The following yearlong courses are required for all 7th and 8th grade students:
English
Mathematics
Social Studies
Physical Education
Each 7th and 8th grade student will also take these required trimester-long courses:
7th grade
Science 7A – Students receive an introduction to the electromagnetic spectrum, light, and the structure and physiology of cells.
Science 7B – Human body systems are introduced including the musculoskeletal system, digestive system, cardiovascular system and respiratory system.
Health Education 7/8 Nutrition
8th grade
Science 8A – Investigates the chemical world emphasizing matter, elements and compounds, chemical reactions, and the solar system and galaxies.
Science 8B – Focuses on the physical world concentrating on motion, forces, energy, sound and light.
Health Education 7/8 Nutirion
Electives - As part of Magnolia’s focus to provide a balanced education, all 7th and 8th grade students will also take either a yearlong elective or 3 trimester-long enrichment courses.
Yearlong Electives are offered as follows:
Starmakers: Students rehearse a variety of vocal music styles and participate in numerous festivals and concerts. Course also explores choreography and prepares music and dance in the “showpop” style. This class requires a large time commitment for practice and performances. Open to 7th and 8th graders – audition required.
Bella Voce-Rattler Chorus: Open to 7/8 graders who enjoy singing. This class explores a wide variety of vocal music styles including classical, folk, world, pop, and Broadway. Students participate in music festivals and school and community performances.
Gold/Green Band: This class builds on skills acquired through previous instruction and is focused on developing more advanced techniques. Students participate in required music festivals and school and community performances.
Drama: Open to 7th & 8th graders. The overall emphasis of this class is on developing public speaking and performance skills. Trimester one: acting techniques, acting games, short performance pieces, & film studies. Trimester two: full-scale stage production with acting, back stage management & set design opportunities. Trimester three: write, film, and edit a short movie with iMovie.
Hardcover Yearbook: Students learn journalistic techniques and skills through the publication of the school yearbook and begin development of a school newspaper. Students who are interested in running for student council officer are advised take this class.
Trimester Courses available to 7th and 8th graders: Students take 3 during the year
Please Note: Yearlong electives preclude students from taking any enrichment courses.
Academic Workshop: Academic Workshop: Study hall type class designed to provide instruction in organizational skills and provide extra help to struggling students. This class may be required by administration based on academic performance during the school year.
Advanced Woodworking: Available 3rd trimester to students who wish to expand their knowledge and skills in advanced woodworking techniques and projects. (Prerequisite: Woodworking)
Art: Introduces students to the basic skills of drawing, painting, graphic design, animation, and three-dimensional projects including: origami, weaving, block printing, theater, set design, costume design, prop work and puppetry. Students will also work in claymation with a focus on storyline development, line delivery and voice studies. Projects may vary by trimester.
Computer Technology: This course will teach students how to create DVD's using iMovie and iDVD. Students will learn how to edit film, create titles, transitions, use audio and video special effects, and create DVD labels. A minimum of 2 DVD's will be created during this trimester class. Also included in this course will be Powerpoint, Google Earth, and Web Page design projects. Finally all students will be able to refresh the basic computer skills with a variety of word processing and spreadsheet projects.
Introduction to Spanish Language Lab: This course takes place in a language lab setting utilizing interactive technology and a teacher facilitator. This class would be a great introduction for students interested in enrolling in Spanish I in high school. Students who started the program in 7th grade may continue in the program in 8th grade.
Trimester Courses available to only 8th graders – Students take 3 during the year.
Library Aide: Students will learn cataloging, research and customer service skills. Letter grades are earned based on ability to follow directions and perform assigned tasks.
Office Aide: Students learn basic filing, sorting, and telephone procedures. Importance is placed on receiving and giving messages courteously and accurately. Students are graded individually on their ability to follow instructions and perform assigned tasks.
Classroom Aide: Students will learn filing, copying and tutoring skills. Students will work under the supervision of a classroom teacher or instructional aide. Grades will be earned based on the student’s ability to follow instructions and perform assigned tasks. Students assigned to the technology lab as tech aides will learn troubleshooting, video, software and student/staff assistant skills.
Technology Aide: Students assigned to the technology lab as tech aides will work with students and teachers in the lab helping them to integrate the daily curriculum with technology. They will act as assistants to Mr. Peach. Grades will be earned based on the student’s ability to follow instructions, be helpful and perform assigned tasks. They will also do some filming, take pictures when needed, and perform basic technolgy tasks for teachers.
