Course Descriptions

Language Arts/History Core

6th Grade

The sixth grade language arts program is aimed at developing students’ skills in writing, grammar usage, literature study and spelling by utilizing both literature and social studies themes throughout the year. As a result, students will learn to make connections between literature and history while applying specific skills. Writing is an integral part of the literature program. It is an ongoing process with topics drawn from both literature and students’ personal experiences. In order to provide students with maximum exposure to the writing process, they will participate in a classroom “Writer’s Workshop.” Through this process, they will develop such skills such as sentence structure, paragraphing, and research skills. In conjunction, a variety of writing styles will be assessed including observational writing, expository writing, poetry, and personal narrative. Within our study of literature, students will be able to recognize the elements of a story, maintain student response logs, participate in literature circles, produce independent book reports, and read core novels. The sixth grade social studies curriculum focuses on early humans and the ancient civilizations of Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, Greece, and Rome. Students analyze the geographic, political, economic, religious and social structure of the early civilizations. Emphasis is placed on the everyday lives, problems and accomplishments of these civilizations. Students analyze the interactions among the various cultures, the enduring contributions and the link, despite time, between the contemporary and ancient worlds. Students will learn through a multitude of methods including class discussions, interactive notebook, note taking, art projects, writing assignments, cooperative group activities and research projects

7th Grade

The core curriculum in the seventh grade is an attempt to combine students’ understanding of world history, geography, and current events with writing, and an appreciation of literature related to the cultures being explored. In keeping with an ongoing seventh grade theme of “Making Connection, Then and Now,” much of the literature and writing will focus on aspects of these cultures in the twentieth century. The social studies curriculum is intended to extend the students’ understanding of geography, and to provide them with a broad chronological overview of the major epochs in the history of humankind. Important ideas, inventions, institutions, migrations of people, and great civilizations will be emphasized. Current events and study skills will also be an important part of the curriculum. The curriculum is designed to develop the students’ skills in oral and written language, and to nurture an appreciation and love of literature. The following subject areas will be stressed: reading for meaning (novels, non-fiction, short stories, plays, poems), writing, grammar, mechanics, spelling, vocabulary, listening, and public speaking. The organization and writing of a research/term paper is a major activity of the year. A few of the other writing genres taught include persuasive essays, biographical sketches, short stories, autobiographical incidents, observation reports and journal writing. Book reports on a variety of categories will be assigned regularly, and outside reading will be required.

8th Grade

One of the main objectives of the eighth grade Core Class is to blend the two disciplines and pursue learning and understanding at multiple levels. The course emphasizes the continuing development of students’ critical thinking, written, oral, and social skills. Students will focus on the study of U.S. History. Students will learn about the people, events, institutions, and ideals that have created our country. Current events will be linked to historical timelines. Students will extend their understanding of the world by reading literature that connects them with events and individuals, both past and present. Exposure to outstanding literature and the pursuit of challenging, relevant reading material is a cornerstone of the eighth grade curriculum. Students are expected to take an active role in class. The sharing of ideas and discussion are a large part of this class. Students will be expected to write on a daily basis and all written work should be completed with correct grammar, mechanics and spelling. Students will work to refine their writing skills, learn to write for purpose and increase their vocabulary usage. They will learn writing skills with special emphasis on three types of writing: cause and effect; evaluation; and critical analysis. Students will also successfully complete the organization and writing of a research based term paper.

 

Mathematics

  • Math 6
    The Math 6 course meets the California State Standards for sixth grade. Students will review fractions, decimals, percents, ratios and geometry. Emphasis will be placed on the algebraic process. New concepts include graphing algebraic equations on the coordinate plane and integers.
  • Math 7
    The Math 7A or Pre-Algebra program provides mathematic instruction and skills students need to solve and graphically represent algebraic equations and inequalities. Integers, decimals, fractions, exponents, and multiple variables will be reinforced in the study of geometry, statistics, data analysis, probability and real world problem solving. Successful completion of pre-algebra will prepare students for an Algebra course.
  • Algebra I
    This course curriculum covers a full year of Algebra One. All Algebra topics, including work with polynomials, factoring quadratics, and graphing linear and quadratic functions, are covered. Successful completion of the course is vital for success in high school physical science courses and all higher-level math courses. A grade of A or B is necessary for placement in a higher-level math courses.
  • Algebra IA
    This course is the first year of a two-year Algebra program. This course curriculum covers solving and graphing linear equations and functions, solving systems of equations, exploring polynomials and factoring quadratic equations. A grade of A or B is necessary for placement in the second year (half) of Algebra One (Algebra IB) at local high schools.

Science

  • 6th Grade (Emphasis in Earth Science)
    Science in the sixth grade introduces students to the world of Earth Science. Throughout the year, they will learn about the disciplines of an Earth scientist as we focus on geology and ecology, and occasionally incorporate “hands-on” activities in our own Miller Creek. Current science events will be presented and discussed in class, as part of our on-going Science in the News project. The scientific process is emphasized through inquiry-based experiences, which focus upon laboratory skills. These skills help students learn to observe, compare, organize, relate, infer and apply information accurately. Using a multi-media computer lab, students will create projects that integrate curriculum and technology. The use of technology, including Internet research skills, is emphasized throughout the year.
  • 7th Grade (Emphasis in Life Science)
    The seventh grade curriculum includes the study of cells, heredity, evolution, plants, animals, and human body systems. Students will be involved in an introductory survey of the animal kingdom with a special look at some of the animals of Marin County. Additionally, students will practice listening skills, learning 8-10 animal sounds. Laboratory activities emphasize observations, comparisons, relationships, inferences, and applications. Seventh grade students are part of a program called STRAW (Students and Teachers Restoring A Watershed). They will use our riparian habitat and its restoration as a focal point in their biology studies.
  • 8th Grade (Emphasis in Physical Science)
    The eighth grade science classes focus on the Physical Sciences - Force, Motion, and Chemistry. The class begins with an introduction to the nature of science where students learn how scientists design and conduct experiments. They are also introduced to science in the “real world” by finding and summarizing science articles from newspapers and magazines. During the first trimester, students are exposed to the laws of force and motion using a variety of labs, demonstrations and interactive lectures. Students may find themselves riding skateboard, shooting bottle rockets, throwing shot puts and replaying their sporting events as they grapple with the new concepts. Past laboratory experiments have included using moving “CD carts” to calculate acceleration, calculating the amount of horsepower they can generate by stepping up chairs, and building and designing pulley systems. As a culminating project, students build their own simple machine project capable of performing a simple task through the use of a variety of simple machines, forces and energies. The essentials of chemistry and matter are the focus of the second trimester. Students are exposed to the periodic table, compounds, mixtures and chemical interactions. Chemical analysis of our own Miller Creek is currently being integrated into the curriculum. Culminating projects have included designing chemical element books and creating “commercials” advertising an element from the periodic table. The final trimester includes a variety of projects and topics. Students study electronics and magnetism. They are surprised to find that their skills allow them to successfully build and design their own speakers, generators and motors. A portable Macintosh computer lab is used to create multi-media presentations, which have included presentations about forms of energy production. Time is also spent discussing health issues. Topics include the dangers of alcohol, drugs, tobacco, as well as discussions about sex, sexually transmitted diseases and the social pressures connected with sex.

Physical Education

  • PE Grade 6
    The sixth grade PE class has students split into two groups. Students rotate through PE every two weeks as they move from Art or Quest. Emphasis is on increasing flexibility, cardiovascular strength, muscle tone and coordination. Lead off games and drills are used as students participate in tumbling, basketball, soccer, volleyball, badminton, hockey, circuit training, dance, fitness testing, cross-country and track and field. Goals, sportsmanship and self-esteem are emphasized throughout the year. Students are expected to dress for PE and receive a letter grade.
  • PE Grade 7 and 8
    Students in seventh and eighth grade take daily PE and receive a letter grade. Emphasis is on participation, working to potential and demonstrating sportsmanship. Students continue to work on their stamina, strength, and cardiovascular systems. Units include but are not limited to volleyball, flag football, basketball, badminton, hockey, whiffle-ball, indoor/outdoor soccer, softball, tumbling, wrestling, archery, circuit training and dance. Students learn the importance of achieving their target heart rate and the formula used. Students’ aerobic progress is measured and documented bi- weekly.

Electives

6th Grade

  • Drama 6 (Drama, Technology and Spanish Wheel)
    Students in this wheel class spend one half year in Drama. Beginning with interpreting drama, the students work with improvisation, pantomime, voice and diction, and “acting”, bringing a play to life. Students will participate in warm-ups, games and exercises, as well as memorizing scripts for character and scene development. There is also some theatre history and play reading, culminating in encouragement to participate in the school play. Shakespeare will play a large role in the student experience. Using exercises from the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and the Folger Shakespeare Library education programs, students will not only understand Shakespeare, but they will develop their “Shakespeare Acting” skills.
  • Intro to Technology 6 (Drama, Technology and Spanish Wheel)
    Under construction
  • Intro to Spanish 6 (Drama, Technology and Spanish Wheel)
    Students in Spanish 6 will experience the beginning stages of learning a second language. They will be exposed to listening, speaking, reading and writing in Spanish. They will also have many opportunities to experience and learn about the cultures of Spain and much of Latin America. Folklore, foods, music, geography and more will be explored. This is a great “first look” for students who will pursue Spanish I and II in 7th and 8th grade.
  • Exploratory Art (Grade 6)
    In exploratory art, artistic expression and appreciation is learned! The ability to express oneself in a visually artistic manner must be nurtured and developed. Artistic expression is a life-long communicative tool as well as a never-ending source of enjoyment. Students in this class are encouraged to participate in the artistic process in a variety of ways with different types of media. As a part of this process, students will also view and discuss the works of master artists. As a way to demonstrate that art is an integral part of life, a number of the projects incorporate topics in other academic disciplines. This class alternates with student groups in Quest and Physical Education.
  • Quest 6
    The Lions-Quest Skills for Adolescence is a comprehensive positive character development and drug prevention program for young people. The program brings together parents and educators to teach young adolescents life and citizenship skills within a caring and consistent environment. The skills taught in the program include:
    • Building self-discipline, responsibility, and self-confidence
    • Communicating effectively and cooperating with others
    • Managing attitudes and emotions
    • Strengthening positive relationships with family and peers
    • Learning/developing skills in solving problems and making healthy decisions
    • Resisting negative peer pressure and drug use
    • Thinking critically
    • Setting goals and following through
    • Providing service to others

    The course is sequential and accommodates the entire sixth grade class over the course of a year. Students will do writing projects, role-playing, and data collection. Emphasis will be placed on class discussion and group interaction. Homework will be kept to a minimum.

  • Band 6
    Students entering the Sixth Grade Band have had one-year experience in the fifth grade on basic band instruments (Flute, Clarinet, Trumpet or Trombone). While the majority of students continue with one of these choices, many will elect to change to one of the "color" instruments during the sixth grade. The district provides instruction and some instruments for these changes. Instruments available are Alto Saxophone, Tenor Saxophone, Baritone Saxophone, Bass Clarinet, Baritone Horn, Tuba, French Horn, Oboe, Bassoon, and various Percussion instruments. All students interested in trying the various instruments are given that opportunity during the year. By the end of the sixth grade, most students have settled into the instrument of their choice. The sixth grade band studies basic ensemble technique such as following a conductor, working as a team, producing a balanced sound, and listening to the ensemble sound as a whole. Students work on individual "tone, tune (intonation), time (rhythm), technique (facility on instrument)" during the year. We perform a large amount of music in various styles. Students in all band classes are expected to practice their instruments and meet specific performance goals throughout the year.
  • Chorus 6
    In the sixth grade, singers meet everyday instead of the twice a week schedule they had in the elementary schools. Because the singer receives vocal instruction daily, we have a very strong program. As in the instrumental ensembles, singers study basic ensemble technique such as following a conductor; working as a team; producing a balanced sound; and listening to the ensemble sound as a whole. The singers become more proficient in sight singing as it is practiced every day. In sixth grade singers learn more about vocal production quality and how to get an excellent choral sound. We do this by using quality unison, two, three, four, up to six-part literature. Singers also become critical listeners, learning how to identify excellent choral sound quality. This group will perform in a few off campus venues including the elementary schools and Northgate Mall. They also participate in the California Music Educators Festivals throughout the greater Bay Area. Sixth grade singers are invited to participate in the Show Choir, which is comprised of 6th, 7th and 8th grade choral members. It is a non-auditioned group (vocal placement auditions are necessary) and meets every Wednesday at 7:00 a.m.
  • Orchestra 6
    Students are introduced to the fundamentals of ensemble playing. The instruments offered are violin, viola, cello and bass. Students who have previously studied violin, viola and cello have the option to study bass. Students learn to develop the skills of watching a conductor, interpreting music symbols and notation in parts, technical proficiency of playing with varied bowing styles and playing independent parts while listening to other parts. Music is of varied style ranging from baroque to contemporary style. There is a heavy emphasis on correct posture, tuning, rehearsal etiquette and concert etiquette in string orchestra performance. During the year, students are exposed to professional performances by visiting guest artists and ensembles. There are two main performances during the year in the winter and spring at Miller Creek School. In addition, advanced level students may also participate in field trips and performances outside of school for the community. Students are also encouraged to attend local symphony performances and field trips to attend music performances are occasionally scheduled by the teacher.

7th and 8th Grade

  • Advanced Art (Grade 7/8)
    The advanced art class is composed of both 7th and 8th grade students. Students may take this class 2 years consecutively without repeating projects. The curriculum will emphasize the universal elements of artistic expression. The history of art will be woven into the lessons presented and when possible, will be connected to topics being studied in other disciplines. Students will build an extensive art vocabulary, which will include the names of well-known artists and their styles. A working knowledge of the names of media, equipment, and techniques will also be developed. An appreciation for art, creative expression, problem solving, and development of a personal style will all be encouraged.
  • Foreign Language (Spanish I, II and French I, II)
    At Miller Creek, we have two-year Spanish and French programs. Our foreign language courses are grammar and communication based classes aimed at the development of the four skills of language learning: listening, speaking, reading and writing. By the end of our two-year program, it is our goal to assure that students will succeed at the second-year high school level in both public and private schools. To enhance language acquisition, we incorporate songs, dialogues and language-based games. We also introduce the culture and customs of the target language countries through readings, videos, personal experience and discussion.
  • Digital Media 7/8
    Digital Miller Creek is a new project based technology elective that will focus on the introduction, understanding, and mastery of computer hardware, software applications, communication tools, and internet based applications that are available to students on campus. Students will use this digital literacy/knowledge to work collaboratively developing projects, which will have a positive impact on communities both locally and globally. At the completion of the school year, students will create a digital portfolio demonstrating their achievements with each application/tool learned, and the results from their collaborative projects. Students who enroll in this class should be able to focus in a technology-rich environment, will need to work easily and collaboratively with others as well as independently in a project oriented setting, and should have a passion for technology and the means by which it can positively influence society.
  • Drama 7/8
    Beginning with interpreting drama, students in this class will work with improvisation, pantomime, voice and diction and “acting”, bring a play to life. Students will participate in warm-ups, games and exercises, as well as memorizing scripts for character and scene development. There is also some theatre history and play reading, culminating in encouragement to participate in the school play. The students will study iambic pentameter, Shakespeare’s use of antithesis, pronouns, verbal irony, verse and prose. Using exercises from the Oregon Shakespeare Festival and the Folger Shakespeare Library education programs, students will not only understand Shakespeare, but they will develop their “Shakespearean Acting” skills. This course is designed to widen the student’s perspectives of the body of literature, which is drama. It then makes personal those perspectives, bringing them to life via live performances.
  • Concert Band 7/8
    Members of the seventh/eighth grade band study more advanced techniques of ensemble playing. Students are provided the opportunity to perform in small ensembles as well. We perform more challenging band literature, including contemporary and classic works, pop styles and marches. Balance, intonation, dynamics and articulation are stressed throughout the year. We also study music theory and history. Eighth grade students learn the skills that will get them ready for the challenges of participating in a high school band.
  • Chorus 7/8
    Seventh/Eighth grade choral singers continue their vocal education by being introduced to literature, which ranges from three-part to eight-part choral works and adding choreographed movements to some of the popular literature. Their sight-singing skills advance to being able to read 3-4 part songs at sight. The repertoire for this group ranges from Gregorian Chants, Madrigals and Classical works to popular songs of present day including Broadway medleys. As in the sixth grade, this group participates in the California Music Educators Festivals throughout the greater Bay Area as well as local community venues. Seventh/Eighth grade choral members are eligible to audition for Jazz Choir, an advanced ensemble, which meets Tuesdays and Thursdays at 7:00 a.m. This group does performances throughout the year in the greater Bay Area as well as participating in the Redding Vocal Jazz Festival.
  • Orchestra 7/8
    Students continue to study fundamentals of ensemble playing with the addition of full orchestra literature. Advanced woodwind, brass and percussion players are mixed together with the string students for twice a year performances in the form of excerpts from symphonies, opera and ballet overtures and suites. The music increases in complexity. Music analysis and understanding of musical forms is emphasized. Students learn to relate the important elements of dynamics, balance, articulation and style to performing pieces. During the year, students are visited by guest artists and ensembles and receive videotaped lesson units on composers and famous string artists. There are two main performances during the year in the winter and spring at Miller Creek School. In addition, accomplished students are invited to participate in the annual countywide honor orchestra festival and often perform outside of school at civic events. Students are also encouraged to attend local symphony performances and fieldtrips to attend music performances are occasionally scheduled by the teacher.
  • Peer Tutors
    Peer tutors at Miller Creek Middle School assist other students in their general education classrooms and occasionally work with students outside of the classroom setting to provide extra support if necessary. Peer tutors are assigned to work with students who need extra help and support in their classes. Some of these students may have learning disabilities or they may just need a little extra help to succeed in their classes.
    Peer Tutor Requirements:
    • Be a positive role model for the student you work with as well as the other students in the class.
    • Keep a positive attitude, be patient, and always use respectful language when speaking to the student you're working with.
    • Make an effort to be at school everyday- your student(s) is depending on you!
    • Always try your best and ask questions if you are ever unsure about what is expected of you.
    • Keep up on your daily journal entries and peer tutoring assignments.
  • Cross-Age Tutors (CAT)
    This is an opportunity for responsible students to become Teacher Assistants at one of our local elementary schools (Mary Silveira, Vallecito or Dixie). Students work as cross-age tutors in elementary classrooms under the direct supervision of a credentialed teacher. The time commitment includes 6th and 7th periods; therefore students participating in the CAT program will have a seven period day with no other elective. The five core classes are taken in the morning. Counselor’s signature and at least one teacher recommendation is required on the elective choice form.