7th Grade Elective Courses

HMS Art is a combination of graphic and visual art techniques. Students will experience hands-on projects and (visual) art-making through illustration and animation (graphic). This course is designed to help improve students’ basic art skills, such as drawing, painting, sculpting, designing artwork using various media and techniques, developing students’ creativity and self-expression, and recognizing and using art elements and design principles.

This sculpture course introduces students to the exciting world of three-dimensional art through hands-on building and creative problem-solving. Students will explore form and structure while designing and constructing original sculptures using a wide range of repurposed and everyday materials. The course encourages learners to see artistic potential in discarded items such as cardboard, plastic, wire, fabric, and found objects. Through guided projects and open-ended challenges, students will develop technical skills in assembling, joining, and shaping materials, while also strengthening their ability to plan, experiment, and revise their ideas. 

Career Exploration is an introductory course designed to assist students in discovering (a) personal strengths and abilities, (b) understanding opportunities available to them in different career areas, and (c) practicing skills necessary to excel in the workforce and postsecondary learning. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will know and exhibit soft skills (e.g. teamwork, creative thinking, and problem-solving), as well as more technical skills (e.g. resume building and written communications) related to career exploration and experience. Students will also learn about and be exposed to existing CTE pathways and elective focus options within a high school setting and how to successfully transition into a district-recognized career academy or program of study.

Step into the spotlight with Semester Choir! This exciting class is the perfect place for any students who love to sing, perform, and have fun exploring the world of music. No experience necessary. Students will build confidence and develop their voices through vocal exercises, harmony, movement, acting games, and creative performance activities. We’ll explore a variety of musical styles while learning stage presence and teamwork in a fun, supportive environment. The semester will culminate in a performance during the end-of-semester choir concert. No after-school commitments are required other than the final concert. Sign up today!

This semester-long course invites 7th graders to sharpen their reasoning and analytical skills through puzzles, debates, and real-world dilemmas. Students will explore how to evaluate arguments, identify logical fallacies, and make well-reasoned decisions. Topics include reasoning, human virtue, problem-solving strategies, and the art of persuasive discussion. Through hands-on activities, small group challenges, and class debates, students will learn to think clearly, question critically, and communicate effectively. By the end of the course, students will be better equipped to approach challenges thoughtfully and respectfully—both in school and beyond.

The purpose of this course is to analyze the current issues in the world by examining both the origin of the conflict and the impact it has created or will create. Students in the course will engage in class discussions to further enrich their understanding of global dynamics. Moreover, students will be prompted to find out-of-the-box solutions to help solve global problems. One example is Elvis Presley’s impact on the civil rights movement, of which students will participate in a field trip to Graceland.  The course culminates with an end-of-semester project where students undergo a mock election process.  This course will reinforce students’ knowledge of history, as well as written, oratory, and logical skills.

Hey there, future detectives! Get ready for an exciting adventure into the world of forensic science. In this class, you'll learn how real scientists solve crimes using cool techniques like fingerprint analysis, handwriting/forgery analysis, trace evidence, and more. We'll explore everything from examining mock crime scenes to analyzing evidence.  You'll be thinking like a true crime scene investigator! You'll develop important skills like deductive reasoning and analytical thinking while doing hands-on experiments. So put on your detective hat and get ready to uncover the secrets of forensic science!

HMS Leads Course will provide opportunities for willing student leaders to strengthen and expand their leadership skills to positively impact their lives, school, house, and community. HMS Leads Course will empower students to become public speakers, lead school and community events, serve others, and encourage the development of a positive and effective school climate/culture.

This course is designed to provide a grade-level appropriate Spanish language and culture introduction. Students will learn the basics of communicating in Spanish and actively listen and practice language skills by participating in mini-conversations, question-answer, role-play, and other real-life language activities. In addition to learning the language, students will also discover Spanish culture and other Spanish-speaking countries around the world. 

This course is designed as an introduction to the French language and culture. Students will learn the basics of communicating through reading, writing, listening, and speaking in the target language. They will actively listen and practice language skills in class by participating in conversations, question-and-answer sessions, role-playing, and other real-life language activities. While learning to use the language, students will also learn about French culture and other French-speaking countries around the world. 

Multimedia and Design is a creative, hands-on environment in which students collaborate to produce media publications for Houston Middle School. Students will be introduced to cutting-edge graphic design software and professional camera equipment to learn the basics of digital storytelling, reporting, photography, and cinematography communications. Students will plan, design, and produce communications, which enables them to practice real-world deadline skills in a collaborative learning environment in which their designs, photos, and stories are published for an audience. Students will also learn an intro to marketing and running a business with our 3D printers, engravers, sticker maker, etc. This course aligns with Tennessee 6-8 Computer Science Standards through project-based collaboration, creative use of digital tools, and understanding the real-world impacts of computing and media production.

This STEM course is for middle school students to understand the relationship between STEM and innovation, as well as explore the possibilities of “What could be?” Students will learn how innovation requires creativity and leads to new discoveries and technologies that make life better for humans. For context, students will relate the majority of their coursework to the field of 3D Drafting and Printing. Students will be introduced to the process, potential, and products of 3D printing, beginning with a conceptual understanding and moving towards 3D printing with purpose.

The main focus of the 7th-grade band is to expand on the concepts introduced in the 6th-grade band. Additionally, students enrolled in this course will explore additional music concepts and learn to cultivate the techniques of playing an instrument. Upon completing this class, the students should have expanded their knowledge of their musical vocabulary and the symbol system, begun to build an awareness of the aesthetic qualities of music, and developed a more proficient technique and command over their instrument.  Students in this course will perform in four concerts a year, Solo & Ensemble, All-West auditions, and Concert Festival. Select students may be invited to participate in the Spring Trip with the 8th-grade band. This course requires a full-year commitment.  Prerequisite: 6th grade Band or current band teacher permission.

7th Grade Advanced Choir is for dedicated singers looking to take their skills to the next level! This auditioned ensemble focuses on advanced vocal techniques, harmonization, and sight-reading while exploring a wide range of musical styles. Students will perform at concerts, community events, and festivals, with opportunities to audition for the All-West Honor Choir and attend the spring trip. If you're ready for a challenge and love to perform, this is the choir for you!

The advanced art year-long course is offered to 7th graders interested in applying creative ideas with technical skills in visual and graphic arts. In this course, students will get a more detailed approach to techniques and methods of different art materials than in the standard art course. Students will have more opportunities to create using their ideas and choices. Intermediate art students will have some opportunities to participate in art competitions. This course also sets students up for success in continuing their art studies in the advanced art course (8th grade). Students interested in this course must get approval from their art teacher.

Students can choose to play the violin, viola, cello, or double bass. Students will play in an ensemble to create performances within the school and outside venues. Students will have opportunities to compete for spots in regional orchestras. In addition to playing their instruments, students will explore music theory to enable them to read, interpret, and write music. Students will also learn to critique performances and recordings and develop a knowledge of music history that connects them to the rest of the world. This course also teaches skills such as punctuality, responsibility, teamwork, and leadership that extend into the professional world. Prerequisites: Students must have previously taken one year of orchestra class or have permission from the instructor.