Course Registration for 2025-2026

This course will focus on critical literacy skills involving reading, writing, speaking and listening. Literature units at the 7th grade level include short story, novel, drama, non-fiction, and poetry. Students will use various literary elements and questioning strategies to develop critical-thinking skills while analyzing literature. Students will analyze one novel together as a class and at least one novel as part of a differentiated literature circle. Collaboration and discussion as a class and in small groups are essential to learning. Independent reading is also a component of the class. Students’ writing skills will be developed and reinforced through essay writing, personal narrative, argumentative writing, poetry, journaling, and literary response. This course is also the foundation for promoting Advanced Placement (AP) access to more students. It will prepare students for success when they take AP and other challenging courses in high school.

This course will cover this nation's history to the current era, and will explore multiple perspectives about the key events and themes that have shaped our society. It will also include important economics and geography content. Students will apply and use their knowledge in a variety of ways and will work more independently; they will also problem solve, collaborate, communicate, and understand course content at higher levels. This course focuses on promoting strategies that will make students more organized, better note-takers, and effective critical thinkers, which will make them better prepared for access to AP courses and college in general.

This course is the foundation for promoting access to advanced coursework to more students and will prepare students for success in high school and beyond. It focuses student learning on Minnesota’s 7th grade math standards and will also offer advanced coursework that will provide more depth, complexity, and exposure to 8th grade standards for students who want an extra challenge. Within this course, there is an emphasis on mastering concepts such as rational number operations, proportional relationships, functions, and equations with variables. The math concepts and skills are learned through real-life experiences and applications. After completion of this course students will be ready for Algebra 8 with the opportunity, based on teacher recommendation, to register for Intermediate Algebra 8.

This is an intensely accelerated course at the 9th grade level. This course focuses on a review of Minnesota’s 8th grade and the high school math algebra standards. Significant emphasis is placed on developing student understanding of linear functions, as well as moving into understanding systems of equations and quadratic equations. Students who typically earned a 4 (Exceeds) on their elementary report card in math and/or scored in the Exceeds grade level standard achievement level on their MCA (665 and above) in math have found this course to be a good match for their skills. Students will receive two high school credits for completing this course with a C- or better. These credits will not count in their GPA. Students completing the course with a D+ or below will automatically be registered to retake the class.

This course sets the foundation for success in high school biology, including advanced coursework. This standards-based course investigates the processes and concepts of the life sciences. Major units of study include: From Molecules to Organisms (structures and processes), Ecosystems (interactions, energy, and dynamics), Heredity (inheritance and variations of traits), and Biological Evolution (unity and diversity). Science skills are taught through scientific investigation and inquiry in the classroom. Informational text, classroom activities, and lab experiences are used to teach students. The science skills taught include:

• Asking questions and defining problems
• Developing and using models
• Planning and carrying our investigations
• Analyzing and interpreting data
• Using mathematics and computational thinking
• Constructing explanations and designing solutions
• Engaging in argument from evidence
• Obtaining, evaluating, and communicating information

All students are given the opportunity to complete advanced coursework with high rigor.

In this class, students will produce a variety of artwork done in different mediums. Students will be introduced to basic drawing techniques, acrylic painting, hand-built pottery, and printmaking. In addition to these areas, students may have additional art experiences with sculptural forms, basic bookmaking, pastels, collage and other mediums. All projects will incorporate use and knowledge of the elements and principles of art. This course can be taken for a full year/alternating day or one trimester.

WORLD OF MUSIC: This is a non-performing, project-based music class that explores past and current musical styles and their importance in history. It includes a variety of presentations, research, written work, world drumming, and Garage Band (a music writing program). This is a trimester course.

BAND: Students must have experience in 6th grade playing woodwind, brass, or a percussion instrument. A limited number of instruments are available for rent from the school.

ORCHESTRA: Students must have experience in 6th grade playing a string instrument. A limited number of instruments are available for rent from RAMS.

CHORUS: Students must enjoy singing and be able to match pitch in their voice range. Students who are enrolled in one of these music classes may participate in extracurricular music groups such as Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band, or Morning Choir.

Band, Orchestra, and Chorus are performance classes in which students play or sing every day, learn to read music, and develop their skills on their instrument or with their voice. Small-group, pull-out lessons are part of the curriculum. Two evening concerts at RAMS are a required part of performing in these ensembles. Only students who are enrolled in one of these classes may participate in extracurricular groups such as Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band, or Morning Choir.

Have you always wanted to play a band instrument but didn’t know how to start? Now you can! This class is for students with no previous or limited experience playing a band instrument. Instruments to choose from may include flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, horn, trombone, baritone, or tuba. Students are expected to practice their instrument outside of the school day. Students will try out and choose an instrument during the first week of class. Students are encouraged to provide their own instrument. A limited number of instruments are available for rent from the school.

The Health 7 curriculum is a trimester class that follows the National Health Education Standards. These standards have been integrated into seven thematic content areas designed to provide students with a wide variety of topics focused primarily on the development of life skills along with developmental assets and protective factors. The content areas include, but are not limited to, health/wellness/decision making, mental health, substance abuse and prevention (tobacco, alcohol, hard drugs,) human sexuality, and CPR/first aid.

This program provides the opportunity for development of physical skills and a positive attitude toward physical fitness. Activities are a balance of team, individual and dual sports. Units include soccer, tennis, volleyball, basketball, and badminton (weight training, Xbox Kinect, elliptical, and cardio machines). This course can be taken for a full-year/alternating day or one trimester.

Students will be in a physical education class every day when they register for Personal Exercise Plan (PEP). Students will have the opportunity to work out in the fitness center (resistance training, active technology, ellipticals, and exercise bikes) on a more frequent basis as well as choose individual or team activities they would like to participate in. The objective of PEP is to increase strength and cardiovascular fitness through daily activity. Active and self-motivated students looking for additional physical education opportunities will be successful in PEP.

In FACS 7, we will be working on learning more about you. We will learn about how your personal development relates to your future through the exploration of your personality, skills, talents, values, and learning styles. 

We will have the opportunity to explore more about your interests and how it will relate to your career and education choices through the MCIS (Minnesota Career Information System) program. This course will also provide students with hands-on projects through sewing and how to understand and care for young children.

Curriculum is based on a STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, Math) approach incorporating the mix of disciplines through several challenging and innovative units. Areas covered in this exciting, fast-paced course may include: measurement, isometric drawing, woodworking, and metals. Students will develop practical, hands-on skills while establishing a life-long “safety first” awareness. There may be a small course fee for materials needed for projects that will become the property of the student.

This is a project-based class where students learn through hands-on experiences. Projects are based on STEAM (science, technology, engineering, art, math) with an emphasis on the Engineering Design Process where students define a problem, plan a solution, make a model, test the model, and then reflect and redesign. Students will use various pieces of equipment and technology when designing and making projects. There may be a small course fee for material needed for projects that will become the property of the student.

World Cultures has two goals: to teach students to respectfully respond to differences and expose students to exploratory languages and cultures. We will explore answers to the questions: What is culture? How are languages related and change? How are language and culture connected? and What causes a language to die out? We will explore different topics that relate to languages and culture and give students an opportunity to explore areas of interest with a final project that synthesizes all the information from class.

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a rigorous academic elective course that prepares students for college readiness and success, and is scheduled during the regular school day as a year-long course. Each week, students receive instruction that uses a rigorous college-prep curriculum, tutor-facilitated study groups, motivational activities, and enhancing academic skills. Students participate in activities that incorporate strategies focused on writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading to build upon their academic growth. Students engage in activities centered around exploring college and career opportunities utilizing intrapersonal and interpersonal skills as well as formal and informal speech. The process to be in the AVID 7 elective is completed at elementary sites in the second half of 6th grade. Students will complete an AVID application, interview, and will be selected. If you are new or missed the initial application process and want to be in the AVID 7 elective, contact scott.lauinger@isd623.org to begin your process.

This course focuses on increasing rigorous opportunities for 8th grade students as they prepare for high school. We will read a variety of texts including short stories, articles, informational texts, novels, and even poetry! During reading units, students will use various literary terms to develop critical-thinking skills while analyzing texts. Writing skills will be developed and reinforced through developing a thesis, persuasive writing, poetry, personal reflection, and vocabulary development. Many of our activities and units follow a social justice theme to follow the power standards in English 8. The curriculum intentionally reflects multiple perspectives, making it possible for students to see themselves and feel affirmed. Each term, students are challenged to write in a way that effectively communicates and develops their unique voice. Students will be offered advanced options (AO) and embedded honors (EH) work in English 8 to add more depth and complexity to the curriculum. Embedded honors work combines literature and writing to help springboard students into the Accelerated English 9 class.

Social Studies 8 is a Global Studies course. Students will study geography, history, economics, citizenship, and ethnic studies. They also analyze modern world trends such as demographic changes, trade patterns, and globalization. Students will strengthen their skills in critical reading, higher-level thinking, and writing.  This course prepares students for advanced courses in high school, including access to AP programs.

Physical Science 8 is a combined course of study with physics and chemistry topics taught through a series of interconnected units.

Science is not a subject, but rather a method of studying the world. Science is defined as an organized way to gain knowledge about the natural world by observing and investigating. Therefore, science is both a collection of knowledge and the process of discovering it. Since science is a method, this course will focus on developing the eight science practices: 

1. Asking Questions and Defining Problems
2. Developing and Using Models
3. Planning and Carrying out Investigations
4. Analyzing and Interpreting Data
5. Using Mathematics and Computational Thinking
6. Constructing Explanations and Solutions
7. Engaging in Argument from Evidence
8. Obtaining, Evaluating, and Communicating Evidence

The class will collaboratively learn these practices while working to explain phenomena we see on a near-daily basis.

• RAMS teachers will work with students and families to recommend a math course according to the district prerequisite course. (Students who do not receive a grade of C- or higher in an accelerated course may not be placed in the next level.)

• Math 7 students who are self-starters and have normally earned an A or B are recommended to take Intermediate Algebra 8. This class is worth high school credit.
• Math 7 students who do not feel comfortable taking a high school level course are recommended to take Algebra 8.

Students will receive two high school credits for completing Intermediate Algebra 8 and Geometry 8 with a C- or better. These credits will not count in their GPA. Students completing the course with a D+ or below will automatically be registered to retake the class.

8th grade health is a trimester class that follows the National Health Education Standards. These standards have been integrated into six thematic content areas designed to provide students with a wide variety of topics. Building off topics discussed in 7th grade, Health 8 provides students the opportunity to delve deeper into important topics including mental health, human sexuality (relationships, contraception, abstinence, LGBTQ+ vocabulary) and substance abuse. Students will also experience all new units including, but not limited to being a lifelong learner, safety/violence prevention, and nutrition.

The curriculum emphasizes an advancement of the skills introduced in 7th grade. The class promotes a healthy and physically fit body. Units offered include soccer, tennis, volleyball, basketball, badminton, fitness center (weight training, Xbox Kinect, elliptical, bikes), archery, softball, and flag football.

Are you ready to learn about getting your first part-time job? Are you becoming more independent? Are you ready to use your creativity by exploring interior design and creating more advanced sewing projects? FACS 8 is an every other day, year-long elective class where you can explore these topics throughout the year. You will learn to design your dream home, create advanced sewing projects, prepare for your first job, manage money, and explore parenting and family life.

This class is a more in-depth look at the technologies introduced in Design and Create 7. Students interested in combining the STEAM approach with problem solving and design will love this course. Curriculum provides first-hand experience using research and design (R&D) processes and techniques used in architecture, engineering, industry, and other fields. Students will strengthen individual skills and develop teamwork competence. Many of the activities will be design challenges that can be done individually or in a group setting. There may be a small course fee for material needed for projects that will become the property of the student.

Take your artistic skills to the next level. In this course, you decide the art styles and mediums you want to explore. With emphasis on choice and interest, you will study the work of local and culturally diverse artists and develop your own style. Students will be presented with a variety of media and techniques to explore and experiment with, such as drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture (3D work), and mixed media. You will also build an artist portfolio and showcase your art by the end of the year.

These classes are performance classes and will require attendance at 2-3 concerts during the year. Band 8 and Orchestra 8 are open to students that were a member of band and orchestra in 7th grade, or have director approval. Small group pull-out lessons are part of the curriculum for band and orchestra. Chorus students must enjoy singing and demonstrate the ability to match pitch. Students in choir continue work on reading music and sing three-part music. Students who are enrolled in one of these music classes may participate in extracurricular music groups such as Chamber Orchestra, Jazz Band, or Morning Choir.

Students will be in a physical education class every day when they register for personal exercise plan (PEP). Students will have the opportunity to work out in the fitness center (resistance training, active technology, ellipticals, and exercise bikes) on a more frequent basis as well as choose individual or team activities they would like to participate in for a daily workout. The objective of PEP is to increase strength and cardiovascular fitness through daily activity. Active and self-motivated students looking for additional physical education opportunities will be successful in PEP. Students wanting to register should have been successful participating in 7th grade PE.

This course will focus on preparing and cooking meals. As we learn to cook, we will focus on safety and sanitation, nutrition, and making healthy food choices. Students will learn basic cooking skills to help prepare nutritious meals at school and at home. Students will also learn how to read food labels, food advertising, and learn how to comparison shop. Technical reading, organization, measuring, and direction following are sets of skills reinforced in this course.

Combine your interest of design and construction with your love of art. This class will be an in-depth exploration of different mediums and techniques in 2D and 3D art. This includes working on the potter’s wheel and using acrylic on canvas. Students will develop creative thinking and problem solving skills in this course. You will have the ability to sign up for this class twice. If you take this class a second time, you will have options for more advanced mediums and techniques that may include weaving and jewelry.

If you enjoy making and eating a variety of different foods then this is the class for you! This course focuses on selecting, preparing, and serving foods according to nutritional guidelines and will have recipes from all the major food groups. This course will allow you the opportunity to look at foods through a cultural lens through a mini cultural foods unit. The end unit of the course will have the students creating, preparing, marketing, and selling their own snack created through the snack shop unit.

This is a project-based class where students will learn through hands-on projects. Students will learn about proper tool usage and machine safety as well as advanced woodworking. Students will also learn how to read blueprints. There are various projects the students will be working on, including a sheet metal toolbox and a shaker-style clock. There will be a small course fee for materials needed for projects that will become the property of the student.

This course is for anyone who wants to learn how to make almost anything. Students will learn how to use several computer programs. These computer programs will be used to design projects. Areas of focus may include 3D printing, laser engraving/cutting, vinyl cutting, and dye sublimation. Collaboration, creativity and problem-solving skills will be gained through the projects in the class. There is a $5 lab fee for this class to cover the cost of projects that the students will be taking home.

This course focuses on learning various computer coding languages and computer science basics essential for creating software and using modern technology at an advanced level. This course gives a broader but more basic overview of four themes (programming, security, analytics, and system administration) and a lot of basic skills in each.

Introduction to Theater is a trimester elective class for anyone interested in learning more about what goes on in the theater world. Students who take this class will learn the basics of various aspects of theater. We will spend our time working on a variety of project-based learning experiences that will cover the basics of acting, script reading and analysis, script writing, set building, prop making, lighting, sound, dance, theater from other cultures, Shakespeare, etc. Join us for an exciting class in the RAMS theater as we explore the ins and outs of theater. The class will have a final presentation that combines all of the aspects so there is room for anyone, be it beginner or experienced theater participant.

Students will learn to speak, read, write, and understand French at an introductory level. The focus is on communicating in everyday situations about topics such as school, shopping, food, family, and hobbies. Students will also begin exploring the geography and cultures of the French-speaking world. Students will receive two high school credits for completing this course with a C- or better. These credits will not count in their GPA. Students completing the course with a D+ or below will have to retake the class to advance to the next level.

Students will learn to speak, read, write, and understand the Spanish language with an emphasis on everyday conversations about family, school, recreational activities, food, and more. We will study many different aspects of Latin American and Spanish culture, such as daily life, geography, cultural values, and celebrations. Students will receive two high school credits for completing this course with a C- or better. These credits will not count in their GPA. Students completing the course with a D+ or below will have to retake the class to advance to the next level.

Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an academic elective course that prepares students for college readiness and success, and it is scheduled during the regular school day as a year-long course.

The 8th grade AVID elective course is the year of preparation for high school. Students will regularly exhibit and utilize the skills and strategies learned in the 7th grade AVID course. They will refine previous goals, focusing on their transition to high school as part of a college-preparatory path. Their writing will focus on completing all steps of the writing process and varying style, word choice, vocabulary, structure, and voice. Major writing assignments include persuasive, expository, descriptive, and timed writing. Students will transition from active learners to leaders. Other areas of focus include increasing the use of technology and building upon test-preparation and test-taking knowledge. Students will broaden their experience with analyzing text and utilizing appropriate reading strategies in various settings. They will become more involved in presentations, leadership opportunities, and field trips, particularly as they relate to preparation and prior knowledge.

If students were in AVID 7 they will automatically continue to AVID 8 if they meet expectations of the elective. If you are a new or current student interested in being in the AVID 8 elective, please contact please contact Scott Lauinger, RAMS AVID coordinator, at scott.lauinger@isd623.org for an application or to ask questions.