Our Launch courses are designed for our sixth-grade students to learn and strengthen the skills in Computer Science that are necessary for success in Middle School and to explore the various Arts. Students will rotate among all Launch courses throughout the school year.
INTRODUCTION TO STAGE PERFORMANCE
Students will explore the fundamentals of performing on stage, building confidence, and expressing themselves through theatrical arts. Through a series of engaging activities and exercises, students will learn the essentials of acting, vocal projection, and stage presence. Whether the student is a seasoned performer or stepping onto the stage for the first time, this course offers a fun and fulfilling journey into the exciting world of stage performance!
Students will explore the fundamentals of performing on stage, building confidence, and expressing themselves through theatrical arts. Through a series of engaging activities and exercises, students will learn the essentials of acting, vocal projection, and stage presence. Whether the student is a seasoned performer or stepping onto the stage for the first time, this course offers a fun and fulfilling journey into the exciting world of stage performance!
INTRODUCTION TO BAND
In this course, students will learn the fundamentals of playing a band instrument. Whether students have always dreamed of playing an instrument or are curious to try something new, this course offers the perfect opportunity to discover the joys of making music together.
MUSIC PRODUCTION
Students will learn basic music theory and chord functions. Then we will explore current popular music genres while learning about the technology used to create them. Students will learn basic introductory levels on instruments such as piano and guitar, and how to use those instruments to create melodies or Harmonic structures. Students will dive into software used by professional audio engineers and producers and learn to record, edit, and export projects in a Digital Audio Workstation. With knowledge acquired in class, students will be encouraged to collaborate with others to write, edit, and produce musical projects.
FOUNDATIONS OF ART
This class is included in the Launch Wheel for 6th grade, with the goal of acquainting students with fundamental concepts and techniques in visual art while promoting the development of Studio Habits of Mind. Through interactive activities, students explore various mediums such as drawing, painting, and sculpture, developing an understanding of the basic elements of art like line, shape, color, texture, and form. Additionally, they begin to grasp the principles of design. This class nurtures creativity, critical thinking, and self-expression, providing a solid foundation for ongoing artistic exploration in middle school.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
The emphasis in sixth grade Computer Science is placed on essential user proficiencies, including file management, Microsoft Office & keyboarding, as well as an introduction/continuation of Coding and Computational Thinking through Code.org and Scratch. Digital Citizenship, Online Safety and Cyberbullying are key topics, as well as an open discussion ‘Tech Talk’ where students share their experiences and opinions/advice about various technologies.