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Table of Contents

Page 1
Planning Your Education - Grade 6
Online Registration
Promotion Criteria
Page 2
School Information
Page 6
Course Descriptions

Planning Your Education

Your school provides this course curriculum guide as a means of assisting students and parents in understanding and planning their course of study. Students are encouraged to carefully select related arts courses during the registration process. Your school's guidance counselors and teachers stand ready to assist them. Parents are invited and encouraged to actively participate by assisting their student.

Related arts classes are scheduled based upon student requests. However, due to schedule conflicts and changes in course offerings, the staff cannot guarantee that students will be scheduled for all courses they request. In addition, be aware that the school builds a master schedule and employs teachers based on students' requests; therefore, schedule changes will only be considered on a very limited basis.

Online Registration

Online Registration was implemented in 2004. It allows parents and students to request related arts courses for the next school year from home via the Internet. Families who do not have access to the Internet will be given opportunities to use school computers to register online. Parents and students should understand that requesting a related arts course through online registration does not guarantee that the student is placed in the course the next school year. Final placement in a course is dependent upon enrollment, scheduling feasibility, and teacher allocation. Parents without Internet access at home will receive a printed copy of the course curriculum guide by request. The window for students to select related arts courses online is posted by the school on the school's website and in parent newsletters. Schools will provide instructions on accessing the online registration tool.

Promotion Criteria for Grades Six, Seven, and Eight

Criterion 1: Students in grades six through eight are expected to learn, at a minimum, curriculum standards in English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies, and meet attendance requirements.
Criterion 2: The student earned a minimum average grade of 60% in English language arts, mathematics, science, and social studies (if language arts is taught as a separate subject in grades 6-8, the English language arts grade will be determined by the mean of the yearly average of reading and language arts.)
End of Year Promotion Status
The following are summary designation and descriptors for end-of-year promotion status of students in grades six-eight.
Promoted – The student met all promotion criteria. The one exception is that students who fail a high school credit bearing course in middle school are promoted but must retake the course. Enrollment in these credit bearing courses will be determined by the district criteria.
Promoted - Summer School Required - The student failed to meet the criteria for one or two core academic areas, but successful performance in summer school for any deficient area was met.
                                                                                Hughes Academy

                                                                                 Academic Levels


Welcome to Hughes Academy! Each student’s current teachers select the academic level in which that student will be placed. Several factors are considered when making this decision: current progress, test scores, and grades. If you feel that your child has been inappropriately placed, please contact his/her current teacher.  

Challenge/Gifted and Talented (GT)  Criteria:
The School District of Greenville County provides programs for Challenge/GT students to challenge them with rigorous, complex classwork and research. Students may demonstrate high performance ability or potential in academic areas. Students must meet the state criteria before being placed in the Challenge/GT program. Students who meet the criteria in two of the three dimensions are eligible for placement.
Students may qualify automatically with an extremely high aptitude or IQ score of 96th percentile or higher for their age group. If students do not qualify solely on aptitude, this process will be used for screening:
Dimension A 
-- Reasoning Abilities - Students must demonstrate high aptitude (93rd national age percentile or above ) in one or more of these areas: verbal, nonverbal, quantitative and/or a composite of the three.
Dimension B  -- Academic Achievement - Students must demonstrate high achievement (94th national percentile and above or advanced status) in reading and/or math as measured by a nationally normed or South Carolina statewide assessment instrument.
Dimension C  -- Intellectual/Academic Performance - Students must demonstrate a high degree of interest in and commitment to academic and/or intellectual pursuits. Rising sixth grade students may be eligible to take the Performance Task Test in March if they have already met the criteria in Dimension A or Dimension B. Beginning with grade 7, students must have  3.75 GPA on a 4.0 scale to meet the criteria in Dimension C.

Results of private testing will not be accepted for placing students in the Challenge/GT program.

District Advanced  Criteria:

Math 6/7 : Must meet all   four of the following requirements:
(These students are potential candidates for Algebra I H in Grade 8. )

 

Teams

At Hughes Academy, we operate in a school-within-a-school framework. We have an administrator and a school counselor on each hall, and we have several teams in each grade level.  A team is a group of teachers who work together. Teams are composed of teachers who specialize in different areas. Generally, there will be one teacher from each of the following fields: English, Math, Science, and Social Studies. Each student is strategically placed in a team. Placement does not depend on ability level or performance. Teaming helps form a cohesive bond between students and teachers. During the year, your child's team will discuss his/her progress and implement a variety of strategies to ensure success. The team is also readily available to discuss issues as they arise.

​Advisory
Every day, students will participate in an advisory period. They will use this time to engage in a collaborative environment focusing on Social Emotional learning, career exploration and executive functioning skills. They also will have time to plan and organize their week by checking grades and Google classroom assignments and work with teachers for extra help. Students will be encouraged to analyze their academic data and reflect on what they are doing well and what they need to work on.

 Magnet Focus

We are a magnet school for Science, Technology, and Partial Spanish Immersion.     We implement a STEAM curriculum and offer tracks of study in both technology and Spanish Immersion as part of our magnet program.     Details of each path are included.

   
This matrix is a suggested track of study based on technology interests of individual students. There are no prerequisites for any course accept 8th grade Auto Robotics. For 8th grade Auto-Robotics, we do recommend that a student takes 6th or 7th grade Auto Robotics. All courses are offered pending teacher staffing.

 


    















 

Hughes Academy Scheduling Card - 6th Grade


Student Name_________________________________

Elementary School  ________________________________

Welcome to the 2024-2025 School Year at Hughes Academy!


Have questions? Please visit the Hughes Academy School Counseling Website at

https://sites.google.com/greenvilleschools.us/hughescounselingdepartment

for helpful presentation slides, videos and dates for registration.



Core Classes

Below are the courses that your teachers recommend for your 6th grade school year at Hughes. If you or your parents have questions, please contact your school counselor and 5th grade teacher. 

Teachers -- please circle one class from each category below


English :  English Studies 6     or     English GT 6


Math :   Math 6     or     Math 6/7


Science : Science 6 

Social Studies : Social Studies 6

**Every student will be scheduled into a Study Topics 6 class for Advisory**

PE/Health – This course will already be selected for you. Every student must take a semester of PE every school year. This is an “essentials” course. 

  • PE/Health 6

Essentials Classes

Please rank the classes you want using the numbers 1 - 6 with 1 being the class you want the most and 6 with your last choice that you would be okay with having. Please note that there is a good chance you may not get one of your top choices.


**Please be aware that the classes below can change at any point before the beginning of the next school year due to unforeseen staffing and scheduling changes.**


Teacher Recommendation Courses

In order to register for the classes below, you will have to fill out an application online found on the Hughes Academy Counselor’s website.


_____Media Center Aide

_____Guidance Aide



***Band and Strings courses require students to purchase or rent an instrument**


Yearlong Course (Full Year Course)

____Strings***

____Band***

 

Semester Courses (Half Year Course)

____Art

____Beginner’s Spanish

____Computer Apps

____Drama

____Graphic Art and Design

____GTT Design & Modeling

____GTT Auto Robotics



Course Descriptions

English
Title:
English Studies 6
10013100
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
English Studies 6 is designed to prepare students for College and Career readiness as required by the South Carolina State Standards. The curriculum exposes students to a variety of genres, both literary andinformational. Placement Recommendation - Successful completion of grade 5.
Title:
English GT 6
10013200
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course is designed to meet the needs of academically gifted and talented students who were identified through the standard measures implemented by The School District of Greenville County. The curriculum designed specifically for this course meets the guidelines set forth by the South Carolina State Department of Education as criteria for Gifted and Talented instruction. Students should expect to find the curriculum challenging in a number of ways: text complexity, analytical writing, problem solving, creative endeavors, and accelerated pace. Prerequisite: Identified as GTA (Gifted and Talented Academic)
Title:
Reading Assistance 6th
10240000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course offers students remediation and additional assistance in reading skills in support of on grade level instruction in the regular Language Arts and/or Literature classroom. PREREQUISITE: Guidance Placement
Title:
Speech and Drama 6th
10991000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course is for students who are interested in improving their interpersonal communication skills and who wish to increase their confidence in delivering oral presentations. Instruction will encompass dramatic skills required for oral interpretation of standards-based literature. PREREQUISITE: None
Math
Title:
Math 6th
11100600
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This standards-based sixth-grade course is designed to help students begin the transition from arithmetic to algebraic thinking. It includes concepts, operations, and problems solving with decimals, fractions, and percents in addition to an introduction to integers and ratios. Students will develop algebraic thinking through the investigation of patterns, the use of simple equations and inequalities to represent relationships, and the use of tables and graphs to solve problems. Throughout the course there is an emphasis on the process standards of problem-solving, communication, reasoning, representations, and connections. PREREQUISITE: Teacher recommendation
Title:
Math 6th/7th
11100700
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This standards-based course is designed to help students begin the transition from arithmetic to algebraic thinking. It includes all of the grade 6 standards and half of the grade 7 standards. Topics include operations and problem-solving with decimals, fractions, integers, ratios, proportions, and percents. Students will develop algebraic thinking through the investigation of patterns, the use of one-and two-step equations and inequalities to represent relationships, and the use of tables and graphs to solve problems. Throughout the course there is an emphasis on the process standards of problem-solving, communication, reasoning, representations, and connections. PREREQUISITE: Must meet district criteria including Teacher recommendation
Science
Title:
Science 6th
12010000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
The focus for science in sixth grade is to provide students with inquiry based experiences that develop science concepts in the following areas: Structures, Processes and Response of Plants-structure and function of plants; Structures, Processes and Responses of Animals-structure and function of animals; Earths Atmosphere and Weather-atmospheric properties and processes; and, Conservation of Energy-properties of energy, work, and conservation of energy. PREREQUISITE: None
Social Studies
Title:
Social Studies 6th
13010000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
Sixth grade social studies expands students' understanding of history through the study of people, places, and events to the era of European exploration and settlement. Students focus not only on facts about various cultures but also on the significance of geography in history, their everyday lives, problems, and accomplishments of people, and their roles in developing the social, economic, and political structures of major civilizations. Instruction should emphasize the elements of social studies literacy, the tools, strategies, and perspectives necessary for understanding how history, geography, economics and government are interwoven. PREREQUISITE: None
Arts
Title:
Art 6
15010000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
The purpose of this course is to enable students to communicate ideas and concepts through a variety of artwork, including drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, arts, and crafts. A study of artists and their work will help students understand the techniques, skills, and diverse intentions of artists from many cultures and times. Students will focus on developing creative problem-solving skills, visual literacy, and personal expression. PREREQUISITE: None
Title:
Band 6
15310000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course provides beginning-level instruction on brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments. No previous musical experience is required. The curriculum includes the development of fundamental skills, concepts, composition, cooperative learning, music as it relates to history and culture, and band techniques. The class will include an expectation for the purchase or rental of an instrument and individual practice at home. Concert performances will be an outgrowth of the study of musical concepts. PREREQUISITE: None
Title:
Strings 6
15510000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course provides beginning-level instruction on violin, viola, cello, and string bass. No previous musical experience is required. The curriculum includes the development of fundamental skills, concepts, composition, cooperative learning, music as it relates to history and culture, and string techniques. The class will include an expectation for the purchase or rental of an instrument and individual practice at home. Some larger instruments are available at the school, and parents should coordinate with the director for their use. Concert performances will be an outgrowth of the study of musical concepts. PREREQUISITE: None
Title:
General Music 6th
15610000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This is a course providing students with the opportunity to explore musical concepts and further their understanding of music through listening, singing, playing instruments, and engaging in creative activities. PREREQUISITE: None
Title:
Graphic Arts & Design 6th
1599A100
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course will give the students an introduction to, and teaches the fundamentals, technology, skills and industry procedures used in graphic design industry. The students will be taught the theories behind successful graphic design and then be asked to apply them to ìreal worldî projects. All students will use the same software found in the graphics business world
Title:
Electronic Music
25999600
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6 - 8
This semester class will focus on using digital audio workstations (DAWs), along with virtual instruments and effects, for producing music and designing sounds to be used in various applications. There will be heavy focus on production techniques using pre-made instrument samples and arrangements or using the student's own compositions. The class will use computer-based automation software equipped with midi controllers for real-time interactivity and external controlling of production parameters. Students will get a feel for what it would be like to produce music, score film, compose with computers, and work in sound design. PREREQUISITE: None
Foreign Language
Title:
Spanish 6 Beginner Level
16500000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
Aligned with the district's vision, philosophy, and goals for world language education, this beginner course introduces students to the second language through high-quality learning experiences. Not only do students gain an understanding of what it means to learn a new language, they also experience progress over time and are likely to be motivated to continue language study. Students learn enough language to ensure that they will not be total beginners when they take another course in the same language. The goal of this course is to develop some language competence. PREREQUISITE: None
Title:
Spanish Language Arts 6th
16500600
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course integrates authentic literature, grammar, vocabulary practice; culture and how it relates to todayís world, and Pre-Advanced Placement support and practice. Students develop the ability to think critically about the language and cultures across a broad range of subjects. Students are expected to achieve a proficiency range of intermediate mid-high. This course is conducted entirely in Spanish. This course is a continuation of the partial immersion langauge program at Blythe Academy. It integrates authentic literature, grammar, vocabular practice; culture and how it relates to today's world, and Pre-Advanced Placement support and practice. Students develop the ability to think critically about the language and cultures across a broad range of subjects. Students are expected to acheive a proficiency range of intermediate mid-high. This course is conducted entirely in Spanish.
Physical Education
Title:
PE / Health 6
14401200
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
Enrollment in this course fulfills the regulation that all students will complete one quarter of physical education each year in grades 6 - 8 and all students will complete one quarter of health each year in grades 6 - 8. The content of the course will consist of both health and PE standards-based instruction. PREREQUISITE: None
Career and Technology
Title:
GTT6 Design & Modeling
17800000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This unit uses solid modeling (a very sophisticated mathematical technique for representing solid objects) to introduce students to the design process. Utilizing this design approach, students understand how solid modeling has influenced their lives. Students also learn sketching techniques, and use descriptive geometry as a component of design, measurement, and computer modeling. Using design briefs or abstracts, students create models and documentation to solve problems.
Title:
GTT6 Automation & Robotics
17810000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
Students trace the history and development of automation and robotics. They learn about structures, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students acquire knowledge and skills in engineering problem solving and explore requirements for careers in engineering.
Title:
GTT6 Science of Technology
17860000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
Science impacts the technology of yesterday, today, and the future. In this unit, students apply the concepts of physics, chemistry, and nanotechnology to activities and projects, including making ice cream, cleaning up an oil spill, and discovering the properties of nano-materials.
Miscellaneous
Title:
Exploratory PE 6th
14990000
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course provides students with the opportunity to explore and learn information and skills in the area of physical education. PREREQUISITE: None
Title:
Skill Building 6th
17990100
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course focuses on skills that students need to make better and more efficient use of study time. Students will actively engage in learning time management skills, study techniques, organizational skills, and test-taking strategies to strengthen their performance in the classroom. PREREQUISITE: None
Title:
ESOL 6th
17990300
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course is designed for the student who has a primary language other than English, and is not proficient in listening, speaking, reading, writing, or comprehension in the English speaking classroom. Instruction will be provided in the areas of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and comprehension to assist students in classrooms where English is the language of instruction. Students will receive skills to aid in the transition to all academic areas, as well as help in the preparation for middle school formal tests. Limited English proficiency should be determined by an approved language assessment instrument. PREREQUISITE: Guidance Placement
Title:
Study Topics 6th
17990400
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
This course focuses on skills that students need to make better and more efficient use of study time. Students will actively engage in learning time management skills, study techniques, organizational skills, and test-taking strategies to strengthen their performance in the classroom. PREREQUISITE: None
Title:
Broadcast Journ 6th
17992100
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6
In this course, students study journalism in a television broadcast setting. Study includes review of principles of journalism, writing, camera technique, research and interviewing, culminating in regular production of actual programming for in-school television and community viewing. PREREQUISITE: Teacher Recommendation
Title:
Service Learning
27993900
Course Number:
Unit Credit:
0
Grade Level:
6 - 8
Service Learning is designed for participants to learn and develop through active participation in thoughtfully organized service experiences that meet community needs through a collaboration between the school and community. It provides students with opportunities to use newly acquired skills and knowledge in real-life situations in their own communities. The course emphasizes essential life skills such as effective communication, problem solving, goal setting, and teamwork. Students will address real-life problems and make meaningful contributions to the school and community. The emphasis will be on planning, serving, and evaluating. PREREQUISITE: None