Ada Merritt K-8 Center Curriculum Bulletin 2011-2012 660 SW 3rd Street Miami, Florida 33130 (305) 326-0791 -1- School Board of Miami-Dade County Public Schools Ms. Perla Tabares Hantman, Chair Dr. Lawrence S. Feldman, Vice Chair Dr. Dorothy Bendross-Mindigall Mr. Carlos L. Curbelo Mr. Renier Díaz de la Portilla Dr. Wilbert “T” Holloway Dr. Martin Karp Dr. Marta Pérez Ms. Raquel Regalado Superintendent of Schools Mr. Alberto M. Carvalho Regional Center III Dr. Essie S. Pace, Region Superintendent Administrative Directors: Mr. Jorge L. Garcia, Business/Personnel Mr. Albert Payne, Advocacy/SPED Ms. Vivian S. Pardo, Professional Development/Professional Standards Ms. Vanassa Washington, Instruction and Curriculum Ada Merritt K-8 Center Ms. Carmen M. Garcia, Principal Ms. Barbara M. Garcia, Assistant Principal Ms. Jackeline Sanchez-Jimenez, Elementary School Lead Teacher Ms. Maud P. Clark, Middle School Lead Teacher Ms Heather Zielke, Reading Coach Ms. Lourdes Cobas, Science Coach -2- Table of Contents Letter from Principal …………………………………………………………………………… 4 School’s Vision, Mission, Requirements, Policies and Procedures …………………………….. 5 Middle Years Programme ………………………………………………………………………. 7 Florida Virtual School Option ………………………………………………………………….. 9 Course Credits and Grading Policy ……………………………………………………………. 10 Academic Honesty Contract ……………………………………………………………………. 11 School Contract …………………………………………………………………………………. 12 Course Descriptions …………………………………………………………………………….. 13 Subject Selection ………………………………………………………………………………… 27 Promotion and Placement in the Middle School ………………………………………………... 29 Curriculum Front Matter Information …………………………………………………………. 36 Home Learning Policy …………………………………………………………………………. 54 Attendance Policy ……………………………………………………………………………… 55 Students Rights and Responsibilities …………………………………………………………… 57 The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act ………………………………………………. 58 Magnet Programs ………………………………………………………………………………. 60 -3- Principal Carmen M. Garcia Assistant Principal Barbara M. Garcia March 28, 2011 Dear Parents: Welcome to Ada Merritt K-8 Center’s Middle Years Programme! We are pleased to announce that the school is now a fully accredited International Baccalaureate (IB) World School. Already authorized for the Primary Years Programme (PYP) since 2006, the school received, in February of 2010, the authorization to offer the IB Middle Years Programme (MYP). The school also received a “School of Distinction” Award from Magnet Schools of America. Students enrolled at Ada Merritt K-8 Center have the opportunity to participate in a challenging academic program and to receive a “world-class education”. The rules and regulations that govern all schools offering the MYP are described in an International Baccalaureate document entitled General Regulations: Middle Years Programme. We invite you to read it on the IB website at http://www.ibo.org/become. This curriculum bulletin has been designed to help you better understand your children’s middle school years and the course of studies they will follow in the MYP. The courses to which students have been assigned will be challenging and enriching. As outlined in the Ada Merritt K-8 Center “School Contract”, students are expected to maintain satisfactory academic, effort and conduct grades. Our staff is dedicated to assisting your child through his/her middle school years. By working together we can ensure that your child receives a “world-class education” and is well equipped to meet further challenges when he/she leaves the IB Middle Years Programme at Ada Merritt K-8 Center. If you have any questions regarding your courses, please feel free to contact your teachers or Ms. Maud Clark, Middle School Lead Teacher. Respectfully, Carmen M. Garcia Principal -4- Mission Ada Merritt K-8 Center provides and supports a rigorous dual language international education program that values and promotes the acquisition of a second language and embraces international perspectives and attitudes, through a high quality educational program for our unique and diverse community of learners. Vision Ada Merritt K-8 Center is a vibrant learning community that nurtures, develops, and respects its individual members and its broader community of stakeholders. Core Values Excellence We pursue high standards and strive for personal, professional, and academic excellence. Kindness, Humility, and Open-mind We honor a kind, humble heart and open-mind to ensure that we continue to grow and prosper as individuals, while helping others do the same. Respect, Integrity, and Civility There is a common expectation that respect, integrity, and civility will be norm in how we deal with our students, their families, the broader community, and one another. Service, Collaboration, and Dedication We believe that our collaborative efforts and passionate dedication to the educational success of our students, we are able to foster a love of learning and commitment to service for the empowerment of ourselves and of those we impact. School Description As the District's first commuter school, Ada Merritt K-8 Center is open to students from the tri-county areas of Miami-Dade, Broward, and Monroe counties. The school is located at 660 Southwest Third Street, Miami, Florida, in an area known as Little Havana. It was reconstructed in 2001. It opened its doors August 2003 with pre-kindergarten through second grade. The school now offers a complete K-8 Center servicing students in kindergarten through eighth grade. Ada Merritt K-8 Center sits on 1.7 acres close to the Interstate 95 Expressway, and close to Downtown Miami. Although, Ada Merritt K-8 Center is not a neighborhood school, the ethnic breakdown of the school reflects the diversity of the MiamiDade County Public School population. The school is designed to meet community demands for choice programs that offer rigorous academic standards. The Ada Merritt K-8 Center curriculum design was created to expand multilingual education and increase opportunities for students to become bilingual and bi-literate. Students at Ada Merritt K-8 Center participate in a Dual Language, highly rated International Baccalaureate Programme. Educational Reform The staff at Ada Merritt K-8 Center implements a variety of strategies to ensure student success. Our spiraled dual-language curriculum builds upon the foundations, skills, and knowledge of the preceding grade, emphasizes high academic performance in all disciplines, and incorporates higher order thinking skills in each academic area. The school emphasizes the need for ongoing collaboration and communication among staff that fosters constructive conversation and planning. To this end teachers follow an established calendar of meetings. Throughout the school year, the instructional staff meets in a variety of settings that facilitate vertical and horizontal planning such as grade level, vertical teams, and whole faculty meetings. Teachers plan and review the curriculum. Interdisciplinary team planning is an integral part and essential component of the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme and requires teachers to develop instructional units in all subjects, integrating IB aims and objectives and CBC objectives and competencies. -5- Parent Involvement Ada Merritt K-8 Center fosters a strong relationship between parents and the school community. Parents are informed of school and classroom activities through the monthly calendar and the school’s website. The Parent Resource Center provides families valuable information ranging from home-learning support strategies to adult self-help programs. Additionally, the Educational Excellence Advisory Committee (EESAC) provides school wide support from the community, business, students, families, and faculty. The Parent Teacher Student Association (PTSA) raises funds to support students’ needs. The Spanish International Parent Association (SIPA) offers support for the implementation and success of the International Studies Program. Community Participation The Educational Excellence School Advisory Committee (EESAC) consists of teachers, administrators, students, parents, and community liaisons working collaboratively. The council discusses school issues, advises on policies, and serves as the decision making body for the School Improvement Plan (SIP). Subject Selection Process The Middle Years Programme requires students to take eight subjects each year leaving no room for electives with the exception of eighth grade, when students will have a choice between visual arts or music. All students take advanced level math courses leading to Algebra I in grade eight. In order to participate in Advanced Language Arts classes and in the Accelerated Math track students must meet the established criteria as specified in the course description section. Curriculum Offerings Unique to School Ada Merritt K-8 Center offers a school wide bilingual program, where all students participate in a rigorous dual language International Baccalaureate Programme; the Primary Years Programme (PYP) for kindergarten through fifth grade students or the Middle Years Programme (MYP) for sixth through eighth grade students. Advanced students in Spanish also participate in the International Studies Program. Unique Program Features The Middle Years Programme (MYP) provides a framework of academic challenge and life skills for middle school students. Centered around the International Baccalaureate Learner Profile, it promotes intercultural awareness, responsible global citizenship, interdisciplinary, thematic instruction and communication, and engages students in a thorough study of eight disciplines viewed through the lenses of five Areas of Interaction. Fundamental Concepts of the MYP Intercultural Awareness is concerned with developing students’ attitudes, knowledge and skills as they learn about their own and other’s social and national cultures fostering tolerance and respect and leading to empathy and understanding. Holistic Education emphasizes the disciplined study of traditional subject groups. Looking at the curriculum through the five Areas of Interaction allows students to make connections between the subjects themselves and between the subjects and the real world. This helps them understand that most real-world problems require insights gained from a variety of disciplines and learn that knowledge is an interrelated whole. Communication stresses the central importance of both verbal and non-verbal communication as a vehicle to realize the aims of the program. Emphasis is placed on language acquisition, which not only promotes cognitive growth, but is crucial for maintaining cultural identity, personal development and intercultural understanding. -6- The Middle Years Programme aims to: Develop internationally-minded, independent learners Provide learning in a broad base of disciplines Require schools to develop subject-specific aims and subject content in eight subject groups Promote the principle of concurrent learning, whereby students deal with a balanced curriculum each year, explore the disciplines with increasing depth and realize how they are linked to each other and global issues Encourage the use of a variety of teaching and learning methodologies to produce a climate where students discover how they learn best in different contexts Emphasize the development of the whole child: affective, cognitive, creative and physical. The Areas of Interaction are five interactive themes that give the MYP its distinctive core. They are: Approaches to Learning (ATL)- concerned with developing intellectual discipline, strategies and skills; “learning how to learn” and developing an awareness of thought processes and their strategic use Community and Service – which extends beyond the classroom and requires students to develop community awareness and concern, a sense of responsibility, and the skills needed to make an effective contribution to society Health and Social Education – aims to educate the whole person and to prepare students for a physically and mentally healthy life, aware of potential hazards and able to make informed choices Environments – aims to develop students’ awareness of their interdependence with the environment so that they accept responsibility ofr maintaining an environment fit for the future Human Ingenuity – concerned with the products of the creative genius of people, and their impact on society. MYP Curriculum Model -7- Required MYP Courses All Middle School students have eight 85 minute classes in a four by four block schedule. They have annual courses in Mathematics, Science, Social Studies, Language A (Language Arts), Language B (Spanish or Portuguese), Approaches to Learning (ATL)/Technology, Humanities and Language B Humanities. Students also have semester courses in, Physical Education and Fine arts. Requirements for Students not Passing the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test (FCAT) Students that did not earn a passing score in the Reading or the Mathematics portion of the FCAT in the previous school year are enrolled in Intensive Reading and/or Intensive Mathematics classes in lieu of the ATL/Technology class. Students who fail to earn a passing score in both Reading and Mathematics will be enrolled in an in Intensive Reading class and be required to take a course recovery class in Mathematics. Admission Procedure All interested students must apply during the October 1st through the mid January School of Choice application period. To be eligible for the program, applicants must participate in an interview and demonstrate spoken and written language proficiency in the language they have chosen on their application. All eligible students are then entered in a random selection process following the MiamiDade County public Schools’ School of Choice procedures. Special Note: In accordance with the signed Memorandum of Understanding with the Government of Spain, students with Spanish nationality have priority admission to the IS program providing they meet the schools admission criteria. Also, priority is given to eligible applicants with siblings attending the school and to applicants from military families. Physical Education Requirements One semester of physical education in grades 6, 7, and 8 beginning in the 2009-2010 school year. This requirement may be waived if a student is enrolled or required to enroll in a remedial course or if the student’s parent indicates in writing a request that the student enroll in another course or that the student is participating in physical activities outside the school day which are equal to or in excess of the mandated requirement. Parents are to be notified of the waiver options before scheduling the student to participate in physical education. Physical Education is, however, a required subject of the International Baccalaureate Program. In order to provide the required MYP concurrency of learning and continuum of instruction, Physical Education will be offered as a semester course throughout the year, in alternance with Visual Arts or Music. Career Exploration Requirements Middle School students must complete a course which incorporates career and education planning, to be completed in 7th grade. This course will culminate in completion of an electronic Personalized Education Planner (ePEP), which must be signed by the student, the student’s guidance counselor, and the student’s parent. For Ada Merritt K-8 Center students, this career exploration course is incorporated their technology/Exploratory wheel course. It is also a required component of the MYP Student Portfolio. -8- Florida Virtual School Option While the initiative to use Florida Virtual (FLVS) classes district-wide originated with the class-size mandate, online learning was already common place in many students’ educational experiences. With the mass proliferation of online digital content as well as changes in students’ learning modalities, virtual education is continuing to expand and is a reality of the evolution of education. A 2008 study released by the Hoover Institute at Stanford University estimates that 50% of education courses will be delivered online by the year 2019. The advantages of virtual education include self-paced learning and access to course work not available in schools or not accessible due to scheduling conflicts. Additionally, virtual education provides students with a learning environment that closely resembles the 21st century workplace. In K-12 education, more than 70 percent of school districts in the United States currently offer at least one online course and at least two states have adopted policies that require high school students to take an online course to graduate. While Florida has yet to adopt such a policy, it was considered during the last legislative session and current trends such as computer-based end-of-course tests and legislation mandating full-time, K-12 virtual education are strong predictors that Florida may soon follow suit. Florida Virtual Course Offerings • The FLVS course list can be found at this link: http://www.flvs.net/areas/flvscourses/Pages/Course%20Catalog/CourseListing.aspx. Schools may not limit core courses that are graduation requirements to online FLVS classes. For example, courses such as Government and Economics may be offered to students via Florida Virtual; however, face-to-face classes must also be offered. Elective courses may be limited to online options. Courses that will be provided online through Florida Virtual will be identified on subject selection forms. Recommended Participation Criteria for Students • Students who are reading at or above grade level (FCAT Reading score of 3 or above). • Students who are motivated with a previous grade of A or B in subject area. • • • Students with good attendance history. Students who have access to a computer with Internet access after school hours. Students who are English Language Learners (ESOL Levels 3 and 4) may participate based on the course and English proficiency. Students with disabilities may participate only if the IEP supports participation in online classes. • Notification of Parents • FLVS does not require parent permission to register students for online classes. • Schools will advise parents when students are enrolled in an FLVS class. • Additional information on the use of FLVS for class size reduction can be found at: http://curriculum.dadeschools.net Progress and Grade Reporting FLVS progress reports will be provided to parents on a monthly basis. Grades will be reported at the end of each semester. -9- COURSE/CREDIT REQUIREMENTS GRADES 6-8, 2010-2011 GRADE 6 7 8 LANGUAGE ARTS 1 1 1 MATH 1 1 1 SOCIAL STUDIES 1 1 1 SCIENCE 1 1 1 LANGUAGE B 2 2 2 ELECTI VES 2 2 2 TOTAL S 8 8 8 Student Evaluation Academic grades reflect a student’s academic progress. Determination of a student’s grade is based on the teachers’ best judgment after careful consideration of the student’s performance during a grading period. The parent can monitor the student’s progress by logging on to the Parent Internet Viewer. Report cards are distributed at the end of each nine-week period, and contain academic, conduct grades and attendance data. M-DCPS Grading Scale Academic Grading 100-90 A Outstanding Effort 89-80 B Good 1 Outstanding Effort 79-70 C Satisfactory 2 Improvement Needed 69-60 D Improvement Needed 3 Unsatisfactory 59-0 F Unsatisfactory MYP Grading Students IB grades on a variety of IB assessments tasks in all subjects. An overall IB grade is assigned based on students’ mastery of the established objectives. Grades are assigned on a scale of 7 as described here: IB Grade Scale 7 – Consistent & thorough understanding, higher level thinking, originality & insight applied accurately in a wide variety of situations 6– Consistent and thorough understanding, higher level thinking, much originality and insight 5 – Consistent and thorough understanding, usually shows higher level thinking 4 – Good general understanding with some higher level thinking 3 – Limited achievement for most objectives with support 2 – Very limited achievement for all objectives with support 1 – Minimal achievement Interim Progress Report Interim Progress Reports are issued in the middle of each grading period to help parents plan interventions if needed. They are to be signed by a parent and returned to the homeroom teacher. Parent/guardian’s signature may not indicate agreement with grades, but only that parents are informed. For more information, parents may contact the teacher. Unsatisfactory Progress Report It is the teacher’s desire that students perform to the best of their ability at all times. Occasionally, however, if a student is not working to the potential, or display disruptive behavior, a comment or discipline note will be entered in the electronic gradebook. Parents are encouraged to access their child’s grades through the Parents Portal on http://www.dadeschools.net/ to monitor his/her progress. Teachers may also send notes home that will need to be signed by the parents and returned, or call home. - 10 - - 11 - ADA MERRITT K-8 CENTER SCHOOL CONTRACT Dear Parent(s)/Guardian of «First_Name» «Last_Name»: Welcome to the International Baccalaureate Program at Ada Merritt K-8 Center for the 2011-2012 school year. Our program is rigorous and challenging with specific criteria to be met and maintained. These include: Mandatory Attendance (No more than three unexcused absences within a grading period or five per semester.) Punctuality (Students are expected to arrive to school and class on time. Grades K-1, 8:20 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. / Grades 2-8, 8:20 a.m.-3:00 p.m. Wednesdays, all students 8:20 a.m. – 2:00 p.m.) Academic Performance (Students must achieve and maintain academic and conduct grades of C or higher in all courses, and have no effort grades lower than 2.) Appropriate and Acceptable Behavior (Should a student have excessive discipline problems or commit a serious offense, he/she may be required to return to his/her neighborhood school.) Completion of All Home Learning Assignments Failure to meet the minimum “C” average in each class will result in your child being placed on probation. If improvement is not shown before the end of the school year the student will be withdrawn from Ada Merritt K-8 Center and you will need to enroll him/her at another school for the following school year. Failure to follow school rules and regulations will result in disciplinary actions in accordance with Miami-Dade County Public School’s Code of Student Conduct and Attendance Policy. These actions may include withdrawing your child from Ada Merritt K-8 Center. All voluntary withdrawals are final and binding. If you voluntarily withdraw your child from Ada Merritt K-8 Center, you must understand that he/she cannot be re-enrolled at the school at a later date. You may re-apply during the application period for the following school year. Please review this information with your child, sign the back of this form to acknowledge that you have read and agree to abide by all the provisions set forth in this school contract. Return this contract with your registration documents before April 1, 2011. If your child is not registered by that date his/her seat will be made available to students on the waiting list. We look forward to a wonderful and exciting school year! Respectfully, Carmen M. Garcia Principal I understand and agree to the fact that Ada Merritt K-8 Center offers a challenging and rigorous program with a demanding course work schedule of homework and projects. I have reviewed the above information with my child and agree to abide by all the provisions set forth in this school contract. «First_Name» «Last_Name» Student’s Name ________________________ Print Parent’s Name _________________________ Student’s Signature _________________________ Parent’s Signature - 12 - ___________________ Date ___________________ Date Course Descriptions - 13 - Language Arts - Required 100101001 - M/J Language Arts 1 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide educational experiences which develop English language arts concepts and skills. The content should include, but not be limited to, the study of literature the use of the writing process, and the application of reading, listening, speaking, critical thinking and study skills. Information on how language arts skills apply to daily life and work should also is provided. 100102001 – M/J Language Arts 1, Advanced 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to promote academic excellence in writing, oral communication, and the analysis of literature. The content should include, but not be limited to, the analysis of literature and the use of the writing process. The course should also include advanced reading skills, techniques of effective speaking and listening, critical thinking, and study skills and how these skills relate to success in the world of work. 100104001 – M/J Language Arts 2 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to develop the ability to use, analyze and appreciate spoken and written English. The content should include, but not be limited to, the study of literature; practice in writing for a variety of purposes and audiences; activities in speaking, listening, and critical thinking, as well as in the use of reference materials. Developmental reading strategies should also be incorporated. Information on related career possibilities should be provided. 100105001 – M/J Language Arts 2, Advanced 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to promote academic excellence in reading, writing, and oral communication, including critical thinking and study skills. The content should include, but not be limited to, applications of speaking and listening skills, the analysis of literature, and the uses of the writing process for creative and expository purposes. The course should include advanced reading, thinking, study skills, and information on language arts related career opportunities. 100107001 – M/J Language Arts 3 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide instruction in literature, reading, writing, and oral communications. The content should include, but not be limited to, an analysis of literature, the application of the writing process with emphasis on preparation for the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test in reading and writing, and the use of reading, listening, critical thinking, and study skills in preparation for the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test. Career information related to language arts should be provided 100108001 – M/J Language Arts 3 Advanced 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to promote academic excellence in English language arts through enriched experiences in literature, writing, speaking, listening, and critical thinking. The content should include, but not be limited to, the study of traditional and contemporary literature, the application of the writing process to expressive and academic modes with emphasis on preparation for the Florida Writing Assessment Test, the utilization of higher-order reading skills in preparation for the Florida Comprehensive Assessment Test in Reading and Writing; and the practice of formal and informal speaking and listening activities. Critical thinking should be incorporated in all components of the course. - 14 - Activities that illustrate the application of communications skills to daily life and work should be provided ESOL 1002180L1 – Developmental Language Arts through ESOL (ESOL 1) 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide instructions in developmental language arts skills to native speakers of other languages. Emphasizes of instruction should be on reading, vocabulary, writing, listening, and speaking skills. The content should include, but not be limited to the following: listening and speaking experiences, reading skills within the context of selected reading levels, vocabulary development, writing instructions including the analysis of sentence structure and paragraph, writing, study skills. 1002810L2 – Developmental Language Arts through ESOL (ESOL 2) 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide instructions in developmental language arts skills to native speakers of other languages. Skills include reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The content should include, but not be limited, to the following: participation in formal and informal English conversations with increase vocabulary, and more integrated English communication skills. 1002810L3 – Developmental Language Arts through ESOL (ESOL 3) 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide instructions in developmental language arts skills to native speakers of other languages. Skills include reading, writing, listening, and speaking. The content should include, but not be limited to the following: reading instructions within the context of representative samples of literature, writing instructions, including frequent practice in writing paragraphs and multiparagraph papers for a variety of purposes and audiences, listening and speaking experiences in relation to the reading and writing assignments. 1002810L4 – Developmental Language Arts through ESOL (ESOL 4) 1.0 Credit This course is designed for students at an intermediate level of language development. Students at this level will demonstrate mastery of M/J ESOL, M/J Listening and Speaking Skills II, M/J ESOL Reading and Writing Skills II. - 15 - Mathematics – Required 120502001 - M/J Mathematics 1, Advanced 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to extend the sixth grade curriculum to address higher levels of all strands of the Sunshine State Standards. The course should prepare students for Algebra I. The content should include, but not be limited to, numeration, whole numbers, fractions, decimals, percents, integers, geometry, measurement, estimation, graphing, number theory, ratio and proportion, probability, statistics, data analysis, algebraic thinking. The course should be taught within the context of problem solving, and calculators and computers should facilitate instruction. 120505001 – M/J Mathematics 2, Advanced 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to extend the seventh grade curriculum to address higher levels of all strands of the Sunshine State Standards. The Course should prepare students for Algebra I. The content should include, but not be limited to, numeration, whole numbers fractions, decimals, percents, integers, geometry, measurement, estimation, graphing, number theory, ratio and proportion, probability, statistics, data analysis, algebraic thinking. The course should be taught within the context of problem solving, and calculators and computers should facilitate instruction 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to extend the traditional eighth-grade curriculum through horizontal enrichment and vertical acceleration, leading to mastery of appropriate skills from the middle grades standards of excellence. The content should include, but not be limited to, real numbers; probability; statistics; geometry; algebra; graphing; estimation; numeration systems; consumer-related applications; problem solving; and knowledge of calculators and computers. 120508001 M/J Mathematics 3, Advanced 120032001-Algebra 1 Honors 1.00 Credit HONORS BRIGHT FUTURES-GRADUATION CREDIT FOR MATHEMATICS The purpose of this course is to provide a rigorous and in-depth study of algebra, emphasizing deductive reasoning skills, as a foundation for more advanced mathematics courses and to develop the skills needed to solve mathematical problems. Topics shall include, but not be limited to, operations and properties used within the real number system; algebraic and graphical solutions to first-degree equations and inequalities in one and two variables; relations and functions; direct and inverse variation; operations with polynomials, including all forms of factoring; rational and irrational algebraic expressions; quadratic equations, inequalities and functions. SELECTION CONSIDERATION: Earning credit in this course precludes the earning of credit in Algebra 1 or Applied Math I and II (which together are equivalent to Algebra I) State-authorized honors course. 120632001-Geometry Honors 1.00 Credit HONORS BRIGHT FUTURES-GRADUATION CREDIT FOR MATHEMATICS The purpose of this course is to give a rigorous in-depth study of geometry with emphasis on reasoning and logic and the formal language of mathematics. Basic topics in non-Euclidean geometries will also be explored. Topics shall include, but not be limited to, structure of geometry; separation properties; angle concepts; triangles; quadrilaterals; proofs, perpendicularity and parallelism in a plane and in space; similar polygons; circles and spheres; constructions; area and volume; coordinate geometry, topology, and transformational geometry. SELECTION CONSIDERATION The earning of credit in this course precludes the earning of credit in regular Geometry. - 16 - Science – Required 200204001 – M/J Comprehensive Science 1 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide the first year of a sequential three year course of study in exploratory experiences and activities in concepts of life, earth/space, and physical sciences. The content should include, but not be limited to, scientific method; cells, human body; protists; plants, animals, matter and energy, geology; astronomy, meteorology, and oceanography. This course meets the requirement for sixth graders. Laboratory investigations of selected topics are an integral part of this course 200207001 – M/J Comprehensive Science 2 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide the second year of a sequential three year course of study in exploratory experiences and activities in the concepts of life, earth/space, and physical sciences. The content should include, but not be limited to, scientific method; cells, human body; protists; plants, animals, matter and energy, geology; astronomy, meteorology, and oceanography. Students are introduced to basic concepts about life, are given an overview of living organisms from the simple to the complex, and are taught about the human body. Also emphasized with respect to the human body are the importance of nutrition, the causes and effects of disease, and the effects of drugs, tobacco, and alcohol. Laboratory investigations of selected topics in the content which also include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus and safety are an integral part of the course. Completion of credit precludes earning credit in M/J Comprehensive Science 2, Advanced 200132001 –Earth/Space Science, Honors 1.0 credit BRIGHT FUTURES The purpose of this course is to provide opportunities for the student to develop concepts basic to the earth, its materials, processes, history and environment and space. Content should include, but not be limited to, formation of the universe life cycle of stars, earth-moon system, U.S. manned space program, formation of igneous, sedimentary & metamorphic rock, indent. Of rocks & minerals, divisions of earth, formations of landforms & basic mountain types, fundamental plate tectonics, formation of water systems, erosion, oceanography, meteorology, soil composition, geologic periods & fossils, and renewable & non-renewable energy resources. Laboratory investigations of selected topics in the content which also include the use of the scientific method, measurement, laboratory apparatus and safety are an integral part of the course. SC***Completion of a credit in this course precludes the earning of credit in any other Earth/Space Science titled course. Social Sciences - Required 210301001 - M/J World Geography 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide students an opportunity to acquire an in-depth and comprehensive understanding of the six essential elements of geography; i.e., the world in spatial terms, places and regions, physical systems, environment and society, and the uses of geography. The content should include, but not be limited to, the study of world regions as they relate to topography, climate, political divisions, natural resources and interrelationships of people and their environment. - 17 - 210601001 – M/J Civics 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to prepare students to participate as informed citizens of their community, state, and nation by providing them with comprehensive knowledge and skills necessary to function in our democratic society. An extensive understanding of the purpose and goals of our democratic society will be developed in order to instill a feeling of pride and patriotism for our system. The content should include, but not be limited to, an analysis of the United States constitutional government, the free enterprise system, the legal system, and the development, structure and function of local, state, and national governments within that constitutional framework. The course should lead the student to an understanding of contemporary social issues, a realization of the role of the individual in our democratic system and an understanding of rights, responsibilities, and obligations. 210001001 – US History 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide students the opportunity to acquire a comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the heritage of the United States and its relationship to the present. The content should include, but not be limited to, the political, economic, technological, and social development of the United States from its historical beginnings to present day Language B Courses 070801001 - M/J Spanish Intermediate 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to reinforce and expand the fundamental skills previously acquired by the students. This course further develops listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills as well as cultural awareness. Content emphasis remains on oral communication skills for everyday practical situations with special attention to pronunciation, intonation and stress, and the use of functional language structures and vocabulary. Students continue to develop reading and writing skills and to familiarize themselves with the culture of the Spanish-speaking world. SC***the student is expected to have completed 0708000, or its equivalent. 070802001 - M/J Spanish Advanced 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to further reinforce previously learned language skills. Content emphasis remains on the expansion of oral communication skills. Students continue to develop and use listening-speaking skills with greater confidence. Increased attention is given to vocabulary and to reading and writing skills, and the study of the culture of the Spanish-speaking world is expanded. SC***the student is expected to have completed 0708010, or its equivalent. 071550001 –Spanish Language and Literature for International Studies 1 1.0 Credit As the first in a series of Spanish language arts courses, this course is designed to provide the basis for further study in and about the language. This course is designed for students who are fluent in Spanish and have a working knowledge of the language and literature. Cultural issues and perspectives are stressed SC***Open only to students in the International Studies Program. - 18 - 071551001 –Spanish Language and Literature for International Studies 2 1.0 Credit As the second in a series of Spanish language arts courses, this course is designed to provide the basis for further study in and about the language. This course is designed for students who are fluent in Spanish and have a working knowledge of the language and literature. Cultural issues and perspectives are stressed SC***Open only to students in the International Studies Program. 071551001 –Spanish - Advanced Placement 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to develop language skills in Spanish that can be used in various contexts with reasonable fluency and accuracy. The content should include, but not be limited to that determined by the Advanced Placement Program. SC***This course is for students who have completed at least up to Spanish III and/or have the Spanish teacher's recommendation. 071000001 – M/J Foreign Language Humanities for International Studies 1 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to introduce students to a variety of areas in the humanities taught in the target language. The content should include, but not be limited to, the development of skills in disciplines such as history, geography, philosophy, and the arts. The reading and writing processes are emphasized. The student works with content-specific vocabulary. This course is available only to students accepted into the International Studies Program. 071001001 – M/J Foreign Language Humanities for International Studies 2 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to introduce students to a variety of area in the humanities taught in the target language. The content should include, but not be limited to, the development of skills in disciplines such as history, geography, philosophy, and the arts. The reading and writing processes are emphasized. The student works with content-specific vocabulary. This course is available only to students accepted into the International Studies Program. 071002001 – M/J Foreign Language Humanities for International Studies 3 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide students with opportunities to expand their knowledge of the humanities taught in the target language. The content should include, but not be limited to, the development of skills in disciplines such as history, geography, philosophy, and the arts. The reading and writing processes are emphasized. Content-specific vocabulary is further enhanced. This course is available only to students accepted into the International Studies Program. 070880001-Spanish 1 Pre-International Baccalaureate 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to develop fundamental skills in the language. This course emphasizes listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Cultural awareness and the writing process are stressed. State-authorized Honors course. SC***this course incorporates the goals and objectives of the International Baccalaureate program and is available only to students accepted into this program. - 19 - 070881001-Spanish 2 Pre-International Baccalaureate 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to expand the skills previously acquired by the student. The content should include, but not be limited to, more advanced language structures. Additional emphasis on vocabulary, grammar, reading, and writing. State-authorized Honors course. SC***the student is expected to have completed the Pre-international Baccalaureate 1 course or its equivalent, and have the language teacher's recommendation. This course incorporates the goals and objectives of the International Baccalaureate program and is available only to students accepted into this program. 070836001-Spanish 3 HONORS 1.00 Credit The purpose of this course is to master and expand the skills previously acquired by the student. The content should include, but not be limited to, the expansion of vocabulary and conversational skills through discussions based on selected readings. Grammatical concepts will be reinforced by analyzing reading selections. Contemporary vocabulary stresses activities which are important to the everyday life of the Spanish-speaking people. State-authorized Honors course. SC***This course is for students who have completed 070835001, or its equivalent. 071330001 – M/J Portuguese 1 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the Portuguese language and its culture and to develop communicative skills and cross-cultural understanding. The content should include, but not be limited to, the development of listening and speaking skills with an emphasis on pronunciation. An introduction to reading and writing should also be included, as well as the fundamentals of grammar and culture. SC***this course is for students with no previous study or knowledge of Portuguese 071331001 – M/J Portuguese 2 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to reinforce the fundamental skills acquired by the student. This course develops increased listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills as well as cultural awareness. The content should include, but not be limited to, an expansion of the listening and oral skills previously acquired. Reading and writing should receive more emphasis, while oral communication remains the primary objective. This course should include a survey of Portuguese culture. SC***The student is expected to have completed 071330001or its equivalent. 071332001 – M/J Portuguese 3 1.0 Credit HONORS The purpose of this course is to continue the fundamental skills acquired by the student. This course develops increased listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills as well as cultural awareness. The content should include, but not be limited to, an expansion of the listening and oral skills previously acquired. Reading and writing should receive more emphasis, while oral communication remains the primary objective. This course should include a survey of Portuguese culture. SC***The student is expected to have completed 071332001or its equivalent. - 20 - Electives 785504001 – Gifted – Advanced Placement 1.0 Credit This course is designed to implement the instructional objectives of the Education Program (EP) for each student. SC***Enrollment in this course is determined by the EP for each gifted student. 0200000EM M/J Introduction to Computers 1.0 This course is designed for the student with little or no experience with microcomputers. Hands-on microcomputer experience will be included. Content will include, but not be limited to, such topics as: social impact of computers, technological advances, computer terminology and functioning, keyboard manipulation, and computer usage. 0200010EM M/J Computer Applications 1 1.0 The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the care and uses of microcomputers and to give them an opportunity for extensive hands-on experience. Content will include, but not be limited to, such topics as: care and maintenance of equipment, software evaluation, and the use of commercially available software. SC***This course is designed for the student who has completed M/J Introduction to Computers or has had equivalent experiences with microcomputers. 020006001 M/J Exploring the Internet 1.0 The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop basic knowledge of the functions, capabilities, applications, and social implications of the internet. The content should include, but not be limited to, the following: - Ethical use of the internet - Navigation skills - Search strategies - Information literacy skills - Telecommunications Special note. For exploratory wheel courses, all of the content and intended outcomes should be included, but the depth may vary based on time and circumstances. Such courses should include hands-on activities. 010000001 - M/J Art Appreciation 1 1.0 Credit This course is designed to develop five objectives in the middle school student: perceptual awareness, manipulative ability, knowledge and sensitivity to the arts, intellectual association, and the ability to produce artwork. Experiences are planned developmentally in nine areas of art: drawing, painting, printmaking, photography, textiles, ceramics, sculpture, and collage. - 21 - 010001001 - M/J Art Appreciation 2 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to give students a basic understanding of crafts methods, media, techniques and craftsmanship. The content should include, but not be limited to, basic design concepts in functional and decorative works of art; the value and historic significance of crafts as an important realm of human experience; production of well-designed craft works using various materials and techniques; the criteria for making judgments about the aesthetic merits of craft objects of art; the concepts of design and craftsmanship; and evaluations of their own work, work of peers and work of master artisans. 010002001 - M/J Art Appreciation 3 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide students with opportunities to develop an understanding of the artistic expression of ideas through a variety of two and three dimensional media. The content should include, but not be limited to, the development of awareness of the environment, exploration of ideas, emotions, experiences and observations as content of artwork; exploration of media and techniques and the use of the elements and principles of design to develop works of art. In addition, art criticism techniques will be developed based on student's own work, peer work, and work of master artists. Art careers will be discussed in relation to the media and concepts explored. 150110001 – M/J Comprehensive Physical Education 1 0.5 Credit The purpose of this course is to develop competence in: (a) physical fitness, (b) body-management skills (c) throwing and catching skills, (d) skills related to striking with the body, (e) skills related striking with objects, and (f) strategies. The content should include, but not be limited to the following: safety practices; assessment of health-related fitness; skill-related components of physical fitness; evaluation of physical activities in terms of fitness value; principles of exercise and training; psychological values of physical fitness including positive self-image; interrelationships among exercise, nutrition, and rest; knowledge and refinement of body-management skills; application of body management skills through games/sports; knowledge and refinement of throwing and catching skills; application of throwing and catching skills through games/sports; knowledge and refinement of skills related to striking objects with the body. 150111001 – M/J Comprehensive Physical Education 2 0.5 Credit The purpose of this course is to develop competence in: (a) physical fitness, (b) body-management skills (c) throwing and catching skills, (d) skills related to striking with the body, (e) skills related striking with objects, and (f) strategies. The content should include, but not be limited to the following: safety practices; assessment of health-related fitness; skill-related components of physical fitness; evaluation of physical activities in terms of fitness value; principles of exercise and training; psychological values of physical fitness including positive self-image; interrelationships among exercise, nutrition, and rest; knowledge and refinement of body-management skills; application of body management skills through games/sports; knowledge and refinement of throwing and catching skills; application of throwing and catching skills through games/sports; knowledge and refinement of skills related to striking objects with the body. - 22 - 150112001 – M/J Comprehensive Physical Education 3 0.5 Credit The purpose of this course is to develop competence in: (a) physical fitness, (b) body-management skills (c) throwing and catching skills, (d) skills related to striking with the body, (e) skills related striking with objects, and (f) strategies. The content should include, but not be limited to the following: safety practices; assessment of health-related fitness; skill-related components of physical fitness; evaluation of physical activities in terms of fitness value; principles of exercise and training; psychological values of physical fitness including positive self-image; interrelationships among exercise, nutrition, and rest; knowledge and refinement of body-management skills; application of body management skills through games/sports; knowledge and refinement of throwing and catching skills; application of throwing and catching skills through games/sports; knowledge and refinement of skills related to striking objects with the body. 130100001 General Music 1 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to introduce music and music making through exploration of various performance media such as singing, guitar, keyboard, and simple instruments; through listening; and through an introduction to music fundamentals. The content should include, but not be limited to, experimentation with various musical instruments, singing, listening, and music reading. 130100001 General Music 2 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to introduce music and music making through exploration of various performance media such as singing, guitar, keyboard, and simple instruments; through listening; and through an introduction to music fundamentals. The content should include, but not be limited to, experimentation with various musical instruments, singing, listening, and music reading. Assigned Courses ** The courses listed below may be administratively assigned in lieu of the student’s electives due to the student’s FCAT Level. 100001001 - M/J Intensive Reading 1.0 Credit The purpose of this course is to provide intensive reading instruction and practice in reading skills. The content should include, but not be limited to, content identified by diagnosis of each student's needs for intensive instruction specified in the academic improvement plan and practice in test-taking skills and strategies for reading. The course content must reflect appropriate Sunshine State Standards benchmarks. 120400001 - M/J Intensive Mathematics 1.0 Credit This elective course is designed to assist students with content mastery of Math 1, Math 2, or Math 3. This course can be repeated as needed. Advanced/Honor Courses In order to participate in the Advanced Language Arts and in the Accelerated Mathematics track students must meet the established criteria: FCAT scores of 4 or 5, teacher recommendation, strong work ethics and A/B grades in the previous year’s courses, and satisfactory scores on the placement tests. - 23 - Ada Merritt K-8 Center 2011-2012 Sixth Grade Codes for Master Schedule Letter A A Sub Number: 16 26 Course Number: 100101001 100102001 Course(s) Language Arts I Language Arts I, Advanced Letter B B Sub Number: 16 26 Course Number: 120502001 120505001 Course(s) Mathematics I, Advanced Mathematics II, advanced Letter C Sub Number: 16 Course Number: 200204001 Course(s) Comprehensive Science I Letter D Sub Number: 16 Course Number: 210301001 Course(s) World Geography Letter E E E E Sub Number: 16 26 17 18 Letter Q Q Q H Sub Number: 16 26 36 16 Course Number: 070801001 070802001 071550001 071000001 Course(s) Spanish L/A, Intermediate Spanish Advanced Spanish Language &Literature for IS 1 F/L Humanities IS Letter R H Sub Number: 16 36 Course Number: 071330001 071000001 Course(s) Portuguese 1* F/L Humanities for IS* Letter I I Sub Number: 16 26 Course Number: 100001001 120400001 Course(s) Intensive Reading Intensive Math Letter L L L P T Sub Number: 26 16 16 06 06 Course Number: 785504001 020000001 020001001 150110002 010000001 Course(s) Gifted - Advanced Academics Introduction to Computers Computer Applications 1 Comprehensive PE I Art Appreciation I Course Number: 1002180L1 1002180L2 1002180L3 1002180L4 Course(s) Developmental Language Arts through ESOL1 Developmental Language Arts through ESOL2 Developmental Language Arts through ESOL3 Developmental Language Arts through ESOL4 - 24 - Ada Merritt K-8 Center 2011-2012 Seventh Grade Codes for Master Schedule Letter A A Sub Number: 17 27 Course Number: 100104001 100105001 Course(s) Language Arts II Language Arts II, Advanced Letter B B Sub Number: 27 17 Course Number: 120032001 Course(s) Algebra 1, Honors* Mathematics II, advanced Letter C Sub Number: 17 Course Number: 200207001 Course(s) Comprehensive Science II Letter D Sub Number: 17 Course Number: 210601001 Course(s) Civics Letter E E E E Sub Number: 16 26 17 18 120505001 Course Number: 1002180L1 1002180L2 1002180L3 1002180L4 Course(s) Developmental Language Arts through ESOL1 Developmental Language Arts through ESOL2 Developmental Language Arts through ESOL3 Developmental Language Arts through ESOL4 Letter Q Q Q H Sub Number: 17 27 37 17 Course Number: 070802001 070880001 071551001 071001001 Course(s) Spanish Advanced Spanish 1- Pre-IB Spanish Language &Literature for IS 2* F/L Humanities for IS II* Letter R H Sub Number: 17 37 Course Number: 071331001 071001001 Course(s) Portuguese II F/L Humanities for IS II* Letter I I Sub Number: 17 27 Course Number: 100001001 120400001 Course(s) Intensive Reading Intensive Math Letter L L L M P Sub Number: 27 17 17 07 07 Course Number: 785504001 020002001 860002012 130100001 Course(s) Gifted - Advanced Academics Computer Applications 2 Exploring Technology General Music I Comprehensive PE II 150111002 - 25 - Ada Merritt K-8 Center 2011-2012 Letter A A Sub Number: 18 28 Eighth Grade Codes for Master Schedule Course Number: Course(s) 100107001 Language Arts III 100108001 Language Arts III , Advanced Letter E E E E Sub Number: 16 26 17 18 Course Number: 1002180L1 1002180L2 1002180L3 1002180L4 Course(s) Developmental Language Arts through ESOL1 Developmental Language Arts through ESOL2 Developmental Language Arts through ESOL3 Developmental Language Arts through ESOL4 Letter B B B Sub Number: 18 28 38 Course Number: 120032001 120632001 Course(s) Mathematics III, Advanced Algebra 1, Honors* Geometry Honors* Letter C Sub Number: 18 Course Number: 200132001 Course(s) Earth Space Science, Honors* Letter D Sub Number: 18 Course Number: 210001001 Course(s) US History Letter Q Q Q Q H Sub Number: 18 28 38 38 18 Course Number: 070880001 070834001 070881001 070840001 071002001 Course(s) Spanish 1- Pre-IB Spanish I* Spanish 2- Pre-IB Spanish Advanced Placement* F/L Humanities for IS III* Letter R H Sub Number: 18 38 Course Number: 071332001 071002001 Course(s) Portuguese III F/L Humanities Letter I I Sub Number: 18 28 Course Number: 100001001 120400001 Course(s) Intensive Reading Intensive Math Letter L L M P T Sub Number: 28 18 08 08 08 Course Number: 785504001 020006001 130101001 150112002 010001001 Course(s) Gifted - Advanced Academics Exploring the Internet General Music II Comprehensive PE III Art Appreciation 2 120508001 - 26 - - 27 - - 28 - - 29 - - 30 - - 31 - - 32 - - 33 - - 34 - - 35 - - 36 - - 37 - - 38 - - 39 - - 40 - - 41 - - 42 - - 43 - - 44 - - 45 - - 46 - - 47 - - 48 - - 49 - - 50 - - 51 - - 52 - - 53 - - 54 - - 55 - - 56 - - 57 - - 58 - - 59 - - 60 - - 61 - - 62 - The School Board of Miami-Dade County, Florida, adheres to a policy of nondiscrimination in employment and educational programs/activities and programs/activities receiving Federal financial assistance from the Department of Education, and strives affirmatively to provide equal opportunity for all as required by: Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 – prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, religion, or national origin. Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, as amended – prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of race, color, religion, gender, or national origin. Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 – prohibits discrimination on the basis of gender. Age Discrimination in Employment Act of 1967 (ADEA), as amended - prohibits discrimination on the basis of age with respect to individuals who are at least 40. The Equal Pay Act of 1963, as amended – prohibits sex discrimination in payment of wages to women and men performing substantially equal work in the same establishment. Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 – prohibits discrimination against the disabled. Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (ADA) – prohibits discrimination against individuals with disabilities in employment, public service, public accommodations and telecommunications. The Family and Medical Leave Act of 1993 (FMLA) – requires covered employers to provide up to 12 weeks of unpaid, job-protected leave to “eligible” employees for certain family and medical reasons. The Pregnancy Discrimination Act of 1978 – prohibits discrimination in employment on the basis of pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions. Florida Educational Equity Act (FEEA) – prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, gender, national origin, marital status, or handicap against a student or employee. Florida Civil Rights Act of 1992 – secures for all individuals within the state freedom from discrimination because of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, handicap, or marital status. School Board Rules 6Gx13-4A-1.01, 6Gx13-4A-1.32, and 6Gx13-5D-1.10 – prohibit harassment and/or discrimination against a student or employee on the basis of gender, race, color, religion, ethnic or national origin, political beliefs, marital status, age, sexual orientation, social and family background, linguistic preference, pregnancy, or disability. Veterans are provided re-employment rights in accordance with P.L. 93-508 (Federal Law) and Section 295.07 (Florida Statutes), which stipulate categorical preferences for employment. Revised 5/9/03 - 63 -