Electives

CS Course Description

AC Course Description

Computer Science for Innovators and Makers (CS)
This unit will allow students to discover computer science concepts and skills by creating personally relevant, tangible, and shareable projects. Throughout the unit, students will learn about programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development. They will design and develop a physical computing device, interactive art installation, or wearable, and plan and develop code for microcontrollers that bring their physical designs to life. Physical computing projects will promote student awareness of interactive systems, including Internet of Things (IoT) devices, and broaden their understanding of abstract computer science concepts through meaningful and authentic applications.

​App Creators (AC)
This unit will expose students to computer science by computationally analyzing and developing solutions to authentic problems through mobile app development, and will convey the positive impact of the application of computer science to other disciplines and to society. Students will customize their experience by choosing a problem that interests them from the areas of health, environment, emergency preparedness, education, community service, and school culture. Because problems in the real world involve more than one discipline, the unit will introduce students to biomedical science concepts as they work on solutions for the specific problems they choose to tackle.

DM Course Description

AR Course Description

Design & Modeling (DM)
Students apply the design process to solve problems and understand the influence of creativity and innovation in their lives. They work in teams to design a playground and furniture, capturing research and ideas in their engineering notebooks. Using Autodesk® design software, students create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions.

Automation & Robotics (AR)
Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics as they learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use the VEX Robotics® platform to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms. ​

GA Course Description

EE Course Description

FS Course Description

MD Course Description

Green Architecture (GA)
Today’s students have grown up in an age of “green” choices. In this unit, students learn how to apply this concept to the fields of architecture and construction by exploring dimensioning, measuring, and architectural sustainability as they design affordable housing units using Autodesk’s® 3D architectural design software.

Energy & the Environment (EE)
Students are challenged to think big and toward the future as they explore sustainable solutions to our energy needs and investigate the impact of energy on our lives and the world. They design and model alternative energy sources and evaluate options for reducing energy consumption. 

Flight & Space (FS)
The exciting world of aerospace comes alive through Flight and Space. Students explore the science behind aeronautics and use their knowledge to design, build, and test an airfoil. Custom-built simulation software allows students to experience space travel.

Medical Detectives (MD)
Students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they analyze genetic testing results to diagnose disease and study DNA evidence found at a “crime scene.” They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs, investigate how to measure and interpret vital signs, and learn how the systems of the human body work together to maintain health. 

Introduction to Computers
This course is designed to allow students the opportunity to survey the field of computer technology and information processing systems.  Students will acquire a basic understanding of how computers process information through the integrated use of hardware and software.  Computer laboratory sessions will introduce students to a variety of application software packages that will include word processing, spreadsheets, database, multimedia presentations and communication functions.

Advanced Explorations in Media
Students will research and report on media topics using skills learned in the Introduction to Computers course. 

Visual Art
Students explore a variety of media as they build their skills and express themselves through drawing, painting, design, sculpture, film and photography. Theory is introduced to help elaborate upon ideas about color, perspective, design and composition. Art history, art appreciation and art criticism are integrated into lessons as a framework for the curriculum. Projects include cultural mask making, stop-motion animation, logo design, watercolor landscapes and photography.

Advanced Art
Students further develop their skills through drawing, graphics, print-making, sculpting, painting, film and photography. Composition, technique, the elements and principals of design and attention to detail are explored. Art history, art appreciation, problem solving and critical thinking are integrated into lessons. Projects include, charcoal still life, print-making, character design, animal sculptures and film making.

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​General Music
The general music class introduces the concepts of playing a wind or percussion instrument with an emphasis on instrument care, music reading breath management, basic music terms and basic instrumental skill development. The following instruments are offered in this class: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, snare drum and xylophone. Students studying percussion are required to play both snare drum and xylophone. Music history is also explored through the study of composers, world music, and the music styles of jazz, blues and rock and roll

Winds & Percussion
The wind and percussion class teaches the fundamental skills of playing a wind or percussion instrument. The primary focus for this class is on basic instrumental skill development, music reading, sound production, breath management, basic music terms, and caring for the instrument. The following instruments are offered in this class: flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet, trombone, baritone, tuba, snare drum and xylophone. The goal of this class is to develop individual and ensemble musicianship so the student can enter into the Senior Band the following year. Music history is also explored through the study of composers, world music, and the music styles of jazz, blues and rock and roll. Students in this class are offered an opportunity to perform at on campus concerts.

Senior Band
 The Senior Band is Olive Vista Middle School’s most advanced performing ensemble for wind and percussion instrumentalists. Skills and concepts from the previous year are developed and expanded upon, with a focus on the fundamental elements of music practice and performance. This year long course introduces “comprehensive musicianship” through music performance of challenging and varied literature with an emphasis on ensemble performance skills. The Senior Band performs at several concerts throughout the school year, both on and off campus.

Leadership/Yearbook
Students are required to plan, implement, and evaluate projects. This class will teach students how to develop leadership, professional, and business skills to help them through their projects. Students will learn to establish healthy relationships, understand the concept of personal responsibility, teamwork, organization of projects, and self-awareness. Students perform student council projects involving health, safety, energy, environment, school pride, and community service. This class is not designed to be an “easy grade”. Time out side of the class is required in order to fulfill the requirements of the class.