2022-2023 6th Grade Electives 

Rotating Eight-Week Courses

What follows are the course descriptions for the 6th grade elective wheel for the 2021-2022 academic school year. Each elective is eight weeks long and students will move through the courses on a rotating basis, completing two courses per semester. Students will automatically be registered by their Principal.

Discovering Art

In this course students will explore art with several mediums including paint, pastel, embroidery thread, and more!  Students will learn and use the fundamentals of art while creating projects. They will also be introduced to elements of art and principles of design. No previous art experience is required, as this course is designed for those new to art or those developing in their artistry.

Makerspace

A Makerspace is a space to do just that--make things! This course will allow students to imagine, design, create, build, and construct. With a closet full of enticing art and craft supplies, design challenges, and a bin full of Legos, each week students will embark on a new adventure of problem-solving, imagining and creating together. This will be a course that emphasizes the design process, so student participation will include critical thinking, discussing and sharing of ideas, and hands-on productivity.

Drama/Musical Theater

This very interactive course focuses on the fundamentals of acting, with an emphasis on the development of imagination, self-awareness, sense memory, improvisation, the ability to execute basic stage tasks, characterization and character development. The course also explores vocal technique that focuses on warming up, harmonizing, and singing as a group and individually. Students may have the opportunity to perform in a live performance. 

Power Skills

This course will help students develop critical life skills in order to reach their highest potential in and outside of the classroom. Students will learn how to effectively communicate, organize, and plan. A focus on social and emotional skills will help students navigate their personal relationships and resolve conflict. Additionally, this course will introduce students to the Learner Profile Attributes and Approaches to Learning (ATLs) that will be emphasized in each of their classes here at MVC.

Semester-Long Courses

What follows are the semester-long courses students will participate in as a part of their schedule. Students who choose this alternative elective will be automatically registered for the Exploratory Wheel for the second semester.

Cowboy Class 

Calling all MS boys - come learn the ways of the West! We'll cover basic blacksmithing, roping, western horse riding, and good ol' fashioned horsemanship in a low pressure, fun environment! This is a great opportunity for boys to experience horsemanship. This boys-only class will be taught by an authentic cowboy, and beginners are welcome! $700 for the semester.

*Note: This is not the same as Horsemanship taken in lieu of Physical Health Education. Boys and girls interested in that option should reach out with that request to melissamorales@mvcs.org.


Year-Long Courses

What follows are the music courses that 6th grade students will participate in as part of their schedule. Students will choose which course to attend for the duration of the year. If unsure, our Fine Arts team will be happy to meet with parents and/or students to determine the best fit. To make your selections or request a meeting, please complete the survey below.

MS Band

This is a course for students who are new to playing a band instrument. Students will learn basic performance technique, how to read and perform music, and will make a lot of new friends! In addition to exciting in-class rehearsals and instrumental exercises, students may have the opportunity to perform at concerts and community events. Students will not only be joining the band but will be part of the Fine Arts community, and, together, will accomplish amazing things! Instrument choices include: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, and mallet percussion.

Requirements: MVC has a limited number of instruments available for students. If supplies run out, students may be asked to rent an instrument from a local music store.

Voice

An introduction to the care and cultivation of the sining voice, aesthetic awareness, musical language and history, vocal solo repertoire, artistic expression, vocal techniques, ensemble performance, and performance practice. No previous experience required.