Academics & arts together

Middle School Core Academic Classes (7:45am - 12:15pm)

Academic requirements for Middle School (grade 6 to 8) students include the following;

Middle school Academic Curriculum Details

Language Arts, 7th Grade
Students read and study a variety of literature including novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. The novels are primarily historical fiction and adolescent fiction while the rest of the literature is primarily classical.

Grammar/Study Skills, 7th & 8th Grade
The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the fundamentals of grammar and the study skills necessary for successful student learning. The grammar component of the class begins with the eight parts of speech, continues through diagramming techniques, and concludes with skill building exercises that emphasize smooth sentence construction consistent with excellent writing.

Language Arts - 6th Grade
The year will be spent studying a variety of literature genres in whole class literature studies as well as in smaller literature circles. Literary elements will be analyzed throughout all literature studies through projects and discussion and writing descriptive, clear literary responses will be a focus throughout the year. The writing process will be reviewed and expanded upon through Writer's Workshop and guided writing activities.

Language Arts - 5th Grade
5th grade students will be reading a variety of books and creating vast amounts of writing during the year. They will be exposed to a variety of literary genres including realistic fiction, fantasy, historical fiction, persuasive, functional and expository texts as outlined by the Arizona State Standards. Grammar and spelling lessons are integrated into their literature activities. Students are expected to be active participants in inquiry based discussions, projects and activities.

Social Studies- 7th Grade
Students study culture, history and geography by conducting, presenting, and writing about research; creating maps; writing reflective journals; participating in discussions; and participating in collaborative activities.

Geography & American History - 8th Grade
The students will have a chronological overview of American History, regular current events discussions, and geography centered on the five themes of geography.

Social Studies - 6th Grade
The study of ancient civilizations and religions will be the focus during the 6th grade. Students are responsible for reading a variety of materials, actively participating in classroom discussions and completing clear, organized thoughtful writing assignments and projects.

Social Studies - 5th Grade
The focus during 5th grade is U.S. history. Students study the reasons for European exploration and colonization of North America; Native American tribes they encountered; geographic features discovered; and the democratic principles and ideals established in the Mayflower Compact, Declaration of Independence, Articles of Confederation, United States Constitution, and the Bill of Rights.

Science - 6th Grade
Students participate in a hands-on, integrated Science course that focuses on the development of Scientific Method skills. Using the ocean as the central theme, students then apply these Scientific Method skills in their investigation of Life, Earth, and Physical Science.

Science - 7th Grade
Students participate in a hands-on, integrated Science course that focuses on the development of Scientific Method skills. Using Environmental Science as the central theme, students then apply these Scientific Method skills in their investigation of Life, Earth, and Physical Science.

Science - 8th Grade
Students participate in a hands-on, integrated Science course that focuses on the development of Scientific Method skills. Using Matter and Energy as the central themes, students then apply these Scientific Method skills in their investigation of Life, Earth, and Physical Science.

Science - 5th Grade
At ASA, students participate in a hands-on, integrated science curriculum that focuses on the development of scientific method skills. Fifth grade students will apply these skills in their investigation of Life, Earth, and Physical Science

Math - 6th Grade
During the year we will solve problems using addition, subtraction, multiplication and division of fractions, decimals and percents. We will calculate and analyze basic statistics and introduce coordinate graphing. In geometry we will formalize the study of two-dimensional shapes.

Math - 7th Grade
During this year we will use data, graphs and tables to demonstrate and analyze the relationship between two variables, leading to an introduction to linear modeling. We will also extend problem solving to include integers (negative numbers). In Geometry, we will analyze three-dimensional shapes.

Math - 8th Grade
Topics include: Formalizing linear modeling to represent data, simple statistical analysis using graphs and numerical measures, synthetic transformational geometry, and development of the Pythagorean Theorem.

Math - 5th Grade
The 5th Grade Math curriculum at Arizona School for the Arts is built on the foundations of the revised Arizona state standards. Layered on this, are objectives and approaches used by states with excelling math programs with an emphasis on problem solving and higher order thinking skills. The curriculum will be implemented with a combination of hands-on manipulatives to grasp concepts and repetition of material to master subject matter. The program is also designed to integrate seamlessly into the existing ASA Math curriculum.

Middle School Core Arts Requirements

Middle School Arts Curriculum Details

Intro to Dance
This level is open to 5th and 6th grade students who are new to the study of dance. Dance classes are taught at an off campus location, and students are transported by bus to the dance studio and back to the ASA campus. Students in this level will explore the introductory concepts of ballet and jazz. Class activity includes exercises and movement to build body strength, flexibility, endurance, musicality, coordination and discipline. They will also participate in a weekly "Dance Study" class where they will be introduced to the history and language of classical ballet. Pre-requisites: None. 5-6 Grades

Ballet Foundations 1
This level is open to 5th and 6th grade students who are at an advanced beginning level in ballet. Dance classes are taught at an off campus location, and students are transported by bus to the dance studio and back to ASA campus. Students in this level will attend ballet class three days a week where emphasis will be placed on expanding their knowledge of the basic concepts of classical ballet taught in Introduction to Dance. In addition, they will have a weekly "Dance Study" class where they will explore the history and vocabulary of classical ballet. The remaining day is reserved for an additional dance class which may include one of the following: jazz, modern, character or a specifically designed dance workshop. Pre-requisites: instructor permission. 5-6 Grades

Ballet Foundations 2
Ballet, Dance Study, Alternate Dance form and Dance workshop classes taught off campus. A bus is provided to the off-site location. Parents are required to pick-up students at the off-site location at the end of class. This class is a continuation of Ballet Foundations 1 with an emphasis on the study of the fundamentals of classical ballet. Students in this level are required to master more difficult combinations and movements. Pre-requisites: Satisfactory completion of Ballet Foundations 1 or audition. 7-8 Grades

Intermediate Dance
Ballet, Beginning Men's and Pointe, Modern, Flamenco, Dance Study, and Dance Workshop classes are taught off campus. A bus is provided to the off-site location. Parents are required to pick-up students at the off-site location at the end of class. In this level, students begin the study of complex combinations and are required to think critically about their dancing. The instructors ask more of each student in terms of musicality and movement quality. Students will also be strongly encouraged to expand and explore the theatrical aspects of their dancing. Pre-requisites: Satisfactory completion of Ballet Foundations or audition. 7-12 grades.

Ballet Corps Intensive
Ballet, Pointe, Men's, Modern, Flamenco, Dance Study, and Dance Workshop classes taught off campus. A bus is provided to the off-site location. Parents are required to pick-up students at the off-site location at the end of class. This level will continue to expand and explore in greater depth the technical and artistic nature of classical ballet, flamenco, and contemporary dance forms. These students are expected to have a strong grasp of the fundamentals of ballet and to be able to use them to form expressive, quality movement in classical and contemporary styles of dance. The students will continue to develop their musicality and strength in the execution of the ballet vocabulary. Pre-requisites: Satisfactory completion of Intermediate Dance or audition. 8-12 grades.

Intro to Woodwinds and Brass
This class focuses on the fundamentals of ensemble playing. The students learn the basics of their instrument, how to follow a conductor, and how to play as an ensemble. Instruments offered are flute, clarinet, alto saxophone, trumpet, and euphonium. There is no audition required. 5-6 Grades

Advanced Beginning Woodwinds and Brass
This class continues to focus on the fundamentals of ensemble playing and begins to expand the students' ability through standard music from the band repertoire and extending their technical abilities on their instrument. Audition only, instructor permission. 5-6 grades.

Band

Band Foundations 1
A beginning course in which woodwinds, brass, and percussion are taught in an ensemble setting. Pre-requisites: None. 7-9 grades.

Band Foundations 2
A continuing course in ensemble playing for woodwinds, brass, and percussion. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 7-12 grades.

Concert Band
An upper-level intermediate band program. Large ensemble work with an emphasis on performance. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 7-12 grades.

Wind Ensemble
An advanced band ensemble. Emphasis on performance, sight-reading, and advanced literature. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 7-12 grades.

Jazz Band
A Jazz ensemble performing many levels of music with an emphasis on ensemble performance and improvisation. Pre-requisites: Must be enrolled in another band class at ASA. Instructor permission. 6-12 grades.

Percussion Ensemble
A large performing ensemble composed entirely of percussionists. Class emphasis is placed on performance techniques of traditional, non-traditional and world percussion instruments as they apply to classical and contemporary percussion ensemble literature. Pre-requisites: Must be enrolled in a band class playing percussion at Foundations 2 level or higher. Instructor permission only. 6-12 grades.

Guitar

Guitar Foundations 1
An entry-level guitar class. Classical guitar techniques are taught in a group setting. All students will learn to read music. Pre-requisites: Students must purchase a nylon string classical guitar and foot stand for participation in class. Students with other equipment will not be admitted. Pre-requisites: 7-9 grades only.

Guitar Foundations 2
A continuing class in classical guitar techniques with an emphasis on ensemble work, beginning study of solo repertoire, sight-reading, and performance. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 6-12 grades.

Advanced Guitar Ensemble
An advanced classical guitar ensemble. Class emphasis is on advanced performance techniques, including extensive study of solo repertoire, sight-reading, and performance. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 7-12 grades.

Drama

Acting 1
This course will explore the fundamentals of acting. Study will include but is not limited to the following: monologue and scene work for audition preparation, voice and diction, connecting the physical body, the mind and the soul. . Pre-requisite: 9-10 grades. Open to majors and non-majors, The 9th Period class will be open to 8th grade students based upon space availability. 8th graders are still required to take the required block of arts classes during 7th and 8th period. Required for Theatre Majors.

Piano

Middle School Piano
Class piano instruction during academic hours to all middle school students. Students work independently at full-size Yamaha digital keyboards with individual headphones. The curriculum includes performance, theory, and technique. Basic skills for sight-reading and some general music appreciation are also incorporated. The classes are multi-level and the curriculum is designed to allow students to progress according to their own abilities. No previous experience is required. Access to a piano or keyboard at home is recommended.

Intro to: Violin; Viola; and Cello/Bass
Students will learn the basics in string technique, music theory as it applies to their string instrument, and ensemble playing. Classes are separated by instrument. No audition required. 5-6 Grades

Advanced Beginning: Violin; Low Strings (Cello/Bass)
Students will continue to work on string technique and music theory. There will be an emphasis on solo and ensemble playing allowing students will use their expanding knowledge of scales, shifting and bowing techniques. Classes are separated by instrument. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 5-6 Grades

Strings

String Foundations 1
A beginning course in violin, viola, cello, and string bass. Students will learn the basics in string technique, music theory for strings, and ensemble playing. Separate technique classes offered. Pre-requisites: None. 7-9 grades.

String Foundations 2
A continuation of String Foundations 1 at an intermediate level. Students will learn to play in a large ensemble and understand higher-level string theory. Students will learn shifting, 2 & 3 octave scales & arpeggios, and chamber music. Class will include an introduction of music history. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 7-12 grades.

Concert Orchestra
An upper-level intermediate, performing ensemble. Chamber music is an integral part of the program. Emphasis will be placed on shifting, 3 octave scales, arpeggios, and more advanced technique including vibrato. Private lessons are strongly encouraged for all members. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 7-12 grades.

Sinfonia
An advanced string performing ensemble. The large ensemble performs music from the standard concert string orchestra literature. Chamber music is an integral part of the program. Private lessons are strongly encouraged for all members. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 7-12 grades.

Voice

Voice Foundations 1
A beginning level voice class which focuses on building the foundation of a healthy vocal technique. Topics covered include breathing, posture, diction and interpretation. Proper vocal technique is demonstrated through the learning and performance of unison and two-part choral music. A wide variety of vocal music styles and genres are explored. The students learn to sight-read simple passages through the use of solfege hand-signs and syllables and basic music theory is addressed. Pre-requisites: None. 7-9 grades.

Voice Foundations 2
A continuation of Voice Foundations 1 with a further application of proper singing techniques. Students learn vowel production, consonant production, 2-part singing, and further application of music markings. These objectives are used to apply to the various genres of music performed. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 7-12 grades.

Men's Choir
A continuation of Voice Foundations 1 with a further application of proper singing techniques. Class is designed for male singers. Students learn vowel production, consonant production, 2-part singing, and further application of music markings. These objectives are used to apply to the various genres of music performed. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 7-12 grades.

Concert Choir
Advanced ensembles that study, learn, and perform multi-part music from a wide variety of styles and cultures. This course focuses on advanced musicianship and sound vocal technique. Pre-requisites: Audition only. Instructor permission is required. 7-12 grades.

Chamber Singers
An advanced audition only choral ensemble. Singers are exposed to the finest choral repertoire of the last five centuries. Rehearsals stress precision in attack, release, balance, blend, and intonation at a very high level. The result is frequently the standard of a four-year college. Pre-requisites: Audition only, instructor permission. 8-12 grades.