architectural software program to create
an environmentally friendly home using
shipping containers.
Instructional Focus: This course empha-
sizes high levels of academic rigor and
computer literacy. Homework is an
integral part of this course and students
must be independently motivated to
complete it in a timely manner. This class
combines key pre-engineering content
areas through a nationally recognized
program called Project Lead the Way:
Gateway. The program, whose goal is to
develop more American engineers,
includes modules in Automation and
Robotics, Introduction to Computer Sci-
ence, and Green Architecture. Authentic,
real-world problem solving-skills are em-
phasized throughout the class. This is an
academically challenging pre-engineering
course and is best suited for a motivated,
collaborative learner.
Astronomy
[JMS only]
[elective, every other day]
Intended Audience: Grade 8
Major Outcomes:
• Learn about the properties of stars and
the constellations they belong to.
• Explore our Solar System with an em-
phasis 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: 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.
Middle School Registration Guide
Environmental Science
[JMS only]
[elective, every other day]
Intended Audience: Grade 8
Major Outcomes:
• Characterize the biomes found in MN
and around the world by the interac-
tions 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 environ-
mental issues such as global climate
change, water pollution, air pollution,
and invasive species.
Projects/Activities: 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 learn-
ing 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.
Social Studies Courses
Minnesota Studies 6
[full year]
Intended Audience: Grade 6
Major Outcomes:
• Students study Minnesota history
and its government, placing the state
and its people within context of the
national story.
• Engage in historical inquiry and study
events, issues and individuals signifi-
cant to Minnesota history.
• Analyze the state’s physical features
and how the location of resources
affected settlement patterns and the
growth of cities.
• Learn about economics.
• Learn about the unique role Minnesota
played, and continues to play, in
regional, national and global events.
• Study current events and analyze their
global impact.
Instructional Focus: Instruction is
presented in a variety of way such as:
class discussion, small and large group
activities, simulations, and the use of
technologies.
United States Studies 7
[full year]
Intended Audience: Grade 7
Major Outcomes:
• Grade seven features history as
the lead discipline.
• The interdisciplinary “Studies”
approach is further enhanced with
important government, citizenship,
eco