Middle School PROGRAM OF STUDIES 2021-2022
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PROGRAM OF STUDIES
2021-2022
Deptford Township School District
Middle School
890 Bankbridge Road
Sewell, New Jersey 08080
856-415-9540Middle School
890 Bankbridge Road
Sewell, New Jersey 08080
School Closing Number 801
Deptford Township Public Schools
2022 Good Intent Road
Deptford, New Jersey 08096
Administrative Offices Main Office
856-232-2700 856-415-9540
Fax: 856-227-7473 Fax: 856-464-9284
Superintendent Principal
Mr. Arthur Dietz Mr. Jonathan Collins
Ext. 3014 Ext. 2010
Chief Academic Officer Vice Principals
Mr. Kevin Kanauss Ms. Maureen Bilda
Ext. 3001 Ext. 2002
Mrs. Sharon Mesmer
Business Administrator/Board Secretary Ext. 2002
Mr. Todd Reitzel
Ext. 3008 Athletic Coordinator
Mr. Michael Mullen
Director of Special Education
Mr. Michael Nicely
Ext. 3504 Director of Student Activities
Mr. Peter Orio
School Resource Officer
Officer Howard Jones
Deptford Township Board of Education
Susan Kryszczak-President
James McDevitt-Vice-President
Carol Gioia
Edward Kalinowski
Ruth Logue
Joseph Mckenna
Laura Newcomb
Linda Rosser
Frank Scambia
2Table of Contents
Deptford Township Public Schools Mission Statement 4
Middle School
Our Vision 5
Our Mission 5
Policies, Procedures and Requirements
Affirmative Action/Equal Opportunities 7
Curriculum Overview 8
Grading Scale 8
Change of Advanced Course Policy 8
PLP 9
AVID……………………………………………………………………..………………………………….9
Core Curriculum Courses/Required Courses
English Language Arts
Grade 7 11
Advanced ELA – Grade 7 11
Grade 8 12
Advanced ELA – Grade 8 12
ELA Intervention 13
Mathematics
Math – Grade 7 & 8 14
Advanced Math - Grade 7 (Pre-Algebra) 14
Algebra I - Grade 8 15
Physical Education/Health – Grade 7 & 8 16
Science
Grade 7 ……………………………………………………………………………….…..17
Advanced Science - Grade 7 17
Grade 8 18
Advanced Science - Grade 8 18
Social Studies
World History – Grade 7 19
Advanced World History – Grade 7 19
American History – Grade 8 20
Advanced American History – Grade 8 20
English as a Second Language 21
Special Area Courses 22
Art 23
Computers
Computer Science & Financial Literacy I 23
Computer Science & Financial Literacy II 23
Music – Grades 7 & 8 24
Band 26
Concert Choir 26
World Languages
French – Grades 7 & 8 27
Spanish – Grades 7 & 8 27
DEPTFORD TOWNSHIP PUBLIC SCHOOLS
MISSION STATEMENT
3The Deptford Township Public Schools, in cooperation with students, parents, and community
members, will strive to provide all students with the intellectual, cultural, and technological
resources and opportunities necessary to become contributing members of our democratic
society.
It is our mission to focus on high academic achievement and social competency for all of our
students. Our students will be best served by high expectations, by curricula which go beyond
basic skills, and programs which use instructional time to engage students in problem-solving,
critical thinking, and active learning.
In addition, it is our aim to establish a safe educational setting reflecting a cooperative team
approach, while at the same time allowing for independent thought and growth. Our students
should be encouraged to take intellectual risks in an environment which encourages intellectual
exploration, creative thinking, and an open exchange of ideas.
Students are guided in developing their own personal value systems. They are taught to
appreciate and accept responsibility for themselves. Each student will develop a positive self-
image by being provided with opportunities for personal growth and achievement.
The curriculum of the Deptford Township School District is aligned to the State core
curriculum content standards: Visual and Performing Arts, Comprehensive Health and Physical
Education, Language Arts Literacy, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, World Languages,
Technological Literacy, Career Education and Consumer, Family, and Life Skills. The Deptford
Township School District is committed to the implementation of these standards for all our
students. It is necessary that we use all available resources to maximize achievement across all
content areas. It is our goal that all our pupils become contributing members of our global society.
Middle School
Our Vision
4“Connecting students to academic achievement
and personal excellence”
Our Mission
Just as a bridge offers support and transition, Middle School guides students in their
development and growth. As a school community, we are clearly focused on engaging
the students in the following core areas:
● Providing a dynamic and challenging curriculum with an emphasis on higher-order
thinking skills
● Promoting and maintaining a peaceful and respectful atmosphere that encourages
responsibility for one’s actions
● Developing self-confidence and an influential voice that is expressed and heard in
a safe environment
● Fostering participation in, and service to, the democratic society in which we live
The scaffolding of the dedicated community members, parents, and staff helps to sustain
the weight of the bridge that braces our students’ future.
5Policies, Procedures,
and
Requirements
Affirmative Action
6The Deptford Township School District does not discriminate in its employment practices,
business actions, and/or educational opportunities because of age, creed, race, color, national origin,
ancestry, marital status, sex, or handicap. An affirmative action plan has been developed and is
available for review in the office of the principal of each school. Persons having any questions
regarding the affirmative action plan are encouraged to contact the building principal.
The district affirmative action officers (located at the administrative offices) are as follows:
Mr. Kevin Kanauss - Employment Practices
856-232-2700 Ext. 3001
Mr. Todd Reitzel - Contract Practices
856-232-2700 Ext. 3008
Mrs. Valerie Gambale - School and Classroom Practices
856-232-2700 Ext. 3019
Curriculum Overview
7th Grade Curriculum 8th Grade Curriculum
7English Language Arts 7, English Language Arts 8,
Advanced ELA 7 Advanced ELA 8
Math 7, Math 8,
Advanced Math 7 (Pre-Algebra) Algebra I
Science 7, Science 8
Advanced Science 7 Advanced Science 8
World History 7, American History 8,
Advanced World History 7 Advanced American History 8
Health 7/Physical Education 7 Health 8/Physical Education 8
World Language – World Language –
French 7 or Spanish 7 French 8 or Spanish 8
Art 7 Art 8
Computer Skills I Computer Skills II
General Music 7 or Band 7 or General Music 8 or Band 8 or
Concert Choir 7 Concert Choir 8
Advanced-level courses at MMS will earn a 5% weight on grade point average.
Grading Scale
100-90 Exceptional Performance
89-80 Above Average Performance
79-70 Average Performance
69-60 Below Average Performance
59-0 Not Passing
Change of Advanced Course Policy
If there is a legitimate reason for a student to change one’s class schedule, he/she must first see their
counselor. Entering or exiting an advanced course must be done according to the following schedule:
Last day to enter an advanced course: 10th day of the first marking period
Last day to drop an advanced course: first interim date
*Please note that students are chosen for advanced courses based off of an order of merit list. There are a
limited number of seats in each of these courses. Students may only be added to a course provided there
are available seats in that particular course.*
PLP
Personalized Learning Period
PLP takes place at the beginning of each day. This is students’ opportunity to complete assignments,
read their novel, make up work, or receive extra help. Everyone will be expected to be productive
8during this time. This is not a social period. Students will be working silently for the duration of the
period unless otherwise given permission. Electronic devices are not allowed unless students are given
permission to use them for academic/educational purposes. Passes are required to leave assigned PLP
and receive help elsewhere.
AVID
AVID is a national and worldwide educational program whose mission is to close the achievement gap
by providing students in the middle the necessary supports and strategies to prepare all of them for
college readiness and success in our global society. AVID – Advancement Via Individual
Determination www.avid.org.
The AVID elective class prepares selected students for four-year college eligibility. AVID has a proven
track record in bringing out the best in students and in closing the achievement gap by preparing all
students for college readiness and success in a global society. The AVID program supports these students
attending Deptford Township High School who want to go to college. Selected students are placed in (pre-
AP/AP) classes with an AVID elective class to support them during the school day. Additional support
from the AVID site team and tutoring by college students is provided.
The AVID Program targets eligible students who have the desire to go to college and the willingness to
work hard. Typically, they will be the first in their families to attend college, and many are from low-
income or minority families. AVID pulls these students out of their unchallenging courses and puts them
on the college track: acceleration instead of remediation. AVID is designed to put eligible students in
upper level courses on a college track.
The AVID Elective Student – not only are students enrolled in their school's toughest classes, such as
advanced, honors and Advanced Placement, but also in the AVID elective. For one period a day, they
learn organizational and study skills, work on critical thinking and asking probing questions, get academic
help from peers and college tutors, and participate in enrichment and motivational activities that make
college more attainable. Their self-images improve, and they become academically successful leaders
and role models for other students.
Eligible students wishing to participate in AVID will be required to go through a recruitment process as
outlined by AVID. Students will be notified of their eligibility and be asked to attend a meeting outlining
the criteria for the selection process. Students will complete the necessary requirements for recruitment
and once the recruitment process has been completed they will receive a letter identifying if they have or
have not been accepted into the AVID program.
This is a selective process.
9Required Core
Curriculum Courses
English Language Arts
Grade 7
10The seventh grade English Language Arts curriculum at MMS is a comprehensive and rigorous program
of instruction in a double period that incorporates selections from various texts. The goal is to integrate reading,
writing, speaking, and listening into daily experiences in the classroom that will foster student growth and self-
confidence. Through selected readings, students will recognize and appreciate fiction, historical fiction, and non-
fiction as literary genres. They will apply reading skills including, but not limited to, context clues, prediction,
making inferences, and determining an author’s purpose. A novel study is done each marking period to reinforce
these skills and provide independent reading practice and group discussion. In addition, students will write for a
variety of audiences and purposes, which include narrative, research simulation, and literary analysis essays. The
art of poetry as a means of expression is also explored. Daily vocabulary and grammar practice will enhance
written and oral communication as well as listening skills. Students will also focus on 21st century skills which
will prepare them for the future and make them college and career ready. Also, students will be required to take
an active role in the learning process by leading group discussions and having a greater responsibility for their
learning. All lessons will be tailored this way to ensure the New Jersey Student Learning Standards are being
incorporated in the classroom and that all students are meeting the expectations of the state. At the close of the
seventh grade ELA program, students will be equipped for future success in reading and writing.
Advanced ELA – Grade 7
This course offers students a challenging preview to Advanced English Language Arts 8. Students will
follow a rigorous curriculum that teaches the same standards as English 7; however, extended learning activities
will require students to increase their critical thinking skills to include analysis, synthesis, and problem solving.
This course integrates reading, literature study, writing, researching, speaking, and thinking skills. Students in
this course are expected to be avid readers and sophisticated writers. They will also be responsible for several
independent and creative learning activities. Emphasis is on the development of higher level thinking skills and
creativity through enrichment activities, verbal reasoning and problem solving, as well as the extension of grade
level curriculum. Students will also focus on 21st century skills which will prepare them for the future and
support them to become college and career ready. Also, students will be required to take an active role in the
learning process by leading group discussions and having a greater responsibility for their learning. All lessons
will be tailored this way to ensure the New Jersey Student Learning Standards are being incorporated in the
classroom, and all students are meeting the expectations of the state. The curriculum moves at an accelerated
pace with a more concentrated focus.
Prerequisites:
● 91% test and quiz average for MP 1 & 2 in ELA6
● Top tier LinkIt! scores in ELA 6
● Teacher Recommendation
Grade 8
The Middle School eighth grade English Language Arts program is designed to improve and enhance
students’ abilities to use reading, writing, speaking, and listening skills in such a way that benefits and fosters
growth and self-confidence. Students will learn to communicate effectively by writing a range of essays
11including narrative, research simulation, and literary analysis. The strengthening of standard grammar skills and
vocabulary will be taught in context as a necessary component of the reading and writing process. Students will
be reading a number of different short stories in a variety of genres including fiction, non-fiction, historical
fiction, and drama. A novel study will be completed each marking period. Students will read critically by
identifying, analyzing, and applying knowledge of the theme, structure, style, and literary elements of fiction and
non-fiction. They will learn to provide support from the text as evidence of their understanding. Students will
have the opportunity to demonstrate proficiency through a variety of assessments including, but not limited to,
tests, quizzes, projects, essays, presentations, choice boards, and menus. Students will also focus on 21st century
skills which will prepare them for the future and make them college and career ready. Also, students will be
required to take an active role in the learning process by leading group discussions and having a greater
responsibility for their learning. All lessons will be tailored this way to ensure the New Jersey Student Learning
Standards are being incorporated in the classroom, and all students are meeting the expectations of the state. At
the conclusion of the course, students will have obtained the necessary tools for future academic and vocational
endeavors.
Advanced ELA – Grade 8
This course offers students a challenging preview to Advanced English Language Arts 9. Students will
follow a rigorous curriculum that teaches the same standards as English 8; however, extended learning activities
will require students to increase their critical thinking skills to include analysis, synthesis, and problem solving.
This course integrates reading, literature study, and writing, researching, speaking, and thinking skills. Students
in this course are expected to be avid readers and sophisticated writers. They will also be responsible for several
independent and creative learning activities. Emphasis is on the development of higher level thinking skills and
creativity through enrichment activities, verbal reasoning and problem solving, as well as the extension of grade
level curriculum. Students will also focus on 21st century skills which will prepare them for the future and
support them to become college and career ready. Also, students will be required to take an active role in the
learning process by leading group discussions and having a greater responsibility for their learning. All lessons
will be tailored this way to ensure the New Jersey Student Learning Standards are being incorporated in the
classroom and that all students are meeting the expectations of the state. The curriculum moves at an accelerated
pace with a more concentrated focus.
Prerequisites:
● 80% cumulative average in Advanced ELA 7 for MP 1 and 2
● 91% cumulative average in regular ELA 7 for MP 1 and 2
● Top tier LinkIt! scores in ELA 7
● Teacher Recommendation
ELA Intervention
The ELA Intervention class will systematically and explicitly reinforce reading and language skills based
on phonetics. Strategies for decoding and spelling words will be taught in a step-by-step sequential manner based
on individual student needs and readiness. The Wilson Reading and Language methodology will primarily be
12used to achieve reading and language goals. Instruction and content reflects the Common Core Standards in ELA
for their readiness levels, and will scaffold students to achieve progress in reading.
Prerequisites: State/District Assessment Scores and Individualized Education Program
13Mathematics
Math – Grades 7 & 8
The Big Ideas Math program in grades 7 & 8 has been systematically developed using learning and
instructional theory to ensure the quality of instruction. Students gain a deeper understanding of math concepts by
narrowing their focus to fewer topics at each grade level to ensure alignment with the Common Core Standards.
Students master content through inductive reasoning opportunities, engaging activities that provide deeper
understanding, concise stepped-out examples, rich thought-provoking exercises, and a continual building on what
has been previously taught.
Big Ideas Math delivers a unique and revolutionary curriculum providing a balanced instructional
approach of discovery and direct instruction. This approach opens doors to abstract thought, reasoning, and
inquiry as students persevere to answer the Essential Questions that drive instruction. Clearly stepped-out
examples complete the lesson and provide students with the precise language and structure necessary to build
mathematical understanding and proficiency. These courses will prepare students for the New Jersey Student
Learning Assessment.
Advanced Math (Pre-Algebra) – Grade 7
A fast paced course that covers all the topics in the seventh grade course and additionally a multitude of
eighth grade topics. Students will need to be self-motivated and hard-working to be successful in this course.
This course is designed to prepare students to take Big Ideas Algebra I in eighth grade. This course follows the
same format as the Big Ideas grade 7 & 8 courses.
Prerequisites:
● 80% test and quiz average in Advanced Math for MP 1 and 2
● 91% test and quiz average in Math 6 for MP 1 & 2*
● Top tier LinkIt! scores in Math 6
● Teacher Recommendation
*If a student is not enrolled in Advanced Math 6, he/she will be required to successfully complete a
Linkit! Leveling Up exam in the summer prior to 7th grade. Interested students will be contacted
individually.
Algebra I – Grade 8
14A fast paced course that covers a multitude of topics in the eighth grade course and also provides a full
Algebra I experience. Students will need to be self-motivated and hard-working to be successful in this course.
This course is designed to prepare students to take Geometry or Algebra II in high school. This course follows
the same format as the Big Ideas grade 7 & 8 courses.
Prerequisites:
● 80% cumulative average or better in Advanced Math for MP 1 and 2
● 91% cumulative average in regular Math for MP 1 and 2*
● Top tier LinkIt! scores in Advanced Math (Pre-Algebra)
● Teacher Recommendation
**If a student is not enrolled in Advanced Math 7, he/she will be required to successfully complete a
Linkit! Leveling Up exam in the summer prior to 8th grade. Interested students will be contacted
individually.
15Physical Education and Health
Overview of the Physical Education and Health Curriculum
Both seventh and eighth grade students are required to pass Physical Education and Health. All middle
school students will be enrolled in Physical Education for three marking periods and Health for one marking
period. While taking Physical Education, students will be required to dress in uniforms and participate in all class
activities, unless they are medically excused. Seventh and eighth grade students participate in a variety of
activities that incorporate physical fitness and team sports, as well as providing instruction in a variety of
individual activities.
Physical Education – Grade 7
The seventh grade Physical Education course is geared to develop organization, cooperation, discipline,
physical fitness, and team concept in sports. The students are introduced to a number of team sports, with special
emphasis placed on increased progression of individual skills, cooperative team building through sports activities,
and cooperative games unit. The purpose of the activities is twofold: (1) to mold individual techniques into the
team concept of sports; and (2) to create an interest to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.
Physical Education – Grade 8
The students will be introduced to a number of team sports; the development of individual skills and
techniques of these sport activities will be emphasized. The purpose of the activities will be to develop skills with
the hope of creating interest in team sports and lifelong fitness, i.e. allowing the students to realize any potential
they may have for any particular sport or to realize their individual desire to lead a healthy, active lifestyle.
Student evaluation is based primarily on class preparation as well as participation, performance tests, and written
tests.
Health – Grade 7
The 7th grade health curriculum focuses on physical, mental, and social health. Physical health topics
include nutrition, body changes, and an introduction to sexuality. Mental and social health topics include conflict
resolution and the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco and drugs.
Health – Grade 8
The intention of this course is to provide skills for a healthy lifestyle. The health course will include
promotion of social health and continue to focus on conflict resolution, and the use and abuse of alcohol, tobacco
and drugs. Students will acquire knowledge about the physical, emotional, and social aspects of human
relationships and sexuality, while gaining knowledge on STI’s.
Science
16Grade 7
The seventh grade science course is part of a two year integrated general science program that stresses
interrelationships. The themes of the course encompass catastrophic events, matter, light, and genetics. The
course focuses on the nature of science, science processes, and scientific inquiry through lecture, discussion,
research, and hands on experiences.
Advanced Science – Grade 7
This rigorous, year-long course is designed to engage students in Catastrophic Events, Matter, Light, and
Genetics. The course focuses on the nature of science, science processes, and scientific inquiry through lecture,
discussion, research, and hands on experiences. This class will include more emphasis on laboratory experience
and independent study. This class is designed to provide a base to later succeed in higher level sciences such as
Biology, Chemistry and Physics. The Advanced Science course will move at a faster pace and cover additional
lessons.
Students taking this course will:
• Relate concepts learned to answer higher level, critical thinking problems.
• Use mathematical/algebraic concepts and formulas in problem solving to explain the nature of the
universe.
• Work individually and in collaborative groups to collect and analyze data/graphs in laboratory
experiences.
•Explain information, data and results in written form on a regular basis.
Prerequisites:
● 91% test and quiz average for MP 1 & 2 in Science 6
● Top tier LinkIt! scores in Math 6
● Teacher Recommendation
Grade 8
The eighth grade science course is part of a two year integrated general science program that stresses
interrelationships. The themes of the course encompass earth science, ecology, and energy, machines, and
motion. The course focuses on the nature of science, science processes, and scientific inquiry through lecture,
discussion, research, and hands on experiences.
Advanced Science – Grade 8
17This rigorous, year-long course is designed to engage students in Earth science, Ecology, and Energy,
Machines and Motion and apply the concepts learned in Algebra I. This class will include more emphasis on
laboratory experience and independent study. This class is designed to provide a base to later succeed in higher
level sciences such as Biology, Chemistry and Physics. It will also meet both the State and Core Curricular
Standards.
The Advanced Science course will move at a faster pace and cover additional lessons. (Classes typically average
28 students)
Students taking this course will:
• Relate concepts learned to answer higher level, critical thinking problems.
• Use mathematical/algebraic concepts and formulas in problem solving to explain the nature of the
universe.
• Work individually and in collaborative groups to collect and analyze data/graphs in laboratory
experiences.
•Explain information, data and results in written form on a regular basis.
Prerequisites:
● 91% cumulative average in Science for MP 1 and 2
● 80% cumulative average or better in Advanced Science for MP 1 and 2
● Top tier LinkIt! scores in Math 7
● Teacher Recommendation
18Social Studies
World History – Grade 7
The seventh grade social studies curriculum is based on the themes of geography, government, economy,
intolerance, and evolution of empires. Each theme is examined as it applies throughout various time periods,
including Ancient Rome, The Middle Ages, The Renaissance, The Age of Exploration, The Industrial Revolution,
The French Revolution, and W.W.I. The influence of each of these themes on the development of nations, as well
as our own country as a democratic republic, is evaluated through presentation and a variety of meaningful
learning activities. Students will also focus on 21st century skills which will prepare them for the future and make
them college and career ready. Also, students will be required to take an active role in the learning process by
leading group discussions and having a greater responsibility for their learning. All lessons will be tailored this
way to ensure the New Jersey Learning Standards in ELA and Social Studies are being incorporated in the
classroom and that all students are meeting the expectations of the state.
Advanced World History – Grade 7
The seventh grade advanced social studies curriculum is a highly challenging curriculum based on the
themes of geography, government, economy, intolerance, and evolution of empires. Each theme is examined as it
applies throughout various time periods, including Ancient Rome, The Middle Ages, The Renaissance, The Age
of Exploration, The Industrial Revolution, The French Revolution, and the Russian Revolution. The influence of
each of these themes on the development of nations, as well as our own country as a democratic republic, is
evaluated through presentation and a variety of meaningful learning activities. The emphasis throughout each
unit is on higher level thinking skills and making connections as well noting the ongoing cause and effect chain
that exists in history. Students will also focus on 21st century skills which will prepare them for the future and
support them in becoming college and career ready. Advanced social studies students will be required to take an
active role in the learning process by leading group discussions and having a greater responsibility for their
learning through student based discovery and take home projects. All lessons will be tailored this way to ensure
the New Jersey Student Learning Standards in ELA and Social Studies are being incorporated in the classroom
and that all students are meeting the expectations of the state.
Prerequisites:
● 91% test and quiz average for MP 1 & 2 in SS6
● Top tier of district LinkIt! scores in ELA 6
● Teacher Recommendation
American History – Grade 8
19United States History is a required course that covers the period of time from 1607-1865. The course
focus will be centered on Colonization, Revolution, the early Republic, Civil War and Reconstruction. Students
will strengthen their critical thinking skills by examining these time periods and how they relate to today through
the integration of current events into the daily teaching. In addition, each student is provided with access to an
online textbook to further enhance their understanding of the material. Students will also focus on 21st century
skills which will prepare them for the future and support them to become college and career ready. Also, students
will be required to take an active role in the learning process by leading group discussions and having a greater
responsibility for their learning. All lessons will be tailored this way to ensure the New Jersey Student Learning
Standards in ELA and Social Studies are being incorporated in the classroom, and all students are meeting the
expectations of the state.
Advanced American History – Grade 8
United States History is a required course that covers the period of time from 1607-1860. The 8th grade
Advanced American History Curriculum is a highly-challenging one where students will lead discussions and
work on critical historical analysis. Students will build on their own knowledge of the themes in history. The
themes will be analyzed while focusing on Colonization, Revolution, and the early Republic. They will
strengthen their critical thinking skills by examining these time periods in American History to see how they
relate to today through the integration of current events into the daily teaching. In addition, each student is
provided with access to an online textbook to further enhance their understanding of the material. Students will
also focus on 21st century skills and citizenship which will prepare them for the future and support them to
become college and career ready. Also, students will be required to take an active role in the learning process by
leading group discussions and having a greater responsibility for their learning. Each marking period students
will be required to work independently on research assignments at home. All lessons will be tailored this way to
ensure the New Jersey Student Learning Standards in ELA and Social Studies are being incorporated in the
classroom and that all students are meeting the expectations of the state.
Prerequisites
● 80% cumulative average in Advanced SS for MP 1 and 2
● 91% cumulative average in regular SS for MP 1 and 2
● Top tier LinkIt! scores in ELA 7
● Teacher Recommendation
20English as a Second Language
Students identified as Limited English Proficient (LEP) will be assigned to an English as a Second
Language (ESL) program as required by New Jersey state code. The goal of instruction is to increase proficiency
in speaking, reading, writing, and understanding the English language and to incorporate the cultural aspects of
the students’ experience into their ESL instruction.
21Special Area
Courses
22Art
The middle school Art program consists of a 36-day cycle in which students at each grade level will be
introduced to a variety of art materials while learning the fundamentals of Art. Students will explore the elements
and principles of Art while engaging in creative projects which will further their abilities and knowledge of the art
world. Vocabulary, art history, careers, art criticism, and creative thinking skills will also be infused into this
program.
Computers
Computer Science & Financial Literacy I
This course emphasizes the 21st century skills designed to help students negotiate and thrive in today’s
constantly changing technological landscape. The course focuses on troubleshooting, problem solving, and
learning various types of software. Students work on Apple computers allowing many of them to learn a
completely new operating system. Students utilize Google Docs, where they are required to collaborate with
peers using online tools. Students learn how to use Garage Band, giving them a taste of software used in the
entertainment industry. Students are required to demonstrate understanding of office productivity software by
creating digital presentations and word documents. Also, a significant amount of time is spent developing search
skills and identifying the legal and ethical issues related to using online content. This course will also provide
information of basic financial literacy necessary for sound financial decision-making.
Computer Science & Financial Literacy II
This course is an extension of the seventh grade course. Students will be given time to examine IMovie, a
digital editing software suite. This continues their exploration of digital media editing, building on their
experience with Garage Band in seventh grade. At the end of this course, students will demonstrate proficiency in
document editing, presentation building, using a simple database, using a search engine, and other related topics.
Again, students will be asked to discuss the legal and ethical issues related to using online content. This course is
designed with the intention of developing students’ 21st century skills. This course will also provide information
of basic financial literacy necessary for sound financial decision-making.
General Music
Grade 7
23This music course is designed to provide all students with a basic understanding of music notation,
rhythm, music terminology, musical instrument families, percussion rudiments, and techniques on snare drum, as
well as the opportunity to explore various genres of music through listening and analyzing. Through class
discussion, and exciting hands-on projects, we will invent instruments, and create our own musical groups. This
will entail making our own CDs, designing T-shirts, tour busses, bumper stickers, and planning our groups’
performances. In this course, we will also investigate the importance of music in today’s society and in all of our
lives. We will discover multitudes of ways in which music affects the mind, and can improve our health and
well-being.
Grade 8
This music course is designed to provide all students with a more in-depth understanding of music
notation, rhythm, music terminology, musical instrument families, advanced percussion rudiments and techniques
on the snare drum, as well as the opportunity to explore various genres of music through listening and analyzing.
In this course, we will be covering fundamentals of conducting a musical ensemble, as well as introducing
musical theater which consists of listening to and discussing the in-depth meaning behind select songs from well-
known musicals. We will also be conducting interviews of student musicians in our own schools, and discussing
current issues in music. This course will conclude with a music creativity project that will require imagination,
originality, and you guessed it – creativity!!
24Course Options
25Music Course Options
Band
The Concert Band is a full-year elective class that is open to all students who want to learn a musical
instrument. The Concert Band is mainly comprised of seventh and eighth grade students who have studied
musical instruments in their elementary school bands, but is open to all students who want to work hard and learn
music in an ensemble setting. The band meets daily and mostly learns music of a classical nature. The ensemble
performs two to four concerts over the course of the school year.
Concert Choir
This course is designed to provide choir students with the wonderful opportunity to develop basic music
terminology, proper singing techniques, tone production, diction, vocal intonation, vocal memory, musical
notation, and rhythm reading. Concert choir exposes the students to music theory and a variety of fun but
challenging music, and through this activity, the students will learn to sing individually, in small groups, and with
a large vocal ensemble. They will also perfect their performance skills, ability to critique themselves and others,
and improve their stage presence, which is extremely important for any middle school student or musician. Music
memorization, attendance, and daily practice are significant requirements of this course. Concert choir rehearsals
will consist of warming up our voices using a series of fun and engaging choir warm-up exercises and tongue
twisters, rehearsing musical selections which include learning individual parts, then fitting each part into the
ensemble, which improves listening skills, vocal range, and vocal technique. Members of the Concert Choir will
perform a Winter and a Spring Concert, during both the school day and the evening, and may also perform for
several events during the school year such as Middle School Orientation, Barnes and Noble Night, and the Art
Show.
Prerequisites
● Interested students will sign up for vocal auditions during the first few weeks of school.
26World Language Course Options
French – Grade 7
Seventh grade students will be enrolled in a 36-day cycle of French. Students will be introduced to
linguistic skills with an emphasis on the development of listening, speaking, reading, and writing in a foreign
language. Proficiency is taught through oral and written activities. Aspects of French culture from various
countries are also introduced.
French – Grade 8
In grade 8, students will continue the study of French in a marking 36-day cycle using different activities.
Pronunciation and intonation are practiced through oral practice. Students will be able to communicate orally
across specific speaking situations while also demonstrating cultural awareness.
Spanish – Grade 7
Seventh grade students will be enrolled in a 36-day cycle of Spanish. Students will concentrate on
classroom commands and objects, basic greetings, farewells and courtesy phrases as well as food and aspects of
culture via celebrations in Spain and Latin America.
Spanish – Grade 8
Eighth grade students will continue the study of Spanish in a 36-day cycle. They will continue their
language study with a review of classroom commands and objects and learn the alphabet, numbers, weather, date
and time. Studying a foreign language enhances knowledge of one’s own so particular attention will be made to
the differences and similarities between Spanish and English, particularly in the context of grammar
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