The outline of courses in this guide will provide students and parents with a basic description of each of the courses offered in seventh grade at Williams Intermediate School.
Careful selection of courses at registration time will help make the student's school year a successful one.
Note: Some of the information in this online course guide may be out of date. Please refer to your course guide provided at the time of course signup.
It is the policy of the Davenport Community School District not to discriminate on the basis of sex, race, national origin, creed, age, marital status, or disability in its educational programs, activities, or employment policies as required by Title VI and VII of the 1964 Civil Rights Act, Title IX of the 1972 Educational Amendments, and Section 504 of the Federal Rehabilitation Act of 1973. It is also the policy of this district that the curriculum content and instructional materials utilized reflect the cultural and racial diversity present in the United States and the variety of careers, roles, and life styles open to women as well as men in our society.
Inquiries regarding compliance with Title IX, Title VI, or Section 504 may be directed to:
Program Director of Equity
Davenport Community Schools
1606 Brady Street
Davenport, IA 52803
Telephone (563) 336-3805
or to the Director of the Iowa Civil Rights Commission, 211 East Maple Street, 2nd Floor, Des Moines, IA 50319, or to the Director of the Region VII Office of Civil Rights, Department of Education, Kansas City, Missouri.
Language Arts
M10811 / M10812 Language Arts
Language Arts is a year-long course that extends the language learning experiences of grade 7 by integrating listening, speaking, writing, reading, and viewing in the exploration of several universal themes. This course continues to include needed instruction in language skills, approaching writing as a process, journal writing, and the development of thinking strategies. In addition, students analyze and interpret literature and media, focus on expressive and expository writing--including the writing of an I-Search paper, and learn and practice formal group discussion techniques. Learning opportunities include individual and large and small group activities, teacher-directed and student-selected activities, and independent projects.
M20811 / M20821 Algebraic Thinking II
This course will cover the second half of the content form Algebraic Thinking I-A.
Prerequisite: Algebra Thinking I-A
203141 Algebra
This course uses an equation solving approach to problem solving. It moves from concrete numerical concepts to abstract concepts. It becomes the language of advanced mathematics courses. In order to take this course in 8th grade, students must have a very strong math background, teacher recommendation, and parental approval.
M17811 / M17821 Science Plus
Science Plus allows the student to experience all areas of science such as life, earth, and general science but has an emphasis on chemistry and physics or physical science. Much of the work is done in a laboratory using hands-on student activities. Student are required to pursue topics of interest through research projects including use of community, library, and technological resources.
M27811 / M27821 American Studies I
In this one year course, the student concentrates on four units of American History: (1)Exploration and Discovery, (2)Colonial America, (3)Americn Revolution, and (4)Beginnings of a New Nation (Time period: 1400's through Andrew Jackson). Unit studies include economics (American market system).
M23811 Physical Education
All students shall take an active part in the physical education program. Classes will meet two or three times per week. Students who temporarily cannot participate actively in the program must present a written excuse from a parent or a doctor. In matters of extended illness written excuse from a doctor is required. If an absence of more than six weeks is anticipated, the student will be scheduled into adaptive physical education, if possible.
Handicapped students who are unable to participate in regular P.E. class will be assigned to an adaptive (modified) physical education class.
Students are expected to have a change of clothing for participation in the vigorous physical education activities. Students are also encouraged to have warm clothing for cool weather conditions. Towels for showers are furnished and each student is encouraged to shower after every activity.
Students will participate in varied activities, such as soccer, speedball, basketball, flag football, volleyball, recreational games, tumbling, tennis, track and field, rhythmic activities, softball, wrestling, golf, and physical fitness activities.
The TAG program is designed to meet the unique needs and interests of the identified gifted and talented students.
Students who qualify for the program will have the opportunity to participate in enrichment learning opportunities. Options may vary in individual buildings. Enrichment options will include applications of critical and creative thinking skills in a variety of student self-selected learning activities. Curricular offerings may include state or national competition activities, classes emphasizing advanced course content, and/or independent study.
Students enrolled in the enrichment option will meet with the TAG a minimum of one period per week for the duration of any particular activity. Students must satisfactorily complete a minimum of two projects per year to remain in the TAG program. No grade of credit will be earned through the enrichment option.
In buildings offering an accelerated humanities or science/math class for gifted, teacher recommendation is a prerequisite for student enrollment. Students who participate in the accelerated option will be scheduled daily and receive English, science or math credit.
Advanced Art Grade 8 (M32811 M32812)
This course explores important aspects of visual arts in everyday life. It includes study and application of the Elements and Principles of Design, as well as the history of art.
Emphasis is placed on realism, abstraction, and nonobjective design as they relate to styles of art.
M02819 Computer Education - (one semester - offered both semesters)
The "touch system" is used to teach students how to use a computer keyboard efficiently. After the keyboard is learned, students will apply word processing skills to properly format letters, tables, memos and reports. Students will learn computer and internet terminology. Also database, spreadsheet, internet and some HTML applications are learned. This course is designed for any student who plans to use a computer for school or plans a career in which a computer is used. Computer Education, whether taken at the intermediate school or high school, is a prerequisite for enrollment in the following senior high courses: Business Computer Applications; Computer Programming Courses.
(Students wishing to begin a four-year sequence in German may begin in the ninth grade.)
M41881 French I
French I offers the opportunity for students to experience a new language. Class is conducted so that each student uses French orally and in reading and writing. Emphasis is placed on learning vocabulary and structure which is useful in describing situations in everyday life. French culture related to the topics of study is also introduced. Cost of the required workbook is approximately $11.00. French I is available to 7th and 8th grade students. A student must have a grade of "C" or better in Language Arts to sign up for this class.
(A material fee will be charged. Charges will vary according to project selected.)
M42007 / M42008 Practical Arts
These elective courses provide two semesters of Practical Arts, which include nine weeks of Family and Consumer Sciences and nine weeks of Industrial Technology each semester. The student may elect to take one semester or a full year during either the seventh or eight grades for a total of two semesters. Students will explore several different subject areas and develop basic skills while working with various tools, machines and materials.
M42007 Practical Arts: Exploring Foods, Child Care, Wood Fabrication, and Metal Fabrication (FWM)
Exploring Foods - The students will study the basic food groups necessary for good health and will practice introductory cooking skills. (Approx. 7 weeks)
Child Care - Students will study the basic developmental stages of young children and their care. (Approx. 7 weeks)
Wood Fabrication - Students will learn how to cut, shape, smooth, join, and finish wood to produce one or more useful, pleasing wooden items. (Approx. 4 weeks)
Metal Fabrication - Students will learn how to use tools to measure, cut, bend, solder, rivet, and otherwise fasten sheet metal and heavy metal and will form one or more small metal items. (Approx. 4 1/2 weeks)
M42008 Practical Arts: Sewing, Relationships, Drafting and Graphics, Energy and Power (SDE)
Sewing - Students will learn how to operate a sewing machine and become skillful using basic sewing equipment and terminology. Each student will construct two or more projects. Students will be required to furnish or purchase all necessary materials to complete course requirements. (Approx. 5 weeks)
Relationships - Students will study interpersonal relationships within and outside the family, with an emphasis of developing a healthy self image and improving communication skills. (Approx. 4 weeks)
Drafting and Graphic Communications - Students will learn to sketch simple objects and to make multi-view drawings. Students will also learn to use a simple printing press, make a photograph, and make a silk screen and a computer printout. (Approx. 4 1/2 weeks)
Energy and Power - Students will learn about electricity and how to make it do what they want by building a small electrical item. They will also learn about solar energy and wind energy and will take a model airplane apart to learn how gasoline engine works. (Approx. 4 1/2 weeks)
M42009 Foods and You (one semester - M42007/M42008 recommended, but not required)
This course is for every student interested in expanding basic cooking skills. Class time is devoted to the study and preparation of nutritious foods. Also included is an exploration of values, goals and resources which influence one's choices. Ways students can promote the wellness, manage stress and demonstrate self-discipline are also analyzed.
M42010 Clothing and Design (one semester - M42007/M42008 recommended, but not required)
This course is for every student interested in experiencing the joy of learning about art of sewing. Class time is devoted to the construction of today's "in fashion" projects appropriate to the interests, skills, and abilities of each student. Also included is the study out color, fabrics, and design principles. Students will be required to furnish and/or purchase all necessary materials to complete course requirements.
M11051 Blue Band
This program is a continuation for all wind and percussion players who started their training at the grade school level. The Band meets daily and, in addition, all members receive one individual lesson each week. Training includes individual instruction, marching band, concert band, ensemble training, and solo preparation. Participation includes marching events, city-wide solo and band festivals, school assemblies, elementary promotion concerts, and public concerts. The signature of the band director is required to enroll in Band.
M11091 White Band
This program is a continuation for wind and percussion players who have not quite achieved the Concert Band level. Strong emphasis is placed on improvement of tone, technique and rhythm. The band meets daily and performs during the school year at various school functions. Each student receives and individual lesson once a week. (White Band available only at Sudlow, Williams, Wood, and Walcott)
M11771 Orchestra
This program is a continuation for all string players who started their training at the grade school level. The string orchestra meets daily and all members receive one individual lesson each week. Training includes individual instruction, string orchestra, full symphonic orchestra, ensemble training, and solo preparation. Participation includes seasonal strings and full orchestra public concerts, all city solo and orchestra festivals, school assemblies and elementary promotion concerts. Even though most string players start in earlier grades, beginners are welcome at the seventh or eight grade.
M40009 Reading (S)
The purpose of this semester course is to enhance reading skills and develop a lifelong love of reading as the student reads a variety of fiction and and nonfiction materials. This thematic reading course has four major elements: 1) Group reading of teacher-selected materials; 2) lessons related to the development of specific reading strategies which will foster reading ability in content-area reading; 3) student-selected reading under the direction of the teacher; and 4) responding to reading through journals, discussion groups, and independent projects while keeping a personal reading log.
M14859 Skills for Adolescence
This course will examine skills the student needs to succeed in today's academic and social world. Students will practice important social and copying skills such as critical thinking, feelings, decision making, communication, and action. A critical component of this course is the development of self-esteem and self worth. This course meets every other day at opposite physical education.
M11811 Chorus
This course is an elective open to any eight grade students with an interest in singing in a group setting. This is a year long course that meets every other day opposite P.E. Development of four part choral singing and the continued development of proper vocal techniques are the central goals of this class. Students in this class can audition for show choir, the madrigal singers, and vocal jazz. Half of the grade is made up of rehearsal skills and the other is attendance at the required performance at the end of the semester.
(For more information on these and other extracurricular activities available at Williams, please visit our Activities page.
MUSIC
Jazz Band
This group meets before school and is open to saxophones, trumpets, trombones, percussion, piano, and electric bass players. Students must be enrolled in white or concert band.
Show Choir, Madrigal, Vocal Jazz
Show Choir, Madrigal, Vocal Jazz, and various honor choirs are open by audition for any 7th or 8th grader enrolled in choir. Some costuming requirements are necessary to be purchased. All selected students are required to attend out of school rehearsals and performances as scheduled by the director.
ATHLETICS
Practice for boys and girls who wish to participate in athletic events will be held after school. Actual times are to be announced by the coaches. A current physical examination/parent permission card must be presented to the coach by all students who which to participate in a sport. This examination must be conducted by a licensed physician. You may contact your physical education teacher for more information and physical examination forms. The sports offered for intermediate students are:
Basketball 7,8 Boys and Girls
Football 7,8
Swimming 7,8 Boys and Girls (eastside and westside)
Track 7,8 Boys and Girls
Volleyball 7,8 Girls
Wrestling 7,8
Williams School is the designated intermediate-level site for ESL intensive instruction for the Davenport Community School District. ESL intensive instruction is provided for students whose first language is not English. The goal of the program is to develop the students' skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening in English, facilitating integration into regular classrooms. Once an ESL student tests at the proficient level on the Iowa English Language Development Assessment (I-ELDA) and the Iowa Tests of Basic Skills (ITBS), the student is exited from the ESL program. The student may then return to his or her home school.
Programming is provided for students who have been evaluated by a multidisciplinary team that has determined them eligible for instructional services and has determined where those services will be provided. The decision for placement by the team is based on specific federal, state, and local criteria. Parental consent is mandatory prior to placement. Program services are available for students identified as having: a learning disability, a mental disability, a behavior disorder, a physical disability, a hearing impairment, a visual impairment, a traumatic brain or head injury, autism, deaf, blindness or a non-categorical disability. Students may be served in special or regular education classrooms at Williams or at other sites.