Connections Class Descriptions
|
Course Name |
Description |
Course Length |
|---|---|---|
|
Health |
The mission of the Physical and Health Education department is to develop healthy and physically educated individuals. Students will acquire knowledge and develop skills enabling them to make responsible choices and promote a lifestyle of holistic well-being. It is a program designed to help students develop the knowledge, understanding, attitudes and skills necessary to participate actively and responsibly in a changing world. |
One Semester (content changes each year/students may take Health in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades) |
|
Physical Education |
The mission of the Physical and Health Education department is to develop healthy and physically educated individuals. Students will acquire knowledge and develop skills enabling them to make responsible choices and promote a lifestyle of holistic well-being. It is a program designed to help students develop the knowledge, understanding, attitudes and skills necessary to participate actively and responsibly in a changing world. |
One Semester (content changes each year/students may take PE in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades) |
|
DLI Media Literacy |
This is a class for DLI Students People spend hours consuming content every day, but do you know how it's trying to influence you? In this 100% Spanish DLI course, you won’t just be a "user"—you’ll become a digital detective. You will learn to outsmart algorithms, spot "fake news," and understand the global culture that shapes your world. You will also analyze the lyrics and messages of global hits to see how music reflects—and changes—the Spanish-speaking world. Finally, you will watch and critique Spanish-language series and films, learning to spot the storytelling secrets directors use to make you feel a certain way. This isn't just a language class—it’s a survival guide for the 21st century! |
One semester (content changes each year/students may take this course in 6th, 7th, and 8th grades) |
|
7th Grade Performance Guitar (Advanced Year Long)
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The 7th grade guitar course is designed to elaborate on foundational guitar skills learned in the 6th Grade Intro to Guitar. Students will be introduced to advanced skills while broadening their music literacy. Students will have the opportunity to play in multiple concerts with whole group and small group practice in class! |
Year Long |
|
8th Grade Guitar Ensemble (Advanced Year Long)
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The 8th Grade Guitar Ensemble collaborates advanced guitar skills with music literacy to provide students with the skills to read and write music (Tab and Notation). Students will have multiple concert opportunities with whole-group and small group practice in class! |
Year Long |
|
Intro to Guitar
|
The Intro to Guitar course at SMS is designed to teach students the foundations of guitar by reading music / tablature! Concert opportunities may be available! |
One Semester |
|
Semester Long Theatre Arts |
The semester long theatre arts class serves as an introductory course for theatre arts and will learn skills in ensemble building, theatre history, acting techniques, behind the scenes elements, and more. Students will have the opportunity to develop their skills in class with public speaking and presentations, while learning about how their favorite actors got to where they are today. |
One Semester |
|
Year Long Theatre Arts |
The yearlong theatre arts class allows students to advance their theatre arts skills by learning more about different theatre aspects, including but not limited to ensemble building, musical theatre history, monologues, and acting skills. Students in yearlong theatre will also perform a full one act play in the spring semester by developing their characters and technical skills as a class. |
One Year |
|
Yearbook |
In this course students will gain skills in page design, advanced publishing techniques, copywriting, editing, and photography while producing a creative, innovative yearbook which records school memories and events. There is an emphasis on journalism skills in this class. Participants gain useful, real world skills in time management, marketing, teamwork, and design principles. |
Year Long |
|
Broadcast and Graphic Communications |
This class will explore the exciting world of communications, covering a range of topics from journalism to filmmaking. Key Learning Areas: ● Media Careers: Discover the different jobs within the media industry, such as reporters, photographers, videographers, and graphic designers. ● Hands-on Projects: Work in teams to create your own media projects, including videos, news segments, and presentations. ● Technical Skills: Learn how to use cameras, editing software, and other tools used in media production. ● Creative Skills: Develop your storytelling abilities through scriptwriting, storyboarding, and planning. ● Communication Fundamentals: Understand the principles of effective communication, including clear writing, strong presentation skills, and ethical considerations. ● Graphic Design: Explore the world of visual communication, learning about design principles, graphic software, and the importance of creating visually appealing messages. This course will provide you with a solid foundation in media and communication, preparing you for future studies or potential careers in this dynamic field. |
Semester or Year Long
|
|
Dance |
Dance explores a variety of dance styles, including jazz, hip-hop, and modern. Students will develop fundamental dance techniques, improve coordination, and increase flexibility and strength. The course emphasizes creative expression and personal growth through movement. |
Semester Long and Year Long |
|
Chorus |
Middle School Chorus is a vibrant and engaging class designed to foster a love of music. Students will develop their vocal skills through a variety of musical experiences, including: ● Vocal Technique: Warm-ups, breathing exercises, and vocal production techniques to improve tone, range, and diction. ● Repertoire: Learn and perform a diverse selection of choral music, including classical, contemporary, folk, and world music. ● Sight-reading: Develop the ability to read and perform music at sight. ● Music Theory Basics: Explore fundamental music concepts such as rhythm, melody, and harmony. ● Performance Opportunities: Participate in school concerts, festivals, and other performance events. This class emphasizes teamwork, collaboration, and a positive learning environment where students can express themselves creatively through music. |
Year Long |
|
Visual Art |
This course provides students with a foundation in the principles and elements of art. Through a variety of hands-on projects and explorations, students will develop their creativity, problem-solving skills, and artistic expression. Key areas of study may include: ● Drawing: Techniques such as line, shape, value, perspective, and figure drawing. ● Painting: Exploring different mediums like watercolor, acrylics, and mixed media. ● Sculpture: Working with three-dimensional forms using various materials. ● Printmaking: Experimenting with techniques such as linocut and monoprinting. ● Design: Principles of design, including balance, contrast, rhythm, and emphasis. ● Art History: Brief introductions to major art movements and influential artists. Students will learn to analyze artworks, develop their own artistic voice, and communicate their ideas through visual means. |
Semester Long |
|
Band
|
Current band students must select band as your FIRST CHOICE. You may select band even if you have never played an instrument. |
Year Long |
|
Orchestra |
Current orchestra students must select orchestra as your FIRST CHOICE. You may select orchestra even if you have never played an instrument. |
Year Long |
|
Business/Computer Science |
This computer science course will provide students with a foundation in fundamental computer science concepts. Through engaging activities, hands-on projects, and creative problem-solving, students will learn to: ● Develop Computational Thinking Skills: Learn to break down complex problems into smaller, more manageable steps, identify patterns, and develop algorithms. ● Code with a Beginner-Friendly Language: Gain experience with a beginner-friendly programming language such as Scratch, Python, or JavaScript. ● Understand Computer Systems: Explore the basic components of computers and how they work together. ● Explore Digital Citizenship: Learn about online safety, digital etiquette, and the ethical considerations of technology. ● Develop Creative Projects: Apply their coding skills to create interactive stories, games, animations, and other creative projects. |
Semester Long |
|
Digital Arts |
This exciting course will introduce students to the world of digital art and design. Using industry-standard software and creative tools, students will explore a wide range of digital techniques, including: ● Image Editing: Learn to manipulate and enhance photographs, create digital collages, and retouch images using software like Photoshop or GIMP. ● Graphic Design: Design logos, posters, brochures, and other visual communications using software like Illustrator or Canva. ● Digital Painting: Create stunning digital artwork using drawing tablets and software like Procreate or Krita. ● Animation: Explore the principles of animation and create simple animations using software like Adobe Animate or Scratch. ● 3D Modeling: Learn basic 3D modeling techniques and create 3D objects using software like Tinkercad or Blender. This course will foster creativity, problem-solving, and technical skills while providing students with a valuable introduction to the exciting world of digital art and design. |
Semester Long |
|
General Music |
General Music is an exploratory course designed to foster a love of music and develop a deeper understanding of its elements. Through a variety of engaging activities, including listening, singing, playing instruments, and creating music, students will: ● Explore Music History: Learn about different musical styles and genres throughout history, from classical to contemporary. ● Develop Musical Skills: Improve listening skills, learn basic music theory concepts (rhythm, melody, harmony), and develop vocal and instrumental skills. ● Experience Diverse Musical Cultures: Explore music from different cultures around the world. ● Engage in Creative Expression: Compose and improvise music, participate in group performances, and develop their own unique musical voice. ● Use Technology in Music: Explore music technology through software, apps, and electronic instruments. |
Semester Long |