This spring (2002), all Goddard students in the sixth and seventh grades will use this booklet to plan their academic involvement at Robert Goddard Middle School and Eisenhower Middle School next year. It is extremely important that parents and school work together as partners in the education of your student. Your involvement and support is essential to the student’s success. Our student population is increasing rapidly and our commitment to offer the best possible education to our children remains our driving force at both middle schools.

The curriculum is based on strengthening " the basics ", while exposing our students to a wide variety of elective fields. All of our students will be enrolled in one semester of Technology Education in seventh and one semester in the eighth grade. All of our students will also have a semester of Reading and a semester of PE in both grades. Our students will be able to choose:

Please review carefully the class descriptions in this booklet. We encourage you to discuss them with your student. Select your "electives" carefully. We will try to accommodate your choices of electives. If we can be of any help, please feel free to contact us at 794-4230. (See page 5 for other ways of communicating with us.)

Yours in Education,

Lazaro San Martin and Lisa Tyler
Counselors

1. They set goals
2. They plan their time
3. They study every day
4. They take notes in class
5. They have the tools they need
6. They keep their commitments
7. They get ready ahead of time

1. Have a regular place to study. A place free of noise and distractions. Do not take calls while doing your homework.
2. Maintain a daily study routine with time planned in advance.
3. Use the Agenda Book daily.
4. Include "Review Periods" in your study plan.
5. Take advantage of study time during the day. Avoid doing all study late at night.
6. Create a system of organization. Have pencils, books, paper, etc. before you begin.
7. Make sure you understand the assignment before you begin. Clarify them with your teacher or with classmates that consistently seem to know what is going on in the class.
8. Keep your parents informed as to what is going on in your classes. Share concerns as well as good happenings.

1. Have a large notebook with plenty of paper. Divide it into sections, by courses.
2. Take down the main ideas and key facts from the class discussion. Avoid trying to write down every word the teacher says. Learn to outline. Star ideas and thoughts pointed out as important. Ask a teacher for help in learning this skill.
3. Go over each set of class notes as soon after class as possible. Check to make sure you understand what the teacher was saying.
4. Concentrate and focus during the entire presentation or class discussion.

1. Keep your mind actively on the subject.
2. Participate actively in class discussions. Volunteer without being called on.
3. Try to clarify difficult points. Ask questions, ask questions, ask questions if not clear.
4. Record assignments in your Agenda Books.
5. Go to the teacher for help if you feel you do not understand. Make arrangements to see your teachers or team of teachers before or after school. Teachers are willing to help, but they need to know what you need.

Mission:  To assist all students in gaining knowledge, skills and competencies necessary to function successfully in a complex, multicultural society.

The Counselors are available to students, parents, and staff. Counseling services can be accessed by visiting the Counselor’s Office in the buildings, or contacting the counselors by telephone or E-mail. Feel free to leave a message in the voice mail. We will get back to you as soon as possible. 794-4230

E-mail addresses: lsanmartin@goddardusd.com or ltyler@goddardusd.com

Any issues regarding student health will be handled through nurses’ offices.

In order to provide continuity among classes and buildings within the district, the following grading system is being used in all Goddard schools.
 

PROCEDURE

1. A retention team will be formed. (Reps. from home and school)
2. Team considers: grades, age, previous retentions, parents and teachers’ recommendations, standardized test results and Light Scale results.
3. Team will make a recommendation to retain or not. Parents are involved in the decision.

 

 
 
 
 
 

POSSIBLE DECISIONS

4. Student may be retained at the same grade level for the coming school year.
5. Student may be "placed" at the next grade level instead of being "promoted".
6. A "placed" student must agree to certain specific conditions in the form of a written contract between parents, student, and school. A copy of the contract will be kept in the student’s record folder.

 

 
 
 
 
 

POSSIBLE CONTRACTUAL CONDITIONS

7. Successfully attend a Summer School program.
8. Go through the Pre-Assessment process.
9. Repetition of certain courses.
10. Be placed under the tutelage of an adult Academic Advisor.
11. Be placed in the 3 strikes system.
12. Other conditions.
13. A combination of one or more of the above.

Applications must be approved by the appropriate teacher and returned to Mrs. Gerken in the Counselor’s Office by Wednesday, November 28, 2001.

ENGLISH 7

Students begin the year reviewing six-trait writing. Throughout the year, students learn grammar skills with emphasis on parts of speech, capitalization and punctuation, spelling, vocabulary, and usage. Students practice the writing process the entire year as they write numerous types of paragraphs. Assessment is done using the Six Trait writing process. Additional studies focus on literature--novel, drama, myths/folktales, short story, poetry, and nonfiction. Basic literature terms are learned and used. The classes integrate curriculum with the other academic disciplines whenever possible.

LAB SCIENCE 7

The seventh grade Science curriculum will include, but is not limited to the following units: Characteristics of living things, Matter, Structure of Matter, and Cells. The course is primarily lecture based with a strong emphasis placed on individual and group lab experiences as support material for the main concepts. Students will be expected to take notes, discuss topics, answer questions, make observation and draw conclusions through scientific inquiry and discovery. Problem Solving using the Scientific Method will be taught and used.

SOCIAL STUDIES 7

This course teaches students about the world in which they live. Major world regions are emphasized. Students learn of political, economic, and social developments in each of these major world regions. Current news events are covered throughout the course. Students also learn beginning concepts about American Government.

MATH 7 OR ADVANCED MATH 7

Math 7 students work with the four basic operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division as they relate to whole numbers, decimals, fractions, and integers. The class also covers other concepts, such as ratio and proportion, averages, percentages, statistics, equations, Geometry, probability, and graphing in the coordinate plane. Problem Solving will also be emphasized throughout the year
Advanced Math 7 is designed to prepare the students to take Algebra I in the 8^th grade. The students will cover the 7^th grade curriculum with additional work in areas such as exponents, graphing and solving algebraic equations. Problem solving will be emphasized. Standardized test scores and teacher recommendations will be taken into consideration for participation in this class.

ENGLISH 8

This course is designed to strengthen skills. Four areas are emphasized: writing, grammar, vocabulary, and literature. Within writing, the focus is on the Six Trait writing model and the various types of writing (i.e. narrative, persuasive, expository, etc.). Literature units include selections from poetry, drama, nonfiction, short stories, and the novel. Basic literary terms are used. Grammar is incorporated into both writing and literature. Emphasis is on fundamentals, such as capitalization, punctuation, spelling, parts of speech, sentence structure, and usage.

LAB SCIENCE 8

Students will explore the following topics: Astronomy, Earth Science, Human Biology, Human Health, and Chemistry of Matter and Heredity. A strong emphasis is placed on individual and group lab experiences as support material for the main concepts. Students will be expected to perform the following: take notes, discuss topics, interact, make observations and draw conclusions through scientific inquiry and discovery. Basic techniques used in lab will be learned and practiced. Problem Solving using the Scientific Method will be taught and practiced.

SOCIAL STUDIES 8

This course covers American History from the Pre-Columbian civilization through the Civil War. During the year, the students will practice the following skills: reading, writing, note taking, active interaction with peers and teacher, Geography and map research, memorization and test taking. This course is designed to compliment the High School course which covers American History from Post Civil War to the present. Nine weeks of the course will be devoted to elements of Kansas History.

MATH 8 or ALGEBRA I

Math 8 students will be taught concepts of measurement, geometry, proportions, percentage, probability, statistics, integers and real numbers as well as graphing equations and inequalities. Problem solving will be emphasized. The class will prepare the student to take Algebra I the following year.34

Algebra I students will be taught operations and polynomials, solving equations, factoring, inequalities, linear systems, and quadratic functions. This is a high school level course. Students must maintain a B average the first quarter.

In addition to integrating technology across the whole curriculum, we are committed to addressing the need of technology instruction. All students will receive a semester of technology instruction per year.

TECHNOLOGY 7
This is a required class for all seventh graders. It is a one-semester class. The class will be scheduled for either first or second semester. A Macintosh format will be used. Students will continue practicing proper skills for keyboarding. They will work with a word processor, database and spreadsheet. They will continue with their work with multimedia presentation expanding their knowledge of various media such as the scanner and video equipment as well as exploring the Internet.

TECHNOLOGY 8
This is a required class for all eighth graders. It is a one-semester class. The class will be scheduled for either first or second semester. Students will work cooperatively in pairs as they rotate through modules in the Technology lab. The modules are curriculum based and student centered. Included in the modules experience are the areas of Technology, Science, Family and Consumer Science and Mathematics. This will be a "hands on" experience for all of the eighth graders.

Reading is a life long skill. The more we practice and improve, the higher we will achieve in all subject areas in the performance assessments as well as in the world of work when we reach adulthood. The staff is committed to making every possible effort to help each one of our students succeed in Reading. Improving Reading is one component of our School Improvement Plan. Every student will participate in one semester of Reading per year.

READING (Required) 7^th and 8^th Grade (1 semester)

The classes are designed to strengthen and improve vocabulary and comprehension skills. The courses will encourage individualized, independent reading through the use of Accelerated Reader in conjunction with Star. In addition, students will experience instructional reading primarily with the use of novels. Recreational reading will be incorporated through silent reading. Students will be exposed to a variety of reading materials, including technical, narrative, expository and persuasive. Other skills practiced include study skills, writing, and problem solving.

GIRLS PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Students will be required to have a uniform consisting of solid gray, white or blue T-shirt and shorts. Sweatshirts and sweatpants are also required for outside activities in cooler weather. White footed socks and gym shoes with non-marking soles are required. The students begin the semester with physical fitness testing to determine their level of fitness. They are tested again at the end of the semester to monitor fitness improvement. Various activities are covered including a Frisbee unit, fitness games, tennis, aerobics, dance, tae-bo, pickleball, badminton, basketball, softball, soccer, and football. The curriculum is designed to provide adolescents with the knowledge of skills to enjoy a physically active, healthy lifestyle.

BOYS PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Students will be required to have a uniform consisting of either an all white T-shirt, a Goddard athletic shirt (one that is not the shirt being worn during the present athletic season), or a Goddard PE T-shirt. The shorts must be royal or dark blue. White socks and non-marking gym shoes are required. Sweatshirts and sweatpants are also required for outside activities in cooler weather. These can be any color. The students will be introduced to a stretching and conditioning routine that stresses flexibility and development, as well as aerobic fitness. A main focus of the class is improvement in physical conditioning. In addition to physical improvement and development, the students will participate in a variety of activities that include speedball (flag FB), indoor/outdoor soccer, tennis, basketball, softball, beach volleyball, and various other activities that promote an active lifestyle. Fitness testing will be administered to monitor the level of physical improvement. Good social behavior, teamwork and sportsmanship are stressed in class. The curriculum is designed to provide adolescents with the knowledge and skills needed to enjoy a physically active, healthy lifestyle.

BAND 7^th & 8^th (2 semester)

These courses involve playing a musical instrument as a part of a large group. Emphasis will be placed on playing techniques, (i.e.: tone, balance, intonation, interpretation and theory and performances). Several evening performances are a required part of these classes. Other performances will include parades, contests, solos, small ensembles and a High School half-time show. Students are encouraged to take private lessons to help them better prepare for rehearsals.

ORCHESTRA 7^th & 8^th (2 semesters)

This course involves playing a string instrument as part of a large group. Emphasis will be placed on playing technique, rhythm and bowling variations. Music for the orchestra is designed to develop fingering facility in different positions and keys. Several evening performances are required as part of this class. Other performances include solos, contests, and ensembles. Students are encouraged to take private lessons and summer lessons to prepare for the orchestra.

CHORUS 7^th & 8^th (2 semesters)

These courses improve the singing voice through a variety of music. Skills are developed in singing 3 - 4 part choral music. All performances are a required part of the class. There will be some daytime and some evening performances, including concerts, contests, solos and ensembles. There will be some travel to other schools.

EXPLORATIONS IN GENERAL MUSIC: 7^th and 8^th (1 semester)

This class is not a performance class. It will include the study of a variety of music such as classical, contemporary, jazz and country. Music cultures and dances will be reviewed. Students will experience an appreciation for music.

PUBLICATIONS: 7^th and 8^th GRADERS ARE ELIGIBLE (2 semesters)

*ONLY STUDENTS WHO MEET THE REQUIREMENTS ARE ELIGIBLE

The objective of this course is to produce a quality yearbook and to publish a quality middle school newspaper throughout the year. Each student will be expected to prepare layouts, research and write articles, take photographs, and participate in other necessary projects. Students will experience the various tasks involved in producing two different publications in a hands-on setting.

EXPLORATIONS IN SPANISH: 7^th or 8^th (1 semester)

For young americans, learning Spanish is not learning a "foreign" language, but learning a language that is widely spoken by many in the USA. This course provides students with an exciting and motivating introduction to the sights, language, foods, and music of the Hispanic Culture. This course serves as the initial step into the new language and culture.

EXPLORATIONS IN DRAMA: 7^th or 8^th (1 semester)

In the first half of this semester course, the students will explore the history of Drama. They will study parts of the stage, the different kinds of lighting equipment, the different styles of theater, diction / enunciation and dialects affecting stage speaking. In the second half of this semester course they will study the rules of acting and movement, and perform pantomimes and memorized scenes.

EXPLORATIONS IN ART TECHNIQUES 7^th or 8^th (1 semester)

This course is designed to explore the basics of drawing, color theory, and one point perspective drawing. The students will learn shading, texturing, composition, and proportion to be used in drawings. Color theory will cover colors and applied design. One point perspective is used to draw architectural objects. A sketchbook is kept to enhance drawing skills. Students will need a 9x12 white drawing paper sketchbook. Students are tested on their application of learned academic skills and their creative skills.

EXPLORATIONS IN FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES: 7^th or 8^th (1 semester)

The students will explore different aspects of Family and Consumer Sciences. The course is divided into units of consumer education, foods and nutrition, sewing, communication, family and friends, interior design, floor plans, child development, careers explorations, and memory scrapbook. Fabric and supplies for sewing projects will be provided for each student.

EXPLORATIONS IN INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY: 7^th or 8^th (1 semester)

When the students enroll in this class, they will explore Drafting, Research and Design (by building a racing CO2 car), and Rocketry and Space (by building and firing a rocket). Other wood working projects will be planned and constructed. The students will also learn to work with machines and hand tools in a safe and proper manner. This experience emphasizes working with others in class as well as work settings.

OFFICE/COUNSELOR AIDE 8^th only (1 semester)
The responsibilities vary from hour to hour. They include filing, sorting mail, delivery, answering phone, etc. Sometimes students act as guides to new students and visitors.  Accepted students must be willing to work, be courteous, polite, and behave business like at all times. Selected students must understand the dignity and legality involved in confidential issues

LIBRARY AIDE 8^th only (1 semester)
This course is designed to provide a student with necessary skills to use in the library. In turn, the aide must be able to locate and check out materials for other students and staff.  S/he will become familiar with the computer circulation and cataloguing system, along with CD ROM programs available.

CLASS AIDE 8^th only (1 semester)
Students will assist the teacher as necessary. Due to the responsibility represented in this opportunity, all students selected must have a mature and dedicated attitude toward the school. Student applicants must fill out a form from the Counselors’ Office. They must obtain the signature of a teacher who recommends them. Recommended students, who meet all the other criteria will be placed in a pool and then assigned to teachers at a later date. The Administration has the right to re-assign the student out of the Aide position if his eligibility status changes during his/her semester of service.

PE AIDE 8^th only (1 semester)
The student will help with PE classes as deemed necessary by the teacher.

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