• Language Arts, Grade 6
• Language Arts, Grade 7
• Language Arts, Grade 8

_{Language Arts, Grade 6}

Provides instruction in reading from a wide selection of classic, contemporary, and expository texts; requires written composition in a variety of forms, with a clear controlling idea, coherent organization, and sufficient detail; includes research to discover and utilize a variety of relevant sources from which to evaluate, synthesize, and present ideas and information; enhances use of oral and written conventions of the English language in speaking and writing, including grammar, usage, mechanics, vocabulary, and spelling. Summer reading assignments are required. 

_{Language Arts, Grade 7}

Read a variety of genre independently and analyze the connections between the texts and the real world; demonstrate and apply how to paraphrase, evaluate, and summarize information; evaluate the author’s craft through elements of the story, including figurative language, literary elements, imagery, and point of view; determine the meaning of unfamiliar words by using knowledge of roots and affixes; develop writing fluency and writing conventions, including grammar, usage, and mechanics through mini-lessons that incorporate actual student writing; enhance writing skills by learning the writing process: brainstorm, plan, draft, revise, and edit. Improve the ability to access information from a variety of sources to conduct independent research and summarize the information gathered. Summer reading assignments are required.

_{Language Arts, Grade 8}

Build on previously learned concepts, with emphasis on reading, writing, and vocabulary; continue the study of the five basic concepts: reading—read and understand a wide variety of literary and informational texts; writing—compose a variety of written texts with a clear controlling idea, coherent organization, and sufficient detail; research—know how to locate a range of relevant sources and evaluate, synthesize, and present ideas and information; listening and speaking—listen and respond to the ideas of others while contributing ideas in conversations and in groups; oral and written conventions—learn how to use the oral and written conventions of the English language (grammar, usage, mechanics, vocabulary, spelling, and composition) in speaking and writing. Summer AR reading and completion of assignments in conjunction with the reading are required. Summer reading assignments are required.

• Math, Grade 6
• Math, Grade 7
• Math, Grade 8
• Pre-Algebra, Grade 7
• Algebra I, Grade 7
• Algebra I, Grade 8 
• Geometry, Pre-Advanced Placement Geometry, Grade 8 

_{Math, Grade 6}

Continues to build a strong foundation in computational and problem solving skills; focuses on using ratios to describe direction proportional relationships involving number, geometry, measurement, probability, and addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of decimals and fractions; uses statistics, representations of data, reasoning, and concepts of probability to draw conclusions and make predictions; introduces number and operation of integers.

_{Math, Grade 7}

Builds a strong foundation in computational math—particularly with decimals, fractions, and problem solving skills—with a greater emphasis in algebraic thinking; focuses on direct proportional relationships involving number, geometry, percent, measurement, probability, statistics, and beginning algebraic concepts involving addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of integers, and in writing and solving one- and two-step equations with application to real world mathematical situations; uses graphing and some technology to communicate, reason, and apply to real world mathematical situations.

_{Math, Grade 8}

Develops basic principles of algebra to analyze and represent both proportional and non-proportional linear relationships; uses probability to describe data and make predictions; uses concepts, algorithms, and properties of rational numbers to explore mathematical relationships, geometric properties and relationships, and spatial reasoning to model and analyze situations and solve problems; uses statistics, representations of data, reasoning, and concepts of probability to draw conclusions, evaluate arguments, and make recommendations.

_{Pre-Algebra, Grade 7}

Prepares the student for a more intense study in Algebra I and Algebra II; teaches algebraic reasoning, number sense, geometry, measurement, and data analysis and statistics; promotes study of the basic vocabulary of algebra, a variety of methods for solving problems, and the basics of algebra. Prerequisite: End-of-year grade of 80 or higher in grade 6 Math, a 70 or higher on the Total Math sub-score on the ITBS (or comparable standardized test), and a 70 or higher on the end-of-year IWA Middle Level’s math assessment.

_{Algebra I, Grade 7}

Develops proficiency with mathematical skills; expands understanding and application of mathematical concepts; integrates field properties of real numbers and properties of equality as a basis for developing algebraic concepts; promotes intuitive and deductive reasoning combined with algebraic concepts to perform operations with variables, polynomials, linear equations, and inequalities in one and two variables, rational expressions, radicals, and quadratic equations. One (1) high school credit is earned upon successful completion of the course. Prerequisite: End-of-year average of 94.0 or higher in grade 6 math; 94.0 or higher on the Total Math subtest of the ITBS (or comparable standardized test); and a 90 or higher on the end-of-year IWA Middle Level’s math assessment.     

_{Algebra I, Grade 8}

Develops proficiency with mathematical skills; expands understanding and application of mathematical concepts; integrates field properties of real numbers and properties of equality as a basis for developing algebraic concepts; promotes intuitive and deductive reasoning combined with algebraic concepts to perform operations with variables, polynomials, linear equations, and inequalities in one and two variables, rational expressions, radicals, and quadratic equations. One (1) high school credit is earned upon successful completion of the course. Prerequisite: End-of-year average of 80 or higher in grade 7 Pre-Algebra; 70 or higher on the Total Math subtest of the ITBS (or comparable standardized test); and a 70 or higher on the end-of-year IWA Middle Level’s math assessment.

_{Geometry, Pre-Advanced Placement, Grade 8}

Provides opportunities to develop advanced skills in algebraic operations, including the study of plane and spatial relationships, synthetic and coordinate geometry, and the development of geometry as a structured mathematics system; uses formal geometric proofs that require considerable mathematical insight; emphasizes the connections between algebra and geometry. One (1) high school credit is earned upon successful completion of the course. Prerequisite: End-of-year average of 88 or higher in Algebra I, Grade 7.

• Religious Studies – Grade 6
• Religious Studies – Grade 7
• Religious Studies – Grade 8        
• Catechesis of the Good Shepherd – Grade 6
• Catechesis of the Good Shepherd – Grade 7
• Catechesis of the Good Shepherd – Grade 8

_{Religious Studies, Grade 6}

Develops recognition of the value of the Bible in understanding God and the Catholic faith; focuses on the study of the Gospels and the message of Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Word; provides opportunities to develop an understanding and appreciation for the Word of God; teaches the doctrines of the Catholic Church, including its beliefs and practices; includes the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program to provide the opportunity for children to learn to contemplate God.

_{Religious Studies, Grade 7}

Develops recognition of the value of the Bible in understanding God and the Catholic faith; focuses on the teachings of the Gospels in the New Testament and the message of Jesus Christ, the Incarnate Word; provides a basis for familiarity with the Gospel messages, Catholic Church teachings and traditions, and learning the responsibilities of living a spiritual and moral life; provides study of the life of Jesus and His examples of serving others; includes the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program to provide the opportunity for children to learn to contemplate God.

_{Religious Studies, Grade 8}

Focuses on the teachings of the Gospels and the study of Catholic Church history; provides familiarity with the Bible and the teachings of the Catholic Church; encourages students to become active participants in the Liturgy and to grow in their commitment to share their spiritual gifts and to provide service to others; includes the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd program to provide the opportunity for children to learn to contemplate God.

_{Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, Grade 6}

Focuses on the Hebrew People and their scriptures and worship; explores the Judaic Covenant and the roots of Christian scriptures and liturgy; provides study of the Old Testament; includes a visit to a local synagogue and the experience of a Seder.  

_{Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, Grade 7}

Continued study across the timeline of Salvation History to the Moment of Redemption; provides a framework for contemplation of the Gospels and the Sacraments of Christianity through the mysteries of the Rosary. 

_{Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, Grade 8}

Introduces and allows practice in various forms of individual and communal prayer to assist students in their understanding of their personal spiritual journey; guides students toward an on-going personal and rich prayer life; provides guidance for companionship, models, and inspiration for personal journeys through The Communion of Saints; continues the study across the timeline of Salvation History to the Moment of Redemption; provides a framework for contemplation of the Gospels and the Sacraments of Christianity through the mysteries of the Rosary; supports an on-going personal and rich prayer life and understanding of one’s own spiritual journey; introduces various forms of individual and communal prayer, with the opportunity for practice of such prayer.

• Science, Grade 6
• Science, Grade 7
• Science, Grade 8
• Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC), Grade 8
• Pre-AP Biology, Grade 8

_{Science, Grade 6}

Provides the study of lab safety, scientific method, lab and measurement skills, collecting and reporting data, use of lab equipment, the nature of solids, liquids and gases, physical and chemical properties of matter, elements, compounds and mixtures, potential vs. kinetic energy, temperature vs. heat, distance-time-speed, the periodic table, forces and motions, simple machines, energy resources, minerals and rocks, the rock cycle, plate tectonics, mountain building, volcanoes and earthquakes, comparative anatomy, animal dissections, and the solar system (formation and contents); integrates participation in lab activities in order to put into practice what has been learned. 

_{Science, Grade 7}

Provides an integrated approach to science, building on topics introduced in 6th grade science; includes an in-depth study of the scientific method; emphasizes study and practice of lab safety, scientific measurement and conversions, and the use of laboratory instruments and apparatus; presents topics through discussion, lab experiences, and computer simulations; includes study of the following: chemical vs. physical changes, density, cells and their functions, cell organelles, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, organic compounds present in living things, mitosis, meiosis, basic genetics, natural selection, human body systems, animal behavior, dissections and comparative anatomy, food chains and pyramids, ecology basics, biomes, water cycle, weathering, erosion and deposition, origin of the universe, creation of our solar system, and space exploration. 

_{Science, Grade 8}

Focuses on an integration of chemistry, physics, and life science; provides instruction in safety rules, measurement techniques, graphing and recording analysis, and interpretation of data; topics of study include chemical interactions, motion, energy, waves and coding for robots; prepares the student for high school sciences, with an emphasis on integration of chemistry into the life sciences.  

_{Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC), Grade 8}

Integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry in the following topics: motion, waves, energy transformations, properties of matter, changes in matter, and solution chemistry; through the study of chemistry: address balanced chemical equations, reaction types, and use of the periodic table; through the study of physics: calculate various motion and force problems, describe the relationship of waves and energy, and interpret how light and mirrors interact. One (1) high school credit is earned upon successful completion of the course. Prerequisite: End-of-year average of 80 or higher in Grade 7 science and an end-of-year average of 80 or higher in Pre-Algebra, Grade 7.

_{Pre-AP Biology, Grade 8}

This course provides opportunities for the highly motivated student. It includes a more rigorous study of the unity of living things by focusing on the similarity and interrelatedness of all organisms through cell structure and function, biochemistry, heredity, evolution, and ecology. Inquiry-based labs are included, where students design and conduct their own experimental procedures, integrating science, computing, and mathematics skills. Communication, collaboration, and self-evaluation are cultivated with the aim to prepare students to succeed in high school and college level courses. 

• Geography, Grade 6
• Texas History, Grade 7
• American History to 1877, Grade 8

_{Geography, Grade 6}

Study concepts in physical and human geography; understand the Earth’s physical and human diversity by region; analyze population and settlement patterns and evaluate the ways human activities modify the physical environment; compare development, standards of living, systems of government, and economic factors across the globe; understand global cultures and the historical factors that have shaped the world; develop critical thinking and problem solving skills while investigating physical geography, climate, economy, culture, political systems, and demographics of modern countries; study the earth in all its variety and encompass the five themes of geography: location, place, human/environment interaction, movement, and region; create maps, analyze data, and study major regions of the world.  

_{Texas History, Grade 7}

Survey the history of Texas from the arrival of the first humans to the modern period; provides general historical information, with an emphasis on important periods of Texas history: Natural Texas and its People, Age of Contact Era, Spanish Colonial Era, Mexican National Era, Texas Revolution and Republic Era, Texas Early Statehood Era, Civil War and Reconstruction Era, Cattle, Cotton, Railroads, and Oil, Great Depression, Contemporary Era. 

_{American History to 1877, Grade 8}

This course, whose study concludes in high school, is the first part of a two-year study of U.S History. Surveys the following: American history from its beginning through Reconstruction; the Constitution; geography; political science; basic economic principles; the effect of technological innovations on U. S. history; the impact of selected American leaders on U. S. history; and current events. Skills emphasized include analyzing, evaluating, and interpreting historical events, as well as making predictions and drawing conclusions as to the importance and significance of historical events and people on the United States today.

• Wellness, Grade 6
• Wellness, Grade 7
• Wellness, Grade 8

_{Wellness, Grade 6}

Provides opportunities to increase movement-competence, useful physical skills, health and nutrition-related personal fitness, and social development; introduces basic skills, strategies, and concepts of team sports; develops positive self-concept and personal values; builds safety skills and attitudes.

_{Wellness, Grade 7}

Provides opportunities to increase and improve motor skills; enhances knowledge in strength, flexibility, muscular endurance, and aerobic fitness; teaches how to independently set physical activity goals; develops positive self-concept and personal values; builds safety skills and attitudes; promotes lifelong participation in wholesome recreational activities.

_{Wellness, Grade 8}

Promotes movement-competence, useful physical skills, health and nutrition-related personal fitness, and social development; introduces basic skills, strategies, and concepts of team sports; develops positive self-concept and personal values; builds safety skills and attitudes; promotes lifelong participation in wholesome recreational activities.

• Art, Grade 6
• Art, Grade 7
• Art, Grade 8
• Athletics, Grade 7
• Athletics, Grade 8
• Language Other Than English: Spanish, Grade 6 
• Language Other Than English: Spanish, Grade 7
• Language Other Than English: Spanish I, Grade 8
• Math and Science Skills, Grade 8
• Music Introduction to Music, Grade 6
• Music Introduction to Music, Grade 7
• Technology: Computer Applications, Grades 6, 7, and 8
• Technology: Keyboarding, Grade 6

_{Art, Grade 6}

Introduces basic techniques for drawing, particularly through use of drawing pencils, color pencils, markers, and pastels; explores the relationship between colors, as demonstrated in the color wheel.

_{Art, Grade 7}

Introduces basic techniques in painting, through the use of acrylic and watercolors.  Further explores the relationship between colors.

_{Art, Grade 8}

Explores the historical culture of specific art forms and introduces various mediums, including oil pastels, watercolors, drawing pencils, acrylic painting, the color theory, linear design and shading techniques, collage, and sculpture. 

_{Athletics, Grades 7 and 8}

Students who participate in any IWA Middle Level sport are enrolled in this class.  The class promotes year-round fitness for athletes and focuses on cardiovascular and muscular endurance activities to maintain optimal physical condition for in-season and off-season sports.

_{Spanish, Grade 6} 

Provides students a positive experience in learning Spanish; focuses on listening, speaking, reading, writing, and the culture of the various Spanish-speaking countries; introduces concepts through a variety of methods.

_{Spanish, Grade 7}

A continuation of Spanish, Grade 6. Focuses on listening, speaking, reading, writing, and the culture of the various Spanish-speaking countries; introduces concepts through a variety of methods.

_{Spanish I, Grade 8} 

Fosters an increased appreciation of the Hispanic influence on American culture, as well as the history of Mexico and other Spanish–speaking countries; emphasizes reading, writing, and active oral communication skills. Yearlong course. One (1) high school credit is earned upon successful completion of the course. Pre-Requisite: End-of-semester average of 95 or higher in Grade 7 Spanish.

_{Math and Science Skills, Grade 8}

Reinforces math and science concepts in a small group setting. Enrollment is only by recommendation of math and science teachers, with administrative approval.  Placement is assigned quarterly and may be for as short a period as two weeks per quarter or may be for the entire quarter.

_{Music: Introduction to Music, Grade 6}

Learn the basics of reading music; listen to and identify instruments and pitches; learn to properly perform basic music (vocal and instrumental); learn about various composers, musical periods, and styles.

_{Music: Introduction to Music, Grade 7}

Learn/review the basics of reading music; listen to and identify various aspects of music (i.e. pitch, rhythm, instruments); learn to perform, using various instruments (voice, percussion, keyboard, etc.); learn about various composers, musical periods, and musical genres.  

_{Technology: Computer Applications, Grades 6, 7, and 8}

Introduces the role of computer technology:

• Teaches students to identify the basic hardware components of a computer and the purpose of each. 
• Promotes proficiency in keyboarding. 
• Demonstrates proficiency in using the productivity software Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Publisher and Access Database applications) and how to properly save work to various locations (student H drive, Gmail, and Flash drive)
• Teaches the basics of the following programs in Microsoft Office:
  • Word: promotes the computer creation of professional-quality documents, reports, letters, and résumés, using spell check, grammar check, text and font formatting, HTML support, image support, and advanced page layout.
  • Excel: incorporates advanced computer skills and statistical analysis tools to determine effective data display with charts, applies logic in decision-making, including spreadsheet concepts, formulas and functions, and formatting worksheets and cells. 
  • PowerPoint: enhances delivery presentations with text, pictures, videos, and/or animated text and images; instructs on how to use presentation features, including slide transitions, animations, layouts, and templates. 
  • Publisher: promotes advanced knowledge and skills in the correct use of a variety of desktop publishing software, terms and concepts, text, graphics, and page format.

_{Technology: Keyboarding, Grade 6}

Provides the opportunity to learn the touch-type system on the computer keyboard, using correct techniques to develop accuracy and speed; introduces the formatting of personal and business letters, tables, graphs, notes, memos, reports, and PowerPoint.