Course Requests open at 7 a.m. on Feb. 6 and closes at 7 a.m. on Feb. 13, 2023.

Students and families will access this through Skyward, using the student account access. Instructions for how to use the Skyward tool, how to choose classes, and other information may be found in the PowerPoint linked below. Families should also download the 6th-Grade Course Planning Sheet and use the guidance below to guide their decisions in making these requests.

Selecting Middle School Courses

Transitioning from elementary to middle school is an exciting step and the first opportunity for families to make decisions about their student's academic course selections. 5th Graders will choose an elective class that interests them, such as band, chorus, orchestra, or an exploratory course of art, STEM, and leadership skills. Some students may also opt for accelerated pathways in one or more core subjects. Families should read about class options and academic pathways in the "Electives Course Descriptions" tab below.

The accelerated options in middle school Language Arts, Math, and Science are intended for those students whose personal goals, interests, and abilities would benefit from these options. Families interested in Advanced Language Arts, or skipping a year of science or math content should consider the following guidance:

Students choosing advanced/accelerated courses should:

• Have particular interests and aspirations in that course of study.
• Have excellent study habits and organizational skills.
• Have strong communication and reading skills for engaging with rigorous material.
• Demonstrate motivation, maturity, perseverance, and stamina for learning challenging material.
• Be active participants in all aspects of the classroom, including discussions, group or individual projects, and labs.
• Consider the increased time commitment to studies outside of the school day (please think about all responsibilities, including sports, music, and club affiliations).
• Consider the possibility that grades could be lower than if students took the typical course sequence(s).
• Consider the possibility that by skipping courses in math and science they may have some gaps in content knowledge.

This is an important decision for students and families. In Language Arts, this decision will be made yearly. For math and science, once a student starts a path above grade level, it may not be possible to change course without repeating content. Below is additional information to consider as you make your course selections.

Advanced Language Arts Readiness Criteria	Math Pathway C CC7/8 Math Readiness Criteria (skipping content)	Science Pathway 2 Readiness Criteria
2022 SBA ELA score: Level 4	2022 SBA Math score: Level 4 Common Core 6 Mastery Assessment: 80% or higher	2022 SBA Math score: Level 4 Common Core 6 Mastery Assessment: 80% or higher
Report Card Grades in Reading and Writing: 4	Report Card Grades in Math: 4	Report Card Grades in Math: 4 Reading and Writing:4
i-Ready reading score in 5th grade above 4.00 and reading above grade level	i-Ready math score above 4.00 and working at a 7th-grade level	i-Ready math score above 4.00 and working at a 7th-grade level

The sections below provide more information to consider when choosing middle school math and science placement. These readiness criteria are designed to serve as a guide. Students do not have to meet the readiness criteria in order to select a more advanced or accelerated pathway.

Families should also be aware that high school level courses will automatically be added to the student’s transcript, in accordance with District Regulation 2410. Students can request to have the course transcribed only for credit toward graduation and not include the grade in the student’s high school GPA calculation. Students can also request to have these credits removed completely from their transcript. Please note that once the grades and/or credits are deleted from the high school transcript, the grade and credit cannot be added back and will permanently be excluded from the student’s grade point average. This will impact students that follow Math Pathway B or C and students that choose Science Pathway 2.

Our school offers the opportunity for students to self-select core courses in English Language Arts (ELA), Math, and Science for 6^th grade. Students should choose the courses that best align to their interests and future aspirations. Some courses offer more challenging coursework, which requires personal motivation and strong work habits. For some courses, ISD offers recommended levels of performance on the SBA or i-Ready assessments to ensure students have the academic knowledge and skills to be set up for success.

For ELA, students choose either English Language Arts 6 or Advanced Language Arts 6. Advanced English Language Arts is a program for students which provides additional challenge and rigor in the areas of reading, writing, speaking, listening and language. Visit our Advanced ELA 6 website to see if this course is the best fit for you.

For Math, students choose one of 4 math pathways. Visit our middle school mathematics webpage to learn more about the math course offerings.

For Science, students choose from the 6^th grade Science Pathway I, which starts with Life Science, or Science Pathway II, which skips Life Science and begins with students taking the 7^th grade science course, Earth and Space Science. Visit our middle school science webpage to learn more about these options and see which is the best fit for you.

Year-long Electives

Beginning Band – This class is for students who are interested in learning to play a traditional band instrument such as flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, tuba or percussion. No prior music experience is necessary. This class will establish a foundation for students in the field of music. Students will explore the beginning elements of reading music, proper playing techniques, proper practice techniques, instrument care and maintenance. Beginning Band will be divided into two classes; Brass and Woodwinds. Instrument is required for each student and typically available to rent from a local music store or from IMS. Daily practice and participation in concerts are required and are part of the student’s grade.

6^th Grade Chorus – For students who love to sing! Or, who want to learn how!  In this class, grade students sing in 2 parts and by the end of the year advance to some 3-part singing. Through the study of vocal technique, music theory, rehearsals, and performances of a wide variety of choral literature (including pop, jazz, blues, folk, multi-cultural and classical), students grow in musicality. Evening school performances occur in each trimester and concert attendance is required. Students are also eligible to participate in the Eastshore Solo/Ensemble Festival. A positive attitude is the key for success in this class.

Beginning Orchestra – Orchestra is for students who wish to develop their skills with string instruments such as violin, viola, cello and double bass. No previous experience is required. In this year-long class, students will explore a myriad of skills needed in Orchestra including; beginning elements of reading music, caring and maintaining your instrument and proper playing and practice technique. Students are required to have an instrument which can typically be rented from a music store or the school and should be willing to commit to daily practice. Participation in concerts is required and is part of the students’ grade in the course.

 

Trimester Electives

Exploratory 6 – This elective option consists of 3 single-trimester electives; Introduction to Leadership, Art Exploratory and STEM Sampler.

• Introduction to Leadership – This classes focuses on the foundational elements of leadership on both an individual and community level. In this class of individual leadership skills, students will learn and practice skills that are essential for success at the secondary level: ways to study, use of a planner, staying organized, note taking and other executive functioning skills. Community leadership skills are also honed as students are taught how to get involved in school beyond the classroom and the walls of IMS itself. Students will learn such things as what to expect in middle school outside of the classroom, welcoming new students at lunch, the importance of kindness and how to embody the “IMS Way” as well as how they can help our community and world through charitable acts and philanthropy.
• Art Exploratory – 6th grade art exploratory will be an introduction to the three core IMS art classes with 4 weeks devoted to a sampling of each class: Studio art – a drawing and painting class, 3D Art – a sculpture class and digital photography – an introduction to photography and Photoshop.
• STEM Sampler – In this exploratory class, 6^th graders will be introduced to pre-engineering, coding, and digital media concepts and will design and create projects in our school technology lab. For students who are interested in hands-on, real-life projects, this course will be a great introduction if they wish to expand their knowledge or go onto more advanced CTE electives in grade 7 and 8.

 

PERIOD		TRIMESTER 1 A	TRIMESTER 2 B	TRIMESTER 3 C
1	all students take	Homeroom 6 A	Homeroom 6 B	Homeroom 6 C
2	all students take	PE 6 A	Health 6 B	PE 6 C
3	all students take	Social Studies 6 A	Social Studies 6 B	Social Studies 6 C
4	circle Language Arts choice	Language Arts 6 A Advanced Language Arts 6 A	Language Arts 6 B Advanced Language Arts 6 B	Language Arts 6 C Advanced Language Arts 6 C
5	circle Math choice	Math 1 A Math 1/2 A CC Math 78 A Other A	Math 1 B Math 1/2 B CC Math 78 B Other B	Math 1 C Math 1/2 C CC Math 78 C Other C
6	circle Science choice	Life Science A (Path 1) Earth Space Science A (Path 2)	Life Science B (Path 1) Earth Space Science B (Path 2)	Life Science C (Path 1) Earth Space Science C (Path 2)
7	circle elective choice	Band, Brass A Band, Woodwinds A Beginning Orchestra A Chorus 6 A OR Exploratory Art 6	Band, Brass B Band, Woodwinds B Beginning Orchestra B Chorus 6 B OR Intro to Leadership 6	Band, Brass C Band, Woodwinds C Beginning Orchestra C Chorus 6 C OR STEM Sampler

Advanced Language Arts Readiness Criteria	CC7/8 Math Compacted Pacing Readiness Criteria
Report Card Grades in Language Arts: B+ or higher SBA ELA score: Level 4	Grades on CC6 Tests and Quizzes: 90% or higher Common Core 6 Mastery Assessment: 90% or higher SBA Math score: Level 4

The following pages have more information to consider when choosing middle school math placement. The readiness criteria is designed to serve as a guide. Students do not have to meet the readiness criteria in order to select a more advanced or accelerated pathway.

Families should also be aware that high school level credit courses taken in the 2019-2020 school year or LATER will automatically be added to the student’s transcript, this is in accordance with District Regulation 2410. Students can request to have the course transcribed only for credit toward graduation and not include the grade in the student’s high school GPA calculation. Students can also request to have these credits removed completely from their transcript. Please note that once the grades and/or credits are deleted from the high school transcript, the grade and credit cannot be added back and will permanently be excluded from the student’s grade point average. This will impact students that select compacted pacing.

Sincerely,

Rich Mellish
Executive Director
Teaching and Learning Services

Year-long Electives

These electives are scheduled around your child’s core and other required classes. Every attempt will be made to honor elective choices however some courses may not fit in your child’s schedule and therefore, cannot be guaranteed.

Music

• Intermediate Band – This class is for students who have completed Beginning Band or any student with prior experience playing a traditional band instrument. The majority of students in this class will be in the 7^th grade. The focus of the class will be on more advanced elements of reading music, continued reinforcement of proper playing techniques, as well as introducing more advanced concert literature. An instrument is required for each student and typically available to rent from a local music store or from IMS. Daily practice and participation in concerts are required and are part of the student’s grade.
• Concert Band – This class is for students who have completed both Beginning and Intermediate Band or who have significant prior experience on their instrument. The majority of students in this class will be in the 8^th grade. Focus is placed on advanced instrument techniques, and preparing students to play advanced band literature. The Concert Band will perform at the Eastshore Region Music Festival in the spring. An instrument is required for each student and typically available to rent from a local music store or from IMS. Daily practice and participation in concerts are required and are part of the student’s grade.
• 7^th and 8^th Grade Chorus – The Bass Clefs (Boys) or The Treble Clefs (Girls) – For students who love to sing! Or, who want to learn how! Seventh and eighth grade students will sing in 4 parts. Through the study of vocal technique, music theory, rehearsals, and performances of a wide variety of choral literature (pop, jazz, blues, folk, multi-cultural, and classical) students will continue to grow in musicality. Concerts include evening school performances and the Eastshore League’s Choral Festival. Concert attendance is required. Students are also eligible to participate in the Eastshore Solo/Ensemble Festival. Every other year, this advanced Chorus class has taken a trip (along with the advanced Band and Orchestra students) to perform at Silverwood’s Music in the Park Festival (where they always come is first!) Eighth grade Chorus students may also audition to sing in Crystal Voices (see description below). A positive attitude is the key for success in this class.
• Crystal Voices Program Description – Crystal Voices is an advanced choir selected by audition. This group specializes in a cappella singing and performs for special events throughout the community. Members must be in 7^th/8^th Grade Chorus. Crystal Voices provides an opportunity for advanced singers to excel.
• Intermediate Orchestra – This class is designed for students who wish to progress to a higher level of performance on their stringed instrument. The majority of students in this class will be in the 7^th grade but any student who has completed Beginning Orchestra or has prior experience with a stringed instrument is welcome to sign up for this course. The focus of the class will be developing expressive and technical skills needed to understand and perform a more advanced variety of music. Students are required to have an instrument which can typically be rented from a music store or the school and should be willing to commit to daily practice. Participation in concerts is required and is part of the students’ grade in the course.
• Chamber Orchestra – This class is for students who have completed both Beginning and Intermediate Orchestra or who have significant prior experience with their stringed instrument. This class will be made up of primarily 8^th grade students. Students will learn advanced techniques preparing them to play more advanced music. Students are required to have an instrument which can typically be rented from a music store or the school and should be willing to commit to daily practice. Participation in concerts is required and is part of the students’ grade in the course.

ASB – Sound Technicians (DMQ) – Yearbook

Admission to the class is by application only and is based on student election results and teacher appointment. Information about how to apply will be available in late spring. If elected or appointed students will become part of the yearlong hybrid ASB/Sound Technician/Yearbook class. Some students may have to drop other electives OR sign up for the Independent Health and PE 8 Option (this option is only available to grade 8). The Registrar will contact you to discuss a schedule change.

• ASB – Students become an active member of our ASB school community. Use and grow your social, artistic, technology and leadership skills as you collaborate to plan engaging activities for IMS students including assemblies, spirit days, fundraisers, the talent show and more.
• Sound Technician (DMQ) – Yearbook – Working collaboratively in production groups, students will bring daily news and information to students and staff at IMS, take and edit pictures to capture important moments at IMS, write captions to describe photographs and help create the yearbook pages. Students will learn composition, angle, lighting and leans while using video cameras and a variety of software including Sony Vegas Movie Studio, Visual Communicator and Adobe Photoshop. Students in this class will:
  • Plan and evaluate their own work.
  • Enhance imagination and creativity.
  • Use drama as a means of confidently expressing their worldview and developing their personal “voice."

 

Trimester Electives

Trimester electives are determined by student interest and staffing. Therefore, final elective offerings are NOT guaranteed. In addition, trimester electives must fit around required classes and may not work in the student’s schedule. In this instance, the elective will be replaced by a different elective.

• Arts & Crafts – This elective is perfect for students who like to work in many different artistic areas. In this craft-oriented class, students will explore a variety of craft techniques and materials. Projects may include the use of sewing, textiles and papier Mache.
• Automation and Robotics (STEM) – Students in this class will trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics. You will learn about mechanical systems and different types of mechanisms, energy transfer, machine automation and computer programming of robotic systems. Students will use robust robotics kits to design, build and program robotic solutions to solve existing problems. Each kit contains over 1800 parts that the students will use to build their robotics projects from scratch. This class has a $15.00 fee 
• Backyard Forest – Explore the flora, fauna, and geology of the Issaquah Alps and learn about backcountry survival, through classroom activities and hands-on exploration. As part of the course, students visit Cougar Mountain and Tradition Lake Plateau, with a final hike being a 6.5-mile journey to the top of Poo Poo Point. Backyard Forest is one of many educational-but-fun electives students can participate in, here at IMS!
• Board Games – Get your game face on! Come learn and play classic and modern board games, games from around the world, and even create your own! Release your creative, strategic, cooperative, and competitive self as we explore what it means to play.
• Design and Modeling (STEM) – In this elective class, students will be introduced to the design process and will use it to solve problems and understand the influence that creative and innovative design has on our lives. Students will learn to use industry standard 3D modeling software (AutoDesk Inventor Professional) to create virtual models of their designs. 3D printers will be used on some projects. Student will save their work in an electronic portfolio to showcase their creative solutions. There are many hands-on activities in this course that supplement the use of the computer modeling software. This class has a $15.00 fee..
• Digital Photography – Using digital cameras, students will learn about composition, angle, lighting and lens. Students will make a digital portfolio to demonstrate use of these four basic rules for taking pictures. Students will use Adobe Photoshop to modify their digital photos, and photos taken from the internet. This class has a supply fee.
• Drawing & Painting – This trimester elective is offered to students who have a desire to learn the fundamental skills of drawing and painting.
• Intro to Drama – This fun trimester elective is for students with no experience as well as students who have previously been involved in theater. Students will build social skills, confidence and the ability to work collaboratively while experimenting with different acting styles and using various creative drama techniques including improv, monologues, turning classic stories into plays, and more.
• Peer Tutor – This course is for students who like to work with peers that need extra help in academics and social skills. You will be working in the LRC2 class or in an elective or PE supporting your peers with their assignments or participating in physical education. If you truly want to help your fellow IMS peers that need a little extra help, this course is for you! This course requires good attendance, organizational and people skills.
• Study Hall – The study hall elective gives students a dedicated period to complete class and/or make-up work, prepare for exams, or complete projects with general assistance from the teacher as needed. Students taking this elective are expected to come to class with the necessary materials and ready to meet their goals for the day.
• TA – Teacher (Note: Students may be assigned to the office, library or classroom and must be willing to work where assigned).
  • Office – This responsible job includes assisting students, parents and staff in person and over the phone, making deliveries rain or shine, and helping with various office duties as directed.  You will be expected to act in a professional manner and maintain confidentiality at all times. 
  • Library – TAs are responsible for many day-to-day tasks in the library. These include: checking books in and out, shelving books, making sure shelves are in order, printing overdue notices, making deliveries, processing new books and magazines and straightening and cleaning. In short, it’s like having a job, but instead of a paycheck you get a grade. 
  • Teacher – This responsible job involves helping a classroom teacher with a variety of tasks as directed.
• Team Sports – This advanced Physical Education elective is designed to provide opportunities to acquire strategies and skills in a variety of non-traditional team sports from around the globe.  Student in this class are generally highly competitive. Rules, techniques, sportsmanship, cooperative learning and safety practices, necessary to participate in selected team sports will be included. Maintenance and/or improvement of personal fitness will also be stressed.
• 3D Art – Students will create 3-deminsional art using a variety of materials including clay, gourds, textiles and “found” objects.
• Walking Fitness – In this elective, the class will utilize local trails as a way to improve overall fitness. In addition to hiking, students will work toward increasing cardiorespiratory and endurance fitness.
• Yoga – This elective will introduce students to the basic postures, breathing techniques, and relaxation methods of yoga. Students will experience the benefits of stretching, moving, and breathing to relieve stress and learn to relax and enhance daily life.
• Intro to Zoology – Students will learn about the major ecosystems on Earth and how animals have adapted to their environments. They will also learn how to distinguish animals from other organisms and describe the structure and function of the animal body.

 

ACADEMIC SUPPORT CLASSES – Enrollment in these classes is based on teacher and counselor input.

• Read 180 – Read 180 is a yearlong, multi-faceted class that gets students reading, writing, speaking and thinking critically in all content areas. The foundational curriculum of this class is research-based and proven to raise reading achievement for middle school students. While using highly engaging fiction and non-fiction texts, students will work on developing their skills in decoding, spelling, vocabulary development, comprehension and fluency. This support class requires teacher and counselor input.
• Study Skills – In this yearlong class, students are guided through developing study skills to improve academic and work performance. They are provided instructions (through mini-lessons) on topics such as time management, organization, memory, self-advocacy, reading, writing, note taking, critical thinking, test taking and researching. Students have the opportunity to work with adults (teacher, para) to better understand their homework assignments and challenging concepts. This is for students who need academic or organizational help, not just quiet work time. This support class requires teacher and counselor input.

Advanced Language Arts Readiness Criteria
Report Card Grade in Language Arts: B+ or higher 2022 SBA ELA score: Level 4

The readiness criteria are designed to serve as a guide. Students do not have to meet the readiness criteria to select advanced ELA.

Sincerely,

Rich Mellish
Executive Director
Teaching and Learning Services

Year-long Electives

These electives are scheduled around your child’s core and other required classes. Every attempt will be made to honor elective choices however some courses may not fit in your child’s schedule and therefore, cannot be guaranteed.

Music

• Intermediate Band – This class is for students who have completed Beginning Band or any student with prior experience playing a traditional band instrument. The majority of students in this class will be in the 7^th grade. The focus of the class will be on more advanced elements of reading music, continued reinforcement of proper playing techniques, as well as introducing more advanced concert literature. An instrument is required for each student and typically available to rent from a local music store or from IMS. Daily practice and participation in concerts are required and are part of the student’s grade.
• Concert Band – This class is for students who have completed both Beginning and Intermediate Band or who have significant prior experience on their instrument. The majority of students in this class will be in the 8^th grade. Focus is placed on advanced instrument techniques, and preparing students to play advanced band literature. The Concert Band will perform at the Eastshore Region Music Festival in the spring. An instrument is required for each student and typically available to rent from a local music store or from IMS. Daily practice and participation in concerts are required and are part of the student’s grade.
• 7^th and 8^th Grade Chorus – The Bass Clefs (Boys) or The Treble Clefs (Girls) – For students who love to sing! Or, who want to learn how! Seventh and eighth grade students will sing in 4 parts. Through the study of vocal technique, music theory, rehearsals, and performances of a wide variety of choral literature (pop, jazz, blues, folk, multi-cultural, and classical) students will continue to grow in musicality. Concerts include evening school performances and the Eastshore League’s Choral Festival. Concert attendance is required. Students are also eligible to participate in the Eastshore Solo/Ensemble Festival. Every other year, this advanced Chorus class has taken a trip (along with the advanced Band and Orchestra students) to perform at Silverwood’s Music in the Park Festival (where they always come is first!) Eighth grade Chorus students may also audition to sing in Crystal Voices (see description below). A positive attitude is the key for success in this class.
• Crystal Voices Program Description – Crystal Voices is an advanced choir selected by audition. This group specializes in a cappella singing and performs for special events throughout the community. Members must be in 7^th/8^th Grade Chorus. Crystal Voices provides an opportunity for advanced singers to excel.
• Intermediate Orchestra – This class is designed for students who wish to progress to a higher level of performance on their stringed instrument. The majority of students in this class will be in the 7^th grade but any student who has completed Beginning Orchestra or has prior experience with a stringed instrument is welcome to sign up for this course. The focus of the class will be developing expressive and technical skills needed to understand and perform a more advanced variety of music. Students are required to have an instrument which can typically be rented from a music store or the school and should be willing to commit to daily practice. Participation in concerts is required and is part of the students’ grade in the course.
• Chamber Orchestra – This class is for students who have completed both Beginning and Intermediate Orchestra or who have significant prior experience with their stringed instrument. This class will be made up of primarily 8^th grade students. Students will learn advanced techniques preparing them to play more advanced music. Students are required to have an instrument which can typically be rented from a music store or the school and should be willing to commit to daily practice. Participation in concerts is required and is part of the students’ grade in the course.

 

ASB – Sound Technicians (DMQ) – Yearbook

Admission to the class is by application only and is based on student election results and teacher appointment. Information about how to apply will be available in late spring. If elected or appointed students will become part of the yearlong hybrid ASB/Sound Technician/Yearbook class. Some students may have to drop other electives OR sign up for the Independent Health and PE 8 Option (this option is only available to grade 8). The Registrar will contact you to discuss a schedule change.

• ASB – Students become an active member of our ASB school community. Use and grow your social, artistic, technology and leadership skills as you collaborate to plan engaging activities for IMS students including assemblies, spirit days, fundraisers, the talent show and more.
• Sound Technician (DMQ) – Yearbook – Working collaboratively in production groups, students will bring daily news and information to students and staff at IMS, take and edit pictures to capture important moments at IMS, write captions to describe photographs and help create the yearbook pages. Students will learn composition, angle, lighting and leans while using video cameras and a variety of software including Sony Vegas Movie Studio, Visual Communicator and Adobe Photoshop. Students in this class will:
  • Plan and evaluate their own work.
  • Enhance imagination and creativity.
  • Use drama as a means of confidently expressing their worldview and developing their personal “voice."

 

World Language (8^th Grade Only)

It is strongly recommended that students taking World Language in 8^th grade have a B average in 7th grade Language Arts(for Spanish 1 or a C average for American Sign Language. Students should have excellent study habits, and be willing to commit to additional daily homework. Course will cover vocabulary, conversation and composition. Students who successfully complete World Language in 8^th grade will be prepared to take level 2 in grade 9. Note: World Language course offerings are dependent on instructor availability and are subject to change. The grade earned will be included on the student’s high school transcript – see information above under High School Credit Classes.

• Spanish 1 – This class builds novice and intermediate skills of listening, reading, writing and speaking the Spanish language, the second most commonly spoken language in the United States. Students will be required to memorize vocabulary for accuracy and long-term retention. They will learn and apply new grammatical concepts and demonstrate competence with learned concepts in reading and writing as they apply newly learned vocabulary and conventions. They will develop listening and speaking as they use interpersonal, interpretive and presentational modes of communication. Through readings, video, music and art, students will develop an understanding of the cultural practices and perspectives of Spanish-speaking countries.
• Japanese 1 – Japanese 1 is a year-long course that provides an introduction to the spoken and written language of Japan. Students develop listening and speaking skills and are introduced to elementary grammar. Students learn hiragana, katakana and some basic kanji. Emphasis is on understanding the culture embedded in the language. Good attendance is essential and listening and speaking skills depend on class participation. The class contains a lot of in-class activities, pair work, fun projects, and some crafts.

 

Independent Health and PE 8 (8th Grade Only)

Students wishing to take two full-year electives must obtain a health credit outside of the school day and fulfill a Physical Education class requirement. Full-year electives that qualify for this option are Band, Chorus, and Orchestra (providing this is not the student’s first year in a music elective) and World Language. Elected ASB officers and appointed Sound Technicians are also eligible. Students choosing this option will pay a course fee of $130 in the fall and will be issued a Health textbook. Complete Independent  Health and PE information.

 

Trimester Electives

Trimester electives are determined by student interest and staffing. Therefore, final elective offerings are NOT guaranteed. In addition, trimester electives must fit around required classes and may not work in the student’s schedule. In this instance, the elective will be replaced by a different elective.

• Arts & Crafts – This elective is perfect for students who like to work in many different artistic areas. In this craft-oriented class, students will explore a variety of craft techniques and materials. Projects may include the use of sewing, textiles and papier Mache.
• Automation and Robotics (STEM) – Students in this class will trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics. You will learn about mechanical systems and different types of mechanisms, energy transfer, machine automation and computer programming of robotic systems. Students will use robust robotics kits to design, build and program robotic solutions to solve existing problems. Each kit contains over 1800 parts that the students will use to build their robotics projects from scratch. This class has a $15.00 fee 
• Backyard Forest – Explore the flora, fauna, and geology of the Issaquah Alps and learn about backcountry survival, through classroom activities and hands-on exploration. As part of the course, students visit Cougar Mountain and Tradition Lake Plateau, with a final hike being a 6.5-mile journey to the top of Poo Poo Point. Backyard Forest is one of many educational-but-fun electives students can participate in, here at IMS!
• Board Games – Get your game face on! Come learn and play classic and modern board games, games from around the world, and even create your own! Release your creative, strategic, cooperative, and competitive self as we explore what it means to play.
• Design and Modeling (STEM) – In this elective class, students will be introduced to the design process and will use it to solve problems and understand the influence that creative and innovative design has on our lives. Students will learn to use industry standard 3D modeling software (AutoDesk Inventor Professional) to create virtual models of their designs. 3D printers will be used on some projects. Student will save their work in an electronic portfolio to showcase their creative solutions. There are many hands-on activities in this course that supplement the use of the computer modeling software. This class has a $15.00 fee..
• Digital Photography – Using digital cameras, students will learn about composition, angle, lighting and lens. Students will make a digital portfolio to demonstrate use of these four basic rules for taking pictures. Students will use Adobe Photoshop to modify their digital photos, and photos taken from the internet. This class has a supply fee.
• Drawing & Painting – This trimester elective is offered to students who have a desire to learn the fundamental skills of drawing and painting.
• Intro to Drama – This fun trimester elective is for students with no experience as well as students who have previously been involved in theater. Students will build social skills, confidence and the ability to work collaboratively while experimenting with different acting styles and using various creative drama techniques including improv, monologues, turning classic stories into plays, and more.
• Peer Tutor – This course is for students who like to work with peers that need extra help in academics and social skills. You will be working in the LRC2 class or in an elective or PE supporting your peers with their assignments or participating in physical education. If you truly want to help your fellow IMS peers that need a little extra help, this course is for you! This course requires good attendance, organizational and people skills.
• Study Hall – The study hall elective gives students a dedicated period to complete class and/or make-up work, prepare for exams, or complete projects with general assistance from the teacher as needed. Students taking this elective are expected to come to class with the necessary materials and ready to meet their goals for the day.
• TA – Teacher (Note: Students may be assigned to the office, library or classroom and must be willing to work where assigned).
  • Office – This responsible job includes assisting students, parents and staff in person and over the phone, making deliveries rain or shine, and helping with various office duties as directed.  You will be expected to act in a professional manner and maintain confidentiality at all times. 
  • Library – TAs are responsible for many day-to-day tasks in the library. These include: checking books in and out, shelving books, making sure shelves are in order, printing overdue notices, making deliveries, processing new books and magazines and straightening and cleaning. In short, it’s like having a job, but instead of a paycheck you get a grade. 
  • Teacher – This responsible job involves helping a classroom teacher with a variety of tasks as directed.
• Team Sports – This advanced Physical Education elective is designed to provide opportunities to acquire strategies and skills in a variety of non-traditional team sports from around the globe.  Student in this class are generally highly competitive. Rules, techniques, sportsmanship, cooperative learning and safety practices, necessary to participate in selected team sports will be included. Maintenance and/or improvement of personal fitness will also be stressed.
• 3D Art – Students will create 3-deminsional art using a variety of materials including clay, gourds, textiles and “found” objects.
• Walking Fitness – In this elective, the class will utilize local trails as a way to improve overall fitness. In addition to hiking, students will work toward increasing cardiorespiratory and endurance fitness.
• Yoga – This elective will introduce students to the basic postures, breathing techniques, and relaxation methods of yoga. Students will experience the benefits of stretching, moving, and breathing to relieve stress and learn to relax and enhance daily life.
• Intro to Zoology – Students will learn about the major ecosystems on Earth and how animals have adapted to their environments. They will also learn how to distinguish animals from other organisms and describe the structure and function of the animal body.

 

ACADEMIC SUPPORT CLASSES – Enrollment in these classes is based on teacher and counselor input.

• Read 180 – Read 180 is a yearlong, multi-faceted class that gets students reading, writing, speaking and thinking critically in all content areas. The foundational curriculum of this class is research-based and proven to raise reading achievement for middle school students. While using highly engaging fiction and non-fiction texts, students will work on developing their skills in decoding, spelling, vocabulary development, comprehension and fluency. This support class requires teacher and counselor input.
• Study Skills – In this yearlong class, students are guided through developing study skills to improve academic and work performance. They are provided instructions (through mini-lessons) on topics such as time management, organization, memory, self-advocacy, reading, writing, note taking, critical thinking, test taking and researching. Students have the opportunity to work with adults (teacher, para) to better understand their homework assignments and challenging concepts. This is for students who need academic or organizational help, not just quiet work time. This support class requires teacher and counselor input.