Bernardo Heights Departmental Information
ELECTIVES
BHMS has a number of fine electives that allow students to expand their middle school horizons. Course content will vary according to grade level.
Academic Support: Academic elective classes have been designed to support those students who do not meet PUSD minimum proficiency in reading, writing, or math, and they are remedial in nature, therefore, students will be enrolled based upon proficiency standards and teacher recommendation.
Art: Each semester art elements, principles, and art history/art appreciation will vary with differing assignments, projects, and media. Students will work with a variety of media such as paint, pencil, ink. foil, clay, fibers, and paper. Students will learn about art appreciation and art history, while creating their own art. This class is a fun, hands-on experience. Students may enroll in art for one semester or the entire year.
State Academic Content Standards
Exploring Technology: This class is a hands-on lab course that allows students to learn skills and concepts needed in our technical society. Due to the nature of the activities, all work is completed in class with extensive use of computers. The course uses the award winning curriculum developed by Project Lead The Way, which is a national organization devoted to increasing the awareness of boys and girls to careers in various aspects of engineering. The technology activities are set up so that pairs of students complete activities that include Aeronautics (space and flight), Electronics, Electric & Solar Vehicles, Simple Machines and the Physics of motion, 3-D Modeling, Robotics, and Bridge and Tower Design. The curriculum rolls over every two years, therefore, students taking this class two years in a row will not see the same material twice. This course also involves a component of career exploration. There are no pre-requisites for taking this class.
Science Through Technology: This is an 18 week class designed to investigate Earth Science while incorporating technology. This class will incorporate some of the material students are studying or have studied in 6th grade science, which gives students the added benefit of seeing material presented in a different manner. Students will utilize Microsoft Word, Power Point, and Excel. Lessons are modified for students so that “Science Through Technology” benefits all students ranging from beginner to proficient levels in computer use. Students will have individual computers to investigate, research, and complete projects. Most work will be completed in class; so, there will be few homework assignments.
Music:
Band: This is a full-year course and is open to all students regardless of prior musical training. Students must provide their own instruments, with the exception of tubas or other large instruments. Daily practice is required. Students will perform in concerts and festivals. Two higher levels of band are offered for 7th and 8th grade students. The band director will determine the level of placement by audition. The Bernardo Heights Band Student Handbook was developed to answer the most common questions of students and parents involved in our program. If you have further questions please e-mail Mrs. Crooks at pcrooks@powayusd.com See the Band website. Also, Fundraising
Choir: The Sounds of the Heights Choir is open to all interested students, and no prior experience is necessary. Children will learn the Joseph Kline Vocal Production Method and study a variety of music. Festivals require classical music; show tunes and choreography are included in each semester performance. State standards are also incorporated into the grading requirements. Students may enroll in choir for one semester or for the entire year.
Choir Handbook ~ Fundraising
Orchestra: BHMS offers two levels of Orchestra. Sixth grade Orchestra is a full year course that is open to all students regardless of prior musical training. Students must provide their own violins and violas. The school will provide cellos and basses for school use only. Advanced Orchestra is open to 7th and 8th grade students with at least one year of experience with a stringed instrument. Please visit the Orchestra website for complete information: Orchestra Website
State Academic Content Standards
Spanish: BHMS offers two courses in Spanish: Exploring Spanish - This is a one-semester class for the student who would like to explore a foreign language. It focuses on some beginning concepts and principles of basic Spanish. The class includes some cultural components that highlight some of the differences between American and Hispanic culture. Exploring Spanish helps prepare students to take Spanish in 8th grade or in high school. Spanish 1-2 is a first year high school level foreign language course. This course offers students an opportunity to develop their skills in listening, reading, speaking, writing, and their sensitivity to cultural differences. This course contributes to meeting college entrance requirements. Enrolling students need STRONG BASIC SKILLS in English, as well as good study habits as a prerequisite for success in this class.
Student Assistant: Students will perform a variety of responsibilities particular to their assignment. Students are placed in the following settings: the administration office, library, computer lab, or individual teacher classrooms. Students who exhibit above average citizenship, are capable of operating independently, and are self-starters do well in this position. A student assistant position fosters positive character traits necessary for success in the world of work.