7th Grade                         8th Grade                         9th Grade                         Electives

 

 

 

 

Kirkland Junior High School Course Requirements

 

All students are required to complete the requirements shown on the following chart:

 

                                                7th                    8th                    9th                    Number of

Subject                                    Grade              Grade              Grade              Years  

 

Language Arts                             1                      1                      1                      3

Social Studies                              1                      1                      1                      3

Math                                           1                      1                      1                      3

Science                                        1                      1                      1                      3

Physical Education                       .5                     .5                     .5                     1.5

Elective                                        .5                     .5                     .5                     1.5

Elective                                        .5                     .5                     .5                     1.5

Elective                                        .5                     .5                     .5                     1.5

 

 

 

9TH GRADE REQUIRED COURSES

2008-2009

 

FRESHMEN ENGLISH    GRADE NINE: FULL YEAR (TWO SEMESTERS)

This class provides ample instruction and practice in a broad rage of reading and writing skills. Students study a variety of literary genres, including works representing the Pacific Northwest and selected Pacific Rim nations. A minimum of three major books studies will be completed, choosing from titles such as The Odyssey, Animal Farm, and “Romeo and Juliet”. Writing assignments include a business letter as well as expository, literary analysis and persuasive essays. These writings are designed to strengthen students’ use of the five-paragraph format and will be evaluated using district rubrics. Through these assignments and related skill-building drills, including WASL techniques and practice, students will improve their mastery of conventions, sentence structure, and vocabulary. Students will have several opportunities for individual or small group research and for self-reflection. Exams will include a variety of selected response, short response, and essay questions. Honors credit may be earned by arrangement with the teacher.

 

WORLD STUDIES I / WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY   GRADE NINE: FULL YEAR (TWO SEMESTERS)

 

Ninth grade students will examine the geography, history, culture, and economics of Washington State and the Pacific Rim nations of East Asia and the Americas. Special attention is given to the Pacific Northwest and its unique role in world trade and international relations. World trade and economics are explored within each sub-region, and Internet technology is utilized to discover the rapidly-growing changes of the world’s cultures. The course also includes at least one major research project and a major book study related to the course content in which the district’s writing process and “six plus one traits” criteria are applied; further, emphasis is placed on the concept of global citizenship and the increasing interdependence between nations in this modern world. Honors credit may be earned by arrangement with the teacher. (Note: Washington State history will not be taught in ninth grade after 2008-09. Thereafter, it will be taught exclusively in eighth grade.)

 

HONORS FRESHMAN ENGLISH/WORLD STUDIES I / WASHINGTON STATE HISTORY    GRADE NINE: FULL YEAR (TWO SEMESTERS)

 

Ninth grade students investigate the geography, history, culture, and economics of Washington State and the Pacific Rim nations of East Asia and the Americas. Special attention is given to the Pacific Northwest and its unique role in world trade and international relations. Emphasis is placed on the concept of global citizenship and the increasing interdependence between nations in the 21st century. The integrated block strives to support the social studies curriculum through the study of a wide range of literary genres representing the Pacific Northwest, India, and a variety of Pacific Rim countries. A minimum of four major book studies will be completed, choosing from titles such as Animal Farm, Skid Road, and “Romeo and Juliet”. At least four major, multi-paragraph writings will be completed, including a literary analysis essay, a cause/effect essay, a comparison/contrast essay, and a research paper. A comprehensive exam will be given at the end of each semester. Students will have several opportunities for individual or small group research and for self-reflection. (Note: Washington State history will not be taught in ninth grade after 2008-09. Thereafter, it will be taught exclusively in eighth grade.)

 

 

MATHEMATICS

 

The Kirkland Junior High math curriculum is comprised of the following courses: Connected Math 7, Safety Net 7, 8 and 9, Connected Math 8, Discovering Algebra, Discovering Geometry, and Discovering Advanced Algebra.  These courses are consistent with the Lake Washington School District adopted curriculum and align with LWSD Curriculum Frameworks document and the Washington State Essential Academic Learning Requirements.  Math is sequential and mastery of basic skills and concepts are essential to success in the next course.  Consequently, appropriate placement is important for success and will be determined by multiple measures including: previous math course, state assessment scores, and teacher recommendation.

 

NOTE: All Lake Washington Junior High mathematics courses are designed to teach and assess: 1) reading and writing of mathematical materials, procedures and explanations, 2) analyzing, displaying, reading, and interpreting data sets using graphs, charts, tables, and equations, 3) responding to short answer and extended response questions using WASL-like scoring guides, 4) and using calculators appropriate for each course.

 

DISCOVERING ALGEBRA   FULL YEAR (2 SEMESTERS)                                                  

Prerequisites: Discovering Algebra provides a practical blend of technology-related and paper-and-pencil problem solving tools. Explorations and investigations emphasize symbol sense, algebraic manipulations, and conceptual understandings. Students make sense of important algebraic concepts, learn essential algebraic skills, and discover how to use algebra.  This course allows students to experience algebra as an activity and a process that encourages the use of multiple representations—numerical, graphic, symbolic, and verbal.  Topics in this course include: Graphing, Linear Equations, Quadratic Equations, Functions, Exponents, Data Analysis, Proportional Reasoning, Probability, Systems of Equations and Inequalities.  This class requires proficiency, commitment, responsibility, and self-discipline.  Students should plan for up to thirty minutes of homework each day as well as scheduled time for special projects. Students will best be served if they have access to a TI-84 calculator at home.

 

DISCOVERING GEOMETRY   FULL YEAR (2 SEMESTERS)          

Prerequisite: Discovering Geometry provides an opportunity for students to explore geometric relationships with a wide variety of tools, including compasses, computers, and graphing calculators.  Students perform constructions, measure figures, observe patterns, discuss their findings, write their own definitions, and formulate and prove geometric conjectures.  Topics include properties of triangles, polygons, circles, transformations and tessellations, area and volume, the Pythagorean Theorem, congruence and similarity.  Students should expect up to forty minutes of homework per day to reinforce the skills and concepts taught in class. Students will best be served if they have access to a TI-84 calculator at home.

 

DISCOVERING ADVANCED ALGEBRA   FULL YEAR (2 SEMESTERS) 

Prerequisite: Discovering Advanced Algebra provides an opportunity for students to deepen their understanding of challenging topics in mathematics including recursion, transformations, matrices, series, probability and applications of statistics.  A major focus is on a variety of functions including exponential, power, logarithmic, trigonometric, rational, and quadratic and other polynomial functions.  The text provides a balanced mix of data-analysis and pure-algebra techniques in a hands-on investigative approach.  Students practice, reason, apply, and review as they progress through the curriculum. Algebraic techniques equip students with multiple problem-solving strategies and prepare them for higher-level courses that may be algebra intensive.. Students should expect up to forty minutes of homework per day to reinforce the skills taught in the classroom. Students will best be served if they have access to a TI-84 calculator at home.

 

SAFETY NET 9   FULL YEAR ( 2 SEMESTERS)

Students will be placed in this support class based on WASL test scores.  This course is designed to support students in their regularly scheduled Discovering Algebra class using materials that develop the concepts presented in algebra.  Students will need to have a scientific calculator.

 

 

SCIENCE

 

INTEGRATED SCIENCE III- 9th grade Conceptual Physical Science: Physics, Chemistry, Earth Science and Astronomy

GRADES 8, 9: FULL YEAR (2 SEMESTERS)

Prerequisite: 9th grade students: Standard path. 8th grade students: Accelerated path requires teacher recommendation, successful completion of 7th Grade Math with an “A”, and an “A” in 7th grade science.

Conceptual Physical Science is a year-long inquiry-based lab science class focused on exploring chemistry, physics, earth science, and astronomy. The emphasis for physics is on qualitative analysis to develop mathematical models helping students to understand concepts and differentiating among scientific ideas. Chemistry focuses on concepts and their interconnections such as using shell models to demonstrate electron configurations, while chemical bonding is treated in terms of overlapping of these shells. Earth science encompasses the sciences of geology and meteorology guiding students through our planet earth including its rocks, minerals, and the dynamics that make it a continually changing place. Emphasis is on the processes, with the theme that geological and atmospheric changes are ongoing. Applications of physics, chemistry, and geology to other massive bodies in the universe bring us to astronomy; the solar system, stars and galaxies. Students read, write and use technology to gather and process scientific information from a wide range of print and electronic sources. Students communicate their understanding through the following forms of writing: procedure, explanation, report, and lab reports. Specific writing instruction emphasizes proper methods for formulating hypotheses, collecting and analyzing data, and writing conclusions.

 

 

 

BIOLOGY   GRADE 9: FULL YEAR (2 SEMESTERS)

Prerequisite: Successful completion of 2 years of science. Students are required to have a “B” in math and received an “A” in 9th grade science. Students must be enrolled in Geometry or higher. This class meets one of the high school graduation science requirements.

Students will explore science concepts, ideas and current issues. The work will focus on the chemical, earth, life, physical, and environmental sciences. Course topics include: Earth, air, water, energy, atomic structure, populations, genetics, biodiversity, microorganisms, disease, plant and animal systems. Students will make extensive use of the computer lab and the Internet to prepare documents and projects throughout the course.

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

 

Physical Education is designed to promote a level of fitness and appreciation for our physical potential. Physical Education classes are designed on a co-ed basis with each activities taught in a three-week unit. At some time during the three years, each student will be exposed to as many sports and activities as we can possibly provide.

 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION   GRADES 8, 9: HALF YEAR (1 SEMESTER)

Physical Education is a one semester class in which effort, positive attitude, sportsmanship, and cooperation are taught through participation in team and individual sports. Specific Health topics will also be covered on an every other day basis during our weight training/body conditioning unit. Each student’s grade will reflect his/her ability to meet specific individual goals and corresponding point values.  This method of evaluation allows each student to have control of his/her grade regardless of physical ability. 8th and 9th grade P.E. includes the following: Flag Football, Soccer, Badminton Basketball, Frisbee, Pickle Ball, Archery, Volleyball, Table Tennis, Body Conditioning / Weight Training. Students are required to dress appropriately and participate in class each day. The required uniform includes a KJH Physical Education T-shirt (which can be purchased from the ASB window in the main office for $5.00 each), shorts, socks, and tennis or athletic shoes. Students are provided a combination lock and basket to secure clothing during the class period. All personal belongings should be clearly marked for identification. Special athletic equipment is provided by the school.

 

 

SPECIAL EDUCATION

In order to sign up for Special Education courses a student must currently be on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), and be identified with a learning disability or handicapping condition in any of the following areas- Language Arts, Reading, Written Language, and or Math.  These courses will follow the general education curriculum with modifications and adaptations.

 

SPECIAL EDUCATION LANGUAGE ARTS /READING

GradeS 7, 8, 9: FULL YEAR (2 SEMESTERS)

*FOR STUDENTS CURRENTLY ON AN IEP*

Prerequisite:  Must be on an IEP, and identified with a learning disability or handicapping condition in the area of reading and written language. The course will follow the general education curriculum with modifications and adaptations. The class uses various programs that aid in increasing vocabulary, comprehension, and reading fluency. In addition, this course takes students through the writing process using the six traits of writing. Students will focus on the organization and conventions of their writing.

 

SPECIAL EDUCATION WRITING / READING

Grade 7, 8, 9: Full Year (2 SEMESTERS)

*FOR STUDENTS CURRENTLY ON AN IEP*

Prerequisite:  Must be on an IEP, and identified with a learning disability or handicapping condition in the area of organization and written language. Using the step -up- to writing approach, the class will analyze writing tasks, break these into small steps, teach the steps one at a time, and provide practice to become proficient writers.

 

SPECIAL EDUCATION MATH

Grade 7, 8, 9: Full Year (2 SEMESTERS)

*FOR STUDENTS CURRENTLY ON AN IEP*

Prerequisite:  Must be on an IEP, and identified with a learning disability or handicapping condition in the area of Math. The curriculum focuses on fundamental calculation reasoning and includes problem solving concepts, skills and strategies.

 

 

 

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