GRADE 8 Course Descriptions
JACKSON MIDDLE SCHOOL ELECTIVES
Astronomy
[ JMS only ] [ elective, every other day ] Major outcomes:
• Learn about the properties of stars and the constellations they belong to
• Explore our Solar System with an emphasis on the terrestrial planets and the larger moons of the Solar System
• Develop an appreciation of the history of the American space program and the impact that NASA has made.
• Explore current events in space Projects, activities, etc.: Construct a star wheel, utilize the Jackson Middle School Observatory [ JMO ], analyze light using a spectroscope, engineering projects to explore space travel concepts, investigating geologic features of our terrestrial planets and moons of the solar system. Instructional focus: Students will work individually and collaboratively on assignments. Students will utilize math, science, and research skills throughout the year. Evening“ public viewing” sessions will be available at the JMO throughout the year
Environmental Science
[ JMS only ] [ elective, every other day ] Major outcomes:
• Characterize the biomes found in MN and around the world by the interactions of biotic and abiotic factors
• Understand how the Earth works as a system by the interaction of the biosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and atmosphere staying in balance
• Understand the tools used by the environmental scientist to investigate our world
• Learn about global and local environmental issues such as global climate change, water pollution, air pollution, and invasive species
Projects, activities, etc.: Field skills will be put into practice in the prairies, wetlands and forests around JMS. Webquests will guide student research on the Earth’ s biomes and spheres. Remote sensing tools will allow students to study human impact on ecosystems. Field studies will be done at Cedar Creek Ecosystem Reserve. Classes will design and carry out a service learning project on an environmental issue of their choice. Instructional focus: Students will work on problem analysis and research; field skills will be developed with outdoor / hands-on class activities.
ASSISTANCE FOR STUDENTS ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT( ELD) SERVICES
Qualifying Multilingual Learners will be placed in an ELD course in place of a gradelevel English Language Arts [ ELA ] course; or an English Language Development [ ELD ] course in place of a grade-level elective course. This placement is based on state and district test scores and teacher recommendation. For more information about the ELD services, please see the Assistance for Students section on page 28 of this guide or contact your child’ s school.
MATH FOUNDATIONS AND / OR READING STRATEGIES
[ full year ]
Qualifying students will be placed in a math or reading intervention course in addition to their grade-level English and Math course. Students are recommended for these intervention courses based on state and district test scores, as well as teacher recommendation. For more information, please contact your school counselor.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
Students with disabilities will be placed in support services courses as determined by their special education needs relating to their disability as outlined in their Individual Education Plan [ IEP ]. For more information about the Special Education program in general, please see the Assistance for Students section on page 28 of this guide. For individual student service questions, please contact your child’ s case manager.
Middle School Registration Guide 25