Course Descriptions

6th Grade Social Studies - 54436                                                      

Sixth-grade students will explore the tools and mental constructs used by geographers as they study contemporary world geography. Contemporary civics/government and economics content is integrated throughout the year. As a capstone, the students will conduct an investigation of a global issue. Using knowledge, research, and inquiry, they will analyze an issue and propose a plan for the future, including a partner debate. 

6th Grade Math - 52036

In 6th grade math, students will continue to develop their number sense as they work with whole numbers and their properties, as well as build upon their understanding and fluency of operations with rational numbers (including fractions and decimals). Students will also be introduced to ratios, rates and percentages, expressions and equations, surface area and volume, integers, and data measures and displays. Topics presented are emphasized through concepts and skills practice, as well as collaborative problem-solving investigations that develop the student's ability to think like a mathematician.  It is imperative that students in this course are fluent in basic math facts (multiplication and division).

6th Grade Advanced Math - 52034

Advanced Math is designed for students who have demonstrated skill levels and a commitment necessary to work on the content of increased rigor, speed, and independence. In the 6th Grade Advanced Math course, students will learn the entire 6th grade curriculum standards (above) and half of the 7th grade curriculum standards (which includes operations with rational numbers, simplifying and evaluating expressions, solving equations and inequalities, and proportional reasoning). The depth and speed of this course are intended to prepare students to continue on an advanced mathematics track if they choose. Selection for this course is primarily based on students' demonstrated skill level as shown on the i-Ready Diagnostic. The student's score from the spring of 5th grade as well as their performance history on iReady will be used to determine course placement. M-STEP scores, previous excellence in math, and teacher recommendations are additional factors that will be examined as needed.

6th Grade Language Arts - 51034                                                                                                            

This course is designed to bridge the elementary and secondary school experiences to expand students’ language skills. Students read and analyze a variety of fiction and non-fiction texts including novels, short stories and periodicals. As a result, students build their reading stamina and learn to interpret texts in meaningful ways. Students also write informative, narrative, and argumentative pieces such as inquiry essays and personal narratives. Grammar study, like the correct use of parts of speech, and word study, will be incorporated throughout the year.  Critical thinking, speaking, listening, and analyzing evidence is a major part of 6th grade Language Arts.  

6th Grade Science - 53236                                                                                                                       

In this course, students begin with an investigation of the NGSS Cross-Cutting Concepts and Science and Engineering Practices that they will utilize throughout the course to make sense of phenomena and solve problems.  In the life science unit, students will conduct an investigation to provide evidence that living things are made up of cells- either one cell or many different types and numbers of cells. Students will develop and use a model to describe the function of a cell as a whole and the ways that the parts of a cell contribute to the overall function. They will use arguments supported by evidence for how the body is a system of interacting subsystems composed of groups of cells. Students will explore the variety of ecosystems. They will describe the relationships and interactions within ecosystems including those that cause ecosystems to change. In physical science students deepen their understanding of matter by developing models to describe the atomic composition of simple molecules and they will be introduced to the properties of waves and how waves travel through various materials.

Please click here for Elective Offerings

7th Grade Social Studies - 54437

Seventh-grade students will review the tools and mental constructs used by historians and geographers. They will develop an understanding of World History, Eras 1 – 4. Geography, civics/government, and economics content is integrated throughout the year. As a capstone, the students will conduct investigations about past and present global issues. Using significant content knowledge, research, and inquiry, they will analyze the issue and propose a plan for the future. As part of the inquiry, they will compose civic, persuasive arguments in the form of a variety of presentation formats.

7th Grade Science - 53237

The course begins with Earth Science as students investigate the interactions of solar energy and matter on this planet, which result in weather and, ultimately, climate.  Students will look at water cycles within the lithosphere, hydrosphere, and atmosphere.  Students learn that the sun drives the water cycle and explore the relationship between the warming of the atmosphere by the sun, weather and climate.  In the Physical Science unit, students conduct investigations to trace the transfer of energy through matter.  They begin by exploring kinetic and potential energy through a variety of hands-on activities.  Followed by investigations into thermal energy where students develop models to illustrate heat transfer and use those models to explain and build items that minimize heat transfer.  Electricity is a highlight of the unit when students complete circuits and create electromagnets and motors. Students wrap up physical science lessons by delving into chemical reactions through multiple lab opportunities and model constructions.  Through these activities, students will develop a deeper understanding of how chemical reactions occur, what evidence proves a reaction has taken place, and how to argue from evidence to support their hypotheses.  In the Life Science unit, students use scientific equipment to observe single- and multicellular organisms. They identify ways in which cells accomplish the basic functions of life, such as acquiring and using energy, maintaining balance (homeostasis), and reproducing. Through observation and model construction students examine cell processes.  Students trace the source of energy for cell growth and other life functions and investigate the conditions necessary for photosynthesis.  Students end the year with an introduction to genetics where, through a variety of activities, they investigate how traits are inherited from generation to generation, what factors affect the inheritance of traits and how altered proteins within the gene code can occur, and how that impacts species survival.

7th Math - 52037

In 7th grade math, students will study concepts of numbers and operations, algebra, geometry, data analysis, and probability. Math 7 topics include operations with rational numbers; simplifying and evaluating algebraic expressions; properties of real numbers; solving equations and inequalities; problem-solving with algebra; rates, ratios, proportions, and percents; area, surface area, and volume; data analysis and display; probability; and geometric constructions and drawings. It is imperative that students in this course are fluent in basic math facts (multiplication and division through the 12's). They should have a solid understanding of equivalent and simplified fractions, as well as fluency in adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing fractions and decimals. Students must be self-disciplined (good work habits) and self-motivated. Students in this course are expected to make connections between previously learned materials and new concepts. 

7th Grade Advanced Math - 52040

Advanced Math is designed for students who have demonstrated skill levels necessary to work on the content of increased rigor, speed, and independence. In the 7th Grade Advanced Math course, students will learn the second half of the 7th grade curriculum standards and the entire 8th grade curriculum standards. The depth and speed of this course is intended to prepare students for Algebra I in 8th grade and to continue on an advanced mathematics track if they choose. Selection for this course is primarily based on two factors: students must have earned an A or a B in 6th grade Math and their demonstrated skill level as shown on the i-Ready Diagnostic. The student’s score from the spring of 6th grade as well as their performance history on i-Ready will be used to determine course placement. M-STEP scores, previous excellence in math, and teacher recommendations are additional factors that will be examined as needed.

7th Language Arts - 51035

Seventh Grade English Language Arts is a course organized into six units of study: Narrative Reading, Independent Reading, Literary Essay, Argumentative Writing, Non-Fiction Reading, and Informational Writing about a Historical Event and/or Figure. Students will be reading narrative text focusing on the elements of fiction, focusing on text connections within an independent reading book, writing a literary analysis essay that presents a theory about a theme and includes evidence to support their claim, identifying and analyzing features in informational text, and writing a descriptive account of a historical event. Students will also be asked to present their work periodically to practice speaking and listening skills.

7th Grade Advanced English Language Arts - 51042

The Advanced Language Arts curriculum, which is aligned with the Michigan State Standards, will be composed of grade-level academic content that requires higher-level critical and analytical thinking skills.  These skills will be utilized while engaging with complex text that embraces a variety of literary genres, integrated writing activities, and independent projects. Advanced ELA 7 is considered a more rigorous and faster-paced class for students at the middle school level.  Therefore, it is necessary that students selected for this opportunity make a commitment to be successful.  This includes the ability to participate often in class, develop and display strong writing skills, complete necessary homework, exhibit excellent school attendance, and demonstrate a strong work ethic along with the ability to respond positively to academic challenges and adversity. Students in this class will need to possess the ability and willingness to work well with others and engage in book club discussions that will challenge them to practice a variety of advanced communication skills. If students accept this opportunity and are successful in this class, they may be able to take Advanced ELA 8 in 8th grade.  This may allow them to take other advanced ELA classes during their high school years.  

Please click here for Elective Offerings

 

8th Grade Social Studies - 54438

This 8th grade course introduces students to the history of the United States from the Articles of Confederation to the end of the 19th century. Beginning with the political and intellectual transformations that preceded the Articles of Confederation, students review the ideas and principles that form the basis of our constitutional republic. Students further their understanding of the American government from an in-depth study of the United States Constitution. Students explore the challenges faced by the new nation and the role of political and social leaders in meeting these challenges. They analyze and evaluate early attempts to abolish or contain slavery and to realize the ideals of the Declaration of Independence for all. In studying the Civil War and Reconstruction, students evaluate multiple causes, key events, and complex consequences of the war and its aftermath. 

8th Grade Language Arts - 51036

This course is designed to expand students’ language skills. Students read and analyze a variety of fiction and non-fiction texts. Students have an independent reading unit, which is ongoing throughout the year. Students will write a variety of informative, narrative, and argumentative pieces. Vocabulary and grammar will be incorporated throughout the year. Students also have opportunities to demonstrate leadership skills while improving their speaking and communication skills through small group and class presentations..

8th Grade Advanced Language Arts - 51040

The 8th grade Honors Language Arts course provides students the opportunity to challenge themselves through a deeper examination of concepts in literature, writing, research, oral communication, grammar, and vocabulary.  Students are expected to read, write and participate in assignments beyond regular 8th grade Language Arts expectations.  Students at this level should possess a strong work ethic, strong reading and writing skills, a willingness to read and work independently, be motivated and interested in language Arts. Advanced ELA 8 is considered a more rigorous and faster-paced class for students at the middle school level.  Therefore, it is necessary that students selected for this opportunity make a commitment to be successful.  This includes the ability to participate often in class, develop and display strong writing skills, complete nightly homework, exhibit excellent school attendance, and demonstrate a strong work ethic along with the ability to respond positively to academic challenges and adversity.  If students accept this opportunity and are successful in this class, it may allow them to take other advanced ELA classes during their high school years.

8th Grade Science - 53238

8th-grade students will explore the foundations of Earth Science. Following the NGSS Standards, students will investigate and explore phenomena-based units as well as complete engineering challenges. The beginning of the year incorporates the engineering design to study Newton's 3 laws and the force of gravity. Students will enjoy designing and testing catapults, and rockets, and investigating Newton's law in real-world situations. 1st trimester also focuses on Earth’s place in the universe.  Students learn how the solar system was created and how that contributed to what objects we find in the solar system.  Students will also understand the relationship between the sun, moon, and earth by investigating seasons, eclipses, and the moon phases.  The trimester ends by studying space exploration, debating the best place to build a lunar base, understanding the challenges of landing on Mars, and finally attempting to land an egg safely on the surface.  In the second trimester, students will begin to study how the Earth has changed as they take a trip through geologic time. Students will be able to explain how plate tectonics have shaped our planet and are still causing the geologic hazards we have today. This geology unit will also involve studying rocks and fossils, then using them as evidence of how the Earth and life has changed. The fossils will also allow students to understand how natural selection and evolution works. Third trimester focuses on how humans impact our planet and learn what we can do to preserve it.  The Earth is a closed system and what we do to one of our spheres can impact other parts of the Earth. Water is our most precious resource and students will study how to prevent pollution and conserve fresh water. They will get involved by collecting, and testing local waters, and have the opportunity to work with environmentalists.  Students will also study the impact they have on the carbon cycle and how fossil fuels are contributing to climate change.  Students will get a choice of an environmental issue to study and share with their classmates. With a strong emphasis placed on inquiry, research, and problem-solving, students will gain a better understanding and develop an appreciation for the planet we call home.

8th Grade Math - 52038

8th grade units of study will increase the depth of understanding and knowledge gained through study in sixth and seventh grades in the areas of number and operations, expressions and equations, functions, geometry, statistics and probability. Units of study include: approximating and performing operations with real numbers (including radicals and exponents), connecting and solving linear equations and systems, comparing and modeling functional relationships, applying formulas to geometric shapes (including the Pythagorean theorem), and analyzing and graphing bivariate data. It is imperative that students in this course are fluent with basic math facts (multiplication and division through the 12's). They should have a solid understanding of integers (positive and negative numbers), as well as fluency in adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing integers. Additionally, students should be competent in working with equivalent and simplified fractions, as well as fluency in adding, subtracting, multiplying and dividing fractions and decimals. Students in this course are expected to make connections between previously learned materials and new concepts.

8th Grade Algebra I    (Fulfills requirement for HS Algebra 1) - 52081                                                                        

Selection for this course is primarily based on two factors: students must have earned an A or a B in 7th grade Math and their demonstrated skill level as shown on the i-Ready Diagnostic. The student's score from the spring of 7th grade as well as their performance history on i-Ready will be used to determine course placement. M-STEP scores, previous excellence in math, and teacher recommendations are additional factors that will be examined as needed.

This class constitutes the Algebra I requirements from the State of Michigan as well as National Common Core State Standards. Algebra I is the study of functions and representations. Algebra I is a year-long course designed to give students a solid foundation in algebraic concepts and skills. Areas of study include linear, quadratic, radical, and exponential functions and their graphs, equation-solving skills including factoring quadratics for real and imaginary solutions, and radical equation solving using the Pythagorean theorem. Other focuses include mathematical modeling and bivariate data-examining relationships. Students must meet district requirements for placement in this class.

Emphasis will be placed on students developing the following skills:

1. Make sense of problems and persevere in solving them
2. Reason abstractly and quantitatively
3. Construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others
4. Model with mathematics
5. Use appropriate tools strategically
6. Attend to precision
7. Look for and make use of structure
8. Look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning

6th Grade Art (Fall, Winter, Spring) - 51861

In this class, you will be exploring art through a variety of art projects. You will learn new things and build on your knowledge from elementary art. Each session will have different projects using a variety of  art tools, media, and techniques. We will draw,  paint , color, and create a 3D project using clay, paper mache or yarn. 

7th Grade Art (Fall, Winter, Spring)  – 51881

Students will investigate a wide range of media and techniques as they engage in the art making process. Students will grow as artists as they problem solve, build on prior knowledge, and make artistic choices in their art. We will explore a variety of 2D and 3D projects during the trimester.

8th Grade Art  (Fall, Winter, Spring)  – 51882 

Students will investigate a wide range of media and techniques as they engage in the art through project-based activities. Students will grow as artists as they problem solve, build on prior knowledge, and make artistic choices in their art. We will explore a variety of 2D and 3D projects during the trimester.

Choir (6th Grade) - 55139

Do you like to sing? Would you like to sing and perform in class every day? Choir is the place for you! Choir is a full-year course. Students who enroll are expected to participate for the full year.  The course offers beginning choir students an exploration into the fundamentals of being in a middle school choir.  Students focus on basic music theory such as note and symbol recognition as well as reading and writing music.  Students work daily on their class music in preparation for performances throughout the year. Students analyze and critique their sound and performances regularly.  Evaluation will be based on class participation, proficiency, as well as performance attendance.  Prior singing experience is not required.   Attendance at all concerts and performances is mandatory, and students will also be required to attend all scheduled rehearsals and dress rehearsals.  Activities may include but are not limited to three concerts. 

Choir (7th Grade) - 55140

Do you like to sing? Would you like to sing and perform in class every day? Choir is the place for you! Choir is a full-year course. Students who enroll are expected to participate for the full year.  The course offers beginning/ intermediate choir students an exploration into the fundamentals of being in a middle school choir.  Students focus on basic music theory such as note and symbol recognition as well as reading and writing music.  Students work daily on their class music in preparation for performances throughout the year. Students analyze and critique their sound and performances regularly.  Evaluation will be based on class participation, proficiency, as well as performance attendance.  Prior singing experience is not required.   Attendance at all concerts and performances is mandatory, and students will also be required to attend all scheduled rehearsals and dress rehearsals.  Activities may include but are not limited to four concerts. 

Choir (8th Grade) - 55141

Do you like to sing? Would you like to sing and perform in class every day? Choir is the place for you! Choir is a full-year course. Students who enroll are expected to participate for the full year.  The course offers beginning/ intermediate choir students an exploration into the fundamentals of being in a middle school choir.  Students focus on basic music theory such as note and symbol recognition as well as reading and writing music.  Students work daily on their class music in preparation for performances throughout the year. Students analyze and critique their sound and performances regularly.  Evaluation will be based on class participation, proficiency, as well as performance attendance.  Prior singing experience is not required.   Attendance at all concerts and performances is mandatory, and students will also be required to attend all scheduled rehearsals and dress rehearsals.  Activities may include but are not limited to four concerts. 

Beginning Band - Brass or Woodwind(6th-8th grades) - 55106

Have you never played in a band before and would like to learn how to play an instrument? Then beginning band is for you!  This is a performance-based class where students will learn to read musical notes and rhythms and apply them to the performance of a specific instrument.  Beginning instrument options include flute, clarinet, trumpet, trombone, and euphonium. Students may audition for percussion and other instruments after our first winter concert. Beginning Band is a full-year commitment with two public concert performances: one in the winter and one in the spring. 7th and 8th-grade students in the beginning band may join their grade level band at the end of a trimester if they demonstrate sufficient skills. 

Concert Band (7th grade) - 55107

Students must pass the beginning band before joining the concert band.  Students will continue developing individual playing techniques on their assigned instrument.  This intermediate band class will perform multiple times throughout the year at school events and concerts in the fall, winter, and spring.  Concert band is a full-year commitment.

Prerequisite: Beginning Band

Symphony Band (8th grade) - 55108

Students must pass the beginning band class before joining the symphony band.  Students will continue developing individual playing techniques on their assigned instrument.  This advanced band class will perform many times throughout the year at school events and concerts in the fall, winter, and spring.  Symphony band is a full-year commitment.

Prerequisite: Beginning Band

Jazz Band (7th & 8th Grade) - 55105

The jazz ensemble is a class offered to all 7th and 8th grade band students interested in learning to play jazz music.  Students will learn the fundamental characteristics of playing in the swing style, improvisation soloing technique, and ensemble performance technique.  Several big band jazz styles will be covered including swing, ballad, rock, Latin, and modern music.  Students will showcase their skills by performing at evening band concerts periodically throughout the year, including concerts in the fall, winter, and spring.     

Prerequisite: Audition only

Intro to Percussion (7th Grade) - 55104

Intro to Percussion is a full-year class open to any 7th grade student interested in learning to play percussion instruments (drums). No experience is required. Units will include snare drum techniques and rhythm notation reading skills, performance techniques for all concert percussion instruments (cymbals, triangle, tambourine, bass drum, toms, timpani, etc.), mallet percussion techniques and note reading skills (bells, chimes, xylophone, marimba, etc), and drum set techniques and music reading. Grading will be based on written and performance quizzes (solo and small ensemble/groups), and successful small group ensembles may be invited to perform at band concerts. 

Percussion students in 7th grade band are encouraged (but not required) to take this elective in addition to band class. It will serve as a supplement to curriculum taught in band. 

Intro to Theatre: (8th Grade) - 55150

8th grade Introduction to Theatre is a single trimester course offered at Holly HS.  Throughout the trimester, students will explore basic technical theatre, acting styles, and theatre history.  Each area of exploration will culminate in a student-created project.  Students will produce an end-of-trimester digital portfolio that will contain photos, video, and other examples of their work.  All projects are student-centered, requiring students to make choices, collaborate, and present their work.  The classroom environment is one of respect and acceptance, and all students contribute to preserving it as a safe, creative space.  8th grade students would be starting their day at the high school in the morning, then be bussed back to the middle school for 2nd hour and beyond.

Introductory Spanish (6th & 7th Grade) – 56100

iHola y bienvenidos!  Hello and welcome to Introductory Spanish.  Students in this class will learn the very basics of the Spanish language, as well as celebrate the Spanish culture. Introductory Spanish  is designed to bridge the gap between elementary Spanish and the high school Spanish program, as well as help students succeed in 8th grade Spanish 1 for high school credit.  You don’t want to miss out on this awesome opportunity!

 

It may prove beneficial to take this class as a 6th or 7th grader prior to enrolling in Spanish 1 as an 8th grader. This early introduction to Spanish language and culture may be the perfect stepping stone for you to decide if you’d like to commit to Spanish 1 later down the road. Please keep in mind that Introductory Spanish is not a prior requirement for enrolling in Spanish 1, it is only a suggestion and may be beneficial.

Spanish I (8th Grade) - 56100

(Fulfills requirements for HS Spanish I)

¡Hola! Did you know that Spanish is the second most spoken language in the world by a number of native speakers? In fact, the number of native Spanish speakers actually beats the number of native English speakers! In this class, students have the opportunity to earn high school credit toward the State of Michigan’s world language graduation requirement. This requirement states that students must pass two years of world language. Students will be allowed to continue on to Spanish II at the high school if they pass this class. Students will have fun learning how to read, write, listen, and speak in Spanish. We will also learn about the food, customs, and culture of Spanish-speaking countries around the world. There has never been a better time to learn Spanish and expand your horizons for the future - knowledge of a second language has been proven to make you more employable when it comes to applying for your dream job one day. Begin your journey of Spanish language learning today! This year-long course.

Great Lakes Ecology (7th & 8th Grade) - 53201

This course will give students a historical perspective of the Great Lakes dating back to the early 1900s to today.  Students will study timelines that will help them understand some of the ecological changes that have occurred in the Great Lakes over time.  Students will also study plants and animals that are native to Michigan, as well as invasive species and how they affect Michigan’s diverse ecosystems. Ecology students are in charge of the school-wide recycling program and will spend time learning about recycling and its effect on our environment. Students will help to set up and run our aquaponics system and will learn how it works and will get a glimpse into the chemistry behind it.  Depending on the trimester, you may have the opportunity to get outdoors to study Michigan’s wildflowers.  In this class, students will be actively involved and will complete a variety of projects, including researching and presenting a Michigan native species of their choice and a design project where you will create something functional out of recycled materials. 

Physical Education (6th, 7th &  8th Grade) – 58036, 58037, 58038

(Fall, Winter, Spring) 

This class is designed to strengthen your core body muscles, increase cardiovascular strength, and give you exposure to a variety of sports and other non-traditional games/activities.  Fifty percent of the time will be devoted to developing strength and conditioning and fifty percent of the time will be given to participation in a sport and/or alternative games (dodgeball, capture the flag, fowling, matball, etc.).  Proper warm-ups, stretching and cool-down procedures are taught as well as working with proper heart rate and rest in between exercises and sets.  The sports covered will vary from trimester to trimester (see below). Lastly, each student will be tested in the Presidential Fitness Award in a pre and post-test manner to show growth and maximize their chances of earning this award.

Listed below are the typical sports that are included, but not limited to, in each trimester.

Trimester 1: Wiffle ball, football, basketball, volleyball, & soccer

Trimester 2: Team handball, floor hockey, badminton, basketball, & volleyball

Trimester 3: Soccer, softball/baseball, pickleball, ping pong, disc golf

Math  Skills  (6th, 7th & 8th Grade) – 52986,  52987, 52988

This course is designed to target students who have demonstrated a need for additional math instruction.  Selection for this course is based on student data that has been collected over time.  iReady, MSTEP, and classroom data are all considered.  Students receive instruction that is designed to meet their needs.  The goal of the math skills class is to increase math confidence, skills, and understanding.  This class will count as one of the student's elective classes.

Design Lab  (6th, 7th & 8th Grade) - 60006

Do you want to create, design, and compete on projects both individually and in a team format?  Do you want to come up with a design plan and then use technology to bring it to life? Do you want to take your use of coding and robotics to the next level?  If the answer is yes, then Design Lab is the course for you!!

In this class, you will work in an environment where ideas, collaboration, and problem-solving are at the forefront. You will be tasked to brainstorm ideas, come up with design plans and solutions, and apply them to a variety of challenges, designs, and competitions. Throughout the course of the trimester, students will utilize skills developed in Computer Apps, including but not limited to Google Sheets, Slides, Docs, word processing, typing, and other skills. Some example projects may include:  

Take your robotic and coding skills to the next level! Use add-ons, dive deeper into coding, and compete in real-world scenarios

Create a flight plan and apply programming skills to fly Drones through courses and competitions

Utilize design programs for a student choice Animation Creation project,

Utilize design programs to create a unique floor plan for a home design

Utilize TinkerCad to create a student-led project (and/or other 3-dimensional software) from project creation through modeling

Utilizing the Laser Cutter and Vinyl Cutter, students can see the design process from idea incubation to a final product 

STEM I (6th, 7th & 8th Grade) - 72255, 72556, 72557

In this course, students will develop their creativity and critical thinking skills by collaboratively exploring solutions to problems using science, technology, engineering, and math.  Students will participate in engineering design projects, computer-aided design, and coding throughout their exploration of STEM.  Some projects completed are:

3D printing

Bottle Rockets

VEX IQ Robots and coding

MagLev Cars

Video game programming

STEM II - (6th, 7th & 8th Grade) - 72259, 72260, 72261

You will utilize the skills and knowledge gained from STEM I to continue on more advanced engineering design projects. Students will work collaboratively on exploring computer-aided design (CAD), 3D printing, and robotics in greater detail. Students will engage in project-based learning and have the opportunity to explore and expand their creativity and critical thinking skills through solving problems using science, technology, engineering, and math. Some of the completed projects are:

Trebuchets

Measurement Labs

Bridge Building

3D printing

Laser Cutting

VEX EXP Robots and coding

Student Lighthouse Class:  (6thGrade) - 72101

In this class, students will learn different aspects of leadership and have fun doing so.  This class will also strengthen students’ personal and group leadership skills.  Students will explore different leadership responsibilities and roles throughout the trimester/year, and form action teams to work on different projects that focus on making our school and community a better place to learn, work, play, and live.  This is an application-based class.

Peer-to-Peer Mentorship: ( 7th Grade) - 72010

By working with a Trained Peer to Peer Special Education teacher and being paired with a Special Education student, students will: increase their knowledge about a variety of disabilities through direct instruction, gain an understanding of people with disabilities through supporting them and building relationships, all while developing and increasing problem-solving, communication, and leadership skills during this course.

Research Exploration: Unveiling Your Passion (6th Grade) - 72310

Embark on a captivating journey of exploration and discovery in the Research Exploration elective. This course is designed to empower students to delve into their passions, cultivate essential research skills, and express their findings with confidence and creativity. Students will navigate the exhilarating process of selecting a research topic that resonates with personal interests or reflects a passionate cause. Through guided exploration, students will consider potential career implications and forge connections between their interests and broader academic or professional pursuits.

Join us in the Research Exploration elective and unlock the door to a world of intellectual curiosity, personal growth, and academic achievement. Discover your passion, hone your research skills, and unleash your potential in this exciting and transformative learning journey.

All research topics are subject to approval by the course instructor. 

Life Skills: (8th Grade) - 53203

Life Skills for 8th Graders is an elective course designed to equip students with essential skills necessary for navigating various aspects of life beyond the classroom. Through a combination of interactive lessons, hands-on activities, and real-world applications, students will develop critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and decision-making skills essential for personal and academic success.

Woodshop: (8th Grade) - 72300

Eighth grade WoodShop is a one trimester elective class, offered at Holly HS.  The objective of this class is an introductory class to understand the processes, skills, and techniques of woodworking.  Students will learn safety, then be introduced to hand tools and power tools.  This class will also be an entry-level course for individuals who are interested in taking Construction at Holly HS. 8th grade students would be starting their day at the high school in the morning, then be bussed back to the middle school for 2nd hour and beyond.

Disclaimer:

Classes that run each year are based on student interest.  Some classes listed in the course guide may not be offered each year due to low interest or teacher availability.

Special Education Department

Study Skills  (6th, 7th & 8th Grade) - 73039

This is a course designed to provide specially designed instruction that aligns with the student’s IEP goals and objectives. This course teaches the student study skills, learning strategies, and coping skills that help students organize, process, and use information effectively. Students have the opportunity to work on homework, and unfinished classwork, and receive assistance with projects if needed. 

RR ELA (6th, 7th & 8th Grade) - 51139

This is a course designed to provide specially designed to remediate students’ reading and  writing skills. Students will read and analyze a variety of fiction and non-fiction texts. They will cite evidence from the text and do a variety of writing. Improving critical thinking, speaking, listening and the ability to analyze evidence will be a major part of this Language Arts class. Vocabulary and grammar are incorporated throughout the year also. Students also have the opportunity to work on homework, and unfinished classwork, and receive assistance with projects if needed. 

RR Math  (6th, 7th & 8th Grade) - 52039

This is a course designed to provide specially designed instruction to remediate students’ mathematical skills. The focus of this class will be to expand and remediate the students’ calculation and problem-solving math skills. Math vocabulary and sentence structures are incorporated throughout the year.  Students also have the opportunity to work on homework, and unfinished classwork, and receive assistance with projects if needed. 

 

Stride Learning Solutions

Please discuss course availability when speaking with your counselor regarding scheduling.