Academy Program Classes
Academy students are given more time to learn. Academy students receive 70 minutes of
math instruction compared to the regular BMMS schedule of 48 minutes.
Academy students also have a 24-minute "Raider Time" class where they get more time for Math,
Language Arts support, study time and extended curriculum (Character Counts, AVID, career exploration,
etc.)
Click here to find out more about the Academy Math Path
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6th Grade
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7th Grade
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8th Grade
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LANGUAGE ARTS - This course is a LITERATURE BASED, MEANING CENTERED, INTEGRATED program in accordance with the
State framework. Listening, speaking, reading and writing activities will be emphasized. Process skills
will be taught in the context of the authentic language activities.
State Link: http://www.cde.ca.gov/ci
District Link: http://powayusd.sdcoe.k12.ca.us/admin/lss/teacher-resources
HISTORY/SOCIAL SCIENCE - This sixth grade course focuses on the in-depth study of the
history of ancient civilizations from Early People through the Decline and Fall of the Roman Empire.
Included in this study are the early societies of the Near East and Africa, the ancient Hebrew civilization,
Greece, Rome and the classical civilizations of India and of China.
6th Grade Math and Science
MATH 6 - The Academy offers 6th Grade Math and Pre-Algebra. Student placement in a math class will be
determined by the elementary school in the spring, based on multiple measures.
EARTH SCIENCE - The basic course is designed to acquaint the student with life science and
physical science through reading, writing and science labs. Topics include astronomy, ecology,
electricity, planet Earth, human biology and health. Family Life, a one-week basic course,
covers the areas of hygiene, puberty, male and female reproductive systems, fertilization and growth of
the fetus, the birth process, sex roles and decision making as approved by the District.
Parent permission is required for participation.
6th Grade Electives - Full Year
INTERMEDIATE BAND - This class begins the transition from the 5th grade
exploratory stage to more advanced performance levels. Students begin establishing the fundamentals and
routines necessary for advancement. The emphasis is on self-discipline and responsibility as students
develop the technical skills and aesthetic awareness required for musical performance. Performances
include evening concerts and Coffee Concerts.
ORCHESTRA - Orchestra is open to string students. This class utilizes materials such as Strictly
Strings, Book I, and Strictly Classics, Book I. Students provide their own instruments and bring them to
school. Students are allowed to use school cellos and basses at school only and must have one at home for
daily practice (except bass). Private lessons are encouraged and daily practice is a must for student
success. Students will perform at evening concerts during the year.
CHORUS - Chorus is open to all 6th grade students. Concerts are held throughout the year with evening performances as well.
LANGUAGE ARTS - The 7th grade language arts classes encompass the study of grammar, vocabulary, literature,
and expository writing. The classes use the McDougal/Littell series, which is aligned not only with California
state standards but also the district standards and literacy goals. Our students are provided with a
well-balanced program.
State Link: http://www.cde.ca.gov/ci
District Link: http://powayusd.sdcoe.k12.ca.us/admin/lss/teacher-resources
SOCIAL STUDIES - The context of social studies for 7th grade includes history, geography, economics, and political
systems. The ancient cultures of Africa, Middle East, Asia, Europe and Meso-America provide
the foundation for the impact of feudalism, belief systems, and social changes that have taken place and
their effect on society today. See above links for references.
7th Grade Math and Science
MATH - The 7th grade mathematics covers the content of 7th grade math, pre-algebra or algebra. The
topics include an emphasis on fractions, decimals, integers, equations, graphing, and problem solving, depending
upon the course taken. Placement in the course is determined by the current teacher, based on multiple
assessments.
LIFE SCIENCE - Life Science covers the basics of life science, problem solving, the scientific method,
cells, simple organisms, plants, animals, genetics, evolution and sexually transmitted diseases.
7th Grade Electives - Full Year
CONCERT and ADVANCED BAND - Students are placed in Concert Band and Advanced Band according to
technical skills, their ability to work with others in a group setting
and instrumentation needs. Students continue to develop fundamental
skills and aesthetic awareness. A greater emphasis is placed on
individual and group performance. Performances for these groups include
Disneyland, festivals, school functions, evening concerts and Coffee Concerts.
ORCHESTRA - Orchestra is open to string students. This class meets daily. Materials such
as Strictly Strings, Book II and Strictly Classic, Book II will be used. Students provide their own
instruments. Students are allowed to use school cellos and basses, at school only, and must have an
instrument at home for daily practice (except bass). Private lessons are encouraged but not required.
CHORUS - Chorus is open to all 7th and 8th grade students. This class meets daily. Concerts are
held throughout the year.
INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH/AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination) - This is an Academy-only
elective that introduces students to the Spanish language. Students also learn
AVID skills (i.e. study skills, organization, note-taking, time management and goal setting).
LANGUAGE ARTS - The 8th grade language arts study is a varied and integrated course aligned with the California State Standards and the
Poway District Standards. Specific instruction in grammar, spelling, and vocabulary helps our students hone their
writing skills. Writing assignments can be coordinated with the current social studies content, or used to teach the
elements of literature. Public speaking and listening skills provide our students with a solid platform for future
educational experiences.
State Link: http://www.cde.ca.gov/ci
District Link: http://powayusd.sdcoe.k12.ca.us/admin/lss/teacher-resources
SOCIAL STUDIES - The 8th grade course of study provides for a chronological examination of history from colonial heritage up to
the period of 1910. With a multi-cultural perspective, literature of and about the period is stressed. This
curriculum promotes an understanding of ethics, democratic values, civic virtues and elements of good citizenship as
applied to public affairs.
8th Grade Math and Science
ALGEBRA READINESS - The topics in Algebra Readiness include an emphasis on fractions,
integers, solving equations and inequalities, graphing linear equations, and problem solving.
ALGEBRA - The topics in Algebra include an emphasis on
solving systems of equations, trigonometry, solving and graphing
quadratics, polynomials, problem solving, and rational expressions.
Placement in Algebra will be based on MAPS scores, CST results, and
teacher recommendations based on performance in Pre-Algebra.
GEOMETRY - This course is for those students who have successfully completed Algebra 1-2 with test
averages 85% or higher. Teacher recommendation is also based on MAPS scores and the UCSD diagnostic test.
PHYSICAL SCIENCE - This course covers basics of physical science and problem solving with units in motion and forces, simple machines, the
structure of matter, applied chemistry, waves, and energy. Students will have the opportunity to apply technology as it
relates to the laws of physics. A health/drug unit is included in this course.
8th Grade Electives - Full Year
CONCERT and ADVANCED BAND - Students are placed in Concert Band and Advanced Band according to
technical skills, their ability to work with others in a group setting
and instrumentation needs. Students continue to develop fundamental
skills and aesthetic awareness. A greater emphasis is placed on
individual and group performance. Performances for these groups include
Disneyland, festivals, school functions, evening concerts and Coffee Concerts.
ORCHESTRA - Orchestra is open to string students. This class meets daily. Materials such as Strictly Strings, Book II and Strictly
Classic, Book II will be used. Students provide their own instruments. Students are allowed to use school cellos and
basses, at school only, and must have an instrument at home for daily practice (except bass). Private lessons are encouraged but
not required.
CHORUS - Chorus is open to all 7th and 8th grade students. This class meets daily. Concerts are held throughout the year.
EXPLORATORY CYCLE - This course of study is developed as recommended by the California
State Guidelines for Middle Schools. Exploratory cycles will offer
students the opportunity to explore a variety of interests prior to
entering high school. The segments may include subjects such as
art, drama or journalism.
SPANISH 1-2 - Spanish 1-2 is a year course designed for the 8th grade student
wishing to begin an in-depth study of a foreign language. Students
wishing to enroll in this course should have strong language skills.
Spanish 1-2 is a high school equivalent class. Students who
successfully complete this course will be eligible for Spanish 3-4 in
9th grade.
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