Welcome to our Communications Courses!
COMMUNICATION COURSES:
INTRODUCTION TO FRENCH – One quarter
INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH – One quarter
INTRODUCTION TO CHINESE – One quarter
These nine week introductory courses are designed to give middle school students beginning exposure to the study of a
foreign language, and the cultures in which it is spoken. Participation in a nine week introductory course is not a prerequisite
for enrolling in French 1, Spanish 1 or Chinese 1 in eighth or ninth grade.
CREATIVE WRITING – One quarter
Do you love to write but hate writing assignments? Do you have a creative fire burning in you but find it snuffed out by
classroom restrictions? This may be the class for you! Creative Writing is based on the writing workshop method which
stresses three things: time, ownership and response. In this exploratory class students write and conference daily with
their peers. The teacher does not assign tasks, but supports each student’s writing projects with feedback to improve
writing quality. Ideas and accomplishments are shared and developed in this creative, energetic class.
DRAMA – One quarter
Experience the excitement of creative dramatics! Enjoy skit writing and performing, set and costume work, and a group
production. As you interact with classmates in creative ways, stage directions and acting techniques are taught. This is a
wonderful class to practice getting over stage fright and learn to think on your feet.
DEBATE – One quarter
Would you like to win more arguments? Learn how to argue effectively in this introductory debate class. Students will be
introduced to proper debate procedures as well as becoming familiar with interesting topics and issues.
WORLD NEWS TODAY! – One quarter
This elective course will focus on the events of today. The intent of the course is to provide students with the basic
background and foundational information to further their understanding of the world we live in today. There will be a major
focus on studying current events (their origins and causes) and trying to come up with solutions or predicting outcomes to
those events.
WORLD WAR II – One quarter
This class will examine World War II from its underlying causes to the final victory over Japan and the decision to use the
‘A Bomb’. Students will study the three major theaters of war: Europe, Asia, and North Africa, as well as the influential and
fascinating people of this time period.
LEAD THE WAY – One quarter
If you are interested in making a difference in your world, this student government class is for you! Instruction will
incorporate leadership skills, core democratic values, service learning, and volunteerism. Students will plan and organize
activities including dances, spirit week, school and community projects, and fundraisers. Learn about the “Fish
Philosophy” at NHMS and how to develop a positive and productive attitude at school! This class will benefit students
who can work maturely outside of the classroom. Students will need to be available outside the scheduled class period for
some projects. 1) Students must be passing all academic classes and 2) submit a three paragraph essay
addressing the topics listed below in order to be considered for enrollment in this student government class.
#1: Why I want to be in this class.
#2: As a leader of this school, how I plan to contribute to a positive school culture.
#3: What my role as a school leader will be.
YEARBOOK – Two quarters
The main focus of this exploratory course will be publication of our NHMS yearbook. Page design, layout, photography,
copy writing, sale, and distribution are some of the components of yearbook publication. Students should have strong
writing skills and be able to work independently. Some time commitment outside of the scheduled class period (before
and after school) is also expected. Students must be passing all academic classes. Self discipline and a positive
behavior record are necessary to be considered for enrollment in this class.
