Enrichment

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

6th Grade Study Skills
This class will prepare the 6th grade student for the transition to Junior High. The student will learn how to effectively use the agenda, learn time management and study tips, increase organizational skills, note taking, test taking, and more.  The students will be given the opportunity to complete homework during a supervised study time at the end of the period.

6th Grade Community Outreach
Students will learn how to be effective disciples in the community by serving others through a variety of activities.  Through field trips and hands-on projects the students will learn the importance of becoming a true servant in God’s Kingdom. One of the main goals of Western Christian Schools is to prepare the students to “therefore go and make disciples of all the nations …”  (Matthew 28:19).

6th Grade Drama
In this class, students will learn theater history, and various components of theater such as costume, lighting, and makeup techniques. The students will then experience basic acting monologue and scene study. The students will apply this knowledge to actual productions for chapels and other various activities throughout the quarter.

6th Grade Speech
This course includes instruction covering the different types of speeches including: persuasive, impromptu and informative. The course will also focus on the interrelatedness of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and viewing. Students will enhance their research skills as well as further develop the use of higher level cognitive skills such as analysis and synthesis. In addition to these learning activities, students will participate in the development of their own speeches throughout the quarter.

7th Grade Shakespeare Studies
Shakespeare should never be boring! This is an action- packed, on your feet class where students will learn to love Shakespeare.  The students will study the man, his times, his works, and by the end of quarter be on their way to becoming Shakespearean actors! The students will have the opportunity to participate in plays which will bring a better understanding and appreciation to these classic works.

7th Grade Computer
Students build additional skills and confidence with typing and using the Microsoft Office with a series of hands-on projects.  Mavis Beacon Teaches Typing helps students to master keyboard and work on fingering and accuracy.  Students learn report writing format using MLA.  Programs introduced to students include Microsoft Excel, Desktop Publishing and PowerPoint.  In addition the “I Safe” Curriculum is covered, which teaches students internet safety and etiquette.

7th Grade Art
This course will explore creativity in art with hands-on projects in several mediums such as oils, water colors, sketching, and sculpturing.  The class will study the basic elements such as line, shape, color, value, texture, form and space. The students will also examine the works of famous artists and try their hand at imitating the works of the masters.

7th Grade Life Skills
This course teaches units in health, home economics and financial management from a Biblical World View:

• Focuses on the importance of good nutrition and exercise.
• Covers the basic skills of sewing and cooking. The students’ will learn proper food handling and cooking tips as well as sewing from a pattern and operating a sewing machine. 
• Learn the basics of financial management. Bible-based curriculum uses an interesting story and fun activities to teach kids the basics about money.

8th Grade High School 101
This course is specifically designed for 8th graders to become better prepared for high school. The class will cover such topics as goal setting, having a positive attitude, career planning, choosing high school courses and preparing for high school entrance exams.  The students will meet with high school guidance counselors to gain more insight into the expectations for high school.

8th Grade Spanish
This course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental principles of the Spanish language. The emphasis will be on communication and comprehension of the spoken and written forms of Spanish. The students will be immersed in every day conversational Spanish and learn the basic forms of the written language.  Students will take Spanish a total of two quarters.

8th Grade Habits of Highly Effective Teens
The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens, by Stephen R. Covey, gives young people a set of proven tools to deal successfully with real life. The class is a means to help improve student performance; reduce conflicts, disciplinary problems, and truancy; and enhance cooperation and teamwork among parents, teens, and teachers.

Optional Programs
Students may opt out of enrichment and enroll in the following programs with written parent permission:
Choir – All year (Bradley)
Band—All year (program pending) (Bradley)
Rosetta Stone Language Program—All year (Hine)