TK-8 Class Descriptions 2022-2023

Welcome to the 2022-23 School Year! All classes are 50 EU’s unless noted in the description. The class schedule is designed for TK-5 students to request one class.  Students in grades 6th-8th grade can request two classes.  Middle school classes should be back to back with no gaps in-between.  Please be aware of this as you are requesting classes for the fall.  Thank you! 

TK-5 Classes

Monday 9:30-11:15

TK-1 Science and Outdoor Nature

This is an exciting 100% outdoor class, so please have your student dress for the weather! Books are the launch pad which propels us to outdoor exploration of birds, clouds, and the world around us. We will often get messy with hands-on activities. Students learn important applicable vocabulary. We explore food and its relationship to our bodies and environment. This is a 100% Outdoor Class, no matter what the weather, so students should always be geared-up and ready for outside, dressed for the appropriate weather of that day. Send your child with a mat or beach towel to sit on during class.  You will sign a field trip form since we frequently walk to the amazing tree farm behind the CORE K8 Center. Please send a snack with your child. (Please let us know if your child has food sensitivities or allergies.) 

K Math and Writing 

Welcome to Kindergarten writing and math! Your child will spend the year learning to be a writer and get to experience mathematical concepts in a group. The year will encompass proper letter formation, sight word songs and beginning journaling. Along with this will be math games and stories. 

1st Math and Writing 

Welcome to 1st writing and math! Your child will spend the year learning to be a writer and get to experience mathematical concepts in a group. The year will encompass sight word songs and beginning journaling. Along with this will be math games and stories. 

2nd Math and Writing 

Through various games, activities, and number puzzles, students will be encouraged to develop critical thinking skills amidst the problem-solving process. Small group and partner work will lay the foundation for many of the investigations, as students engage with questions that challenge their thinking and cause them to justify their reasoning!  Your child will spend the year learning to be a writer through journaling, composing paragraphs, and fun writing projects!  

3rd Math and Writing 

Welcome to 3rd Grade Math and Writing! In this class, students will have the opportunity to explore foundational 3rd grade math concepts through engaging songs, stories, games, and group challenges. We will also practice their mathematical thinking skills in a fun and collaborative environment. Students will learn to compose well-organized paragraphs based on three genres of writing (opinion, narrative, and explanatory) mixed together with some fun writing-related art projects as well!

4-5 Creative Writing and Art

In this class, 4th and 5th graders will develop creative writing pieces and add their personalized illustrations.  Students will take a unique journey through art that will expand their knowledge in different art and craft mediums through literature and hands-on projects.  In these mini-units, they will engage in weekly exploration of original art pieces and artists, follow teacher-led art instruction, and build their foundational knowledge through art vocabulary and techniques.

Mondays 11:30-1:15

TK-1 Science and Outdoor Nature

This is an exciting 100% outdoor class, so please have your student dress for the weather!  Books are the launch pad which propels us to outdoor exploration of birds, clouds, and the world around us. We will often get messy with hands-on activities. Students learn important applicable vocabulary. We explore food and its relationship to our bodies and environment. This is a 100% Outdoor Class, no matter what the weather, so students should always be geared-up and ready for outside, dressed for the appropriate weather of that day. Send your child with a mat or beach towel to sit on during class.  You will sign a field trip form since we frequently walk to the amazing tree farm behind the CORE K8 Center. Please send a lunch with your child. (Please let us know if your child has food sensitivities or allergies.) 

2-3 Exploration into C-STEM Robotics

This class will provide your student with fun and creative ways to use computers! It will teach them skills they will use for years to come. They will grow in the areas of computing, science, technology, engineering, and math education (C-STEM). The goal is to create a learning environment for students to have digital citizenship, basic computer operating skills, coding (using websites and apps) and practice keyboarding skills. This is a beginning computer science class. 

2-3 Science and Outdoor Nature

This is an exciting 100% outdoor class, so please have your student dress for the weather!  Books are the launch pad which propels us to outdoor exploration of birds, clouds, and the world around us. We will often get messy with hands-on activities. Students learn important applicable vocabulary. We explore food and its relationship to our bodies and environment. This is a 100% Outdoor Class, no matter what the weather, so students should always be geared-up and ready for outside, dressed for the appropriate weather of that day. Send your child with a mat or beach towel to sit on during class.  You will sign a field trip form since we frequently walk to the amazing tree farm behind the CORE K8 Center. Please send a lunch with your child. (Please let us know if your child has food sensitivities or allergies.) 

5th Math and Writing

Through various games, activities, and number puzzles, students will be encouraged to develop critical thinking skills amidst the problem-solving process. Small group and partner work will lay the foundation for many of the investigations, as students engage with questions that challenge their thinking and cause them to justify their reasoning!  Your child will spend the year learning to be a writer through journaling, composing paragraphs, and fun writing projects!  

5-6 Shady Creek (Nov. 7th - January 23rd)

November 7-January 23rd

Fee: 250 EU’s per student plus $75 parent cost 

The purpose of this seasonal class is to prepare students for the Shady Creek Outdoor School experience and provide a platform for reflecting on their experience. The class will run once weekly at the Chico Center and end one week after our camp time at Shady Creek Outdoor School. It will have a dual focus of environmental science activities and team building development designed to prepare students for and to enhance their week at Shady Creek. We will use the Shady Creek activity book along with hikes, research, games, a field trip, and team-building activities. In addition to learning what to expect, students will complete paperwork for Shady Creek, select nature names, participate in a field trip, hike, meet and get to know other students and staff who will be accompanying them. All communication about Shady Creek will funnel through the class and e-mails once students are enrolled. We will hold a parent meeting Monday, January 9th weeks before camp to answer questions and tie up loose ends. After attending Shady Creek Outdoor School, students will meet one last time to bring closure by reflecting on classes and activities at Shady Creek. This class is required to attend camp at Shady Creek Outdoor School.

The dates of the camp are January 17-20, but there will be one more class meeting Monday, January 23rd after return from Camp.

There will be one scheduled field, to be announced later. Parents will provide student transportation to and from the field trip and are encouraged to join in.

Parents are responsible for all transportation to camp. This is a seasonal class limited to 12 students.

Mondays 1:30-3:15

4th Math and Writing

This fourth grade class will offer opportunities to focus on math concepts and problem solving with an emphasis on partnered and small group challenges.  Students will be given the opportunity to take on the memorization of multiplication facts to 12.  They will practice mental math and share different ways of thinking about math in math talks.  This class will learn the value of collaborative work as exciting and puzzling challenges are presented while learning problem solving strategies and working to solve multiple-step problems in the four operations (addition, subtraction, multiplication and division) including fractions and some geometry.  Students will learn to write well-composed explanations to explain their way of working on and solving problems.  To develop writing skills, students will explore the variety of ways to use paragraphs to share opinions, tell about new information learned from two or more sources, and write personal and fictitious narratives.  Working through the writing process in all the steps, discovery/investigation, pre-writing, drafting, editing, and revising, students will complete writing pieces to be proud of. 

4-5 Exploration into C-STEM Robotics

With the use of robotics (Lego WeDo) this class grows the students capacity for creativity and fun by teaching computing, science, technology, engineering, and math education (CSTEM). The goal is to create a learning environment for students to build, program, and explore according to certain specifications using learned concepts and skills from CSTEM.   Students solve a task by using the 'Design Process' to identify and investigate, create and implement, and then test and improve.  Students then follow-up the process with an explanation of the solution.  Desired outcomes for students are to develop Creativity, Critical Thinking and Problem Solving skills, Communication and Collaboration, and to teach new technology skills that can be applied in a variety of settings.

2-3 Gardening (FALL Semester ONLY)

The garden provides a dynamic environment in which students can observe, discover, experiment, nurture, and learn. It is a living laboratory where lessons are drawn from real-life experiences rather than textbook examples, allowing students to become active participants in the learning process. Students will gain an understanding of ecosystems, an appreciation for food origins and nutrition, and knowledge of plant and animal life cycles, all while learning practical gardening skills that will last a lifetime!

Wednesday 9:30-11:15

Tk-1 Adventures in Art and Music

In this Tk-1st Adventures in Art and Music center class, students will be given the opportunity to participate in a variety of creative art projects based on a theme for each class session. The theme will center around a story that corresponds with the time of year, season, holiday or event throughout the year. To go along with the theme there will usually be a song, movement activity, math and/or language arts page. Students will not only get the chance to interact with their peers, they will also experience what it’s like to be in a classroom setting. 

2-3 Spanish

Through songs, crafts, and games, students will collaboratively explore projects and activities that encourage creativity and expand language abilities. Children of any linguistic background are welcome!

4-5 Art and Science 

Calling all artists and lovers of science! In this class we will be exploring the concepts of science through different art mediums. We will investigate science topics through literature books, videos, direct drawings, nature walks, and hands-on art projects. We will be compiling an interactive science notebook throughout the year and merging science and art together through different units of study. 

Wednesday 11:30-1:15

Tk-K Math and Writing

Welcome to TK-K writing and math! Your child will spend the year learning to be a writer and get to experience mathematical concepts in a group. The year will encompass proper letter formation, sight word songs and beginning journaling. Along with this will be math games and stories. 

1st Math and Writing

Welcome to 1st writing and math! Your child will spend the year learning to be a writer and get to experience mathematical concepts in a group. The year will encompass sight word songs and beginning journaling. Along with this will be math games and stories. 

2-3 Art and Science

Calling all artists and lovers of science! In this class we will be exploring the concepts of science through different art mediums. We will investigate science topics through literature books, videos, direct drawings, nature walks, and hands-on art projects. We will be compiling an interactive science notebook throughout the year and merging science and art together through different units of study. 

3-5 G-R-I-T Growth-Resilience-Integrity-Together

Calling all 3rd-5th graders! Join us for games, crafts, and mind benders as we collaboratively build a toolkit to navigate challenges and build character. Through visual metaphors and hands-on activities, we will explore problem-solving and resilience skills together! Come join the fun!

4-5 Art Around the World

Students will use a variety of mediums to explore concepts in world history and to better understand how art is used to document human experience. In addition to art projects, kids will use computers to complete digital projects to learn about art history. This is a hands-on class designed for kids to engage their creativity and collaborate with peers.

6th ~ Math

Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30-11:25

This class will explore foundational 6th grade math concepts. Parents are the primary math teacher for their student, responsible for grading, daily monitoring, and teaching lessons at home.  Class instruction will support the learning at home by reviewing important concepts, practicing with examples, and answering any homework questions students may have. The class requires students to use the Common Core Coach Mathematics curriculum.

7th ~ Math

Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30-10:25

OR

Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30-11:25

Students will meet weekly to receive direct instruction for 7th grade math. The teacher will set expectations for work completion using a 2-week schedule that will be emailed to parents. Parents are still the primary math teacher for their student and are responsible for grading, daily monitoring and teaching lessons at home. The classroom teacher is supporting the learning at home by going over examples, reviewing important concepts, and answering questions from the book during class. Parents are welcome to attend class. The class requires students to use the Big Ideas curriculum and regular attendance is a must.

8th ~ High School Prep Math

Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30-10:25

OR

Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30-11:25

This class is designed to prepare students for high school math courses by providing structure, expectations, and assessment that are typical in a high school environment. The class requires students to use the Big Ideas 8th grade math curriculum, and regular attendance is a must. The teacher will regularly communicate with PLTs and parents about grades, attendance, and assignments.

8th ~ High School Prep English

Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30-10:25

OR

Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30-11:25

This supplementary English class will be using Common Core standards to prepare students for high school English. It will meet twice weekly. It will encompass critical reading and responding to literature, writing, speaking, collaborating, and technology. The class will involve a variety of classroom learning styles and projects. As a class, we will be reading 6 novels throughout the year and completing writing projects each learning period. The classroom teacher will communicate weekly with parents and PLT's with specific classroom assignments, and provide a suggested grade each learning period for each student. Parents will ensure that students attend class regularly and help students complete assignments in writing, reading, and vocabulary at home. Parents will grade work from Grammar and vocabulary books. The PLT will assist the parent in choosing a spelling/vocabulary curriculum. The PLT will issue assignments and a grade for Language Arts including writing, with input from classroom teacher and parent.

6th/7th/8th ~ Life Science (Thursdays only)

Thursdays 12:30-2:25

Exploring Life Science with intriguing discussions, demonstrations and activities! Our students come from a variety of science backgrounds and experiences, therefore our “next steps” goal is to help them articulate and formalize their understanding of the world around them. Students and their families will delve into the world of defining life, chemistry of living things, the basic structure and functions of cells, DNA, cellular reproduction, heredity, the kingdoms of life, human anatomy and physiology, and lastly, nutrition. We are hoping to get an opportunity for some hands-on activities including dissections. This class will be a great supplement to the scientific concepts you are studying at home.

6th/7th ~ English Language Arts

Tuesdays & Thursdays 9:30-10:25

OR

Tuesdays & Thursdays 10:30-11:25

In the reading/writing workshop students will read engaging texts from a variety of genres that spark discussion and further exploration. Students will learn that writing is not merely something we do after we’ve done our thinking, but that through writing and rewriting we learn how to think critically and refine our understanding of ideas. Many students are all too familiar with feelings of self-doubt and discouragement when faced with reading a difficult text or completing a writing assignment. This class will help students understand that these feelings are natural, but with persistence they can grow in courage and self-confidence! Students will have the time they need to explore, make mistakes, and try again. This course will take students through the steps of the writing process (inquiry, brainstorm, organize & outline, draft, revise, edit, publish & share) in four different genres: narrative, expository, argument, and poetry.

7th/8th ~ Health Class (Spring semester only)

Tuesdays & Thursdays 1:30-2:25 (Spring semester only)

This class is designed to promote awareness of social-emotional and physical developmental needs so students can make educated and responsible personal health decisions. Areas of study will include sleep, social media, vaping and other drugs, nutrition and exercise, and sexual health. Students can meet the sexual health course requirement by completing this center class or the Positive Prevention Plus online course through their PLT. 

6th/7th/8th ~ Speech & Debate

Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:30-12:25

This class will develop and improve public speaking skills. Students will be asked to prepare (during class time) and deliver speeches in the following genres: informative, demonstrative, and impromptu.  Students will also participate in class debates. Speech anxiety solutions and active listening skills will be covered as well. Join us as we tackle the fear of public speaking in this fun and interactive class.

6th/7th/8th ~ Earth Science

Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:30-12:25

This 6th-8th grade science class will use enrichment activities and electronic simulations to support the middle school earth science standards. Students will use google classroom, slides, and presentations to learn about earthquakes, volcanoes, layers of the earth, and more.This class will be a great supplement to the scientific concepts being studied at home.

6th/7th/8th ~ Digital Media, Journalism, & Yearbook

Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:30-12:25

This class will focus on a number of different digital projects that include graphics and writing, as well as working to complete the yearbook. This year’s yearbook could possibly have very different features from previous years; however, we look forward to filling it up with the unique learning experiences that this year will bring. In addition to completing the yearbook, we will design various forms of digital media, highlight how to navigate google suite, and be a well informed digital citizen in our current culture.

6th/7th/8th ~ SketchUp

Tuesdays and Thursdays 2:30-3:25

SketchUp is a 3-D design program that allows students to creatively approach NGSS Engineering and Design standards. It's a great platform for demonstrating learning, designing solutions, and illustrating concepts. The program lends itself to the design and construction of buildings while reinforcing spatial awareness and mathematical concepts. Students will need to consider perimeter, area, measurements, and how to fill space effectively. Once the basic understanding of the user-friendly software is grasped there is an endless potential for modeling.  In Nutrition study, students can design food packaging and labels.  Social studies timelines come to life with 3D images helping to visualize any time or place with imported imagery. Storyboards, city scapes, biomes, and just about anything that can be designed for a 3D printer are among some starting ideas for using this great learning tool.

8th ~ Physical Science

Tuesdays Only 12:30-2:25

This 8th grade Physical Science class will use fun hands-on science experiments and enrichment activities to support the middle school physical science standards. Students will work cooperatively to do laboratory investigations testing the concepts of density, forces and motion, and the laws of motion. An exploration of chemistry will include a general understanding of the periodic table and atomic modeling. This class will be a great supplement to the scientific concepts you are studying at home.

6th/7th/8th ~ Moving & Cartooning

Tuesdays Only 12:30-2:25

Part of the time the class will include teaching students foreshadowing, sketching techniques, visual perspective, and creative cartoon-style drawing. The other part of the class will include fun traditional classroom PE games and sports activities. Non-competitive.

6th/7th/8th ~ EPIC

Thursday ONLY 1:30-3:25

As a middle school leadership class, EPIC aims to help students build effective leadership and communication skills, foster healthy interactions among students, and help to establish a positive school culture.  Through planning and hosting middle school events, community outreach opportunities, and fundraisers, EPIC students serve as leaders and role models on campus.  As such, EPIC students must be able to set an example for others and be willing to participate outside of class time when called upon to do so.  Come learn what it means to be a “big elephant!”

6th/7th/8th ~ G.R.I.T.  (Growth-Resilience-Integrity… Together)

Thursdays Only 12:30-2:25

Calling all 6th-8th graders! Join us for games, crafts, and mind benders as we collaboratively build a toolkit to navigate challenges and build character. Through visual metaphors and hands-on activities, we will explore problem-solving and resilience skills together! Come join the fun!

6th/7th/8th ~ Math Strategies

Tuesdays Only 2:30-3:25

When it comes to middle school math, is your student struggling with speed, fluency, or asking the age old question of “When will I ever use this?!”? 

Come and join in as we focus on tackling math in a new way, which we hope will prepare students for success in their day-to-day math curriculum! We will meet once a week for fast paced math games, challenges and engaging activities all focused around building stronger and more confident middle-school mathletes. Students will grow as they compete and work through their personal math goals. No pre-requisites or specific math curriculum is required.

6th/7th/8th ~ Intro to Ukulele

Tuesdays & Thursdays 12:30-1:25

Tuesdays & Thursdays 12:30-1:25Anyone can be a ukulele player! This class is an introduction to the ukulele instrument and will provide students with instant access to making music in a collaborative group setting. No prior music experience necessary for this class.  We will focus on the basics of music from tuning, strumming and rhythms, reading music to play songs, improvising, and beginning songwriting.

6th/7th/8th ~ Spanish

Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:30-12:25

This beginning Spanish class will help students learn basic skills for understanding, speaking, reading, and writing Spanish through engaging and creative activities.

6th/7th/8th ~ Art

Section 1: Tuesdays & Thursdays 11:30-12:25

Section 2: Tuesdays and Thursdays 1: 30-2:25

This class will teach students about the elements of art and design. Students will study various artists and use their work as inspiration to create their own pieces. Students will also be exposed to various techniques and mediums. Join us as we explore our creative side.

6th/7th/8th ~ Theater 

Tuesdays Only 12:30-2:25

This class will provide students with collaborative rehearsed and improvisational theater activities that will help develop presentational and acting skills. Students will learn about creative movement, voice in performance and public speaking, and scene studies through published dramatic works as well as student generated playwriting. Desired outcomes for students are to develop a lifelong creative process, empathetic approaches to relationships, and abilities to effectively convey ideas, express feelings, and solve problems through storytelling and the dramatic process. 

6th/7th/8th ~ Study Skills

Tuesdays & Thursdays 2:30-3:25

This class will help students develop and practice skills that support organization, time management, effective study habits, and goal setting. Students will develop these skills through teacher-led mini-lessons, guest speakers, and other activities. Students will spend part of each hour working on their own assignments and applying the skills they have learned to their own studies.