Band or Orchestra 7
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 7
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.
Drama 7
This is not your typical Drama class, as the focus of this one-semester class is the dramatic portrayal of a sensational criminal trial. Students are introduced to courtroom drama as they amass an abundance of information on courtroom procedure and due process of law. After becoming familiar with important courtroom vocabulary, listening to professionals share their exciting experiences, and acquiring information about the numerous career opportunities available, the students have the opportunity to visit the Oakland County Courthouse to view actual criminal trials. The content of this class transcends beautifully into other disciplines as we explore what our rights and responsibilities are as part of a democratic judicial system. As we create our personalized scripts and assume the roles of the various figures in a famous trial, a criminal case from the past comes to life on the West Hills stage.
French 7
French 7 is an continuation of the French 6 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.
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.
Design Technology 7
Students expand their creativity and work more independently building upon their technology skills from the introductory course. They learn to choose the appropriate tools and materials for their work. Students make choices regarding independent research on a given topics. They use various techniques to make their projects. Part of their understanding is that they may make the same product using alternative techniques. Course goals include students gaining confidence in using a variety of tools, working in groups, problem solving, and developing safe work habits. Students take part in group assessments as well as self-assessments. All work is detailed and enjoyable. This course encourages all students to succeed.
Introduction to Art 7
This course is a continuation of the introductory art class. Emphasis is on drawing and painting. Projects may include collage, printmaking and digital graphic design as time permits. 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 are explored through connections made in the MYP program. Students take part in constructive critiques. They also reflect upon their creative experiences in brief writing assignments. All work is challenging yet fun. Every student has the opportunity to succeed!
Life Skills 7
Life Skills builds upon the skills exposure given to all 6th graders in Survival Skills. Well-planned tasks require students to define, locate, select, organize, present and evaluate information. Concentration is on individual creativity and the impact on society. Students learn to recognize the extent of technology in their surroundings and in the world. Content includes food preparation, nutrition, consumerism, decision-making, communication, as well as technology and design in clothing construction project.
Physical Education 7
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.
Spanish 7
All students participate in this whole language learning experience using the text “Expresate” and its supplementary materials. Students become acquainted with Spanish grammar and vocabulary skills. They also gain abundant knowledge of the diverse cultures found in the Spanish-speaking world. Students learn interesting facts about family roles, dining habits, holiday celebrations and social mores as they learn to successfully communicate in Spanish. Skit presentations, educational games, videos in Spanish, written quizzes and unique projects create a successful program. This class promotes an appreciation of cultural differences and similarities.
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. |