Middle School Course Guide - Jupiter Christian School Grades 5-8
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Jupiter Christian School
Middle School Course Guide
Grades 5-8
700 South Delaware Boulevard •Jupiter, FL •33458
1
Table of Contents
Welcome & Introduction...................................................................................................................3
Mission, Values, and Vision................................................................................................................4
Expected Student Outcomes...........................................................................................................5
Course Offerings & Progression.........................................................................................................6
Course Descriptions............................................................................................................................7
Bible......................................................................................................................................................7
English...................................................................................................................................................8
History....................................................................................................................................................9
Math.....................................................................................................................................................10
Science................................................................................................................................................12
Electives...............................................................................................................................................14
JCS students are educated in a
NURTURING COMMUNITY to
EXCEL in life and to ENGAGE the
world for Christ.
EXCEL | NURTURE | ENGAGE
2Dear Students, Parents, and Guardians:
The heartbeat of our middle school academic program is our teachers and students.
Founding Father Ben Franklin captures the strengths of both our teaching philosophy and
learning practices when he said: “Tell me and I forget, teach me and I may remember,
involve me, and I learn.”
Building on the concepts and skills learned in Lower School, students who EXCEL can
investigate by forming questions, researching, critically thinking, and creatively problem-
solving for themselves and with others.
Academic readiness also includes a focus on building executive functioning and social-
emotional skills. In addition to being subject matter experts, what our teachers do best is
provide active, reflective experiential learning that involves the whole child – their intellect,
their faith, their interests, and their social and emotional needs.
But how do we do this? What is the JCS difference?
• We do this by modeling strong content knowledge and 21st century informational
literacy and technology skills in core subjects: English, Math, Science and History.
• We differentiate the learning experience not only through specialized ESE programs
such as SOAR, QUEST and Academic Support but also in the classroom with whole-
group instruction, small-group rotations, technology, and fishbowl discussions.
• We cultivate identity and spiritual formation in a shared Bible and homeroom period -
yet another opportunity for students to build relationships with one another and their
teachers.
• We develop character and leadership through interdisciplinary projects, informational
literacy, research, service-learning, student government, weekly chapels, community
service club and National Junior Honor Society (2022-2023).
• As Middle School is a time of exploration, we offer a full range of electives including
Life Skills, Band and Choir, Spanish, Drama, Technology/Digital Citizenship, PE – all
meant to STRENGTHEN & SHOWCASE the interests, gifts, talents and abilities of a child.
It is with prayer and hope that the purpose and goals of our middle school academic
program remain grounded in forming both competent and confident students who
understand the Lord’s calling in their life and are ready to navigate high school and beyond.
In Him,
Mrs. Brittany Flesch, M.Ed.
Middle School Principal
\
3Mission
Jupiter Christian School is committed to excellence in teaching the mind, reaching the heart,
and inspiring servant leaders who will impact the world for Jesus Christ.
Vision
Jupiter Christian School will become a leading provider of quality education from a biblical
perspective and a ready resource to help others with similar goals.
Core Values
Centrality of the Christian Faith - The Bible is the final authority for the Christian relating to
matters of faith and practice. JCS believes in the virgin birth, sinless life, substitutionary
atonement and the imminent return of our Lord Jesus Christ. These beliefs are foundational
to all activities related to the ministry of Jupiter Christian School. (II Timothy 3: 16,17)
Commitment to prayer - JCS believes in the power of prayer. All activities of the school
should begin with prayer. The teachers and staff are committed to praying for their students
regularly. The students are taught to pray for one another, their teachers, the school staff,
their families and friends, and their government leaders. (Ephesians 6:18; II Timothy 2:1-4)
Compassion and respect for all people - JCS believes each individual is uniquely created by
God and endowed with specific gifts and abilities. These gifts and abilities encourage
mutual respect, promote Christian love and provide motivation to resolve conflict in a
peaceable and Biblical manner. (Matthew 18:15-35)
Commitment to family values - JCS stands in loco parentis, in place of the parent. As such,
the school is supportive of family issues and concerns. We exist to strengthen the family
through a balanced educational program that considers the academic and relational
needs of the family. (Psalm 127)
Consistent focus on scholastic excellence - JCS provides a challenging academic
curriculum as well as a comprehensive extracurricular program. This allows each student to
pursue academic excellence while developing spiritual, physical and intellectual disciplines.
We intend to produce students who are well prepared to take their place in the world as
God directs their lives through the study of His Word. (II Timothy 2:15)
Community involvement - JCS promotes citizenship and community involvement through
school wide benevolence ministries and community service programs. (Matthew 20:25-28)
Caring attitude of servanthood - JCS is dedicated to serving the needs of our parents,
students, teachers and staff. Furthermore, we recognize that these people are the keys to
the school's success. (Matthew 20:25-28)
Careful stewardship of all resources - JCS is committed to responsible management of the
time, talent and treasure entrusted to us by our Creator God. (Matthew 25:14-29)
4Expected Student Outcomes
A Jupiter Christian School Graduate will be able to…
1. Incorporate biblical teaching of God-given identity and God-directed purpose to
impact their community or potential career field through critical thinking,
mathematical reasoning, problem solving, inquiry, and innovative solutions to
overcome obstacles and carefully steward resources.
2. Through scholarly research, demonstrate the ability to critically read, apply, analyze,
synthesize and evaluate informational texts from a biblical lens.
3. Write routinely over a variety of time frames to produce clear and coherent writing for
a specified purpose and audience by assessing, discerning and prioritizing use of
applications and programs to complete tasks.
4. Employ both speaking and listening skills in a variety of contexts including thoughtful
discussion, peer, teacher/advisor and mentor conferences.
5. Demonstrate the ability to organize, create and deliver a formal presentation of one’s
own ideas based on research, experience and service-learning activity enhanced by
technological skills and resources.
6. Understand their role in the global community to collaborate with others of diverse
backgrounds and identify the value of an individual within a team to meet deadlines
and achieve common goals.
7. Understand the importance of healthy choices, Christ-centered living, and a
commitment to prayer as they positively impact the world around them.
8. Articulate the Gospel and think critically about biblical worldview as a lens for current
events, world crises, cultural issues, and family relationships.
52022-2023 Middle School Course Offerings
Grade 5 Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8
Bible- The Life and Bible – The Christian Bible 7 – Journey Bible 8 – Wisdom in
Ministry of Jesus Worldview through the Old & New Proverbs
Testament
English Language Arts English Language Arts English Language Arts English Language Arts
5 6 7 8
History 5 History 6: Ancient History 7: Civics History 8: American
Cultures
General Math 5 • General Math 6 • General Math 7 • Pre-Algebra
• Pre-Algebra • Pre-Algebra • Algebra I*
• Algebra I Honors* • Algebra I Honors*
• Honors Geometry
Integrated Science 5 Integrated Science 6 Integrated Science 7 Science 8
Honors Physical
Science*
Fine Arts Electives (2-3x Fine Arts Electives (2-3x Yearlong Elective Yearlong Elective
a week) a week) Options Options
• Art • Art • Art Survey • Academic
• Band • Band • Academic Support
• Choir • Choir Support • Band
• Theatre • Theatre • Computer • Choir
Science/Robotics • Computer
Required (1x a week) Required (1x a week) • Exploratory Science/Robotics
• Intro. to • Intro. to Spanish 3 • HOPE: Physical
Technology & Technology & • Band Education/
Digital Citizenship Digital Citizenship • Choir Health***
• Library & • Library & • Life Skills • Life Skills
Research Research • Physical • Physical
• Life Skills • Life Skills Education Education
• Physical • Physical • Theatre • Spanish I*
Education Education • 2D Studio Art*
• Exploratory • Exploratory • Theatre
Spanish 1 Spanish 2 • Yearbook
All course offerings based on course enrollment.
*Denotes High School credit course.
**Instructor approval and parent agreement required for placement.
Advanced Academic programming provides rigorous coursework to enrich the learning
experience. It is not intended to accelerate graduation.
62022-2023 Middle School Course Descriptions
BIBLE
Bible 5- The Life and Ministry of Jesus
It is all about Jesus! Students will spend the first part of the year reviewing the Old Testament,
highlighting our need for a Savior. Next, they will dive into the life and ministry of Jesus
exploring the Gospels of Matthew, Mark, Luke and John. The year finishes with the
appearance of the Holy Spirit and the establishment of the Church and what is means to be
a Christ-Follower.
Bible 6 - The Christian Worldview
Who is God? Who am I? Am I living as God created me to be? Developing a Christian
worldview means asking and answering “big questions” about God, the universe, human
beings, truth, and morality. The Bible survey component focuses on the book of Acts. Key
topics covered include:
• Creation and the Fall
• Covenants
• Monotheism
• Omnipotence, omnipresence, and omniscience
• Revelation, theism, truth, and worldview
Bible 7 - Journey through the Bible
Fasten your seat belts—Route 66 will take you and your students on a journey through the
entire Bible, from the dawn of time to the final revelation of God’s glory. Studying both the
Old and New Testament, students will briefly examine each book in Scripture, learning how
God uses imperfect men and women to reflect His grace. This course challenges students to
not only trace and understand biblical themes but also reflect on how to practically apply
God’s Word.
Bible 8 - Wise Up: Wisdom in Proverbs
In this course, students revisit the worldview questions “Who is God? Who am I? Am I living as
God created me to be?” with a focused lens on wisdom found in the book of Proverbs. This
course seeks to guide students through life questions, culture, and age-appropriate topics
such as making decisions, navigating friendships, attitudes about self and others, and
integrity all from a biblical lens.
7ENGLISH
English 5
Short stories, essays and novels, oh my! Come explore a variety of genres to gain knowledge,
understanding and a love for reading. Reading and writing instruction create a balanced and
enriching literary experience. Ongoing formative assessment provides students opportunities to
read texts on their level where intentional instruction will refine reading skills specific to each
student’s areas of opportunity. Engaging writing lessons will motivate students to generate
thoughtful opinions, narrative and research essays. Using mini lessons, modeling and guided
instruction, students will be exploring and enriching their knowledge of language and reading!
English 6
Book a ticket, pack a bag, and set out on the adventure in 6th grade English. Be ready to
capture word phrases and irony, rescue vocabulary, foreshadow the future, and slay poor word
choices. From picture books and mystery to drama plays and narratives, discover a world of
different character perspectives and find your own voice. Unleash the power of reading and
writing as it takes you to new places and inspires you to grow, learn, and understand. Research
animal heroes, foreign places, and unfamiliar fairy tale versions to write your own informative
essay, blog, and 10-page novel. Knowing that wisdom is the key that unlocks the door of
success, be not afraid to conquer the obstacles, for the only adventure that fails, is the one we
never tried.
English 7
What do a cobra-fighting mongoose, a missionary pilot to Ecuador, a first century zealot, and a
divine lion all have in common? Answer: They are just a few of the extraordinary characters you
will encounter during your time in 7th grade English. This academic adventure includes a
thematic approach to studying literature that will challenge students with essential ideas and
questions that will serve them for the rest of their lives. Biblical integration will be key as many of
our themes are closely connected to Christian beliefs and principals. And, of course, we cannot
forget writing and grammar! These critical communication skills will be sharpened through the
study of various forms of writing, including narrative, essay, journalistic, argumentative, and
research writing. These skills will prepare students for more advanced studies as they move
toward high school, and, ultimately, help prepare them to be effective communicators for life. A
year of excitement and tons of learning are ahead. Please join us for the adventure!
English 8
What is important milestone on the pathway to growing up? How and why do we remember the
past? What is a problem in your school, community or world that you would like to solve? Are
inventions realized through inspiration or perspiration? Tough questions demand both thoughtful
answers and action. In this final English Language Arts course before high school, 8th grade
students explore these questions as part of a thematic study including novels, informational texts,
short stories, poetry and a variety of media. Each reading is paired with grammar, vocabulary,
Latin root word studies, and the analysis of a writer’s craft and structure, offering a
comprehensive support for student success in reading and writing. Verbal and written
communication skills are a highlighted focus for this course as students develop further mastery in
narrative, informational, argumentative writing in additional to a problem-solution research
project and multiple multimedia presentations.
8HISTORY
History 5 - American History
Together, let’s discover and learn from America’s past! In 5th grade, we will study the
development of our nation with emphasis on the people, places, and events. The units we
explore include Native American groups in North America, European Explorers who first
discover and settle North America, the American Revolution and the establishment of our
government. STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) activities are integrated
into each unit. We will make connections to our studies with hands-on challenges and
projects, such as designing and building Native American Shelters, building and testing a
crate from the Boston Tea Party, and even a cannonball launcher!
History 6 - Ancient Cultures
Pack Your Bags! Did you know that there are almost 200 countries in the world? We will
discover many of them as we travel back in time to Ancient Civilizations encountering
geographic studies, through collaborative and individual projects and presentations.
Additionally, we will be delving into the GRAPES (geography, religion, achievements, politics,
economics, and social structures) to discover how and why civilizations developed and
changed. Some of the civilizations of the ancient world that will investigate include Sumer,
Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, China, Greece, Rome and more as we make history come alive
in our classroom. So, pack your bags and get ready for the journey of a lifetime as we
discover why we continue to study these civilizations hundreds (and in some cases
thousands!) of years later.
History 7 - Civics
Over 159 million people voted in the Election of 2020 even though this number represents less
than half of the American population. So how do we influence change? Recognizing the
overall structure, function and purpose of government is vital to becoming a contributing
member of American society. Whether it is understanding the power of voting in local and
national elections, becoming involved in political parties, or simply being aware of state,
local, and community issues, 7th Grade Civics ensures, in the famous words of Abraham
Lincoln “that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from
the earth”.
History 8 – American History
What if I told you George Washington never had wood teeth, Christopher Columbus never
discovered America and Paul Revere never yelled “the British are coming!”? It’s true…all
these historical “facts” never happened! Take a walk on the wild side of American History
and rediscover the truth of the founding of our great nation. Join me with the Pilgrims on
board the Mayflower, in Yorktown when the British surrender to George Washington and in
Gettysburg with General Lee and Grant. We will walk through nearly 400 years of History to
uncover the truths of our past and how it can change and impact our present.
9MATH
General Math 5
Everyone can succeed at math! We will actively engage with numbers by focusing on
conceptual understanding, computational and procedural skills, and problem solving. We
will extend previous understanding of the following areas: number sense, fractions, algebraic
reasoning, measurement, geometric reasoning, data analysis and probability. Students will
increase their understanding of the course material by participating in small group instruction
consisting of the use of technology, hands on manipulatives and games, independent
problem solving, and real-world application.
General Math 6
When learning a new skill, did you ever ask, “Why do I need to know this?” or “When will I use
this?”. Did you know that 94% of American jobs require some area of math every day?
(theatlantic.com). Sixth Grade Math will address these questions and more while students
solidify conceptual understanding, fluency, application, and procedural skill. Lessons
incorporate a variety of learning methods including hands on learning using manipulatives,
collaboration, games, and group and individual projects. By the end of this course, students
will be challenged to address these Essential Questions:
1) How and why we write numbers in different ways?
2) What areas in life do we use the skills every day?
3) How do we solve real world problems through translating words to numerical
expressions?
General Math 7
Life is often all about solving “problems.” Some problems will be small and easy to handle
while others may be challenging. Mathematics is truly about becoming a problem solver! In
this course, students learn to problem solve while developing perseverance and confidence.
They will begin by understanding integer operations and how to apply those rules to rational
numbers. Once students have this foundation established, they can begin to build on these
concepts solving real world problems involving the following:
• Percents (How much will I have to pay for my first car when I figure in the sales tax?
How much should they leave for a tip?),
• Ratios and rates (How do I determine the best deal when comparing products at the
grocery store?)
• Probability and statistics (How do I calculate projected figures with a set of recorded
data?)
Students will be prepared for success in Pre-Algebra, Algebra, and beyond as they are
introduced to the concepts of writing algebraic expressions, combining like terms,
evaluating expressions, and writing and solving basic equations.
Pre-Algebra
Math is everywhere! Whether we are creating a budget, doing our taxes, calculating the tip
we should pay a server, assessing out how much wood for a building project, designing and
laying out a new kitchen, engineering plans for a new car, drafting a blueprint for a model
home, mixing chemicals, or sending a space shuttle into space, the uses for mathematics
are varied and essential to all our everyday lives.
10Pre-Algebra is the foundational course before heading into high school mathematics courses
and beyond. While students will review the concepts of integer operations and operations
with rational numbers, much of the year will be spent expanding knowledge of writing and
solving equations. Students will learn to see problems from different perspectives, reinforcing
the truth that there is often more than one way solve a problem. By collaborating with fellow
classmates and teachers, students will learn to apply the absolute truths of mathematics
(mathematical properties) to a variety of problems in order gain confidence and ensure
understanding of those truths. Students will also become familiar with linear functions both in
written and graphed form in order to prepare them for the concepts they will cover in
Algebra.
Algebra I* - 1.0 credit
Honors also available with prerequisites: 90% or higher in Pre-Algebra and teacher recommendation.
Have you heard of the Commutative, the Distributive or the Transitive Property? No? Well,
what about the Grass-is-Green Property? This is the most important one of all! Algebra I is the
foundation for all mathematics in high school and beyond. By developing an understanding
of these algebraic properties and reviewing real number systems operations, students will
learn to separate a difficult problem into small steps. Students will apply math concepts to
real world situations to understand the value and use of math in daily life. Students will review
pre-algebra skills and further explore the following algebraic topics: operations with integers,
functions and graphing, radicals and rational expressions, quadratic equations and
functions, exponents, polynomials and linear equations.
Honors Geometry* - 1.0 credit
Prerequisites: 90% or higher in Honors Algebra I and teacher recommendation.
This course takes an accelerated study of the topics in Euclidean Geometry. Students are
taught to be able to interpret diagrams and solve for various items and prove their answers.
In the advanced track, students can expect to do more proofs, word problems and high-
level thinking questions to prepare them for upper level math courses. Hands-on projects are
part of the course that allow students to do work that isn’t always in a textbook.
11SCIENCE
Science 5
Science is designed to be interactive and engaging! Come join us in 5th grade where you will
develop and use models of various kinds, plan and carry out investigations, take the data
from those investigations and learn to analyze and interpret it. You will use math and
computational skills to gather evidence, engage in discussions to communicate information,
and so much more. With development and use of these skills, you will study Matter,
Ecosystems, Earth’s System, and Space Systems. By the end of the year, you will engage in
various STEM projects during each unit.
Science 6
Activate your natural scientific skills to engage in the world God made. Practice the skills of a
scientist by following the scientific method and cooperate with your fellow scientists to
uncover mysteries God has for us to find. Observe and record the connections we discover
through the topics of Life Science, Earth Science, and Physical Science. Collect evidence to
create beliefs, theories, inventions, and solutions to challenging questions. Connect purpose
to function and design in everything we study through hands-on investigation. Dive into
God’s Word on the subject to apply your heart to your observation and add wisdom to your
knowledge by learning a lesson from what you see. Share your findings with your community
of learners as you envision a career in science.
Science 7
What does God want us to know about his Creation? And what does God want us to do
with his Creation? Through research, interactive labs, virtual field trips and web quests, 7th
grade students build upon their foundational knowledge in Life, Earth and Physical Science
to examine topics such as the classification and states of matter, the changing earth and its
cycling of materials, natural hazards, and ecosystem interactions and biodiversity from a
biblical worldview. Throughout this course, students discover the wonders of God as our
Creator and demonstrate their mastery of core knowledge and scientific skills through STEM
projects, performance-based assessments, and interdisciplinary research.
Science 8
Why, How, and WOW! This culminating science course for 8th grade students emphasizes the
role of the student as explorer, researcher, scientist, and inventor. Through the continued,
spiraled study of Life, Earth, and Physical sciences, students investigate and evaluate
geologic time and the evolution theory from a Creationist lens, analyze energy and motion,
explore waves, light, and information technologies, explore the impact of human activity on
the earth, and develop models to explain our solar system. Students will articulate and
demonstrate sophisticated content knowledge and advanced STEM skills through authentic
performance measures including labs, inquiry-based research and interdisciplinary projects.
12Honors Physical Science* - 1.0 credit
Prerequisite: teacher recommendation, Co-Requisite: Algebra I
Physical Science is a foundational course for high school Chemistry and Physics which
introduces the scientific discoveries of Newton, Boyle, Archimedes and many others. In
general, the academic pace and rigor will be greatly increased for high school course work.
Laboratory investigations that include the use of scientific inquiry, research, measurement,
problem solving, laboratory apparatus and technologies, experimental procedures, and
safety procedures are an integral part of this course. School lab activities are investigations
in the classroom or the field that provide students with opportunities to interact directly with
natural phenomena or with data collected by others using tools, materials, data collection
techniques, and models. Through scientific inquiry, learners will see the intelligence and
power of the Creator.
ELECTIVES
Academic Support - (admission requirements apply with additional fee)
This is a specialized program that provides an environment for learners who can benefit from
a guided study approach. Students will be encouraged to identify their learning differences
and develop personal strategies for success that they can apply to the requirements of their
other courses as well as community settings. There will be particular focus on organizing,
prioritizing, and scheduling one’s individual academic course load.
Art Survey (semester course; paired with Theatre)
Pablo Picasso once said, “Learn the rules like a pro, so you can break them like an artist”. We
spend our year-long adventure learning the rules: the Elements of Art and their Principles of
Design. We practice these rules through weekly sketchbook assignments and then what
we’ve practiced projects through pencil, paint, and clay. We will discover how master artists
like Picasso, Van Gogh, and O’Keefe did this through practicing- just like us, for an amazing
creative result all because they learned the rules and then were brave enough to break the
rules. We take a look at the world around us, its order and beauty, and realize that it and us
are fearfully and wonderfully made by the ultimate master artist, God our Creator. Let your
creativity flow like a pro in Art Survey!
Band
Can music make you smarter? What we do know is students engaged in musical
experiences are developing their physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual selves
simultaneously! Music students do tend to score better on tests, have higher self-esteem and
a keen sense of personal discipline all while learning a fun lifelong skill. Students of all ability
levels are welcome to join band and discover the musical gifts that God has instilled in them.
Join our ensemble and grow into your best musical self through study of theory, listening,
traditional rehearsals, performances, and exposure to a wide variety of band literature.
13Choir
This class seeks to establish each singer’s vocal and musical abilities with an emphasis on
ensemble performances. Whether teaching a mixed chorus or gender specific chorus,
training in healthy vocal production, basic musicianship, harmonization, blending, and sight
singing are included in the class. The class will offer multiple performance opportunities and
culminates in an evening performance each semester.
Computer Science (semester course; paired with Robotics)
This course introduces students to computer science as a vehicle for problem solving,
communication, and personal expression. The course focuses on the visible aspects of
computing and computer science and encourages students to see where computer
science exists around them and how they can engage with it as a tool for exploration and
expression. Centering on the immediately observable and personally applicable elements
of computer science, the course asks students to look outward and explore the impact of
computer science on society. Students should see how a thorough student-centered design
process produces a better application, how data is used to address problems that affect
large numbers of people, and how physical computing with circuit boards allows computers
to collect, input and return output in a variety of ways.
HOPE – Physical Education/Health* - 1 credit
In Health Opportunities through Physical Education, students will develop a personal
responsibility in areas related to spiritual, emotional and physical health. Topics are
addressed from a distinctively Christian worldview and include routine preventive care,
mental health, stress management, nutrition, CPR certification, exercise, Christian sexual
values, sexually transmitted diseases, and addictions. This course is designed to inspire
students to make wise choices and understand that the choices they make today will affect
their future. Students will learn proper fitness techniques through circuit training and
cardiovascular training. Students will also participate in activities such as tag rugby,
tchoukball, mat ball, and various net games. Important: Upon verified enrollment in this
course, parents will be required to sign an agreement form acknowledging release for
students to engage with sensitive and mature topics.
Introduction to Technology and Digital Citizenship
In this course, the students achieve an overall understanding of correct keyboarding
techniques, computer programming, computer applications such as Word, Excel, and Power
Point, the movie making process, and digital citizenship. Students are set on individualized
keyboarding plans according to their skill. This ensures the use of the correct finger positions
and increases their typing speed and accuracy. Digital Citizenship lessons introduce students
to the awareness and knowledge they need to be safe and responsible digital citizens
online. Through hands-on projects and quizzes, the students exhibit their knowledge of the
computer skills/concepts they have learned. The instructional goal is to prepare students with
computer application skills, so they are confident of their abilities to complete assignments
that require the use of technology.
14Library & Research Skills:
The FINDS Library Media Research Model fosters critical thinking and empowers students to
learn how to choose a research topic, develop research questions, and find the right place
to search for the information needed. Students discover the best search techniques for
locating books and articles as well as what to do if a search produces too few or too manty
results. Students utilize varying types of print and online books to construct projects and
presentations for their classes.
Life Skills
Students engage with one another to expand important life skills such as self-awareness, self-
management, relationship skills, and responsible decision making. Social-Emotional
education improves students’ attitudes, relationships, and academic performance through
the crucial middle school years. Additional topics of exploration include leadership, career
preparation, civic engagement, health and nutrition, money management, and
school/work habits.
Physical Education
5th - 7th Physical Education is a year-round program which provides introduction to strength,
interval training and exposure to a variety of recreational sports. Fundamental sports skills
and team concepts are also taught through activities such as Mat ball, Tchoukball, Ultimate
Frisbee, Tag Rugby, and various net games.
Robotics (semester; prerequisite: Computer Science)
This is a beginning course in robotics. Utilizing a variety of materials including VEX Robotics
and supported platforms, students will be introduced to basic programming as well as
problem solving strategies. This course will involve students in the development, building and
programming of a robot. Students will work hands-on in teams to design, build, program and
document their progress. Topics may include motor control, gear ratios, torque, friction,
sensors, timing, program loops, logic gates, decision-making, timing sequences, propulsion
systems and binary number systems. Student designed robots will be programmed to
compete in various courses and challenges as designed by VEX IQ. Participation in
competition may be required and can occur outside the regular school day.
Theatre
Students will be introduced to fundamental skills in the multiple elements of theatre while
applying biblical principles to this collaborative art. Course content includes a survey of
acting, characterization, movement, vocal production, pantomime, improvisation, theatre
terminology, theatre history, theatre etiquette, script elements, auditioning, and show
production. Students will visit local theatres for tours and performances and have an
opportunity to appear on stage. This course may require a student to participate in outside
rehearsals and performances beyond the school day.
152D Studio Art*- 1.0 credit
Students experiment with the media and techniques used to create a variety of two-
dimensional (2- D) artworks through the development of skills in drawing, painting,
printmaking, collage, and/or design. Students practice, sketch, and manipulate the
structural elements of art to improve mark making and/or the organizational principles of
design in a composition from observation, research, and/or imagination. Through the critique
process, students evaluate and respond to their own work and that of their peers. This course
incorporates hands-on activities and consumption of art materials.
SOAR – Student Opportunity to Advance Rapidly
*Limited space with additional fee for eligible 5th and 6th grade students
SOAR successfully utilizes both in classroom and pull-out models of instruction in ELA, math,
and reading. In the pull-out model, students receive daily individualized or small group
instruction in core academic areas - reading, language arts and mathematics. In the
mainstream classroom (inclusion model), students receive accommodations designed to
help them succeed academically within the general education classroom. In some classes,
we offer a push-in model. Students are eligible for academic accommodations and
enrollment into SOAR based on a psycho-educational evaluation. Our primary goal is to
incorporate these students into the general education classes. Accommodation plans are
used in an effort to foster success.
Exploratory Spanish 1-3
Did you know that Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world? Over the
course of three years, students will learn and practice Spanish greetings, be exposed to
various cultural aspects of Spanish-speaking countries and apply understanding in both
traditional and experiential forms. Continued grammar work will be provided through
reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Spanish I* - 1.0 credit
Spanish 1 introduces students to the target language and its culture in daily life. The student
will develop communicative skills in all 3 modes of communication and cross-cultural
understanding. Emphasis is placed on proficient communication in the language. An
introduction to reading and writing is also included as well as culture, connections,
comparisons, and communities.
QUEST - Question, Understand, Explain, Solve and Think (limited space with additional fee)
For the 2022 – 2023 school year, our QUEST program is available to our gifted 5th and 6th grade
students with the primary purpose to nurture academic excellence and increase student
achievement. Below is a preview of replacement courses for science based on enrollment:
165th and 6th QUEST Science
Did you know there is a tree in the Earth’s Biosphere that shoots its seeds out at 150 miles per
hour? Well, it’s true! It’s called a sandbox tree and it shows how amazing and creative God is
in his designs...each one with a specific purpose. Fun and interesting facts, like this one, will
be the focus as we actively engage in studying topics from the Matter to Biological
Ecosystems and their interactions and Earth’s systems to the Solar System. During these units,
you will be challenged with various STEM projects, creating models, performing experiments,
and analyzing data to interpret relationships of the scientific world to our Heavenly Father,
the creator of all! Creating, hands-on, projects, and engineering are paths to learning in this
one-of-a-kind science class! Additional STEM club and competition opportunities will be
offered through this class as well.
Yearbook
Calling all writers, photographers, and creatives! Students are taught basic journalism skills
and then research, gather facts and photograph JCS events to chronicle the year for the
Middle School student body. Students will gain experience in photography, design and
layout, editing, and marketing skills. Students participating in this class will have the
opportunity to experience firsthand all the challenges and rewards that journalists,
photographers and editors face in the business world. This course seeks to foster a love of
writing, reporting, photography, and design by presenting students gifted in these areas with
a forum in which to see their work published and distributed. Class members should have a
natural love of and ability to write, as well as a desire to seek out and tell great stories.
*Denotes High School credit course.
**Instructor approval and parent agreement required for placement.
All course offerings based on course enrollment. Advanced Academic programming
provides rigorous coursework to enrich the learning experience. It is not intended to
accelerate graduation.
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