New Middle School Electives Offered

2D Studio Art (This course can be repeated.)

Students will expand on foundational art skills through drawing, painting, printmaking, collage, and mix media projects. Students develop problem-solving, composition, and craftsmanship skills while strengthening personal expression and visual communication. Art history is incorporated throughout the course to help students make connections with their artwork and the world around them.

3D Studio Art (This course can be repeated, however first-time students will be prioritized.)

Students will explore sculpture, ceramics, and mixed-media construction techniques using materials such as paper, wood, metal, plaster, clay and fibers. Through hands-on projects, students develop creativity, craftsmanship, and problem-solving skills, and an understanding of form, texture, and spatial design. Students will also receive an introduction to the pottery wheel.

Acting (This course can be repeated)

This course is ideal for a student looking to expand their acting skills. Students will dive into performance techniques, different acting styles, and perform solo and partner scenes. Emphasis will be placed on script analysis and performance qualities. Students will be exposed to historical acting movements and types of performance. Students select partner scenes and monologues to perform from classic and contemporary plays. Students will have an opportunity to study Shakespeare and Musical Theatre styles. Students will create character studies and learn how to mark a script. This course will also cover audience etiquette, presentation skills and basic improvisation.

Computer Programming (This course cannot be repeated.)

Students will explore the exciting world of technology through hands-on activities and projects. They will learn the basics of programming using block-based and text-based coding, design and build their own interactive programs, and understand the importance of digital privacy and cybersecurity. Students will also discuss the impact of technology on society and make ethical considerations. This course will occur at the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space, not on Barstow’s main campus.

Debate (This course can be repeated.)

What do Oprah Winfrey, John F. Kennedy, and former Senate Majority Leader Dr. Bill Frist have in common? Debate. Each of them competed on their school’s debate team and experienced the thrill of an activity that blends the excitement of competition with the invaluable skills of research, public speaking, and organization. In this class, students will refine their argumentation, research, and speaking abilities before showcasing them at local debate tournaments. If you’re ready for a challenge, the world of competitive debate awaits you—from middle school through college. It all starts here.

 

Digital Video (This course can be repeated, however first-time students will be prioritized.)

The purpose of this class is to write, film, edit and produce programming to be viewed as streaming video on the BTVN website. Students will create videos highlighting Middle School activities at Barstow, providing updates for the Barstow community to enjoy. Documentary, public service announcements, news reports, and music videos are just some of the topics that will be taught. A strong interest in broadcast journalism and/or video editing is important to succeed in this class.

Makers (This course can be repeated, however first-time students will be prioritized.)

This class combines all aspects of STEAM to design and create in a one-of-a-kind, project-based class guaranteed to inspire! Projects involve learning a variety of machines and fabrication processes.  For example, basic woodworking, 3D printing and computer-aided design, circuitry and microcomputing, and more! These real world challenges will teach you how to use the tools and technology to create the cool things you can imagine. This course will occur at the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space, not on Barstow’s main campus.

Money Management (This course cannot be repeated.)

If you want to get rich quick then you will want to join our group! We will be playing the Stock Market Game – investing $100,000 and watching it grow (or shrink) over ten weeks. We will choose a career and learn how to budget our income to match our expenses. We will simulate “the real world” through research and games. So “get a leg up” on your dreams! Learn how to earn, invest, budget and spend your money!

Robotics (This course cannot be repeated.)

In this class, students will design and build robots to compete in high energy and exciting robotics competitions within the classroom. Students will learn collaboration skills while working with a team on complex engineering projects. Through robotics, students will gain applied experience in physics, mathematics, computer programming, electronics, design and construction and leadership in a format that mixes the excitement of competition with real world applications of technology. This program uses the VEX robotics platform to teach students in a guided way at first. Then, as the course progresses and the students gain skills, they are given more autonomy to design and build in their own unique way. This course will occur at the Dan & Cassidy Towriss IDEA Space, not on Barstow’s main campus.

Sports Analytics (This course cannot be repeated.)

This class is for students who love sports and want to explore how data, statistics, and strategy shape the games they watch and play. Students will learn how teams and analysts use numbers to evaluate athletes, predict outcomes, and make decisions across a variety of sports including basketball, soccer, football, baseball, and more. Students will collect and analyze real sports data, debate strategy decisions, and create projects that combine athletics, math, and critical thinking.

Sustainable Living and Garden Explorations (This course cannot be repeated.)

This class invites middle-school students to explore how sustainability, agriculture, energy use, and environmental stewardship shape the world around them. Through hands-on projects, outdoor investigations, and collaborative learning experiences, students will:

Field investigations, teamwork, and project-based assessments emphasize problem solving, scientific inquiry, and environmental responsibility. By the end of the course, students will have a deeper understanding of sustainable living practices and the knowledge and skills to make positive impacts in their communities and environment.

Yoga (This course can be repeated.)

Schedule a regular time to disconnect and relax during your school day! In this class, students will learn basic yoga postures (asanas), breathing techniques, and relaxation methods, with an emphasis on self-awareness, mindfulness and stress management to enhance their overall well-being. The course will also include games with asanas as well as activities to learn about human anatomy through basic asanas.