Exploratory Electives at the Middle School level are designed to enrich and expand the academic core program. Electives will be graded on a tri-semester schedule which allows students to participate in three different exploratory classes per year.
Adventure Education is both physically and mentally challenging for middle school students. Adventure activities have been used to develop human qualities such as compassion, inventiveness, and tenacity. Students in this competence area gain a solid foundation of outdoor pursuit skills with an emphasis on the facilitation of adventure activities for groups, toward
the goal of increasing self-concept and social skills among participants. Students are encouraged to develop a sense of obligation to participate and fulfill the responsibilities related to being a member of both the human and natural communities.
Adventure education will cross with many other subject areas. Math, specifically geometry, will be a central
focus for mapping & orienteering activities. Life science will be briefly discussed in lessons pertaining to humans’ impact on the wilderness. History will be used during the orienteering unit while using the compass & discussing explorers. Health class will dovetail in this adventure education course in the unit on first aid and safety. The activity portion of the class will fit in with physical education.
MIDDLE SCHOOL ELECTIVES
2004-2005
SYCAMORE
CANYON
SCHOOL
The Art of Math
Math and art are intertwined. As a matter of fact, math plays a major role in art and vice versa. For example, cubism by Picasso, Leonardo Da Vinci’s many inventions and M.C. Escher’s wonderful tessellation and optical illusions. One of the best avenues in learning about geometry is through exploration of the arts. Incorporating art projects with geometric configurations, students can gain a better understanding of geometry and art.
In this class, the students will learn about mosaics, 3-D scale drawing, polyhedrons, symmetry and optical illusions. The students will have individual art projects along with partner and group projects. A few of the art projects that they will create are string art, how to make mobius strips, and symmetrical picture design. An entire unit will focus on M. C. Escher and his fascinating art. Through this unit, the students will produce their own tessellation masterpiece. And for everyone’s enjoyment, the students’ “Art of Math” will be displayed in the classroom and in the hallways of Sycamore Canyon
The purpose of the ASB/Leadership class is to instruct students in areas of personal values and responsibility, leadership qualities and skills, meeting skills, and activity planning.
Students will learn and practice leadership skills which will include, communication, problem solving, decision-making skills, planning techniques, organizational skills, group dynamics, time management, goal setting, project planning, delegation, public speaking, public relations and financial accountability, just to name a few!
Student responsibilities will include, but are not limited to...planning lunchtime activities, fundraising, recognition programs, assemblies, student sales, new student orientation, dance/carnival/Renaissance planning, and raising school spirit.
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Adventure Education/Orienteering |
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The Art of Math |
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ASB/Leadership |
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Bridges |
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Computer Applications |
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Gizmos & Gadgets |
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Odyssey of the Mind |
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Speech & Debate |
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Beginning Band |
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Advanced Band |
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Music Appreciation |
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Mini-Society |
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Video Production |
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Spanish (8th Grade) |
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Directed Studies |