necessary.  This class is for students who would  like to learn to play a violin, viola, cello, or string bass.  25 minute daily practice required.  Instrument required. For students who have played for 1 full calendar year or less.  This is a full year class.

Orchestra 2 (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – Prerequisite:  Instructor approval (Audition and/or interview possible) – INTRO SLIDES – This is an intermediate-level orchestra class focusing on intermediate-level literature for orchestra.  Rehearsals and performances outside of class time are part of the course requirements and will constitute a portion of the grade.  Practice  outside of class time with an instrument is required.  If available, a viola, a cello, or a string bass may be rented from the school for a nominal fee. This is a full year class.

Orchestra 3 (available to 8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – Prerequisite: Instructor approval (Audition and/or interview possible) – INTRO SLIDES –  This is an orchestra class focusing on advanced-level literature for orchestra.  Rehearsals and performances outside of class time are part of the course requirement and will constitute a portion of the grade.  Practice outside of class time with an instrument is required. This is a full year class.

Art Foundations 1 (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – INTRO SLIDES – This class is an exploratory course that will cover the basics of art.  Students will participate in opportunities to make art and learn studio habits.  Students will work with a variety of art making materials to build a strong foundation of knowledge they can use in higher level classes.  There are no prerequisites for this class, but this class is a prerequisite to other art classes.  Fee may apply. This is a semester class.

Art Foundations 2 (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Prerequisite:  Art Foundation 1. – INTRO SLIDES – This class reviews and builds on the concepts learned in Foundations 1.  More advanced concepts in creating works of art will be taught with an emphasis on composition. Students get creative with how they make their art and build their own style within the art mediums. Fee may apply. This is a semester class.

Ceramics 1 (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Prerequisite: Art Foundations 2. INTRO SLIDES – Ceramics develops basic skills in the creation of 3-D forms and pottery from clay.  Fee may apply. This is a semester class. 

Ceramics 2 (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit)– Prerequisite: Ceramics 1. INTRO SLIDES – builds on from the basics learned in Ceramics 1. Projects will use more advanced skills, techniques, and concepts including using the pottery wheel. Fee may apply. This is a semester class.

Drawing 1 (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Prerequisite: Art Foundations 2. INTRO SLIDES – This class focuses on creative and realistic drawings:  rendering from life, pictures, masterworks, and imagination.  With an emphasis on studio production, this course is designed to develop higher level thinking and art-related technology skills. Fee may apply. This is a semester class.

Drawing 2 (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) -Prerequisite: Drawing 1 – INTRO SLIDES – This studio focused class focuses on rendering realistic and creative drawings: still life, real life, and sketchbook development.  Working larger with different materials is what students will work on in the studio. This higher level class builds on ideas/concepts from Drawing 1, advancing prior skills and knowledge.  Fee may apply. This is a semester class.

Painting 1 (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit)  – Prerequisite: Art Foundations 2. INTRO SLIDES – Painting 1 is a beginning level 1 class learning studio habits and the basics of painting.  This class focuses on the rendering of value, color theory, and craftsmanship. Acrylic, Watercolor and Tempera. Fee may apply. This is a semester class.

Exploring Theatre (available to 7th grade students. 0.5 credit) –This introductory course welcomes students to the world of theater with a focus on performance. No previous experience is necessary. Students will explore topics such as “What is Theater?”, improvisation, movement, radio drama, and an introduction to technical theater. This is a semester-long class designed to spark interest and build foundational skills.

Beginning Theatre (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) –Designed for 8th and 9th graders, this introductory course emphasizes performance and requires no prior experience. Students will study theater basics, voice, movement, improvisation, monologues, theater history, and scene work. This semester-long class lays the groundwork for more advanced theater exploration.

Theater Company (8th/9th Grade, 0.5 Credit)
Building on skills from Exploring or Beginning Theater, this class offers advanced acting exploration. Students will delve into character development, storytelling, and Shakespeare, culminating in the performance of a one-act play. This semester-long course enhances skills and provides a deeper understanding of dramatic arts.

Stage Technology – Design (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Open to 7th, 8th, and 9th graders, this course covers the technical design aspects of theater. It serves as an introduction to technical theater and is a prerequisite for joining the Stage Tech Crew. Students will learn about lighting, sound, props, costumes, makeup, and technical design phases. A class fee applies, and this is a semester-long course.

Stage Tech Crew (8th/9th Grade, 1.0 Credit)
For those ready to bring theater productions to life, this exclusive year-long class is limited to 15 students, ensuring personalized attention. Participants will engage in all aspects of stage tech, including lights, sound, set design, props, and costumes. Involvement includes working on technical aspects of musicals, concerts, talent shows, and more. Maintaining good grades and parental support are required, alongside a commitment to after-school and event responsibilities.

Musical Theatre (available to 8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – Audition Required –For students passionate about singing, dancing, and acting, this advanced year-long class offers comprehensive musical theater education. Participants will engage in character development, blocking, technical design, auditioning, monologues, voice techniques, dance performance, and career preparation. Students will perform in showcases and musicals throughout the year and attend competitions. Enrollment requires an audition for actors or an application/teacher approval for technicians. A class fee applies.

Spanish 1– (available all grade students. 1.0 credit) This course is designed to teach elementary skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The curriculum covered in this course will give students the skills to communicate in culturally-appropriate ways in the target language.  By the end of this course, student skill level should be at novice-mid level according to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL) standards. This is a year-long class.

Spanish 2 – (available to 8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit)This course is designed to teach elementary skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The curriculum covered in this course will give students the skills to communicate in culturally-appropriate ways in the target language.  By the end of this course, student skill level should be at novice-high level according to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL) standards. This is a full year class.

Spanish 3H – (available to 9th grade students. 1.0 credit) Prerequisite: Spanish 2. This course is designed to teach advanced skills in listening, speaking, reading, and spelling. The curriculum covered in this course will give students the skills to communicate in culturally-appropriate ways in the target language. By the end of this course, student skill level should be at intermediate-low level according to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Language (ACTFL) standards.

Spanish DLI Culture and Media (available to 7-9th grade DLI students. 0.5 credit per semester) – These courses are only for students who have completed an elementary school Dual Language Immersion program. They are specifically designed to build skills in cultural-linguistic competencies necessary for successful communication with native speakers. Students utilize media and authentic texts to learn about the diverse cultural products, practices, and perspectives of countries. These are each semester long classes and rotate through four different courses – two each year in 7th and 8th grade.

  • Part A  – In this course, students will compare and contrast individual and collective perspectives about the structures that constitute a society by looking at pre-Columbian civilizations (before 1491).
  • Part B  – In this course, students will compare and contrast individual and collective perspectives about discovery, change, oppression and consequences by studying the historical period of Spanish Discovery and Conquest of the Americas (1492-1779).
  • Part C  – In this course, students will compare and contrast individual and collective perspectives about independence, freedom and change by studying the Independence movements of the Hispanic world (1780-1830).
  • Part D  – In this course, students will compare and contrast individual and collective perspectives about globalization and technology by studying the effects of the industrial revolution on the Spanish speaking world (1830-present).

The Culture and Media course is optional per the state DLI office. The district recommends students complete 3 semesters during their time in DLI in middle school.

Reading for Fun (available to 7th/8th grade students. 0.5 credit) – VIDEO INTRO – Designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction in reading comprehension, vocabulary, and reading skills for reading above grade-level literary, informational, and functional texts. This is a semester class.

Debate (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit)- This course, based on the Utah English Arts (ELA) Core Standards, is designed to introduce students to debate, analysis, reasoning, delivery skills, organization, writing techniques, research, and provides opportunities for impromptu speaking, original oratory, extemporaneous speaking, Lincoln-Douglas debate, and student congress. This is a semester class.

Journalism (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – This course, based on Utah English Language Arts (ELA) Core Standards, is designed to introduce students to newspaper writing and reading, with interviewing, writing, and editing emphasized.  Students will produce a class newspaper. This is a semester class.

Creative Writing (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit)– Students will explore and develop their interests and skills in the field of creative writing.  It is the intent of this course to expose students to narrative writing, poetry, satire, and parody.  Other genres of creative writing may also be explored. This is a semester class. 

Yoga (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – VIDEO – This class focuses on structural alignment, increase of strength and flexibility.  It will deepen a student’s awareness of breath and the role it has in generating energy and stamina in one’s mind and body.  The course will also incorporate techniques for stress relief, and enhance one’s physical performance by teaching students how to connect breath, organ systems, physiology and anatomy all together. This is a semester class.

Social / Ballroom Dance 1 (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – This course offers instruction and practice in the basic social dance steps, rhythms, and techniques.  The following dances may be included: foxtrot, cha-cha, waltz, swing, mambo, western swing, and western line dance.  Performances and rehearsals outside of the regular school day may be required and will constitute a portion of the course grade. This is a semester class. 

Dance 1 (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – VIDEO – A course offering basic dance technique, fitness fundamentals, movement qualities, and rhythm, with an emphasis on creativity, sequencing, and problem solving. Performances and rehearsals outside of the regular school day may be required and will constitute a portion of the course grade. This is a semester class.

Dance 2 (available to 7th/8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Prerequisite: Dance 1 or Instructor approval – VIDEO – This course is designed to develop dance technique, flexibility, and coordination, with an emphasis on creativity and artistic composition. Performances and rehearsals outside of the regular school day may be required and will constitute a portion of the course grade. This is a semester class. 

Advanced Dance (Dance Company) (available to 8th/9th grade students. 1.0 credit) – Prerequisite: Audition Required – VIDEO – A full year course designed to enhance and develop all aspects of dance technique and composition, emphasizing creativity and artistic choreographic skills. Performances and rehearsals outside of the regular school day may be required and will constitute a portion of the course grade. This is a full year class.

Exploring Technology (available to 8th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Exploring Technology is an action-based course that introduces students to the technological systems of two or more of the following areas: energy-power technologies, information and communications technologies, transportation technologies, manufacturing technologies, and construction technologies. Lab fee may apply. This is a semester class.

Engineering Technology (available to 9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – This course shows students how technology is used in engineering to solve everyday problems.  The units excite and motivate students to use their imaginations and teach them to be creative and innovative, while gaining the skills they need to develop, produce and use products and services. Units may include: Design and Modeling, The Magic of Electrons, The Science of Technology, Automation and Robotics, as well as Flight and Space. Fee may apply. This is a semester class.

Digital Literacy/Keyboarding (should be taken either 7th or 8th grade. 0.5 credit) – VIDEO OVERVIEW – This class is really two courses combined into one. The first half is Keyboarding, an unarguably necessary skill for all students. This skill is not taught in any other course and is not offered after the 8th grade. Students are taught proper technique which will make them more efficient typists and help them continue to gain higher speeds even after the class is over. The second half is Digital Literacy, which focuses on understanding how computers are built, what they do, and how to use them properly in a home, work, and social setting. These are essential life skills that the state of Utah has recommended all students to take by the end of 8th grade. This is a semester class.

Creative Coding (available to 7th/8th grade students. 0.5 credit) –A quality computer science curriculum not only engages students in interesting, collaborative learning activities using sound pedagogical strategies, but it also ensures that students are learning concepts vital to the deep and broad field of computer science. Creative Coding has been designed to achieve this goal by aligning with the CSTA K-12 Computer Science Standards. This course is primarily an introductory programming course. Units are grounded in an array of standards from the strands of computational thinking, collaboration, computing practice and programming, computer and communication devices, and community, global and ethical impacts. This is a semester class.

Python 1 – (available to 8th grade students. 0.5 credit) FLYER – This course introduces the Python programming language and is suitable for students who are new to coding. Python is widely used because of its versatility and flexibility. Students will create games, animations, and other interactive programs. Students will master basic coding concepts common to all programming languages and be introduced to libraries, procedural graphics, and complex input. Students will develop coding-related skills such as decomposition, debugging, and analyzing code written by others. Python is a dominant coding language for major companies like Netflix, Amazon, Spotify, and Instagram. And fun fact, the Python language was named after the British comedy group Monty Python. This is a semester class.

Exploring Computer Science (available to 9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – This course is designed to introduce students to the breadth of the field of computer science through an exploration of engaging and accessible topics. Rather than focusing the entire course on learning particular software tools or programming languages, the course is designed to focus on the conceptual ideas of computing and help students understand why certain tools or languages might be utilized to solve particular problems. The goal of the course is to develop in students the computational thinking practices of algorithm development, problem-solving, and programming with the context of problems that are relevant to the lives of today’s students. Students will also be introduced to topics such as interface design, limits of computers, as well as societal and ethical issues. This course may be used as CTE or Digital Studies credit. This is a semester class.

Web Development 1 (available to 9th grade students 0.5 credit) This course covers the basic hands-on skills and knowledge of Internet technologies, network infrastructure, and Web authoring using HTML. Internet professionals are expected to understand and use these foundation skills. Participation in the SkillsUSA youth leadership organization may be an integral part of this course. This is a semester class.

Business Office Specialist (available to 9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – This course applies advanced concepts and principles using word-processing, spreadsheets, databases and electronic presentation software. Students will integrate applications learned. Students will have the opportunity to gain a Certificate in Microsoft Office.  This is a semester class.

Exploring Business and Marketing (available to 8th/9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – Students will be exposed to all the basic concepts in business; including stock market, entrepreneurship, marketing, accounting, and human resources. Students will also do an in-class simulation where they will develop an actual product that they may sell to friends and family which may result in real personal profit! This is a semester class.

Teaching as a Profession (available to 9th grade students 0.5 credit) A course designed to create the next generation of effective educators in Utah. Students will explore educational careers and develop employable skills. Students will create basic lesson plans and accommodate for the academic needs of individual students. Students will investigate theorists who set the framework for effective student learning and child development. Students will craft a variety of hands-on projects applicable to classroom learning. Students will experience the job responsibilities of an educator.

Child Development (available to 9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – This course covers the development of a child from conception through adolescence.  It includes the following topics; reproductive tracts, prenatal development and care, healthy lifestyles conducive to healthy pregnancies, birth defects, and the development and care of children throughout childhood.  This class is a prerequisite for any of the high-level child development courses in High School. This is a semester class.

Foods and Nutrition 1 (available to 9th grade students. 0.5 credit) –This course is designed to help students understand the fundamentals of food and how it works with our bodies. We will discuss the principles of nutrition, food selection and preparation, meal management, and food economics.  Lab fee may apply. This is a semester class.

FCS Child Development and Foods (available to 8th grade students. 0.5 credit)– This Family and Consumer Science course provides students with essential life skills. Students will learn about the following areas: Child Development, Free Enterprise, Teen Living, Foods, and Nutrition. Lab fee may apply.  This is a semester class.

FCS Clothing and Interior Design (available to 8th grade students. 0.5 credit) – An exploratory Family and Consumer Science course where we will learn more about Interior Design, Fashion Design, Sewing Construction & Textiles and Free Enterprise. Students will be expected to provide their own materials for projects in this course.  The school will help supply materials for those students on fee waiver. This is a semester class.

Fashion Design Studio (available to 9th grade students. 0.5 credit) This course prepares individuals to assist in coordinating garments for various occasions. Units of instruction include analysis of fashion trends, basic characteristics of styles, fashion design, and merchandising techniques; describing garment construction features, quality, and fiber content to customers; assessing of durability and care of fabric and garments; selecting current fashion for figure types and fitting garments on customers; planning and presenting fashion shows; and developing fashion displays. The class includes the analysis of garments and accessory combinations to create pleasing designs with line, form, and fabrics. Participation in the FCCLA youth organization may be an integral part of this course.

Sewing Construction and Textiles 1 (available to 9th grade students. 0.5 credit) – A beginning class in sewing and textiles.  No experience is needed for the class.  We will learn about fibers, textiles, patterns, and basic sewing techniques.  Students will complete a minimum of three projects:  two apparel items and one final project of their choice. This is a semester class.

 

7th GRADE REQUIRED COURSES 

LANGUAGE ARTS

7th Grade Language Arts – Designed  for grade level instruction in reading comprehension, writing, methods of inquiry, and the process, skills, and strategies of effective communication.

7th Grade Language Arts Honors – This course is similar to 7th Grade Language Arts, but is designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction.

7th Grade ALPS Language Arts Honors – This course, based on the 7th grade Utah English Language Arts Core Standards, is a combination of Honors Language Arts and Honors Reading. It is designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction. Emphasis is added on depth, complexity, creativity, and critical thinking.

DIGITAL LITERACY/KEYBOARDING

Digital Literacy/Keyboarding (required to be taken either 7th or 8th grade. 0.5 credit) – VIDEO OVERVIEW – This class is really two courses combined into one. The first half is Keyboarding, an unarguably necessary skill for all students. This skill is not taught in any other course and is not offered after the 8th grade. Students are taught proper technique which will make them more efficient typists and help them continue to gain higher speeds even after the class is over. The second half is Digital Literacy, which focuses on understanding how computers are built, what they do, and how to use them properly in a home, work, and social setting. These are essential life skills that the state of Utah has recommended (but not required) all students to take by the end of 8th grade. This is a semester class.

 

READING

7th Grade Reading – This course is designed for students requiring basic instruction with targeted reading intervention in reading comprehension, vocabulary, and reading skills to assist striving readers with literary, informational, and functional texts (Anyone not meeting Reading Requirements will be placed in Reading for either a semester or a full year depending on testing recommendations.)

MATH 

The 7th Grade Math and 7th Grade Math Honors cover very similar material and are basically the same except for the speed and support that is offered. 7th Grade Math goes a little bit slower, there are peer tutors and an adult aide in each class to help students, and there is time built into the calendar to help students who may have struggled in the past. This class is designed so that students who need and want help can get help. Students who achieve a 95% test average in 7th Grade Math can qualify for honors math in 8th grade. 

7th Grade Math Honors goes a little faster than 7th Grade Math. There are no peer tutors or adult aides in these classes. Most students who take 7th Grade Math Honors have done well in math and they have usually been proficient on benchmark and year end tests. Students who take 7th Grade Math Honors are normally motivated to do well and do not require much assistance. Students in honors math need to maintain a 90% test average to qualify for honors math the next year. 

7th/8th Grade Accelerated Math is only for very advanced students. In order for this class to be recommended, Rise Test scores from 5th grade should be 400 or more and the final 6th grade Rise score should be at 448 or more. Students who take 7th/8th Grade Math Accelerated usually love math, they already know how to show work to solve algebraic equations, and they like working hard to figure things out. Students in 7th/8th Grade Accelerated Math will need to maintain a 95% test average to qualify for Secondary Math 1 Honors in 8th grade.

Still not sure? Check out this document for even more on how to choose a math class.

SOCIAL STUDIES

 

7th Grade Utah Studies (Semester) – Students will learn about Utah’s diverse physical geography, encounter Utah’s economic systems and dynamics, and explore local and statewide political systems. The Utah Studies standards are based on four social studies disciplines: history, geography, economics, and civics. 

7th Grade ALPS Utah Studies (Semester) – Students will learn about Utah’s diverse physical geography, encounter Utah’s economic systems and dynamics, and explore local and statewide political systems. The Utah Studies standards are based on four social studies disciplines: history, geography, economics, and civics. ALPS students will be taught with an added emphasis on depth, complexity, creativity, and critical thinking.

SCIENCE

7th Grade Integrated Science – This class will focus on the theme of “structure”. Life, physical, and earth science contents are integrated in a core curriculum.  The standards to be taught relate to matter, structure of earth’s crust and interior, structure of cells and organisms, reproduction and heredity of organisms, and classification schemes.

7th Grade ALPS Integrated Science – This class will focus on the theme of “structure”. Life, physical, and earth science contents are integrated in a core curriculum.  The standards to be taught relate to matter, structure of earth’s crust and interior, structure of cells and organisms, reproduction and heredity of organisms, and classification schemes. ALPS students will be taught with an added emphasis on depth, complexity, creativity, and critical thinking.

FITNESS (All fitness classes require that you provide your own lock and a grey shirt with your last name written on the back in 2″ letters)

7th Grade Fitness – This physical education course develops a solid foundation in skills and competencies. Students are still mastering basic manipulative skills, and are ready to engage in lead-up games and drills that provide a progression toward participation in regulation or advanced play. Students will apply skills in modified games, and may be introduced to regulation rules and game play. Instruction includes an introduction to training principles and activities that can enhance health-related fitness as students pursue personal fitness goals. 

 

Dance 1  –  A course offering basic dance technique, fitness fundamentals, movement qualities, and rhythm, with an emphasis on creativity, sequencing, and problem solving. Performances and rehearsals outside of the regular school day may be required and will constitute a portion of the course grade.

COLLEGE AND CAREER AWARENESS

CCA/CTE – 7th Grade students will take 4 quarter classes of CTE (career and technical education). Information, Technology, Business, and Family and Consumer Science classes allow students to be involved in activity-centered lessons, which utilize technology, develop beginning skills, and explore careers. 

SPANISH DUAL LANGUAGE IMMERSION

Spanish DLI 3H 7th Grade – Is a required Elective course offered only to Dual Immersion Students (students who have completed an elementary dual language immersion program.) This course begins preparation for the Advanced Placement (AP) Spanish exam. It is designed to teach advanced skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The course content includes the development of more abstract vocabulary, literature, speaking, conversations, and composition.

The DLI Culture and Media class is recommended but not required for DLI students in 7th grade.

8th GRADE REQUIRED COURSES

LANGUAGE ARTS

8th Grade Language Arts – Designed for grade level instruction in reading comprehension, writing, methods of inquiry, and the process, skills, and strategies of effective communication

8th Grade Language Arts Honors – This course is similar to 8th Grade Language Arts but is designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction.

8th Grade ALPS Language Arts Honors –  This course, based on 8th Grade Utah English Language Arts Core Standards, is designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction. It follows the same course as 8th Grade Language Arts Honors, but with an added emphasis on depth, complexity, creativity, and critical thinking.

DIGITAL LITERACY/KEYBOARDING

Digital Literacy/Keyboarding (expected to be taken either 7th or 8th grade. 0.5 credit) – VIDEO OVERVIEW – This class is really two courses combined into one. The first half is Keyboarding, an unarguably necessary skill for all students. This skill is not taught in any other course and is not offered after the 8th grade. Students are taught proper technique which will make them more efficient typists and help them continue to gain higher speeds even after the class is over. The second half is Digital Literacy, which focuses on understanding how computers are built, what they do, and how to use them properly in a home, work, and social setting. These are essential life skills that the state of Utah has recommended all students to take by the end of 8th grade. This is a semester class.

 

READING

 

8th Grade Reading – This course is designed for students requiring basic instruction with targeted reading intervention in reading comprehension, vocabulary, and reading skills to assist striving readers with literary, informational, and functional texts (Anyone not meeting Reading Requirements will be placed in Reading for either a semester or a full year depending on testing recommendations.)

 

MATH

 

8th Grade Math is taken by most students who took 7th Grade Math. 8th Grade Math is similar to 8th Grade Math Honors but it does NOT include honors topics. 8th Grade Math goes a little bit slower and focuses on essential skills. Students who achieve a 95% test average in 8th Grade Math can qualify for honors math in 9th grade, but they may need to study a few additional topics over the summer.

 

8th Grade Math Honors is taken by students who did exceptionally well in 7th Grade Math (regular or honors).  This course covers all the topics of 8th Grade Math along with a few honors topics that prepare students for future math classes. Students who take 8th Grade Math Honors are usually motivated to do well, they enjoy math, and they do not require much assistance. Students in honors math need to maintain a 90% test average to qualify for honors math the next year.  

 

Secondary Math 1 Honors is only for very advanced 8th graders. Students who take this class did exceptionally well in 8th Grade Math Honors as a 7th grader. Students who take this class love math and they enjoy working hard to figure things out. Students in Secondary Math 1 Honors as an 8th grader need to maintain a 95% test average to qualify for Secondary Math 2 Honors in 9th grade.

 

SOCIAL STUDIES

 

US History – This course includes events and issues in the United States history from the Age of Exploration through Reconstruction, emphasizing the 18th and 19th centuries. Topics include, but are not limited to, American Indian life, European exploration and colonization, the Revolutionary War, constitutional issues, nation building, expansion, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. Students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding of each period’s key historic, geographic, economic, and civic concepts by applying those concepts to complete cognitively rigorous tasks.

 

US History Honors – This course is designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction.  Students will study events and issues in the United States history from the Age of Exploration through Reconstruction, emphasizing the 18th and 19th centuries. Topics include, but are not limited to, American Indian life, European exploration and colonization, the Revolutionary War, constitutional issues, nation building, expansion, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. Students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding of each period’s key historic, geographic, economic, and civic concepts by applying those concepts to complete cognitively rigorous tasks. 

 

8th Grade ALPS US History Honors – This course is designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction.  Students will study events and issues in the United States history from the Age of Exploration through Reconstruction, emphasizing the 18th and 19th centuries. Topics include, but are not limited to, American Indian life, European exploration and colonization, the Revolutionary War, constitutional issues, nation building, expansion, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. Students will be expected to demonstrate their understanding of each period’s key historic, geographic, economic, and civic concepts by applying those concepts to complete cognitively rigorous tasks. The ALPS course is designed with an added emphasis on depth, complexity, creativity, and critical thinking.

 

SCIENCE

 

8th Grade Integrated Science – This class focuses on the interaction of matter and energy in nature. This is explored through an integration of chemistry, physics, biology, and geology The standards to be taught relate to chemical and physical changes, energy and waves, matter and energy cycles, and geological processes.

 

 

8th Grade ALPS Integrated Science – This class focuses on the interaction of matter and energy in nature. This is explored through an integration of chemistry, physics, biology, and geology The standards to be taught relate to chemical and physical changes, energy and waves, matter and energy cycles, and geological processes. The ALPS course is designed with an added emphasis on depth, complexity, creativity, and critical thinking.

 

FITNESS (All fitness classes require that you provide your own lock and a grey shirt with your last name written on the back in 2″ letters)

 

8th Grade Fitness – This physical education course continues developing a solid foundation in skills and competencies. Students are still mastering basic manipulative skills and are ready to engage in lead-up games and drills that provide a progression toward participation in regulation or advanced play. Students will apply skills in modified games and may be introduced to regulation rules and game play. Instruction includes an introduction to training principles and activities that can enhance health-related fitness as students pursue personal fitness goals. 

 

 

 

Dance 1  –  A course offering basic dance technique, fitness fundamentals, movement qualities, and rhythm, with an emphasis on creativity, sequencing, and problem solving. Performances and rehearsals outside of the regular school day may be required and will constitute a portion of the course grade. If choosing 8th Grade Fitness as your approved Fitness class, you can still opt to also have Dance 1, as an elective.

 

Dance 2 – Prerequisite: Dance 1 or Instructor approval – This course is designed to develop dance technique, flexibility, and coordination, with an emphasis on creativity and artistic composition. Performances and rehearsals outside of the regular school day may be required and will constitute a portion of the course grade. If choosing 8th Grade Fitness as your approved Fitness class, you can still opt to also have Dance 2, as an elective.

 

Advanced Dance (Dance Company) – Prerequisite -Audition/Instructor approval –  A full year course designed to enhance and develop all aspects of dance technique and composition, emphasizing creativity and artistic choreographic skills. Performances and rehearsals outside of the regular school day may be required and will constitute a portion of the course grade. This is a full year class. If choosing 8th Grade Fitness as your approved Fitness class, you can still opt to also have Advanced Dance, as an elective.

 

HEALTH

 

Health – This course develops the skills necessary to improve the quality of life by helping students to cope with and solve problems, develop a positive self-image, and make healthy decisions. Students will explore positive lifestyles, disease prevention, emergency procedures, media literacy, and alcohol and drug abuse prevention.

 

SPANISH DUAL LANGUAGE IMMERSION

 

Spanish DLI 4H 8th Grade – A required Elective course for Dual Immersion Students Only. This course continues preparation for the Advanced Placement (AP) Spanish exam. Specifically designed as the middle school pathway for students who have completed an elementary dual language immersion program, it is designed to teach advanced skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The course content includes the development of more abstract vocabulary, literature, speaking, conversations, and composition.

 

The DLI Culture and Media class is recommended but not required for 8th grade DLI students.

 

9th GRADE REQUIRED COURSES

 

LANGUAGE ARTS

 

9th Grade Language Arts – Designed for grade level instruction in reading comprehension, writing, methods of inquiry, and the process, skills, and strategies of effective communication.

 

9th Grade Language Arts Honors – This course is similar to 9th Grade Language Arts, but is designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction.

 

9th Grade ALPS Language Arts 10 Honors –  This course is designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction. It follows the same course as 10th Grade Language Arts Honors, but with an added emphasis on depth, complexity, creativity, and critical thinking. This class accelerates students and puts them on the track to take AP English courses in high school.

 

 

 

MATH 

 

Secondary Math 1 is taken by most students who took 8th Grade Math. Secondary Math 1 is similar to Secondary Math 1 Honors but it does NOT include honors topics. Secondary Math 1 goes a little bit slower and focuses on essential skills. Students who achieve a 95% test average in Secondary Math 1 can qualify for honors math in 9th grade, but they may need to study additional topics over the summer.

 

Secondary Math 1 Honors is taken by students who did exceptionally well in 8th Grade Math (regular or honors). This course covers all the topics of Secondary Math 1 along with honors topics that prepare students for high school honors classes. Students who take Secondary Math 1 Honors are usually motivated to do well, they enjoy math, and they do not require much assistance. Students in honors math need to maintain a 90% test average to qualify for honors math the next year. 

 

Secondary Math 2 Honors is only for very advanced students. Students take this class if they did exceptionally well in Secondary Math 1 Honors as an 8th grader. Students in this class are usually preparing for college level math. Students who take this class love math and they enjoy working hard to figure things out. Students in Secondary Math 2 Honors as a 9th grader need to maintain a 95% test average to qualify for Secondary Math 3 Honors in 10th grade. 

 

SOCIAL STUDIES

 

9th Grade World Geography – The study of physical and human characteristics of the Earth’s people, places, and environments.

 

9th Grade Advanced Placement Human Geography – This college level course covers the nature and perspectives of geography, population, cultural patterns and processes, political organization of space, agriculture and rural land use, industrialization and economic development, and cities and urban land use. University credit can be earned with a successful performance on the Advanced Placement (AP) exam.

 

FITNESS (All fitness classes require that you provide your own lock and a grey shirt with your last name written on the back in 2″ letters)

 

Participation Skills and Techniques – This course focuses on demonstrating the ability to plan and implement different types of personal fitness programs, demonstrate competency in lifetime activities, describe key concepts associated with successful participation in physical activity, model responsible behavior while engaged in physical activity, and fill a need for self-expression, challenge, social interaction and enjoyment.

 

 

 

SCIENCE

 

9th Grade Honors Biology –This biology Core includes three major concepts for instruction. 1. The structures in all living things occur as a result of necessary functions. 2. Interaction of organisms in an environment are determined by the biotic and abiotic components of the environment. 3. Evolution of species occurs over time and is related to the environment in which the species live. 

 

9th Grade Earth Systems – The theme for Earth Science is systems as an organizing concept to understand life on Earth, geological change, and the interaction of atmosphere, hydrosphere, and biosphere.  Earth’s place in the universe, internal structure, atmospheric processes, and resources are explored to help students understand how Earth Science interacts with society.

 

SPANISH DUAL LANGUAGE IMMERSION

 

AP Spanish DLI 5H 9th Grade – A required Elective for Dual Immersion Students Only. The focus of this advanced course is to prepare students for the Advanced Placement (AP) Spanish exam they will take this year. This course is structured around a balanced approach to the three modes of communication –presentational, interpretive and interpersonal.  Cultural comparison, stimulating readings, persuasive essay practice and class discussions are used to teach structure and vocabulary. Designed to teach advanced skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The course content includes the development of more abstract vocabulary, literature, speaking, conversations, and composition.

 

The DLI Culture and Media course is only recommended for 9th graders if they have not completed 4 semesters of the class as a 7th and 8th grader.