NORTH PENN SCHOOL DISTRICT
Middle School
Program of Studies
2012/2013
A Course Information Guide for
Grade 7 • Grade 8
Pennbrook Middle School
Penndale Middle School
Pennfield Middle School
Philosophy For
The Middle Schools
Welcome to
Your School
We, the administration, faculty, and board of school directors,
with the support of the community, recognize the uniqueness and
demands of the emerging adolescent and seek to provide experiences
which enhance individual development and assist the student in
learning societal responsibilities.
This Middle School Program of Studies has been
designed to help students and their parents plan an
academic program that stimulates curiosity and
motivates students to explore new areas of learning.
During the middle school years, students and parents
have their first opportunity to select courses based on
students’ needs, interests, and abilities.
Middle school students need a wide range of easily accessible
learning opportunities. Therefore, we strive:
1. To provide a climate in which the focus of the program is
the student.
2. To help each student acquire mastery of the basic skills.
3. To teach students to evaluate and apply various kinds
of information with which they come in daily contact.
We encourage students and parents to carefully review
the Program of Studies and the recommendations
made by teachers on the course selection card.
Teachers, counselors and administrators are available
to assist in this process.
4. To provide experiences for students to see the relationship
between academic principles and their application for
the future.
5. To foster a positive attitude toward the learning process.
6. To encourage the development of individual achievement.
7. To provide opportunities for students based on their needs
and interests.
Teaming of Students
A critical attribute of the middle level philosophy is teaming, the
creation of small communities by assigning a common set of
students to a specified number of teachers for a common core of
subjects and a common block of time.
Seventh grade students and teachers will be organized into teams for
English, math, reading, science and social studies; Eighth grade
students and teachers into teams for English, math, science and social
studies. All students will be required to take a variety of exploratory
courses so that they can experience diverse opportunities as they
define their interests, strengths and capabilities. Identified eligible
7th and 8th grade students, who are in need of specially designed
instruction, will be provided Special Education or Gifted classes as
determined by the Individual Education Program (IEP).
8. To encourage appreciation and develop skills in the arts and
humanities.
9. To provide experiences for students to practice good health,
safety, and family living skills.
10. To provide a variety of both structured and informal physical
and cocurricular activities appropriate to the student’s age
and development.
This program should assist the adolescent in the transition from
childhood dependence to adult independence. Therefore we strive:
1. To help every student develop self-understanding and
a feeling of self-worth.
2. To provide a positive environment emphasizing an
understanding and appreciation of others.
3. To provide constructive outlets to help the adolescent resolve
conflict.
POLICY STATEMENT
All activities and courses, including technology education,
vocational-technical education, family consumer science, and
physical education courses at North Penn School District are
available to all students as required by Title VI, Title IX and
Section 504. If there are prerequisites, they are based on
ability and aptitude, not on race, color, national origin, sex or
any handicapping conditions. If you are physically or
mentally handicapped, you may qualify for special services
and instruction, and equipment modifications so you can
successfully complete the course or participate in any activity.
If you have questions about equal educational opportunities
or complaints, contact Title IX Officer, Curtis R. Dietrich,
at the Educational Services Center, 401 East Hancock
Street, Lansdale, PA 19446 (215-368-0400).
4. To promote an awareness of and continuing participation in
constructive leisure activities.
5. To develop individual awareness of and responsibility for group
rights, attitudes, and actions.
6. To use discipline as a learning experience through which the
student accepts responsibility for his/her behavior.
7. To promote good citizenship through the understanding of
and participation in the democratic process.
Responsibility for the success of this program will be shared by the
home, the community, and the school. Therefore, we strive:
1. To provide planned opportunities for continuous staff
improvement in order to achieve the program goals.
2. To establish a total school environment which promotes the
exchange of ideas among administrators, teachers, parents,
students, and other interested community members.
—2—
SEVENTH GRADE COURSES
CLASS OF 2018
An 8-period day utilizing a 6-day cycle
REQUIRED COURSES
Major Areas
English
Social Studies
Mathematics
Science
Reading/Study Skills
Minor Areas
Art Foundations 1
Exploratory Language OR Reading Support
(if recommended by reading specialist)
Family and Consumer Science
Health
Music Performance classes (Band, Chorus, Orchestra) OR Exploring Music
Physical Education
Reading Support
Technology 7 – Introduction to Technology and Computer Applications 1
EIGHTH GRADE COURSES
CLASS OF 2017
An 8-period day utilizing a 6-day cycle
REQUIRED COURSES
Major Areas
English
Social Studies
Mathematics
Science
World Language* OR Business and Banking Concepts OR Reading 8 Extended
Minor Areas
Art Foundations 2
Computer Applications 2
Exploring Technology
Family and Consumer Science
Health
Music Performance classes (Band, Chorus, Orchestra) OR Exploring Music
Physical Education
Reading Support
* World Language could be Latin 1, Spanish 1, French 1 or German 1.
—3—
INTRODUCTION
Procedure For Course Selection
Guidance counselors will speak to students about the course selection
process. Students will learn how to use the Course Information Guide
and the Course Selection Card. Students will also learn about
required courses and electives they may choose. In seventh grade,
students may select a performing music course, including band,
chorus, orchestra, or a non-performing course, Exploring Music. In
eighth grade, students have a few more choices. For their fifth major
subject they may choose a language (French, German, Latin,
Spanish), Business and Banking Concepts, or Reading. They must
also choose one music course as they did in seventh grade.
Counselors will provide opportunities for students to ask questions
about the course selection process. Changes in course requests may
be made by contacting the student’s guidance counselor. The final
date for course changes is June 30, 2012.
Course Code Explanation For
English, Social Studies,
Mathematics, and Science
Counseling Services
Counseling services are aimed at helping each student to have the
most successful school experience possible. Students are encouraged
to expand their knowledge by building upon previous experiences,
developing a deeper understanding of their strengths and needs, and
gaining an understanding of themselves and their relationship to the
changing world in which they live.
The guidance curriculum consists of structured experiences presented
systematically through classroom and group activities. The purpose of
the curriculum is to provide all students with information to plan and
manage their own personal and career development, as well as their
ongoing learning.
Counselors work with students in large and small groups as well as
individually. With parental permission, students who wish to work
with others on finding solutions to concerns that prevent them from
doing their best in school will have group counseling opportunities.
A four digit code is assigned to all courses. In English, Social Studies,
Math, and Science, students and parents should be aware that the
digits in each number have a specific meaning. For clarification, an
example is provided below.
Counselors are responsible for coordinating standardized test(s) such
as the Pennsylvania System of School Assessment (PSSA) in grades
seven, eight and nine. Following receipt of test results, interpretation
of results is offered.
Example: 0075
The first digit represents the subject area.
English: 0
Math: 2
Social Studies: 1
Science: 3
Students may arrange for an appointment by completing a request
form in the counseling center. If the need for a conference is urgent,
students are asked to alert the guidance secretary who will see that a
counselor contacts the student as soon as possible.
Reading:
4
0075
The second digit may represent the team. Team
assignments are not made until after the course selection
process is completed. On students’ final schedules, the
“0” could be replaced by the number 1, 2, 3, 4. Each
number would represent a team.
0075
The third digit represents the grade: (7) or (8).
The Counseling Center has a number of excellent resources to help
parents work with adolescents. These resources are available to
parents who wish to borrow them.
Promotional Requirements
Grades 7 & 8
0075
The fourth digit represents the level.
Regular Education
Special Education
E: extended
1: learning support
5: high academic
2: learning support
6H: honors
3: learning support
6P: high potential
8: English as a Second Language
Course Leveling
There are 3 levels of courses offered to students in regular
education:
Level 5 courses include those identified as being challenging.
Teachers move at a moderate pace, and the course is designed for
the student who has a good command of the basic skills.
Level 6H (honors) courses include those identified as being
accelerated. They are designed for the student who has a strong
command of the basic skills and is able to meet the demands of an
accelerated course.
Level 6P (high potential) courses include those identified as
being the most challenging. They are designed for the student
who has a solid academic foundation and is able to tap into their
full potential.
Students who successfully pass all required major subjects (with the
exception of foreign language, business and reading support) are
assured promotion to the next grade. Students who fail one or two
subjects must remediate the subject either in the North Penn summer
school program or through an approved private tutoring program
before moving to the next grade. The tutoring program consists of
securing 30 hours of tutoring in each failed subject (maximum of
two) by a tutor who holds state certification in the tutored subject.
Following the tutoring, the student must pass the Goal One final
examination in the failed subject(s). Students will not be permitted to
repeat these courses during the regular school year. Students who fail
three or more major subject courses may repeat the grade.
Students are recommended for these levels by their teachers. Teachers
use many factors to determine the appropriate level for each student.
These factors include performance and skill level. We strongly
encourage parents to call teachers or guidance counselors when they
have a question about a student’s recommended levels.
—4—
paragraph compositions along with essay writing. The components of
good writing are taught and re-enforced.
Course Descriptions
Art
Family and Consumer Science
Seventh Grade
Seventh Grade
ART FOUNDATIONS 1
8670
This course offers a more expanded and challenging level to the
developmental sequence established in the elementary art education
program. This curriculum will foster and promote deeper
understanding and demonstration of the fundamental elements and
principles of art, growth in the student’s visual expression through art
production processes, and the continued development of an aesthetic
sensitivity integrated with art heritage and art criticism.
This introductory course encourages students to utilize technology to
develop skills for self-sufficiency. Emphasis is placed on activity-based
experiences in the areas of nutrition, food science, consumerism and
project construction.
Eighth Grade
ART FOUNDATIONS 2
8880
The eighth grade Art Foundations 2 course expands the seventh grade
Art Foundations 1 course to develop a sequential art education
program in preparing students for selection of art electives in ninth
grade. This curriculum will promote a deeper understanding of the
elements and principles of art, a better understanding of the creative
process through art production, and the continued development of
aesthetic sensitivity.
Business Administration
and Technology
Eighth Grade
8885
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS 2
As a continuation of what is learned in Computer Applications 1,
students will learn intermediate word processing features. Students
will also learn the introduction aspects of Spreadsheets using
Microsoft Excel.
Eighth Grade
BUSINESS AND BANKING CONCEPTS
5584
Through the integration of technology, this course is designed to
introduce students to the role of business in the American economic
system. Topics covered will include banking, budgeting, insurance,
credit, consumerism, careers, and how they relate to business and you.
Additional resources will be used to reinforce the concepts learned.
English
Seventh Grade
0075, 0076H, 0076P
Seventh grade English meets six periods per cycle. The course continues
the study of vocabulary and speech and integrates the study of
punctuation and grammar. In writing, emphasis is placed upon the
development of the paragraph through relevant details and concluding
sentences, with a review of the topic sentences as needed. The literature
focus is on various literary types (novel, short story, essay, drama, poetry)
and includes the common literary terms associated with those types.
Eighth Grade
0085, 0086H, 0086P
Eighth grade English continues the emphasis upon grammatical skills
introduced in grade seven. The program provides an integrated study
of vocabulary and ensures a wide variety of reading experiences. Eighth
grade literature emphasizes the skill of analyzing literary works for
plot, setting, conflict, and theme. Writing is often literature-based but
includes other writing experiences. Much emphasis is placed on multi-
8681
Eighth graders are challenged to improve the quality of individual,
family, and community life through this activities-based course.
Demonstrations, discussions, and hands-on lab activities explore the
areas of child development, consumerism/merchandising, careers,
gerontology, food preparation and project construction.
Health
Seventh Grade
Eighth Grade
7270
7280
Health education is required for all seventh and eighth grade students.
Some of the units of study included in the health curriculum are: body
systems, harmful substances (alcohol, tobacco, and drugs), diseases,
safety, and AIDS education. Health instruction will emphasize
awareness of healthful practices and decisions leading to a wholesome,
productive life.
Seventh and Eighth Grade
TECHNOLOGY 7 – COMPUTER APPLICATIONS 1
8872
Students will learn beginning word processing skills using Microsoft
Word and will learn PowerPoint. Students will then have the skills
necessary to use this software to complete report writing and
formatting and to create presentations to complete assignments given
to them in other courses.
8871
Mathematics
The mathematics program offers a variety of courses designed to
accommodate and appropriately develop mathematical proficiency.
Courses within the middle school are part of the mathematical
sequence in which students make the transition from arithmetic skills
and concepts to the more abstract study of algebra and geometry. All
courses taught within the mathematics program will include skills
developed through a study of concepts, real-world applications, and
problem solving experiences.
Seventh Grade
ALGEBRA 1
2716
This accelerated mathematics course will be offered to selected seventh
grade students who meet the established criteria for exceptional
mathematical ability and interest and who demonstrated an
understanding of pre-algebraic concepts. This course will develop basic
algebraic concepts, principles, and manipulations. The curriculum will
be the same as that of all district Algebra I courses, although the depth
of study and rate of progress is greater than courses offered at later
grade levels. Major topics include functions, linear equations and
inequalities, exponents, polynomials, factoring, graphing, quadratic
equations, proportions, radicals and applications.
MATHEMATICS 7
2075E, 2075, 2076
This course is designated for all students not enrolled in Algebra I.
Major topics include signed numbers, equalities, number theory, ratio,
proportion and percent, two-dimensional geometry, data analysis,
statistics, probability and applications. Depth of study and enrichment
topics will vary by level. Most students enrolled in the 6.0 level will
take Algebra I in eighth grade while students in the 5.0 level will
continue with Pre-Algebra 8. The 2075E (Math Extended) course is
specifically designed for students who are non-proficient in
Mathematics. 2075E meets for 8 periods per cycle and mirrors the
curriculum of the 2075 course.
Eighth Grade
GEOMETRY
2206A
This course includes the study of plane and solid figures, similarity,
congruence, postulates, theorems, use of mathematical proof,
constructions, area, and volume. The concepts of space geometry
—5—
(solid) are introduced in the course and used thereafter. Students are
also introduced to elementary ideas of plane analytical geometry.
Algebra topics are included periodically throughout this course.
Prerequisite: Algebra 1 with a final grade of B or higher.
ALGEBRA 1
2086
This accelerated mathematics course will be offered to selected eighth
grade students who demonstrate an understanding of pre-algebraic
concepts. This course will develop basic algebraic concepts, principles,
and manipulations. The curriculum will be the same as that of all
district Algebra I courses, although the depth of study and rate of
progress is greater than courses offered at later grade levels. Major
topics include functions, linear equations and inequalities, exponents,
polynomials, factoring, graphing, quadratic equations, proportions,
radicals, and applications.
Prerequisite: Mathematics 7 with a final grade of B or higher, and
a qualifying score on the Algebra/Geometry Prognosis Test.
PRE-ALGEBRA 8
2085E, 2085
This course is designated for students not enrolled in Algebra I or
Geometry. Major topics include equalities and inequalities,
proportional reasoning, coordinate and three-dimensional geometry,
data analysis, statistics, probability and applications. Students in this
course could elect Algebra or Algebra/Geometry 1 in ninth grade.The
2085E (Math Extended) course is specifically designed for students
who are non-proficient in Mathematics. 2085E meets for 8 periods per
cycle and mirrors the curriculum of the 2085 course.
Music
will receive hands-on experience using music software in the music
technology lab.
MUSIC PERFORMANCE CLASSES
8683 Band
8684 Chorus
8685 Orchestra
The music performance classes, offered in 8th grade, include a choice of
either concert band (including a marching band component), mixed
chorus or orchestra. Appropriate music is chosen for its appeal as well
as its educational and aesthetic value. Mandatory performances and
rehearsals are scheduled outside of the school day as part of
the curriculum.
All instrumental students will be assigned to a small group for lessons.
These required lessons are organized and function according to the
needs of the student. Each group will meet once per cycle and will be
scheduled on a rotating schedule from other regularly scheduled classes.
Many cocurricular ensembles will be scheduled by audition from the
larger performing groups. Cocurricular groups may include: jazz band,
wind ensemble, brass ensemble, percussion ensemble, treble chorus,
male chorus, and string ensembles. Students will receive hands-on
experience using music software in the music technology lab.
8686
EXPLORING MUSIC – GRADE EIGHT
Students will explore the historical aspects of early music up to the
20th century. Activities will include studying and evaluating music and
will provide opportunities for creating and performing music in a
classroom setting. Students will receive hands-on experience using
music software in the music technology lab.
Physical Education
Seventh Grade
Students in seventh grade may choose a performing music class or a
non-performing music class. Performing music classes include Band,
Chorus or Orchestra. Students should read the requirements for
performing music carefully before choosing the course they would
like. The non-performing music class includes Related Fine Arts.
Students will receive hands-on experience using music software in the
music technology lab.
MUSIC PERFORMANCE CLASSES
8673 Band
8674 Chorus
8675 Orchestra
The music performance classes, offered in 7th grade, include a choice of
either the grade level concert band, mixed chorus or orchestra.
Appropriate music is chosen for its appeal as well as its educational and
aesthetic value. Some performances and rehearsals are scheduled
outside of the school day as part of the curriculum.
All instrumental students will be assigned to a small group for lessons.
These required lessons are organized and function according to the
needs of the student. Each group will meet once per cycle and will be
scheduled on a rotating schedule from other regularly scheduled classes.
Many cocurricular ensembles will be scheduled by audition from the
larger performing groups. Cocurricular groups may include: jazz band,
wind ensemble, brass ensemble, percussion ensemble, treble chorus,
male chorus, and string ensembles. Students will receive hands-on
experience using music software in the music technology lab.
8676
EXPLORING MUSIC — GRADE SEVEN
The course explores musical elements, careers, music of diverse
cultures, and American musical theater and film. This course prepares
students for the understanding of music as a life skill. Opportunities for
creativity and performance are included. Students will receive hands-on
experience using music software in the music technology lab.
Eighth Grade
Students in eighth grade may choose a performing music class or a
non-performing music class. Performing music classes include Band,
Chorus or Orchestra. The non-performing music class is Related Fine
Arts. Students should read the requirements for performing music
carefully before choosing the course they would like. Students
7th BOYS 7071
8th BOYS 7081
7th GIRLS 7072
8th GIRLS 7082
Physical education is required for all seventh and eighth grade
students. The physical activities will help to improve each student’s
basic skill level as he/she is motivated to attain physical fitness levels.
The student must meet uniform and participation requirements.
7100
ADAPTED PHYSICAL EDUCATION
This course is offered for those students who, for medical reasons,
need special physical activities.
Reading
Seventh Grade
READING AND STUDY SKILLS
4077
Daily reading instruction for all seventh grade students is based on the
premise that a strong foundation in reading is necessary to facilitate
learning in all content areas and to promote lifetime reading. Students
will read and respond to selections from the Literature-in-ReadingProgram and content area texts. Emphasis is given to the continuing
development of students as strategic readers of both narrative and
informational texts. The study skills component includes organizational
skills, note taking, test taking, time management, and research skills.
READING 7 EXTENDED
4077E
This 8-period per cycle required course is designed for seventh grade
students who are not proficient and/or not meeting grade level
standards based upon a rubric that includes PSSA scores, final exam
grades, class grades and benchmark assessments. The course curriculum
is specifically designed to provide the necessary support, skills and
additional time (2 additional periods per cycle) in working toward
Reading proficiency.
8470
READING INTENSIVE
A reading specialist provides small group instruction two times per
cycle for those students recommended for additional reading
instruction. Emphasis is placed on using the reading strategies needed
to be successful in all content areas. Students who qualify will take
Reading Support in place of Exploratory Language.
—6—
Technology Education
Eighth Grade
READING 8 EXTENDED
4084E
This 8-period per cycle required course is designed as a fifth major for
eighth grade students who are not proficient and/or not meeting grade
level standards based upon a rubric that includes PSSA scores, final
exam grades, class grades and benchmark assessments. The course
curriculum is specifically designed to provide the necessary support,
skills and additional time (2 additional periods per cycle) in working
toward Reading proficiency.
Courses in technology education reflect innovations, technological
systems, resources, and products related to technology. Technology
education explores the social, cultural, and environmental impacts of
technological developments in the world. Opportunity is provided in
classroom and laboratory settings for students to develop knowledge,
skills, and attitudes regarding technology. The technology education
program is designed to insure that citizens are prepared to live in and
contribute to a competitive and complex technological society.
Seventh Grade
READING SUPPORT 8
8480
A reading specialist provides small group instruction two times per
cycle for those students recommended for additional reading
instruction. Emphasis is placed on using the reading strategies needed
to be successful in all content areas.
TECHNOLOGY 7 – INTRO TO TECHNOLOGY
8872
This is an introductory course which explores the three systems of
technology (physical, informational and bio-chemical related).
Students will understand the key concepts of technology education
through research and hands-on problem solving activities.
Eighth Grade
Science
Required Courses
Seventh Grade
LIFE SCIENCE
3075, 3076H, 3076P
The seventh grade life science course concentrates on the
interrelationships among all living things. Students learn about the
scientific method, basic laboratory skills, similarities between plant and
animal cells, basic genetics, taxonomy, the developmental stages of life
and the plant and animal kingdoms. Laboratory investigations are an
integral part of this course.
Eighth Grade
EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE
3085, 3086H, 3086P
This course introduces the students to various aspects of the earth and
the universe. Four major areas are discussed: astronomy, geology,
meteorology, and oceanography. Using the scientific method and
laboratory techniques, students will be encouraged to discover certain
laws and theories applicable to earth and space science.
Social Studies
Seventh Grade
WORLD CULTURES & GEOGRAPHY – 7 1075, 1076H, 1076P
The World Cultures grade seven course reflects PA standards in civics
and government, economics, history, and geography. This course will
include the study of the people, places and cultures within the Eastern
and Western hemispheres.
Eighth Grade
AMERICAN HISTORY – 8
1085, 1086H, 1086P
The eighth grade social studies curriculum reflects the PA standards in
civics and government, economics, geography, and history. These
standards will be integrated into the historical period of 1840–1914
providing opportunities for in-depth study of social reform
movements, the Civil War, the Constitutional amendments and case
law that follows, Reconstruction, growth of organized labor, the
Spanish-American War, immigration, Progressive era, and the
emergence of the United States as a world power. Civics, economics,
and geography will be integrated into this historical study in addition
to a focused look at Pennsylvania history. The research process,
integral to the social studies, is included in this curriculum. Students
will be responsible for an upload of their paper to Turnitin.com.
EXPLORING TECHNOLOGY
8682
This is an activities-based course exploring the three systems of
technology (physical, informational and bio-chemical related). Student
activities include how technological problems are solved and the
impact of technology on environment and society. Students will
understand how humans design, create and use technology by
developing solutions to technological problems.
World Language
Seventh Grade
EXPLORATORY LANGUAGE
8400
Exploratory Language courses are offered in the seventh grade. The
students are provided with initial learning opportunities in Spanish,
French, German, and Latin for one marking period each. Fundamental
communication skills and culture are emphasized. The purpose of the
program is to help the students make a more informed decision in their
choice of language for eighth grade. Students assigned to remedial
math and/or reading may not be scheduled for Exploratory Language.
Eighth Grade
LATIN 1
4115A
FRENCH 1
4315A
SPANISH 1
4215A
GERMAN 1
4415A
A student may begin the study of a foreign language in either eighth
or ninth grade by choosing one of four languages: Spanish, French,
German, or Latin.
World language courses successfully completed in grade eight are
recorded on the official high school transcript.
In the first level of each of these languages, students are introduced to
the four basic skills of language learning—listening, speaking, reading,
and writing. Students spend much class time in listening/speaking
activities. Teachers emphasize the ability to distinguish and produce
the basic sounds of each language. Audiovisual aids such as tapes and
CDs which are recorded by native speakers, cue cards, posters, videos
and transparencies are used. Computer software, films, internet access,
stories and songs in the target language bring the culture and customs
of the people into the classroom.
Grammar is introduced as well as elementary vocabulary words.
Because repetition and practice are very important in the first stages of
a language, homework can be expected regularly. Tests are given at
the end of each unit and students are graded on the basis of daily
work, ability to speak the new language, and test results.
We strongly recommend that students choose two languages on
their course selection card. Students should identify their first
choice by placing a “1” next to the appropriate language and a
“2” next to their second choice.
—7—
Special Education
The special education program is designed to allow eligible and/or
exceptional students the opportunity to reach their potential. Specially
designed instruction may be provided in a Learning Support,
Emotional Support, Life Skills Support, or Gifted Support Program,
depending on the student’s individual needs.
In order to meet the criteria for special education consideration, a
multidisciplinary team convenes to complete a Comprehensive
Evaluation and to provide recommendations to an Individualized
Education Program Team (IEP). The IEP team determines the student’s
eligibility. If the student is determined to need specially designed
instruction, the IEP team provides the exceptional student the most
appropriate educational program and placement. Regulations for such
placement are established by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania.
Students are re-evaluated every three years to decide the continued
appropriateness of their special education program. Eligible students
may receive services until they are twenty-one.
Program Descriptions
Seventh and Eighth Grade
LEARNING SUPPORT AND/OR
EMOTIONAL SUPPORT
The program is designed to group eligible students according to like
abilities and needs. Those students with the greatest needs in a
particular subject are scheduled into smaller classes. The program is by
design more individualized. Conversely, less needy students have more
opportunities for large group instruction in preparation for general
education. Students are not restricted to special education courses.
Flexibility in scheduling is encouraged for students who demonstrate
that they have acquired sufficient skills to participate in other classes
offered at their middle school.
Although the emphasis of the program is on academic skill
development, the need to improve emotional stability and social
interaction skills is recognized.
ESL Program
ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE
The North Penn School District recognizes its responsibility to offer
programs for the diverse population it serves. English as a Second
Language (ESL) is provided for those students whose native language
is not English. Students are tested for their English proficiency levels,
then receive ESL instruction commensurate with their ESL needs.
According to the individual’s needs, ESL courses and/or support are
offered. The primary goal of the ESL program is to provide students
with the English language skills needed to function in the classes
offered in the school’s curriculum.
Course codes follow:
Seventh Grade ESL
English (single period). . . . . .0078
English (double period). . . 0008A
Social Studies. . . . . . . . . . . . 1078
Science. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3078
Eighth Grade ESL
English (single period). . . . . 0088
English (double period). . .0008A
Social Studies. . . . . . . . . . . .1088
Science. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3088
ESL Resource:
(any grade)
8448
4008
(4 pds./cycle) (6 pds./cycle)
8428
(2 pds./cycle)
Gifted Programming
In addition to the high potential and accelerated programming offered
to all students, students identified as gifted with a GIEP will have
elective choices in both 7th and 8th grade to extend their experience
and meet their individualized needs.
GIFTED SEMINAR 7
Skills Course on the student schedule. Gifted Reading Seminar Grade 7
provides the students with learning experiences that will enhance their
reading skills, research skills, and study skills. This course utilizes
instructional strategies that are both individualized and academically
challenging through activities such as inquiry-based research and close
reading, critical thinking, discussions, and dialectical journaling. This
course will employ a variety of methods that will support students while
fostering an environment where students can build on their individual
capabilities, talents and creativity.
GIFTED SEMINAR 8
8080
(2 periods per cycle –
8th grade students)
This 2 period per cycle Gifted Seminar course is available to
students who have a GIEP in 8th grade. Gifted Seminar is an
interdisciplinary elective course whose skill- based curriculum is
process- rather than content-focused. The framework of this processcentered curriculum is constructed around the exploration of specific
themes. The course provides the students with learning experiences
that are both individualized and academically challenging. It will
employ a variety of instructional strategies that will support students in
the development of their own knowledge while fostering an
environment where students can build on their individual capabilities,
talents and creativity. The course will be scheduled during a normally
scheduled special area class.
Proficiency Requirements for
Seventh and Eighth Graders
READING 7 EXTENDED
4077 E
• Seventh graders who are not proficient and/or are not meeting
grade level standards in reading/writing based upon a rubric that
includes PSSA scores, final exam grades, class grades, and
benchmark assessments will be required to schedule Reading 7
Extended (8 periods per cycle).
READING 8 EXTENDED
4084 E
• Eighth graders who are not proficient and/or are not meeting
grade level standards in reading/writing based upon a rubric that
includes PSSA scores, final exam grades, class grades, and
benchmark assessments, will be required to schedule Reading 8
Extended as their 5th major (8 periods per cycle).
MATH 7 EXTENDED
2075 E
• Seventh graders who are not proficient and/or are not meeting
grade level standards in math based upon a rubric that includes
PSSA scores, final exam grades, class grades, and benchmark
assessments, will be required to schedule Math 7 Extended
(2075E) (8 periods per cycle).
2085 E
MATH 8 INTENSIVE
• Eighth graders who are not proficient and/or are not meeting
grade level standards in math based upon a rubric that includes
PSSA scores, final exam grades, class grades, and benchmark
assessments, will be required to schedule Math 8 Extended
(2085E) (8 periods per cycle).
BOTH READING AND MATH
• Seventh graders who are not proficient and/or are not meeting
grade level standards in both reading/writing and math based
upon a rubric that includes PSSA scores, final exam grades, class
grades, and benchmark assessments, will be required to schedule
Reading and English class blocked together along with Math 7
Extended (2075E) (8 periods per cycle).
•
4070
(6 periods per cycle –
7th grade students)
This year-long course is an option for students identified as Gifted (with
a GIEP) in 7th grade. The course would replace the Reading and Study
—8—
Eighth graders who are not proficient and/or are not meeting
grade level standards in both reading/writing and math based
upon a rubric that includes PSSA scores, final exam grades, class
grades, and benchmark assessments, will be required to schedule
Reading and English class blocked together along with Math 8
Extended (2085E) (8 periods per cycle).