Practical Arts & Technology
Computer Literacy
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This 8th grade elective course involves three areas of instruction. The first area of instruction involves a review of basic computer terminology and skills necessary for computer usage. Second, the course will cover the use of course software to help students become more proficient in being able to launch software, open and save files and documents, follow a menu, and use software as an individual learning device. Finally, the class will teach the student the use of an integrated software program involving basic word processing, data base, and spreadsheet applications.
Explorations in General Technology
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General Technology is a course offered for a one-year experience to all interested eighth and ninth grade students. The course is exploratory in nature and provides a basic understanding of the following areas during one semester of study: robotics, research and design, architectural drawing, flight, rocketry, small engines, computer aided drafting, electronics, radio broadcasting, computer simulation and engineering structures. The second semester of study introduces the student to computerized milling processes as well as basic woodworking, metal-working, plastics and drafting.Video Production
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Video Production is a year-long class open to both eighth and ninth grade students. In this class, students will learn the skills involved in planning, filming, and editing a video production. They will also learn the digital video editing process. Students will build a video library to be used by students preparing videos and documentaries, including History Day. Each student will be responsible for producing a documentary. The class will also produce a mini-yearbook.Computer Applications
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For students who have a basic knowledge of computer use or those wishing to improve skills from previous computer classes and learn new applications. Topics covered include but are not limited to a quick review of keyboarding skills, Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint), printing, HyperStudio, graphics editing, Internet use, Web publishing with HTML and Site Central, and desktop publishing. Completed activities, projects and assessments determine course grade.Advanced Computer Applications
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This course is for the skilled and motivated computer user who wants to overcome some of the frustrations that accompany the mastery of computer and application usage. Successful participants will demonstrate problem-solving skills, cooperation with others, and exhibit the ability to follow directions. Topics include but are not limited to Microsoft Office applications (Word, Access, Excel, and PowerPoint), printing, Windows 98 operating system, HyperStudio, scanner and digital camera usage, graphics editing with Paint Shop Pro, Internet use, Web publishing with HTML and Front Page, and desktop publishing with Microsoft Publisher. The quality of completed activities, projects and assessments are the basis for course grade.
Career Pathways
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Career Pathways exploratory is designed to help give focus and direction to the selection of a high school course of study and emphasize the skills needed for employment. It will include career investigation, career planning and career exploration. Students will be involved in activities designed to expand awareness of a variety of careers. This will help students develop a four year plan for high school, relate high school classes to possible career choices, and explore a variety of options beyond high school.
Business for Tomorrow
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This course is an integral part of the total Marketing program. An individual's education is not complete until they have received training in an occupation of their choice. A 4-year course of study in marketing and economics will help better prepare the student to make informed economic choices and for an active role in the business work force. Students need to learn early the impact of our free enterprise system and how it affects the world. This class will help students become better consumers by understanding how our economic system works.
Family and Consumer Science
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Family and consumer science will highlight the areas basic to the home economics curriculum. The following areas will be covered: consumer education, housing and home management, clothing and textiles (students are responsible for purchasing their own patterns and materials), human development and the family, foods, nutrition, and family and individual health. Students will make projects in home economics class and will need to bring materials to class; the cost will vary depending upon the type of project selected.