Enrichment Courses

Our focus in Middle School Art class is learning to enjoy, appreciate and create art. We will look different styles, cultures and periods of art, as well as create our own masterpieces inspired by the elements of art, principles of design and famous artists. Jr. High students will have art class twice a week for a trimester. Students will be exposed to a variety of materials and techniques throughout the trimester.

The arts are an important factor in developing a well-rounded student. In art class, students will also learn to discuss their artwork and the work of others through class conversations and written reflections. Art is not only an essential part of Common Core learning but it also connects students to different cultures, develops aesthetic values, as well as uses critical thinking and problem solving skills.

Students will learn about self-discipline, self-confidence, and dedication through dance using the body as an expressive instrument.  The class will explore different dance styles, including jazz, ballet, hip-hop, social, modern, and various techniques through various exercises in movement.

Students will learn the essentials of Photoshop through various projects throughout the trimester. We will explore many concepts relative to the design process, such as color theory and the principles of design. Projects that students have completed in the past include creating t-shirt designs, Christmas cards, logos, and memes, but may vary trimester to trimester depending on each class’ interests.

This course will give students a basic understanding of the principles of nutrition in relationship to wellness, food choices, food preparatin and food storage.  They will learn about the concept of meal planning and a variety of culinary skills that they will be able to test in the kitchen towards the end of the trimester.

Robotics offers students a completely hands-on introduction to concepts of engineering and mechanics.  Students work in teams to design and program their own contraptions for various challenges.  The robots they build need to navigate mazes, adapt to their environment, lift and move objects, sing, dance, and even play hockey.

SOAR class is a study skills enrichment class offered to 6^th grade students in their first trimester. The SOAR curriculum is a strategic learning skills program for college and career readiness. The program teaches students how to set goals, organize, ask questions, and record their progress. Students will learn ways to establish priorities, manage their time, take notes to help them process their learning, and study for tests. The program focuses on necessary "soft skills" students need to acquire to be successful. These soft skills focus on reading comprehension, critical thinking, active learning, written expression, time management, organization, active listening, attention to detail, learning strategies, and becoming an independent learner. Soft skills are needed to be a lifelong learner, think critically, and make decisions independently. Soft skills are also known as study skills.

In Study Hall, students will be given extra time to finish assignments.  They will also have the opportunity to get a head start on assignments.  Students are required to come to class prepared to work on homework, study, and complete their assignments.

Students will be taught the fundamentals of typing.  Studens willlearn about proper finger placement and tricks to help them become a better typist.

Students will learn basic principals of yearbook production and develop skills that include: best practices for digital photography, organizing, digital content, and learning best practices for page design/layout.  They will learn about working together as an editorial team to create the St. Isidore School yearbook.