Course Description Guide

Language Arts

This course emphasizes the fundamental language skills of reading, writing, speaking, listening, thinking, viewing and presenting. Our balanced literacy approach to teaching reading and writing allows students multiple opportunities to practice their language skills with a variety of texts and genres. Through the Reading Workshop Model, students will learn and practice comprehension and analysis of both fiction and non-fiction texts and engage in active questioning and discussion. Through the Writing Workshop Model, students will participate in the writing process in order to learn and practice critical writing skills including embedded grammar and vocabulary instruction. In Language Arts, students will read and write in a variety of styles, to a variety of audiences, and for a variety of purposes.

Math

The mathematics program at Liberty Middle School focuses on preparing students to be able to do the following:

learn to enjoy and value mathematics
become confident in their abilities to learn mathematics
become mathematical problem-solvers
learn to reason and communicate mathematically
make connections between mathematics and life

Math 6

As students transition to middle school mathematics, they will build on their understanding of numbers from elementary school and begin to learn the abstract components of mathematics. In sixth grade, math content will focus on four critical areas, including (1) connecting ratio and rate to whole number multiplication and division and using concepts of ratio and rate to solve problems; (2) finishing understanding of division of fractions and extending the notion of numbers to the system of rational numbers, which includes negative numbers; (3) writing, interpreting, and using expressions and equations; and (4) developing understanding of statistical thinking. This work will lay the foundation for the focus on proportional relationships in seventh grade.

Accelerated Math 6

Accelerated Math 6 is part of a two-year compacted course sequence that provides three years of mathematics content in two years, preparing students for Algebra 1 in eighth grade. Students study all topics from Math 6 (see Math 6 course description), extending understanding of operations with rational numbers, working with expressions and linear equations and extending the concepts of ratio and rate from Math 6 to include proportional relationships from Math 7. The compacted nature of the course will require students to be comfortable and proficient learning math at an accelerated pace. Placement in this class will be determined using a body of evidence to support students’ readiness for success in this course.

Math 7

Seventh grade students will build on their work with rational numbers and algebraic thinking from sixth grade as they move into deeper and more complex math concepts. Math content will focus on four critical areas, including (1) developing understanding of and application of proportional relationships; (2) developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with expressions and linear equations; (3) solving problems involving geometric ideas of scale, area, surface area and volume with two- and three-dimensional shapes; and (4) drawing inferences about populations based on samples. This work will lay the foundation for the algebraic work with linear functions studied in eighth grade.

Accelerated Math 7

Accelerated Math 7 is the second half of a two-year compacted course sequence that provides three years of mathematics content in two years. Students who have successfully completed Accelerated Math 6 will complete Accelerated Math 7 in order to be prepared for Algebra 1 in eighth grade. Students will complete their study of Math 7 topics (see Math 7 course description) not covered in Accelerated Math 6, including working with expressions and linear equations and the geometric study of two-and three-dimensional shapes. These concepts will be extended to the Math 8 topics of linear equations and the Pythagorean Theorem, respectively. The full content of Math 8 (see Math 8 course descriptions) will be studied in this course. The compacted nature of the course will require students to be comfortable and proficient learning math at an accelerated pace.

Math 8

In 8th grade, students begin a serious study of algebra with the learning of linear functions. With their study of number relatively complete, the focus shifts to the abstract application of their understanding of arithmetic. This content will focus on three critical areas, including (1) formulating and reasoning about expressions and equations, including modeling bivariate data with a linear equation, solving linear equations, and working with systems of linear equations; (2) developing and understanding the concept of a function, and using functions to describe quantitative relationships; and (3) analyzing two-and three-dimensional space and figures using distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem. This work will lay the foundation for success in a high school Algebra I course.

Algebra I

Algebra I provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students to succeed in advanced courses. In particular, the instructional program in this course provides for the use of algebraic skills in a wide range of problem-solving situations. Topics include: operations with real numbers, systems of linear equations and inequalities, relations and functions, polynomials, algebraic fractions, nonlinear equations, and statistics and probability. The course guides students in the development of critical thinking skills and algebraic problem-solving skills which provide the foundation for real world problem solving. This is a fast pace rigorous course. The compacted nature of the course will require students to be comfortable and proficient learning math at an accelerated pace.

Social Studies

Social Studies is guided by the state standards in history, geography, civics, economics, and personal financial literacy. The content focus is the Western Hemisphere in 6th grade, the Eastern Hemisphere in 7th grade, and United States history in 8th grade. Students are engaged in technology, hands-on activities, and authentic assessments. These help history come alive and ensure all students effectively acquire information and skills, including analysis of primary and secondary sources, learning about history from multiple perspectives, and the impact of history on the modern world.

6th Grade

Human and Physical Geography
Origins of Civilization
Latin and South American Civilizations
Conquest of the Americas
Modern Americas

7th Grade

Ancient Civilization
World Belief Systems
Colonization
Modern World
Economics
Human Rights

8th Grade:

Revolution
Constitution
Westward Expansion
Civil War and Reconstruction

Science

At the middle school level, the principle goals in each science classroom are to cultivate scientific habits of mind, develop students’ capability for scientific inquiry, and to teach each student how to reason in a scientific context. As students progress from 6^th through 8^th grade, every science teacher plans rigorous lessons and labs to ensure that students become proficient in the following fundamental scientific practices by the time they reach high school:

• Asking questions and defining problems

• Developing and using models

• Planning and carrying out investigations

• Analyzing and interpreting data

• Using mathematics and computational thinking

• Constructing explanations and designing solutions

• Engaging in argument from evidence

• Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information

Our general curriculum follows the CCSD middle school curriculum, which is aligned with the Colorado State Content Standards.

6th Grade Electives

Band & Orchestra (year-long)

Band (Year Long)

Development of the fundamental instrumental techniques and musical expressions is emphasized and practiced. Students are required to provide their own instrument and method book. Some instruments are available through Liberty for a yearly rental fee. Band instrumentation includes flute, oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion (including bells). Information for rental/purchase of instruments (from retail rental stores) will be given to students at an Instrumental Music night at the beginning of the school year. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year, primarily in the evening hours. Attendance is required for concerts and is included in the grading criteria. 6^th grade Band is beginning/experienced level.

Orchestra (Year Long)

Development of the fundamental instrumental techniques and musical expressions is emphasized and practiced. Stus are required to provide their own instrument and method book. Some instruments are available through Liberty for a yearly fee. Orchestra instrumentation includes violin, viola, cello, and bass. Information for rental/purchase of instruments (from retail rental stores) will be given to students at an Instrumental Music night at the beginning of the school year. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year, primarily in the evening hours. Attendance is required for concerts and is included in the grading criteria. 6^th grade Orchestra is beginning/experienced level.

Art 6 2D (quarter-long)

This course is all about exploring the world of two-dimensional art through a variety of mediums, including drawing, painting, printmaking, and mixed media. You’ll learn how to develop your skills while focusing on the process of creating art—experimenting, problem-solving, and refining your ideas along the way. You will be developing visual literacy through art techniques, composition, and the work of artists from different cultures and time periods, you’ll learn how to see, analyze, and create art in a meaningful way. Whether you’re sketching, layering colors, or designing a print, this class is about the journey of creating, not just the final product. You’ll have the chance to express yourself, build confidence, and explore new ways of thinking through art.

Art 6 3D (quarter-long)

This course focuses on developing skills and techniques in 3D art, with opportunities to incorporate 2D design as a foundation for three-dimensional creations. Students will work with a variety of media to explore form, structure, and spatial relationships while building on their prior artistic knowledge.

Through hands-on projects, students will delve into the artistic process, emphasizing planning, experimentation, and problem-solving to bring their ideas to life in three-dimensional form. They will investigate both contemporary and historical artists, with a focus on those who work in sculpture, installation, and other 3D mediums, to draw inspiration and make meaningful connections to their own work.

By observing, analyzing, and reflecting on diverse works of art, students will expand their visual literacy and develop innovative approaches to creating dynamic 3D artwork. This class encourages creativity and adaptability as students transform their concepts into finished pieces.

Physical Education 6 (quarter-long)

Physical Education at the 6th grade middle level offers students a variety of physical activities through which they will develop positive attitudes toward group interaction, sportsmanship, effort, fair play, cooperation, initiative and an appreciation for the abilities and limitations of self and others.

PE Individual Sports 6 (Quarter Long) Individual Sports promotes a desire for physical fitness, lifetime physical activity, and healthy habits through individual activities, sports, and games. This course enhances the motor, intellectual, and social development of students through physical movement. Students will learn cooperation and sportsmanship through various activities including badminton, pickleball, hiking, basketball skills, volleyball skills, and more. We integrate fitness components and wellness concepts into all activities.

PE Team Sports 6 (Quarter Long) This course enhances the motor, intellectual, and social development of students through physical movement. Students will learn cooperation, team play, and sportsmanship through various activities including soccer, flag football, lacrosse, wiffleball, kickball, volleyball and more . We integrate fitness components and wellness concepts into the activities as well.

STEM 6 (quarter-long)

During this quarter-long course, students will dive into the exciting world of STEM–that’s Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. Students will design, build, and test their own physical and digital creations. Project topics include Engineering, 3D Design, and Coding using tools like 3D printers and Computer-Aided-Design software to bring their ideas to life. From brainstorming to building, this class is all about hands-on projects that let students’ creativity shine.

Theater Arts 6 (quarter-long)

Students will explore an introduction to theatrical concepts and perform in a variety of ways. Stage directions, blocking, movement, and positioning of the actor will be highlighted first. Students will then embody characters through pantomime, gesture, facial expression, and body language. Finally, students will explore storytelling through adaptation, story structure, script writing, rehearsal, memorization, and performance.

A.V.I.D. 6 (quarter-long)

A.V.I.D. (Advancement via Individual Determination) AVID is more than just a class; it is a community of learners that extends beyond the walls of the classroom to support students as they work towards achieving their goals and dreams. AVID teaches students the necessary strategies to be successful in middle school and beyond. The course helps students develop tools to engage in cooperative learning, goal setting, questioning and study skills, writing, note taking, time management, as well as character development.

Spanish Introduction 6 (quarter-long)

This is a quarter-long course designed to introduce students to the Spanish language. Students will learn basic conversational skills as well as basic reading and writing. This class is designed to introduce students to the language as well as the cultures of the people who speak Spanish around the world. Students who successfully complete this course will have the opportunity to continue learning Spanish as 7th graders in Spanish 1A. Enthusiasm and participation are a must to be successful here!

Choir 6 (quarter-long)

This introductory choir course focuses on the fundamentals of ensemble singing. Students will learn proper vocal technique, develop listening skills, and experience the joy of making music as part of a group. Through rehearsing and performing a variety of choral repertoire, students will practice blending their voices, following a conductor, and performing with confidence. The course culminates in a final performance showcasing their growth as a vocal ensemble. No prior musical experience is required.

7th & 8th Grade Electives

Spanish IA (7th grade) (year-long)

This course is equivalent to one semester of high school Spanish and is open to all beginning language students. Emphasis is on listening, reading, speaking, writing, and culture, with homework practice assigned daily. Learning is reinforced through a variety of activities such as playing games, singing, projects, puzzles, and cultural exploration. Spanish classes are formatted in order for the student to immediately utilize the language. Students who successfully complete this course, with teacher approval, may advance to Spanish 1B in 8th grade.

Spanish IB (8th grade) (year-long)

Spanish 1B is a continuation of the first-year course (Spanish 1A). Students will become more fluent in reading, writing, and speaking in Spanish. Students will also improve their listening skills and will learn more about Hispanic culture. Students will enjoy creating dialogues, skits, presentations, and projects in Spanish, and will learn by interacting with their classmates and their teacher. The students should be highly motivated to participate in all class discussions and activities. Successful completion of Spanish 1A in 7th grade and 1B in 8th grade will allow the students to enter Spanish 2 at the high school.

Choir Select (7th and 8th grades) (year-long)

This advanced, year-long choir course is designed for dedicated singers who demonstrate strong vocal ability and musicianship. Students will develop advanced vocal technique, music literacy, and sight-reading skills while rehearsing challenging choral repertoire in multiple parts.

Students will perform at various venues across the Cherry Creek District and have the opportunity to audition for the Colorado All-State Choir and Cherry Creek District Honor Choir. The course emphasizes musical excellence, ensemble discipline, and leadership. Students should be committed to consistent practice and contributing positively to the choral community.

Band (7th and 8th grades) (year-long)

Development of the fundamental instrumental techniques and musical expressions is emphasized and practiced. Students are required to provide their own instrument and method book. (Some larger instruments are available through Liberty for a yearly fee.) Band instrumentation includes flute, oboe, clarinet, bass clarinet, alto saxophone, tenor saxophone, baritone saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, and percussion (including bells). Information for rental/purchase of instruments will be given to students at an Instrumental Music night at the beginning of the school year. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year, primarily in the evening hours. Attendance is required for concerts and is included in the grading criteria.

Orchestra (7th and 8th grades) (year-long)

Development of the fundamental instrumental techniques and musical expressions is emphasized and practiced. Students are required to provide their own instrument and method book. (Some larger instruments are available through Liberty for a yearly fee.) Orchestra instrumentation includes violin, viola, cello, and bass. Information for rental/purchase of instruments will be given to students at an Instrumental Music night at the beginning of the school year. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year, primarily in the evening hours. Attendance is required for concerts and is included in the grading criteria.

A.V.I.D. (7th and 8th grades) (year-long)

A.V.I.D. (Advancement via Individual Determination) (Year Long)

AVID is more than just a class; it is a family community of learners that extends beyond the walls of the classroom to support students as they work towards achieving their goals and dreams. AVID is for students with a desire and determination to challenge themselves to reach their full potential. It teaches students the necessary strategies to be successful in middle school and high school, with the ultimate focus of students being ready for their future, whether that be college or career. In this course, students will have the opportunity to participate in field trips to colleges and career exploration activities, in order to help them plan for the future. In addition, the course helps students develop tools to engage in cooperative learning, goal setting, questioning and study skills, writing, note taking, time management, as well as character development. The course also teaches students test taking strategies, how to manage stress, and how to work towards their goals. AVID students are expected to take ownership of their learning, ask questions to deepen their understanding, and be willing to work hard.

Art 2D (7th and 8th grades) (semester-long)

Art 3D (7th and 8th grades) (semester-long)

This semester-long course immerses students in the world of three-dimensional art, allowing them to explore form, structure, and spatial relationships through a variety of media and techniques. With an emphasis on 3D design, students will create sculptures, reliefs, and other dimensional works while incorporating elements of 2D design to support their creative processes.

Students will study contemporary and historical artists who work in sculpture, installation, and other 3D mediums to inspire their own artistic growth and connect their work to the broader art world. The course emphasizes the artistic process, encouraging students to plan, experiment, and problem-solve as they transform their ideas into finished, concept-driven projects.

Through observation, analysis, and reflection on diverse works of art, students will strengthen their visual literacy, develop innovative approaches to art-making, and deepen their understanding of the role of 3D art in society. This class fosters creativity, adaptability, and critical thinking as students engage in hands-on exploration and refine their ability to express themselves in three dimensions

Choir (7th and 8th grades) (semester-long)

Choir 7 (Semester Long)

This semester-long choir course develops students' skills in ensemble singing, music literacy, and performance. Students will learn proper vocal technique, musical notation, and sight-reading while rehearsing a diverse choral repertoire. Through collaborative rehearsals and multiple performances, students will grow as individual singers and ensemble members, learning to blend voices, follow a conductor, and perform with confidence and expression. No prior musical experience is required.

Choir 8 (Semester Long)

Health 7 and 8 (semester-long)

Students will learn to develop their physical, emotional and social health and wellness to maintain a healthy life balance. Students will practice skills that will help them learn and practice the power of making good choices including accessing valid information, advocacy, analyzing influences, decision making and self management. Class content includes Interpersonal Communication, Mental Health, Nutrition, First Aid & Safety, Substance Abuse & Prevention, Sexual Health & Relationships.

Physical Education 7 (semester-long)

Physical Education 7 is an engaging and dynamic course designed to foster a love for physical activity while promoting overall health and wellness. This class focuses on building foundational physical skills through participation in a variety of activities, including team sports, individual fitness challenges, and cooperative games. The course aims to build confidence and promote a positive attitude toward maintaining an active lifestyle, while encouraging teamwork and sportsmanship.

Physical Education 8 (semester-long)

Physical Education 8 builds on the skills and knowledge developed in previous years, emphasizing advanced techniques, strategies, and game play in a variety of sports and fitness activities. Students will refine their motor skills and improve overall physical fitness while learning about the principles of lifelong health and wellness. Teamwork and sportsmanship continue to be integral components of this class. This course challenges students to take greater ownership of their fitness goals through self-assessments, fitness goals, and leadership opportunities.

STEM (7th and 8th grades) (semester-long)

STEM 7 (Semester Long)

During this hands-on course, students will think like an engineer and create like a designer. They will actively use the Engineering Design Process to turn their ideas into real-life creations and manufacture new products. From using fabrication tools to CAD software, coding, and 3D printing, students will explore the tech behind today’s innovations, building the foundation for any CTE STEM pathway. Students will wrap up the course by teaming up with classmates to create a final project that shows off everything they learned.

STEM 8 (Semester Long)

During this course, students will use the Engineering Design Process to turn their ideas into real creations! From fabrication tools to CAD software, coding, and 3D printing, they’ll get hands-on experience with the same tech used by real engineers and inventors, building the foundation for any CTE STEM pathway. Students will dive into exciting topics like Engineering, Circuitry, and even Business and Entrepreneurship. Using both physical and digital tools, students will create projects that combine both creativity and technology. By the end of the course, they will bring everything together to create a collaborative final project that shows off their skills. This is the perfect place to start for any students thinking about taking Engineering & Technology courses at Grandview.

Theater 7 and 8 (semester-long)

Theater Arts 7 (Semester Long)

Students will deepen their understanding of theatre with units on improvisation, voice acting, scene work, and storytelling. Students will engage in acting techniques that sharpen their vocal skills, character programing, and embodying a character. Student directors will learn communication skills, leadership skills, and creative skills that enhance performance. Students will create, perform, and critically respond in a variety of ways.

Theater Arts 8 (Semester Long)

Students will create, perform and critically respond to originally scripted stories, improvisational work, and other areas of theatre including a unit on filmmaking. Students will explore Victorian theatre, including the works of William Shakespeare. Students will dive deeper into character creation, including the depth of thought and background a character has, societal pressures, and thematic choices that influence outcomes in performance.

Guitar (7th and 8th grades) (semester-long)

This semester-long course introduces students to the fundamentals of guitar playing. Students will learn basic chord strumming and beginning flatpicking techniques while developing music reading skills and proper playing posture. Through hands-on practice and performance, students will build confidence as musicians and gain the foundation needed for continued guitar study. Guitars are provided by the school, and no prior musical experience is required.