Watkins Glen Middle School

Electives

Graphic Novels “Comic Books” (Mr. Morse) - Read comic books “graphic novels” to expand vocabulary skills, reading comprehension, and to identify key elements of a story and at the same time have FUN! Reading, writing, class participation required for a grade.

History of Film (Mr. Morse) - Class will consist of viewing films, discussing them, and writing their reviews. The purpose of the course is to study our history and popular culture in a FUN and interesting way. All work will be done in class. Reading, writing, class participation required for a grade.

Computer Skills 8th grade (Ms. Wood) - This course is called Word Processing/Computer Applications in the high school and is required for graduation. Successful completion of this class will give student 1/2 high school credit. The class covers use of the Microsoft Office Suite as well as other computer skills that will be needed to be successful in school.

Botany (Mr. Murphy) - Botany began with early human efforts to identify edible, medicinal, and poisonous plants. From this ancient interest the scope of botony has increase to incluse the study of over 550,000 species of living organisms. Class activities will include identification of native species, collection from backyard to Catherine Trail. Students will sketch and research specimen collections.

Study of American History through Music (Mr. Connelly) - This course will focus on the American music scene from the early 1900’s to the present. We will explore the influences American culture has had on the styles of music for the particular time periods in question, and what new styles may have been created because of events that were taking place. Genres as well as individuals will be discussed. The course will focus on research and class presentations. Reading for understanding will be emphasized as well as presenting research findings in front of a classroom setting. Reading, writing, class participation required for a grade.

Microscopic World (Mr. Murphy) - Expand understanding of the natural world through the use of optical instruments that magnify images. Share with others your discoveries by using photography to publish microphotographs. Study effective use of dissecting and compound microscopes as well as digital cameras with related computer software used in microphotography. Learn proper usage and manipulation of microscope to capture microscopic images. Reading, writing, class participation required for a grade.

Band (Mrs. Harrigan) - Lessons on instrument and participation in school band program.

Chorus (Mr. Schiavone) - Vocal instruction and participation in school choral program.

Drawing and Painting (5/6 only) - ( Mrs. Hansen) - Focus on developing basic skills and knowledge in the art of drawing such as placement, size, planning, overlap, shadow, contour, horizon, and perspective. Students will learn about the color wheel and how to develop various color schemes that can be used when planning a painting. In addition to this, students will learn how to paint with tempera paint and watercolors and use the correct brush.

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History of Professional Sports (Mr. Connelly) - Emphasis on how sports have affected American and world culture. Will trace the history of sports from its’ beginning with Native American games/early Olympics, to modern sports. Reading, writing, class participation required for a grade.