English (full year)
English 6 Core:
English 6 Core teaches the core curriculum as mandated by the state. Students will read, write, and speak at grade level standards from District approved novels and content. Standards include reading informational, functional, and literary texts, while developing reading strategies and strong writing skills. Discussions will focus on summarizing and interpretation of texts. Students will develop the fundamentals of essay writing, including developing a strong claim and supporting it with evidence.
English 6 Honors:
English 6 Honors teaches the core curriculum at a higher standard than core English. Students will analyze, read closely, and write extensively at grade level standards, but are also encouraged to employ a deeper and more complex mode of critical thinking. As literature can be analyzed at both the literal and metaphorical levels, students are encouraged to do a close reading of complex passages considering elements such as mood, tone, audience, and other rhetorical devices. Students will have daily homework, including reading novels at home prior to class each day. DIBELS and standardized test scores should be at or above grade level to be enrolled in this course. Students performing below grade level by the end of first term will be moved to English 6 Core.
English 6 GT:
Students will be notified if they have met qualifications to be placed in the Gifted and Talented program. Similar to Honors, this course expects students to independently complete homework assignments and course work.
English 7 Core:
English 7 Core teaches the core curriculum as mandated by the state. Students will read, write, and speak at grade level standards from District approved novels and content. Standards include reading informational, functional, and literary texts, while developing reading strategies and strong writing skills. Discussions will focus on summarizing, analysis, and interpretation of texts. Students will develop the fundamentals of essay writing, including developing a strong claim and supporting it with evidence, as well as defending their reasoning.
English 7 Honors:
English 7 Honors teaches the core curriculum at a higher standard than core English. Students will analyze, read closely, and write extensively at grade level standards, but are also encouraged to employ a deeper and more complex mode of critical thinking. As literature works at both the literal and metaphorical levels, students are encouraged to do a close reading of complex passages considering elements such as mood, tone, audience, and other rhetorical devices. Students will have daily homework, including reading novels at home prior to class each day. Reading Inventory, at least 970 Lexile, and standardized test scores should be at or above grade level to be enrolled in this course. Students performing below grade level by the end of first term will be moved to English 7 Core.
English 7 GT:
Students will be notified if they have met qualifications to be placed in the Gifted and Talented program. Similar to Honors, this course expects students to independently complete homework assignments and course work.
English 8 Core:
English 8 Core teaches the core curriculum as mandated by the state. Students will read, write, and speak at grade level standards from District approved novels and content. Standards include reading informational, functional, and literary texts, while developing reading strategies and strong writing skills. Discussions will focus on analysis and interpretation of texts. Students will develop essay writing skills, including developing multi-paragraph defense of their claims, citing credible and relevant sources, and revision of work.
English 8 Honors:
English 8 Honors teaches the core curriculum at an accelerated rate compared to core English. Students will analyze, read closely, and write extensively at grade level standards, and will employ a deeper and more complex mode of critical thinking. As literature works at both the literal and metaphorical levels, students are encouraged to do a close reading of complex passages considering elements such as mood, tone, audience, and other rhetorical devices. Students will have daily homework, including reading at home prior to class each day, at least one novel per term. Reading Inventory, at least 1010 Lexile, and standardized test scores should be at or above grade level to be enrolled in this course. Students performing below grade level by the end of first term will be moved to English 8 Core.
English 8 GT:
Students will be notified if they have met qualifications to be placed in the Gifted and Talented program. Similar to Honors, this course expects students to independently complete homework assignments and course work.
Science (full year)
6th Grade Integrated Science
Utah teaches the Science and Engineering Education (SEEd) Standards in 6th-8th Grade. This is an approach that uses questioning, observation of phenomena and engineering to solve scientific problems and questions.
Students in 6th grade will focus on three “strands”: Structure and Motion Within the Solar System, Energy and Matter, and Weather and Climate. You can visit https://www.schools.utah.gov/curr/science for more specific information. The SEEd Standards emphasize hands-on investigations, experimental design and looking for answers through investigation and research. Students ARE the scientists!
6th Grade Integrated Science – Honors
Science is an opportunity for students to engage in thinking about the natural world, by learning how to think and act like a scientist and learning the underlying principles of science. The sixth grade Utah science curriculum includes engineering, allowing students to immerse themselves in real-world, problem solving situations. Students will use science and engineering practices, frame thinking with cross-cutting concepts, and make use of core ideas. In the Honors class we dig a little deeper into the “why” of these concepts. Students are expected to come to class prepared each day, to stay on top of their work, and to be responsible and accountable for themselves.
Sixth grade students will:
• Explain how the interactions between organisms and environments can affect populations in the Biosphere.
• Model how the energy-matter relationship affects Earth’s systems resulting in weather and climate on Earth.
• Investigate the impact heat energy has on matter, including phase changes and particle motion.
• Explore our solar system and the impact of gravity on the emotion and structure of celestial bodies in the solar system
6th Grade Integrated Science – GT
Science is an opportunity for students to engage in thinking about the natural world, by learning how to think and act like a scientist and learning the underlying principles of science. The sixth grade Utah science curriculum includes engineering, allowing students to immerse themselves in real-world, problem solving situations. Students will use science and engineering practices, frame thinking with cross-cutting concepts, and make use of core ideas. In the Gifted and Talented class we dig a little deeper into the “why” of these concepts, and have some additional project work. Students are expected to come to class prepared each day, to stay on top of their work, and to be responsible and accountable for themselves. Students must test into the Gifted and Talented program.
Sixth grade students will:
• Explain how the interactions between organisms and environments can affect populations in the Biosphere.
• Model how the energy-matter relationship affects Earth’s systems resulting in weather and climate on Earth.
• Investigate the impact heat energy has on matter, including phase changes and particle motion.
• Explore our solar system and the impact of gravity on the emotion and structure of celestial bodies in the solar system
7th Grade Integrated Science
The 7th grade course focuses on relationships of cause and effect to pinpoint mechanisms of nature. Standards include: Forces are Interactions between Matter,
Changes to Earth Over Time, Structure and Function of Life, Reproduction and Inheritance, Changes in Species Over Time.
7th Honors Integrated Science
Science Honors is available and is a much more rigorous class. Students wanting to participate in the Honors Science class should love science, be reading on grade level or higher, and have critical thinking skills. Students can expect to: do a STEM fair project, complete term projects, write essays, build models and experiment. Students should be able to work independently with minimal guidance.
7th GT Integrated Science
Utah teaches the Science and Engineering Education (SEEd) Standards in 6th-8th Grade. This is an approach that uses questioning, observation of phenomena and engineering to solve scientific problems and questions.
Students in 7th grade will focus on five “strands”: Forces, Changes to Earth Over time, Structure and Function of Life, Reproduction and Inheritance, and Changes in Species Over Time. You can visit https://www.schools.utah.gov/curr/science for more specific information. The content requirements and standardized testing will be the same for students in GT and regular 7th grade science. In GT, there is more emphasis on critical thinking skills, projects, presentations and real-life problem-solving. Students in GT are expected to dig deeper, reach higher and be more self-motivated and self-directed than in a traditional course.
8th Grade Integrated Science
The 8th grade course focuses on patterns and the relationships of matter and energy as it flows through a system . Standards include: Matter and Energy in Chemical Bonds, Physics of Storing and Transferring Energy, Biological Systems, and Natural Resources and Sustainability.
8th Honors Integrated Science
Science Honors is available and is a much more rigorous class. Students wanting to participate in the Honors Science class should love science, be reading on grade level or higher and have critical thinking skills. Students can expect to do a STEM fair project, term projects, write essays, build models and do experiments. Students should be able to work independently with minimal guidance.
8th GT Integrated Science
Utah teaches the Science and Engineering Education (SEEd) Standards in 6th-8th Grade. This is an approach that uses questioning, observation of phenomena and engineering to solve scientific problems and questions.
Students in 8th grade will focus on four “strands”: Matter and Energy in Chemical Bonds, Physics of Storing and Transferring Energy, Biological Systems, and Natural Resources and Sustainability. You can visit https://www.schools.utah.gov/curr/science for more specific information. The content requirements and standardized testing will be the same for students in GT and regular 8th grade science. In GT, there is more emphasis on critical thinking skills, projects, presentations and real-life problem-solving. Students in GT are expected to dig deeper, reach higher and be more self-motivated and self-directed than in a traditional course.
Social Studies
(6th & 8th grade full year – 7th grade semester)
World Studies – 6th Grade
In the sixth grade, the focus expands to look at world history and culture. Students will learn about selected regions of the world and the societies that have formed there, learning about their systems of governance, the rights and responsibilities they hold, how their societies have changed and continued over time, and how these regions are interconnected. Specific epochs of time include Ancient Civilizations, The Middle Ages and Renaissance, The Age of Revolutions, and The Modern World.
Excitement, wonder, inquiry, and puzzlement are central to meaningful learning in social studies. Social studies should be fun and intriguing for all students and provide opportunities to make important life-long connections between the past, present, and future.
~Students enrolled in the core World Studies course can expect more teacher support and guidance as we make our way through the year.
~Students enrolled in the Honors World Studies course will need to be reading on or above grade level. They should be self-motivated learners who regularly take initiative for their own learning. Students should be willing to commit to the increased expectations of the course.
~Students who qualify for GT World Studies will learn content that is compacted for a faster classroom pace to allow for more intensive and in-depth study of the curriculum.
Utah Studies – 7th grade
Utah Studies is a one semester class. Utah Studies is based on four social studies disciplines: history, geography, economics, and civics. Students will explore the complex history of Utah and the examples of creativity, sacrifice, conflict, innovation, inequity, compromise, and leadership.
Utah Studies Honors – 7th grade
Utah Studies 7 Honors is a one semester class. Utah Studies Honors teaches the core curriculum at a higher standard. Based on four social studies disciplines: history, geography, economics, and civics. Students will explore the complex history of Utah, with examples of creativity, sacrifice, conflict, innovation, inequity, compromise, and leadership. Primary and Secondary sources are used in more depth to analyze the four disciplines of Utah Studies. Students are also encouraged to employ a deeper and more complex mode of critical thinking and write at grade level standards.
US History I – 8th grade
US History I is a full year class. In US History we focus on helping our students become informed citizens. We will analyze historical and current events, explore civics and the responsibilities of citizenship, and develop online news literacy skills. Historical topics include, but are not limited to, Native American life, European exploration and
colonization, the Revolutionary War, the US Constitution, nation building and expansion, the Civil War, and Reconstruction.
US History I Honors – 8th grade
Honors US History I is a full year class. In Honors US History we focus on helping our students become informed citizens with an emphasis on in-depth learning and developing critical thinking skills. We will analyze historical and current events, explore civics and the responsibilities of citizenship, and develop online news literacy skills. Historical topics include, but are not limited to, Native American life, European exploration and colonization, the Revolutionary War, the US Constitution, nation building and expansion, the Civil War, and Reconstruction.
Math (full year)
Math 6 provides the foundation for middle school mathematics. Instruction will focus on six critical areas: (1) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the system of rational numbers to include negative numbers; (2) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (3) writing and evaluating algebraic expressions; (4) writing and solving one-step equation and inequalities; (5) developing understanding of relationships among shapes to determine area, surface area, and volume and (6) developing understanding of statistical thinking by analyzing and displaying data distributions.
Math 6 Honors is an above-grade level advanced math course. Students are expected to enter this course fluent in their ability to complete operations with positive rational numbers (decimals, fractions, and whole numbers) learned from 5th grade without a calculator. Students will receive content and workload that is accelerated. In addition to the core Math 6 foundation, instructional emphasis will be placed on modeling real-life situations as well as finding multiple modalities to approaching a problem while teaching critical thinking skills.
Math 7 builds on the skills and concepts developed in Math 6. Instructional time will focus on six critical areas: (1) developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships; (2) develop an understanding of absolute value to solve problems involving integers; (3) developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations; (4) working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving scale drawings, area, surface area, and volume; (5) drawing inferences about populations based on samples and (6) developing an understanding of simple probability models and using them to make predictions
Math 7 Honors is an above-grade level advanced math course. Students are expected to enter this course fluent in their ability to complete operations with positive rational numbers (decimals, fractions, and whole numbers) without a calculator. Students will receive content and workload that is accelerated. In addition to the core Math 7 foundation, instructional emphasis will be placed on modeling real-life situations with expressions, equations, and inequalities. In addition, students will explore and demonstrate proportional reasoning as they represent real-world phenomena in the
form of tables, equations, and graphs. This course stresses critical thinking and process skills. The intent of the courses is to allow students to master course content, stretch thinking, and emphasize individual pursuits.
Math 7/8 Compacted (must test into class) is a super accelerated and advanced course that merges Math 8 and part of Math 7 skills and concepts. Students are expected to enter this course fluent in their ability to complete operations with positive rational numbers (decimals, fractions, and whole numbers) without a calculator. Students will receive content and workload that is accelerated. Instructional time will focus on nine critical areas: (1) formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; (2) grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; (3) working with two and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving scale drawings, area, surface area, and volume; (4) analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem; (5) solving problems involving scale drawings and working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume; (6) drawing inferences about populations based on samples; (7) developing an understanding of simple probability models and using them to make predictions; (8) extending the number system to include irrational numbers and (9) develop an understanding of exponential properties to simplify expressions and apply them to scientific notation.
Math 8 is designed to provide a foundation for the development of skills necessary for Secondary Math I in High School. Instructional time will focus on five critical areas: (1) formulating and reasoning about equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, inequalities and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; (2) grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; (3) analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem; (4) extending the number system to include irrational numbers and (5) develop an understanding of exponential properties to simplify expressions and apply them to scientific notation.
Math 8 Honors is an above-grade level advanced math course. Students are expected to enter this course fluent in their ability to complete operations with rational numbers (decimals, fractions, percentages, integers) without a calculator. Students will receive content and workload that is accelerated. In addition to the core Math 8 foundation, instructional emphasis will be placed on modeling real-life situations with expressions, equations, inequalities, and systems of equations. In addition, students will explore functions as they represent real-world phenomena in the form of tables, equations, and graphs. This course stresses critical thinking and process skills. The intent of the courses is to allow students to master course content, stretch thinking, and emphasize individual pursuits.
Secondary Math I Honors is an above-grade level advanced math course. Students are expected to enter this course fluent in their ability to complete operations with
rational numbers (decimals, fractions, percentages, integers) without a calculator as well as solve equations and simplify expressions independently. Students will receive content and workload that is accelerated. The critical areas of Secondary Mathematics I deepen and extend understanding of linear relationships, in part by contrasting them with exponential phenomena, and in part by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend. Students will use properties and theorems involving congruent figures to deepen and extend understanding of geometric knowledge from prior grades. Algebraic and geometric ideas are tied together. Students will experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations. Additionally, Secondary Math I Honors students will represent quantities, model, and perform operations using vectors and use matrices to perform operations and solve problems. This course is for high school credit and will be included on the student’s high school transcripts. Prerequisite: Math 8 Honors or Compacted 7/8 Honors.
Other Required Classes
6th Grade Success (6th grade) full year
A unique opportunity that sixth graders have to learn to navigate secondary education. This class will be an introduction to the school, as well as helping students obtain:
Good study habits
Technology experience
Social and emotional skills
Goal setting and achievement
The standards for this course can be found here.
Digital Literacy (7th grade) semester
Digital Literacy helps prepare students to be safe, efficient and good digital citizens. Students will learn about scams, picking a secure password, finding trustworthy information, and dealing with strangers online, keeping themselves and their accounts safe online. Students will also learn about the basic functioning of computers, networks and the internet. They will also become better digital communicators as they learn about word documents, spreadsheets, and digital slideshows, both Microsoft and Google versions, and photo editing with Photoshop and Pixlr. This class will help students become well rounded and fluent in basic digital communication and life.
Health (7th grade) semester
Health Education provides students with knowledge, attitudes, and skills to make health-promoting decisions. The classes address the physical, mental, emotional, and social dimensions of health. Students will develop high level comprehension and understanding in the areas of Personal Wellness, Social Skills and Healthy Relationships, Mental and Emotional Health, Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco, Body
Systems and Disease, Nutrition and Fitness, Consumer and Environmental Health, and Human Sexuality.
College & Career Awareness (CCA) (8th grade) full year
Through hands-on lessons, College & Career Awareness allows students to utilize technology, develop foundational skills, and explore careers. The course provides information regarding additional courses and training related to each student’s career field of interest, as they begin to prepare for college and career. Students will experience engineering, building & construction, marketing, business, as well as biotech industries, hospitality/ service industries, medical, foods & nutrition and more career areas. This engaging survey course is the foundation course for Career & Technical Education (CTE) courses in high school and beyond.
Study/No Credit (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) full year
This Canvas course will be on every student’s schedule as a 0-period class. The purpose for this course is for the counseling center to get information to our students. Counselors will be using it for College & Career Readiness Planning (CCR’s) and will have occasional forms that the students will be asked to complete. On this Canvas page the students will have access to many resources that may help in stress relief; CCR planning; anxiety; community resources and more.
Electives
Physical Education
Physical Education (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) semester or full year
In Physical Education at Olympus Jr. you will be exposed to lifelong fitness activities that will benefit your health and well-being. Students will start developing their skills in non-traditional games and progress their skills into team sports. Students will have the opportunity to participate in recreational activities, team sports, cardiovascular endurance training, strength development and flexibility exercises. Throughout the year students will also track personal fitness data during fitness testing and see growth in each fitness component.
Advanced Fitness and Conditioning (7th & 8th grade) semester
This is a fitness class designed for 7th and 8th grade athletes and aspiring fitness enthusiasts. This class will focus on muscular endurance, muscular strength, agility, flexibility, and speed. Students will complete designed daily workouts and focus on self-improvement, dedication, and perseverance.
Dance
Social Dance
Social Dance is designed to increase knowledge and ability in partner dancing. This class is geared towards the beginning dancer. No previous dance experience is required. Students will learn the fundamentals of Ballroom, Latin, and Line dances. Some of the dances the students may learn include the East Coast Swing, Cha Cha, Waltz, Foxtrot, and Samba. This class is a great way to get up, move, and have fun!
Dance
The course will cover the Utah state core curriculum. This includes technique in ballet, jazz, hip hop, and contemporary. Dancers will gain knowledge in how to use the elements of dance, fundamental forms of locomotion, quality of movement, spatial relationships, and fundamentals of rhythm and dance composition. We will cover the strands: Create, Perform, Respond, and Connect.
Dance Company
Dance Company is designed to nourish technical ability, performance skills, creativity, and self-esteem. Dance Company also provides opportunities to develop discipline, responsibility, and self-confidence. This course will focus on several components of dance including the physical, emotional, and cognitive. In addition, Dance Company is also designed to give students numerous opportunities to perform, choreograph, and work with guest choreographers. The course will cover the Utah state core curriculum and will cover the State Board of Education Strands: Create, Perform, Respond, Connect. Students will audition in March for the following school year.
Vocal
Mixed & Girls Chorus (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) semester
The goal of the music class is to provide the student the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of music and instill a love and appreciation for music through student performance and various musical activities.
Theatre
Theatre I (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) semester
Theatre I is a course designed to give students a basic understanding of the elements of Theatre. The course focuses on five fun and exciting areas of the theatre; Appreciation, Script Analysis and Writing, Voice Development, Movement, and Acting. It a fun interactive class where students have the opportunity to collaborate and move throughout the room.
Theatre II (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) semester
Students in Theatre II continue where they left off in Theatre I. This course focuses on Acting, Improvisation, and Performance. We will develop scenes and monologues (both through analysis, writing, and performance). Students will work on auditioning techniques while developing a resume, headshot, and interview skills to prepare for “real” world acting opportunities. This class will also direct and perform a 30 minute one- act play in its final weeks. (Theatre I Prerequisite)
Stage Crew (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) semester
This class is a basic introduction to Stagecraft. Students will learn the about the different types of staging throughout history. They will understand elements of stage sound, lighting, scenery, and materials used to create successful staging. This is a prerequisite class to becoming a member of the
OJH Stage Production Team (The Crew).
With a successful completion of this course students will be invited to join the Stage Production class.
Stage Production (7th & 8th grade) full year
Stage production is an “on hands” experience where certified (students who have successful completed Stage Crew) students will operate the “day to day” happenings of the OJH auditorium. Students develop skills in designing, creating, and operating all aspects of the stage. Sound, Lights, Projecting, Filming, and Scenery Construction are all a part of the daily classroom activities. All assemblies, concerts, and events held in auditorium are operated by the crew, therefore students may have to work some evenings during specific events.
Instrumental Music
Cadet (Beginning) Band (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) full year
This course is for students who have never played a band instrument, or students who want to explore instruments other than the one they learned in elementary school. Students may choose from flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, or tuba. Students may switch to saxophone after learning the flute or clarinet in the first semester. This course will give students an opportunity to study, appreciate, and perform instrumental music in both a group and solo setting. Instruments are required. If available, instruments can be rented from the school for a nominal fee.
Cadet (Beginning) Orchestra (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) full year
This course is for students who would like to learn to play a violin, viola, cello, or string bass. No prior experience is necessary. This class will give students an opportunity to study, appreciate, and perform instrumental music in both a group and solo setting. Instruments are required. If available, instruments can be rented from the school for a nominal fee.
Concert Band (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) full year
This course is for students who have played for 2 to 3 years or who have completed a beginning level of band in elementary or middle school. Flute, clarinet, oboe, bassoon, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba, and percussion are the instruments that are played in this class. This course will give students an opportunity to study, appreciate, and perform instrumental music in both a group and solo setting. Instruments are required. If available, instruments can be rented from the school for a nominal fee.
Concert Orchestra (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) full year
This course is for students who have played for 2 to 3 years or who have completed a beginning level of orchestra in elementary or middle school. Violin, viola, cello, and string bass are the instruments that are played in this class. This course will give students an opportunity to study, appreciate, and perform instrumental music in both a group and solo setting. Instruments are required. If available, instruments can be rented from the school for a nominal fee.
Jazz Band (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) full year Requires Teacher Approval
This course is for students who have played for 2 to 3 years or who have completed a beginning level of band in elementary or middle school. Students will learn music notation, rhythm, tone quality, music theory, and many other performance practices. Jazz band is a band with the standard Big Band instrumentation, i.e., saxophones,
trumpets, trombones, and rhythm section (drum set, guitar, bass, piano). The jazz band rehearses and performs jazz, rock, pop, and Latin music. Students must be enrolled in a band or orchestra class during the day. The class meets from 7:00am-7:40am M-F.
Percussion (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) semester
This course is a beginning percussion class offered for students who wish to learn to play mallet keyboard instruments, drums, and other percussion related instruments. This class will give students an opportunity to study, appreciate, and perform instrumental music in both a group and solo setting. Bell kits, mallets, and sticks are required. If available, instruments can be rented from the school for a nominal fee.
Art
Art Foundations (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) semester
In Art Foundations 1 you will learn the elements and principles of design. How to draw anything using the general to specific principle. Bookbinding, drawing from life, color theory and watercolor. You will learn by creating your own work, critiquing your work, and by studying contemporary and historical masters.
Advanced Foundations (7th & 8th grade) semester *pre-requisite required In Advanced Art Foundations you will expand your understanding of the elements and principles of design. Learn proportions of the face and body. Explore new techniques with printmaking, graphite and stencils. You will use your knowledge and skills to create a final project of your own choice.
3D Design (7th & 8th grade) semester *pre-requisite required
In 3D Design you will apply the elements and principles of design to create three dimensional sculptures, objects, and installations using cardboard, paper, plastic, wire, and ceramics.
Media Arts (7th & 8th grade) semester *pre-requisite required
In Media Arts you will apply the elements and principles of design to create digital works of art for digital platforms. You will be using the Adobe Creative Cloud on your Chromebook. Special focus will be given to the design process, copyright, and artistic integrity.
Foreign Language
Spanish 1 (7th & 8th grade) full year
Spanish 1 will provide the student with a general introduction to the Spanish language: sound system, pronunciation, functional vocabulary related to everyday life, cultural information, and basic grammatical structures. Emphasis will be on the acquisition of four skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. There are two main objectives to the course. Foremost is to give the students the ability to carry on a simple conversation. The second is to provide the students with instruction that teaches a basic understanding of Spanish culture, vocabulary, and grammatical concepts. Verb tenses
learned are present indicative, affirmative commands, present progressive, and simple past tense.
Spanish 2 (8th grade) full year *pre-requisite required
Spanish 2 builds upon knowledge gained in Spanish 1. This course will also reinforce the skills learned in Spanish I: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Emphasis is on perfecting pronunciation, mastery of the basic grammatical structures, and increased communicative proficiency. Acquisition of functional vocabulary is expected. Students will be exposed to more past tenses, the present perfect, past progressive, and subjunctive mood. Students will be expected to apply them in their writing and speaking.
French 1 (7th grade) full year
A beginning introduction to the French language. In this class, you will be exposed to the language, and will learn by listening, speaking, and writing. You will love learning all about the different cultures where French is spoken, sampling French food (baguettes and crêpes), and listening to and singing French music. A highlight of our French class is going to dinner at La Caille for a genuine French meal! The goal of French 1 is to help you develop the confidence to continue with the language and get you excited to travel abroad! You will be able to order food at a French café, ask questions, and talk about your family and friends, hobbies, and interests.
French 2 (8th grade) full year *pre-requisite required
A beginning/intermediate continuation of French 1. In this class, you will add to your vocabulary and grammar and learn useful conversation. Your confidence in speaking will increase so much in the second year! You will engage in a lot more conversation with the other students and write stories and letters. This class involves much more writing and comprehension and there are some additional projects to complete. We learn even more about the French culture, including pop culture, sample real “Bûche de Noël’s” at Christmas, and go to dinner at La Caille with other French students. We also watch a few French films, favorites of Madame Wright!
CTE
Keyboarding (6th & 7th grade) semester
Keyboarding is designed to provide an opportunity to learn to touch type on the computer keyboard using correct techniques as well as the development of speed and accuracy. Students will be introduced to the formatting of personal and business letters, tables, notes, memos, and reports. We will also work with Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. No previous keyboarding experience required.
Creative Coding (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) semester
Love working with computers? Why not learn to program games? Creative Coding is an introductory course that will empower students with all manner of computer science skills for creativity, problem solving and fun! Students will be introduced to block code, HTML and JavaScript. This course is a half year (semester) course where students will create interactive cards, games and learn important skills for our changing technological world.
FACS Exploration A (7th & 8th grade) semester
This course provides students the opportunity to develop essential skills in the various career pathways related to Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS). Students will explore and cultivate skills in interior design, clothing and textile construction, fashion design and merchandising, consumerism, entrepreneurship and career and job-related tasks. This course will strengthen comprehension of concepts and standards outlined in Sciences, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education.
FACS Exploration B (7th & 8th grade) semester
This course provides students the opportunity to develop essential skills in the various career pathways related to Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS). Students will explore and cultivate skills in food and nutrition sciences, childcare, consumerism, entrepreneurship, family relationships, personal responsibility, and career and job-related tasks. This course will strengthen comprehension of concepts and standards outlined in Sciences, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education.
FACS Exploration (6th grade) semester
This course provides students the opportunity to develop essential skills in the various career pathways related to Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS). Students will explore and cultivate skills in food and nutrition sciences, childcare, interior design, clothing and textile construction, fashion design and merchandising, consumerism, entrepreneurship, family relationships, personal responsibility, and career and job-related tasks. This course will strengthen comprehension of concepts and standards outlined in Sciences, Technology, Engineering and Math (STEM) education.
STEM Concepts (6th grade) semester
STEM Concepts is a hands-on, project-based course that aids students in developing the ability to apply understanding of how the world works within and across the areas of science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). It promotes abilities to better problem-solve, analyze, communicate and understand STEM and its role in society. Students will learn the Engineering Design Process while designing, building and testing various projects, many of which they can take home.
Python 1 (7th & 8th grade) semester *pre-requisite required
Python 1 builds on the knowledge from the Creative Coding class. Python is high-level programming language that is used in many applications, including Game Development, Web Development, Scientific Data Exploration, Image Processing and other areas like robotics and autonomous vehicles. In this class students will learn how Functions, Conditionals, Nesting and Loops work in Python.
Python 2 (7th & 8th grade) semester *pre-requisite required
Python 2 builds on the knowledge from the Python 1. Python is high-level programming language that is used in many applications, including Game Development, Web Development, Scientific Data Exploration, Image Processing and other areas like robotics and autonomous vehicles. In this class students will learn about Sequences, their indexes, manipulation, and iterations. We will also learn about working with files in Python.
Exploring Tech 1 (7th & 8th grade) semester
This is a class for 7th or 8th graders to take. You will learn about some of the history of Technology. It will be a hands-on class with an emphasis on solving problems using the design process. We build catapults, air dragsters, super clips, and wind powered vehicles. You will also learn how to do 3D designing on the computer.
Exploring Tech 2 (7th & 8th grade) semester
This is a class for 7th or 8th graders to take. You will learn about some of the history of Technology. It will be a hands-on class with an emphasis on solving problems using the design process. We will build rockets, learn about the 6 simple machines, electronics and do some soldering.
Manufacturing Technology (8th grade) semester
This is a class for 8th graders only. You will learn about the history and processes of manufacturing, learn the safety, and use a lot of tools and equipment in the shop/lab. Manufacture items like cutting boards, penny hockey games, turn a pen/pencil on the lathe and other projects using the equipment in the shop/lab.
Other Electives
Creative Writing: Poetry (7th & 8th grade) semester
This semester-long class will cover some of the basics of poetry such as meter, rhyme, and poetic forms. Students will study some famous poems, as well as be introduced to some famous and influential poets. Students will write weekly to demonstrate understanding of the concepts covered. At the end of the semester, students will have a book of poetry compiled of writings from the semester. Students will participate in peer reviews, oral readings, and presentations. This class is open to 7th and 8th grade.
20th Century History (7th & 8th grade) semester
This is an elective class and a one semester class. In 20th Century History, we will explore important US historical and world events that are not covered in 8th Grade US History. The events and issues include, but are not limited to: World War I, Women’s Suffrage, the Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, the Civil Rights movement, the Space Race, and important 20th Century inventions.
Yearbook (8th grade) full year
This class is for the design and development of the OJH Yearbook. Students (Staffers) collaborate to develop skills in photography, organization, interviewing, copywriting, and desktop publishing skills. Staffers will be required to attend on campus events throughout the year to take photos to submit to the book. Staffers will learn to meet deadlines as we create the yearbook for the year end distribution. Other desktop publishing skills are developed (such as Brochure design) are also developed at the end of the year.
ELD- English Language Development (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) full year
This class is for multilingual students who next extra help in Language Development. Students will work on becoming proficient in English skills, no matter what level they are currently placed. This class follows the WIDA (World-Class Instructional Design and Assessment) curriculum from the district. WIDA develops and provides proven tools and support to help multilingual learners, and their educators, succeed. Students should speak with the counseling center to qualify for this class.
Student Government (6th, 7th, & 8th grade) full year *tryouts required
Students will develop leadership skills; promote service; direct and carry out school assemblies and school activities; and promote good citizenship and school spirit.
Library Practice (8th grade) semester Requires Librarian Approval
Library Practice is an elective class in which students learn information literacy, library procedures, and library maintenance. Students will become familiar with and assist in the daily operations of the school library including processing new materials, proper shelving, shelf reading, light cleaning. Library responsibilities may include help with maintaining computers and a/v equipment. Students will help patrons locate resources, take ownership over one section of the library, make deliveries, and help with other various duties. Course work will include tasks, lessons, and topics related to library operations, library marketing, and content from the USOE Library 6-12 curriculum. Book reviews will be required. Successful completion of the course will prepare students to access materials in other libraries and to apply for entry-level employment in a public library. This course will require assignments and assessments; however, homework will be limited if students are on task during the day. Students need to be self-motivated to complete coursework. This course requires that the student is in good standing with all teachers, and a minimum of a 3.0 GPA/CPA is required. Students must be self-motivated, trustworthy with privacy issues and have no ongoing discipline issues. Teachers/counselors/administration have the ulitimate decision for permission to take this course.
Office Aide (8th grade) semester
Assist Counselors and secretaries by delivering messages and packages to classrooms, helping to prepare packets for classroom presentations, assisting in orienting new students, and other duties as assigned. This course requires that the student is in good standing with all teachers, and a minimum of a 3.0 GPA/CPA is required. Students must be self-motivated, trustworthy with privacy issues and have no ongoing discipline issues. Teachers/counselors/administration have the ulitimate decision for permission to take this course.
