Curriculum

	Standard Curriculum
6 th Grade	7 th Grade	8 th Grade
Advisor Base	Advisor Base	Advisor Base
Reading	Reading	Reading
Language Arts	Language Arts	Language Arts
Math	Math	Math
Problem Solving	Problem Solving	Problem Solving
Science	Science	Science
Social Studies	Social Studies	Social Studies
Physical Education	Physical Education	Physical Education
Technology	Technology	Technology
Music Exploration	Health

2007 - 2008 Exploratory Courses

Academic Lab
This activity is designed for students who need additional time or help with academic assignments. Students who fail to complete assignments will be automatically assigned to this section for a period of at least nine weeks. Students may also “choose” to go to the lab for additional assistance or to catch up on work from an absence.

Art
Students will explore a variety of art media through diverse art activities. Some of these areas of exploration will include calligraphy, origami, batik, sketching, weaving, watercolor and sculpture.

Ballroom Dancing
“ Gotta Dance Ballroom” will focus on basic ballroom steps to several dances. Activities are designed to enhance social skills and self confidence. Ballroom dancing gives students the opportunity to participate in the performing arts as well as a competitive sport.

Band
Interested in an upbeat program? The WFMS band is open to those students with prior band experience who are interested in basic to advanced instrumental music instruction. Groups will perform music ranging from traditional to popular. Several performances will be held throughout the year. Students without prior band experience will be considered with permission of the instructor.

Chess Club
Students will develop the problem solving skills associated with the game of chess. The ability to logically predict, develop offensive and defensive strategies will be explored. Students will also be expected to develop and maintain a strict “code of honor” as it relates to competition.

Choir
The West Franklin Middle School Choir is a group dedicated to making students the best singers and musicians they can be. This group will perform several styles of music ranging from popular to traditional, learn about great musicians of the past and write some of their own music. All sixth graders will be required to participate in one quarter of music exploration.

Consumer Science
Students will explore the financial aspects of the business world including interactive stock market simulations. Students will also design and operate the Falcon’s Nest, a school store where supplies and snacks are sold.

Cooking
Students will learn the art of preparation of an assortment of healthy foods. These foods will consist of anything from salads, snack foods to main courses. We will also be covering measuring, cooking and the nutritional value of these foods.

Digital Photography/Graphic Design
Students will learn the use of many features of digital cameras. Photo software will be used to increase student’s skills in downloading, editing and enhancing photographs for student portfolios.

Health
Students will explore several topics related to personal health which includes substance abuse, community environmental health, nutrition and wellness, and emotional wellness. All seventh grade students will be required to complete one quarter of this activity.

Journalism
Students will explore basic principles of written journalism. Developing interview and comprehensive writing skills are a vital component in this activity. Class members are responsible for producing our school newspaper. This course is open to 8 th students with permission of the instructor required.

Lego Robotics
This exploratory course is designed utilizing LEGO Education sets with award winning software and standards-based activity packs that integrate math, science and technology into engaging hands-on classroom projects. Students will design computer programs which operate robotic units.

Lifetime Sports
Lifetime sports offers students the opportunity to learn and participate in the skills of sports than can be played throughout one’s lifetime. Activities include: Frisbee, horseshoes, washers, ladder golf, whiffleball/softball, table tennis, pickle ball, aerobics and general fitness activities.

Weight Lifting
This is an introductory course on the proper techniques and form of weight lifting. Emphasis will be on safety and technique. Both boys and girls of all strength levels are encouraged to participate.

Ms. Wizard Science
Ms. Wizard Science is a hands-on science exploratory class which builds on critical thinking and evaluative skills. Students will complete a variety of activities and experiments similar to those seen on “Beakman’s World”. Each student will also design and complete a long term science project of their choosing.