7th Grade Electives

AVID— Advancement Via Individual Determination—is an academic program that prepares students from all family backgrounds for successful entry into four-year colleges and universities. AVID concentrates on study skills, time management and foundations necessary for college success. All students enrolled in AVID will prepare for and take the PSAT, SAT, and/or ACT. AVID students must be willing to enroll in at least one Pre AP or AP course. Students must apply for admission into the AVID.
Prerequisites: Application, references, oral, and written interview process. Students should have minimum of a C average and want the challenge of advanced courses.  If choosing AVID, please complete the application for this class at this link:
https://forms.gle/HTF1ptbpFmaVcyuv8

Documento en español
https://forms.gle/Rm6detEmtosHs6BD9

GATEWAY TO TECHNOLOGY--Students are provided opportunities to investigate problems and apply a problem-solving or design process to creatively identify solutions. Students are introduced to problems and are asked to make connections throughout the lessons. Students learn and use methods for communicating design ideas through sketches, solid models, mathematical, and computerized models. Students work in teams to identify design requirements, research the topic, and engage stakeholders. **This course is offered for High School credit**

TOUCH SYSTEMS DATA ENTRY--Students implement personal and interpersonal skills to strengthen individual performance in the workplace and in society and make a successful transition to the workforce and postsecondary education. Students apply technical skills to address business applications of emerging technologies, create word-processing documents, develop a spreadsheet, formulate a database, and make an electronic presentation using appropriate software.  **This course is offered for High School credit**

SPANISH I--This course begins the basic program in the Spanish language with the introduction to the communication skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing. Vocabulary acquisition is a key element. Students will compare cultures and language, as well as make cultural community connections. This course stresses spoken communication in everyday situations but includes the visual reinforcement of reading and writing. Games, skits, videos, CD’s, and projects are used to reinforce language skills and to introduce various aspects of the culture.**This course is offered for High School credit**

ART MS 1&2–This course extends the learning of the elements of art and principles of design, art history, and art appreciation. Students design, develop, and create art using a variety of media. **Advanced class is teacher selection only

THEATRE ARTS MS 1&2—Students learn basic acting skills, pantomime, improvisation, storytelling, character analysis, theatrical design, body expression and the relationship of theatre to history, society, and culture. **Advanced class is audition only

BAND—Students will extend learning and performance techniques on various instruments in the wind-band family and learn techniques associated with woodwind, brass, and percussion pedagogy.  Students are expected to perform a varied selection of literature throughout the year.  This course may include rehearsals and performances outside the school day. **Advanced class (Jazz & Symphonic Band)  is audition only

GUITAR MS 1&2 -Instrumental Ensemble—Students further develop ear training, individual and ensemble playing skills, tone production, and music reading in a full ensemble setting. Students attend sectional technique classes, and participate in numerous concerts, contests and community performances. **Advanced class is audition only


DANCE MS 1&2—Students will extend the learner’s knowledge of basic elements of dance styles and acquire the wellness information and skills necessary to become healthy adults. All Dance class students may be required to purchase dance class attire and participate in fundraising for annual dance recitals. Dance team-**Advanced class is audition only

CHOIR MS 1&2 boys and girls—Students will develop skills in musicianship, ear training/listening skills, individual/ensemble singing, vocal production, music reading, performance skills, and basic music theory. **Advanced class is audition only
Show Choir-This course combines choral singing and choreographed movements. **This class is audition only

ATHLETICS—Participants will develop fundamental skills as well as learn strategies, rules and procedures used for each sport activity. All participants must have a yearly physical exam completed on the UIL form. Students may be required to try-out for participation in athletic classes. Participants must pass all courses to be eligible for competitions.