7th and 8th Grade Electives

 

 McAULIFFE MIDDLE SCHOOL

7th/ 8th Grade

ELECTIVE

Course Descriptions

ART 7/8

Awesome artists are not born, they are taught!  This year-long course is for 7th and 8th graders. Art 7/8 is for students interested in exploring an introduction into what art can be and refining the art concepts of:  elements of art, design/composition, perspective, realism, abstraction, and figure drawing and painting from a real, live model.  Enjoy a relaxing, and visual, learning environment while developing personal expression and mechanical skills related to art.  Students study two-dimensional art: drawing, painting, printmaking; and hands-on three-dimensional art: ceramics, and sculpture.  Eighth grade students have the opportunity to go on a field trip to a contemporary Museum in LA!  

 

ADVANCED ART 8 - Prerequisite: Art 7/8 or approval by Teacher is required.

Awesome artists are not born, they are taught!  This class is for 8th graders who have taken Art 7/8 or 8th graders who feel they should be in this class. Please see the teacher with a portfolio of work.  Taking art up to the next degree, students further their art skills by refining the art techniques and by learning contemporary art concepts.  This class will heighten personal expression and mechanical skills related to art.  Students study two-dimensional art: drawing, painting, printmaking; and hands-on three-dimensional art: ceramics and sculpture.   Advanced Art students have the opportunity to go on a field trip to a Contemporary Museum in LA.  Fourth quarter, students work on either the Final Project, or the Mural Project, and work in the style of an artist of their choice.  Create a mural, and leave your legacy!  

 

DRAMA 7/8 

This year-long course of study is designed for seventh and eighth grade students to attain techniques in performing before an audience, to gain confidence in themselves, and to acquire knowledge of those areas related to theater, and performing.  The focus is on acting, speaking, and performing.  Activities include improvisation games, theater history projects, scene writing and more!  Students will also perform monologues, scenes, and short plays in class throughout the year.  

 

THEATER TECH ⅞ (NEW)

This is a project-based class for students interested in the behind-the-scenes side of theater. Students will learn the beginning skills of building sets, costumes and props. Students will also learn different design skills—like lighting and sound design—that will be used in the Advanced Drama’s fall and spring productions. Students will receive exciting hands-on training and have the unique opportunity to learn about the responsibility and safety of how to operate the technical theater equipment at our school while building practical skills in the different areas of theater throughout the play production process. This is a non-performance class, but the work in class will be showcased in all of the performance-based Drama classes throughout the year.

 

ADVANCED DRAMA - Auditions Required - 7th and 8th Grade students can audition.

This year-long course of study requires an audition to be a member of the class.  Students will continue building on the skills from Drama 7/8 with an emphasis on performing.  Advanced Drama will perform two plays during the school year.  All rehearsals will be during the class period, but two evenings per show will be required for public performances - dates will be given out at the beginning of the school year.  Students will also become members of Jr. Thespian Troupe #89273, an international theater arts honor society! 

GOOGLE CLASSROOM CODE FOR IN-PERSON/VIDEO AUDITIONS INSTRUCTIONS: an5pt6yp

 

Intermediate STEM - STEM II: No Prerequisite required for Intermediate STEM 7/8

In this year-long class, students will learn the basic concepts of graphic design, digital illustration, video production, and coding/game design. In the first semester, students will utilize computers and advanced software to create digital art and programs. Students will receive an Adobe account and learn how to utilize the Adobe suite of applications including Photoshop and Illustrator. As a CTE class (Career Technical Education), STEM II will prepare them for careers in technical fields and explore how to make themselves more marketable in an ever changing technological world. In the second semester, students will enter into a module based curriculum in which they can choose any of the previously mentioned concepts and will receive more advanced assignments tailored to their choice. Students can choose a single module (eg. Graphic Design) to work on for the rest of the school year, or can vary their semester with a mixture of concepts. 

 

Advanced STEM - STEM III – 8th Grade ONLY - Prerequisite: STEM II 7/8 or approval by Teacher is required.

In this year-long class, students will be introduced to Design Thinking, 3D design, 3D printing, sketching, engineering principles, robotics, product life cycle, and product design. STEM III will involve hands-on building experience. Students will learn safety procedures using tools and apply those skills by building a variety of projects. Primarily, students will learn to build TurnaBot battle robots from scratch. They will learn soldering techniques and how to create electric circuits. Students will also have the opportunity to design their own robot from their own design. STEM III students will also submit a project for the STEAM Fair in April. If you did not take STEM II, but have knowledge from previous classes, please see Dr. Alvarado for approval. 

 

YEARBOOK 7/8  - APPLICATION REQUIRED - Complete the application on the back of the registration form. 

This class is the ultimate group project! Students will collaborate to create the McAuliffe yearbook using a variety of technology tools, including computers, the internet, and cameras. Seventh and eighth grade students will work both independently and in small teams to design and produce yearbook pages. Students enrolled in this class must be responsible, able to meet deadlines, and effective collaborators.

 

LEADERSHIP 7/8 (ASB) - APPLICATION REQUIRED - Complete the application on the back of the registration form. 

This class empowers students to become dynamic leaders by teaching skills such as strategic planning, problem-solving, effective communication, collaboration, money management, and advertising. As the driving force behind many school-wide events, ASB students will take the lead in organizing spirit days, exciting lunchtime games and competitions, cultural celebrations for heritage months, festive candy gram fundraisers, and meaningful staff and student of the week recognitions. They will also bring the school community together by planning semester dance festivals, and more. With hands-on experience in event planning and promotion, students will master various advertising techniques. A dedicated multimedia team will take charge of The Birdwatch school news site, manage social media, and produce the weekly morning announcement videos. This class isn't just about leadership—it's about making a lasting impact. By gaining real-world experience, students will build confidence, foster school spirit, and create a fun and vibrant school environment.

 

LEADERSHIP 7/8 (LINK CREW) - APPLICATION REQUIRED - Complete the application on the back of the registration form.  

Link Crew Leadership develops students into empathetic, proactive leaders dedicated to creating a welcoming and connected school community. Members serve as mentors and ambassadors, helping 6th graders and new students feel supported and confident as they transition into middle school. As leaders of our Welcome Crew initiatives, students organize and run the annual 5th Grade Social in the spring and plan and facilitate WEB Day to kick off the school year strong. From leading campus tours to guiding interactive activities, Link Crew ensures new students feel connected from day one. Through the Helping Hands committee, students create meaningful community service opportunities that benefit both our school and the local community. Leaders also promote College & Career Days and design monthly Mind Matters activities that highlight wellness, kindness, and positive mental health. Through collaboration, event planning, public speaking, and team-building field trips, students build confidence, responsibility, empathy, and leadership skills that strengthen our entire school community.

 

LANGUAGE:

SPANISH I  (This course is held at McAuliffe - 8th grade ONLY) 

Students develop foundational skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking in preparation for Spanish II Honors or Spanish II. Throughout the year, students will read 2–3 mini-novels to strengthen reading proficiency and begin building cultural awareness of Spanish-speaking countries. This course includes nightly homework, along with weekly quizzes and tests. It is equivalent to Spanish I at LAHS and fulfills one year toward the LAHS Seal of Biliteracy.






 

MUSIC/INSTRUMENTAL:

STRING ORCHESTRA 6-8 Prerequisite:  No prior experience necessary. 

Orchestra is an exciting one-year course for students in grades 6-8 who play orchestral string instruments, where they’ll dive into a variety of music from classical masterpieces to popular hits and epic film scores! Throughout the year, students will sharpen their individual skills and discover the power of collaboration while performing in school concerts, district events, and prestigious Southern California Orchestra Festivals. All performances are a must, offering students the chance to shine and build confidence. A suggested donation covers performance costs, travel, and competitions, with scholarships and fundraising opportunities available to help. Private lessons are encouraged for those ready to take their talent to the next level. This course is an unforgettable opportunity for your child to grow as a musician, make new friends, and experience the joy of performing in a supportive, energetic environment!

 

SYMPHONIC BAND (Intermediate) BAND 6 - 8 (New to Intermediate Skills Welcome)

This training ensemble is perfect for 6th-8th grade students with some previous band experience or who have completed Concert Band. It's also a great fit for beginners who have taken a few lessons, such as a 5-6 lesson Summer course. Students will be asked to participate in a brief, friendly audition where they can showcase their favorite piece or scale. With students of all skill levels welcome, this class offers a supportive environment for musical growth. Rental of an instrument and reasonably priced performance attire are required. While outside rehearsals and events are minimal, they are necessary for success. A small, suggested donation helps cover performance and competition costs, with scholarships and fundraising options available. Private lessons are encouraged to help students reach their full potential and excel in the ensemble. This is an exciting opportunity for your child to continue their musical journey, build confidence, and enjoy making music with others!

 

WIND SYMPHONY (Advanced) BAND ⅞  Audition required if you are NEW to Band

The McAuliffe Wind Symphony is an exciting, competitive music group that allows students to showcase their talents through performances. Admission is based on a brief audition, which includes a solo piece, major scales, and sight-reading. While some instruments may have limited availability, all students are encouraged to apply. Participation in all performances is required, and students will need to rent an instrument (if necessary) and purchase reasonably priced performance attire. A suggested donation helps cover performance, travel, and competition costs, with scholarships and fundraising opportunities available. Private lessons are recommended for students to fully excel in this advanced performance ensemble. This is a great opportunity for your child to grow artistically and be part of a dedicated, talented group!

 

JAZZ BAND 6-8 Audition is required.  Zero Period - Class starts at 7:43 A.M. 

This course is for students in grades 6th - 8th who have prior experience on their instruments and are willing to add a second music performance class to their schedule. Students in this advanced performing ensemble should have the technical ability and musical background needed to thrive in a challenging and competitive environment. Jazz band members will rehearse once a week after school (in the spring) and attend additional practices, festivals, and performances as scheduled each semester. Participation in all performances is required. To join, students will need to rent an instrument (if necessary), purchase a recommended mouthpiece, and buy reasonably priced performance attire. A suggested donation covers performance, travel, and competition fees, with scholarships and fundraising opportunities available. Private lessons are strongly recommended to help students excel and keep pace in this rigorous performance group.

 

MUSIC/VOCAL:McAuliffeChoir.com

SOUNDWAVES 7/8 (Show Choir)

This year-long course is designed for developing treble voices who enjoy singing and performing.  Students will learn voice technique, part singing, and sight-reading. The choir participates in 3 McAuliffe Concerts, District Choral Festival, Show Choir Competition, and Knott’s Berry Farm.  Outside of class rehearsals and performances are a requirement of the class. *There is a small suggested donation to cover the costs of performance and competition.  Scholarships and fundraisers are available.

 

STUDIO SINGERS 7/8  (Show Choir SS) - Audition Required

This course is an advanced show choir for the mature treble voice.  It is designed for students with strong singing and dancing abilities, who are fully committed to the success of their group.  The choir participates in 3 McAuliffe Concerts, District Choral Festival,  2 Show Choir Competitions, and Knott’s Berry Farm.  All rehearsals, performances, and competitions are required and ample notice will be given.  *There is a small suggested donation to cover the costs of performance and competition.  Scholarships and fundraisers are available.



 

SOUL MEN 6-8 (Show Choir)

This course will focus on developing the Tenor and Bass voice, as well as assisting students through the voice change.  Students will learn singing and performing techniques and work with clinicians to help develop their craft.  This class is very active and is a great way to make new friends, while working the brain and body at the same time.  The choir participates in 3 McAuliffe Concerts, District Choral Festival,  2 Show Choir Competitions, and Knott’s Berry Farm.  Outside of class rehearsals and performances are a requirement of the class.*There is a small suggested donation to cover the costs of performance and competition, however, scholarships and fundraisers are available to help.

 

CHAMBER CHOIR - Audition Required; Zero Period - Class starts at 7:43 A.M.

This small mixed ensemble is unique to the middle school level.  Singing primarily a cappella music, students in the group must have advanced sight reading, harmonization, and singing skill.  Participants in this group must also be a part of another performing group at McAuliffe. The choir participates in 3 McAuliffe concerts, District Choral Festival,  several community events, acappella festival, and Knott’s Berry Farm.  All rehearsals, performances, and competitions are required and ample notice will be given.  There is a small suggested donation to cover the costs of performance and competition.  Scholarships and fundraisers are available.

 

 AIDES:8TH Grade ONLY

 ATTENDANCE/COUNSELING/OFFICE AIDE  Approval by the Office Staff.

The student will assist office personnel by collecting attendance data, taking out call slips, making copies on the copy machine, filing and any other job that arises.  Student aides need to be cooperative and able to carry out responsibilities independently. To be considered for this elective, students must demonstrate a strong record of regular attendance, positive citizenship, and consistent work habits.

                                                                       

 

PE - NEW OPPORTUNITY (This is not an elective. This is an option for PE.)

UNIFIED PE:   Please select YES or NO on your elective form to communicate interest.

Play Unified! Students in the Unified PE class serve as mentor partners to students with disabilities while participating in various gross motor activities. This course combines all students to participate in developmentally appropriate activities including lifetime activities, physical fitness and team/individual sports. Students will work together to increase competence and confidence in a variety of physical activities. Through ongoing leadership opportunities, members of this course will be empowered to help create a more inclusive and accepting school environment for all students. Students will not just serve as mentor partners, but will be expected to improve their own skills. This yearlong class will be taken for Physical Education credit.