Academics

English Language Arts Block (ELA)

ELA at the 7th 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 two-hour class taught by one
teacher.

English Language Arts Honors

Honors ELA classes follow the same literature and writing skills as on-level classes, but incorporate 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 one teacher. Criteria for Honors classes is on page 6 of
this course description.

7th Grade ELA Honors Rubric
Students need to score a 770 or higher on their previous year’s LEAP test and have an A as their final grade for
English on the previous year’s report card to be eligible for Honors courses.

Math

Students will review basic computations with numbers and number relations. They will explore Geometry and
measurement. The students will be exposed to Algebra skills involving variables and equations.

Acceleration to Algebra

Acceleration to Algebra condenses 7th and 8th grade regular Math into one course. The Fall semester covers the
entire seventh grade Math curriculum, and the Spring semester studies the entire 8th grade Math curriculum.
Students with a final average of a C or better in this course are eligible to take Algebra I in 8th 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 the structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions,
weather patterns, biodiversity and changes. Human anatomy, genetics, and sex education are also studied.
Cooperative learning, lab activities and technology which incorporates Chemistry and measurement will be
used to enhance these studies.

Social Studies

7th grade Social Studies focuses on the development of the United States as a nation from Colonial times
through the Civil War Reconstruction era. Students will be exposed to a variety of methods to introduce,
reinforce, and enrich the central theme. Civics and geography concepts, as well as critical thinking nonfiction
reading and writing skills will be emphasized.

English Language Arts Block (ELA)

ELA at the 7th 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.

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.
 

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  include properties of real numbers, integers, fractions, percents, and ratios.  Students will explore proportional relationships, solving equations, graphing, measurement, and Geometry.

Acceleration to Algebra

Acceleration to Algebra is a challenging and fast-paced curriculum offered to 7th graders.  This curriculum blends both 7th and 8th grade math into one school year with the goal of taking Algebra 1 in 8th 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 8th 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 the structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions, weather patterns, biodiversity and changes. Human anatomy, genetics, and sex education 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.
 

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. Criteria for Honors classes is on page
6 of this course description.

8th Grade Honors Rubric for ELA

Students need to earn at least five 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 / Basic = 1 point
Teacher recommendation: Yes = 2 points

Math

Students will extend computation skills using exponents, scientific notations, and linear equations. Geometry
functions with irrational numbers and linear functions are also studied.

Math Honors

The honors class covers the same concepts as the on-level class. These students will follow the curriculum with
more in-depth discussions of the material. Criteria for Honors classes is on page 6 of this course description.

8th Grade Honors Rubric for Math

Students need to earn at least five 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 / Basic = 1 point
Teacher recommendation: Yes = 2 points

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 matter and energy, and the natural hazards that can
occur with imbalances. Students also investigate biological evolution through geologic time scale, genetics and
traits. Cooperative learning and technology will be used to enhance these studies.

Social Studies

In 8th grade Social Studies, students will examine the history, geography, and culture of Louisiana from the
Colonial Period through present-day. Major events in US history will also be reviewed in the context of
Louisiana's involvement in these events. Students will use these details and concepts to develop criticalthinking, nonfiction reading, and writing skills.

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. 

8th Grade ELA Honors Rubric
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
 

Math

Students will extend their understanding of mathematical concepts developed in 7th 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 system 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 matter and energy, and the natural hazards that can occur with imbalances. Students also investigate biological evolution through geologic time scale, genetics and traits. Cooperative learning and technology 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, The Civil Rights movement, and the modern era. 
 

AgriScience (Offered to 7th grade)

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 8th grade only) (High School 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. 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.

Exploratory Family and Consumer Science (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

Homemaking I explores three areas of life skills: clothing and textiles, food and nutrition, and decision-making.
After learning how clothing is made and practicing basic sewing skills, students will construct a simple
garment. Food and Nutrition introduces students to proper table etiquette, food safety and sanitation, kitchen
equipment and utensils, nutrition values and guidelines, and how to plan and prepare nutritious foods. There is a
supply fee of $5.00 for this class.

Family and Consumer Science I (FACS I) (Offered to 8th grade only) (High School credit class)

Students must have taken Homemaking I to enroll in this class. 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 to complete a garment. Students will also learn about nutrition and food preparation skills. A
lab fee of $5.00 is required for this course. 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.

Exploratory French (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

For student success, a minimum of Basic on the most recent English LEAP and an A or B in the previous year’s
English class is required for placement in a Foreign Language. Students do not need prior knowledge of French
for this course. Goals in French class are communication in a language other than their own, knowledge and
understanding of French cultures, connecting with other disciplines, developing insight into their own language
and culture, and participating in multilingual activities at home and around the world. Exploratory French
students start with the French alphabet and progress to introducing themselves, talking about their friends and
family, and ordering in a restaurant.

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

Students must have taken Exploratory French to enroll in this class. French I students will build on the skills
learned in Exploratory 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.

GTT - Gateway to Technology (Offered to 8th grade only)

The GTT program addresses the interest and energy of students while incorporating national standards in
Mathematics, Science, and Technology. This activity oriented, cutting edge program shows students how
technology is used in engineering to solve everyday problems. GTT currently consists of eight instructional
units that motivate students to become creative innovators. During the GTT experience, students will gain the
skills they need to develop, produce, and use products and services. The Gateway to Technology curriculum
provides project-based learning while promoting communication and collaboration through a team approach in
the instructional units.

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 in 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.

Exploratory Spanish (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

For student success a minimum of Basic on the most recent English LEAP and an A or B in the previous year’s
English class is required for placement in a Foreign Language. Students will learn the foundation of Spanish.
They will learn how to pronounce, conjugate verbs and how masculine and feminine nouns work with articles
and adjectives. No prior knowledge of the Spanish language is needed.

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

Students must have taken Spanish I to enroll in this class. Students will build on the skills learned in
Exploratory to Spanish and become more proficient in their communication. 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.

Study Skills (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)

This course provides students with tools that can help them be successful academically. They will be introduced
to a variety of studying techniques. Some of the important skills they will learn include: organization ideas,
taking notes, developing schedules, reading strategies, and preparing for tests. Use of the student planner for
tracking homework assignments will be required. Learning strategies will also be developed which are best
suited to the students' individual learning styles. Study Skills is a specialized course. Eligibility is based upon
grades and test scores. (Limited class size)

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 8th grade only)(High School 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. 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 to complete a garment. 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.

Exploratory French (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)
For student success, a minimum of Basic on the most recent English LEAP and an A or B in the previous year’s English class is required for placement in a Foreign Language. Students do not need prior knowledge of French for this course. Goals in French class are communication in a language other than their own, knowledge and understanding of French cultures, connecting with other disciplines, developing insight into their own language and culture, and participating in multilingual activities at home and around the world. Exploratory French students start with the French alphabet and progress to introducing themselves, talking about their friends and family, and ordering in a restaurant. 

French I (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)
Students must have taken Exploratory French to enroll in this class. French I students will build on the skills learned in Exploratory 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.

GTT - Gateway to Technology (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)
The GTT program addresses the interest and energy of students while incorporating national standards in Mathematics, Science, and Technology. This activity oriented, cutting edge program shows students how technology is used in engineering to solve everyday problems. GTT currently consists of eight instructional units that motivate students to become creative innovators. During the GTT experience, students will gain the skills they need to develop, produce, and use products and services. The Gateway to Technology curriculum provides project-based learning while promoting communication and collaboration through a team approach in the instructional units. 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.

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 in 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.

Exploratory Spanish (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)
For student success a minimum of Basic on the most recent English LEAP and an A or B in the previous year’s English  class is required for placement in a Foreign Language. Students will learn the foundation of Spanish. They will learn how to pronounce, conjugate verbs and how masculine and feminine nouns work with articles and adjectives. No prior knowledge of the Spanish language is needed. 

Spanish I (Offered to 8th grade only)(High School credit class)
Students must have taken Spanish I to enroll in this class. Students will build on the skills learned in Exploratory to Spanish and become more proficient in their communication. 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.

Speech (Offered to 7th and 8th grade for High School Credit and Non Credit)
Speech is an introductory course designed to teach students the fundamentals of public speaking as well as how to communicate on a social and professional level. Students will be exposed to writing, practicing, and presenting all types of speeches in front of their classroom audience that will prepare them for real-world situations outside the classroom. 
Students may choose to take the Speech 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. 

Study Skills (Offered to 7th and 8th grade)
This course provides students with tools that can help them be successful academically. They will be introduced to a variety of studying techniques. Some of the important skills they will learn include: organization ideas, taking notes, developing schedules, reading strategies, and preparing for tests. Use of the student planner for tracking homework assignments will be required. Learning strategies will also be developed which are best suited to the students individual learning styles. Study Skills is a specialized course.  Eligibility is based upon grades and test scores. (Limited class size)
 

Course descriptions of available electives.

Electives Scheduling Form