The Connellsville Area School District’s Curriculum K-12 is based on the Pennsylvania Department of Education’s Standards-Aligned System. The Pennsylvania Standards Aligned System (SAS) is a
research-based web resource in which six distinct elements are identified. If the six elements are implemented with fidelity, it is the expectation that improved student achievement will occur. The six elements of student achievement are clear standards, fair assessments, curriculum framework, instruction, materials & resources, and interventions. Click on www.pdesas.org to access the SAS website.
Keystone Exams
The Keystone Exams are end-of-course assessments designed to assess proficiency in various subjects. The following Keystone Exams are available: Algebra I, Literature and Biology. In future years, pending funding, additional Keystone Exams will be administered.
The Keystone Exams are one component ofPennsylvania’s system of high school graduation requirements. KeystoneExams will help school districts guide students toward meeting state standards.For more information with regard to the Keystone Exams, click on the Keystone Exam Information forParents or Guardians (pdf below). Also, for students who will be required to complete a Project-Based Assessment in order to fulfill state level graduation requirements (starting with the Class of 2017), please click on the link http://pba.pdesas.org/FAQ to learn more about Project-Based Assessments.
High School Graduation Requirements
The Commonwealth’s graduation requirements will help guarantee that a Pennsylvania diploma reflects the skills and knowledge graduating students need to be successful in college and the workplace. These requirements will allow districts to ensure students are meeting state standards. Please click on the Guide for Parents (pdf below) to view the Parents' Guide to the Changes in the High School Graduation Requirements.
School Performance Profile
School Performance Profile
The School Performance Profile provides the public with a comprehensive overview ofstudent academic performance in every Pennsylvania public school building, including traditional public schools, charter schools, cyber charter schools and career and technology centers.
Designed to serve three purposes, the School Performance Profile will be used for federal accountability for Title I schools under the state's approved federal No Child Left Behind waiver, the new teacher and principal evaluation system that was signed into law in 2012 and to provide the public with information on how public schools across Pennsylvania are academically performing.
Helpful Information About the School Performance Profile:
The School Performance Profile is scheduled to go live on October 4, 2013.
Understanding the School Performance Profile Video (Recorded on 9/17/13)
Program of Studies: K-3
Primary Program of Studies
The Connellsville Area School District’s Primary Program (Grades K – 3) provides a strong foundation for children in English/Language Arts (ELA) and Mathematics. All children are also exposed to science, social studies, music, art, health and physical education, computer applications, and library. The ELA and Math curricula (K-6) have been aligned to the Pennsylvania Core Standards. All other curricular areas are aligned to the PA Academic Standards.
English/Language Arts (ELA)
The ReadingStreet series by Pearson is used in Grades K – 6. ELA is taught in a 90-minute block of time, daily. ReadingStreet is a comprehensive language arts program which emphasizes reading, grammar, writing, spelling, phonics, speaking, and listening.
Through the implementation of Responseto Intervention and Instruction (RTII) in ELA, children receive targeted instruction based on their needs, as determined by the data from AIMSweb and Diagnostic testing. Students are assessed throughout the year to assure proper instructional grouping. Instruction includes, but is not limited to, phonetic skills, phonemic awareness, comprehension skills, and word fluency skills. Intervention periods are incorporated into the schedule for an additional 35 minutes per day,three days each week, to target specific skill deficits. Decodable readers and activities provided through the Florida Center for Reading Research are used to target skill weaknesses.
Supplemental Instructional Programs
Technology is an integral part of English/Language Arts instruction. Students in Grades K – 2 may access Study Island Reading Eggs for additional practice and support. Each student was issued a username and password. Students in Grades 2 – 6 may access Study Island for additional ELA support.
Mathematics
The Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Go Math! is the math series used in Grades K – 6. It is based on the Common Core Standards. The core math program will help students to develop a conceptual understanding of mathematics. Math istaught daily for 60 minutes.
In Kindergarten, the students will learn the following concepts: Counting and Cardinality, Geometry, Measurement and Data, Numbers and Operations in Base Ten, Operations and Algebraic Thinking. In Grades 1 – 3, the students will learn the following concepts: Geometry, Measurement and Data, Numbers and Operations in Base Ten, Operations andAlgebraic Thinking. Also in Grade 3, the students will learn Numbers and Operations – Fractions. With the Common Core Standards, concepts are developed each year as the children progress through the grade levels.
Supplemental Instructional Programs
Technology is integrated into the math curriculum as well. The students use www.thinkcentral.comfor instructional support in the Go Math series. Each student was issued a username and password to access these resources.
The Academy of Math is used as a remedial instructional tool for the students. In addition to using Study Island for ELA remediation, Study Island is used in mathematics, as well.
Science
The Science curriculum is aligned to the Pennsylvania Academic Standards. Science instruction occurs every other day. Our students in Grades K – 8 use Science Matters kits, in addition to the grade level standards-based curriculum,for Science instruction. Science Matters, launched in 1996 at the IU1 STEM Center, was designed to change the way science is taught and learned. The program provides nationally endorsed curriculum modules, teacher training, classroom follow-up, and kit refurbishment to support K – 8 inquiry-based science.
Science concepts that students learn in Kindergarten include: Weather and trees. The following Science Matters Kits will also be used in Kindergarten: Exploring Force and Motion and Exploring Plants and Animals.
Students in Grade 1 learn the following science concepts: ecosystems, plants, and animals. The following Science Matters Kits will also be used in Grade 1: Air and Weather and Organisms.
Students in Grade 2 learn the following concept: Matter. The following Science Matters Kits will be used in Grade 2: Soils and the Lifecycle of Butterflies.
Students in Grade 3 will learn the following concept: Habitats. The following Science Matters Kits will also be used in Grade 3: Ready to Learn Science, Ideas and Inventions, and Rocks and Minerals.
Social Studies
Various content skills are taught at each grade level. The students learn about civics and government, history, geography, economics, and sociology through various activities. Social studies instruction occurs every other day.
KINDERGARTEN
Students will be introduced to the basic elements of socialstudies with emphasis on their relationships with their peers, their school,their families, and the local community. Other topics will include: basic geography skills, using maps and globes, holidays, local governmentauthorities, and school and community rules. Local and historical figures of importance will be studied. The map skills for Kindergarten students may include basic maps of the school building.
GRADE ONE
Health
Students will learn how to build healthy lifestyles through the health instruction. Topics include: nutrition, the human body, exercise, wellness, and good health practices. The health and physical education teacher, along with the classroom teacher, teach the health lessons. Health and physical education are taught by the Health and Physical Education-certified staff. Progress in Health and physical education are reported to parents on the students’ report cards for the second and fourth nine weeks as Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. The School Nurse and Guidance Counselor make presentations to reinforce topics(relevant to their respective fields) that are taught by the classroom teacher.
Library
The students are scheduled one time perweek for Library class with a Librarian. The students are exposed to various forms of literature and learn library skills. Other skills that the students learn during Library class include research skills and how to retrieve information using the Internet and other resources. Students in Grades K – 6are given the opportunity to obtain books from the library through the use of the computerized card catalog system.
Music
Students are schedule one time per weekfor Music class with a Music teacher. Students are provided with musical knowledge through various activities which include singing and movement. Students will gain an understanding of the music elements such as rhythm, melody, and harmony. Students will also learn about various composers, time periods, and style.
Physical Education
The students will be provided with skill development activities, games, relays, athletic games, activities that encourage physical fitness, dance, cooperation, and will learn lifelong skills which will help to promote a healthy lifestyle. Students in Grades K- 3 are scheduled for physical education one time per week with the Health and Physical Education Teacher.
Special Programs
Art.Art Standards are addressed in the content areas through projects assigned to the students in Grades K – 3.
ComputerApplications. All students in GradesK – 12 are instructed in Internet Safety by the computer teachers and librarians. Students in Grades K – 2 are exposed to technology during computer lab time while they work on their supplemental math and ELA programs. The computer teachers teach the children at those grade levels touch typing skills. Students in Grade 3 are taught basic computer operations, proper typing skills, computer care, media storage, and how to use various Microsoft Office products.
Handwriting. The Peterson Handwriting Program is used in Grades K– 6. Students in Grades K and 1 are taught how to print properly (formal manuscript). Students in Grade 2 are taught how to properly write in the cursive style, through the use of the Peterson Handwriting Program.
Program of Studies: Grades 4-5
Grades 4-5
The ELA and Math curricula (K-5) have been aligned to the Pennsylvania Core Standards. All other curricular areas are aligned to the PA Academic Standards.
English/Language Arts (ELA)
Supplemental Instructional Programs
Students in Grades 4 – 5 may access EdInsight for additional ELA support. Each student will have a username and password.
Mathematics
The Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Go Math! is the math series used in Grades K – 5. It is based on the Common Core Standards. The core math program will help students to develop a conceptual understanding of mathematics. Math is taught daily for 60 minutes.
In Grade 4, the students will learn the following concepts: Geometry, Measurement and Data, Numbers and Operations in Base Ten, Numbers and Operations – Fractions, Operations and Algebraic Thinking. In Grade 5, the students will learn the following concepts: Geometry, Measurement and Data, Numbers and Operations in Base Ten, Operations and Algebraic Thinking.
Supplemental Instructional Programs
Technology is integrated into the math curriculum as well. The students use www.thinkcentral.com for instructional support in the Go Math series. Each student was issued a username and password to access these resources.
Science
Our students in Grades K – 8 use Science Matters kits, in addition to the grade level standards-based curriculum,for Science instruction. Science Matters, launched in 1996 at the IU1 STEM Center, was designed to change the way science is taught and learned. The program provides nationally endorsed curriculum modules, teacher training, classroom follow-up, and kit refurbishment to support K – 8 inquiry-based science.
Students in Grade 4 Science will use the following Science Matters Kits: Water Planet; Magnetism and Electricity. Other concepts which will be explored in Grade 4 Science include: Heat, Light, Motion, Animals,Ecosystems, and Invasive Species.
Students in Grade 5 Science will use the following Science Matters Kits: Ecosystems; Motion and Design. Other concepts which will be explored in Grade 5 Science include: Life Science, Environmental and Earth Science, and Planetary Science.
Various content skills are taught at each grade level. The students learn about civics and government, history, geography, economics, and sociology through various activities. Social studies instruction occurs every other day.
Grade Four
Students will gain an understanding of the geography, culture, economics, and government of the United States. The five regions of the United States will be addressed, which will include a study of the geography, history,and economics of each region. Map and globe skills will be addressed. National and international current events will also be discussed.
Grade Five
An in-depth study of early American history will be the focus for Grade Five. Included in the study will be the origins of America, early explorers, colonial period, Revolutionary War, the Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.Students will also gain an understanding of world and U.S. history, geography, culture, government, and economics.
Students will learn how to build healthy lifestyles through the health instruction. Topics include: nutrition, drug awareness, wellness, growth and human development, exercise, and good health practices. Health and physical education are taught by the Health and Physical Education-certified staff. Progress in Health and physical education are reported to parents on the students’ report cards for the second and fourth nine weeks as Satisfactory or Unsatisfactory. The School Nurse and Guidance Counselor make presentations to reinforce topics(relevant to their respective fields) that are taught by the classroom teacher.
The students are scheduled one time perweek for Library class with a Librarian. The students are exposed to various forms of literature and learn library skills. Other skills that the students learn during Library class include research skills and how to retrieve information using the Internet and other resources. Students in Grades K – 5 are given the opportunity to obtain books from the library through the use of the computerized card catalog system. Progress in the students’ Library skills is reported to parents on the students’ report cards for the second and fourthnine weeks.
Students are schedule one time per week for Music class with a Music teacher. Students are provided with musical knowledge through various activities which include singing and movement. Students will gain an understanding of musical knowledge which will be relevant throughout the students’ lives. Progress in Music is reported to parents on the students’ report cards for the second and fourth nine week periods.
Band*
Band is performance-based and geared for novice to moderate aptitude level instrumentalists in the music program. In addition to the concert band repertoire, the students will have experience performing in a marching band setting. Students will participate in group lessons, which will be based on a class pull-out rotation schedule. Students will perform in parades and concerts during the school year. Band is an available option for students in Grades 4 and 5.
*Exceptionally talented instrumentalists in Grade 5 will have the opportunity to audition for All-Star Band. All-Star Band is an additional program that functions after school. The most talented band students from all eight elementary buildings make up one band to perform in All-Star Band Concerts.
Chorus*
Chorus is a vocal performance ensemble. Vocal skills are refined throughout the year, including an introduction to basic musicianship. Objectives addressed include note reading andpart singing. Students will demonstrate understanding of musical terms, using proper breath support, singing with accurate diction and proper vowel placement. Students will perform in concerts during the school year. Chorus is an available option for students in Grades 5.
*Exceptionally talented vocalists in Grade 5 will have the opportunity to audition for All-Star Chorus. All-Star Chorus is an additional program that functions in the evenings, after school. The most talented choral students from all eight elementary buildings make up one chorus to perform in All-Star Chorus Concerts.
The students will be provided with skill development activities, games, relays, athletic games, activities that encourage physical fitness, dance, cooperation, and will learn lifelong skills which will help to promote a healthy lifestyle. Students in Grades 4 and 5 are scheduled for physical education one time per week with the Health and Physical Education Teacher. Appropriate clothing and footwear should be worn on the day that the student is scheduled for physical education. Progress in PhysicalEducation is reported to parents on the students’ report cards for the second and fourth nine week periods.
Fourth Grade Swimming Program
Students in Grade 4 are transported to the senior high school every Wednesday for three (3) weeks for swimming instruction. Senior high physical education teachers provide the instruction. All fourth grade students are required to participate in the program.
Art. Art Standards are addressed in the content areas through projects assigned to the students in Grades 4 and 5.
Computer Applications. All students in Grades K – 12 are instructed in Internet Safety by the computer teachers and librarians. Students in Grades 4 and 5 are exposed to technology during computer lab time while they work on their supplemental math and ELA programs. Students in Grades 4 and 5 are taught computer operations, computer care, media storage, and how to use various Microsoft Office products, including powerpoint. Proper typing skills continue to be addressed.
Handwriting. The Peterson Handwriting Program is used in Grades K– 5. Students in Grades K and 1 are taught how to print properly (formal manuscript). Students in Grade 2 are taught how to properly write in the cursive style, through the use of the Peterson Handwriting Program. Handwriting progress is reported to parents on the students’ report cards on the second and fourth nine weeks.
Program of Studies: Middle School
Grade Six students will be placed in one of three teams. Each team will consist of: English, Reading, math, science, and social studies. The students will have a rotation of classes in: art, computer science, health/physical education, technology education, and music.
In math, the students will learn Expressions and Equations,Geometry, Ratios and Proportional Relationships, Statistics and Probability,and the Number System.
In science, students will use the following Science Matters Kits: Earth History; Weather and Water. Other concepts which will be explored in Grade 6 Science include: Physical Science.
In social studies, students will continue with their study of the Constitution. Their study of U.S. History will conclude with World War I. A study of the world’s regions and people will be conducted. A study of physical and human geography, with a focus on the physical characteristics of the Earth, historical and cultural development of its people will be emphasized. Ongoing geographic skills and a study of the demographics of all of the regions of the world will be included.
Seventh grade students will be scheduled the following courses:
*Wellness 7 will alternate all year on a 6-day cycle with Computer Applications 7 for the student’s seventh grade year.
**The seventh grade student will be exposed to a 9 week exploratory (each) of art, technology education, family and consumer science, and geography.
***Academic Support will be scheduled for students who need additional enrichment and support, typically in the areas of math and reading. Some students will elect to participate in other courses that will alternate all year such as band, chorus, Robotics 7, Word Enrichment, and/or Gifted.
Eighth grade students will be scheduled the following courses:
Math (Pre-Algebra, Algebra Concepts, Honors Algebra I)
*Wellness 8 will alternate all year on a 6-day cycle. Students who are enrolled in Reading all year will be enrolled in the Computer Applications 8 course, which will alternate with Wellness 8.
**The eighth grade student will be exposed to a 9 week exploratory (each) of art, technology education, family and consumer science, and music.
***Academic Support will be scheduled for students who need additional enrichment and support, typically in the areas of math and reading. Some students will elect to participate in other courses that will alternate all year, such as band, chorus, Robotics 8, Computer Applications 8, Study Skills, Consumer Education, and/or Gifted.
Art 7
Art 7 is an exploration of the materials, techniques, concepts, and processes essential to understanding the visual arts. Students will build and apply their skills and knowledge of the elements of art and principles of design, by creating various artworks. Students will experiment with a variety of media including pencil, watercolor, tempera, acrylic, clay and printmaking.
Grading: District Grade Scale
9 week course
Grade 7
Art 8
Art 8 will build upon Art 7. Students will gain a deeper understanding of the elements of art and principles of design. The students will learn new ways of using these techniques by creating multiple artworks to add to their art backgrounds. Students will touch on a variety of media including pencil, chalk pastels, pen & ink, clay, acrylic and printmaking. These skills are required for high school art.
Grading: District Grade Scale
9 week course
Grade 8
Computer Applications 7
Students will learn Windows basics, and will be presented with intermediate and advanced word processing skills such as: changing margins, changing page orientation, creating newsletters, using clip art and graphics, text alignment, using the autocorrect feature, etc. They will also continue to use and improve their keyboarding skills. Internet Safety will also be emphasized.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grade 7
Computer Applications 8
In this course, students will be presented with an introduction to various computer programs that are available. A study of how technology has evolved (including the marketing of technology) will be discussed. Students will also learn how to use Publisher and other software packages which will allow the students to create brochures, other publications, and videos. Internet Safety will also be emphasized.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grade 8
The Pennsylvania Core Standards are calling for an increasingly integrated approach to English and Language Arts (ELA). As students enter the workforce, technical training, or college, they will need to read and comprehend non-fictional technical manuals, complex textbooks, and be able to argue their suggestions for solving problems or promoting projects with relevant reasons and sound logic. To efficiently achieve these daunting tasks, effective curriculum and instruction will need to build on the content and skills throughout the curriculum. Teachers in the fields of Science, Technology, Social Studies, and History will use the skills of comprehension and writing taught in the ELA Curriculum, while ELA teachers will use the complex text available in the science and social studies fields.
The 7th and 8th Grade Reading Curricula in Connellsville are addressing the need for an increasingly integrated approach not only between reading and English, but also within the history and social studies curricula. The development of skills of analyzing story structure for theme, characterization, and plot sequence will occur in the English curriculum.
Academic English 7 and 8
Academic English 7 and 8 are courses which have been designed to challenge the seventh and eighth grade student who demonstrates a goal of going to college and who has proven to be capable of meeting academic challenges with success. A rigorous emphasis has been placed on the analysis of literature through discussion and writing. Research skills are further developed, essay writing in response to literature is practiced, creative writing abilities are developed, and grammar in writing is explored.
Students are expected to think on higher cognitive levels. Daily connections are made between reading, writing and life experiences. Recommendation for placement in the Academic English courses is based on the following data: formative and summative assessments, district test results, state test results, and student grades.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full Year: Everyday
Grades 7 and 8
English 7 and 8
English courses for seventh and eighth grade students were designed to develop the student’s communication and thinking skills through the integrated study of language, literature, and writing. Language study emphasizes sentence patterns, punctuation, spelling, vocabulary, and usage. The study of the writing process includes further development of skills and working with multi-paragraph writings in narrative, descriptive, and expository writing. The study of literature includes the genre or thematic approach, stressing an understanding of literary terminology and author’s purpose. Vocabulary enrichment and Study Island help to support student learning in these courses.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full Year: Everyday
Grades 7 and 8
Study Skills Study Skills incorporates mapping, note-taking, skimming, scanning, critical thinking, memorizing, listening skills, the use of acronyms, mnemonic devices and oxymoron relatives to related content subjects.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester Course
Grade Level: 8
Word Enrichment
Students will learn words by identifying word parts or word families that share sounds; build vocabulary through the use of poetry, word endings, and simple word roots; reinforce learning through routine and purposeful repetition.
Students will also learn the meanings of Greek and Latin roots; build essential strategies to use root words to unlock the meanings of unknown words; reinforce learning with a wide variety of robust activities.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grade: 7
Family and Consumer Science 7
Students will work on each concept in computer modules in a nine- week period. The concepts which will be addressed in Grade 7 Family and Consumer Science include: Managing personal finances and work decisions; Factors that affect housing; Consumer Rights and Responsibilities; Income & fringe benefits in the workplace; Strategies to obtain goods and services; Providers that serve the family; Analyze diet and disease relationships; Eating disorders and food addictions; Food requirements for various stages of the life cycle; Technology and the food supply; Conserving and recycling; Safety and sanitation; Food planning and prep; Meal management principles.
Grading: District Grade Scale
9 week course
Grade 7
Family and Consumer Science 8
Students will work on each concept in computer modules in a nine- week period. The concepts which will be addressed in Grade 8 Family and Consumer Science include: Communicating with Children; Keeping children safe; Keeping children healthy; Child care in Action; Child development; Working on the job; Budgeting; Balancing work and family; Work within the family; Family and the Community; Food science and nutrition; Table Manners.
Grading: District Grade Scale
9 week course
Grade 8
Consumer Education Students will learn to manage their resources to achieve economic goals and to make decisions in relation to savings, checking, credit, employment, food, clothing, and housing.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester Course
Grade Level: 8
Wellness 7
Physical well-being is dependent upon knowledge about food and nutrition and discourages the use of tobacco and drugs. Physical activity and sound choices with regard to consumption lead to a high level of wellness. Students will spend time each week building endurance, flexibility, and physical strength, in addition to learning about the awareness of safety precautions. They will also gain an understanding of the relationship between nutrition and how the human body performs.
Additionally, students will learn alternatives to relieve stress when their physical, emotional, intellectual, and/or social needs are not met. They will be encouraged to set goals to take the appropriate steps for making improvements in their physical, emotional, intellectual, and/or social well-being. Students will learn strategies that enable them to choose the best alternative for avoiding health risks and dangerous situations.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grade 7
Wellness 8
Physical well-being is dependent upon knowledge about food and nutrition and discourages the use of tobacco and drugs. Physical activity and sound choices with regard to consumption lead to a high level of wellness. Students will spend time each week building endurance, flexibility, and physical strength, in addition to learning about the awareness of safety precautions. They will also gain an understanding of the relationship between nutrition and how the human body performs.
Additionally, students will learn alternatives to relieve stress when their physical, emotional, intellectual, and/or social needs are not met. They will be encouraged to set goals to take the appropriate steps for making improvements in their physical, emotional, intellectual, and/or social well-being. Students will learn strategies that enable them to choose the best alternative for avoiding health risks and dangerous situations.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grade 8
Math 7
Math 7 builds upon the knowledge and skills presented in Grade 6 Mathematics. In this course, students will explore the following concepts in greater depth:
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 7
7th Grade Pre-Algebra
This course differs from the non-accelerated 7th Grade course in that it contains content from 8th grade. While coherence is retained, in that it logically builds from the 6th Grade, the additional content when compared to the nonaccelerated course demands a faster pace for instruction and learning. Content is organized into four critical areas, or units. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations. The four units include: Rational Numbers and Exponents; Proportionality and Linear Relationships; Introduction to Sampling Inference; Creating, Comparing, and Analyzing Geometric Figures.
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 7
Pre-requisite: Teacher recommendation based on the Grade 6 mathematics performance.
8th Grade Pre-Algebra
The fundamental purpose of 8th Grade Pre-Algebra is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned through the end of seventh grade. Content in this course is grouped into six critical areas, or units. The units of study deepen and extend understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend. 8th Grade Pre-Algebra includes an exploration of the role of rigid motions in congruence and similarity. The Pythagorean theorem is introduced, and students examine volume relationships of cones, cylinders, and spheres. 8th Grade Pre-Algebra uses properties and theorems involving congruent figures to deepen and extend understanding of geometric knowledge from prior grades. The final unit in the course ties together the algebraic and geometric ideas studied. The Mathematical Practice Standards apply throughout each course and, together with the content standards, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 8
Algebra I Concepts
Algebra I is a study of relations and properties of quantity (numbers) by means of letters and/or symbols. Major topics include negative numbers, equations, graphs, relations, and functions. Algebra I is the base for higher mathematics. May use computer assisted instruction.
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 8
Pre-requisite: Pre-Algebra
Honors Algebra I
Equations/inequalities, real numbers, polynomials, linear functions, and graphing, absolute value, proportional reasoning, number patterns, exponential functions, factoring, and quadratic equations are studied by showing their relationships to real-life situations. Concepts are presented at a faster pace and with more depth than Algebra I. Problem solving, critical thinking skills, and reasoning are emphasized. Students will also use various technologies to research and apply concepts.
Summer readings and preparation are required to be completed by the first day of school for students who select Honors Algebra I. Failure to complete the required summer assignments may significantly impact the student’s first nine-week grade. Students may also be required to be schedule into Algebra I in the place of Honors Algebra I, if the Summer Preparation is not completed by the first day of school.
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 8
Pre-requisite: Successful completion of Pre-Algebra, as well as a strong teacher recommendation.
Academic Support (Tutorial)
Students who have scored, or are at risk of scoring, below Proficient on either the Math PSSA, Reading PSSA, or both will be scheduled into Academic Support for additional mathematics or English/Language Arts (ELA) instruction. The amount of time a student is scheduled into Academic Support depends on the type(s) of remediation that is needed for student success. PSSA Coach books, Common Core Coach books, Study Island, Academy of Reading, and Academy of Math are some of the materials which may be used to address the student’s deficiencies in his/her knowledge of particular anchors and standards.
Grading: Pass/Fail
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grades 7 and 8
Concert Band
The Connellsville Junior High School Concert Band is a performance-based, instrumental music course geared for novice to moderate aptitude level instrumentalists in the music program. The course will cover classical to contemporary concert band literature with a difficulty level of 2 to 3 on a scale of 1 to 6. In addition to the concert band repertoire, the students will have experience performing in a marching band setting and will have the opportunity for small ensemble study. Also included with the ensemble portion of the course are group lessons, which will be based on a class pull-out rotation schedule.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester - Every other day, all year
Grades 7 and 8
Symphonic Band*
The Connellsville Junior High School Symphonic Band is a performance-based instrumental music course geared for higher aptitude level instrumentalists in the music program. The course will cover classical to contemporary concert band literature with a difficulty level of 3 to 4 on a scale of 1 to 6. In addition to the concert band repertoire, the students will have experience performing in a marching band setting and will have small ensemble study. Also included with the ensemble portion of the course are group lessons, which will be based on a class pull-out rotation schedule.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grades 7 and 8
*By audition only
Chorus 7 and Chorus 8*
Chorus 7 and Chorus 8 are vocal performance ensembles here at the Junior High. These ensembles rehearse every other day all school year. Vocal skills are refined throughout the year, including an introduction to basic musicianship. Objectives addressed include note reading and part singing. Students will demonstrate understanding of musical terms, using proper breath support, singing with accurate diction and proper vowel placement. The course requirement includes singing in various school and community events.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grades 7 and 8
*By audition only
Music 8
Music 8 is a required nine week (rotation) general music course. The new curriculum at the Junior High includes world drumming and a history of rock.
World drumming incorporates basic musicianship skills, while the history of rock is a review of the influences and artists of American rock history. The course culminates with a final project requirement specified by the Music 8 teacher.
Grading: District Grade Scale
9 week course
Grade 8
The Pennsylvania Core Standards are calling for an increasingly integrated approach to English and Language Arts (ELA). As students enter the workforce, technical training, or college, they will need to read and comprehend non-fictional technical manuals, complex textbooks, and be able to argue their suggestions for solving problems or promoting projects with relevant reasons and sound logic. To efficiently achieve these daunting tasks, effective curriculum and instruction will need to build on the content and skills throughout the curriculum. Teachers in the fields of Science, Technology, Social Studies, and History will use the skills of comprehension and writing taught in the ELA Curriculum, while ELA teachers will use the complex text available in the science and social studies fields.
The 7th and 8th Grade Reading Curricula in Connellsville are addressing the need for an increasingly integrated approach not only between reading and English, but also within the history and social studies curricula. Reading skills such as as analyzing texts for main idea and relevant details, and building vocabulary strategies occur in the Reading classroom.
In seventh grade Reading, students will have skills units, novels (Lightening Thief, by Percy Jackson), Reflections on Civil War, These Shoes of Mine, Tangerine, Hatchet, or The Cay, Old Yeller, or Touching Spirit Bear.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 7
Titles included in the eighth grade reading curriculum are: Broken, Pigman, Raymond's Run, Tell Tale Heart, Monkey's Paw, O Captain My Captain, Harriet Tubman, or Face on the Milk Carton, Thank You Ma'am, Diary of Joseph Plumb Martin.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 8
Academic Support (Tutorial)
Students who have scored, or are at risk of scoring, below Proficient on either the Math PSSA, Reading PSSA, or both will be scheduled into Academic Support for additional mathematics or English/Language Arts (ELA) instruction. The amount of time a student is scheduled into Academic Support depends on the type(s) of remediation that is needed for student success. PSSA Coach books, Common Core Coach books, Study Island, Academy of Reading, and Academy of Math are some of the materials which may be used to address the student’s deficiencies in his/her knowledge of particular anchors and standards.
Grading: Pass/Fail
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grades 7 and 8
Our students in Grades 4 – 8 use Science Matters kits, in addition to the grade level standards-based curriculum, for Science instruction. Science Matters, launched in 1996 at the IU1 STEM Center, was designed to change the way science is taught and learned. The program provides nationally endorsed curriculum modules, teacher training, classroom follow-up, and kit refurbishment to support K–8 inquiry-based science.
Grade 7 Science
Students in Grade 7 Science will use the following Science Matters Kits: Studying the Development and Reproduction of Organisms; Populations and Ecosystems. Other concepts which will be explored in Grade 7 Science include: Energy; Mutations.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 7
Grade 8 Science
Students in Grade 8 Science will use the following Science Matters Kits: Force and Motion; Chemical Interactions. Other concepts which will be explored in Grade 8 science include: Space; Thermal Energy; Plate Tectonics.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 8
PA/Local History
Pennsylvania is known as the Keystone State and is one of the original thirteen colonies.Throughout the course PA/Local History, students will explore the historical system of Pennsylvania and Southwestern Pennsylvania. This abridged, introductory course on the history of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania will encourage students to understand the origins, development, and sustaining of the state of Pennsylvania, as well as the rich historical heritage of Southwestern Pennsylvania. The PA/Local History course will build the foundational experience that will aid in the student's social studies courses throughout his/her academic career.
Grading: District Grade Scale
9 Week Course
Grade 7
World Systems
History takes a new approach in the7th Grade World Systems course. This is a course that will entail the study of Early Civilizations and Early Man through the introduction of Exploration. This objective will be achieved through the Political, Geographical, Historical, and Economic lenses. From Mesopotamia to ocean travel, the 7th Grade World Systems course will encourage students to explore all facets of historical study through research of important individuals, civilizations, and cultures as well as how their geographic, political, and economic systems played a role in their existence, development,and sometimes, their decline. World Systems is designed to highlight the various systems involved in historical study and how various elements can change the course of history.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 7
U.S./PA History
The United States is a relatively young country in regard to world history; Pennsylvania goes hand in hand with the development of the United States. U.S./PA History is a course developed to explore the creation, development, and changes of the United States to the build-up of World War I. This course will focus on the roles Pennsylvania played in early United States History as well as look at theUnited States through the eyes of the people experiencing its creation and growth. Primary sources from Washington, Jefferson, Franklin, and Adams to Lincoln, Davis, Grant, and Lee to McKinley, Sigsbee and Pulitzer will give students a fresh look at historical study and motivate students to experience history in a new way.
The course is developed to emphasize Pennsylvania’s role in the development, expansion, and growth of the UnitedStates through a politically, geographically, and militarily focused context. Students will be engaging in research that will promote a continuation and consistency with 7th Grade World Systems while preparing students to continue the story of the United States in their Modern U.S. History course.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full Year: Everyday
Grade 8
Exploring Technology 7
Exploring Technology is a mandatory rotation course that offers the student an opportunity to explore technology through a variety of hands on, experience based activities. Students will be exposed to a variety of technology systems in a modular setting. There are 10 areas of instruction. Aerodynamics, Alternative energy, Graphics and Animation, Computer Aided Design, Electronic Communication, Computer Aided Publishing, Construction Technology, Robotics and Automation, measuring, and Weather monitoring.
Grading: District Grade Scale
9 week course
Grade 7
Robotics 7
In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of what robots are and how they operate. Students will learn basic principles of programming, and robotics operation. Students will use the Engineering Design process to begin learning how to design robotic systems with a purpose or function in mind. They will utilize the NXT Robots they gained an understanding of and build complex robot codes using software programming. Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester - Every other day, all year
Grade 7
Production Systems 8
Students will be involved in design and layout of various products. Different types of materials will be used in processing these products. Many skills and techniques will be developed in the use and operation of various types of tools and equipment. Production systems will give students an opportunity to explore the technological design model and how it applies to manufacturing and production. This course will provide students with the opportunity to learn the basic operation of hand tools and power tools to complete projects using multiple material processes.
Grading: District Grade Scale
9 week course
Grade 8
Robotics 8
In this course, students will take their knowledge of robotics to a deeper level. They will advance their programming and automation skills. Students will use computers and specialized software to program machines to perform specific functions. They will program CNC machines while defining their operations to create basic parts. They will also learn basic automation skills for simple robotic functions.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Semester – Every other day, all year
Grade 8
Spanish I
Some students in Grade 8 will be introduced to the Spanish language and Spanish-speaking cultures. It is a standards-based program which includes interesting topics, authentic culture, and real-life communication to motivate students to master Spanish. There is a balanced approach to instruction, whereby students learn through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will gain foundational knowledge of Spanish in this course, and become aware of how Spanish is used everyday in real world applications.
Grading: District Grade Scale
Full year: Everyday
Grade 8