Academics

Course Description Guide 

Fontainebleau Junior High School

Course Description Guide

 

Criteria for Honors Classes

7th GRADE ELA HONORS RUBRIC

Students need to score Advanced on their previous year’s LEAP test and have an A as their final grade on the previous year’s report card for English to be eligible for Honors courses.

8th GRADE HONORS RUBRIC FOR ELA

 Students need to earn at least four points to be eligible for Honors courses. Students who earn a C as their final grade on the previous year’s report card for the specific course will not be eligible for Honors for the specific course.

Previous year’s course grade in specific subject.

A = 2 points

B = 1 points

Previous year’s LEAP score in specific subject.

Advanced = 3 points                                                 

Mastery = 2 points                                                     

Teacher recommendation

Yes = 1 point

Gifted Courses

Admission into the Gifted program is determined by STPSB special education evaluation. The Gifted Program at Fontainebleau Junior High School offers academic courses that meet the unique needs of gifted students, facilitating individualized instruction while preparing students for Gifted and Advanced courses at the high school level. Gifted courses are available in English Language Arts, Math, and Social Studies. Students must be identified as gifted and have a current IEP in St. Tammany Parish. If the student has been previously identified as gifted in St. Tammany and wishes to resume gifted services, they may contact the Gifted Department to begin the IEP process.

 

SEVENTH GRADE CURRICULUM

English Language Arts Block (ELA)

ELA at the 7^th grade level  reviews grammar skills, vocabulary skills, research skills, and various modes of writing. The class develops higher order thinking skills using multicultural literature in a variety of genres. Following Louisiana's grade level expectations, students are taught to analyze fiction and nonfiction works then defend their conclusions in written and verbal contexts. Students also read novels outside of class and write in response to what they are reading in reading logs and book critiques. ELA is a 2-hour class taught by one teacher.

English Language Arts Honors

Honors ELA class follows the same literature and writing skills as on-level classes but incorporates more rigorous, higher order thinking assignments to challenge students’ capabilities. Additionally, there is a higher expectation for evaluation of literature both in written responses and in oral discussions. Like on-level classes, honors classes are taught in a two hour block of time by the same teacher.

Math

Students will expand their mathematical skill-set, with attention devoted to developing mathematical literacy with an emphasis on real-life applications.  The class will foster students' ability to think critically, persevere in problem solving, and collaboratively engage in mathematical discourse.

Topics covered are:

-          Using properties and operations of all rational numbers including positive and negative integers, fractions, decimals

-          Explore proportional relationships with equations and graphs using unit rates and ratios

-          Apply properties of operations to generate equivalent expressions, and solve multi-step equations

-          Apply knowledge of equations to geometry concepts such as area, surface area, volume, and angle relationships

-          Introduced to proportional reasoning using percents, statistical samples and probability

Acceleration to Algebra

Acceleration to Algebra is a challenging and fast-paced curriculum offered to 7^th graders.  This curriculum blends both 7^th and 8^th grade math into one school year with the goal of taking Algebra 1 in 8^th grade.  In order for a student to be placed in Acceleration to Algebra the student must meet the STPSB criteria according to a rubric. Students with a final average of C or better in this course are eligible to take Algebra I in 8^th grade for high school credit.

Physical Education

Team sports as well as lifetime sports and recreational games are introduced in the 7th grade with an emphasis on positive student cooperation and skill building. Students are required to dress out and participate daily.

Science

Students in 7th grade science will be introduced to metabolism, phase change, chemical reactions, traits & reproduction.  Climate, weather patterns, as well as Earth's changing climate as a result of human activities are also studied.  Cooperative learning, lab activities and technology which incorporates Chemistry and measurement will be used to enhance these studies. 

Social Studies

Beginning with the presidency of George Washington, this course offers a chronological study of major events, issues, movements, individuals, and groups of people in the United States from a national and a Louisiana perspective. In this course students will examine the development of the early republic, the Louisiana Purchase, the War of 1812, westward expansion, social and political reform movements of the nineteenth century, the growth of nationalism and sectionalism, the Civil War, and the Reconstruction period.

 

EIGHTH GRADE CURRICULUM

English Language Arts Block (ELA)

ELA at the 8th grade level reviews grammar skills, vocabulary skills, research skills, and various modes of writing. The class develops higher order thinking skills using multicultural literature in a variety of genres. Following Louisiana's benchmarks and standards, students are taught to evaluate fiction and nonfiction works then defend their conclusions in written and verbal contexts. Students are expected to use literary vocabulary in their discussions. Research skills, from thesis statements through publications, are emphasized in preparation for high school. ELA is a two hour class taught by one teacher.

English Language Arts Honors

Honors ELA class follows the same literature and writing skills as on-level classes but incorporates more rigorous, higher order thinking assignments to challenge students’ capabilities. Additionally, there is a higher expectation for evaluation of literature both in written responses and in oral discussions. Like on-level classes, honors classes are taught in a two hour block of time by the same teacher.

Math

Students will extend their understanding of mathematical concepts developed in 7^th grade using exponents, scientific notation, and solving linear equations.  They will continue to think critically, persevere in problem solving, and collaboratively engage in mathematical discourse with an emphasis on real-life applications.  Students will explore systems of equations, linear functions, irrational numbers, geometric transformations, Pythagorean theorem, slope, and use of radicals.

Algebra I (High School credit class)

Students will follow the ninth grade Algebra I curriculum.  This involves extensive studies into Algebra skills. These skills include solving multiple step equations and inequalities, graphing relations and functions, and exploring and factoring polynomials. Students are challenged with problems that promote critical thinking skills. Students who take this class have the potential to earn a Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript.

Physical Education

The 8th grade Physical Education curriculum focuses on specific skills and strategies for various sports and activities.  Students are introduced to all facets of sports such as officiating, statistical analysis, coaching, and athletic engagement. Dressing out is required, and student engagement of activities is a major emphasis.  

Science

Eighth grade Science class studies Earth's processes through units such as Geology on Mars, Plate Motion, Rock Transformations, and Thermal Energy. Students also investigate biological evolution through units on Natural Selection and Evolutionary History. Cooperative learning, technology, and engineering internships will be used to enhance these studies.

Social Studies

Eighth grade Social Studies offers a chronological study of major events, issues, movements, individuals, and groups of people in the United States from a national and a Louisiana perspective beginning with the Second Industrial Revolution. Students will examine the rise of the United States as an industrial and world power, World War I, The Great Depression, Huey P. Long, The Great Flood of 1927, World War II, The Cold War, The Civil Rights movement, and the modern era.

 

ELECTIVES

Career Readiness in AgriScience (Offered to 7th grade for High School Credit and Non-Credit)

Basic knowledge of agriculture, its history and the science applications in agriculture are the main focus of Career Readiness in AgriScience. The course includes a basic study of animal science, soil science, plant science, agricultural mechanics, basic carpentry, food science technology, and agricultural leadership. Mathematics, Science, English, Biology, and human relation skills will be reinforced in the course. Students can choose to take the High School Carnegie Credit class (7th grade only) or the non-Carnegie Credit class. The same standards are taught in both sections. Students who take the section with a Carnegie Credit class have the potential to earn a Carnegie Credit if they pass the course.  Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript.

Agriscience I (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)

This course extends the knowledge of agriculture, its history, and the science applications in agriculture. A more advanced study of animal science, soil science, plant science, agricultural mechanics, basic carpentry, food science technology, and agricultural leadership are developed. Mathematics, Science, English, Biology, and human relations skills will be reinforced in the course. Students who take this class have the potential to earn a Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript.

 Introduction to Art (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

Introduction of Art is a one year course. This course focuses on the fundamentals of art. Students learn basic art vocabulary, tools, and techniques. There is a $5.00 supply fee.

Art I (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)(High School credit class)

Students will experience a more advanced and in-depth study involving the principles of art integrated with advanced technical skills. Students who take this class have the potential to earn Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript. There is a $5.00 supply fee.

Introduction to Band (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

Students do not need prior experience in band classes or private lessons; however, they should own their own instrument. Students will complete Book 1 of a Band Method, covering basic techniques of music performance. Performances will include end of the year concerts.

Junior High Band (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

Students need prior experience in band classes or private lessons. They should know how to read music and have their own instrument. Students in this course will complete  “Habits of A Successful Beginner Band Musician” and begin working on “Habits of a Successful Middle School Musician”, covering different time signatures and key signatures. Students will also work on music to be performed for Honor Band auditions, concerts, and contests. The band is featured at a Christmas concert, Spring concert, and in addition to participating in parish band festivals.

Beginning Band (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)

Students must either complete Introduction to Band or Junior High Band with a final grade of B, or pass a proficiency performance to enroll in this class. Students will complete “Habits of A Successful Middle School Musician” and “Foundations for Superior Performance”. These books will cover new time signatures and key signatures as well as rhythmic mixed studies. In addition, students will also work on music to be performed for Honor Band auditions, concerts, and contests. The band is featured at all home football games, a Christmas concert, a Spring concert, and Hurricane Highlights. They will also participate in parish, district, and state band festivals. Students who take this class have the potential to earn a Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript.

Broadcast (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

WFJH, our student run TV/multimedia broadcast station, is the major focus of this class. School announcements and informational segments are made via WFJH, channel 95, every morning.  Students will have the opportunity to experience a variety of interdisciplinary experiences working in front of and behind the camera. Basic journalistic/broadcast writing will be emphasized.  Broadcast media will require some out of class work such as covering after school activities, conducting interviews, and investigative research. The broadcast team also works the press box during all FJH home football games.

Students must complete an application to be considered for this class. Please reach out to Ms. Caserta at Emily.Caserta@stpsb.org for an application. Although this elective is not eligible for high school credit, students may take broadcast two years. The skills acquired will be useful if applying for the high school TV media elective at the high school level. 

Introduction to Chorus (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

This is a vocal music course for junior high students who have a desire to learn, sing and perform music with a group. The goal of this course is to teach students the fundamentals of music, help create independence while learning and singing music to become confident singers and develop an appreciation for music. Students will experience a variety of musical genres all the way to contemporary, while having the opportunity to perform in exciting places. No previous experience is needed.

Chorus I (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)

Students will further their knowledge of vocal health, vocal anatomy, vocal tension, and success in the music industry. Higher levels of sight reading skills are taught. Students will learn the same music as Introduction to Chorus in addition to extra songs for each concert. This class moves at a faster pace than the Introduction to Chorus course. Students must either complete Introduction to Chorus with a final grade of B, or pass a proficiency performance to enroll in this class. 8th grade students do not need to audition for this class. 7th grade students may be required to audition during the first week of school. 8th grade students who take this class will earn Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript.

 Family and Consumer Science I (FACS I) (Offered to 7th and 8th grade for High School Credit and Non Credit)

FACS I will explore five areas of life skills: personal development / resource management, child care and development, housing, clothing and textiles, and food and nutrition. Students will apply decision making skills, learn how to budget resources, and learn effective communication skills. Students will learn babysitting skills and basic child care for infants, toddlers and preschoolers. Students will apply interior design concepts to create a room redesign project and will apply sewing techniques for basic sewing skills. Students will also learn about nutrition and food preparation skills. A lab fee of $5.00 is required for this course. Students who take the FACS I High School Credit class have the potential to earn Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. With this option, semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript. In addition, passing the course will earn the student a Carnegie Credit.

NOTE: Students must choose the High School Credit option to be eligible to earn the Carnegie Credit. Students who choose the non-credit course will not be able to earn a Carnegie Credit.

French I (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)

French I students will learn French through reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students will acquire greater knowledge of several French speaking countries throughout the world, the culture, the art, the fashion and of course, the food.  Students who take this class have the potential to earn Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript. Students must have earned at least a C for their final grade in 7th grade ELA and scored at least Basic on their 7th grade ELA LEAP test. 

Introduction to Business Computer Applications  (IBCA) (Offered to 7th and 8th grade for High School Credit and Non-Credit)

IBCA is an introductory course in which students will learn about Google Docs, Google Slides, and Google Drawings. Students will learn skills such as formatting, basic editing, and several features of presentations including, but not limited to,  creating presentations, transitions, and presentation styles. Students will also learn typing skills and a basic history of computers.

Students may choose to take the IBCA High School Credit Class. With this option, semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript. In addition, passing the course will earn the student a Carnegie Credit.

NOTE: Students must choose the High School Credit option to be eligible to earn the Carnegie Credit. Students who choose the non-credit course will not be able to earn a Carnegie Credit. The same standards are taught in both classes.

Introduction to Piano (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

No previous experience is needed. Students will learn the basics of playing, reading and writing music as well as working to play songs alone and as a group. The students will learn through a variety of ways including daily piano playing time, games and projects.

Piano I (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)

This class is available for students with piano experience or for students who have passed Introduction to Piano.

Piano I continues the study of music theory and music reading while introducing basic composition. Public performing is not required, but students will participate in two class recitals. Students must either complete Introduction to Piano with a “B” or pass a proficiency performance to enroll in this class. Students who take this class have the potential to earn Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript. (Limited class size)

Quest for Success (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)

Quest for Success is an innovative, high school-level, career exploration course designed to prepare all Louisiana graduates for career and life success. The course will help all students to develop essential 21st century workforce skills, explore new and exciting careers and industry sectors, and learn about themselves and their interests to successfully navigate high school, postsecondary education, and career pathways. Students who take this class have the potential to earn Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript.

Spanish I (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)

Spanish I students will learn Spanish through reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students will acquire greater knowledge of several Spanish speaking countries throughout the world, the culture, the art, the fashion and of course, the food. Students who take this class have the potential to earn Carnegie Credit if they pass the course. Semester grades will become a permanent part of their high school transcript. Students must have earned at least a C for their final grade in 7th grade ELA and scored at least Basic on their 7th grade ELA LEAP test. 

 

Course descriptions of available electives.

Electives Scheduling Form