U.S. History 8 (1.0) (8410A-semester 1, 8410B-semester 2)
This course covers events and issues from the Age of Exploration through post-Civil War Reconstruction and the Westward movement, emphasizing the 18th and 19th centuries. Topics covered will include, but are not limited to exploration, colonization, the Revolutionary War, Constitutional issues, nation building, the Civil War, Reconstruction, and the Westward movement.

Language Arts 8 (1.0) (8210A-semester 1, 8210B-semester 2)
This course, based on the 8th Grade Utah English Language Arts (ELA) Core Standards, is designed for grade-level instruction reading comprehension, writing, methods of inquiry and the processes, skills, and strategies for effective communication.
 
Language Arts 8 H (1.0) (8220A-semester 1, 8220B-semester 2)
Prerequisite: Application is required and available online.  Availability will be based on past grades, SRI (Reading Scores), and instructor approval.  Students must have a reading SRI score of 1186-1700+.  Students can receive their SRI Score from their Language Arts Teachers.  Please select Honors now and a screening process will occur after current SRI results come in.  Latest SRI scores are available through current language art teacher.  This course, based on the 8th Grade Utah English Language Arts (ELA) Core Standards, is designed for students who qualify for more advanced instruction in reading comprehension, writing, methods of inquiry, and the processes, skills, and strategies for effective communication.

8th Grade Mathematics (1.0) (8120A-semester 1, 8120B-semester 2)
Prerequisite: 7th Grade Mathematics In 8th Grade Mathematics students will focus on formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; grasping the concepts of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; and analyzing two- and three dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean theorem.
 
8th Grade Mathematics Honors (1.0) (8130A-semester 1, 8130B-semester2)
If students self-select secondary honors math I, they are required to complete all honors evaluations and assignments.
Prerequisite: 7th Grade Mathematics.  Application Required.  Application available online.  Decisions are based on past grades and teacher recommendation.  
In 8th Grade Mathematics Honors, students will focus on formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, and solving linear equations and systems of linear equations; grasping the concept of a function and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; and analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. The Honors course includes extra depth and additional topics such as: 3-D graphing and graph theory, fair division and apportionment, sets, and voting theory.
 
Secondary Math I (9130 – semester 1, 9130B – semester 2)
Application is required and available online.  Decisions are based on past grades, and Teacher Recommendation.  
The fundamental purpose of Mathematics I Honors is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. The critical areas, organized into units, deepen and extend understanding of linear relationships, in part by contrasting them with exponential phenomena, and in part by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend. Mathematics 1 Honors uses properties and theorems involving congruent figures to deepen and extend understanding of geometric knowledge from prior grades. The final unit in the course ties together the algebraic and geometric ideas studied. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations. Mathematics I Honors covers additional concepts in more depth and at a faster pace then the Mathematics I course.

Integrated Science 8 (1.0) (8300A-semester 1, 8300B-semester 2)
The eighth grade science course focuses on science and engineering as a way to practice science in a classroom setting. It is a tour through many topics in science. We will explore how matter is arranged into either simple or complex substances. We emphasize how substances store and transfer energy, which can cause them to interact physically and chemically, provide energy to living organisms, or be harnessed and used by humans. We take a look at how matter and energy cycle and change in ecosystems through processes that occur during photosynthesis and cellular respiration. Additionally, we consider the way that substances that provide a benefit to organisms, including humans, are unevenly distributed on Earth due to geologic and atmospheric systems. Some resources form quickly, allowing them to be renewable, while other resources are nonrenewable. We examine evidence which reveals that Earth systems change and affect ecosystems and organisms in positive and negative ways.

Digital Literacy 8th (0.5) 8607- Students learn the skills necessary to use computers comfortably, while improving learning, productivity, and performance. This course offers a thorough introduction to computers, networks, and computer peripherals such as printers, digital cameras, and more, such as understanding an operating system, working on a laptop versus a desktop, printing and understanding five traits almost all applications share. In addition, basic procedures with software applications, e-mail, the Internet and Internet security, privacy, and ethics are covered.  

Fitness 8 (.50) Female (8710FA-semester 1, 8710FB-semester 2) Male (8710MA-semester 1, 8710MB-semester 2)
This is a physical education course with emphasis on skills, knowledge, and participation in a variety of team sports, conditioning, and recreational activities.

Health 1 (.05) 8th Female (8800FA-semester 1, 8800FB-semester 2) Male (8800MA-semester 1, 8800MB-semester 2)
This course develops the skills needed to improve the quality of life by helping students to cope with and solve problems, develop positive self-image, and make healthy decisions. The students will explore positive life styles, disease prevention, emergency procedures, media literacy, and alcohol and drug abuse prevention.

PHOENIX PRIDE – Leadership/Homeroom (.25) (PH)
Students will earn elective credit for this course. It covers character education and leadership.  Some of the curriculum that may be used: Leader in Me, Love and Logic, Second Steps.  This is a required course here at ELA.  Students will have the same pride teacher from 7-9th grade.  Students cannot choose their pride teacher.  
 

Fine Arts Elective Course Options

Boys Choir I (0.5 or 1.0) 7th, 8th, 9th (7510MA-Semester 1, 7510MB-Semester 2)
Prerequisite: None
$ fee required
Don’t miss out on BOYS CHOIR!  This class will be packed with energy and FUN!  Yes, choir is FUN!  We will sing songs from all over the world, from Bach to Rock!  We will build powerful, amazing, healthy voices that can’t be stopped!  You will not have another class like it!
 
Girls Choir I (0.5 or 1.0) 7th, 8th, 9th (7510FA-Semester 1, 7510FB-Semester 2)
Prerequisite: None
$ fee required
Girls just wanna have fun?  YES! We do!  ELA’s all girls choir is an amazing opportunity for ELA girls to kick it up a notch!  We will work to create amazing, strong, healthy voices and great musicianship!  You are not going to want to miss signing up for this class!  
 
Choir II Spotlights Co-Ed (1.0) 8th or 9th Grade (8520A – semester 1, 8520B – semester 2)
Prerequisite: Choir I
$ fee required
If you want to be involved in an amazing class, this is a must for your schedule!  In Spotlight Singers we study the care and cultivation of a beautiful vocal tone, aesthetic sensitivity, increasing the ability to read music, building technical vocal skills, team spirit, and responsible rehearsal habits.
 
Theatre II (0.5 or 1.0) 8th (8530A-Semester 1, 8530B-Semester 2)
Prerequisite: None
$ fee required
In this class, students will improve their acting prowess through the study of advanced improv, musical theatre, play production, POW! (Phoenix Original Works) and more!
 
Stage Crew (.50) 8th, 9th (8920A-semester 1, 8920B- semester 2)
Prerequisite: None
$ fee required
Application required, tryouts will be January of the school year prior.
In this class you will learn the art of technical theatre (lights, sound, costumes, stage management, etc.). Stage Crew will be running all technical events happening at ELA. Part of your grade will be running crew outside of class. Prepare to work hard and have the time of your life!

Advanced Running Crew (2.0) 8th & 9th (8925A- semester 1, 8925B-semester 2)
Prerequisite: None
$ fee required
Application required, tryouts will be January of the school year prior. This class will be double blocked.  Course for 9th graders will be counted as Audio Visual Team and Stage Craft Tech.
In this class you will continue to learn the art of technical theatre (lights, sound, costumes, stage management, etc.). ELA Crew will be running all technical events happening in the theatre areas of ELA. Part of your grade will be running crew outside of class. Prepare to work hard and have the time of your life!
 
Beginning Orchestra (0.5) 7th, 8th, 9th (8510A–semester 1)
Prerequisite: None
$ fee required
This course is for students who are interested in playing the violin, viola, cello, and bass. There are two evening performances (October and December) outside of class that are part of this course. Practice time outside of school is required. An instrument for use at home and school is required.

Advanced Orchestra (0.5) 7th, 8th, 9th ( semester 2 only)
Prerequisite:  Beginning orchestra or instructor approval .
$ fee required
This course is for students who are interested in playing the violin, viola, cello, and bass and have had Beginning Orchestra or can pass a playing test with the instructor. There are two evening performances (March & May) outside of class that are part of this course. Practice time outside of school is required. An instrument for use at home and school is required.

Wind Ensemble (0.5) 7th, 8th, & 9th (7524A-semester 1)
Prerequisite: None
$ fee required
This course is for students who are interested in playing flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone or baritone/euphonium as part of an ensemble.  Two evening performances (October & December) outside of class are part of this course. Practice time outside of school is required. An instrument for use at home and school is required.

Ukulele (0.5) 7th, 8th, & 9th (  -semester 1)
$ fee required
*Students must provide or rent own instrument.  
This course is for students who are interested in playing ukulele--both chords and fingerstyle.  Singing while playing will be encouraged. Practice time outside of school is required. An instrument for use at home and school is required. This is a great class where you can play songs in a fun environment to help you relax from the stresses of the day. Come and learn one of the most accessible and popular instruments out there!  

Music Composition and Connections (0.5) 7th, 8th, & 9th (7521)
Prerequisite: None
$ fee required
This course is for students who would like to learn how to notate music, both freehand and with notational software. Instruments are not required for this course.  Students will learn the basics of piano and music theory and how to notate music for different instruments. Final project will be a “Composer’s Alive!” recital, where students’ works will be performed by live musicians.

Acoustic Guitar (0.5) 8th & 9th (8910A – semester 1, 8910B – semester 2)
$ fee required
This is an intro class for beginners who have little to no guitar experience. Acoustic only. Come learn how to play or improve your budding skills!
*Student must provide his/her own acoustic guitar.
 
Drawing 1 (0.5)
$ fee required
This class will provide students with a basic art skills and techniques across a variety of drawing media. It will also provide art experiences that will develop visual competence, expertise of skills in two- dimensional art in value and in color, and awareness of historical art movements.

Drawing 2 (0.5)
$ fee required
Prerequisite:  Drawing 1 required or permission from professor with advanced portfolio review.
This class will build upon the roots of Drawing I. You will push the creative and technical components of making a drawing with emphasis on line, form, space, composition, value, color, time, and design. You will widen your understanding of different mediums and begin to understand how they might be introduced into your own personal work. Drawing projects, class projects, class critiques, daily drawing and one on one direction.  

Painting 1 (0.5)
$ fee required
This class is a basic studio course in the media and techniques of painting. Activity will emphasize the study of color, structure, creativity and aesthetic values in general. A command of techniques and materials, both traditional and experimental, will be taught.

Painting 2 (0.5)
$ fee required
Prerequisite:  Painting 1 required or permission from professor with advanced portfolio review.
In this class, students will receive more advanced assignments with increasing emphasis on the expressive possibilities of the medium.

Digital Photography 1 (0.5) 8 & 9th (8560 & 8560B)
Can be offered as a CTE credit or fine art elective credit.  Photography includes the inventive use of light and photographic equipment to create art. This is a fundamental course covering camera mechanics, film types, lighting, and composition. With an emphasis on studio production, this course is designed to develop higher-level thinking skills and art-related technology skills. Some art criticism, art history, and aesthetics may be included.
                                   
*Other Electives Offered*

Yearbook/Graphic Design (1.0) 8th & 9th (8230A – semester 1, 8230B – semester 2)
Are you a whiz on the computer? Do you have strong writing skills and want to be a part of history? If you work well with others, are good at meeting deadlines, and are willing to give 100% to every assignment, then apply to be part of the Yearbook Staff and help create the book that showcases our awesome school life at ELA.
 
STEM (1.0) (7350 – semester 1, 7350B – semester 2)
STEM is a science elective which integrates Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics. This class is a hands on exploration of topics that allow students to build, create, explore and learn. The topics covered in STEM include units on the science of flight and aeronautics, engineering towers and bridges, CSI crime solving, Electronic Circuits, Coding and Alternative Energy. We build rockets, four foot towers, paper dragsters clocked at 90 mph, electric cars and even drop eggs off the sky ride at Lagoon, Come explore, learn and have fun in STEM!
 
Spanish I (1.0) 8th & 9th (8240 – semester 1, 8240B – semester 2)
¡Bienvenidos a español I!
This is an introductory class with focus on basic comprehension and speaking in the Spanish language. Students will experience Spanish through storytelling and skits, daily interactive games, songs, and more! We will discover countries around the globe, learn about unique customs, learn dances, etc.! We also have fiestas, enjoying authentic Mexican and other cuisine! Please join our room of fun and laughter! Students love the atmosphere because they “get to play games” in class!  

World Languages (0.5) 7th & 8th
This course is designed to allow 7th and 8th grade students to have exposure to a variety of world languages, including Spanish, Italian, French, and German. Through this multilingual experience, students will recognize similarities and differences in spoken language, learn basic expressions, vocabulary, and become more aware of world history and its impact on language. Through these experiences students will be able to identify which languages they may be
interested in studying further at either ELA or at the High School level.  
 
Student Aide (0.5 or 1.0) (9910 – semester 1, 9910B – semester 2)
Application is required.  Students will need to go to Mrs. Kugler's website and click on student aide.  They will be required to fill out the forms to receive a passing grade.
Do you like to help others? Do you like to organize things? Do you enjoy working with children? Do you like to keep busy and interact with others? If so, then being an aide might be just the elective choice for you. Aide positions are available for elementary, junior high, library, and office.

Dance 1 (0.5 or 1.0) 7th, 8th, and 9th (7728)
This course offers basic dance techniques, fitness fundamentals, movement qualities, and rhythm with an emphasis on creativity, sequencing, and problem solving.
 
Weight Training (.50) 7th, 8th, & 9th (7726)
This course is designed as an introduction to proper weight lifting techniques and includes the development of individual programs that develop body tone, muscle strength, and physical conditioning.
 
Yoga (0.5) 8th & 9th (7725)
This class introduces foundational yoga postures, teaches you how to breathe, and helps you feel more comfortable in the yoga practice.  Students will be introduced to yoga postures through step-by-step verbal description and demonstration. Emphasis is placed on student understanding, safety, and stability within each pose.  This class will help you relax the physical body while helping to quiet the mind and calm the nervous system. Leave relaxed, content, and ready to take on the day!  Open to students of all levels.
 
Team Sports (0.5) 7th, 8th, & 9th (8720A-semester 1, 8720B-semester 2)
This course is designed to teach sports which require group participation and cooperation. (This class cannot be substituted for Participation Skills and Techniques).

Total Body Strength and Conditioning (0.5) 7th, 8th, & 9th (7727)
This class is a total body aerobic and strength conditioning workout.  This interval-based class combines full-body strength training with high-intensity cardio bursts designed to tone your body, improve your endurance, and clear your mind before you start your busy day! This class includes circuit training and stretching for a complete workout.  All levels are welcome!

Beginning Tumbling Class (0.5) 7th, 8th, & 9th
This class focuses on providing the skills necessary for beginning tumbling. Students will spend time working on strength and tumbling drills that will help them get one step closer to better tumbling for classes and try-outs. Beginner tumbling will work on strengthening handstands, cartwheels, bridges, and rolls, as well as drills for round offs, and walkovers. There will be no instruction on apparatuses (vault, bars, beam, or floor).

Self Defense (0.5)  7th, 8th & 9th
The Taekwondo program of martial arts will provide students with not only the most effective method of weaponless self-defense, but will also introduce them to an intricate art form, an Olympic sports, and a means of maintaining physical fitness.  The purpose of training in martial arts is to develop coordination between the mind, body, and spirit.  The martial art drills and learning activities in this class integrate aerobic stamina and physical strength with concentration skills.  What you will learn in this course will help you in every aspect of your life.  

 ELA News & Elementary Yearbook (0.5) 7th, 8th, and 9th
This course will have two components: First, students will learn basic journalism skills such as note-taking, planning, interviewing, and editing, etc. They will also learn team building and leadership skills while collaborating on the Elementary Yearbook. Graphic Design skills will be taught in order to create a visually strong presentation of our school’s memories. Second, students will learn basic broadcast journalism skills, including script writing, video production, studio lighting, and basic video editing, etc. They will use these skills to create the weekly school news video, The Phoenix Feed.