100 US Highway 31 North Athens, AL 35611 (256) 233-6620 ams.acs-k12.org
STATEMENT OF NON-DISCRIMINATION
EQUAL EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES It is the policy of the Athens City Board of Education not to discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability, age, religion, or marital status in the education programs, activities, or employment, and provides equal access to the Boy Scouts and other designated youth groups The following person has been appointed to coordinate compliance efforts: Mrs Dimika Cummings, Title IX/Section 504/ADA Contact Mrs Cummings in person at Athens City Schools Board of Education Central Office, 455 U S Highway 31 North, Athens, AL 35611, by email at dimika cummings@acs-k12 org or by phone at 256 233 6600
INFORMATION AND REFERENCE
CORE COURSE
Courses required (English, Math, Science, Social Studies) for all students.
COURSE
A unit of instruction.
ELECTIVES
Courses that students choose based on interest. Some elective options are semester-long courses, and some elective options are full-year courses.
FALL SEMESTER
The first and second nine-week terms of the school year (18 weeks).
SPRING SEMESTER
The third and fourth nine-week terms of the school year (18 weeks).
GRADING SCALE
A-100-90 B-89-80 C-79-70 D-69-60 F-59-0 More information regarding grading procedures can be found at acs-k12.org.
HONORS/ADVANCED CLASS
Honors courses are designed to exceed the content standards and are intended for college-bound students. While all courses taught in ACS schools are expected to be rigorous, honors courses will have increased emphasis on the following components:
● Regularly scheduled writing assignments across the curriculum
● Extended reading opportunities within the content area
● Research-based writing opportunities within the content area
● Real-world skill development
● Understanding of the culture, values, and history of the discipline
● Opportunities for problem solving, critical analysis, and application
Honors/Advanced courses are noted in the course description.
PARENT PORTAL AND STUDENT ACCOUNTS (PowerSchool)
PowerSchool is the Student Information System (database) used by Athens City Schools. Parents and students use PowerSchool to access grades throughout the year. Parents and students will receive information regarding accessing student records online at the beginning of the school year.
SCHEDULE CHANGES
To provide the greatest probability for students to receive requested courses, students are given an opportunity to review the AMS Curriculum Guide and complete a Student Registration Form. From there, a master schedule is constructed, and teachers are hired to ensure that what was requested would be received. Knowing that not every course request can be honored due to conflicts in the student’s schedule, the following procedure provides the greatest potential for requests to be honored. Student registration forms indicate a commitment to completion of the course requested. All 6th Grade students will take math, science, social science, English, and PE each year. All 7th and 8th-grade
students will take math, science, social science, English, and one semester of PE each year Once a schedule is assigned, students commit to course completion as defined in the student schedule Schedule changes should be requested prior to the first day of school No schedule change requests will be accepted after the start of the school year The principal may approve course changes due to extenuating circumstances
SCHEDULE CORRECTIONS
Schedule corrections will be made and only when approved by the following criteria: duplication of courses, courses out of sequence, or Sports PE/Band, etc to be entered due to auditions
SCHOOLOGY
Schoology is an online Learning Management System (LMS) used by Athens City Schools to deliver course content to students in grades K-12. Athens Middle School uses Schoology for both traditional and remote classes as well as any eLearning days that are taken or required during the course of the school year. Learn more about Schoology at acs-k12.org.
PROBLEM-SOLVING TEAM (PST)
The Problem-Solving Team (PST) is a school-based problem-solving support group. Team members discuss issues related to the specific needs of students and offer teachers assistance in resolving problems. The team is composed of regular education teachers, administrators, counselors, and other individuals as needed. Outcomes of a team meeting may include curriculum strategies and intervention, alternative instructional strategies, behavioral management plans, crisis intervention, conflict resolution, conferences with interested parties, or referrals for additional evaluation.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How are grades reported?
Grades are reported to parents and students in a variety of ways. Up-to-date grade information is available through PowerSchool Additionally, report cards are sent home at the end of every 9-week grading term
Is there a supply list?
A grade-level supply list will be released prior to the end of the school year so that parents will be able to purchase items prior to the first day of school It will be available on the school website and in the local stores
What is the difference between regular courses and Honors courses?
Honors courses are designed to exceed the content standards and are intended for college-bound students While all courses taught in ACS schools are expected to be rigorous, honors courses will have increased emphasis on the following components:
● Regularly scheduled writing assignments across the curriculum
● Extended reading opportunities within the content area
● Research-based writing opportunities within the content area
● Real-world skill development
● Understanding of the culture, values, and history of the discipline
● Opportunities for problem solving, critical analysis, and application
Honors/Advanced courses are noted in the course description Enrollment in an honors course requires careful consideration and input from multiple criteria and a variety of data sources, including, but not limited to reading and writing ability, ACAP reading and math scores, teacher recommendation, approval of a guidance counselor, and parental input
Are all students required to take P.E. in middle school?
Yes. Students are required to take at least one semester of P.E.
What determines a student’s grade level?
Grade level is determined by the number of core classes successfully passed.
What happens if a student fails a class?
For students who are not successful during the regular school year and must repeat a class, credit recovery may be a necessity in the Summer Session.
Athens Middle School Course Offerings
ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
GRADE 6 ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Course Code 01034G0606
In Grade 6, students think abstractly, examine and challenge the ideas of others, and expand their ability to express and justify their own points of view The application of foundational skills and knowledge to read and respond to various types of literature from critical, digital, language, research, and vocabulary literacies build their knowledge base, strengthen existing abilities through reading, listening, writing, and speaking Students move from concrete to abstract thinking, examine and challenge the ideas of others, and expand their ability to express and justify their own points of view To acknowledge this transition in thinking, standards in the middle grades also transition from the earlier grades’ explicit focus on building foundational literacy skills (with concurrent emphasis on reading and writing) to the application of foundational skills and knowledge to read and respond to various types of literature
GRADE 6 HONORS ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Course Code 01037HPK06
The 6th-grade Honors English/Language Arts course provides a challenging learning atmosphere that encourages students to engage more autonomously in critical thinking, both in the classroom and at home This course will further develop students' literacy skills and their application of fundamental literacy competencies: reading techniques, analytical thinking, vocabulary development, research skills, and effective writing.
GRADE 7 ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Course Code 01035G0707
In Grade 7, students will focus on building foundational literacy skills and knowledge to read and respond to various types of literature, build their knowledge base, and strengthen existing abilities Students’ ability to think abstractly increases. Seventh graders continue to examine and challenge the ideas of others and expand their ability to express and justify their own points of view through reading, listening, writing, and speaking.
GRADE 7 HONORS ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Course Code 01035H0707
The 7th-grade Honors Language Arts program fosters a learning environment that encourages students to engage in independent critical thinking, both in class and at home It is also aligned with the Alabama Course of Study Standards for 7th grade. This course aids students in transitioning from a focus on foundational literacy skills to the practical application of those skills, enabling them to read and respond effectively to different types of literature
GRADE 8 ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Course Code 01036G0808
In Grade 8, students will analyze sources of reading that span all subject areas, cultures, and formats as students begin to recognize the interconnectedness of their world. These texts also become sources for research. Students in the middle level begin to discern the validity and credibility of information, as well as the importance of employing that discernment in today’s world Students also learn the importance of citing their sources to acknowledge the work of other academics and to build their own credibility as researchers and writers Writing in the middle grades becomes more rigorous as the emphasis on organization and textual evidence becomes a daily requirement Writing is fostered and sustained by both shorter pieces of writing and longer, more challenging works Students hone their vocabulary literacy by paying attention to connotative meanings, understanding their audience, and their academic and domain-specific vocabulary. They also continue to develop their language and grammar skills as they review foundational knowledge and build upon it with new concepts in their writing through reading, listening, writing, and speaking
GRADE 8 HONORS ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS
Course Code 01036H0808
The 8th-grade Honors English/Language Arts course creates a challenging environment for the advanced students. Students are encouraged to think critically and work more independently, both in the classroom and at home Grounded in the Alabama Course of Study for English Language Arts, this curriculum focuses on the intensive analysis of diverse texts, the establishment of connections through reading various literary works, the engagement in the writing process across multiple formats, and the cultivation of digital citizenship skills
Athens Middle School Course Offerings
MATHEMATICS
MATH PATHWAY
ACCELERATED MATH In this pathway, students meet all the standards of Grade 7, Grade 8, and Algebra 1 with probability within the two accelerated courses, thus merging all the standards from three years of mathematics into two years Clearly, this pathway will be challenging and should be reserved for students in Grade 7 who are mathematically inclined and show particular motivation and interest in mathematics Students must successfully complete Grade 7 Accelerated to enroll in Grade 8 Accelerated Students who successfully complete this pathway in Grades 7 and 8 will accelerate into Algebra II with Statistics after completing Geometry with Data Analysis in Grade 9 Additionally, students who do not complete the accelerated pathway in middle school can later take Geometry with Data Analysis and Algebra I with Probability concurrently in Grade 9 to re-enter the accelerated track.
GRADE 6 MATHEMATICS
Course Code 02036G0606 02036G0606
Students will understand ratio concepts and use ratio reasoning to solve problems; apply and extend previous understanding of multiplication and division to divide fractions by fractions; compute fluently with multi-digit numbers and find common factors and multiples; apply and extend previous understanding of numbers to the system of rational numbers; apply and extend previous understanding of arithmetic to algebraic expressions; reason about and solve one-variable equations and inequalities; represent and analyze quantitative relationships between dependent and independent variables; solve real-world and mathematical problems involving area, surface area, and volume; develop understanding of statistical variability; and summarize and describe distribution
GRADE 6 ACCELERATED MATHEMATICS
Course Code 02999HPK06
Accelerated Math 6 is aligned with the Alabama Course of Study Standards for sixth grade and offers a more comprehensive exploration of the subject This course is intended for students aiming to advance to Accelerated Math 7 Topics covered will include operations and algebra, ratios and rates, rational numbers, expressions and equations, geometric reasoning, and statistics
GRADE 7 MATHEMATICS
Course Code 02037G0707
Students will analyze proportional relationships and use them to solve real-world and mathematical problems; apply and extend previous understandings of operations with fractions to add, subtract, multiply, and divide rational numbers; use properties of operations to generate equivalent expressions; solve real-life and mathematical problems using numerical and algebraic expressions and equations; draw, construct, and describe geometrical figures and describe the relationship between them; solve real-life and mathematical problems involving angle measure, area, surface area, and volume; use random sampling to draw inferences about a population; draw informal comparative inferences about two populations; and investigate chance processes and develop, use, and evaluate probability models.
GRADE 7 ACCELERATED MATHEMATICS
Course Code 02037H0707
The Grade 7 Accelerated Mathematics course has been carefully aligned and designed for middle school students who show particular motivation and interest in mathematics Grade 7 Accelerated Mathematics includes standards from Grade 7 Mathematics and incorporates standards from Grade 8 Mathematics and Algebra I with Probability. Students who complete this class are eligible to enroll in Grade 8 Accelerated Mathematics or Grade 8 Mathematics. Students who complete both Grade 7 Accelerated Mathematics and Grade 8 Accelerated Mathematics are considered to have met the requirements of and may opt to omit the Algebra I with Probability course in their high school mathematics progression to enroll in additional mathematics courses after completing the required Algebra II with Statistics course
GRADE 8 MATHEMATICS
Course Code 02038G0808
Students will know that there are numbers that are not rational, and approximate them by rational numbers; work with radicals and integer exponents; understand the connections among proportional relationships, lines, and linear equations; analyze and solve linear equations and pairs of simultaneous linear equations; define, evaluate, and compare functions; use functions to model relationships between quantities; understand congruence and similarity using physical models, transparencies, or geometry software; understand and apply the Pythagorean Theorem; solve real-world and mathematical problems involving volume of cylinders, cones, and spheres; and investigate patterns of association in bivariate data.
GRADE 8 ACCELERATED MATHEMATICS
Course Code 02038H0808
The Grade 8 Accelerated course has been carefully aligned and designed for middle school students who have completed the Grade 7 Accelerated course and show particular motivation and interest in mathematics Grade 8 Accelerated contains four content areas: Number Systems and Operations; Algebra and Functions; Data Analysis, Statistics, and Probability; and Geometry and Measurement. The algebra focus is on quadratic relationships Students who successfully complete this course will be prepared to enter Geometry with Data Analysis in Grade 9 and then accelerate directly into Algebra II with Statistics in Grade 10, thus providing them with an opportunity to take additional, specialized mathematics coursework, such as AP Calculus or AP Statistics, in Grades 11 and 12
Athens Middle School Course Offerings
Science
GRADE 6 EARTH & SPACE SCIENCE
Course Code 03010G0606
Earth and Space Science progression from earlier grades; progression of knowledge and understanding through the integration of science and engineering practices along with crosscutting concepts of the core ideas to include the universe and its grand scale in both time and space, processes that drive Earth's conditions and its continual change over time, society's interactions with the planet
GRADE 6 HONORS EARTH & SPACE SCIENCE
Course Code 03999HPK06
Students will explore the science of Earth and Space in great depth and at a high level of academic rigor The Honors Science course is designed with the addition of independent project-based learning activities In this course, students will be encouraged to make scientific inquiries regarding Earth and Space Science through the use of labs and the reading of scientific texts, and then relate this learning to the world around them Areas of study should include weather and climate, geologic processes, human impact on the environment, the composition of Earth’s core, objects of the solar system, and changes in human population based on Earth’s systems Students will utilize laboratory experiments and independent inquiry activities to deepen their understanding of the concepts about which they are reading and studying Laboratory investigations are supported by the Alabama Math Science and Technology Initiative that fosters learning through STEM education
GRADE 7 LIFE SCIENCE
Course Code 03237G0707
Life Science progression of knowledge and understanding from earlier grades of the core ideas to include the structure and function of cells and their connections to organs and organ systems; the interactions between living organisms and between biotic and abiotic factors; explanations of genetic variations, results of genetic mutations, and impacts of genetic technologies; and the patterns of change in populations of organisms over a long period of time; the relationship between natural selection; and the reproduction and survival of a population with the integration of science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts from the science framework
GRADE 7 HONORS LIFE SCIENCE
Course Code 03237H0707
We will explore the concepts of life science in great depth and at a high level of academic rigor The Honors Science course is designed with the addition of independent project-based learning activities The focus of this course prepares students for biology and other advanced science courses to be taken in high school Students will conduct laboratory experiments for a deeper understanding of the concepts of life science and will have multiple opportunities to apply their knowledge Laboratory investigations are supported by the Alabama Math Science and Technology Initiative, which fosters learning through STEM education Therefore, it is recommended that students who enroll in this course are able to complete projects independently, conduct experiments with their peers, and read & analyze articles and text to support their learning
GRADE 8 PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Course Code 03011G0808
Physical Science progression of knowledge and understanding from earlier grades of the core ideas to include the composition and properties of matter; examining forces and predicting and developing explanations for changes in motion; the conservation of energy, energy transformations, and applications of energy to everyday life; and types and properties of waves and the use of waves in communication devices with the integration of science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts from the science framework
GRADE 8 HONORS PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Course Code 03011H0808
Students will explore the concepts of physical science in great depth and at a high level of academic rigor. The Honors Science course is designed to enhance course content with the addition of independent project-based learning activities. Emphasizing critical thinking and problem-solving, the course integrates experiments, modeling, and real-world applications to deepen scientific literacy. Students will be expected to read and analyze scientific texts and to apply this information to labs, discussion, writing, and analysis. Designed to meet Alabama’s Science Standards, this course equips students with the skills and knowledge necessary for success in high school science courses and beyond Laboratory investigations are supported by the Alabama Math Science and Technology Initiative that fosters learning through STEM education
Athens Middle School Course Offerings
Social Studies
GRADE 6 SOCIAL STUDIES: MAKING A NEW NATION: UNITED STATES BEGINNINGS AND CIVIC FOUNDATIONS
Course Code 04436G0606
This course provides an in-depth study of the formation of the United States and its civic foundations Students investigate the fundamental values and principles of the events, philosophies, and individuals that shaped the United States of America Incorporating colonization and the American Revolution, standards address the United States’ government, civic responsibilities, and individual rights and freedoms Standards provide opportunities to apply civic knowledge to learning experiences that foster increased personal responsibility and civic engagement
GRADE 7 WORLD HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY: GEOGRAPHIC PRINCIPLES AND ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS
Course Code 04161G0707
This course offers a comprehensive overview of ancient civilizations and cultures analyzed through various disciplines, including civics and economics. By studying geography, students enhance their understanding of global connections and diverse cultures, which fosters critical thinking and responsible citizenship Key topics include the Five Themes of Geography, Pre-History and the Neolithic Revolution, River Valley Civilizations, early civilizations in the Americas and Africa, classical societies such as Greece, and the Roman World
GRADE 8 WORLD HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY: MIDDLE AGES TO THE ENLIGHTENMENT
Course Code 04051G0808
This course explores the historical period from the fall of the Western Roman Empire to the Enlightenment, emphasizing the early modern world through various disciplinary perspectives, including civics and economics The course aims to develop students' analytical skills through the study of key topics such as the effects of the Fall of Rome, medieval societies across Asia, Africa, and Europe, the Renaissance and Reformation, the Age of Exploration and colonization of the Americas, the rise of absolutism, and the Enlightenment and Scientific Revolution
Athens Middle School Course Offerings
General Electives
Grade 7 & 8 SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS (Eagle Tech)
Course Code 11104X10SP (YEAR COURSE)
This course provides opportunities for students to create, design, and produce the school’s yearbook; learn publishing tools; utilize publishing skills; refine revising/editing skills; work under established deadlines; and create using various software Requirements for class membership are as follows: fill out an application, be interviewed by the adviser, obtain three recommendations (one of which is the present English teacher), and possess a B or better in English Fee: $10
GRADE 6 EXPLORING THE WORLD OF STEM
Course Code 23993X06ES (SEMESTER COURSE)
In this introductory STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) course, students will engage in hands-on experiments, solve real-world problems, and learn to think critically and collaboratively They will explore various scientific concepts, such as the laws of motion and the principles of energy, while also diving into the world of technology by working with coding and robotics Engineering challenges will inspire students to design and build their own projects, fostering innovation and teamwork. Finally, they will learn about the importance of mathematics in everyday life and how it connects to other STEM fields. This course aims to ignite students' passion for STEM and equip them with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly technological world
GRADE 6 SPEECH & DEBATE
Course Code 23993X06SD (SEMESTER COURSE)
Students will participate in activities that prepare them to speak effectively. Students will gain confidence, poise, and self-esteem This course will include practice in vocal skills, organization, persuasion, and argument Activities may include informative and persuasive speeches, readings from literature, and an introduction to debate
GRADE 6 METEOROLOGY
Course Code 22994X1001
This introductory meteorology elective provides students with a foundation for understanding weather and Earth’s atmosphere Students will explore how weather forms, learn to identify common weather patterns, and investigate topics such as clouds, temperature, wind, precipitation, and severe weather Through hands-on activities, simple experiments, data collection, and real-world examples, students will practice observing, predicting, and explaining weather conditions This course builds scientific curiosity, strengthens critical thinking skills, and helps students connect daily weather experiences to basic atmospheric science
GRADE 8 STUDENT AIDE
Course Code 22051X10SA (SEMESTER COURSE)
Students will serve Athens Middle School and the faculty through an aide internship program housed in the media center Teachers Approval Via Application Process
GRADE 7 or 8 COMPUTER SCIENCE DISCOVERIES
Course Code 10012G0608 (SEMESTER COURSE)
The course takes a wide lens on computer science by covering topics such as programming, physical computing, HTML/CSS, and data. Students are empowered to create authentic artifacts and engage with CS as a medium for creativity, communication, problem-solving, and fun
GRADE 8 DIGITAL PUBLISHING TOOLS
Course Code 11153G0608
Students will learn the fundamental concepts of word processing, spreadsheets, and presentation software through a variety of software applications. The students will explore basic design concepts that will be utilized when creating a personalized digital portfolio that showcases their academic work. Students will increase their computer competency and keyboarding skills for composing and creatively expressing ideas digitally Digital citizenship concepts and skills will be taught throughout the class
GRADE 8 CAREER EXPLORATIONS
Course Code 23993X0608CT (SEMESTER COURSE)
Students will discover various career paths, the skills needed to succeed in them, and the education required for the chosen career. Through engaging activities, projects, and discussions, students will learn about different professions, understand the importance of education and training, and explore their own interests and strengths They will have opportunities to meet guest speakers from various fields, participate in hands-on activities, explore the financial planning involved, and create a personal career plan that reflects their aspirations By the end of the course, students will gain valuable insights into the world of work, helping them make informed decisions about their future educational and career choices.
GRADE 7/8 DESIGN AND MODELING (PLTW)
Course Code 21007G0708 (SEMESTER COURSE)
A course that uses solid modeling as part of the design process Students learn sketching techniques; use descriptive geometry as a component of design, measurement, and computer modeling; develop ideas, create models, test and evaluate design ideas, and communicate solutions There is no fee for Design and Modeling; however, students may join the AMS Technology Student Association with a $20 fee.
GRADE 7/8 AUTOMATION AND ROBOTICS (PLTW)
Course Code 21009G0708 (SEMESTER COURSE)
A course that provides opportunities for students to trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics Emphasis is placed on mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems Students use the VEX Robotics® platform to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms. Automation and Robotics require a $20 membership fee to the AMS Technology Student Association. This fee covers both the state and national dues for this Career Tech Student Organization Design and Modeling is a prerequisite.
GRADE 8 MEDICAL DETECTIVES (PLTW)
Course Code 14001G0608 (SEMESTER COURSE)
Medical Detectives (MD) explores the biomedical sciences through hands-on projects and labs that require students to solve a variety of medical mysteries. Students investigate medical careers, vital signs, diagnosis, and treatment of diseases, as well as human body systems such as the nervous system. Genetic testing for hereditary diseases and DNA crime scene analysis put the students in the place of real-life medical detectives There is no fee for Medical Detectives; however, students may join the AMS Technology Student Association with a $20 fee
Athens Middle School Course Offerings
Fine Arts Electives
GRADE 6 MIDDLE SCHOOL BEGINNER BAND - LEVEL I
Course Code 05102G1001 (YEAR COURSE)
Beginner Band offers instruction on woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments with a focus on the skills necessary for long-term student success Fundamentals stressed include proper posture and playing position, development of characteristic tone quality, and training in music literacy The school is able to provide many of the larger and/or more expensive instruments For the beginner band, these instruments include euphonium and tuba Other instruments (i e flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and percussion) should be provided for the student by their parents if possible. The beginner band performs in the Winter and Spring Concerts
GRADE 6 MIDDLE SCHOOL INTERMEDIATE BAND - LEVEL II
Course Code 05102G1002 (YEAR COURSE)
Grade 6 Intermediate Band is for students who already have an understanding of basic music reading, instrument assembly, and maintenance, correct playing position, and sound tone production. Instruction offers a continued focus on the refinement of tone quality, technique, aural skills, and music literacy. Similarly, select students may have the opportunity to transition to instruments that may not have been offered in the beginner band class These include many of the larger and/or more expensive instruments, which can be provided by the school including the oboe, bassoon, French horn, euphonium, and tuba Otherwise, students and their families are encouraged to provide their own instruments This band meets daily as two separate classes (brass/woodwinds and percussion) that combine for performances This group will perform in the Winter and Spring Band Concerts and for our state’s music performance assessment (MPA). FEE: $25
Prerequisite: Completion of Level I Band.
GRADE 7/8 MIDDLE SCHOOL BEGINNER BAND - LEVEL I
Course Code 05102G10MB (YEAR COURSE)
Grade 7/8 Beginner Band offers instruction on woodwind, brass, and percussion instruments with a focus on the skills necessary for long-term student success Fundamentals stressed include proper posture and playing position, development of characteristic tone quality, and training in music literacy. The school is able to provide many of the larger and/or more expensive instruments For the beginner band, these instruments include euphonium and tuba Other instruments (i e flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, and percussion) should be provided for the student by their parents if possible The beginner band performs in the Winter and Spring Concerts
GRADE 7/8 MIDDLE SCHOOL INTERMEDIATE BAND - LEVEL II
Course Code 05102G10BD (YEAR COURSE)
Grade 7/8 Intermediate Band is for students who already have an understanding of basic music reading, instrument assembly, and maintenance, correct playing position, and sound tone production. Instruction offers a continued focus on the refinement of tone quality, technique, aural skills, and music literacy. Similarly, select students may have the opportunity to transition to instruments that may not have been offered in the beginner band class These include many of the larger and/or more expensive instruments, which can be provided by the school including the oboe, bassoon, French horn, euphonium, and tuba Otherwise, students and their families
are encouraged to provide their own instruments. This band meets daily as two separate classes (brass/woodwinds and percussion) that combine for performances This group will perform in the Winter and Spring Band Concerts and for our state’s music performance assessment (MPA) FEE: $25
Prerequisite: Completion of Level I Band.
Grade 8 MIDDLE SCHOOL CONCERT BAND - LEVEL III
Course Code 05102G1003 (YEAR COURSE)
The Grade 8 Concert Band is composed of students on all of the major woodwind and brass instruments as well as student percussionists Instruction concentrates on advanced technical and expressive skills in an ensemble-focused setting Advanced reading, musicianship, and student responsibility are required This band meets daily as two separate classes (brass/woodwinds and percussion) that combine for performances This group will perform in the Winter and Spring Concerts and for our state’s music performance assessment (MPA) FEE: $25 Prerequisite: Completion of Level II Band
GRADE 6 MUSIC
Course Code 05149G10V1 (SEMESTER COURSE)
This is a novice level, designed for beginning music students to explore popular music from a wide variety of cultures and periods through academic study and performance By creating, performing, and responding, students will develop basic vocal skills, choreography movement, and sight-reading techniques Allowing musical experiences to other cultures and disciplines within and outside of the arts, music history, and theory are embedded so students may connect these popular vocal style experiences to historical relevance, contemporary issues, and self-reflection
GRADE 7/8 VOCAL CHORAL MUSIC- INTERMEDIATE
Course Code 05149G10V2 (YEAR COURSE)
This course is designed for students with at least one year of experience to continue to explore popular music from a wide variety of cultures and periods through academic study and performance. By creating, performing, and responding, students will continue to develop basic vocal skills, choreography movement, and sight-reading techniques Allowing musical experiences to other cultures and disciplines within and outside of the arts, music history, and theory are embedded so students may connect these popular vocal style experiences to historical relevance, contemporary issues, and self-reflection
GRADE 7/8 VOCAL CHOIR MUSIC - ADVANCED
Course Code 05149G10V3 (YEAR COURSE)
This is a course, proficient level, designed for students to increase their artistry by exploring popular music from a wide variety of cultures and periods through academic study and performance By creating, performing, and responding, students will continue to develop vocal skills, choreography movement, and sight-reading techniques Allowing musical experiences to other cultures and disciplines within and outside of the arts, music history, and theory are embedded so students may connect these popular vocal style experiences to historical relevance, contemporary issues, and self-reflection.
GRADE 7 VISUAL ARTS SURVEY
Course Code 23993X06V2 (SEMESTER COURSE)
The art program is designed to allow students to explore various media in the art curriculum The curriculum is designed in a progressive manner so that students build their skills and knowledge as they go through middle school and enter high school. The students explore a wide range of topics and media throughout the year. Design, drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, and clay comprise the activities in which the students will be involved Art Shows, contests, Art History, and field trips are designed to expose the students' talents and build their self-esteem while appreciating the work of their peers and artists from around the world FEE: $10
GRADE 8 3D ART & SCULPTING
Course Code 05188G083
Through creating, producing, and responding, students will assess and connect the elements of art and principles of design by utilizing a variety of traditional media, digital media, and multimedia projects Independent work and investigation through projects of personal interest will allow students to demonstrate original works that communicate complex interpretations Students will explore techniques, styles, media, methods, and procedures for creating works of visual arts Students will demonstrate higher technical proficiency while still developing self-confidence and refining motor skills Students will develop and apply criteria to works of art to make connections and understand historical relevance, contemporary issues, and self-reflection to their work and the work of others that relate to global interest and social commentary with a personal voice This course is taught by a certified visual arts teacher FEE: $10
GRADE 7 INTRODUCTION TO FOREIGN CULTURE
Course Code 23993X06FC (SEMESTER COURSE)
7th-grade students will explore and celebrate cultural diversity by learning about each other, the world, and themselves. They will gain insight into the unique experiences and traditions that shape local and global communities. Students will connect with cultures around the world and the U.S., deepening their understanding of diverse communities. This course will introduce students to the power of community service and will help students develop a meaningful understanding of social responsibility This hands-on approach encourages empathy, critical thinking, and active engagement preparing students to be thoughtful, global citizens
GRADE 8 SURVEY OF THE SPANISH LANGUAGE
Course Code 24050G0808
This survey course of the Spanish language will involve listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills involving familiar topics This course will introduce students to the fundamentals of the Spanish language Students will understand and respond to simple expressions They will speak and write using learned vocabulary in this introduction to the Spanish language and culture
Athens Middle School Course Offerings
Physical Education Courses
GRADE 6 PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Course Code 08036G0606 (YEAR COURSE)
This elective is for all 6th-grade students and will focus on the acquisition of physical skills that are integrated into games and sports
GRADE 7/8 PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Course Code 08037G0708 (SEMESTER COURSE)
This elective is for all 7th- and 8th-grade students and will focus on the acquisition of physical skills integrated into games and sports
GRADE 7/8 PHYSICAL EDUCATION/ WEIGHT TRAINING
Course Code for Male WT 08037G07WM (YEAR COURSE)
Course Code for Female WT 08037G07WF (YEAR COURSE)
This elective is for athletes in grades 7 & 8 with an emphasis on proper strength and conditioning techniques, cardio fitness, and physical core maintenance Prerequisite- athletic roster and coach's signature.
GRADE 7/8 CHEER PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Course Code for 08037G07CH (YEAR COURSE)
This elective is for cheer athletes in grades 7 & 8 with emphasis on proper strength and conditioning techniques, cardio fitness, and physical core maintenance This class will serve as their physical education elective FEE: TDB Prerequisite- athletic roster and coach signature
Athens Middle School Course Offerings
Special Services - Extended Standards Pathway
For students served by Individual Education Plans (IEP) pursuing the Extended Standards Pathway
Number
01034X0606
01035X0707
01036X0808
01046X0606
01047X0707
01048X0808
02036X0606
02037X0707
02038X0808
03236X0606
03237X0707
03238X0808
04436X0606
04437X0707
04438X0808
19257X1001
Course
AAS: English Language Arts 6
AAS: English Language Arts 7
AAS: English Language Arts 8
AAS: Reading 6
AAS: Reading 7
AAS: Reading 8
AAS: Mathematics 6
AAS: Mathematics 7
AAS: Mathematics 8
AAS: Science 6
AAS: Science 7
AAS: Science 8
AAS: Social Studies 6
AAS: Social Studies 7
AAS: Social Studies 8
AAS: Life Skills
The courses above are for students with significant cognitive disabilities earning core credit through Alternate Achievement Standards (AAS), which are aligned with the Alabama Course of Study, and being assessed through the Alabama Alternative Assessment (AAA).
