Art:

Students will explore different art materials to create 2D and 3D works of art. Students will learn and apply the Elements of Art and different techniques to their art. Students will compete in local and district art contests. Materials are provided but may require purchasing specific art materials if necessary.

Choir:

Students will have the opportunity to sing, read music, and perform as groups or in solos. Students will also learn to sing different types of music, from classical to movie tunes to radio favorites. Choir also offers numerous performances throughout the year.

Guitar:

Create an enhanced appreciation for music through playing the guitar. Students will learn how to read music notation, chord symbols, and tablature. Students will also gain a better understanding of many different musical genres, including classical, flamenco, blues, jazz, rock, and pop music.

Piano:

This course is designed for students who wish to develop basic playing skills or expand on their existing skills. Time in class will be spent both on and off the keyboards. While playing, students will be working individually and in small groups to master the techniques of playing and to learn pieces. There will also be time spent in group instruction on musical notation and theory.

Orchestra:

Students will perform both Classical and Popular music in small and large group ensembles. Orchestra performs in concerts, regionals, and solo and ensemble competitions. Students will perform exciting music from many different time frames. Instrument choices for this class include: Violin, Viola, Cello, and Bass.

Band:

Students will learn to play a band instrument and read music. Students will perform in both small group ensemble projects and as a large group. They will also perform in concerts, regionals, and solo and ensemble competitions. Instrument choices for this class include: Flute Oboe Clarinet Bassoon Trumpet Trombone Baritone Tuba Alto Tenor Saxophone Percussion

** Drum line opportunities for 2nd and 3rd year players

AVID (Advancement Via Individual Determination):

A program designed to help students develop the skills they need to be successful in college. The program places special emphasis on growing writing, critical thinking, teamwork, organization, time management, study and reading skills.

Spanish I:

Students will develop communication skills, such as listening, speaking, reading, and writing by using knowledge of the language, including grammar and learning strategies. High school credit upon successful completion.

Spanish II:

(Prerequisite - Spanish I)

Students will learn about historical events in Latin America and be exposed to aspects of its culture as well as its traditions. In addition, students will be reading different genre of Hispanic literature that will reinforce their learning of literary elements. High school credit upon successful completion.

Gateway to Technology:

(6th Grade only)

Green Architecture - Today’s students have grown up in an age of “green” choices. In this unit, students learn how to apply this concept to the fields of architecture and construction by exploring dimensioning, measuring, and architectural sustainability as they design affordable housing units using Autodesk’s 3D architectural design software. High school credit upon successful completion.

Medical Detectives- Students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they analyze genetic testing results to diagnose disease and study DNA evidence found at a “crime scene.” They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs, investigate how to measure and interpret vital signs, and learn how the systems of the human body work together to maintain health. High school credit upon successful completion.

Principals on Applied Engineering:

(7th Grade only)

Animation and Robotics - Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics. They learn about mechanical systems, energy transfer, machine automation and computer control systems. Students use a robust robotics platform to design, build, and program a solution to solve an existing problem. High school credit upon completion.

Design and Modeling - In this unit, students begin to recognize the value of an engineering notebook to document and capture their ideas. They are introduced to and use the design process to solve problems and understand the influence that creative and innovative design has on our lives. Students use industry standard 3D modeling software to create a virtual image of their designs and produce a portfolio to showcase their creative solutions. High school credit upon successful completion.

Principles of Information Technology:

(8th Grade only)

Computer Science and Innovator and App Creator - Students will learn about programming for the physical world by blending hardware design and software development, allowing students to discover computer science concepts and skills by creating personally relevant, tangible, and shareable projects.

Desert Wind School

Student Programs

Desert Wind

Gifted & Talented Program

Middle School Electives

Honors Classes