Middle School Electives

Middle School ArtStart
This course offers the Middle School student an opportunity to explore various art media including, but not limited to, drawing, printmaking, sculpture, painting, and paper making. Students learn about artists and cultural systems that use art forms for communication of ideas or decoration. They will then create a work of their own, learning the mechanics of art materials.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Beginning Middle School Band
First Semester Only: Students without any previous band experience may register for beginning band to learn to play a wind or percussion instrument.  Students will learn the basics of playing an instrument and learn to play in an ensemble.  Students wishing to continue with band will have an opportunity to move into Intermediate Band second semester.
Grade Levels: 7, 8 

Intermediate Middle School Band
Middle School Band at Saint Thomas Academy is open to any student with at least one year of experience playing a wind or percussion instrument.  The band rehearses 2-3 times per week in preparation for concerts and other school and community functions.  Band is a great way to become more proficient on a musical instrument and to enjoy the participation and teamwork of ensemble playing.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Middle School Choir
Middle School Choir is open to all Middle School students who have a desire to learn the basics of choral music.  Choir members take instruction  2-3 times a week at Visitation School in preparation for performing at concerts and school and community events.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Middle School Computer Graphics
This course is an introduction to the computer as a graphic arts tool. The students learn the basics of painting, drawing, and writing programs on the computer. Work will continue with digital images in Photo Deluxe, scanning and ending with a student-created PowerPoint presentation for the class. Assignments are given to encourage the students to explore the creative potential of the computer.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Middle School Music Appreciation
Second Semester Only: Students will sample music from a variety of cultures and historical backgrounds.  Main units will include Classical Composers, Jazz, and World Music.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Middle School English Strategies
Second Semester Only: Students will participate in many word and phrase games as a means toward developing spelling and vocabulary skills.  Games will include: Scrabble, Upwords, Hangman, and Boggle.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Middle School Creative Writing
In this course students learn the basics of creative writing.  Topics include poetry, short stories, plays, and personal narratives.  Students will also produce a Middle School paper in this elective.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Middle School Debate & Quiz Bowl
Debate and Quiz Bowl is a semester-long elective class offered on alternate days.  Half of the class focuses on debate -- the basics of competitive debate are introduced and students will practice using current national debate topics and other topics of their own choice.  The other half of the class focuses on Quiz Bowl and Knowledge Bowl.  Students learn the rules of both competition formats, form teams, and compete in matches.  Optional opportunities for competition against other schools will be offered as well.
Grade Levels: 7, 8 

Middle School Math Olympiad
Math Olympiad is based on mathematical skills learned in the middle school.  Activities include different types of card games, cribbage, games with counting and line design, with a final sewing project.  Students use logic in solving both written and manipulative puzzles.  This elective provides fun ways to apply new and challenging skills.
Grade Levels: 7, 8

Middle School Reading Basis
First Semester Only: Middle School Reading Basics Skills helps students develop their reading skills.  Topics include SQ3R, speed reading, and improved comprehension.  Students will also participate in sustained silent reading (SSR).
Grade Levels: 7, 8