McCord Junior High School
Program of Studies

Administration: Principal | Mr. Josh Tyburski
Assistant Principal | Mrs. Susan Felver

Guidance Department:
School Counselor (Last name M-Z) | Ms. Val Long
419.824.8650 Ext. 4204 | vlong@sylvaniaschools.org 

School Counselor (Last name A-L) | Mrs. Bethany McCarthy
419.824.8650 Ext. 4205 | bmccarthy@sylvaniaschools.org 

KNOWLEDGE McCord students are open to learn and embrace new ideas and concepts. We are active participants in
our academic growth.

INTEGRITY McCord students show consideration towards others. We are willing to share and help everyone. We are honest. We are trustworthy.

DISCOVERY McCord students embrace tolerance and celebrate diversity. We strive to improve our academic and social relationships.
We welcome all.

RESPECT McCord students display kindness towards others. We value compassion.
We are polite.

Dear Students and Parents,
We are excited about the menu of course options that will be available at McCord for the upcoming school year. Please read the course descriptions in this booklet. An understanding of the broad goals of these courses is your first step toward success at McCord Junior High School and preparing you for your high school years. Please keep in mind these suggestions:

STUDENTS:
●	Develop an organizational system.
●	Use your agenda book / homework matrix daily.
●	Keep in touch with your teachers - know how and when to talk to them.
●	Use PowerSchool Account.

PARENTS:
●	Know your child's schedule and teachers.
●	Keep in contact with school - be visible.
●	Attend as many functions as possible.
●	Remain an active part of your child's education.
●	Contact counselors for updated information.
●	Use PowerSchool Account.

We want you to enjoy a rich experience that will prepare you to meet the goals you have for the rest of your life after you leave McCord Junior High.

Sincerely,

Josh Tyburski, Principal

 Junior  High  Honors  Program 
Honors courses are available in each of the four core areas. English Language Arts, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Students have to be recommended into
honors courses. 6th graders can take a maximum of two honors courses, 7th and 8th graders can take a maximum of three honors courses. Accelerated courses such as Algebra count as one of those courses.

 McCord Junior High Schedule Change  Policy Occasionally students or parents request schedule changes throughout the school year for a variety of reasons. Due to our growing student population, class size, and various schedule constraints McCord requires the following to occur prior to considering a schedule change for students:
1.	A student and/or their parent should contact their school

counselor and/or an administrator to discuss concerns or issues they might be having with a certain class.
2.	If these concerns have not already been brought to the classroom teacher’s attention we will discuss the most appropriate way for this to happen depending on the situation.
3.	Teachers will be notified of class change requests and will assist in resolving concerns with students and parents.
4.	Develop a resolution specific to the situation.
5.	Revisit as needed.
This is McCord’s general schedule change request
policy. Extreme or severe situations are handled differently depending on the nature and severity of the situation.

 McCord Junior High Teacher Request  Policy  Requests are becoming increasingly difficult to honor due to our continuously growing student population, sharing teachers with four different buildings, teachers teaching more than one subject and/or more than one grade level, and the need to balance class sizes. We will consider your request if the factors above make it possible. In order to formally request a teacher please put your request in writing prior to the end of the school year to Josh Tyburski and your child’s guidance counselor. Teacher requests are reviewed and granted when possible prior to the start of the school year.

 McCord Junior High Failure Policy
6th and 7th Grade students failing 3 or more quarters of any core subject area may be required to do the following:
1.   Successfully complete an agreed upon number of subject area hours/work that demonstrate mastery of the subject or subjects that were failed.
2.   The manner in which this is completed will be mutually established between the student, parent and an administrator during the Summer prior to the next school year.
8th grade students failing 3 or more quarters of any core subject will be required to retake the course during Sylvania Schools Summer School Program.

 Required  and  Elective  Courses  for  8th  Grade  Students 
McCord offers a 7 period day, plus a 26 minute Intervention / Enrichment class at the end of the day. Listed below are the five required courses. as well as the full list of electives offered to 8th grade students. Students may select two electives from the options below. Please note that some students are recommended for certain electives based upon their individual needs.

 High School Course Add/Drop Policy
Students dropping a course after (5) school days will receive an “F” for the semester unless it is dropped with written teacher recommendation. Teacher recommendation will be based on the following criteria:
1.  The student sought assistance from the teacher.
2.  The student has taken advantage of any available academic assistance.
3.  The student’s work does not indicate the ability to meet minimum course requirements with conscientious effort.

Core / Required Courses	Elective Courses

●	English Language Arts
●	Math
●	Science
●	Social Studies
●	8th Grade Elective Rotation
○	Physical Education / Health (semester)
○	S.T.E.M. (quarter)
○	Information Technology (quarter)

Reading *Recommended Spanish I *1 HS Credit French I *1 HS Credit German I *1 HS Credit Art 8
Band 8
Orchestra 8
Choir 8
Introduction to Musical Performance
Media Assistant *Must meet criteria

ENGLISH (year)
Students focus on and read grade and ability level texts in a range of genres.  Students follow the writing process to produce arguments, informational texts, and narratives. They work to ensure that development, organization and style are appropriate to task, purpose, and audience. Vocabulary, grammar, and research lessons are included in reading and writing instruction. Speaking and listening skills are also addressed to ensure that students are working towards college and career readiness.

HONORS ENGLISH (year)
This class offers depth, complexity, variety, and accelerated pacing appropriate to advanced learners. Students develop skills in analysis, interpretation, oral communication, vocabulary, and research. In addition, students read classic and contemporary literature and challenging informational texts in a range of genres. Deeper analysis is required during the writing process as student’s produce arguments, informational texts, narratives enhanced complexity--while still ensuring task, purpose, and audience.

MATH I (year)
Students grow in their ability to reason effectively with information represented in graphic, numeric, symbolic, and verbal forms. The curriculum is accommodated to meet diverse learning needs. Student materials are organized into

units, each of which focuses on a core set of important, related mathematical ideas. The units include: rational numbers, data representation, surface area and volume, variables, tables, graphs, symbolic representations, and linear functions.

MATH II (year)
Students will learn to bring to problem situations the ability to analyze and manipulate mathematical ideas. Instruction emphasizes inquiry and discovery of mathematical ideas through investigation of rich problem solving situations. Student materials are organized into units, each of which focuses on a core set of important, related mathematical ideas including: data representation and analysis, variables, tables, graphs and symbolic representations, transformations, linear and nonlinear functions, inequalities, algebraic method of equation solving, exponential relationships and quadratic functions.

MATH HONORS (year)
Students will learn to bring to problem situations the ability to analyze, manipulate and extend mathematical ideas. Instruction emphasizes inquiry and discovery of mathematical ideas through investigation of rich problem solving situations. Teacher recommendation is required for enrollment in this course. Student materials are organized into units, each of
which focuses on a core set of important, related mathematical ideas including: data representation and analysis, variables,

tables, graphs and symbolic representations, transformations, linear and nonlinear functions, inequalities, algebraic method of equation solving, exponential relationships and quadratic functions.

ALGEBRA I HONORS (year)
Algebra I is the same as the course taught  in Sylvania’s high schools. Students will earn high school credit for the course.
 The  grade  earned  will  be  on  their  high  school  transcript  and 
 will  be  factored  into  their  overall  G.P.A.  upon  entering  high
 school  as  a  freshman.   Topics include:   basic operations  on signed    numbers,    fundamental    concepts   of    exponents, factoring,  and  solutions  of  linear  and  quadratic  equations. Enrollment is limited on the basis of the 7th  grade teacher recommendation and several test score criteria.  One hour of homework   each   night   can   be   expected.   High   school ADD/DROP policy applies for this course.    Algebra I is a prerequisite for Honors Science 9.

HONORS GEOMETRY (year)
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation and Algebra I In addition to all of the concepts covered in the regular geometry course, students will develop skills in critical thinking, logical reasoning, and problem solving. Emphasis is given to the structure of geometry and the development of direct proofs. Proof-writing skills are developed by beginning with short and simple ideas that gradually lead to more complex proofs. Students will understand how geometry grows from observations and common relationships. Students will study examples of geometry in the physical world and how to use geometric concepts to solve problems. Other ideas that are developed include: trigonometry, indirect proofs, inductive reasoning, non-Euclidean geometries, transformations, and symmetry. Throughout the course students will utilize algebraic skills and develop constructions using a compass
and a straight edge . The grade earned will be on  their  high
 school transcript and  will be factored into their overall  G.P.A. 
 upon  entering  high  school  as  a  freshman. 

SCIENCE (year)
This course will explore the world of science touching on Earth, Life, and Physical Science. Units will include; Scientific Inquiry, Introduction to Earth, Plate Tectonics,
Earthquakes and Volcanoes, Geologic Time, Plant and Animal Life Cycles, Genetics, Forces of Motion, and Electromagnetism. Background information includes skills
and laboratory techniques and application of the scientific method. The self inquiry method is used to enable the students to grow in self-discipline and responsibility. Reference books, current printed materials, student textbooks, models, and audio visual materials are used as aids in learning. Student
evaluation is based on concepts learned and the ability to use the scientific method.

SCIENCE HONORS (year)
Honors Science 8 offers an 8th grade science curriculum with depth, complexity, variety, and accelerated pacing appropriate to advanced learners. The curriculum focuses on helping students use scientific inquiry to discover patterns, trends, and

relationships that are related to the studies of earth, space, physical, and life sciences. Students will explore the topics of: the Physical Features of Earth; Forces and Motion; and Species and Reproduction. Emphasis on laboratory safety and scientific processes such as conducting scientific investigations, developing laboratory measurement skills, analyzing and interpreting data, and thinking logically and critically are woven throughout these areas of focus.

SOCIAL STUDIES (year)
Students explore the development of the United States from the Pre-Colonial Period to the Civil War and Reconstruction. Students become acquainted with contributions made by people who came to this country and formed the “American” culture. Units include the creation of the U.S., the growth of democracy, westward expansion, the preservation of the “Union,” and a knowledge and understanding of the Constitution

SOCIAL STUDIES HONORS (year)
Honors Social Studies 8 is designed for the advanced and/or gifted 8th grade student who has a strong interest in the field of American History and plans to pursue Honors and/or AP social studies courses in high school. Student collaboration utilizing developmentally appropriate inquiry-based learning, problem solving, project-based learning, lectures, discussions, and debates, Honors Social Studies 8 gives an in-depth treatment to the topics covered to make connections to 21st
century events that continue to impact the world as we know it today. Honors Social Studies 8 utilizes a number of informational sources, both print and digital, to illustrate the aftermath of events ranging from the early explorers through Reconstruction. An in-depth study of primary sources will capture the political implications, the economic effects and the social implications of America’s history in order to prepare students for the rigor of Honors American History 10 and/or AP United States History 10.

RECOMMENDED READING (year)
Eighth Grade Recommended Reading provides additional support and skill building in nearly all skill areas involving Reading. Instructors analyze individual student data from classroom performance, past individual student record information, State and STAR testing, and teacher recommendations to design their instruction.  The purpose of this class is to help students gain skills and confidence in all Reading areas. Because this class is designed to provide explicit Reading skill building and support much of the work will be done in class with little work coming home. Students must be recommended to take this course.

READING ELECTIVE (year)
7th & 8th grade Reading as an elective is new for the 2017-18 school year. This elective has been developed as an enrichment opportunity for those students with a love and passion for Reading. Using both fiction and nonfiction texts students will participate in activities that explore themes, concepts, and cross curricular applications. This class will

allow students to demonstrate their comprehension and interpretation different texts using a variety of creative media.
**This elective may change depending upon interest and staff availability. Detailed information regarding this elective will be available later into third quarter or the beginning of the 4th quarter.

INTRODUCTION TO MUSICAL PERFORMANCE  (year)
The Introduction to Musical Theater class will explore history,  career  opportunities,  singing,  dancing,  acting  and other areas related to musical theater.  Students can expect to sing, dance and act in scenes from Broadway musicals in groups and as individuals.  We will begin the year with some history about Broadway and musical theater while spending a couple days each week singing and dancing.   Students will learn about characterization, stage terminology, theater careers and production.  Students will complete several individual and group projects including a final project that will have the students writing and performing their own mini musical. This class will have opportunities to perform for peers and family members.

FRENCH I / SPANISH I / GERMAN I (year)
The French, Spanish, and German courses are the equivalent of French I, Spanish I, and German I at the high school level. Students  will  earn  high  school  credit  for  the  course.    The 
 grade  earned  will  be  on  their  high  school  transcript  and  will 
 be   factored   into   their   overall   G.P.A.   upon   entering   high 
 school  as  a  freshman. Emphasis is given to language skills of pronunciation,    vocabulary,    grammar,    reading,    writing, conversation  and  awareness  of  the  French,  Spanish,  and German cultures. High school ADD/DROP policy applies for this course.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 8 (9 weeks)
This course is a continuation of Information Technology 7, designed to provide students with a working knowledge of computer concepts and essential skills necessary for work and communication in today’s society. Students will earn safety, security  and  ethical  issues  in  computing  and  social networking. Students will also learn fundamental concepts in personal finance, credit, banking, and career exploration. This course also builds upon the keyboarding skills learned from
6th grade and places more of an emphasis on speed and accuracy.

STEM (9 weeks)
STEM 8 is a continuation of STEM 7. Students in the STEM program acquire knowledge and skills in problem solving, teamwork, and innovation. Students explore STEM careers as they participate in a project-based learning process, designed to challenge and engage the natural curiosity and imagination of middle school students. Teams design and test their ideas using modeling, automation, robotics, mechanical and computer control systems, while exploring energy and the environment.

MEDIA CENTER/CLASSROOM ASSISTANT (year)

Students scheduled as a Media Center or Classroom Assistant are assigned a variety of tasks based upon McCord’s Main Office,   Media   Center,   and   individual   classroom   needs. Students help with office and classroom clerical tasks and errands.   They also assist teachers with organizational tasks and peer tutoring.  Any student may request to be a Media Center/Classroom  assistant.     However, this assignment requires a high level of trust and responsibility. Only students in good academic and behavioral standing will be considered.

INTEGRATED PHYSICAL EDUCATION (18 weeks) Integrated health and physical education is a semester course, which allots four weeks for health instruction and fourteen weeks of physical education. Students are expected to change clothes for class.   Shorts or sweatpants, T-shirts and proper athletic   shoes   are  required.  Physical  education  activities covered are ultimate frisbee, speedball, lacrosse, badminton, and  volleyball.  Two-three  days  per  week  are dedicated to fitness  activities.  Evaluation  is  based  on  participation  and effort. Fitnessgram is now used as our assessment program. Topics  covered  in  health  are  drugs and alcohol use, body image, eating disorders and goal setting. Grading is based on assignments and tests.

ART 8 (year)
Art class combines the concepts of process, product and understanding to support both cognitive and creative development. The curriculum is designed to advance content knowledge and skills in the following areas: visual literacy, personal expression through art production, creative problem solving,  recognition  of  the  role and importance of art and artists in society, culture, and history, critical assessment of artwork from aesthetic and cultural perspectives, and technical studio processes.

BAND (year)
Prerequisite: enrollment in seventh grade band or approval of the director.    Eighth grade band is a requirement for participation in the high school bands.  Rehearsals include fundamental drill, sectionals, small ensemble playing and concert preparation. Through participation, students have the opportunity to improve their musical skills and knowledge. Opportunities exist for enrichment activities such as Solo and Ensemble competition and District Honors Band.  Evaluation is based on fulfillment of practice requirements and improvement  of  performance  skills  demonstrated  by  the student through written and playing tests.   Attendance at scheduled performances is required.

ORCHESTRA (year)
Prerequisite:    enrollment in seventh grade orchestra or approval of the director.    Eighth grade orchestra is a requirement for participation in the high school orchestra. Rehearsal fundamentals include scales, rhythms,   positions, and vibrato.  Opportunities exist for enrichment activities such as Solo and Ensemble competition and District Honors Orchestra.   Evaluation is based on fulfillment of practice requirements and improvement of performance skills demonstrated by the student through written and playing tests.

Attendance at scheduled performances is required.

CHOIR (year)
This is a group performance class for students who enjoy singing and would like an opportunity to develop their vocal skills while learning and performing choral music. Students learn beginning sight singing skills, harmony parts, and how to present   themselves   to   an   audience.   Any   student   may

participate in choir but they must understand that full participation  is  expected.  Repeated  lack  of  participation, and/or behavioral issues will result in removal from this class.
7th grade choir students requesting to take 8th grade choir must pass 7th grade choir. The Choir instructor  reserves the right to deny acceptance to 8th grade choir based upon based behavioral concerns with administrative approval.

8th Grade Scheduling Worksheet

CORE SUBJECT AREA / REQUIRED COURSES
Course Name / Details	Course Length
MATHEMATICS: Recommendation made by Math Teacher
◯	Essentials Mathematics 8 - I	Full year
◯	Mathematics 8 -  I	Full year
◯	Mathematics 8 - II	Full year
◯	Mathematics 8 -  Honors *Recommendation Only	Full year

◯	Algebra I Honors *1 HS Credit - recommendation only
◯	Geometry Honors *1 HS Credit - recommendation only

Full year
Full year

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS: Select 1 Level
◯	Essentials English Language Arts 8	Full year	
◯	English Language Arts 8	Full year	
◯	English Language Arts Honors *Recommendation Only	Full year	
SCIENCE: Core Subject Requirement
◯	Science 8
◯	Science 8 Honors *Recommendation Only	Full year
SOCIAL STUDIES: Core Subject Requirement:
◯	Social Studies 8
◯	Social Studies 8 Honors  *Recommendation Only	Full year
ACADEMIC ROTATION: Required
Physical Education / Health	Semester
✔	S.T.E.M.	Quarter
Information Technology	Quarter
INTERVENTION / ENRICHMENT : Required for ALL Students
✔	Intervention / Enrichment - 26 minute Homeroom Class	Full year

ELECTIVE / ENRICHMENT COURSES	
Course Name / Details	Course Length	
Elective/Enrichment Courses:	Total of 2 courses		
◯	Reading *Recommended	Full year
◯	Spanish I *1 HS Credit	Full year
◯	French I *1 HS Credit	Full year
◯	German I *1 HS Credit	Full year
◯	Art 8	Full year
◯	Band 8	Full year
◯	Orchestra 8	Full year
◯	Choir 8	Full year
◯	Introduction to Musical Performance	Full year
◯	Media Assistant *Must meet criteria	Full year
◯	Enrichment Reading	Full year	

 Required  and  Elective  Courses  for  7th  Grade  Students 
McCord offers a 7 period day, plus a 26 minute Intervention / Enrichment class at the end of the day. Listed below are the five required courses. as well as the full list of electives offered to 8th grade students. Students may select two electives from the options below. Please note that some students are recommended for certain electives based upon their individual needs.

 McCord  Junior  High  Failure  Policy  for  7th  Grade  Students 
6th and 7th Grade students failing 3 or more quarters of any core subject area may be required to do the following:
1.	Successfully complete an agreed upon number of subject area hours/work that demonstrate mastery of the subject or subjects that were failed.
2.	The manner in which this is completed will be mutually established between the student, parent and an
Administrator during the Summer prior to the next school year.

Core / Required Courses	Elective Courses

●	English Language Arts
●	Math
●	Science
●	Social Studies
●	7th Grade Elective Rotation
○	Physical Education / Health (semester)
○	S.T.E.M. (quarter)
○	Information Technology (quarter)

Reading *Recommended
Reading Choir Band Orchestra
Exploratory Block
○	Exploratory French (quarter)
○	Exploratory Spanish (quarter)
○	Exploratory Art (quarter)
○	Exploratory Music (quarter)

ENGLISH (year)
Seventh-grade English focuses on short story and novel study, composition writing, vocabulary enrichment, grammar usage, and public speaking. Short stories and novels are the basis for studying literary elements such as style, theme, setting, characterization, and plot development. In addition, composition development focuses on sentence and paragraph structure, grammar usage, precise language, and creativity. Working with weekly vocabulary exercises, students study definitions, pronunciations, spelling usage and roots. The use of correct grammar and the eight parts of speech are explored throughout the year. Students are also required to present informative, demonstrative and persuasive speeches to complete the communication requirement.

HONORS ENGLISH (year)
This class offers depth, complexity, variety, and accelerated pacing appropriate to advanced learners. Students develop skills in analysis, interpretation, oral communication, vocabulary, and research. In addition, students read classic and contemporary literature and challenging informational texts in a range of genres. Deeper analysis is required during the writing process as student’s produce arguments, informational texts, narratives enhanced complexity--while still ensuring task, purpose, and audience.

RECOMMENDED READING (year)
Seventh grade recommended reading provides additional support and skill building in nearly all skill areas involving Reading. Instructors analyze individual student data from classroom performance, past individual student record information, State and STAR testing, and teacher recommendations to design their instruction.  The purpose of this class is to help students gain skills and confidence in all Reading areas. Because this class is designed to provide explicit Reading skill building and support much of the work will be done in class with little work coming home. Students must be recommended to take this course.

READING ELECTIVE (year)
7th & 8th grade Reading as an elective is new for the 2017-18 school year. This elective has been developed as an enrichment opportunity for those students with a love and passion for Reading. Using both fiction and nonfiction texts students will participate in activities that explore themes, concepts, and cross curricular applications. This class will allow students to demonstrate their comprehension and interpretation different texts using a variety of creative media.
**This elective may change depending upon interest and staff availability. Detailed information regarding this elective will

be available later into third quarter or the beginning of the 4th quarter.

MATH I (year)
The curriculum emphasizes significant connections among various mathematical topics. The relationship between mathematical ideas and “real world” problems offer students opportunities to apply their skills and revisit concepts. Student materials are organized into units each of which focuses on a core set of important, related mathematical ideas. The units covered include: computation and understanding rational numbers, understanding integers, percent reasoning, ratio, rates, proportional reasoning, probability surface area and volume.

MATH II (year)
Instruction in this class emphasizes inquiry and discovery of mathematical ideas through investigation of rich problem situations. Student materials are organized into units, each of which focuses on a core set of important, related mathematical ideas. Students will be expected to reason effectively with information represented in graphic, numeric, symbolic and verbal forms, and move flexibly among these representations. The concepts covered will be: computation and understanding rational numbers, understanding integers, percent reasoning, ratio, rates, proportional reasoning, the relationship between two variables, surface area and volume, and probability with expected values.

MATH HONORS (year)
This course incorporates all of the same concepts in Math II. In addition, this course will cover conceptual algebra, including multi-step equations, inequalities and problem solving using an algebraic approach. Rational numbers are stressed and principles and properties of all operations are developed. Students selected for Math III must demonstrate an excellent background in mathematics and skill development, and be able to verbalize their understanding.
They will be expected to apply their knowledge to higher level thinking skills.

SOCIAL STUDIES (year)
This course covers several areas of world history. Emphasis is placed on understanding ancient historical events and the culture of the civilizations being studied throughout the year. Students will develop an awareness of how civilizations functioned, flourished, and eventually declined, as well as become aware of the contributions these ancient people have given to the development of Western Civilization. The units covered will expose students to a variety of cultural experiences and knowledge from ancient Greece, the Roman Empire, the Middle Ages, and global exploration.

SOCIAL STUDIES HONORS (year)
Honors Social Studies 7 is designed for the advanced and/or gifted 7th grade student who has a strong interest in the field
of World History and plans to pursue Honors and/or AP social studies courses in high school. Student collaboration utilizing developmentally appropriate inquiry-based learning, problem

solving, project-based learning, lectures, discussions, and debates, Honors Social Studies 7 provides areas of historical inquiry for investigation throughout the course. Honors Social Studies 7 utilizes a number of informational sources, both
print and digital, to illustrate the aftermath of events ranging the Eastern Hemisphere ranging from topics of the ancient empires (Greek, Roman, Islamic, Chinese, and Japanese), the Middle Ages, the Renaissance, and global exploration. An
in-depth study of primary sources will capture the geographic reasons for the movement of people, products and ideas, political implications, and the economic effects of the empires/regions of the ancient civilizations in preparation for the rigor of Honors World Studies.

SCIENCE (year)
This course covers several aspects of physical, life, and earth sciences. Physical science will mainly revolve around the concept of conservation of mass and energy, with an emphasis on the flow of energy in a system. The life science portion of the course will be devoted to the main concept of cycles in matter and the flow of energy through an ecosystem. Lastly, the earth science units will emphasize cycles and patterns of the Earth and the Moon. The use of hands-on activities and cooperative learning strategies are used to reinforce the major concepts in an inquiry-based manner. Students will learn to think for themselves, make connections to the real world, and problem solve on a more scientific level.

SCIENCE HONORS (year)
Honors Science 7 offers a 7th grade science curriculum with depth, complexity, variety, and accelerated pacing appropriate to advanced learners. The curriculum focuses on helping students use scientific inquiry to discover patterns, trends, and relationships that are related to the studies of earth, space, physical, and life sciences. Students will explore the topics of: Cycles and Patterns of the Earth and Moon; Conservation of Mass and Energy; and Cycles of Matter and Flow of Energy. Emphasis on laboratory safety and scientific processes such as conducting scientific investigations, developing laboratory measurement skills, analyzing and interpreting data, and thinking logically and critically are woven throughout these areas of focus.

EXPLORATORY FRENCH and SPANISH (9 weeks) Exploratory French and Spanish are nine week courses offered to seventh grade students to introduce them to the various aspects of foreign language. Basic pronunciation, vocabulary and culture are covered. French and Spanish are part of the exploratory block.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 7 (9 weeks)
This first course in the IT career field is designed to provide students with a working knowledge of computer concepts and essential skills necessary for work and communication in today’s society. Students will learn safety, security, and ethical issues in computing and social networking. Students will also learn about input/output systems, computer hardware and operating systems, and office applications. This course also builds upon the keyboarding skills learned from 6th grade and

places more of an emphasis on speed and accuracy.

STEM 7 (9 weeks)
Students in the STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math) program acquire knowledge and skills in problem solving, teamwork, and innovation. Students explore STEM careers as they participate in a project-based learning process, designed to challenge and engage the natural curiosity and imagination of middle school students. Teams design and test their ideas using modeling, automation, robotics, mechanical and computer control systems, while exploring energy and the environment.

ART (9 weeks)
Art class combines the concepts of process, product and understanding to support both cognitive and creative development. The curriculum is designed to advance content knowledge and skills in the following areas: visual literacy, personal expression through art production, creative problem solving, recognition of the role and importance of art and artists in society, culture, and history, critical assessment of artwork from aesthetic and cultural perspectives, and technical studio processes.

INTEGRATED PHYSICAL EDUCATION (18 weeks) Integrated health and physical education is a semester course, which allots four weeks for health instruction and fourteen weeks of physical education. Students are expected to change clothes for class. Shorts or sweatpants,  T-shirts and proper athletic shoes are required. Physical education activities covered are team handball, basketball, soccer and softball. Two-three days per week are dedicated to fitness activities. Evaluation is based on participation and effort. Fitnessgram is now used as our assessment program.

Topics covered in health are human growth and development, tobacco use and physical activity. Grading is based on assignments and tests. Students also receive a week of D.A.R.E. education from a police officer, with topics of concern that the city of Sylvania deals with on a daily basis.

EXPLORATORY MUSIC (9 weeks)
Students in this class will be introduced to a variety of music

styles. Students will also learn about the development of music, both pop and traditional. There will be an emphasis on music theater, pop music in choral form, and the rich tradition of American music, including spirituals, ragtime, jazz, swing and the blues. Music history, theory and composition will also be covered in this interactive class.

BAND (year)
Prerequisite: enrollment in sixth grade band or approval of the director. Rehearsals include fundamental drill, sectionals, and concert preparation. Through participation, students have the opportunity to improve their musical skills and knowledge. Opportunities exist for enrichment activities such as Solo and Ensemble competition. Evaluation is based on fulfillment of practice requirements and improvement of performance skills demonstrated by the student through written and playing tests. Attendance at scheduled performances is required.

ORCHESTRA (year)
Prerequisite: enrollment in sixth grade orchestra or approval of the director. Rehearsal fundamentals include scales, rhythms, positions, and vibrato. Opportunities exist for enrichment activities such as Solo and Ensemble competition. Evaluation
is based on fulfillment of practice requirements and improvement of performance skills demonstrated by the student through written and playing tests. Attendance at scheduled performances is required.

7th Grade CHOIR (year)
This is a performance class for students who enjoy singing and would like an opportunity to develop their vocal skills while learning the basics of performing choral music. Students learn beginning sight singing skills, simple choreography, easy harmony parts, and how to present themselves to an audience. Admittance to the class is by audition and by teacher recommendation. Opportunities exist for enrichment activities such as Solo and Ensemble competition and District Honors Choir.  Attendance at scheduled performances is required, as
is appropriate concert attire. Students must successfully complete 7th grade choir to be recommended to continue with
8th grade choir.

7th Grade Scheduling Worksheet

.

CORE SUBJECT AREA / REQUIRED COURSES
Course Name / Details	Course Length
MATHEMATICS: Recommendation made by Math Teacher
◯	Essentials Mathematics 7 - I	Full year
◯	Mathematics 7 -  I	Full year
◯	Mathematics 7 - II	Full year
◯	Mathematics 7 -  Honors  *Recommendation Only	Full year

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS: Select 1 Level
◯	Essentials English Language Arts 7	Full year
◯	English Language Arts 7	Full year
◯	English Language Arts Honors 7  *Recommendation Only	Full year
SCIENCE: Core Subject Requirement
◯	Science 7
◯	Science 7 Honors *Recommendation Only	Full year
SOCIAL STUDIES: Core Subject Requirement:
◯	Social Studies 7
◯	Social Studies 7 Honors *Recommendation Only	Full year
ACADEMIC ROTATION: Required
Physical Education / Health	Semester
✔	S.T.E.M.	Quarter
Information Technology	Quarter
INTERVENTION / ENRICHMENT: Required for ALL Students
✔	Intervention / Enrichment - 26 minute Homeroom Class	Full year

ELECTIVE / ENRICHMENT COURSES	
Course Name / Details	Course Length	
Elective/Enrichment Courses:	Total of 2 courses		
◯	Reading *Recommended	Full year
◯	Exploratory Block (French, Spanish, Art, Music)	Full year
◯	Choir	Full year
◯	Band	Full year
◯	Orchestra	Full year
◯	Reading	Full year	

 Required  and  Elective  Courses  for  6th  Grade  Students 
McCord offers a 7 period day, plus a 26 minute Intervention / Enrichment class at the end of the day. Listed below are the five required courses. as well as the full list of electives offered to 8th grade students. Students may select two electives from the options below. Please note that some students are recommended for certain electives based upon their individual needs.

 High School Course Add/Drop Policy
Students dropping a course after (5) school days will receive an “F” for the semester unless it is dropped with written teacher recommendation. Teacher recommendation will be based on the following criteria:
1.  The student sought assistance from the teacher.
2.  The student has taken advantage of any available academic assistance.
3.  The student’s work does not indicate the ability to meet minimum course requirements with conscientious effort.

Core / Required Courses	Elective Courses

●	English Language Arts
●	Math (double blocked - 2 periods)
●	Science
●	Social Studies
●	Elective Rotation
○	Physical Education (2 rotations)
○	S.T.E.M. (quarter)
○	Information Technology (quarter)
○	Art
○	Music
○	Cultural Studies

6th grade students have the opportunity to take the following electives in conjunction with their other electives during 1st period.

Band
Orchestra

6th grade Band and Orchestra students alternate between their scheduled elective listed above and Band/Orchestra during 1st period.

ENGLISH
The main emphasis of English is the sequential development of the skills necessary for effective communication, which includes writing, using MLA format, speaking, and listening. Students will use the five steps of the writing process and will write   for   a   variety   of  purposes.  Students  learn  correct grammar, mechanics, parts of speech and spelling through mini-lessons. Acquisition of vocabulary occurs as students work with word analogies, synonyms, antonyms, figurative language, and Greek root words.

HONORS ENGLISH
This class offers depth, complexity, variety, and accelerated pacing appropriate to advanced learners. Students develop skills in analysis, interpretation, oral communication, vocabulary, and research.   In addition, students read classic and  contemporary  literature  and  challenging  informational texts in a range of genres. Deeper analysis is required during the writing process as student’s produce arguments, informational  texts,  narratives  enhanced  complexity--while still ensuring task, purpose, and audience.

MATHEMATICS
The   math   curriculum   is   organized   around   clusters   of important,  related  concepts,  processes,  ways  of  thinking,

skills, and problem solving strategies. These are studied in depth with the development of deep understanding as the goal. Instruction emphasizes inquiry and discovery of mathematical ideas through investigation of rich problem situations. Student materials are organized into units, each of which focuses on a core set of important, related mathematical ideas. These units include:
Number Theory
Measurement
Use of Data and Graphs Ration, Rates, and Proportions Fractions, Decimals, and Percents Equations
Area, Perimeter, Volume, and Surface Area.
6th grade Math is a double blocked course lasting two periods.

READING
Reading requires students to be actively involved and connected with a text.  Students learn strategies to help them comprehend, interpret, and evaluate informational and literary text.   Students acquire new vocabulary by employing word identification strategies and improve fluency through practice. They  will  analyze texts to determine the conflict, point of view, main idea, theme, author’s purpose, and other literary elements.  Students will respond to literature by summarizing

or supporting their interpretations with references to the text. They are expected to read independently to foster reading as a lifelong skill.

SOCIAL STUDIES
Social Studies will focus on regions and people found throughout the world. 6th grade Social Studies is a meaningful and balanced presentation of the physical and cultural geography of the major cultural regions of the world. People, economy, and government of the regions will be explored. In addition, carefully sequenced skills teach students how to read and interpret maps, globes, charts, graphs, and diagrams, and to use timelines, critical thinking, and study and research
skills.

SOCIAL STUDIES HONORS
Honors Social Studies 6 is designed for the advanced 6th grade student who has a strong interest in the field of social studies and plans to pursue Honors and/or AP social studies courses in high school. Student collaboration utilizing developmentally appropriate inquiry-based learning, problem solving, project-based learning, lectures, discussions, and debates, Honors Social Studies 6 gives an in-depth treatment to the topics covered to make connections to 21st century events that continue to impact the world as we know it today. Honors Social Studies 6 utilizes a number of informational sources, both print and digital, to illustrate the aftermath of events. An in-depth study of primary sources will capture the political implications, the economic effects and the social implications in preparation for the rigor of an Honors Social Studies class.

SCIENCE
In a technological age when scientific knowledge progresses at such a rapid rate, science education must include the use of an up-to-date activity-based program with methods and strategies that lead students:
*To construct science concepts and solve problems through inquiry and exploration.
*To  explore  and  understand  several  aspects  of  physical science, life science, and earth science.
The science program is designed so that skills, concepts, and generalizations are reinforced and refined with new, more complex  situations.     It  allows  students  to have the opportunities to make connections among the science disciplines.  Students then can apply the knowledge they have learned to their own lives.

HONORS SCIENCE 6
Honors Science 6 offers a 6th grade science curriculum with depth, complexity, variety, and accelerated pacing appropriate to advanced learners. The curriculum focuses on helping students use scientific inquiry to discover patterns, trends, and relationships that are related to the studies of earth, space, physical, and life sciences. Students will explore the topics of: Rocks, Minerals and Soil; Matter and Motion; and Modern
Cell Theory (cellular to multicellular). Emphasis on laboratory safety and scientific processes such as conducting scientific investigations, developing laboratory measurement skills,

analyzing and interpreting data, and thinking logically and critically are woven throughout these areas of focus.

EXPLORATORY CLASSES
In addition to the state required courses, our 6th grade students will  be  introduced  to  other  courses  that  will expand their minds and educational experiences.   One of our goals in Sylvania Schools is to provide each child the opportunity to experience a diverse curriculum. Thus, all our 6th graders will experience, in varied lengths, the following classes:   Art, Computer Applications, Music, Applied Technology, Physical Education, and Health.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The goal in 6th grade physical education is for students to experience a range of activities and to develop a positive attitude toward physical activity. The emphasis at this level is on fitness activities and sport-related skill practice. Students are  expected  to  change clothes each day for class. Shorts, T-shirts and proper athletic shoes are required. Evaluation is based on participation and effort.

BAND, ORCHESTRA
Beginning band and orchestra are elective courses which meet three days a week. Students are introduced to the fundamental instrumental techniques and the basics of music reading. Evaluation  is based on fulfillment of practice requirements and improvement of performance skills demonstrated by written and playing tests.   Three concerts are scheduled throughout the school year at which attendance is required.

ART
Art class combines the concepts of process, product and understanding to support both cognitive and creative development. The curriculum is designed to advance content knowledge and skills in the following areas: visual literacy, personal expression through art production, creative problem solving,  recognition  of  the  role and importance of art and artists in society, culture, and history, critical assessment of artwork from aesthetic and cultural perspectives, and technical studio processes.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY 6
Keyboarding is designed to help students develop speed and accuracy by learning the touch operation of the keyboard characters. Emphasis is placed on the following: introduction of the keyboard with desirable keyboarding techniques; development of speed and accuracy; and proper care of equipment. Keyboarding is the foundation for Information Technology 7.

APPLIED TECHNOLOGY
In this course students are introduced to the elective course Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM).  The STEM course in Junior High integrates these disciplines with hands-on   activities,  various   technology  applications,  and career application.

6th Grade Scheduling Worksheet

.

CORE SUBJECT AREA / REQUIRED COURSES
Course Name / Details	Course
Length
MATHEMATICS: Recommendation made by Math Teacher (double blocked - 2 periods)
◯	Essentials Mathematics 6 - I	Full year
◯	Mathematics 6 -  I	Full year
◯	Mathematics 6 - II	Full year

◯

Mathematics 6 -  Honors  *Recommendation
Only	Full year

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS: Select 1 Level
◯	Essentials English Language Arts 6	Full year
◯	English Language Arts 6	Full year

◯

English Language Arts Honors 6
*Recommendation Only	Full year

SCIENCE: Core Subject Requirement
◯
◯

Science 6
Science 6 Honors *Recommendation Only	Full year

SOCIAL STUDIES: Core Subject Requirement:

◯	Social Studies 6
◯	Social Studies 6 Honors *Recommendation
Only

Full year

ACADEMIC ROTATION: Required - 6 week rotations
Physical Education
Applied Technology
✔	Information Technology
Cultural Studies
Art
Music
INTERVENTION / ENRICHMENT: Required for ALL Students

✔

Intervention / Enrichment - 26 minute
Homeroom Class	Full year

ELECTIVE / ENRICHMENT COURSES	
Course Name / Details	Course
Length	
Elective/Enrichment Courses: Students -	optional		
◯	Band	Full year
◯	Orchestra	Full year