Middle Grade Elective Descriptions

2020-2021

Art
You do not have to be an artist to enjoy this class -- just use your
imagination -- express yourself -- try something different! Students will have
the opportunity to experiment and refine skills using a variety of art
materials. Students will learn the language of art to view, discuss and create
art. Come share your creative Falcon vision.
Semester Course

Falcon’s Crest
6th-8th grade mixed concert chorus class: this class is meant for any
students who enjoy singing and performing and does NOT require an
audition. This fun and exciting elective is a participation/performance based
class and there will be various performances/competitions throughout the
school year. Students will learn proper vocal techniques, as well as music
theory. There will be some cost involved in purchasing performance attire –
choral dresses and tuxes. Does your child love to sing and dance? In
chorus, your child will learn special rhythm and vocal techniques for how to
improve his/her singing voice. We will also focus on building confidence and
stage presence. There are two productions in the school year (Christmas
and Spring), in which your child will have the opportunity to showcase his or
her talents on stage.
Yearlong Course; $

Falcon News
Falcon News incorporates the skills learned in TV Production 1 and takes
them to the next level. Students will collaborate with others, be assigned a
day of the week and be responsible for producing a weekly news show.
Groups will use creativity, collaboration, and problem solving skills to
produce news packages each week. This class will also cover school events
and produce videos for events like Leadership Day.
Yearlong Course
Physical Education
Physical Education is a time for students to improve their physical fitness,
health and wellness knowledge, and sportsmanship skills. Students will be
expected to dress out and participate in individual and team sport activities.
Students will not only improve their physical skills but their leadership skills
as well.
Semester or Yearlong Course

Research Skills
Today information is at our fingertips or as easy as a voice command. Not all
information using our smart technology devices is accurate or credible. In this
course students learn not only how to complete valid online searches but also learn
and apply a combination of literature appreciation, research skills, and technology
skills related to research. Students will learn about primary and secondary sources,
report formats, styles, and content, and submission of a major independent
research project. This will include extensive use of print and online resources. The
basics of citing sources using M.L.A. guidelines will be included as well.
Semester Course

S.O.A.R. (7th and 8th graders only)

S​uccess in… ​O​rganization ​A​dvocacy ​R​eadiness
S.O.A.R. is course for 7th and 8th graders where they will develop and
reinforce skills, behaviors, and knowledge to successfully enter and complete
high school and beyond. Students will learn and apply study skills and
learning strategies to improve performance in the content areas.
Communication, goal setting, self-advocacy, public speaking, test strategies
and the use of technology to improve performance will be stressed. Students
will also learn organizational and study skills, develop critical thinking and
learn to ask probing questions. If you are interested in being a speaker for
master of ceremonies for events on campus like Leadership day, the class is
for you. Typically speakers will be chosen from students who have
completed this class.
This course is a required elective for incoming 7th graders prior to their 8th
grade graduation. Incoming 8th graders are highly recommended to take
the course.
Semester Course
Spanish (7th graders only)
¡Bienvenidos a la clase de español! T​ his introductory class in Spanish is a
prerequisite for taking 8th grade High School Spanish 1. In this class
students learn basic conversational skills as well as Spanish grammar
concepts. The course is taught with a variety of memory techniques and
learning games designed to keep learning fun.
Semester Course

S.T.E.A.M.
S.T.E.A.M. is an educational approach to learning that uses Science,
Technology, Engineering, the Arts and Mathematics as access points for
guiding student inquiry, dialogue, and critical thinking. This course will offer
students a full array of activities encompassing these disciplines. Throughout
the semester, students will be instructed in, research and participate in
group projects covering all areas of S.T.E.A.M. Students will research and
create an individual final project in at least one of the areas listed above.
The end results are students who take thoughtful risks, engage in
experiential learning, persist in problem-solving, embrace collaboration, and
work through the creative process. These are the innovators, educators,
leaders, and learners of the 21st century!
Students may be required to provide supplies from home.
Semester Course, $ or household supplies/items

TV Production
Television Production is a hands-on course teaching the basics of video
production. Students will collaborate with their peers to produce final videos.
Topics include: basic shots, how to, Public Service Announcements,
commercials, interviews, campus story and more. Students will learn how to
operate a camera, microphone and edit using WeVideo. Skills learned over
the course of the year can be applied to video production and editing for
broadcast television as well as personal video production.
Semester Course

Yearbook
Students will capture a school year full of memories to share with their
classmates. Students will be responsible for writing, captioning, layouts,
photographing and editing this publication. Creativity and hard work make
for a rewarding experience with this class. Teacher and administrative team
approval are required for this class.
Yearlong Course

Students: semester courses may not be repeated in the same

academic year.