Desert Shadov,;s M:ddle Schooi

Course Descriptions - 8th Grade Electives

Art 2D &JD (SEM) This class focuses on the process of art making, 2D and 3D art media including drawing, painting, printmaking, collage and sculpture. Students will create artwork based on their own ideas through brainstorming, planning and research. No prior art experience is necessary .

Ceramics (SEM) This course is offered to students wishing to work exclusively in clay , Students will gain skills and experience creating pottery and sculpture from clay . Students will learn the basics and progress towards complex forms .

Concert Band (YRl Students must have a minimum of one year study on percussion, woodwind or brass instruments and teacher approval. Class emphasis will be on developing music reading proficiency and developing technical skill . Students will perform a minimum of two evening concerts during the year .

Drama (SEM) This course is designed to inspire the student who wishes to develop a love and appreciation of the theatre. This class is structured to provide the students with a basis in theatre skills, to offer a creative outlet and produce well-rounded performers . There will be at least one performance opportunity during the year outside of school for students to demonstrate what they have learned and to experience the exhilaration of the interaction between actors and audience.

Advanced Drama (SEM) Students will expand on the foundation built in drama. Students will explore developing characters, play analysis, audition techniques, inner monologue and more Students will enjoy a unit on musical theatre and historical aspects of theatre .

Exploring Computer Science Level 1 (SEMI If you like computers and are curious about how they work, this is your class . In this project-based introductory class, students will be introduced to several aspects of Computer Science and Information Technology . Students will become adept at using the productivity software crucial in the academic and business world . They will also design and build their own website and learn to write the code behind those sites along with learning other coding basics including algorithms . Students will also explore lhe societal impacts of technology and the Internet including investigating types of cybercrimes and cybersecurity solutions .

Exploring Computer Science Level 2 (SEM) Exploring Computer Science 2 is a continuation of ECS1 . Students will continue to expand their knowledge of Computer Science and Information Technology through project-based learning . Students will build upon their knowledge of coding and even venture into coding within the gaming sector Students will also learn to solve the Rubik's cube by using algorithms (the foundation of coding) They will learn about hardware and networking or the nuts and bolts of computers and how they talk to each other. In addition, students will delve deeper into the societal impacts of technology and the Internet Ultimately, students will experience the creative nature of computing while learning how to use technology as a tool for solving problems .

Girls Super Sports (YR) This class is for girls with advanced skills, strong self-discipline and a desire for intense competition . Emphasis will be on learning official rules and practicing game strategies . Classroom activities will include reading and discussion on conditioning, injury prevention, basic first aid and dietary demands of the athlete. Some outside classroom activities may be required . This course requires a teacher signature .

Introduction to Guitar (SEM) Students learn to play guitar and make music together in an ensemble setting , Using a class guitar method book and additional song materials, students will learn to read and interpret traditional music notation, guitar tablature notation and chord diagrams. DSMS will provide acoustic guitars for all students to use at school . Having a guitar at home for practice would be ideal, but not required.

Mixed Choir (SEM) This class is for 7th & 8th grade boys and girls interested in singing. The class includes training in choral singing, music theory, sight singing, ear training and show choir staging . There will be one performance required outside of class. For questions, please contact our Chorus Director Ms. Kahn at mkahn@pvsc/Jools .ne1

Musical Theater (SEM) This elective is great for the student that is interested in Musical Theater-both on stage and "behind the scenes" . Students will have the opportunity to rehearse, perform and choreograph a full production Class will culminate in a performance with lights, sound and costumes . This is a full-year course, with Intro to Musical Theater first semester, and Advanced Musical Theater second semester ,

Orchestra (YR) This course is offered to students who have a minimum of one year study on the violin, viola, cello or double bass . Teacher approval is required . Class emphasis is on developing music reading proficiency and technical skill Students will perform a minimum of two evening concerts during the year .

Peor Tutor (SEM) Peer tutors are assigned to one of the special education classrooms. Students selected for a peer tutor position are expected to assist the teacher and/or paraprofessional with the academic and behavioral needs of the students. Students must have good attendance, passing grades and a positive helpful attitude . An aide application must be completed and signed by a counselor.

Percussion Ensemble (YR) Students will learn to play snare drum, mallet percussion, auxiliary percussion instruments and more. Students will focus on learning to read and to count music notation, drum rudiments and making music together as a percussion ensemble. Students will perform a minimum of two evening concerts per year . Students will need their own drum practice pads, practice pad stands, drumsticks and mallets.

Physical Education (SEM/YR) This class provides students the opportunity to be active through a variety of fun sports and activities . Students will learn about general health and wellness topics All students wear a PE uniform, which can be purchased online .

Principles of Engineering (SEM) Students will find their natural curiosity and imagination engaged in creative problem solving through computer aided design (CAD.). Students will apply the design process to solve problems and understand the influence of creativity and innovation on their lives. Flash drive and 7.5 inch x 9.75 inch notebook required .

ShowStoppers (YR) This is an all girl 8th grade choir. The students in this choir learn vocal techniques, choreography, and work on sight reading skills to prepare for the high school Choir programs . This course requires the completion of CoEd Chorus or an audition with Ms Kahn.

Teacher/Offlce/DSES Aide (SEM) Students will work as an aide for the office, the nurse, library, a teacher or a teacher at DSES. Students selected for these positions are expected to perform a variety of duties . Students must have good attendance, good grades and a positive helpful attitude . An aide application must be completed and have a teacher, counselor or office personal approval .

Video Production (SEM) Students will write, tape, edit and broadcast the daily DSMS news. Students create a daily multimedia presentation using broadcasting and editing software. This course requires a teacher's signature.

Yearbook (SEM) Students will be creating the current year's yearbook. Students will be learning about photography, page layout and working with fonts . The yearbook is done using a web-based program . Students should have some computer experience . This course requires a teacher's signature

World Languages French 2 and Spanish 2 are a continuation of our high school level world language program . The pace accelerates in the 8th grade year as preparation for high school world language is a major focus. Completion of both the first and second year levels of a language al DSMS with a "C" grade or better , passing of a district placement lest and teacher recommendation will place students in the 3-4 level at high school as a freshman.

French 2/ Spanish 2 (YR) Students who have completed French 1 or Spanish 1 with a grade of "C" or better are eligible to take French 2 or Spanish 2. This course is the second part of level 1-2 being taught in our district in high schools. Students find themselves starting to think in the language as they apply ii to everyday situations . Since this is a high school level course, students will have nightly homework. This course requires a teacher signature .