STILLWATER JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL

8th Grade

COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE

2024-2025

STILLWATER  JUNIOR  HIGH  SCHOOL

2024-2025

CURRICULUM  

GUIDE

ADMINISTRATIVE  DIRECTORY

TELEPHONE     533-6420

CRYSTAL SZYMANSKI- PRINCIPAL

KANE MACH- ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

ADAM ELGHADI- ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

COUNSELORS

TELEPHONE   533-6422

ANDREA LYON

SUSAN BRIEN

SUZANNE BIRDWELL

ACCREDITED BY

OKLAHOMA  STATE  DEPARTMENT  OF  EDUCATION

ICAP

OK CAREER GUIDE

WHAT IS AN INDIVIDUAL CAREER ACADEMIC PLAN (ICAP)?

An ICAP is a multi-year process that guides students as they explore career, academic and postsecondary opportunities. Family, students and educators collaborate to develop the ICAP, which equips students with the awareness, knowledge and skills to create their own meaningful exploration of college and career opportunities. The ICAP is an evolving document that reflects students’ changing passions, aptitudes, interests and growth.

WHY IS AN INDIVIDUAL CAREER ACADEMIC PLAN (ICAP) VALUABLE?

Life beyond high school requires different competencies than in the past, and are ever changing. By 2025, three of four Oklahoma jobs will require education or training beyond high school. When students complete an ICAP, they discover which pathways fit their unique talents and what kind of academic preparation and experiences will prepare them for in-demand careers, some of which may not even exist when they graduate from high school.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

8^TH GRADE

CORE COURSES

8TH GRADE ENGLISH - 0810

In this course, students will further develop their skills as readers and writers. Students explore a variety of literary genres, analyzing characters, themes, and figurative language. This course will foster a love for reading and discussion as students work together to examine selections of short stories, nonfiction, drama, poetry, and novels. As they study these texts, students will practice effective communication in group settings, sharing ideas and perspectives on complex topics. In addition, students will compose effective essays of varying purpose—such as narrative, argumentative, and informative.

8TH GRADE ADVANCED ENGLISH - 0815

Both students and parents must sign an Advanced enrollment slip and meet

proficiency/recommendation criteria. This course is designed to build students’ capacities to be successful in advanced academic courses, particularly, Advanced English I. Students actively learn and develop the critical thinking skills necessary for high school and college-level work while they continue to develop an appreciation for literature through the study of classic and contemporary selections of short stories, nonfiction, drama, poetry, and novels. Emphasis is placed on moving from the literal to the abstract in the students’ critical thinking skills and in the use of the language. Students participate in academic conversations throughout the course. Accompanying the in-depth literature study is a variety of writing endeavors, both analytical and creative. This course is designed to provide rigor so that students become skilled readers of prose, as well as writers who compose for a variety of purposes. This is not a GPA weighted course.

8TH GRADE MATH – 0830

This course is designed to prepare students for Algebra 1. The curriculum will address all required Oklahoma Academic Standards (OAS) for 8^th grade mathematics (Pre-Algebra). The OAS objectives are listed under 4 main standards: Number Operations, Algebraic Reasoning & Algebra, Geometry and Measurement, and Data & Probability. In late spring, all 8^th grade students will participate in the Oklahoma State Testing Pre-Algebra test to determine mastery of objectives. This course is very rigorous, and students must be prepared to complete daily homework assignments.

8TH GRADE ADVANCED ALGEBRA 1 - 0835 

This course is designed for 8th graders who are prepared for Algebra 1 after 7th grade. Students must have maintained an 85% or above in Pre-Algebra. It will cover all the Oklahoma Academic Standards (OAS) for Algebra 1. The OAS objectives are listed under 4 main standards: Numbers & Operations, Algebraic Reasoning & Algebra, Functions, and Data & Probability. In late spring, all 8^th grade students will participate in the Oklahoma State Testing Pre-Algebra test to determine mastery of Pre-Algebra objectives. Because this is a high school level course but the students are not yet 9th graders, they will receive 1 unit of elective credit (not math credit) toward their high school transcript. The pace of the class is very rigorous, so the student must be prepared to complete daily homework assignments. A scientific calculator, such as the TI-30XS, is recommended for home use. This is not a GPA weighted course. 

8^th GRADE US HISTORY - 0820

The focus of the course is from the Albany Plan, the early exploration and colonization of North America, leading to an emphasis on the period of time from the American Revolution through the Civil War and Reconstruction era (1754-1877). The student will describe and analyze the major causes, key events, and important personalities of the American Revolution. They will examine in greater depth the factors, events, documents, significant individuals, and political ideas that led to the formation of the United States of America. These will be pursued through a chronological study of the early national period, westward expansion, and the Civil War and Reconstruction eras. Citizenship skills will focus upon the development and understanding of constitutional government in the United States. The student will continue to gain, develop, and put to use a variety of social studies skills.

8^TH GRADE ADVANCED UNITED STATES HISTORY – 0825

Both students and parents must sign an Advanced enrollment slip and meet proficiency/recommendation criteria. This course begins with the settlement of the continent by Native Americans, but deals primarily with the history of the British North American Colonies, and then the United States from 1754 to the end of Reconstruction in 1877. Students will describe and analyze the major causes, key events, and ideas that drove the American Revolution, the creation of the Constitution and the establishment of major precedents of the American political tradition. Citizenship skills will focus on the principles that underlie our Constitutional republic. We will then examine how the country developed and changed as a result of territorial expansion, the industrial revolution and cultural movements during the Age of Reform. Finally, we will examine how conflicts over slavery led the country to Civil War and the successes and failures of Reconstruction. As participants in an advanced course, students will be expected to complete regular homework reading assignments as well as an independent research project on a topic of their choice. This course will prepare students for future advanced placement coursework by incorporating higher level thinking skills, research, and analysis of U.S. History to 1877.

8^TH GRADE SCIENCE - 0840

Students will improve their scientific literacy and understanding by conducting experiments, analyzing data, and utilizing scientific knowledge to explain natural phenomena. By examining aspects of physics, biology, and earth science students will develop a background of science knowledge and skills to help them succeed in future science courses and understand the world around them. Units taught include: genetics, force and motion, and space. 

ELECTIVE COURSES

ASSISTANT APPLICATIONS (Can only select one)

Assistants are chosen based on behavior, classroom performance, and teacher recommendation.

• GUIDANCE OFFICE ASSISTANT

Students will assist the Guidance Office in daily tasks such as taking notes to students/teachers, answering the phone, filing, etc. If time permits, students are able to work on homework from other classes or read. Guidance office assistants must maintain confidentiality and must be responsible/trustworthy.

• LIBRARY ASSISTANT

Students will assist the librarians by running errands, shelving books, helping their peers, and keeping the library neat and clean. Students will have time to read daily and will be trained in library skills. Library assistants must be responsible and able to work independently.

• MAIN OFFICE ASSISTANT

Students will assist the Main Office staff/Principals in daily tasks such as taking notes to students/teachers, answering the phone, filing, etc. Main office assistants must maintain confidentiality and must be responsible/trustworthy.

FUNDAMENTALS OF TECHNOLOGY - 0861

This course will provide students with the fundamental concepts, principles, and ideas needed to understand how business is operated and managed in a rapidly changing global environment, which is needed for success in business-related careers. This course covers a wide range of skills, from knowledge of the parts of a computer to basic business programs and uses real-world projects to help students master them. This course also provides job readiness skills and soft skills that are critical for success in any workplace setting.

8TH GRADE CHOIR – 0879

SJHS Treble Choir

This performance-based vocal music class is intended for Soprano and Alto singing voices going into 8th or 9th Grade. Students enrolled in this ensemble will continue to advance their singing and performing skills, including proper vocal technique & health, music reading & literacy, and movement & dance. Students will learn to sing with expression and musicianship in a varied repertoire of music, ranging from early Renaissance & Classical to more contemporary styles heard on the radio. Students will also navigate music of different cultures and languages, learning the proper diction and pronunciations. As a performance-based class, this group will require time outside the normal school day for rehearsals, concerts and contests. Singers will also have the opportunity to participate in district, state and regional level honor choirs and solo & ensemble, and Large Group Choir Contests.. Uniform requirements for this class include an informal and formal option. The informal uniform will consist of the purchase of a choir shirt (around $15.00), black bottoms and close-toed shoes. The more formal uniform will consist of dressy all-black attire of the students choosing. We also take a spring trip each year, which will require a fee to go. If there is any financial problem, we will work to make sure each student has what they need to participate. This is a full-year elective and requires successful completion of a performance-based ensemble (choir, band, orchestra or musical theater) as a 7th or 8th grader and an audition.

SJHS Tenor-Bass Choir

This performance-based vocal music class is intended for Tenor, Baritone and Bass singing voices going into 8th or 9th grade. Students enrolled in this ensemble will continue to develop singing and performing skills, including proper vocal technique & health, music reading & literacy, and movement & dance. Students will learn to sing with expression and musicianship in a varied repertoire of music, ranging from early Renaissance & Classical to more contemporary styles heard on the radio. Students will also navigate music of different cultures and languages, learning the proper diction and pronunciations. As a performance-based class, this group will require time outside the normal school day for rehearsals, concerts and contests. Singers will also have the opportunity to participate in district and state level honor choirs and solo & ensemble contests. Uniform requirements for this class include an informal and formal option. The informal uniform will consist of the purchase of a choir shirt (around $15.00), black bottoms and close-toed shoes. The more formal uniform will consist of dressy all-black attire of the students choosing. We also take a spring trip each year, which will require a fee to go. If there is any financial problem, we will work to make sure each student has what they need to participate. This is a full-year elective and requires successful completion of a performance-based ensemble (choir, band, orchestra or musical theater) as a 7th or 8th grader and an audition.

ART – 0873

A yearlong exploratory class designed to help improve students’ basic art skills; drawing, painting, ceramics and sculpting. Students will design artwork using a variety of media (graphite, oil and chalk pastel, ink, watercolor, tempera, acrylic, clay, and others) and techniques, as well as work to develop creativity and self-expression. The art of various cultures will be examined, along with art styles, artists and time periods. Students will learn to recognize and use the art elements (line, shape, color, value, form, texture and space), and design principles (rhythm, balance, proportion, variety, emphasis, harmony and unity). A supply fee of $30 is required for this class.

DRAMA I - 0895

Drama One consists of units of work on skills such as pantomime, movement, voice, and improvisation.  More advanced skills will be explored through units that deal with skills such as script analysis, character development and playwriting. Theatre history units will connect to the skill-based units. All units have an in-class peer review or performance element. Technical theatre units will provide students opportunities to practice script analysis abilities and identify all team members in the production process.

8TH GRADE BAND – 0874

By meeting as a full band every day, 8th grade band students will continue to build their musical abilities as they progress throughout the band program. Students will continue to develop musical skills such as tone quality, precision, phrasing, balance, and expression through participation in rehearsals, solo and ensemble contests, honor band auditions, band contests, and concerts. Enrollment is subject to approval of the director.

8TH GRADE ORCHESTRA - 0876

Students study fundamental scales, rhythms, etudes, solos, and small ensembles to improve their musicianship. This orchestra will compete as a class in various contests and workshops and will end its season with an all-school orchestra program. Development of performance skills, discipline, and musical knowledge will be stressed. Students will be required to provide a uniform for performances.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION - 0893

The goal of physical education at the junior high is to aid in the physical, mental, emotional, and social development of students through a well-balanced program. In order to accomplish this goal, students will actively participate in unit activities, as well as complete unit specific assignments and assessments throughout the course of the year. These activities will be based on state mandated guidelines. Activities include: ultimate frisbee, disc golf, kickball, team handball, football, basketball, baseball, soccer, floor hockey, volleyball, pickleball, physical fitness testing, and assorted one day activities. Students will also participate in a designated workout day once a week that includes: mile run, pacer test, or workout stations.  All units are two to three weeks long unless otherwise stated.

STEM-PLTW 8^th Grade - 0860

The STEM-PLTW program features a project-based curriculum designed to challenge and engage the natural curiosity and imagination of Junior High School students. It is intended and designed to spark an interest in STEM (science, technology, engineering, math) and prepare students for further study in the 9^th grade at the Junior High School and then at the STEM Academy at Meridian Technology Center.

• Magic of Electrons: Students explore the science of electricity, behavior and parts of atoms, and sensing devices. Students acquire knowledge and skills in basic circuitry design and examine the impact of electricity on our lives and students will build electronic circuits using electrical components.

• Automation & Robotics: Students will trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics. Students will build and program robots and learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation and computer control systems.

• Green Architecture: Students will design and build scale models of affordable housing units. They will learn how to apply green concepts to the fields of architecture and construction and explore dimensioning, measuring, and architectural sustainability.

• Science of Speed: Students will explore the Science of Speed including acceleration, Newton’s third law, aerodynamics, friction and calculate speed. Students will implement these concepts and design and build a CO2 powered dragster

• TSA: Students can also join the TSA student organization and compete in the various events offered by the TSA.

There is a supply fee of $25 for this course.

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES BASICS - 0894

FACS Basics curriculum provides students with basic information and skills needed to function within the family and an ever changing, complex society. Students develop competencies in the areas of nutrition and wellness, food science, housing and interior design, early childhood, textiles, interpersonal relationships and career exploration. The student will gain basic life skills that promote a positive influence upon the quality of their life. Leadership opportunities are offered through the student organization, Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

8TH GRADE AGRICULTURE EXPLORATION - 0891

With the motto of “Learning to Do,” this course will focus on hands-on learning to teach students about the agricultural industry. Students will take part in woodworking, bee keeping, plant care, animal husbandry, and other agricultural practices. In addition, all students in this class are members of the National FFA Organization and are encouraged to be involved in these opportunities.

SPANISH I – 5010

Spanish 1 strives to integrate and develop the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages five content areas: communication, cultures, connections, comparisons and communities. Students will be expected to:

1. Understand spoken or written Spanish, in context, given the vocabulary studied in the course.

2. Use vocabulary studied, in context, and in various situations, to describe things and people in their daily life.

3. Form and answer questions, in Spanish, using the vocabulary studied.

4. Readings and videos in both Spanish and English will be used to offer students the opportunity to develop an awareness and understanding of Hispanic culture.
   
   It is imperative for the Spanish 1 student to have strong English skills, including reading comprehension and grammar. Students should achieve a grade of at least 75% C in Spanish 1 to expect to continue successfully through Level 2, or it may be repeated. Successful completion of this year-long course counts as one credit toward the graduation requirement of two consecutive levels (one and two) of the same foreign language, for both eighth and ninth graders. The grade earned counts toward the GPA for both eighth and ninth graders.

MATH SKILLS- 0833

This is an elective course that provides remediation and extra time to learn and practice arithmetic and foundational key concepts in mathematics. This course also supplements essential standards-based skills learned in Pre-Algebra. Class sizes are typically smaller in order to provide greater collaboration between each student and the teacher. This course is suggested for 8th grade students who may need additional support in math. SJHS staff may place students who need math support in this class. Math Skills can be taken quarterly, by semester, or for a full year.

READING SKILLS- 0813

This is an elective course that provides remediation and extra support for students who need to improve their reading skills and comprehension. The course will focus on teaching phonics, vocabulary, context clues, comprehension strategies, reading to learn content, and more. This course is suggested for 8th grade students who need additional support in reading. SJHS staff may place students who need reading support in this class. Reading Skills can be taken quarterly, by semester, or for a full year.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Special education programs are provided for eligible students.

STILLWATER JUNIOR HIGH SCHOOL

9th Grade

COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE

2024-2025

STILLWATER  JUNIOR  HIGH  SCHOOL

2024-2025

CURRICULUM  

GUIDE

ADMINISTRATIVE  DIRECTORY

TELEPHONE     533-6420

CRYSTAL SZYMANSKI- PRINCIPAL

KANE MACH- ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

ADAM ELGHADI- ASSISTANT PRINCIPAL

COUNSELORS

TELEPHONE   533-6422

SUZANNE BIRDWELL

SUSAN BRIEN

ANDREA LYON

ACCREDITED BY

OKLAHOMA  STATE  DEPARTMENT  OF  EDUCATION

STILLWATER JUNIOR HIGH REQUIREMENTS

Students in the ninth grade are required to enroll in six units of work.  Ninth graders enroll in four required courses: English, Oklahoma history / government, mathematics, and physical science. Students choose two, year long, electives.

OKLAHOMA COLLEGE PREPARATORY CURRICULUM

TWENTY SIX UNITS OF CREDIT ARE REQUIRED TO GRADUATE FROM STILLWATER HIGH

SCHOOL

4  UNITS  OF  ENGLISH 3  UNITS  OF  SCIENCE

3  UNITS  OF  MATHEMATICS

1  UNIT  OF  AMERICAN  HISTORY

1. UNIT  OF  WORLD  HISTORY

½ UNIT  OF  OKLAHOMA  HISTORY

½  TO 1  UNIT OF AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

½  TO 2  UNITS  OF  FINE ARTS

2. UNITS OF FOREIGN LANGUAGE OR COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY

1  ADDITIONAL UNIT OF ANY OF THE ABOVE LISTED COURSES

THE  REMAINING  UNITS  TO  TOTAL  26  SHALL  BE  ELECTIVES.

OKLAHOMA’S PROMISE

The Oklahoma’s Promise is a program intended to provide college tuition fees for students from families with limited incomes.  Students must also meet certain academic requirements. Applications must be submitted in 8^th, 9^th, 10^th or 11^th grade. Applications are available at www.okpromise.org or from your counselor.

COLLEGE  ENTRANCE  REQUIREMENTS

TO ENTER ALL OKLAHOMA COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES , A STUDENT MUST COMPLETE THE FOLLOWING HIGH SCHOOL REQUIREMENTS:

ENGLISH 4 UNITS

MATH 3 UNITS  (*MINIMUM - ALGEBRA I, GEOMETRY,

ALGEBRA II)

LAB SCIENCE 3 UNITS

HISTORY 2 UNITS  (INCLUDING 1 COURSE IN AMERICAN

HISTORY)

CITIZENSHIP SKILLS 1 UNIT     (ECONOMICS, GEOGRAPHY, GOVERNMENT OR  NON-WESTERN CULTURE) (WORLD

HISTORY  WILL  SATISFY  NON-WESTERN

CULTURE  OPTION)

OTHER 3 UNITS  (ADDITIONAL ENGLISH, MATH, SCIENCE,

HISTORY, OR CITIZENSHIP SKILLS

COURSES OR COMPUTER SCIENCE OR

FOREIGN LANGUAGE COURSES)

These course requirements have to be met in order for any student to enter any junior college, regional college, or university in Oklahoma.  These same curriculum requirements must be met in order to enter the Oklahoma Technical  Institutes in Oklahoma City and in Okmulgee.

Universities and colleges in other states have different entrance requirements.  Some require more math and science and as many as 3-4 units of foreign language.

ICAP

OK CAREER GUIDE

WHAT IS AN INDIVIDUAL CAREER ACADEMIC PLAN (ICAP)?

An ICAP is a multi-year process that guides students as they explore career, academic and postsecondary opportunities. Family, student and educators collaborate to develop the ICAP, which equips students with the awareness, knowledge and skills to create their own meaningful exploration of college and career opportunities. The ICAP is an evolving document that reflects students’ changing passions, aptitudes, interests and growth.

WHY IS AN INDIVIDUAL CAREER ACADEMIC PLAN (ICAP) VALUABLE?

Life beyond high school requires different competencies than in the past, and are ever-changing. By 2025, three of four Oklahoma jobs will require education or training beyond high school. When students complete an ICAP, they discover which pathways fit their talents and what kind of academic preparation and experiences will prepare them for in-demand careers, some of which may not even exist when they graduate from high school.

COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

9TH GRADE

All 9^th grade courses provide .5 unit of high school credit upon earning a passing grade at the end of each semester.

CORE COURSES

ENGLISH I - 1010

This course has two major components: literature and composition. Within literature, students

read a variety of texts, which include short stories, nonfiction texts, a drama, an epic poem, and

a novel. Throughout the literature portion of the curriculum, there is an emphasis on literary

elements, figurative language, and academic and domain specific vocabulary. In the composition/grammar unit, the focus is on argumentative and research writing, grammatical concepts such as phrases, clauses, verbals, and parallelism. Throughout the course, the students will improve their speaking and listening skills with the use of individual and group presentations and projects.

ADVANCED ENGLISH I - 1015

This course is designed to equip students with strategies and skills to prepare them for Advanced English II while also laying the foundation for AP language. Curriculum of the course includes several different genres such as, nonfiction, drama, novels, short stories, and epic poetry. The course focuses on identifying what elements the author uses to convey the larger meaning of the text. Accompanying the in-depth literature study is an array of writing styles. Students will hone their writing skills with literary analysis, argument, synthesis, and creative writing. Along with writing, students will continue to develop their rhetorical skills through individual speeches and presentations. Students and parents must sign an advanced enrollment slip and meet proficiency and recommendation criteria.This is not a GPA weighted course.

ALGEBRA I - 3010

The course will cover all the Oklahoma Academic Standards for Algebra 1. The OAS objectives are listed under 4 main standards: Numbers & Operations, Algebraic Reasoning & Algebra, and Data & Probability. The course counts as a math credit for High School Graduation. A TI-NSpire graphing calculator will be a part of the class and will be available in the classroom only. The pace of the class is very rigorous, so the student must be prepared to complete daily homework assignments.  A scientific calculator is recommended.

GEOMETRY - 3040

Prerequisite: ALGEBRA I (GRADE AVG:  A OR B IS RECOMMENDED)

This course is designed for those students who have successfully completed Algebra 1 earning a grade of 75 percent or above. It will cover the Oklahoma Pass Objectives for Geometry. The OBS objectives are listed under 5 main categories: Reasoning & Logic, Geometry: Two-Dimension Shapes, Geometry: Three-Dimension Shapes, Geometry: Circles, Geometry: Right Triangle Trigonometry. The curriculum will show the interrelationship between Algebra 1 and many geometric concepts as well as develop the skills of writing geometric proofs. This course counts as a math credit towards high school graduation. A TI-Nspire graphing calculator will be used as an integral part of the class and will be available in the classroom only. The pace of the class is very rigorous, so the student must be prepared to complete daily homework assignments. A scientific calculator is recommended.

US GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS - 2020

Government is the study of the basic functioning of the American government. This course will include the history, structure, and running of government. It also focuses on individual rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens. The U.S. Constitution will be used to show the structure and laws of the American government.

OKLAHOMA HISTORY - 2010

Oklahoma history is the study of Oklahoma’s rich heritage both before and after statehood. Our natural resources, geography, economy, current events, and especially the men and women who have contributed to our state’s development are emphasized throughout this course.

ADVANCED US GOVERNMENT  - 2025

Both students and parents must sign an Advanced enrollment slip and meet

proficiency/recommendation criteria. Government is the study of the basic functioning of the American government. This course will include the history, structure, and running of government. It also focuses on individual rights and responsibilities of U.S. citizens. The U.S. constitution will be used to show the structure and laws of the American government. This course will prepare students for future advanced placement coursework by incorporating higher level thinking skills, research skills, and analysis of our government. This is not a GPA weighted course.

ADVANCED OKLAHOMA HISTORY – 2015

Both students and parents must sign an Advanced enrollment slip and meet proficiency/recommendation criteria. This course is the study of Oklahoma’s rich heritage both before and after statehood. Our natural resources, geography, economy, current events, and especially the men and women who have contributed to our state’s development are emphasized throughout this course. Students will study our state’s economic, political and social development prior to and since statehood. This course will prepare students for future advanced placement coursework by incorporating research and analysis of the history of our state. This is not a GPA weighted course.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE - 4010

This course involves the study of the basic principles of physics and chemistry. The use of laboratory experiences, mathematical problem-solving, and engineering projects are incorporated to teach the principles and interactions of matter and energy. It serves as a prerequisite for high school chemistry and physics and counts as a lab science for college entrance requirements. Passing this course is required for High School graduation.

ADVANCED PHYSICAL SCIENCE - 4015

Students must have a permission slip signed by their parents or guardians and meet proficiency requirements. This is a fast-paced, rigorous physics/chemistry course for the highly motivated student. It is intended to prepare the student for AP physics and AP chemistry courses at the high school level. The student should be prepared for content requiring abstract thinking and above-average study skills. This course includes the use of laboratory experiences, mathematical problem-solving, and engineering projects to teach the fundamentals of matter and energy. It also serves as a lab science for college entrance requirements. This is not a GPA weighted course. Passing this course is required for High School graduation.

ELECTIVE COURSES

PEER ADVOCATE – 9046

Peer Partners is an opportunity to interact and build friendships with exceptional students at Stillwater Junior High. Peer Partners will assist students with classroom work, activities, field trips, and Special Olympics events.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION – 8001

Students cannot take both Physical Education & Athletics.

The goal of physical education at the junior high is to aid in the physical, mental, emotional, and social development of students through a well-balanced program. In order to accomplish this goal, students will actively participate in unit activities, as well as complete unit specific assignments and assessments throughout the course of the year. These activities will be based on state mandated guidelines. Activities include: ultimate frisbee, disc golf, kickball, team handball, football, basketball, baseball, soccer, floor hockey, volleyball, pickleball, physical fitness testing, and assorted one day activities. Students will also participate in a designated workout day once a week that includes: mile run, pacer test, or workout stations. All units are two to three weeks long unless otherwise stated.

ATHLETICS – 8000

This elective is for all 9th grade students interested in competing in the following 9th grade athletic programs: Fall (cross country, volleyball, football, softball), Winter (girls basketball, boys basketball, swimming, wrestling) and Spring (baseball, golf, soccer, tennis and track & field) sports and off-season programs. Students will be enrolled in their designated sport(s) and will travel to practice during 6th hour. During their off-season, students involved in sports that do not offer an off-season program will remain enrolled in Athletics and will stay at SJHS during 6th hour.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

SPANISH I - 5010

Spanish 1 strives to integrate and develop the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages five content areas: communication, cultures, connections, comparisons and communities. Students will be expected to:

1. Understand spoken or written Spanish, in context, given the vocabulary studied in the course.

2. Use vocabulary studied, in context, and in various situations, to describe things and people in their daily life.

3. Form and answer questions, in Spanish, using the vocabulary studied.

4. Readings and videos in both Spanish and English will be used to offer students the opportunity to develop an awareness and understanding of Hispanic culture.
   
   It is imperative for the Spanish 1 student to have strong English skills, including reading comprehension and grammar. Students should achieve a grade of at least 75% C in Spanish 1 to expect to continue successfully through Level 2, or it may be repeated. Successful completion of this year-long course counts as one credit toward the graduation requirement of two consecutive levels (one and two) of the same foreign language, for both eighth and ninth graders. The grade earned counts toward the GPA for both eighth and ninth graders.

SPANISH II – 5020

A student may enroll in Spanish 2 if they pass Level 1 with at least 60%, though a 75% or better is recommended.

Spanish 2 strives to integrate and develop the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages’ five content areas: communication, cultures, connections, comparisons and communities. We work to help students move from Novice, into Intermediate level language skills.
Students will be expected to:

1. Understand spoken or written Spanish in context, given the vocabulary studied in the course.

2. Communicate by writing or speaking about different events or topics of daily life in the past as well as the present tense, as needed.

3. Be able to ask and answer questions for information, to request that someone else do something, and make comparisons within the topics studied.

4. Expand awareness and understanding of Hispanic culture. Readings and videos in Spanish will be used.

Successful completion of Spanish 2 fulfills the graduation requirements of two consecutive levels of a foreign language.

CAREER AND TECHNOLOGY

FUNDAMENTALS OF TECHNOLOGY - 6000 This course will provide students with the fundamental concepts, principles, and ideas needed to understand how business is operated and managed in a rapidly changing global environment, which is needed for success in business-related careers. This course also provides job readiness skills and soft skills that are critical for success in any workplace setting.

DESKTOP PUBLISHING (YEARBOOK) – 6001

Students will acquire skills in visual design with the primary emphasis of this course being desktop publishing and working with graphics. Students will learn basic photography and reporting skills as they create the annual yearbook.  Students will also use interviewing and video-editing skills to create the biweekly news show 'Neer News. Prerequisite: Fundamentals of Technology.

COMPUTER SCIENCE ESSENTIALS (STEM)– 6002

Computer Science Essentials (CSE) is designed to be a full-year course (180 day) implemented in the 9^th grade. This course is an excellent entry point for new high school computer science (CS) learners. And students who have prior CS experiences will find ample opportunity to expand upon those experiences in this course. All students who take CSE will have many opportunities for creative expression and exploration in topics of personal interest, whether it be through app development or connecting computing with the physical world.

PLTW CSE introduces students to coding fundamentals through an approachable, block-based programming language where they will have early success in creating usable apps. As students sharpen their computational thinking skills, they will transition to programming environments that reinforce coding fundamentals by displaying block programming and text-based programming side-by-side. Finally, students will learn the power of text-based programming as they are introduced to the Python programming language.

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES BASICS - 9001

FACS Basics curriculum provides students with basic information and skills needed to function within the family and an ever changing, complex society. Students develop competencies in the areas of nutrition and wellness, food science, housing and interior design, early childhood, textiles, interpersonal relationships and career exploration. The student will gain basic life skills that promote a positive influence upon the quality of their life. Leadership opportunities are offered through the student organization, Family, Careers and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA).

INTRODUCTION TO AGRI-SCIENCE - 9020

Designed to teach students more about where their food comes from, students will take part in hands-on learning through livestock, plant, and fruit production. Students will travel to the school farm for classes that center around learning by doing. In addition, students will take part in metal working, public speaking, and greenhouse management. Finally, all students in this course will automatically be members of the National FFA Organization.

AVIATION I - AV90

The ninth-grade Aviation 1 course provides the foundation for advanced exploration in flying, aerospace engineering, and unmanned aircraft systems. Students will learn about engineering practices, problem-solving, and the innovations and technological developments that have made today's aviation and aerospace industries possible. 

Students will look at the problem-solving practices and innovative leaps that transformed space exploration from the unimaginable to the common in a single generation. Students will also gain a historical perspective, from the earliest flying  machines to various modern aircraft.

FINE ARTS

9^TH GRADE  CHOIR – 7074

SJHS Treble Choir

This performance-based vocal music class is intended for Soprano and Alto singing voices going into 8th or 9th Grade. Students enrolled in this ensemble will continue to advance their singing and performing skills, including proper vocal technique & health, music reading & literacy, and movement & dance. Students will learn to sing with expression and musicianship in a varied repertoire of music, ranging from early Renaissance & Classical to more contemporary styles heard on the radio. Students will also navigate music of different cultures and languages, learning the proper diction and pronunciations. As a performance-based class, this group will require time outside the normal school day for rehearsals, concerts and contests. Singers will also have the opportunity to participate in district, state and regional level honor choirs and solo & ensemble, and Large Group Choir Contests.. Uniform requirements for this class include an informal and formal option. The informal uniform will consist of the purchase of a choir shirt (around $15.00), black bottoms and close-toed shoes. The more formal uniform will consist of dressy all-black attire of the students choosing. We also take a spring trip each year, which will require a fee to go. If there is any financial problem, we will work to make sure each student has what they need to participate. This is a full-year elective and requires successful completion of a performance-based ensemble (choir, band, orchestra or musical theater) as a 7th or 8th grader and an audition.

SJHS Tenor-Bass Choir

This performance-based vocal music class is intended for Tenor, Baritone and Bass singing voices going into 8th or 9th grade. Students enrolled in this ensemble will continue to develop singing and performing skills, including proper vocal technique & health, music reading & literacy, and movement & dance. Students will learn to sing with expression and musicianship in a varied repertoire of music, ranging from early Renaissance & Classical to more contemporary styles heard on the radio. Students will also navigate music of different cultures and languages, learning the proper diction and pronunciations. As a performance-based class, this group will require time outside the normal school day for rehearsals, concerts and contests. Singers will also have the opportunity to participate in district and state level honor choirs and solo & ensemble contests. Uniform requirements for this class include an informal and formal option. The informal uniform will consist of the purchase of a choir shirt (around $15.00), black bottoms and close-toed shoes. The more formal uniform will consist of dressy all-black attire of the students choosing. We also take a spring trip each year, which will require a fee to go. If there is any financial problem, we will work to make sure each student has what they need to participate. This is a full-year elective and requires successful completion of a performance-based ensemble (choir, band, orchestra or musical theater) as a 7th or 8th grader and an audition.

DRAMA II- 7080

The Drama II curriculum is performance-based. The goal of each unit is to expand and deepen the students’ skills as an artist and understanding of the creative process. Drama II will build on material covered in the Drama I curriculum, with units in Character Analysis, Monologue Analysis and Writing, Ensemble Performance, Audition Prep, Technical Theatre and Design. The curriculum will involve performance in scripted and devised works. Students will be expected to participate as a performer or production team member in 1 parent performance event each semester.  This course will meet the fine arts requirement for high school graduation.

ART 1 - 7010

Art 1 is designed for both students who have taken art classes in the past and for students with no previous art experience. Students will develop their creativity, observation and technical skills, and the ability to express themselves through a variety of projects. A wide variety of art media will be introduced including: drawing media (graphite, oil and chalk pastel, ink), watercolor, tempera, acrylic, clay, and others. Students will also learn about the larger world of art through art history and art appreciation activities. A supply fee of $30 is required for this class.

ADVANCED ART 1 – 7015

Students must have a permission slip signed by their parents or guardians and a teacher signature is also required. If the student did not take 8^th grade Art, a portfolio of the student’s work must be provided upon entry. This course is designed for the serious art student who has the interest in improving his/her art skills as well as learning about the larger world of art. Students should also have the motivation and self-discipline required to design and complete projects (including working outside of class time). Advanced art students will be encouraged to work independently to investigate, research, and explore ideas in order to promote their own personal expression at a more rigorous pace. Students will also use a variety of 2D, 3D media, and techniques; study components of art history; develop critical thinking skills; and engage in creative problem solving. Students will be expected to participate in group discussions about art work and participate in group critiques in which they discuss their own work and receive feedback from their peers. Learning to pace oneself, keep up with deadlines, and maintain quality work will be essential in this class. A supply fee of $30 is required for this class.

HIGH SCHOOL BAND (GRADES 9-12) – 7060

Ninth grade band students are enrolled in the Stillwater High School "Pioneer" Band. The High School marching band is active during the first nine week period of the school year. The band attends pioneer football games, and enters selected marching contests and parades. The concert band is active during the second nine week period and the second semester. Emphasis is placed on advanced instrumental skills. Students are encouraged to participate in honor band auditions and solo/ensemble contests.  Enrollment is subject to approval of the director.

9TH GRADE ORCHESTRA – 7061

Students will study advanced rhythms, scales, etudes, solos, and small ensembles to improve their musicianship. Membership in this organization is by permission of the instructor or successful completion of a previous orchestra class. This is the main performing orchestra of SJHS and competes in various contests, workshops, and school functions. Experience in this group prepares the students for participation in the high school symphony orchestra.

SPECIAL EDUCATION

Special education programs are offered to eligible students.