Middle School electives are annual electives only. All students will select 3 electives and 5 alternates in the event of scheduling conflicts for a total of 8 selections, ranking from 1 to 8. Select N/A for all remaining electives.
American Sign Language Ministry (6th – 8th): This class will introduce students to basic American Sign Language for the purpose of ministering in song, poetry, and scripture to enhance worship experiences during chapel and various events.
Art 1 (6th – 8th): This course is designed to show students an appreciation for God and His design. Students will be introduced to a variety of Art fundamentals focusing on drawing and painting. They will be introduced to a variety of mediums while studying the uses of color as well as black and white. The curriculum for this course varies each year to accommodate different degrees of student ability.
Art 2 (7th – 8th): This course is an advanced Art study for students who want to continue to grow as artists. Students will focus on creating show projects that challenge their current abilities. Many mediums will be repeated in order for students to work toward mastery. Art History is added to the curriculum so that students have an opportunity to study great artists and learn from their Art. (Prerequisite Art 1)
Art 3 (8th ONLY): This course will provide students with an opportunity to build on skills learned in Art 1 and 2. Students will be working on specialization within their skill set. Projects will be designed to build mastery in technique, composition/design, experimentation, and creative thinking. Students will be expected to work on projects independently from others and develop their own unique styles. (Prerequisite Art 2)
Band & Orchestra (6th – 8th): This course is designed for students that are interested in learning how to play a woodwind, brass, percussion, or a string instrument of their choice. Students will be taught the basic fundamentals of music. Students will perform at various programs including concerts and chapels. Students are required to participate in all events. (Additional fees will be charged for competitions/attire during the school year.)
Choir (6th – 8th): This course is designed to teach students to sing well as a group and to develop their vocal skills. Students will learn proper breathing techniques, intonation, rhythm, and balance. The course will expose students to music as a medium of praise and adoration as well as cultural enrichment. Students may have the opportunity to perform in various competitions as well as several concerts. Concert attendance is mandatory. (Additional fees will be charged for competitions/attire during the school year.)
Foundations of Technology (8th ONLY): Within this course, students will learn Microsoft Office (GCFLearnfree.org) as well as develop proper keyboarding technique. They will also be introduced to the foundational concepts of computer science and coding, challenging them to explore how computing and technology impact the world. (High School Credit Course)
French 1 (8th ONLY): This course is structured to provide students with the opportunity to learn vocabulary, basic grammar, and cultural aspects of different countries where French is the primary language. Students will be reading, speaking, and writing in French. (High School Credit Course)
Introduction to Coding (6th or 7th): This course takes a wide lens on computer science by covering topics such as problem-solving, programming, physical computing, user-centered design, and data, while inspiring students as they build their own websites, apps, games, and physical computing devices. This course may only be taken once.
Introduction to Spanish/French (6th or 7th): This is an introductory course designed to take a creative approach with a variety of activities and projects learning the French and Spanish languages and exploring the different traditions and cultures around the world where French and Spanish are the primary languages. This course may only be taken once.
Physical Education (6th – 8th): This course emphasizes fitness, coordination, and sportsmanship through students’ participation in team and individual sports. The program varies from year to year. Health issues will be discussed on a regular basis in the classroom as well.
Piano Lab/Music Technology (6th – 8th): This course is designed to teach the concepts and fundamentals necessary to play the piano. While performing on the piano is the primary goal of this class, the basics of music theory, such as notation, rhythm, melody, and harmony, will also be learned. Students will develop the self-discipline needed for good practice habits as they prepare for class performances.
Spanish 1 (8th ONLY): This course is structured to provide students with the opportunity to learn vocabulary, basic grammar skills, and cultural aspects of different countries in Latin America and in Spain. Students will be listening, speaking, reading, and writing in Spanish. A student must have a C- (70%) average over two semesters to move to Spanish 2. (High School Credit Course)
STEM (6th – 8th): This course is designed to introduce students to core concepts essential to science, technology, engineering, and mathematics in which construction sets, activity packs and add-on sets illustrate fundamental principles of simple machines and mechanisms.
