Jr. High Course Catalog 2024-25- DRAFT 1/23/24.docx

TABLE OF CONTENTS LETTER FROM THE SUPERINTENDENT……………………………..…….… 3 PROFILE OF A GRADUATE…………………………………………………………4 SCHOOL CONTACT INFORMATION……………………………………..….... 5 ABOUT OUR SCHOOLS………………………………………………………….... 6 ADDITIONAL INFORMATION……………………………………………………..7 BELL SCHEDULE…………………………………………………………………….…8 JUNIOR HIGH CAREER TECHNICAL EDUCATION PATHWAYS…………8 GENERAL INFORMATION…………………………………………………………..9 High School Credit Courses for 8th Grade Students Graduation Requirements and Information………………...…….9 Honor Graduates…………………………...……………………..………12 Department of Education “Smart Core” Curriculum…….…....13 Student Transfers………………………………………………………....14

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS Grade 7 Courses

English………………………………………………...…...…….. 15 Mathematics…………………………………………...………...15 Science………………………………………………………..…...15 Social Studies…………………………….……………………… 16 Physical Education / Health & Safety……..……………..16 Electives…………………………………………………............17

Grade 8 Courses

English……………….…….………………………………….……20 Mathematics…………………………………………….…….....20 Science…………………………………………………..………… 21 Social Studies…………………………………………..………..21 Physical Education………………………………..…………….22 Electives…….……………………………………………..……….22 LOOKING TO HIGH SCHOOL……………………………………………………..28

Dear Students and Parents,

What an exciting time as we begin planning for the next year of your child’s life. The process of course selection is an important part of your student’s education. As we finish the first half of the school year, this is a great time to have post-secondary discussions with your child. I know you may be thinking it is too early to discuss college and career, but it is precisely the time to explore college and career opportunities. ACT, Inc. released a college readiness report titled, “The Forgotten Middle,” that reported the level of academic achievement students attain by eighth grade has a bigger impact on their college and career readiness than any academic experience in high school. College and Career Readiness is dependent on a number of behaviors and choices in the junior high environment both academic and psychosocial. Students who display academic discipline by developing good study habits, consistently completing work, maintaining orderly conduct and positive relationships with school personnel are more likely to perform well in school. I hope this time presents an opportunity for you to work closely with your child and the school to talk about your student’s interests and future possibilities available to your child. Bentonville Schools boasts endless opportunity for students, and I encourage you to take advantage of the academically rigorous opportunities available, as well as extracurricular activities. I know you will find the counselors and academic staff helpful during this time of exploration. Please take advantage by asking questions and having conversations with our talented teachers. We are fortunate to have a comprehensive academic program and outstanding professional staff. We are appreciative of our families who make this school community the top district in the state.

Sincerely,

Debbie Jones, Ed.D. djones@bentonvillek12.org / (479) 254-5000 500 Tiger Boulevard Bentonville, AR 72712 bentonvillek12.org

School Contact Information

Fulbright Junior High School 5303 SW Bright Road Bentonville, AR 72713 Phone: (479) 802-7000 Fax: (479) 271-1110 Callie Sanchez, Principal - csanchez@bentonvillek12.org

Joseph Herrington, Assistant Principal - jherrington@bentonvillek12.org Danielle Renfroe, Assistant Principal – drenfroe@bentonvillek12.org

Jenny Brown, Counselor – jebrown@bentonvillek12.org Lara Melchiori, Counselor – lmelchiori@bentonvillek12.org

Grimsley Junior High School 850 North Vaughn Road Centerton, AR 72719 Phone: (479) 360-7500 Fax: (479) 367-8092

Dr. Skyler Brown, Principal - skbrown@bentonvillek12.org Joshua Turpin, Assistant Principal - jturpin@bentonvillek12.org Jeff Strickler, Assistant Principal - jstrickler@bentonvillek12.org Jennifer Bushong, Assistant Principal -jbushong@bentonvillek12.org Karen Childers, Counselor - kchilders@bentonvillek12.org Samantha Valdes , Counselor - svaldes@bentonvillek12.org Lincoln Junior High School 1206 NW Leopard Lane Bentonville, AR 72712 Phone: (479) 254-5250 Fax: (479) 271-1128 Josh Thompson, Principal – jothompson@bentonvillek12.org Kim Fernandez, Assistant Principal – kfernandez@bentonvillek12.org Alex McKnight, Assistant Principal – amcknight@bentonvillek12.org April Cartee, Counselor – acartee@bentonvillek12.org Deborah Jefferson, Counselor – djefferson@bentonvillek12.org

Washington Junior High School 1501 NE Wildcat Way Bentonville, AR 72712 Phone: (479) 254-5345 Fax: (479) 271-1191

Timothy Sparacino, Principal – tsparacino@bentonvillek12.org Nathan Little, Assistant Principal – nlittle@bentonvillek12.org Blake Cook, Assistant Principal – bcook@bentonvillek12.org Julie Kramer, Counselor – jkramer@bentonvillek12.org Marla York, Counselor – mayork@bentonvillek12.org

Kelly Boortz, Executive Director of Middle Level Education 479.254.5181 Shannon Clark, Middle Level Administrative Assistant 479.254.5020

About Our Schools

Established in 1841, Bentonville Schools is the premier public school system in Arkansas serving more than 20,000 students in kindergarten through 12th grade. Twenty-four schools, spanning more than 140 miles across Northwest Arkansas, call the district home. Bentonville Schools is critically acclaimed for its academics, arts and athletics and is committed to excellence through innovative, inspiring learning experiences. For more information, visit https://www.bentonvillek12.org/ Fulbright Junior High School - https://www.bentonvillek12.org/o/fjhs Fulbright Junior High serves as a leading school in the state for academics, athletics and the arts by focusing on three core beliefs: ● We are successful when we learn in relationship (student to student, student to teacher, teacher to teacher and school to community). ● We are successful when we learn with rigor and relevance. ● We are successful when we learn beyond intellect. Our commitment to these values emboldens students to collaborate, take risks and build real-world skill sets. Whether it is programming a next generation robot, refining a choral performance, putting in an extra hour of practice on the field or picking up a good book, there is an opportunity waiting for each student here in the Fulbright Community. Grimsley Junior High School – https://www.bentonvillek12.org/o/gjhs Grimsley Junior High is named in honor of the late Rex Grimsley, a rancher and businessman in Benton County. ● Grimsley Junior High inspires students to engage in innovative learning to develop global perspective, resilience and high expectations as they grow to serve the Bentonville community. ● Students and staff are committed to our campus motto: We inspire. We empower. We succeed. ● As a staff we are committed to creating a strong academic culture for students in preparation for success at Bentonville West High School. Lincoln Junior High School - https://www.bentonvillek12.org/o/ljhs Lincoln Junior High is a vibrant school committed to creating proactive citizen leaders. ● It is our mission and vision to empower our student body to DREAM, LEAD, ACHIEVE and SERVE. Our service minded school culture has fostered student voice, passion and motivation. ● Our pillars of success lie rooted in Response to Intervention and serving students based on their individual needs, enrichment, interests, character development and high quality teaching and learning. ● We see ourselves as a team, committed to nurturing a passion for learning. Our purpose is to be agents of change, both inside and outside of school, using our passion and PRIDE. Washington Junior High School - https://www.bentonvillek12.org/o/wjhs Washington Jr. High School (WJHS) strives to be a school where: ● A positive, inspirational culture supports and challenges students to excel beyond what is measured on standardized tests. ● Faculty and staff members work collaboratively and take collective responsibility to ensure high levels of student learning. ● Students are inspired to engage in authentic, rigorous challenges that they know to be important and acquire the skills to enable them to succeed in an increasingly innovative world. Inspiring and achieving excellence in all we do, that’s The Wildcat Way.

Additional Information

Academic Services provides links to curriculum, calendars, student handbook, bell schedule and the junior high course catalog. BentonvilleK12.org > Menu > Departments > Academic Services > Middle Level Grades and Attendance can be accessed by parents anytime in Home Access Center (HAC). BentonvilleK12.org > Schools > Choose a school > Menu >Parents > Grades - Check Grades > Check Student Grades (7-12) Home Access Center

Service to You Photos and contact information for your campus leaders are available on our website. BentonvilleK12.org > Menu > Departments > Academic Services > Middle Level

Social Media Follow your campus social media accounts for up to date information about changes in the daily bell schedule, news and opportunities. When you follow a schools’ Facebook account, you can also select see first so you asee that page’s newest posts at the top of your newsfeed. Also, follow the social media accounts for Bentonville Schools for district news. My Payments Plus My Payments Plus is the district’s new forum for payments of fees and dues. Courses with fees in our course catalog will be assigned in MPP. BentonvilleK12.org > Menu > Parents > Fees-Online Fees Send Money to School Send Money to School is the district’s portal for depositing lunch money only. BentonvilleK12.org > Menu > Parents > Lunch Accounts Etrieve - Etrieve is the district portal for parents to complete forms electronically. Parents use this in the summer for registration updates and residency verification forms but you may see it used more frequently. BentonvilleK12.org > Menu > Parents > Forms-Online Forms (Etrieve)

Bell Schedules - Changes in our bell schedule (day schedule) will be posted on FB and Twitter. BentonvilleK12.org > Our Schools > Choose a school > Menu > Students >Bell Schedule Student Handbooks include policies and procedures on attendance, discipline and more. BentonvilleK12.org > Menu > Departments > Student Services > Handbooks

Should you have other inquiries, call your child’s campus or admin at 479.254.5020 or 479.254.5131.

Junior High School Bell Schedule subject to change for the 2024-2025 school year

Time

ADay

BDay

8:35-9:55 a.m.

1st Hour

5th Hour

10:00-11:20 a.m.

2nd Hour

6th Hour

11:20 a.m.-1:20 p.m.

3rd Hour *Lunch*

7th Hour *Lunch*

1:25-2:10 p.m.

Seminar

2:15-3:35 p.m.

4th Hour

8th Hour

Monday

Tuesday Wednesday Thursday

Friday

ADay

BDay

ADay

BDay

A Day or B Day

Friday will alternate between A Day and B Day schedules.

Junior High Career & Technical Education Pathways

Early career pathways provide students with an initial opportunity to experience a variety of career and technical elective courses within their assigned junior high school. If a specifc program is unavailable at their designated junior high school, students are not at a disadvantage, as foundational courses are also offered in the ninth grade. The elective courses in junior high are crafted for exploration. Students are not committed to a particular pathway simply by opting for an elective course. 8

Course Information Guide for Grades 7 & 8

A. General Information The information provided in this guide has been prepared to help students develop a long-term academic and course selection plan for the 2024-25 school year. Master Schedule The master schedule of student courses is developed following course registration conferences where students choose courses they would like to take. Every effort is made to spread out the courses so students have a wide variety of choices. Unfortunately, some courses will appeal to a smaller enrollment population, resulting in only one or two sections of the course. Students will need to prioritize the courses they want to take and have alternate selections for those courses that may be closed or present scheduling conflicts. B. AdvancedCourses The Bentonville Schools administration encourages each student to encounter rigorous curriculum in as many ways as possible. Seventh grade students have four advanced course options and eighth graders have many options including courses that are taken for high school credit. Advanced courses are noted in the course description section. Students who previously qualified for Gifted & Talented services in Arkansas must be enrolled in an advanced course to be coded with ADE DESE as receiving advanced services. ADE DESE (Arkansas Department of Education Division of Elementary and Secondary Education) honors our Accelerated/Advanced/Pre-AP as advanced. C. GraduationRequirementsandInformation Our junior high schools offer several courses which earn credit toward high school graduation and are listed below in the chart. For more information related to high school credit courses, see the course descriptions.

Course

Grade

Credit

Pre-AP Algebra I

8th

Accelerated Physical Science Integrated

8th

Leadership & Service Learning 8th

Media Communications

8th

Robotics I (FJHS ONLY)

8th

Spanish I

8th

Survey of Business

8th

Graduation Requirements

Subject

BSD Honors Diploma

Arkansas Diploma

English

4 Total Credits

4 Total Credits Must Include Algebra I, Geometry & Algebra II 3 Total Credits Must Include a Physical Science & Biology 3 Total Credits Must Include WHistory, US History, Civics & Economics

Math

Science

Social Studies

Physical Education

.5Credit

Health

.5Credit

Communications

.5Credit

Visual & Performing Arts

.5Credit

10Credits 1.0 Credit from this Category Required 1.0 Credit required for Class of 2026 & Beyond 2.0 Credits of the Same Language Required

6Credits Must include 1.0 Credit 1.0 Credit Required for Class of 2026 &Beyond Not Required at this Time

Other Electives Career Studies Computer Science World Language

Total Credits

26Credits

22Credits

This chart is an overview. See the next page for additional notes. See page 30 for a recommended plan for competitive college enrollments. See pages 31-34 for a variety of sample Student Success Plans.

Graduation Requirements Arkansas graduates must earn a minimum of 22 credits. Credits are earned at the rate of .5 credits per class per semester. Advisory/Flex classes are non-credit periods. Twenty-two credits must be academic classes (cannot include “non academic credits” or NAC courses). Arkansas Smart Core Algebra II can be excluded from the requirements by completing a Smart Core Waiver Form (see page 29 Helpful Vocabulary). Math Third and fourth math choices: Transitional Math Ready, Algebra II, College Prep Quantitative Reasoning, Algebra III, AP PreCalculus, Statistics, AP Calculus AB, AP Calculus BC, AP Statistics, IB Math: Apps and Interpret I SL, IB Math: Apps and Interpret II SL and NWACC College Algebra. Comparable advanced and college courses may be substituted where applicable. Some Career Studies courses may also apply for math or science credits. See course descriptions. Math and Science Flex Credits Arkansas allows some computer science credits to be used as math or science credits. See the at-a-glance table for Career Studies courses where these are designated. Social Studies AP US Government and Politics I (both semesters) may be substituted for the .5 credit of Civics. NWACC Government also qualifies. AP Microeconomics and AP Macroeconomics (both semesters) must be completed to substitute for the .5 credit of Economics. Professional Communications Courses that satisfy the Communications requirement include: Personal or Professional Communication, Pre-AP English I (taken on our campuses), Debate I, Forensics and NWACC Public Speaking. Non Academic Credits Non Academic credits (NAC) are for courses in athletics (when a course is repeated), physical education (beyond one credit) and the PSAT/ACT/SAT prep course. These are recognized as local credits instead of state credits. In addition to course requirements for graduation, the Arkansas Legislature periodically adds requirements that are embedded in courses or otherwise required beyond coursework. Current requirements are listed below. Civics Exam - Act 478 of 2017, (A.C.A. § 6-16-149) requires students to pass a portion of the US Naturalization Test used by US Citizenship and Immigration Services. Students are required to get 60 of the 100 questions correct. If a student does not answer 60 questions correctly, the online test will revert to tutorial lessons until the student can pass the test. Examples of the test can be accessed at uscis.gov > Citizenship > Learners > Naturalization Test and Study Resources > Study for the Test >Test Yourself! 2008 Civics Practice Test > Start Practice Test CPR - Act 1016 of 2013, (A.C.A. § 6-16-143) requires students to complete CPR Training. Certification is not required. This is embedded in the health course that is a required credit for graduation. Community Service - The class of 2027 and beyond are required by Act 237 of 2023 to complete 75 hours of service for graduation. The service is divided into 15 hours for the freshman year and 20 hours for each of the other years in high school. See Bentonvillek12.org > Menu > Departments > Academic

Services > Secondary > Community Service Requirement. This program is still optional for students in earlier graduating classes. Computer Science - The class of 2026 and beyond are required by Act 654 of 2023, (A.C.A. § 6-16-146) to earn one credit in an ADE-approved high school computer science course in grades 8-12. These are course codes starting with 465 or 565. Digital Literacy - Act 1280 of 2013, (A.C.A. § 6-16-1406) requires that students complete a course with online learning features. English I, II, III and IV (all levels; all iterations of the course) in Bentonville Schools satisfy the digital learning requirements. Personal Finance - AR Act 480 of 2017, (A.C.A. § 6-16-135) requires students to complete a course with personal finance standards. We embed that into economics courses. Other courses meeting the requirement include the Personal Finance career studies (CTE) course and the College Prep Quantitative Reasoning math course. NWACC Economics does not qualify for this requirement. D. Honor Graduates Students may graduate from Bentonville Schools with Honors or High Honors if they meet the specified criteria for their particular graduating class. Any student transferring from a private school or who has been previously homeschooled is eligible to be recognized as graduating with Honors or High Honors if he/she meets the established criteria listed below. Students meeting graduation requirements in less than eight semesters may qualify for honors listed below omitting only the eight semester requirement. The valedictorian, salutatorian and top ten graduates are selected from the High Honors graduates. Honor Graduates - Honors In addition to meeting graduation requirements for Bentonville Schools and AR Smart Core*, a student must ● Have a 3.5000 cumulative GPA at the end of eight semesters. GPA is not rounded up from four places. ● Complete eight credits from advanced courses. ADE DESE honors our Accelerated/Advanced/Pre-AP, AP/IB, college enrollments, internships/labs or apprenticeships in Ignite Professional Studies or Career Studies and college courses as advanced. ● Earn a minimum of two credits from AP or IB or college courses. ● Successfully complete 26 credits by the end of eight semesters, and ● Earned at least two credits of high school level world language or six credit hours of college level world language. These credits must be from the same world language. Honor Graduates - High Honors In addition to meeting graduation requirements for Bentonville Schools and AR Smart Core*, a student must ● Earn a 3.7500 cumulative GPA at the end of eight semesters. GPA is not rounded up from four places, ● Complete 12 credits from advanced courses. ADE DESE honors our Accelerated/Advanced/Pre-AP, AP/IB, college enrollments, internships/labs or apprenticeships in Ignite Professional Studies or Career Studies, and college courses as advanced. ● Earn a minimum of two credits from AP, or IB or college courses. ● Successfully complete 26 credits by the end of eight semesters, and ● Earn at least two credits of high school level world language or six credit hours of college level world language. These credits must be from the same world language. 12

*Students who fully complete the IB Diploma are eligible for Honors and High Honors even if they do not have AR Smart Core requirements. All other honors requirements must be met. Honor Graduates - Valedictorian The valedictorian is the senior student who meets all of the following criteria: ● meets the criteria to graduate with High Honors. ● has the highest GPA among the students who have met the criteria to graduate with High Honors. ● has been continuously enrolled at Bentonville Schools for four consecutive semesters as a full-time student, to include the spring semester of the senior year. ● has no home school credit on the high school transcript. In the event of a tie in GPA, co-Valedictorian will be named in lieu of Salutatorian.

Honor Graduates - Salutatorian The salutatorian is the senior student who meets all of the following criteria: ● meets the criteria to graduate with High Honors.

● has the second highest GPA among the students who have met the criteria for High Honors. ● has been continuously enrolled at Bentonville Schools for four consecutive semesters as a full-time student, to include the spring semester of the senior year.

● has no home school credit on the high school transcript. In the event of a tie in GPA, a co-Salutatorian will be named.

Honor Graduates - Top Ten Graduates The top 10 graduates of the senior class are those who meet all of the following criteria: ● meet the criteria to graduate with High Honors. ● have the 10 highest GPA among students who have met the criteria to graduate with High Honors. ● has been continuously enrolled at a Bentonville Schools HS for four consecutive semesters as a full-time student, to include the spring semester of the senior year. For students graduating in December, continuous enrollment for four consecutive semesters would conclude the fall semester of December graduation. E. ArkansasDepartmentofEducation“SmartCore”Curriculum Arkansas SMART CORE graduation requirements were developed by the ADE DESE to prepare students for college and other post-secondary educational opportunities. The SMART CORE graduation requirements differ slightly from Bentonville Schools graduation requirements and must be completed within the 24 credits required by Bentonville Schools for graduation. Arkansas Core differs from Arkansas Smart Core in that the math credits do not have to include Algebra II. See the Graduation Requirements table at the beginning of this catalog. All students are required to participate in the SMART CORE curriculum unless their parents or guardians, or the students if they are 18 years of age or older, sign a SMART CORE Waiver Form not to participate. This policy is to be included in student handbooks for grades 6-12. Students not participating in the SMART CORE curriculum will be required to fulfill the Core curriculum or the requirements of their IEP (when applicable) to graduate. While there are similarities between the two curriculums, following the Core curriculum may not qualify students for some scholarships and admission to certain colleges could

be jeopardized. Students initially choosing the Core curriculum may subsequently change to Smart Core curriculum provided they would be able to complete the required course of study by the end of their senior year. Students wishing to change their choice of curriculum should consult with their counselor to determine the possibility of changing. See Board Policy 5.14 for the most recent details. F. StudentTransfers Any student transferring from a school accredited by the Division of Elementary and Secondary Education (DESE) to a school in this District shall be placed into the same grade the student would have been in had the student remained at the former school. Any grades, course credits, and/or promotions received by a student while enrolled in the Division of Youth Services system of education shall be considered transferable in the same manner as those grades, course credits, and promotions from other accredited Arkansas public educational entities. Any student transferring from a school that is not accredited by the DESE to a District school shall be evaluated by District staff to determine the student’s appropriate grade placement. A student transferring from homeschool will be placed in accordance with Policy 4.6 - HOME SCHOOLING. Additional details may be found in the senior high schools’ course catalog and in Board of Education policy (both are available online at https://www.bentonvillek12.org/ ).

Course Descriptions 2024-25 - Grade 7 The information provided in this guide has been prepared to assist each student in developing a long-term program of academic preparation and in selecting courses for the 2024-25 school year. Students and their parents should carefully consider the curriculum offerings prior to determining course selection. Counselors and faculty advisors will assist students and parents in pre-enrollment and in planning for the future.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS

English 7 #37711R English 7 is a full-year daily course. Seventh graders will examine literary and informational texts through in-depth analysis and frequent writing. They will also develop written pieces across a variety of modes and will demonstrate an understanding of standard English, including usage, mechanics and sentence structure. Students will develop vocabulary skills to help their reading and writing processes, and they will practice independent reading. Advanced English 7 #37711P Advanced English 7 is a daily, full-year course designed to provide a challenging curriculum that is aligned to the Arkansas ELA standards. At the advanced level, students move at an accelerated pace and grapple with literary analysis of more complex texts. Students also complete collaborative and independent writing tasks and project assignments that allow for critical thinking and foster the communication skills needed for higher-level courses.

MATHEMATICS

Math 7 #37731R Math 7 is a daily, full-year course. The focus of Math 7 instruction will include: developing understanding and applying proportional relationships; developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations; solving problems involving scale drawings, and working with two and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area and volume and drawing inferences about populations based on samples. Advanced Math 7 #37731P Advanced Math 7 is a daily, full-year course designed to prepare students for Pre-AP Algebra I in the 8th-grade, as well as high school Advanced and AP math courses. All of the 7th-grade Arkansas Math Standards and one-half of the 8th-grade Arkansas Math Standards are included in this course. The other half of the 8th-grade math standards are included in junior high Pre-AP Algebra I. The focus of Advanced Math 7 instruction will include developing an understanding and applying proportional relationships; formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations; solving problems involving scale drawings, and working with two and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area, surface area and volume; drawing inferences about populations based on samples; and analyzing two-dimensional figures using angle, similarity and congruence.

SCIENCE

Science 7 #37721R Science 7 is a full-year course based on Arkansas Science standards. The course utilizes a variety of hands-on, minds-on activities that require students to continually build on and revise their knowledge of the structure and properties of matter, interdependent relationships in ecosystems, matter and energy in organisms and ecosystems, chemical reactions, earth’s systems, the history of earth and human impact. Students will apply the

engineering design process in different contexts throughout the year and utilize science and engineering practices. Students will also make connections with crosscutting concepts to work and think like a scientist. Advanced Science 7 #37721P Advanced Science 7 is a full-year course designed to increase the critical thinking, analytical reading and targeted communication skills necessary for higher-level courses. In addition to mastering the regular Science 7 curriculum, students participating in this course will engage in rigorous activities, while meeting the content standards expressed in the content framework. Students enrolled in 7th Grade Advanced Science will be expected to approach science with skills that support increased depth and rigor. Students will work within flexible groupings, experience an accelerated pace in areas of strength and be provided learning experiences that lead to advanced level products and/or performances.

SOCIAL STUDIES

7th Grade US History, Beginnings - 1850 #37771R 7th Grade US History builds on the foundational knowledge of civics, economics, geography and history, gained in Grades K-6. Social studies skills move from basic to more sophisticated and are used in combination to access and comprehend social studies content. Students develop foundational knowledge regarding patterns of change over time and the ways people view, construct and interpret history. 7th Grade US History focuses on US History from the pre-1492 beginnings through the pre-Civil War era. The course is chronological with the civics, economics and geography strands correlating to the historical eras. Advanced 7th Grade US History, Beginnings - 1850 #37771P Advanced 7th Grade US History builds on the foundational knowledge of civics, economics, geography and history, gained in Grades K-6. Social studies skills move from basic to more sophisticated and are used in combination to access and comprehend social studies content. Students develop foundational knowledge regarding patterns of change over time and the ways people view, construct and interpret history. Seventh grade US History focuses on US History from the pre-1492 beginnings through the pre-Civil War era. The course is chronological with the civics, economics and geography strands correlating to the historical eras. Advanced courses are designed to increase the critical thinking, analytical reading and targeted writing skills necessary for higher-level courses. In addition to mastering the regular 7th Grade US History curriculum, students participating in this course will engage in rigorous activities while meeting the content standards expressed in the content framework. Students enrolled in Advanced 7th Grade US History read challenging primary and secondary texts and analyze and synthesize their conclusions through writing.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION / HEALTH AND SAFETY

Physical Education / Health and Safety #377812 (Full) / #377811 (Semester) This one-semester or full-year required course exposes students to a wide variety of activities with an emphasis on physical fitness and lifetime skills and learning about basic health behaviors to determine the importance of assuming responsibility for personal health. Topics include personality, human body systems, growth and development, nutrition, fitness, alcohol and tobacco, illegal drugs, communicable and noncommunicable diseases, conflict resolution and basic first-aid and safety. Students will participate in drills, games and other activities of the sport or skill being taught. Students are expected to participate every day. Written work will also be requested. Periodically, students will take part in a physical fitness test.

Grade 7 Electives

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS

Introduction to Theatre #378700 Introduction to Theatre is a one-semester, visual and performing arts course that introduces students to the elements of theatre. Students will explore acting and the technical elements of theatre, including costume, makeup, lighting, set and sound, in a hands-on, student-centered environment. This course fulfills the 7th and 8th grade visual and performing arts requirement.

Theatre Fundamentals #37870B Prerequisite: Introduction to Theatre

Theatre Fundamentals is a performance-based class that builds upon the skills and foundations learned in Introduction to Theatre. Major units covered include acting (monologue, duo, group), musical theatre (solo, duo, group), costume (design & construction), makeup (design & construction), lighting (design & operation), sound (design & operation), scenery (design & construction), publicity/marketing and stage management. The course will culminate in the performance of a one-act play performance. Introduction to Competitive Speech: Forensics #37870F Introduction Competitive Speech: Forensics is a one-semester acting and public speaking course that helps develop skills for a future in speech & debate competition. Through active performance activities and textual analysis, students will develop the ability needed for future academic and career work with a strong focus on soft skills (speaking, listening, empathy, interpersonal, organizational and textual literacy skills). Introduction to Competitive Speech: Debate #37870D Introduction to Competitive Speech: Debate is a one-semester course focused on research, analytical thinking and listening. Through active performance activities and analysis, students will gain an understanding of the basics of competitive argumentation and oral advocacy. Visual Art 7 #377510 Visual Art 7 is a one-semester course designed to introduce students to secondary-level concepts in studio art. Students will view artists and works from different periods in history. Through lectures, demonstration, and hands-on projects, students will focus on both the concrete and abstract nature of art. The curriculum will be centered on the elements of art and principles of design. There is a $10 art fee for materials due the first week of class. Students will also be required to provide a sketchbook for the class. Band 7 #37754+ Prerequisites: Students must have completed two full semesters of band the previous year and have director approval. Transfer students need to meet with the band director on an individual basis. Band is a full-year course that provides students the opportunity to study in similar instrument groups and in large concert band. Students will continue to learn the basics of instrument fundamentals, reading music/rhythmic notation and independent musical performance. Rehearsals and performances outside of the school day are required. This program may have additional fees associated with participation.

Orchestra #37754+ Prerequisite: Previous orchestra experience

Orchestra is a full-year course,in which students who already play an orchestral stringed instrument will continue the study of the performance fundamentals, re-emphasizing technique, note reading, and rhythms. Level two music will be utilized. Students will need to have their own instrument or parents should be prepared to rent an instrument. Students will participate in regional competitions. Please see the orchestra teacher if you have questions about instrument rentals. This program may have additional fees associated with participation.

Choir #377531 (Girls/Semester) #377533 (Girls/Concert) #377532 (Boys/Semester) #377534 (Boys/Concert) Open-enrollment choruses are full-year or semester courses exploring a wide variety of music arranged for the beginning voice. Students will present concerts, which are open to the public. Literature is selected from reading clinics, regional and national conventions and professional choral recordings. This program may have additional fees associated with participation. Auditioned Advanced Women’s Chorus # 377535 Auditioned Women’s Chorus is a full-year course exploring a wide variety of music arranged for the female voice. Students will present concerts, which are open to the public. Literature is selected from reading clinics, regional and national conventions and professional choral recordings. This program may have additional fees associated with participation. Auditioned Advanced Men’s Chorus # 377536 Auditioned Men’s Chorus is a full-year course exploring a wide variety of music arranged for the male voice. Students will present concerts, which are open to the public. Literature is selected from reading clinics, regional and national conventions and professional choral recordings. This program may have additional fees associated with participation.

WORLD LANGUAGES

Introduction to Spanish Language and Culture #377410 In Introduction to Spanish Language and Culture, a one-semester course, students will learn benefits to learning a second language and studying various cultures. Students will have the opportunity to explore different Spanish-speaking countries and learn about various cultural practices from the Spanish-speaking world. Students will also learn basic Spanish pronunciation and conversational skills and will have opportunities to practice these skills in class with their peers and teacher. Completion of this course will help to prepare students for more structured exploration and mastery of the Spanish language in Spanish I at the junior high or high school level. There is a $2 fee for materials associated with this course.

CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION

Exploring Business Applications #399040 Exploring Business Applications is a one-semester course with emphasis given to computer concepts and operations, programming and design, computer software and the implications of technology in society and ethics. This course is designed to provide students with an understanding of the fundamental uses of computer applications and technology in business and careers. Students will have an opportunity to participate in the activities of Future Business Leaders of America (FBLA). Gateway to Technology Gateway to Technology courses are one-semester courses open to 7th and 8th graders. These are semester courses. Through hands-on projects, students explore how science has affected technology throughout history by applying concepts to STEM activities and projects. Students acquire knowledge and skills in problem solving, teamwork, collaboration and innovation. ● Design & Modeling #399120 Students will learn the uses of solid modeling. They will be introduced to the design process and shown how this technology has influenced their lives. Using design briefs or abstracts, students create models and documentation to solve problems.

● Automation & Robotics #399110 This introduction to Automation and Robotics Technology enables students to identify and investigate different types of robotics systems. Students engage in designing and analyzing robotics systems. ● Computer Science #377650 This introductory computer science course focuses on ● Computational thinking and Problem solving ● Data, Information and Security ● Algorithms and Programs ● Computers and Communications ● Professionalism and Impacts of Computing Family & Consumer Science Investigation #399080 Family and Consumer Science Investigation is a one semester course that emphasizes introductory competencies related to personal development, communication, relationships, home environment, nutrition and wellness, food safety and preparation, resource management, child development and clothing. Upon completion of this course, students will gain skills that will enable them to function more effectively as a family member, community leader and productive citizen. Students will have an opportunity to participate in the activities of Family, Career, and Community Leaders of America. Introduction Culinary Careers #39908A (WJHS Only) Introduction to Culinary Careers is a one semester course that provides a hands-on environment where students are encouraged to have an adventurous tasting experience. Students engage in numerous cooking labs, practice knife-cuts, learn baking measurements and work collaboratively within groups of fellow student-chefs. EAST #377620 EAST (Education Accelerated by Service and Technology) is a project-based, service-learning program designed to improve leadership and critical success skills. Students will deploy state-of-the-art technologies, be encouraged to think critically to creatively solve problems and become positive agents of change to improve the school, community or world. ATHLETICS Athletics requires students to maintain the current athletic requirements set by the Bentonville School District. Students must have coaches’ approval before enrolling. Athletics requires dedication and hard work every day, including practices before and/or after school. Students must be sure they have the available time. Students who enroll in athletics must remain in that class and participate the entire time the athletic course is scheduled unless the coach or a building administrator removes them for discipline or grades.

The following sports are a part of the athletic program for 7 th grade students: Football #99981K Volleyball#99982Z

Cross Country #99982Y Spirit Squad #99985+

Basketball#99981+ Track #99981U

Course Descriptions 2024-25 - Grade 8

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS

English 8 #38811R In English 8, students articulate ideas, analyze literary and informational texts, synthesize information, study vocabulary and write argumentative, expository and narrative pieces. Students further develop reading fluency and comprehension with a continued emphasis on reading strategies and literary studies. In this all-inclusive full-year language arts class that is aligned to the Arkansas ELA standards, students examine connections among reading, writing, grammar study and research as they hone comprehension and communication skills. Advanced English 8 #38811P Advanced English 8 is a full-year course designed to provide a challenging curriculum that is aligned to the Arkansas ELA standards. At the advanced level, students move at an accelerated pace and grapple with literary analysis of more complex texts. Students also complete collaborative and independent writing tasks and project assignments that allow for critical thinking and foster the communication skills needed. Reading Lab #388130 Students who are identified through Response to Intervention as needing additional support in literacy will be scheduled into this course to provide additional instruction in reading comprehension and composition skills while completing the 8th grade English curriculum.

MATHEMATICS

Math 8 #38831R Math 8 is a full-year course designed to prepare students for Algebra I. The focus of Math 8 instruction will include: formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. Math Lab #388320 Math Lab supports the 8th grade math curriculum while also filling foundational gaps in student understanding. Smaller class sizes allow students more teacher contact time and allows teachers to incorporate a variety of teaching strategies. Students who are minimally proficient or below proficient on the MAP assessment and/or identified through Response to Intervention may be placed in this course. Pre-AP Algebra I (1.0 High School Credit) #430301 Pre-AP Algebra I is a full-year, rigorous course designed to prepare students for high school Advanced and AP math courses. This course embeds the College Board Pre-AP Algebra I course with one-half of the Grade 8 Arkansas Mathematics Standards. The first half of Grade 8 math standards were taught in Advanced Math 7. “Pre-AP Algebra 1 course is designed to deepen students' understanding of linear relationships by emphasizing patterns of change, multiple representations of functions and equations, modeling real-world scenarios with functions and methods for finding and representing solutions of equations and inequalities” (College Board). Pre-AP Algebra I is a high school credit course. The grade will be calculated into the student’s high school GPA and will be included on the student’s high school transcript. Students who successfully complete this advanced course are on the path to take accelerated high school coursework in mathematics (such as AP Calculus and/or AP Statistics).

Recommendation: This is an advanced class that an 8th grade student will receive high school credit toward graduation requirements. Due to the advanced nature of this course, it is recommended students complete the Advanced Math 7 course with a grade of “A” or “B” both semesters and have a 245 on the Math portion of the MAP assessment.

SCIENCE

Science 8 #38821R Science 8 is a full-year course based on Arkansas science standards and will help students conceptually understand science in the world around them. The course will utilize a variety of hands-on, minds-on activities that will require students to continually build on and revise their knowledge of energy, forces and interactions, space systems, the history of Earth, natural selection, adaptations, growth, development, and reproduction of organisms, and waves and electromagnetic radiation. Students will apply the engineering design process in different contexts throughout the year and utilize science and engineering practices. Students will also make connections with crosscutting concepts to work and think like a scientist. Accelerated Physical Science Integrated (1.0 High School Credit) #423003 Accelerated Physical Science Integrated (8th Grade) is a full-year, intense high school credit course* designed to prepare students to take Advanced Placement science courses in high school and will include algebraic reasoning to help students conceptually understand science in the world around them. The course includes foundational physical science standards from 8th grade science, 9th grade physical science standards, life science and earth science. Students will be engaged through hands-on, minds-on activities while they explore matter and its interactions in relation to the periodic table and chemical reactions. They will apply their understanding of invisible forces and predict their work within a system, demonstrate understanding of energy and transfer within and out of a system by designing, building and refining a device that converts energy from one form to another. Additionally, students will understand waves, their properties and uses in information technology. Finally, students will demonstrate their understanding of human impact on ecosystems by designing, evaluating and refining a solution that will reduce the impacts of human activities on ecosystems. Students will utilize science and engineering practices and make connections with crosscutting concepts to work and think like a scientist. *8th Grade Accelerated Physical Science is a high school credit course. The grade will be calculated into the student’s high school GPA and will be included on the student’s high school transcript. Students who successfully complete this advanced accelerated course are on the path to take advanced high school science courses (such as AP Biology and AP Environmental Science).

Recommendation: Due to the advanced nature of this course, it is recommended students earned scores of “Ready” or “Exceeding” on the math and science portions of the ACT Aspire from 2022-23.

SOCIAL STUDIES

8th Grade US History, 1850 - 1930 & Arkansas History #38871R and #37872R 8th Grade US History, 1850-1930 focuses on the development of the United States from the pre-Civil War era of 1850 to the beginnings of the Great Depression in 1930. Arkansas History requires students to examine the civic, economic, geographic and historical aspects of the state from its origins to the present day. Students develop an understanding of the cause-and-effect relationships between events, recognize patterns of interactions and understand the impact of events in Arkansas and the United States within an interconnected world. The course is chronological with the civics, economics and geography strands correlating to the historical eras.

Advanced 8th Grade US History, 1850 - 1930 & Arkansas History #38871P and #37872P

Advanced 8th Grade US History, 1850-1930 focuses on the development of the United States from the pre-Civil War era of 1850 to the beginnings of the Great Depression in 1930. Arkansas History requires students to examine the civic, economic, geographic and historical aspects of the state from its origins to the present day. Students develop an understanding of the cause-and-effect relationships between events, recognize patterns of interactions and understand the impact of events in Arkansas and the United States within an interconnected world. The course is chronological with the civics, economics, and geography strands correlating to the historical eras. Advanced courses are designed to increase the critical thinking, analytical reading and targeted writing skills necessary for higher-level courses. In addition to mastering the regular 8th Grade US History and Arkansas History curriculum, students participating in this course will engage in rigorous activities while meeting the content standards expressed in the content framework. Students enrolled in Advanced 8th Grade US History and Arkansas History read challenging primary and secondary texts and they analyze and synthesize their conclusions through writing.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Physical Education/Health #388811 / 388850-Health & Safety In this one-semester or full year required course, students will be exposed to a wide variety of activities with an emphasis on physical fitness and lifetime skills. Topics include personality, human body systems, growth and development, nutrition, fitness, alcohol and tobacco, illegal drugs, communicable and noncommunicable diseases, conflict resolution and basic first-aid and safety. Students will participate in drills, games and other activities of the sport or skills taught. Students will be expected to participate every day. Written work may also be required. Physical fitness tests will also be included.

GRADE 8 ELECTIVES

VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS

Introduction to Theatre #378700 Introduction to Theatre is a one-semester, performing arts course that introduces students to the elements of theatre. Students will explore acting and the technical elements of theatre: costume, makeup, lighting, set and sound in a hands-on, student-centered environment. This course fulfills the seventh and eighth grade visual and performing arts requirement.

Theatre Fundamentals #37870B Prerequisite: Introduction to Theatre

Theatre Fundamentals is a performance-based class that builds upon the skills and foundations learned in Introduction to Theatre. Major units covered are: acting (monologue, duo, group), musical theatre (solo, duo, group), costume (design & construction), makeup (design & construction), lighting (design & operation), sound (design & operation), scenery (design & construction), publicity/marketing and stage management. The course will culminate in the performance of a one-act play performance. Introduction to Competitive Speech: Forensics #37870F Introduction Competitive Speech: Forensics is a one-semester acting and public speaking course that helps develop skills for a future in speech & debate competition. Through active performance activities and textual analysis, students will develop the ability needed for future academic and career work with a strong focus on soft skills (speaking, listening, empathy, interpersonal, organizational, and textual literacy skills).

Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32 Page 33 Page 34-35 Page 36

Made with FlippingBook - professional solution for displaying marketing and sales documents online