KASTNER INTERMEDIATE ELECTIVE DESCRIPTIONS
 2023-2024

Please review the options below carefully with your family.  After reviewing all of your options please select 3 electives in order (1st choice, 2nd choice, & 3rd choice) and enter the corresponding course request electronically via student connect).  If your elective selections require an application, letter of recommendation, or try-out process; placement in these courses is based upon completing the correct paperwork and being selected by the advisor or coach (you are not guaranteed placement as application electives are highly competitive). 

YEAR-LONG ELECTIVE SELECTIONS
The following electives students will take for the entire school year. If students register for 2 yearlong electives, they will be required to enroll in Zero Period PE (starts at 7:20 am, M-Th) or Lunch Time PE (during lunch 5 days a week with 10mins left to eat lunch). Students will not be eligible to take Zero Period PE or Lunch Time PE unless they are in 2 yearlong electives. 

Advanced Art (8th Grade Only)                                                                                 Course Code: 70055
Pre-Requisite:  Approval from Art Teacher
This course is an expansion on the artistic challenges that have already been introduced to students who have completed the Art elective class. Students will expand on their abilities and push the limits of their talents, building confidence in their ability and technique.

Percussion		                  Course Code: 80068
Percussion class is for students who play or wish to learn to play percussion instruments.  Some students will be selected to participate in one of our concert bands and/or a jazz band(s) for additional performances throughout the year.  ALL percussion students are encouraged to audition for “Kastner Thunder Percussion” in the Fall and our competitive (Varsity Level) Kastner Winter Percussion “KWP” in the Winter. Percussion is a year-long course/activity. If selected for “Kastner Thunder Percussion” and/or Kastner Winter Percussion “KWP” there will be additional weekly after school rehearsals, which are mandatory to attend. Students in interested in percussion should indicate that on the survey that will come out after registration. 

Concert Band / Intermediate Band / Symphonic Band                                            Course Code: 80051
Band is for students who play, or would like to learn how to play, a brass, woodwind instrument, or percussion instrument.  We have three concert bands at Kastner.  Symphonic Band is our advanced group and is mostly 8th graders. Intermediate Band is our intermediate group and is a combination of 7th and 8th graders.  Concert Band is our beginning to intermediate group and is mostly 7th graders.  There is an audition process that will take place at students’ elementary feeder schools to determine which band, or bands, you will be placed in.  Each child will be placed into one or more of our bands. All band classes are yearlong courses and do have concerts.  

String Orchestra / Chamber Orchestra		               Course Code: 80059
Orchestra is for students who play or would like to learn how to play, a string instrument:  Violin, Viola, Cello, or String Bass.  Chamber Orchestra is our advanced group and consists of mostly 8th graders. String Orchestra is our intermediate group and consists of both 7th and 8th graders. String Orchestra is open to any student who would like to learn how to play a string instrument regardless of skill level or experience. There is an audition process that will take place at students’ elementary feeder schools to determine which strings class you will be in. All orchestra classes are yearlong courses and do have concerts. 

Jazz Band I/Jazz Band II	             Course Code: 80058.0	     
Pre-Requisite:  Enrolled concurrently in another instrumental music class.
Jazz Band is open to all students who play, or wish to play, a traditional jazz instrument. We have two jazz bands at Kastner. Jazz Band I is our advanced group and is mostly 8th graders. Jazz Band II is our intermediate group and is a combination of 7th and 8th graders. Students must be concurrently enrolled in another instrumental music class at Kastner in order to participate in Jazz Band at Kastner. Due to the requirement for participation in two ensembles at Kastner (Jazz plus one other), this course also will require students to enroll in Zero Period PE or Lunch Time PE.  All Jazz Band classes are yearlong courses and do have concerts. There will be an audition for any students interested in joining Jazz Band I, students will be notified following auditions if they have been selected to be in Jazz I or Jazz II.  

Colorguard                                                                                                               Course Code: 11005	
Colorguard members participate in two dance recitals during the year and all colorguard members participate in the competitive winter guard during the second semester. Colorguard is also part of any parades in which the Kastner bands participate, and they will also perform at the CUSD Band Night.   There will be a try-out day for students interested in joining colorguard, students will be notified following try-outs if they have been selected to be on the team. There are after-school and weekend practices, as well as performances which are all mandatory to attend. This is a yearlong course.  

Soprano-Alto Choir			               Course Code: 80064
This course provides the Soprano and Alto female voices the opportunity to sing and perform choral music in school and at community concerts. Special attention is given to the fundamentals of voice production, general music knowledge, and the development of musicianship in ensemble singing. It will focus on daily rehearsal procedures and song literature specific to the female voice. Students will also have travel opportunities to local festivals, workshops, and an optional end of the year incentive choir trip.  There is an audition process that will take place at students’ elementary feeder schools to determine which choir you will be placed in.  Each child will be placed into one of our choirs if you are interested in joining. All choral classes are yearlong courses and do have concerts. 

Tenor and Bass Choir                                                                                                  Course Code: 80053
This is a progressive course that provides the Tenor and Bass voices the opportunity to sing and perform choral music in school and at community concerts. Special attention is given to the fundamentals of voice production, general music knowledge, and the development of the musicianship in ensemble singing. It will focus on daily rehearsal procedures and song literature specific to lower voices. Students will also have travel opportunities to local festivals, workshops, and an optional end of the year incentive choir trip.  There is an audition process that will take place at students’ elementary feeder schools to determine which choir you will be placed in.  Each child will be placed into one of our choirs if you are interested in joining.  All choral classes are yearlong courses and do have concerts. 

Audition ONLY Choirs- Concert/Chamber/Jazz Choirs		     
Pre-Requisite:  Audition required (Date/Time TBA) & prior choral class preferred.
These Choirs are for the highly motivated and musically talented students who can perform at the highest level of proficiency. It will prepare students for advancement to other performing groups at the high school level. These ensembles will have multiple competitions, performances, and travel opportunities in and out of school time and will represent Kastner Intermediate to the highest caliber out in the community. Students will also have the option to participate in an end of the year incentive choir trip.  There is an audition process that will take place at students’ elementary feeder schools to determine which of these auditions only choirs you will be placed in. All choral classes are yearlong courses and do have concerts as well as after school practice which are mandatory to attend.  

Intermediate Drama		                  Course Code: 80056
Intermediate Drama is a standards-based year-long theatre arts class designed to create well-rounded citizens. It is a fun class for students who want to develop leadership skills, build self-confidence, learn how to solve problems, build team-working skills, and expand their creativity. Students in Intermediate Drama will have opportunities to perform memorized scenes (including a night of short scenes in the spring), and develop their own improvised scenes, but this will only be one aspect of the course. The academic focus is a more in-depth knowledge of all theatrical skills and subject matter, based on the CA Visual and Performing Arts Standards.

Advanced Drama	                                                                                                Course Code: 80050
Pre-Requisite:  Approval from the Drama Director and Previously Enrolled in Drama
Advanced Drama is a standards-based year-long theatre arts class designed to build on and delve deeper into concepts taught in previous drama courses (like performing memorized scenes, developing improvised scenes, and characters). This class will venture into technical theatre elements and show production as well as further general knowledge of all theatrical skills and subject matter, based on the CA Visual and Performing Arts Standards. This is a performance-based class. We will also work toward a class production or an evening of scenes which may require an after-school rehearsal or two. Theatre arts classes are designed to create well-rounded citizens. They are fun classes for students who want to develop leadership skills, build self-confidence, learn how to solve problems, build team-working skills, and expand their creativity. 

Computer Science Discoveries                                                                                    Course Code: 4I005
This course is a prerequisite for 8th Grade Robotics
This course is an introductory computer science course that empowers students to create authentic artifacts and engage with computer science as a medium for creativity, communication, problem-solving, and fun.  It is an accessible and engaging course for all students, regardless of background or prior experience.  The course focuses on the skills that enable students to create and express themselves in a variety of contexts and media. Whether they are developing their own website, designing an app, building a game, or creating a physical computing device, students bring their ideas to life.

Spanish I (Need a Strong GPA to be Selected) 	                                                         Course Code: 98811
Spanish I is an introduction to the Spanish language. Vocabulary and grammatical structures will be presented through thematic units with an emphasis on oral, listening, reading, and written expressions. Students will develop an appreciation for Hispanic culture, and its influence throughout the world. Students who complete this course with 85% or higher and are passing History, English, Math, and Science with A’s and B’s can go on to Spanish II.

                           

                           The following electives students will take for the entire school year.
They also require an application in order to register and are very competitive; NOT Guaranteed.

Yearbook/Journalism		                                                                                                Course Code: 00056 
Pre-Requisite: Application (google form) required to register. 
This course is open to students who are interested in working on the school yearbook.  The student develops skills in photography, layout, editing, and production experience.  This course also is for students who are interested in creating the school newspaper.  Students learn the basics of newspaper writing and the types of articles newspapers contain.  Students generate the topics for the stories/articles they will write.  Computer and camera knowledge are helpful.  There are a limited number of spots available in this course so all applications will be reviewed by course advisors. 

Leadership		                  Course Code: 00054
Pre-Requisite:  Application (google form) required to register.
Leadership is designed to allow students to participate in the planning and execution of a variety of school functions and activities. This course is designed to strengthen the Character Counts! program at Kastner by providing leadership opportunities for students that include school service, school/community involvement, goal setting, communication building, problem-solving applications, and creating an understanding and appreciation for diversity within our school community.  COMMUNITY SERVICE HOURS ARE REQUIRED OUTSIDE OF THE COURSE.  There are a limited number of spots available in this course so all applications will be reviewed by course advisors. 

Video Production		                   Course Code: 7i000
Pre-Requisite:  Application (google form) required to register.
Throughout this course, students will be utilizing critical thinking and interpersonal skills to develop and produce video-based projects. Students will be supporting school wide goals and experiences. Leadership Media students will gain skills in video editing using video editing software, as well as develop skills related to sound and lightning. These students will produce, direct, and broadcast a variety of school-based videos. There are a limited number of spots available in this course so all applications will be reviewed by course advisors. 

Peer Counseling		                  Course Code: 00064         
Pre-Requisite:  Application (google form) required to register.
The Kastner Peer Counseling Class is designed to teach basic skills that enhance positive attitudes toward self and provide techniques that can be used to help other students build their interpersonal skills. Peer counselors are caring and concerned students, who have an empathetic heart and a strong desire to help others.  Peer counseling is based on the premise that effectively trained and motivated young people can positively influence the attitudes and behaviors of their peers while helping them to reduce stress and/or resolve problems. Selected students must be mature and responsible, due to confidentiality issues. Curriculum topics include self-awareness, communication skills, values clarification, relationships, mental health issues including suicide prevention, family issues, and social problems.  There are a limited number of spots available in this course so all applications will be reviewed by course advisors and students will be notified whether or not they have been selected for the course.    

Academic Assistant (8th Grade Only) 	                                                                       Course Code: 00050   
Pre-Requisite:  Application required to register (Grades, Attendance & Behavior are Reviewed) 
Students enrolled as a Teacher Assistant can be assigned to a classroom teacher or administrative office. Students will work with the teacher or office to complete tasks and assignments. At the end of the semester, students will earn a “P” pass or “F” fail. They will not receive a letter grade for this course.

AVID- Advancement Via Individual Determination 		               Course Code: 00075
Pre-Requisite: Application (google form) required to register. 
The Kastner AVID elective is designed to increase student learning, performance, motivation, and organization and prepare students to achieve college and career readiness.  In AVID, students will be provided with academic instruction and other support to prepare them for college success and career readiness. They will also learn coping skills, organization, study skills, motivation, and career awareness. There are a limited number of spots available in this course so all applications will be reviewed by course advisors and students will be notified whether they have been selected for the course.     

Robotics (8th Grade ONLY)	                                                                                        Course Code: 5I001 
Pre-Requisite: Taken Computer Science/Computer Applications & Application required to register.
This course is designed for students who are interested in the FLL (First Lego League) and computer programing.  This course will incorporate the study and programming of robots, design of Lego robots, programming of robots, and robotics competitions.   Participating in this course will offer students an opportunity to try out for our competitive robotics team.  There are a limited number of spots available in this course so all applications will be reviewed by course advisors and students will be notified whether they have been selected for the course.     

Collaborative Mentoring (8th Grade Only)	                                                                Course Code: 00076 
Pre-Requisite:  Application required to register (google form).
This course is designed for students who desire to work with students with special needs. These general education students are what we refer to as Mentors. Mentor students will work one on one with a student with special needs in elective courses. Mentors will develop leadership skills, and learn problem solving skills, and behavior management techniques. Mentor students will assist their partners with projects in their elective course. 

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
All students will be enrolled in a Physical Education Class. Most students will have a general PE Class course code 10050 unless specifically requesting and qualifying for one of the PE classes below.  
Physical Education –Zero Period			Course Code: 10050.0
Pre-Requisite:  In order to be accepted into Zero Period PE, students must be enrolled in two yearlong elective classes. Students will be expected to be dressed out and ready to participate, M-Th. Zero Period PE begins at 7:20 am and there is No bus available for transportation at that time. This course fulfills a student’s PE requirement.     

Physical Education –Lunchtime PE 			Course Code: 10050.8
Pre-Requisite:  In order to be accepted into Lunchtime PE, students must be enrolled in two yearlong elective classes. Students will be expected to be dressed out and ready to participate, M-F. Lunchtime PE takes place during the student’s lunchtime, with the last 10 mins of lunch for them to eat. This course fulfills a student’s PE requirement.     

Physical Education –PE Strength and Conditioning 			   Course Code: 11016
Students in PE Strength and Conditioning will have an opportunity to improve muscular strength and endurance. Students will study the muscular and cardiovascular systems, nutritional aspects of fitness, and assess body composition. Students will still complete PE fitness testing, run the mile, and participate in PE units.

Physical Education –PE Dance (Cheer PE)			   Course Code: 10002
There will be a try-out day for students interested in joining Kastner’s Pep and Cheer Program. Students will be notified following tryouts if they have been selected to be on the team. Students selected for the Kastner Pep and Cheer team will be enrolled in PE Dance (Cheer PE). Students will still complete PE fitness testing, run the mile, and participate in PE units. Students who make the pep and cheer teams will have additional outside of school practices and performances which are all mandatory to attend. This is a yearlong course.  

Physical Education –Football/Basketball PE 			Course Code: 10050.7
Students in Football/Basketball PE will still complete PE fitness testing, run the mile, and participate in PE units, however, in addition, will have an opportunity to focus on Football/Basketball specific drills, and is intended for students who will be playing Football or Basketball at Kastner Intermediate School.

Physical Education –X-Country 			Course Code: 10050.6
Students in X-Country PE will still complete PE fitness testing, run the mile, and participate in PE units, however, in addition, will have an opportunity to focus on X-Country-specific drills, and is intended for students who will be running X-Country for Kastner Intermediate School.

  

                                                          

                                                    SEMESTER LONG ELECTIVES
Each of the following classes is offered for one semester only (half of the school year).  Once the 1st semester concludes, students will be given a 2nd semester class.  Due to electives being offered in different periods, we cannot guarantee which 2nd semester elective they will be given. Any elective from the list below is a possibility depending on enrollment and teacher availability.

Beginning Drama		            Course Code: 00052SM  
Beginning Drama is a standards-based semester long theatre arts class designed to create well-rounded citizens. It is a fun class for students who want to develop leadership skills, build self-confidence, learn how to solve problems, build team-working skills, and expand their creativity. Students in Beginning Drama will have opportunities to perform memorized scenes, and develop their own improvised scenes, but this will only be one aspect of the course. The academic focus is general knowledge of all theatrical skills and subject matter, based on the CA Visual and Performing Arts Standards.

Film Studies                                                                                                                  Course Code: 7i001  
This is a semester course. While film is commonly seen merely as a form of entertainment, it does whether viewers are fully aware or not, shape and reflect the way people think. Our goal in Film Studies is to watch movies with multiple levels of awareness so that students can develop an appreciation for film as a storytelling art form and analyze what messages are being conveyed in what they watch. Through watching, analyzing, and critiquing classic and contemporary films, students will explore how film functions in our society as both art and literature. This course will study the language, formal elements, and development of film while establishing a deeper understanding of the societal impact of the film.

Art                                                                                                                                 Course Code: 70053  
Art introduces students to a variety of drawing and painting techniques centered around the elements of art. It is designed to provide each student with the opportunity to attain skills to express him/herself creatively while introducing them to the artistic world. 

Ceramics	                                                                                                Course Code: 70054  
This course provides a beginning foundation in the basic techniques for creative ceramic-making. Emphasis is placed upon hand-building techniques that provide a solid foundation for ceramic design and craftsmanship.

Interactive Animation & Games                                                                               Course Code: 0i004	 
In the Interactive Animations and Games class, students learn to code in Game Lab as they create programmatic images, animations, interactive art, and games. String off with simple, primitive shapes and building up to more sophisticated sprite-based games, students become familiar with the programming concepts and the design process computer scientists use daily. They then learn how these simpler constructs can be combined to create more complex programs. In the final projects, students develop a personalized, interactive program. Along the way, they practice design, testing and iteration, as they come to see that failure and debugging are an expected and valuable part of the programming process.

Music Appreciation/ Technology                                                                              Course Code: 8i000	 
Music Appreciation/Music Technology has the purpose of increasing a student’s musical awareness and giving students the tools to actively listen to, discuss, and critique various styles of music. The first portion of the course will focus on learning the basic elements of music: Melody, Rhythm, Harmony, Form, Texture, Tempo, and Dynamics. Using appropriate music vocabulary, students will study and discuss a variety of musical genres, including Classical, Jazz, Rock, Musicals, and World Music. Additionally, this course will delve into technology and how it relates to music in the 21st century.

                                                    INTERVENTION ELECTIVES 
Students may select one of the above electives however based on grades, test scores, teacher/counselor recommendation, and student need, the student may be placed in an Intervention Class. Students may need to take an English Language Development, a Reading Strategies Class, a Math Strategies Class, a Study Strategies Class, or Academic Seminar.