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Band or Orchestra 6
Sixth grade is the final opportunity for students to begin an instrument in the band or orchestra program.
The Instrumental Music Program at West Hills Middle School is a sequential program that teaches students to play a band or orchestral instrument through the intermediate level. Students are given instruction in the areas of performance, music literacy, listening, analysis, and music history. During this process, students learn to make connections between music of different cultures, and other disciplines.
Each instrument is demonstrated to students. Students learn about the history and technology of the instrument, the care of the instrument, and the fundamentals of playing the instrument. Students learn to read and identify notes and perform them on their instrument. The aim is for students to play with a characteristic tone using correct articulations, phrasing, and dynamics. Instruction is given in rhythmic reading with attention given to understanding of time signatures. Students learn musical terminology, key signature, scales, and ensemble skills. They perform as soloists, and as an ensemble, and in both settings experience the necessary steps to achieve excellence. Students will leave West Hills ready for their high school experience. They will also develop skills to enable them to be life-long learners and lovers of music.
Choir 6
Everyone can sing! Each choir student has the opportunity to explore and develop his or her abilities. Building on the foundation of the elementary music curriculum, emphasis is on fundamental music skills, basic theory, notation, and sight singing, singing on pitch, and singing in parts. Vocal skills and choral ensemble skills are high priorities. Students will develop an appreciation for the arts, gain and refine musical skills, and contribute positively to the musical team.
Design Technology 6
This exploratory course introduces students to many of the components of Technology Education and safe workshop operation. Students have an opportunity to learn about the areas of Industrial Arts and Technology, as well as related careers. The demonstrations and projects are practical applications for the proper use of tools in the classroom. Students use their creativity within guidelines. Lessons incorporate history and technological advancements. Students participate in self-assessment and group assessments in this area. All work is detailed, challenging, and fun. Every student can succeed in this course.
Physical Education 6
All sixth, seventh and eighth grade students participate in the Physical Education Program. Students participate in a variety of team and individual sports experiences. Emphasis is on teamwork, physical development, and social growth. Students learn to respect competition while gaining knowledge and skills of lifelong activities. Students are assessed through national fitness norms, daily participation, effort, and written reflections. Units of Study include Soccer, Ultimate Frisbee, Cross Country Running, Basketball, Pickle ball, Volleyball, Floor Hockey, Team Handball, Badminton, Wall Climbing, Presidential Physical Fitness, Writing Reflections, Kickball, and Flag Football.
French 6
French 6 is an introductory course. Students learn the fundamentals of the French language, essential vocabulary, and acquire listening and speaking skills. Students become familiar with basic grammatical concepts, such as the conjugation of regular verbs. Assessments will include dialogues, written tests, and projects that allow for student creativity and expression. No prior experience with French is necessary. The basic requirements are an open mind and a desire to learn French!
In order to qualify for an MYP certificate at the end of grade 10, students must take the same Language B class (French or Spanish) in grades 6 - 10.
Spanish 6
Throughout this year, students become familiar with Spanish fundamentals through thematic units. They learn to appreciate the diversity among people in Hispanic countries and learn about their cultural practices and traditions. Students learn essential pronunciation and grammar skills through activities, projects and oral presentations. Students play educational games, perform skits, and enjoy watching videos in Spanish. Project assessments include written and oral assessment. A Spanish program highlight includes the production of a fashion show to complement a unit on clothing and colors, and “Feria de Compras”, in which students enjoy an afternoon of shopping in our Mexican Bazaar.
In order to qualify for an MYP certificate at the end of grade 10, students must take the same Language B class (French or Spanish) in grades 6 - 10.
Life Survival Skills 6
All West Hills students experience the hands on lessons taught in survival skills. Multiple instructional strategies provide students with the opportunity to achieve success and develop life management skills that will benefit them throughout their lives. Specific units include babysitting, designing a multicultural doll, laundry techniques, and healthy eating through food group analysis. Students make connections to the outside world through career exploration.
Visual Arts 6
This introductory course focuses on creating works of art with mainly 2-D materials. It introduces the Elements and Principles of Design, which serve as a foundation and carry through all other art courses. Exploration of media may include: drawing and painting, collage, and design. Students have an opportunity to learn about the fine arts and commercial arts as well as related careers. Projects and exercises are intended to serve as outlets for creative self-expression. Historical and cultural aspects, as well as the relevance of other disciplines will be explored through connections made in the MYP program. Students take part in constructive critiques and they reflect upon their creative experiences in brief writing assignments. All work is challenging yet fun. Every student has the opportunity to succeed!
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