General Electives
General Electives
Grade 7 & 8 SCHOOL PUBLICATIONS (Eagle Tech)
Course Code 11104X10SP (YEAR COURSE)
This course provides opportunities for students to create, design, and produce the school’s yearbook; learn publishing tools; utilize publishing skills; refine revisiting editing skills; work under established deadlines; and create using various software. Requirements for class membership are as follows: fill out an application, be interviewed by the adviser, obtain three recommendations (one of which is the present English teacher), and possess a B or better in English. Fee: $10.
GRADE 6 EXPLORING THE WORLD OF STEM
Course Code 23993X06ES (SEMESTER COURSE)
In this introductory STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) course, students will engage in hands-on experiments, solve real-world problems, and learn to think critically and collaboratively. They will explore various scientific concepts, such as the laws of motion and the principles of energy, while also diving into the world of technology by working with coding and robotics. Engineering challenges will inspire students to design and build their own projects, fostering innovation and teamwork. Finally, they will learn about the importance of mathematics in everyday life and how it connects to other STEM fields. This course aims to ignite students' passion for STEM and equip them with the skills they need to succeed in an increasingly technological world.
GRADE 6 SPEECH & DEBATE
Course Code 23993X06SD (SEMESTER COURSE)
Students will participate in activities that prepare them to speak effectively. Students will gain confidence, poise, and self-esteem. This course will include practice in vocal skills, organization, persuasion, and argument. Activities may include informative and persuasive speeches, readings from literature, and an introduction to debate
GRADE 6 METEOROLOGY
Course Code 22994X1001
This introductory meteorology elective gives students a foundation in understanding weather and Earth’s atmosphere. Students will explore how weather forms, learn to identify common weather patterns, and investigate topics such as clouds, temperature, wind, precipitation, and severe weather. Through hands-on activities, simple experiments, data collection, and real-world examples, students will practice observing, predicting, and explaining weather conditions. This course builds scientific curiosity, strengthens critical thinking skills, and helps students connect daily weather experiences to basic atmospheric science.
GRADE 8 STUDENT AIDE
Course Code 22051X10SA (SEMESTER COURSE)
Students will serve Athens Middle School and the faculty through an aide internship program housed in the media center. Teachers Approval Via Application Process
GRADE 7 or 8 COMPUTER SCIENCE DISCOVERIES
Course Code 10012G0608 (SEMESTER COURSE)
The course takes a wide lens on computer science by covering topics such as programming, physical computing, HTML/CSS, and data. Students are empowered to create authentic artifacts and engage with CS as a medium for creativity, communication, problem-solving, and fun.
GRADE 8 CAREER EXPLORATIONS
Course Code 23993X0608CT (SEMESTER COURSE)
Students will discover various career paths, the skills needed to succeed in them, and the education required for the chosen career. Through engaging activities, projects, and discussions, students will learn about different professions, understand the importance of education and training, and explore their own interests and strengths. They will have opportunities to meet guest speakers from various fields, participate in hands-on activities, explore the financial planning involved, and create a personal career plan that reflects their aspirations. By the end of the course, students will gain valuable insights into the world of work, helping them make informed decisions about their future educational and career choices.
GRADE 8 DIGITAL PUBLISHING TOOLS
Course Code 11153G0608
Students will learn the fundamental concepts of word processing, spreadsheets and presentation software through a variety of software applications. The students will explore basic design concepts that will be utilized when creating a personalized digital portfolio that showcases their academic work. Students will increase their computer competency and keyboarding skills for composing and creatively expressing ideas digitally. Digital citizenship concepts and skills will be taught throughout the class.
GRADE 7/8 DESIGN AND MODELING (PLTW)
Course Code 21007G0708 (SEMESTER COURSE)
A course that uses solid modeling as part of the design process. Students learn sketching techniques; use descriptive geometry as a component of design, measurement, and computer modeling; develop ideas, create models, test and evaluate design ideas, and communicate solutions. There is no fee for Design and Modeling; however, students may join the AMS Technology Student Association with a $20 fee.
GRADE 7/8 AUTOMATION AND ROBOTICS (PLTW)
Course Code 21009G0708 (SEMESTER COURSE)
A course that provides opportunities for students to trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics. Emphasis is placed on 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. Automation and Robotics requires a $20 membership fee to the AMS Technology Student Association. This fee covers both the state and national dues for this Career Tech Student Organization. Design and Modeling are prerequisites.
GRADE 8 MEDICAL DETECTIVES (PLTW)
Course Code 14001G0608 (SEMESTER COURSE)
Medical Detectives (MD) explores the biomedical sciences through hands-on projects and labs that require students to solve a variety of medical mysteries. Students investigate medical careers, vital signs, diagnosis and treatment of diseases, as well as human body systems such as the nervous system. Genetic testing for hereditary diseases and DNA crime scene analysis put the students in the place of real-life medical detectives. There is no fee for Medical Detectives; however, students may join the AMS Technology Student Association with a $20 fee.