Notes for Administrators:

·   All courses included on this document. Remove courses that will not be offered at your building or only offered to specific grade levels (IE Band I) from the checklist and the description area

·   Revise prerequisites based on your building practice

·   Note changes to ML and SPED courses

·   Remove this box when revisions are complete

Use the grade level course selection form to identify the necessary courses that support your personal pathway through middle school.

Required courses for all 6th grade students: ·   2 semesters of English ·   2 semesters of Mathematics ·   2 semesters of Science ·   1 semester of Social Studies ·   1 semester of Health ·   1 semester of Physical Education ·   1 semester of Visual and/or Performing arts ·   2 semesters semester of other electives (total of 3 elective semester)

 

English Language Arts
English 6     Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : None Other : None   In Grade 6 English, students focus on building important skills and knowledge areas for AP/College Readiness, including analyzing literary works through close reading, developing awareness of how stylistic effects are achieved by a writer, engaging in the writing process in an ongoing effort to achieve stylistic maturity, and using a wide-ranging vocabulary with attention to accurate denotation and purposeful connotation. Course content includes short stories, editorials, images-as-text, Shakespearean drama, and film. Students analyze literature, conduct research, and synthesize meaning from historical, cultural, and intellectual contexts while exploring the thematic concept of change. Analytical reading instruction extends understanding of literary elements, and language and writing instruction extends proficiency in the three modes of writing as outlined by the Common Core State Standards (CCSS): narrative, explanatory/informative, and argumentative.	Honors English 7   Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: There are no formal prerequisites for Honors English 7. It is recommended that students score a 3 or 4 on the ELA SBA and/or have demonstrated high levels of proficiency towards the 5th grade ELA standards. Other: Students will engage in 7th grade standards and content in this course. All Hi-Cap students should register for this course.   In Grade 7 English, students focus on developing important skills and knowledge areas for AP/College Readiness, including close reading and analysis of both literary and nonfiction texts, analyzing relationships among author’s purpose and desired effects for intended audiences, writing with an attention to selecting textual evidence and organizational patterns according to audience and purpose, and developing control of language and command of conventions required for academic writing. Course content includes personal narratives, mythology, persuasive advertising, full-length novels, and Shakespearean comedy. Students analyze literature, conduct research, and synthesize meaning from historical, cultural, and intellectual contexts while exploring the thematic concept of choice. Analytical reading instruction extends understanding of literary elements, and language and writing instruction extends proficiency in the three modes of writing as outlined by the Common Core State Standards (CCSS): narrative, explanatory/informative, and argumentative. In addition, students develop CCSS language standards.
Mathematics
Math 6     Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : None Other: None   In Grade 6 mathematics, instructional time focuses on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of number to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers; (3) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and (4) developing understanding of statistical thinking. Students engage in instruction aligned to the grade level common core state standards in mathematics.	Accelerated Math 6   Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: There are no formal prerequisites for Accelerated Math 6. It is recommended that students score a 3 or 4 on the Math SBA and/or have demonstrated high levels of proficiency towards the 5th grade math standards. Other: Students in this course will experience an accelerated math model meaning they will cover more content including grade 7 mathematical standards. Students should have a solid foundation in mathematics before considering this course.   In Accelerated Math 6, instructional time focuses on seven critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) developing understanding of and applying proportional relationships;  (3) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of number to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers; (4)developing understanding of operations with rational number ; (5) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and  linear equations; (6) developing understanding of statistical thinking and drawing inferences about populations based on samples.; and (7) working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume.
Accelerated Math 7   Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: Students must have taken Accelerated Math 6 as part of the Highly Capable Program in 5th grade. Other: None   In Accelerated Math 7, instructional time focuses on six critical areas:  (1) Solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric constructions, and working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area, and volume (2) Analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence; (3) Working with expressions, and analyzing and solving  linear equations; (4) Solving problems using algebraic expressions and equations (5)  Applying and extending previous understanding of operation to rational numbers (6) Using probability models; Drawing  interference about and  between two populations
Science
Science 6   Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : None Other: None   In grade 6 science and engineering, students articulate and use a set of norms to promote safe and equitable classroom culture that they will use as they investigate and explain phenomena. They learn how to ask different kinds of questions about the phenomenon and how to model what they figure out to explain the phenomenon. Through their investigations, they will work together to answer the following questions: ·   Why do we sometimes see different things when looking at the same object? ·   How can containers keep stuff from warming up or cooling down? ·   Why does a lot of hail, rain, or snow fall at some times and not others? ·   What causes Earth’s surfaces to change? ·   Where do natural hazards happen and how do we prepare for them? ·   How do living things heal?
Social Studies
History 6   Length : One Semester Prerequisites : None Other: None   In grade 6 World History, students are ready to deepen their understanding of the Earth and its peoples through the study of history, geography, politics, culture, and economic systems. The recommended context for social studies learning in sixth grade is world history and geography. Students begin their examination of the world by exploring   the location, place, and spatial organization of the world’s major regions. This exploration is then followed by looking at world history from its beginnings. Students are given an opportunity to study ancient civilizations and other major world societies deeply. In this way, students develop higher levels of critical thinking by considering why civilizations developed where and when they did and why they declined. Students analyze the interactions among the various cultures, emphasizing their enduring contributions and the link between the contemporary and ancient worlds. By balancing depth and breadth, teachers provide students with the opportunity to gain enduring understandings that world history has to teach us about ourselves and our world.

 

Physical Education and Health

Physical Education – Foundational 6   Length : One Semester Prerequisites : None Other: None   This course provides students the opportunity to learn through a developmentally appropriate, comprehensive, and sequentially planned physical education program aligned with the Physical Education Standards and Grade Level Outcomes for Washington State. In grade 6, the content standards emphasize working cooperatively to achieve a common goal. The focus of this course is the development of movement skill combinations and movement skill knowledge; the assessment and maintenance of physical fitness to improve health and performance, and the requisite knowledge of physical fitness concepts, principles, and strategies; and the application of psychological and sociological concepts, including self-responsibility, positive social interaction, and group dynamics, in the learning and performance of physical activity. Units of activity include: soccer, pickleball, basketball, fitness & circuit training, invasion games, track and field, volleyball, rhythm/dance, wamba ball/cricket, and ultimate frisbee/frisbee golf. Students will also be educated in goal setting, exercise anatomy (muscles and bones), heart rate, and components of health and skill related fitness. Students will also see social skill development through cooperation, teamwork, sportsmanship, and confidence building.

Health 6   Length : One Semester Prerequisites : None Other: None   Middle School Health Education 6 provides students with knowledge, attitudes, and skills to make health-promoting decisions. This classes address the physical, mental, emotional, and social dimensions of Health. Health is not a one-time decision but a series of decisions continuing throughout our lives. Students will begin to develop a level of comprehension and understanding in the areas of Personal Wellness, Mental and Emotional Health, Drugs, Alcohol, and Tobacco, Body Systems and Disease, Nutrition, Safety, and Human Sexuality. All of the Health Education curriculum is in place to meet the Washington State Health Education Standards.

 

Elective Options
Performing Arts Electives
Band I   Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : None Other: None   Beginning band offers students an opportunity to join band at an introductory level. This course provides students with instrument choice, introductory playing skills as well as an introduction to reading music. Students in this course will spend time familiarizing themselves with the instrument as well as learning how to play individually and as part of a group. Students are expected to practice instruments at home on a daily basis.	Band II   Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : See counselor/teacher   Other: None   Students are expected to have previous experience in playing an instrument and have ability to read music. The focus of this course will be around skill building in relation to playing the chosen instrument as well as reading music. Students will continue to practice independently as well as develop their ability to play as a group.
Band III   Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : See counselor/teacher    Other: None   Students are expected to have previous experience in playing an instrument and have ability to read music. The focus of this course will be around advanced skill building in relation to playing the chosen instrument as well as reading and playing more advanced music. Students will continue to practice independently as well as develop their ability to play as a group.	Choir I   Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : None Other: None   Beginning choir offers students an opportunity to join choir at an introductory level. This course provides students with an introduction to choir including using their voice, learning to read music and learning to sing independently and as a group. This course will offer musicians time to advance their music skills and knowledge.
Choir II   Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : See counselor/teacher   Other: None   Students are expected to have previous experience in choir. The focus of this course will be around advancing skills in individual singing voice, reading skills, and large group choral singing.	Choir III   Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : See counselor/teacher     Other: None   Students are expected to have previous experience in choir, the ability to read music, sing independently and sing as part of an ensemble. The focus of this course will be around advancing skills in individual singing voice, reading skills, and large group choral singing at a more advanced level.
Prelude Orchestra   Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : None Other: None   Prelude orchestra offers students an opportunity to join orchestra at an introductory level. This course provides students with an introduction to orchestra. Students choose their instrument, learn basic rhythms and basic music reading skills. Students practice independently as well as with the larger Prelude group. Students are expected to practice at home each night.	Intermezzo Orchestra   Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: See counselor/teacher   Other: None   Intermezzo orchestra offers students with prior stings experience an opportunity to further advance their rhythms, music reading skills and provides more advanced musical selections. Students will continue to practice independent skills as well as further solidify their work as an ensemble.

 

Chamber Orchestra   Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: Contact teacher/counselor for more information regarding this course. Other: None   Chamber orchestra offers students with more advanced prior stings experience an opportunity to further their rhythms, development of advanced strings skills, and advanced music reading skills. Students will continue to practice independent skills as well as further solidify their work as an ensemble while focusing on advanced musical selections.	General Music   Length: One Semester Prerequisites: None Other: None   General Music offers students an opportunity to learn about music across genres. Students may engage in singing, playing instruments and learn about the history of musical movements. This semester long course is intended to help students learn about music without the requirement of musical performances.
Visual Arts Electives
Art 6   Length : One Semester Prerequisites : None Other: None   Throughout the visual art 6 course, students will learn about art through a variety of mediums including drawing, painting, clay and modeling. Students engage in a variety of projects and reflections that are aligned to the 6 th grade Washington State Art Standards.
Physical Education Electives
Lifetime PE   Length : One Semester Co-requisite : Physical Education – Foundational 6 Other: Students in grades 6-8 may take this course   This class is designed for students interested in improving their physical fitness through avenues outside the scope of the foundational classes, including but not limited to: resistance and strength training, cardiorespiratory, muscular strength, muscular endurance, and flexibility activities. Students will be educated on training principles, techniques, and injury prevention.  Individual sports such as bowling, archery, badminton, tennis, track and field, yoga, circuit training, pickleball, and more. Students will continue developing social skills in cooperation, encouragement, and confidence building Units may vary depending on school, and equipment availability.

 

STEM Electives
Exploring Industrial Tech 6   Length : One Semester Prerequisites : None Other:   Schools: EVG, GWY   This course introduces students to the safety and tools of an industrial shop. Students will develop and utilize their knowledge and skills to design and produce a variety of projects. Industrial Tech is a foundational course in the Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing Pathway.	Exploring Robotics   Length: One Semester Prerequisites: None Other:    In this STEM-based class, students will utilize coding and engineering to think critically, develop solutions to problems, test solutions, collect and interpret data, and demonstrate an understanding of science processes. Intro to Robotics is a foundational course in the Engineering & Advanced Manufacturing Pathway.
Integrated Technology 1   Length: One Semester Prerequisites: None Other: Multi-age course 6-8.   This course introduces students to various areas of technology. Students will utilize skills and knowledge to create a range of projects through the semester. Integrated Tech I is a foundational course in Computer & Information Systems Pathways.
Other Electives
AVID 6   Length : Two Semesters Prerequisites : None Other: 6 th grade course only Schools: NOR, HWD   This course is designed to support motivated, capable students in pursuing a rigorous course of study leading to acceptance and success in a four-year college or university. Through a variety of instructional techniques, students develop skills in higher-level thinking, writing across the curriculum, and reading strategies for accessing challenging course material. Students develop time management, note taking, research, organization, and other skills fundamental to success in higher-level Math, Social Studies, English, Science and World Language courses. Students Participate in College, career, and cultural exploration activities, including field trips.

 

Special Education Course Options
English Language Arts 6   Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : IEP team placement Other : Resource Room class placement   In Language Arts 6 students focus on accessing literature and informational texts in English. They also write narrative, informational and argumentative essays aligned to the Common Core State Standards. Speaking & listening, and language are also areas of focus as outlines by the grade level standards. The scope and sequence provide flexibility for students to develop proficiency towards grade level standards and meeting the student specific IEP goals. Students engage in learning with Language Live and Springboard curricular materials dependent on present levels of performance. Students work in large group, small group and independent settings throughout this year-long course.	English 6     Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: IEP team placement Other: Co-taught model   In Grade 6 English, students focus on building important skills and knowledge areas for AP/College Readiness, including analyzing literary works through close reading, developing awareness of how stylistic effects are achieved by a writer, engaging in the writing process in an ongoing effort to achieve stylistic maturity, and using a wide-ranging vocabulary with attention to accurate denotation and purposeful connotation. Course content includes short stories, editorials, images-as-text, Shakespearean drama, and film. Students analyze literature, conduct research, and synthesize meaning from historical, cultural, and intellectual contexts while exploring the thematic concept of change. Analytical reading instruction extends understanding of literary elements, and language and writing instruction extends proficiency in the three modes of writing as outlined by the Common Core State Standards (CCSS): narrative, explanatory/informative, and argumentative.
Math Support 6   Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: IEP team placement Other: Resource Room class placement   In Grade 6 mathematics, instructional time focuses on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of number to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers; (3) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and (4) developing understanding of statistical thinking. Students engage in instruction aligned to their IEP goals as well as grade level standards. Throughout this course students engage in large group, small group, and individual instruction to help support their present level of proficiency in math.	Math 6     Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: IEP team placement Other: Co-taught model   In Grade 6 mathematics, instructional time focuses on four critical areas: (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) completing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of number to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers; (3) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and (4) developing understanding of statistical thinking. Students engage in instruction aligned to the grade level common core state standards in mathematics.
Skills for Success 6   Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: IEP team placement Other:   For students attending the Life Skills program. Based on individual goals and objectives, students focus on adaptive skills required in daily life.	Learning Lab 6   Length: Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites: IEP team placement Other:   For students receiving special services and support with reading, writing, and/or mathematics. Course work is based on individual goals and objectives.

 

Multilingual Learner Course Options
English 6 and English Language Development Support 1   Courses : 2.0 (two period block course) Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : WIDA score of 1.0-1.9, Teacher/team recommendation Other : This is a two-period block class. One course specifically focuses on English Language Arts. The other course focuses on English Language Development.   In English 6 students focus on accessing literature and informational texts in English. The scope and sequence provide flexibility for students to develop proficiency towards grade level standards. The ELD 1 course offers students an opportunity for specific learning around English language development specific to students with beginning level English. Students work on speaking and listening skills in English. In addition, they begin to work on reading and writing skills to support their work in English Language Arts.   *Note – Some classes could be taught concurrently with 7 th grade students (at the same proficiency level) and will need differentiation.	English 6 and English Language Development Support 2                                   Courses : 2.0 (two period block course) Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : WIDA score of 2.0-3.9, Teacher/team recommendation Other: This is a two-period block class. One course specifically focuses on English Language Arts. The other course focuses on English Language Development.   In English 6 students focus on accessing literature and informational texts in English. They begin to address more complex texts aligned to their current level of proficiency. The scope and sequence provide flexibility for students to develop proficiency towards grade level standards. The ELD 2 course offers students an opportunity for specific learning around English language development specific to students with intermediate level English proficiency. Students work on more advanced speaking and listening skills in English. In addition, they engage in more advanced reading and writing skills to support their work in English Language Arts.   *Note – Some classes could be taught concurrently with 7 th grade students (at the same proficiency level) and will need differentiation.
English 6   Course : 1.0 Length : Two Semesters (Yearlong) Prerequisites : WIDA score of 4.0-4.6 Other : This is a one period stand-alone English Language Arts course for advanced ML students. Advanced students do not need to take an additional English Language Development support class.   In English 6, students focus on building important skills including analyzing literary works through close reading, developing awareness of how stylistic effects are achieved by a writer, engaging in the writing process, and developing grade level academic vocabulary knowledge. Course content includes short stories, editorials, images-as-text, drama, and film. Students analyze literature, conduct research, and synthesize meaning from historical, cultural, and intellectual contexts. Throughout this course, students also receive embedded English Language Development support as determined by current proficiency towards grade level standards.

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