Middle SchoolCourse Guide

2012 - 2013

Central Dauphin Middle School4600 Locust Lane

Harrisburg, PA 17109p 717-540-4606f 717-214-5055

www.cdschools.org

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Table of ContentsIntroduction 1Administration 1Guidance Counselors 1Course Selection Timeline 2Grading Scale 2Grade-Specific Information

Sixth Grade 3-4Seventh Grade 4-5Eighth Grade 6-7

Core Academic Course Progression 8Creative Arts Rotation

Art Education 9Computer/Keyboarding 9Music 9-10Technology Education 10

Music Electives (Band, Orchestra, and Choir) 10-11Library Media Program 11Gifted Program 11Special Education Programs

Autism 12Learning Support 12Intensive Learning Support 13Life Skills Support 13Multiple Disabilities 13

Time Schedules 14

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IntroductionThe Central Dauphin Middle School (CDMS) community is extremely proud of our school, our staff, and especially our students. The time spent in the middle school can be full of trials and tribulations as children develop physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually. These times can be very dynamic while proving to be very stressful for many children, parents, and teachers. CDMS faculty and staff are determined to meet these challenges because our students deserve the very best we have to offer. Children who are able to experience success in the middle school must first and foremost develop and hone their organization and preparation skills in order to manage the increased academic course load of the middle school curriculum.

This middle school course guide has been compiled to explain the curricular offerings for students in grades 6, 7, and 8. Please take the time to read it and discuss the offerings and program requirements with your child. The years spent in the middle school are an opportunity for your child to develop a sense of ownership and independence over many aspects of his/her life. Take this opportunity to share your ideas and experiences while giving your child an opportunity to make some of the decisions to instill ownership in the decisions. With your support and direction along with the assistance of our professional staff, we will work collaboratively to provide your child with a rewarding educational experience encouraging the love of lifelong learning.

AdministrationMr. Jeff Matzner Mr. Scott PavusekPrincipal Assistant Principal717-540-4606 x 74300 717-540-4606 x 74301jmatzner@cdschools.org spavusek@cdschools.org

School CounselorsMiss Sue MacDonald Mrs. Karyn McClintickStudents with Last Names A – K Students with Last Names L – Z717-540-4606 x 74333 717-540-4606 x 74332smacdonald@cdschools.org kmcclintick@cdschools.org

Secretarial StaffMrs. Debby Moore Mrs. Lori Pearson Mrs. Carmie SingerMain Office Secretary Main Office Secretary Guidance Secretary(717) 540-4606 x 74306 (717) 540-4606 x74307 (717) 540-4606 x 70331dmoore@cdschools.org lpearson@cdschools.org csinger@cdschools.org

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Course Selection TimelineJanuary – February

Guidance counselors do classroom presentations to discuss course selection options and distribute course selection sheets

o CDMS guidance counselors present to current 7th and 8th grade students in classrooms. The 6th grade Math teachers will make a recommendation for next school year’s Math class and then the course sheet will be sent home for parent signature.

o Information for 5th to 6th grade course selection will be obtained from elementary teachers via the principals.

Course selection sheets are due in the guidance office with parent signatures. Specific due dates are given each year when the classroom presentations are made.

April – May Any changes to course selections should be addressed to

your child’s school counselor via a signed note indicating requested change(s).

CDMS guidance counselors will visit the elementary schools to address the students about transitioning to middle school and to answer any questions they may have.

May – July Master schedule developed by the school’s

administration. Course conflicts resolved.

August Schedules mailed to each student’s home. Any changes to schedules should be addressed to your child’s school counselor by

phone or via a signed note indicating requested change(s).

Grading ScaleGrades are issued in accordance to the grading scale of Central Dauphin School District. Report cards are issued at the end of each 45-day marking period.

A: 90 – 100 Superior B: 80 – 89 Above Average C: 70 – 79 AverageD: 60 – 69 Below AverageF: 0 - 59 Failure

Distinguished Honors – No grade less than 90% in any major subject. No grade lower than 70% in any minor subject.Honors – No grade less than 80% in any major subject. No grade lower than 70% in any minor subject.

* A major subject will be any course meeting a minimum of six times during the six day cycle.

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Sixth GradeSixth grade students are welcomed to the middle school by a team of three teachers, each teaching at least two subject areas. Students begin each day with their homeroom teacher where attendance and other matters are handled. Sixth graders start the first two periods of each day in their language arts class and do not change class until the end of second period. With the exception of mathematics, all sixth grade students take the same core academic courses. In addition, each student participates in the Creative Arts Rotation program (see page 9) and has the option of taking up to three Music classes (see page 11).

The following is a typical course load for a sixth grade student: Language Arts Mathematics (two options) Social Studies Science

Creative Arts Rotation Health/Physical Education (alternating

schedule each day) Academic Enrichment and/or Music(s)

Language ArtsSixth graders participate in an integrated language arts program including Reading, Spelling, English, and written expression. Level six of the Houghton Mifflin series using Triumph Anthology is utilized. This is a continuation of the program used in the district’s elementary schools. 

Mathematics Most sixth grade students continue the Everyday Mathematics (EDM) program which began in the elementary math program. At this grade, the program emphasizes the following content strands, skills, and concepts: numbers and numeration, operations and computations, data and chance, measurement and reference frames, geometry and patterns, functions and algebra.

Pre-Algebra is a one-year course designed to prepare students for Algebra in seventh grade. The content focuses on signed numbers, operations with rational numbers and integers, solving equations and inequalities, ratios/percents/ proportions, powers and roots, probability, an introduction to linear equations and basic geometric concepts.

Students who have met the criteria listed below are eligible to take Pre-Algebra in 6 th grade.1. 85% Average on the End of the Year Assessment2. 85% Average in 5th Grade EDM3. Advanced on their 4th Grade Math PSSA Test4. Teacher Recommendation

Social StudiesLevel six of Harcourt’s Horizons Social Studies Program focuses on world regions (U.S., Canada, Central America, Caribbean, South America, Australia, and New Zealand). Content covers the five strands of social studies (geography, culture, history, government, and economics). There is an emphasis on the five themes of geography (location, place, regions, movement, and human environment interactions). Students use these themes in studying various regions throughout the world.

ScienceThe sixth grade science curriculum utilizes the Full Option Science System (FOSS). These modules focus on Models and Designs, Levers and Pulleys, and Diversity of Life. The Science curriculum also addresses Newton's Laws of Motion and Ecology.

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Sixth Grade (continued)Health/Physical Education

Sixth grade students alternate between Health and Physical Education each day. The Health curriculum engages students in discussions about health and wellness. In Physical Education students adhere to rigid routines, including changing into uniforms, using assigned lockers and taking assessments of skills and knowledge. Emphasis is placed on active participation, positive interactions, sportsmanship, proficiency in sports skills and adherence to expected routines.

Seventh GradeAll seventh grade students take the same English and Social Studies courses. There are two options in Science and three in Mathematics. Every student participates in the Creative Arts Rotation program (see page 9) and has the option of taking up to three Music classes (see page 11).

The following is a typical course load for a seventh grade student: English Mathematics (two options) Social Studies Science (two options) Creative Arts Rotation

Health/Physical Education (alternating schedule each day)

Academic Literacy Academic Enrichment

and/or Music(s)

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English English in seventh grade includes an anthology-based literature curriculum that addresses the major genres of poetry, short story, drama, fables, and folktales.  Reading skills, vocabulary development, and writing skills are stressed. Library research techniques are developed as students analyze a variety of topics.

MathematicsSeventh grade students take one of two mathematics classes depending on their mathematical ability and previous course work. Students that took Everyday Math in sixth grade will take Pre-Algebra. Those that took Pre-Algebra in sixth grade take Algebra I, dependent upon the successful completion of Pre-Algebra.

Pre-Algebra:This is a one-year course designed to prepare students for Algebra in eighth grade. Content includes signed numbers, operations with rational numbers and integers, solving equations, ratios/proportions/ percents, powers and roots, probability, an introduction to polynomials and basic geometric concepts.Algebra I:This one-year course continues with the concepts and skills introduced in Pre-Algebra. Linear expressions, equations and inequalities are explored. Graphing, probability and statistics, systems of equations and their applications, operations with polynomials, quadratic equations, factoring and the quadratic formula and rational expressions are included.

Seventh Grade (continued)Academic LiteracyAcademic Literature teaches students skills to comprehend nonfiction text and transfer these skills to other content areas and standardized tests. Emphasis is placed on recognizing and understanding patterns of organization, recognizing informational text that requires different reading strategies, making connections across genres, organizing time and information efficiently, and a comprehensive knowledge of how vocabulary affects a competent reader.

Social StudiesSeventh grade World History traces the development of ancient civilizations and their influence on modern times. This course focuses on the development of cultures and their contributions in government, language, religion, science, and technology through the Renaissance and Reformation. Geography is integrated into each of the units. The course is designed to give students an appreciation of the intercultural aspects of our global society.

ScienceSeventh grade Life Science is a combination of life, environmental and physical sciences. All students study genetics, evolution, natural resources, and energy.  Students make use of the scientific method and measurement through many inquiry based lab activities. 

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Students who meet the criteria listed below are eligible for recommendation for the Advanced Life Science class:

1. Student must achieve at least an 88% overall average in 6th grade Science.2. Student must currently be maintaining an 88% average in Math class 3. Teacher recommendation

The Advanced Life Science class covers the same content of the regular class but at an accelerated pace which allows for additional writing and lab work.

Health/Physical EducationSeventh grade students alternate between Health and Physical Education each day. The health curriculum covers all parts of the health triangle: physical, social and emotional. Students work on various life skills including decision-making, goal setting, conflict resolution, and refusal skills.  Alcohol, tobacco, and drugs are included with both an understanding of each substance and how each impacts quality of life.

Physical Education provides opportunities for all students to develop psychomotor, social-emotional, and cognitive skills through a variety of physical activities. Lifetime personal fitness and wellness are a main focus through active participation.

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Eighth GradeEighth grade students are presented with many options to customize their schedules based upon interests and academic abilities. All eighth grade students take the same English and Social Studies classes. There are two options in Science and three in Mathematics. The options in Science and Math are based upon teacher recommendations, ability and past performance. Students who score proficient or advanced on the 7th grade PSSA in Reading may choose from one of three Foreign Languages which continue as options at the high school. Every student participates in the Creative Arts Rotation program (see page 9) and has the option of taking up to three Music classes (see page 11).

The following is a typical course load for an eighth grade student: English Mathematics (three options) Social Studies Science (two options) Creative Arts Rotation

Physical Education (meets every other day)

Health (meets every other day)

Responding to Reading Academic Enrichment and/or

Music(s)

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EnglishEighth grade English is an opportunity to hone listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills. Students improve their vocabulary, reading and comprehension skills and write in a variety of formats including narrative, persuasive, informative and comparison/contrast essays. Students are given opportunities to write creatively and advance their understanding of various types of writing, genres and poetic forms. Students are required to utilize proper grammar, mechanics and usage.

Responding to ReadingThis course focuses on preparing students to be successful on the Reading PSSA building student skills in answering multiple-choice questions and writing responses to open-ended questions. Literary vocabulary included on the PSSA is introduced and practiced throughout the course.

MathematicsEighth grade students take one of three Mathematics courses depending on their mathematical ability and previous course work. Students that took Transition to Algebra Part 1 in seventh grade take Transition to Algebra Part 2 in eighth grade. Those that took Pre-Algebra in seventh grade take Algebra 1, and those who took Algebra take Geometry.

Intro to Algebra:Intro to Algebra is a one-year course offered to 8th grade students.  40% of the school year (five chapters) will be spent strengthening students’ Pre-Algebra skills.  These skills will include operations with integers, powers, multiplying and dividing exponents, rational and irrational numbers, squares and square roots, percents, discounts and sales tax.  The remaining 60% (seven chapters) will focus on Algebra skills.  These skills will include linear equations, slope, rate of change, scatter plots, systems of equations, solving inequalities, probability and counting outcomes. 

Algebra:This one-year course continues with the concepts and skills introduced in Pre-Algebra. Linear expressions, equations and inequalities are explored. Graphing, probability and statistics, systems of equations and their applications, operations with polynomials, quadratic equations, factoring and the quadratic formula and rational expressions are included. Geometry:Students that successfully completed Algebra in seventh grade take this one-year course which covers points, lines, planes, angles, connecting reasoning and proof, circles, applying trigonometry, investigating polygons/area/volume and understanding the hierarchy of quadrilaterals.

Eighth Grade (continued)Social StudiesEighth United States History introduces the first part of American History beginning with the Constitution and concluding with Immigration. Students learn the contributions of various cultural and ethnic groups to the formation of our republic and national life. Through a variety of supplemental materials and activities, students demonstrate their understanding of key historical periods and their impact on the development of the nation’s character. Emphasis is placed on the democratic process and advanced thinking skills. The content in this course will be continued in ninth grade US History II.

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ScienceThe eighth grade Science class covers aspects of Physical Science, Geology, Earth and Space Science and is designed to broaden students’ understanding of the physical and environmental makeup of both Earth and space.  Fundamentals of the periodic table, atoms, phases of matter, the combination and breakdown of substances, weather, meteorology, geology, hydrology, oceanography, and astronomy are discussed.  Students further develop their knowledge of environmental issues, the human influence on the environment and the need to maintain a balanced environment.  The use of the scientific method and measurement skills continue to be emphasized.

Students who meet the criteria listed below are eligible for recommendation for the Advanced Science class:

1. Student must achieve at least an 88% overall average in 6th grade Science.2. Student must currently be maintaining an 88% average in Math class 3. Teacher recommendation

The Advanced Earth and Space Science class covers the same content of the regular science class but at an accelerated pace to allow additional writing and lab work.

Physical EducationStudents develop an understanding of their physical fitness, social interactions and overall well-being. Students develop proficiency in individual skills which are applied in team and individual activities. Cooperation and good sportsmanship are emphasized along with individual responsibility for participation, dressing properly, and maintaining lockers. This course aids in transition to high school.

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Core Academic Course ProgressionThe tables below show how students might progress through core academic courses from sixth to ninth grade. The tables do not show every option for course combinations nor do they show all of the elective courses at the high school level. Eighth grade students and their parents will receive additional information about ninth grade options at high school course selection meetings held in the spring.

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English

Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 Grade 9

Language Arts English English

EnglishCollege Prep

EnglishHonors English

Math

Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 Grade 9

Everyday Math Pre-AlgebraIntro to Algebra Algebra I

Algebra I Geometry

Pre-Algebra Algebra I Geometry Algebra II

Social Studies

Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 Grade 9

Social Studies World History U.S. History I U.S. History II

Science

Grade 6 Grade 7 Grade 8 Grade 9

Science

Life Science Earth Science Science

Life Science Advanced Earth Science Honors Biology

Advanced Life Science

Advanced Earth Science Honors Biology

Creative Arts RotationStudents in all three grades rotate through the four courses with each rotation lasting one marking period.

ArtSixth grade art stresses the understanding and comprehension of the elements and principles of art within the creation of student artwork, as

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well as the recognition of these ideas within the artwork of others. While student projects vary in the materials used and the techniques demonstrated, each finished product corresponds to those specific concepts or ideas. Students are given the opportunity to work with and explore an abundance of different mediums and techniques (i.e. watercolor painting, collage and drawing). In addition, various cultural influences within specific artists and art movements will be examined.

In the seventh grade art curriculum, students become critical analysts in developing their own feelings and emotions about their works of art, as well as art throughout history. Students continue to focus on both the elements and principles of design by developing artistic vocabulary and understanding of the key ideas and terms with which they are associated. Comprehension and understanding of each element and principle of art is demonstrated through different projects and techniques.

In eighth grade students reinforce concepts learned in seventh grade and focus on the importance of the following goals within the fine arts: art production, art history, art criticism and art aesthetics. Through the promotion of higher-level thinking, students continue to create works of art that identify the elements and principles of art by exploring both two- and three-dimensional art qualities. Students also learn how to critically analyze their own work and that of others.

Computer/KeyboardingThe main goal of the sixth grade Computer/Keyboarding Level 1 class is to provide an opportunity for students to develop and improve preferred computer-keyboarding techniques (proper finger placement/reaches, posture, positioning, and hand-eye coordination) for efficient computer use. The focus for Level 1 students is the alphabetic keyboard. Glencoe Keyboarding Connections and Microsoft Word are used in a Windows environment.

The seventh grade students move to Computer/Keyboarding Level 2 that provides an opportunity for students to continue developing and improving the preferred computer-keyboarding techniques for efficient computer use. The focus for level 2 students is the numeric keyboard and symbols. Students are introduced to basic computer application skills including identification of software commands, managing files, and editing. Students use Glencoe Keyboarding Connections, Microsoft Power Point, and Inspiration.

The eighth grade Computer Applications course is designed to provide an opportunity for students to improve and develop keyboarding skills and use the computer for word processing to create business letters, outlines, fliers, newsletters, tables, and reports. Students use Glencoe Keyboarding Connections, Microsoft Word, Inspiration, and Internet Explorer.   Music ClassThe sixth grade program includes the study of basic musical elements, American musical styles like jazz, and its composers and musician. In addition the students will learn beginning piano and basic musical composition.  Students gain musical knowledge through listening, singing and creating.  The seventh grade program stresses the elements of music: melody, rhythm, harmony and style through listening, singing and creating.  Critical thinking, notation and analysis are used throughout the course, and creativity is encouraged through student composition.  Students learn to begin to play the guitar and continue to play the piano.   In addition, American musical theater is a unit of study in this grade.   

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The eighth grade curriculum guides the student through a history of musical styles and time periods.  A voice unit involves vocal techniques and the study of opera.  Students gain an understanding and appreciation of music through listening, creating, singing and acting.  In addition, the students will learn guitar and piano notes, chords and composition.

Technology EducationTeachers within the technology education department at Central Dauphin Middle school realize that technology is everywhere and its uses and problem solving capabilities increases exponentially each year. Technology is the application of tools, materials, processes, and systems used by humans to solve problems and satisfy our wants and needs. The study of technology requires students to design, create, use, evaluate and modify technological systems to solve problems. By solving these problems, students are given unique opportunities to apply numerous academic concepts through practical hands-on applications. Sixth grade students will strive to develop a general understanding of technology and apply basic measurement and manual drafting to design, create and test technology in common areas such as transportation.

In seventh grade, students will build on their current understanding of technology while introducing new concepts such as electronics, structures, and desktop publishing. These concepts will be a conduit to a more heightened appreciation of their own abilities. Students will work towards improving their skills in safety, measurement, while utilizing the problem solving model. Seventh graders will also be introduced to some basic Computer Aided Drafting to assist in increasing each student’s ability to design technology.

The eighth grade program will introduce students to the manufacturing laboratory. Students will be taught specific safety rules for each machine and must pass a manipulative test before being granted permission to use each machine. Students will design and build their own individualized projects. In addition to an individualized wood product, students will be given a basic introduction to computer numeric control (CNC). Utilizing their knowledge and newly acquired CNC skills, students will design and machine a simple part. Students will also further improve their Computer aided drafting and design skills in an attempt to develop new skills in areas such as web design, and video editing.

Music ElectivesBand, orchestra, and choir are available as graded elective courses at each grade level. Each performing group meets three days in a 6-day cycle (possibly two cycle days if in other ensembles). The electives are available during Academic Enrichment period. Students may choose one, two, or three of the music electives. Music electives build upon skills acquired during the introductory program in the elementary school. Students begin to learn to play instruments while in 4th grade and continue to build their skills through 5th grade in preparation for the secondary program. Any student who has not played an instrument in the past should contact the director to make arrangements to begin instruction. The ability to perform at band/orchestra/choir concerts will depend on personal ability and be determined on a case-by-case basis.

The band program is made up of wind and percussion instruments including: flute, oboe, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba, drums, and keyboard mallets. The orchestral program includes violins, violas, cellos and string basses. In addition to rehearsals, the band and orchestra program include lessons that meet once a cycle in small groups. These ensembles emphasize a comprehension of basic musicianship through learning the skill of

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playing a musical instrument. Technical skills, tone production, ensemble balance, and intonation are all emphasized during instruction.

In Choir, students are introduced to many styles of music, including music of different cultures and languages. Through rehearsing, students begin to develop critical listening skills, create two and three-part harmony, improve their personal skill as a musician and learn the importance of collaboration.

Library Media ProgramThe library media program focuses on preparing all students to be effective users of ideas and information. This is accomplished through integration of the library media program into the curriculum as a whole and a partnership among library staff, district and building level administrators, teachers, and parents.

In grade 6, students are gradually introduced to new print and electronic resources through mini-research projects related to classroom studies, while at the same time, research skills introduced in elementary school are reinforced.

Seventh and eighth grade students complete research assignments that require further utilization of resources and the development of research skills. By eighth grade, students engage in research activities that require the ability to discern the best resources to use for specific purposes, and they are able to synthesize information found in order to effectively use that information.

In addition to the above, all students are provided the opportunity to select books of their choosing for recreational reading, thus encouraging them to become independent seekers of information and lifelong learners.

Gifted ProgramStudents enrolled in the gifted program attend a class once during the six day cycle during academic time.  In sixth grade, students begin the year by participating in a Gifted Web quest in order to discover personal strengths and weaknesses and to learn more about him/her self. Upon completion of the project they orally present their findings to their peers. For the remainder of the school year, students choose a project to work on based on their interest level. Possibilities include Stock Market investing, independent research, Techno Travel where they learn how to use Microsoft PowerPoint, or reading and then writing plays/stories. In seventh and eighth grade, students participate in activities to develop higher level thinking skills and learn new vocabulary which is frequently tested on the SAT for the first half of the year. The second half is dedicated to each student’s independent project that culminates with an oral presentation given to their peers. Eighth grade students also have available to them the Advanced Responding to Reading and Research course which is offered to all gifted students who score Advanced on their PSSA Reading test. The class emphasis is based on reading novels, both independently as well as in a group setting, learning how to successfully complete research projects following the guidelines set at the high school, and PSSA Prep for continued success.

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Special Education ProgramsAutistic SupportStudents identified with an Autism spectrum disorder work with a special education teacher in all of their core subject areas as deemed necessary by each student’s specific needs. The goal of the program is to provide students with instruction in the least restrictive environment to enrich their educational opportunities and provide them with a forum to learn and grow with their peers as appropriate in school. Specific course content in English, math, reading and social skills is addressed in greater detail. In all areas, specific student accommodations are determined based upon each child’s individual needs, abilities and academic level.

Students are divided into leveled teams where students learn Math concepts utilizing the Saxon Math program in combination with supplemental materials.  Criterion referenced practice activities and assessments are utilized to determine student progress.

In social skills class students are taught using Michelle Garcia Winner's social skills curriculum. This curriculum addresses social behavior mapping, making impressions, perspective taking, and problem solving.  Students also participate in role-playing, conversation partners, and self-reflection. 

Learning SupportMaterial in all Learning Support courses is presented in a small group setting and a slower pace than the regular education courses. An active IEP is required.

English, 6, 7, 8th grade

This course has a focus on written expression as it relates to writing for the purpose of communication with heavy emphasis on vocabulary, spelling, and the five domains of writing (focus, content, organization, style, and conventions).  Literary skills are incorporated when

possible.  Grade 6, 7, 8 PA Academic Standards and regular education curriculum are utilized in planning.   

Math, 6th gradeThis course is designed to cover Grade 6 PA Academic Standards for Math using the regular education curriculum - Everyday Math.   Math - 7th gradeThis course is designed to cover Grade 7 PA Academic Standards for Math using the regular education curriculum - Pre-Algebra Transition I. The course focuses on algebraic topics including operations with integers and rational numbers, solving one and two step operations, and graphing positive and negative numbers. Math - 8th gradeThis course is designed to cover Grade 8 PA Academic Standards for Math using the regular education curriculum - Pre-Algebra Transition II. This is a continuation of the skills acquired in Transition Part 1.  The course focuses on patterns and number

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theory, investigating geometry, statistics and data analysis, applications with proportions and percents, area and volume, algebraic functions, and graphs.

 Reading – 6, 7, 8th gradeThis course uses the SRA Corrective Reading Series.  It concentrates on decoding and comprehension skills.  The student's instructional level is determined according to a placement test given at the end of 5th grade.  The instructor also incorporates Grade 6, 7 and 8th PA Academic Standards for Reading.

Special Education Programs (continued)Intensive Learning SupportThe Intensive Learning Support Program provides an alternative program for middle school age students in grades six, seven, and eight. Students identified as a child with, but not limited to Mental Retardation, Other Health Impairment, and/or Specific Learning Disability may be eligible for the program as deemed appropriate by the IEP team. The primary focus of the program is three-fold; to promote the development of reading, writing, and math skills; the development of social skills; and the development of learning strategies and independence.

Curriculum will include mathematics, language arts, reading, science, and history. Adaptive physical education and adapted creative arts are also offered. A variety of multi-sensory approaches are utilized to meet individual student needs. All coursework is aligned with the Pennsylvania Standards Aligned System and is modified and adapted as determined by the Individualized Education Plan (IEP).

Special Education students serviced in the program receive individualized instruction and an individualized schedule based on their specific need. Student schedules can encompass a variety of pathways such as:

1.) All core subject areas instructed within the Intensive Learning Support classroom 2.) A combination of all core subject areas instructed in both the Intensive Learning Support classroom and Itinerant Learning Support classroom3.) A combination of all core subject areas instructed in the Intensive Learning Support classroom, Itinerant Learning Support classroom, and general education classroom

Life Skills Support There are two Life Skills Support (LSS) classes at CDMS designed to meet the needs of students with cognitive disabilities.  Students are divided by individual cognitive ability into the most appropriate and least restrictive environment to best serve their needs. Work groups are small in number to better address individual levels and pace.  The curriculum is based on functional academics (reading, writing, math, phonics), acquisition of daily living skills, socialization and community experiences including Community Based Instruction (CBI) trips.  Included in the classroom curriculum and instruction are functional skills which include telling time, money and finance, social skills, living skills, health and safety and vocational interests. The LSS program helps students acquire these skills in order to live as independently as possible.  Students also participate in adaptive classes including Physical Education, Music, Family and Consumer Science, Technology Education and Art.  Peer interaction is encouraged in a variety of situations.

Multiple DisabilitiesStudents with significant cognitive and developmental delays are a part of the Multiple Disabilities Support (MDS) classroom. Instruction is heavily concentrated on improvement of fine motor skills such as holding a paint brush or ball and gross motor skills such as

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standing with support or walking with an assistive device. Students are supported with their daily living skills, such as self feeding, brushing teeth or toilet training. In preparation for graduation, some students, as determined by individual ability, work on pre-vocational skills. Students can oftentimes complete job tasks by following a visual schedule. Paramount to student development and growth, we concentrate on communication. The majority of MDS students are nonverbal and achieve communication through the use of assistive communication devices, communication boards, eye gaze, facial expressions or sign language.

Time SchedulesEach grade level follows a slightly different schedule during the day to accommodate three different lunch periods (noted with an “L”). Class periods are 44 minutes in length with the exception of a 30 minute lunch period. Academic Enrichment (AE) is 45 minutes in length.

6th Grade 7th GradeArrival 7:20 – 7:40 Arrival 7:20 – 7:40Homeroom 7:40 – 7:45 Homeroom 7:40 – 7:45Period 1 7:45 – 8:29 Period 1 7:45 – 8:29Period 2 8:32 – 9:15 Period 2 8:32 – 9:15Period 3 (AE) 9:18 – 10:02 Period 3 9:18 – 10:02Period 4 10:05 – 10:51 Period 4 10:05 – 10:51Period 5 (L) 10:54 – 11:24 Period 5 10:54 – 11:37Period 6 11:27 – 12:10 Period 6 11:40 – 12:23Period 7 12:13 – 12:56 Period 7 (L) 12:26 – 12:56Period 8 12:59 – 1:42 Period 8 12:59 – 1:42Period 9

1:45 – 2:30Period 9 (AE) 1:45 – 2:30

8th Grade

Arrival 7:20 – 7:40Homeroom 7:40 – 7:45Period 1 7:45 – 8:29Period 2 8:32 – 9:15Period 3 9:18– 10:02Period 4 10:05 – 10:51Period 5 10:54 – 11:37Period 6 (L) 11:40 – 12:10

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Period 7 12:13 – 12:56Period 8 12:59 – 1:42Period 9 (AE) 1:45 – 2:30

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