Course Descriptions

Designed to involve the student in applying reading, writing, listening, speaking, and viewing skills in an independent manner through meaningful interdisciplinary tasks. Students will continue to develop an appreciation for literature through the study of literary elements in classic and contemporary selections. Emphasis is placed on moving from the literal to the abstract in the students’ critical thinking skills and in the use of language. All content is based on the Common Core standards.

6th Grade Social Studies
Ancient civilizations are the main focus in sixth grade Social Studies. Students practice critical thinking by interpreting primary sources and studying history through eyewitness accounts. Themes in 6th Grade Social Studies include geography, economics, government, world religions, and achievements. Cultures studied: Mesopotamia, Egypt, Israel, India, China, the Americas, Greece, and Rome. Textbooks include Glencoe’s Discovering Our Past: Ancient Civilizations, TCI’s History Alive.

7th Grade Social Studies
Focuses on the social, cultural, and technological changes that occurred in Europe, Africa, and Asia from the expansion and disintegration of the Roman Empire through the Age of Reason (500-1789 AD). Students study great civilizations developing throughout the world during medieval and early modern times emphasizing the effects of economic interaction as well as the exchange of ideas, beliefs, technologies, and commodities.

8^th Grade Social Studies
Focuses on United States history up to World War I. Specific areas of focus include: the Colonial Era, Revolutionary War, Westward Expansion, The Civil War and Reconstruction, and Industrialization.  Students will gain understanding of United States history through critical thinking and by participating in act-it outs, experiential exercises, collaborative projects, creative writing, and other project based activities.

Immersion Social Studies
This class is taught only in Spanish, using textbooks in Spanish, which mirror those that are used in the English only classroom. Curriculum changes depending on each grade level. We start with Ancient World, cover The Medieval Period, and then focus on the foundations of American History.

6th Grade Math
Preparation work for middle school and high school math. Big emphasis on division and proportional reasoning.

7th Grade Math
Ratio, proportion, percent. Addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of rational numbers. Solving equations and inequalities. Scaling, area, and perimeter of rectangles, triangles; Circumference and area of a circle.

8th Grade Math
Heavy on equations with an emphasis on linear equation functions and geometry.

8th Grade Math and High School Integrated One
This is a two period math class that will cover 8th grade math standards in the first semester and high school integrated one math standards the second semester.

LMS offers a choice of three science courses. All courses are aligned with Next Generation Science Standards.

Science
Next Generation Science Standards: communication, collaboration, inquiry, and problem solving through 3-Dimensional Learning.

Agriculture Science

Agriscience I
This is our introductory agriscience class, available to all 6th grade students. Over the course of a year, students will study the functions and structures of cells and organisms, learn to identify types of matter and explain how energy transfers occur, describe and create models of the systems of Earth’s weather and climate, including the water cycle, and use their scientific knowledge to design and interpret research that identifies human impact on the environment. This class earns students the same science credit as a grade 6 general science course, with the added benefit of being enrolled in FFA!

Agriscience II
This class is available to all seventh grade students, and is the second course in the agriscience pathway. Students in Agriscience II will learn how to identify and create chemical reactions, provide evidence that matter transfer occurs between organisms, describe interdependent relationships between ecosystems, explain the history of the earth, and create models that demonstrate the cycles of mineral, energy and water systems in the earth. This class earns students the same science credit as a grade 7 general science course, with the added benefit of being enrolled in FFA!

Agriscience III

The capstone class in the agriscience pathway, this course is available to all 8th grade students. Students in Agriscience III will explore the laws of physics and biology through an agricultural lens, learning to identify how forces act when they make contact from small and large distances, describe the unique environments and qualities of the planets in our solar system, and describe how natural selection and genetics have shaped the many species that inhabit the Earth. This class earns students the same science credit as a grade 8 general science course, with the added benefit of being enrolled in FFA!

Project Lead the Way / Engineering
This course offers science with a focus in engineering. Students are offered their grade level Next Generation Science Standards through project based learning. In addition, the course simultaneously incorporates Project Lead the Way curriculum, an introductory course in engineering/technology, with the science curriculum. This course is offered as an engineering pathway and/or individual grade level courses; 6th grade Automation and robotics, 7th grade Design and Modeling, 8th grade Flight and Space. (a limited number of students will be admitted based on GPA, work habits, and science grades). www.mendozaweb.com

LMS offers a choice of several PE classes. All Physical Education courses cover PE state standards

Regular Physical Education
Soccer, football, basketball, and other modified games; fitness testing; cardiovascular activities.

Dance PE
Physical Education taught through movement and dance. This class is a performance-based class. Participation in performances outside of school hours is a requirement.

Advanced Dance PE
Advanced dance is for those who have had previous studio dance experience in both tap and jazz. This group is both a competitive and performance based group and will have community performances and competitions. This class also counts for PE credit.

Intermediate Dance
Intermediate Dance PE for those who have had previous dance experience in both tap and jazz. This group is a performance based group and will have community performances and has the option to compete along with the advanced class.

Advanced Physical Education
A yearlong class designed for students who have a desire to compete with other schools in a variety of sports. This class will cover techniques, skills and drills for both team and individual sports. Students must qualify academically.

Color Guard P.E.
Color Guard P.E. is a performance group that uses various equipment, such as flags, imitation rifles, sabres and other visual props, to interpret the music for the eyes of the audience.

Exploratory Wheel (Art, Coding, Career Explorations)

Students will participate in a 12 week rotation that allows them to experience three different electives throughout the year. Each trimester will bring a whole new class and teacher without changing their schedule. This wheel offers classes in Art – 3D Design, Computer Coding, and Career Explorations. Courses may change based on enrollment.

3D Art Design
3D Art Design is a studio project class emphasizing exploration of various sculptural media. This course builds creative and problem solving skills with the elements and principles of design. Projects may include ceramics, cardboard, origami, wire sculpture, paper mache, and recycled art.

Computer Coding
This section of the wheel focuses on learning how to write computer code. You will be using various coding websites and platforms that use a simplified coding language and serves as a basis for understanding Python, which is one of the most popular languages used around the world. In a trimester setting, you will learn how to use coding programs through the lens of video games such as Angry Birds and Minecraft, as well as learning how to use coding to program robotics.

Career Exploration
In this engaging class, students will have the opportunity to explore a wide range of exciting career fields through hands-on projects and interactive learning experiences. This class is designed to introduce students to diverse industries, spark their creativity, and help them discover their interests and talents. Some topics covered in the course include: Digital Video Production, Finance, Graphic Arts, Digital Audio Production, Computer-Aided Drafting and Design (CADD), Robotics, Flight and Drone Technology, Culinary Arts, Structural Engineering

Advanced Art
If you’re committed to and consumed by the world of art, this is the class for you. Find and define your personal style as you create 2- and 3-D works using a variety of media and methods. This is a year-long, projects based elective class for highly motivated students. Our visual arts curriculum includes recognizing art as a form of communication and expression, identifying and using the elements and principles of art and design, and exploring the role of artists in society throughout history, all while having fun in a nurturing and safe environment. Students are encouraged to take risks, think critically, and solve problems visually. This class requires the teacher’s signature.

Studio Art
Open to 6th, 7th, & 8th grade students. This course is designed for students to explore and experience creative expression, critical evaluation, and develop an appreciation for the Visual Arts. While learning about the elements and principles of design, students will develop their drawing, painting, and inking skills. A variety of famous artists and movements throughout history will be presented. Students will master new art vocabulary, art methods and techniques, and will form a deeper connection to the fine arts. This course is open to all students who would like to participate in a fun and creative atmosphere.

Introduction to Art
If you are curious about art making and visual composition, this is the class for you! This is a beginner level course for any student interested in having exposure to visual art. This is a year-long class that will focus on developing technique, learning art vocabulary and exploring various media. Students will learn the elements of art and the studio habits of mind. Students will gain experience critiquing art through self reflection and peer evaluation. This class is for anyone who wants to make art projects in a fun and relaxing environment.

3D Art
Student artists will learn to translate their 2-dimensional ideas into 3-D forms while exploring personal expression through guided assignments. Student artists will develop perceptual, creative and technical problem-solving skills through the exploration of sculpture using materials that may include clay, paper-mache, wire, fabric and other mixed media. This course incorporates hands-on art activities and is appropriate for all levels.

Intro to Digital Arts Foundations
This year long course is for students looking to enter the world of creating Art pieces using digital medium. In this course we will introduce and explore the many elements of creating and refining digital art. The course will explore the basic principles of design and how to use them, as well as tools such as Adobe programs like Photoshop and Illustrator. Emphasis will also be placed on researching career fields and job opportunities available in the world of digital art from digital marketing to concept art.

Digital Illustration
This year-long course explores the tools, techniques and careers available to those interested in digital illustrations. Students will use Adobe programs such as Photoshop and Illustrator to learn techniques for creating digital drawings. Throughout the duration of the class students construct a portfolio of digital illustrations to be used for recommendation to the Advanced Digital Illustration course.

Graphic Design
This year-long course explores the tools, techniques and careers available to those interested in Graphic Design. Students will use Adobe programs such as Photoshop and InDesign to learn techniques for the processes of digital design and marketing. The course will cover a wide range of areas from logo design to advertisements. Throughout the duration of the class students construct a portfolio of Designs to be used for recommendation to the Advanced Graphic Design course.

Advanced Digital Illustration
This year-long course expands on the tools and techniques covered in Digital Illustration. Students will use Adobe programs such as Photoshop and Illustrator to construct a portfolio of digital art pieces for use in exhibitions, art shows and scholarship opportunities.

Advanced Graphic Design
This year-long course expands on the tools and techniques covered in Graphic Design. Students will use Adobe programs such as Photoshop and InDesign to construct a portfolio of digital art pieces for use in exhibitions, art shows and scholarship opportunities.

Beginning Band
This yearlong class is open to entering 6th grade students who wish to continue learning a band instrument they started in 5th grade as well as 6th, 7th & 8th grade students who are new to music and wish to start learning an instrument. Students learn to read and write music while they learn the skills of playing an instrument. We also use technology to teach music concepts through the use of our computer lab and classroom recording equipment. These students perform two concerts during the year. Instruments taught are the following: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, euphonium, tuba and percussion. Some families choose to provide their own instruments, however, the school does have many instruments available to borrow at no charge. Prior music education is helpful but not necessary to succeed in this class. After one year of Beginning Band students may take Advanced Band. Students who wish to play percussion in Beginning Band will start out the year playing a wind instrument and then after the first couple weeks of school a limited number of students will be selected to play percussion. Criteria for choosing the students that are allowed to play percussion will be based on in-class behavior and effort.

Beginning String Orchestra
This yearlong class is open to entering 6th grade students who wish to continue learning an orchestra instrument they started in 5th grade as well as 6th, 7th & 8th grade students who are new to music and wish to learn an instrument. Students learn to read and write music while they learn the skills of playing a string instrument. We also use technology to teach music concepts through the use of our computer lab and classroom recording equipment. These students perform two concerts during the year. Instruments taught are the following: violin, viola, cello, and string bass. Some families choose to provide their own instruments, however, the school does have many instruments available to borrow at no charge. Prior music education is helpful but not necessary to succeed in this class. After one year of Beginning Orchestra students may take Advanced Orchestra.

Advanced Orchestra
This yearlong class is open to 7th and 8th grade students who have successfully completed one year of Beginning Orchestra. This class emphasizes performing and the continuing development of musicianship skills. The students will perform in numerous events during the year including concerts, festivals and assemblies. Some families choose to provide their own instruments; however, the school does have many instruments available to borrow at no charge. Students who successfully complete this class may take orchestra in high school.

Advanced Band
This yearlong class is open to 7th and 8th grade woodwind and brass students who have successfully completed one year of Beginning Band. The Advanced Band class emphasizes performing and the continuing development of musicianship skills. The students will perform in numerous events during the year including concerts, festivals, a parade and assemblies. Some families choose to provide their own instruments, however, the school does have many instruments available to borrow at no charge. Students who successfully complete this class may take band in high school.

Chorus
This is a year-long course that explores choral music from a wide variety of cultures and time periods through study and performance. The core curriculum emphasizes the basics of vocal technique, sight-reading, music theory, and music history. Students in Chorus are expected to participate in performances throughout the school year as part of their grade. Open to all grade levels.

Show Choir
Must audition to be in Show Choir. Auditions are in April prior to the upcoming school year. Performing Arts class that focuses on singing and dancing. Students are required to participate in many performances, including evenings and weekends. Open to all grade levels. Audition information will be available as soon as possible. Get those songs ready! If you have questions, email me at kmessina@lsusd.net.

ASB
This class is designed for students to learn and practice leadership skills. Students will be given the opportunity to become involved in a wide variety of school and community activities and will study the basics of leadership. Open to grades 7 / 8.

Drama
LMS Drama is a musical theater performance class for 6th-8th grade students. In the 6th grade class, students will learn Musical Theater basics and put on a short play. In the 7th-8th grade class, students will learn leadership and technical theater skills in addition to advanced acting, auditioning, and vocal music skills. Open to all grade levels.

Publications / Yearbook
Publications is a year-long class which has as its main focus the production of the school yearbook. Students will work in a digital environment, creating page layouts utilizing the Jostens Yearbook Company on-line tools. Students will learn the fundamentals of good design concepts for page layouts as well as the fundamentals of good photography. Students will learn the importance of meeting deadlines and working in a team to accomplish a goal. Students will also learn how to use a variety of Photoshop techniques to create original graphic designs. Open to grades 7 / 8.

Science Projects / Engineering Focus
This elective focuses on exploring STEAM careers and the skills needed in these fields. STEAM (science, technology, engineering, arts, and math) is the use of arts, engineering, and math to interpret science and technology through hands-on projects. Students will explore many careers such as, game design, Architecture, Civil Engineering, Photography, Audio/Sound Development, Animator, Automotive Technology, Broadcast Technician, Culinary Technician, Website Design, and many more. Students will learn problem solving and life skills through innovation and design while exploring careers in various fields. Open to all grade levels.

Science Projects / FFA Focus
This elective class will further develop the leadership skills of the agriculture student. Students will practice for various speech, leadership and debate contests, form committees and plan their year of FFA activities, take pictures and organize their scrapbook for FFA competition. Students must be enrolled in agriculture science. Grade 7/ 8

Spanish
Beginning Spanish is a fun way to learn basic conversational Spanish. This course will focus on the patterns of conversation, essential vocabulary, and simple grammatical structures to develop skills in listening, speaking, reading and writing Spanish. We will also explore the diverse traditions and rich culture through a variety of activities. Open to all grade levels.

Spanish Literature Immersion Class
Is a culture driven class where students experience the many facets of Spanish speaking countries and learn about the literature, music, and behavioral nuances. The study of certain regions expose students to other ideas and customs, which often define the Spanish speaking societies. Open to students in the Immersion program or fluent in Spanish.

Study Hall
Study hall is a class for students to complete homework/classwork from other classes. A weekly grade is given for being on task during class. A planner check is also done weekly, with points received for filling the planner with each class’s homework and/or classwork, for all classes, all week. Open to all grade levels.

Woodshop
Woodshop is a hands-on, project based class for 7th-8th grade students. Students will learn proper safety skills, use of tools, and woodworking basics then apply and demonstrate those skills by constructing an assigned project. Upon completion of their first project students are given the opportunity to design, plan, and build a project of their choice. Open to grades 7 / 8.

Sports Leadership
Open to grades 6, 7, and 8. Must apply in the counseling office and maintain B or above in citizenship across all classes and have a GPA of 2.0 or higher. If you like to be outside and in charge of sports and games, this is the elective for you! Sports Leadership organizes the lunchtime games; runs tournaments, referees games, set-up/clean-up, and gets to enjoy being a leader and organizer of their peers during lunchtime activities.

Technical Theater Class
This class will focus on the behind the scenes aspects of theatrical productions. Students will learn to safely use woodshop tools to plan and build props and sets. They will also learn the technology side of theater such as lighting, sound, special effects, and video production. Students will be expected to use the skills they learn to produce school announcements and work on after school theatrical, dance, and choir productions.