6th grade Electives

  • BOOK MAKING (Creative Writing): In this class students learn and practice a variety of writing tools and strategies to create their own short stories to be published in the class book (actual book). They also read a book published by students from previous years (1 semester ).
  • ​CAREER AND LIFE SKILLS: Get started on the right foot by learning study and organizational skills such as setting goals, time management, and test-taking techniques.   Students will also explore how their interests relate to various careers.  (1 Semester)
  • CARTOGRAPHY: In this class the students will study math, science and art through Cartography. They will start by drawing free hand to scale the United States of America with states and capitols and certain points of interests. They will then bridge into the art of line drawing through optical illusions to become better map makers. Next they will draw free hand to scale the worlds continents and countries with major points of interests, such as major bodies of water etc. From there they will choose a favorite continent and draw free hand to scale, this time in detail the continent with all its countries and major geographical features. The student will then choose a country within the continent and plan a 10-day itinerary tour which includes points of interest within the country, the location according to Google Maps and the cultural and historical significance this part of the tour plays in the countries' history. We will have a multicultural food presentation of the country of choice and presentation of the favorite country and map.
  • ENGINEERING DESIGN (taught by HGM teacher): Young engineers will explore the engineering design process as they work together to solve real-world problems through research, hands-on exploration, and collaboration. Each project will culminate with a technology project that presents the process and product (year-long).
  • EVENT PLANNING: This fun course is for those who like to plan events; teaches how to schedule, budget, manage, book, etc. different types of events using research and life skills/computer programs. We will also be incorporating ice breakers and team building activities (1 semester).
  • EXPLORING VIDEO PRODUCTION: Express your creativity and make your dreams a reality through the magic of filmmaking. Explore professional equipment and apps such as Premiere Pro and After Effects to bring your visions to life. Join award-winning teacher, artist, and filmmaker Jonathan Mazur (Run DMC, Public Enemy, Illumination Entertainment, Walmart, Nabisco, and the LA Kings) discovery, imagination, and self-expression (year long).
  • INTRODUCTION TO SPANISH:  Student will basic vocabulary, grammar, and conversational Spanish. This course will NOT meet A-G requirements for High School.  It is an introduction to Spanish I which is offered in 7th and 8th grade (see below).
  • INTRODUCTION TO THEATRE: The purpose of this course is to provide an opportunity for middle school theatre students to study the art of theatre, including theatre history, acting, dramatic literature, production techniques, and stage design. Students will learn improvisation techniques, stage movement, voice, and diction, pantomime, and how to create a character. Students will demonstrate their learning in all aspects of theatre through the production of scenes, short plays, student-written works and/or full productions of plays and/or musicals for school and community audiences (1 semester).
  • MONEY MATTERS: Students will explore activities that expand their knowledge of money and finance in the real world. Students will learn goal setting, budgeting, finance, and saving (1 semester).
  • ORIGAMI ART: Students will learn the history of origami in the Asian culture and be taught how to make origami characters step by step (1 semester).
  • ROBOTIC, CODING, AND ENGINEERING: In this class students can sign up to learn and practice engineering skills to solve real-world problems through interactive coding and robotics activities (2 semesters).
  • SURVIVING 6TH GRADE: This class will get students started in middle school with organizing and using their lockers, using Schoology for grades and communication, and creating a network for current 6th grades. Middle school is a new transition and this class can help students make it a smooth transition (1 semester).
  • STRINGS A & B (Beginning Strings): This is an introductory class in orchestral strings (violin, viola, cello & string bass). It is usually for 6th graders. No experience is necessary but would help (year-long).
  • TAEKWONDO Beginner Level: (No physical contact) Students will learn the basics of the Korean martial art and will gain an understanding of how to apply its tenets (courtesy, integrity, perseverance, self-control, indomitable spirit) in their daily lives through physical training, discussions, and other mindfulness activities (1 semester).
  • WINDS A & B (Beginning Winds): This is an introductory class in wind instruments (flute, clarinet, alto sax, trumpet, snare drum, bells). It is usually for 6th graders. No experience is necessary but would help (2 semesters).
  • ​WORLD MYTHOLOGY: In this course, students will learn about the types of myths and mythological characters from around the world.  Students will analyze stories learning the common elements of mythology, characteristics of heroes, the conflicts heroes face, and how ancient heroes relate to the heroes of today (1 semester).
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​7th and 8th Grade ElectiveS

  • ADVANCED BAND: Approval from instructor required. One year minimum prior playing experience required. Must be able to read music. This course is for winds and percussion only.  (Year-long course)
  • ADVANCED ORCHESTRA: Approval from instructor required. Two year minimum prior experience required. Must be able to read music. This course is for the violin, viola, cello, and string bass only.  (Year-long course)
  • ***EXPLORING ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY*** (tentative): Exploring Human Anatomy and Physiology is a laboratory-based course that investigates the structure and function of the human body and other organisms. Through dissections of organs and hands-on projects, the students will learn all the major body systems along with the impact of diseases.  One of the goals of this course is to prepare students with the skills necessary to be successful in future science classes in high school and to develop an interest in health-related careers. (Year-long course)
  • ART: In this class, students will learn a number of artistic techniques to use as instruments of self-expression and help to develop positive self-concepts. Students will be exposed to a variety of artists, artworks, techniques, and media. No prior experience required.  (1 Semester)
  • ART ADVANCED: This course is designed to provide 8th-grade students with the opportunity to utilize their imagination and personal experiences to create original artworks. Students will develop their own artistic vision and form a broader knowledge and understanding of our rich and diverse historical and cultural heritage through the study of art. Students need to be approved by art teacher.  (Year-long course)
  • BIOTECHNOLOGY: Students learn advanced techniques including genetic engineering & DNA transformation. (Year-long course)
  • CARTOON ANIMATION: Students learn how to use a variety of professional digital media applications, such as Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and Toon Boom Animation to create their own original 2D animations. This hands-on class will help you build the skills you need in the world of professional character animation.  (1 Semester)
  • DIGITAL IMAGING: Students learn how to work with Photoshop, the industry-leading application for image editing and creation, to solve real-world graphic design challenges. This hands-on course is an opportunity to unleash your creativity and acquire professional digital design skills.  (1 Semester)
  • DRAMA/PRODUCTIONS: Beginning, Intermediate and advanced students will apply theater arts skills in acting, directing, play-writing, and stagecraft. The purpose of this course is to provide an opportunity for middle school theater students to study the art of theater, including theater history, acting, dramatic literature, production techniques, and stage design. Students will learn improvisation techniques, stage movement, voice and diction, pantomime, and how to create a character. Students will demonstrate their learning in all aspects of theater through the production of scenes, short plays, student-written works and/or full productions of plays and/or musicals for school and community audiences.  (1 Semester) (Advanced: Year-long course)
  • ENGINEERING: Students will have the opportunity to explore the construction of items such as aqueducts and prosthetic limbs using every day items.  (Year-long course)
  • EXPLORING VIDEO PRODUCTION: This brand-new CTE (Career Technical Education) class provides an introduction to the world of professional video and production. You’ll experience every aspect of the film-making process, including screenwriting, story-boarding, equipment operation, green screen production, and editing, and work with industry-leading applications and equipment. Our world-class Advisory Board members (including Oscar and Emmy award winners) will be offering their expertise and career guidance.  (Year-long course)
  • FORENSIC SCIENCE: Students will use the scientific method to solve mock criminal investigations. This course allows students to explore how science and inquiry can be applied to the criminal justice system. Topics include crime scene analysis, physical/ chemical analysis of evidence, microscopy, chromatography, entomology, anthropology, hair/fiber/glass/document/fingerprint analysis, blood (serology) and DNA analysis. Principal methods of learning include lecture, demonstration, case study analysis, forensic lab activities and experiments.  (1 Semester)
  • INTERMEDIATE ORCHESTRA: (Orchestra MS) Approval from instructor required. One year of prior experience required. Must be able to read music. This course is for violin, viola, cello, and string bass only.  (Year-long course)
  • INVESTIGATIVE VIDEO PRODUCTION: This brand-new CTE (Career Technical Education) class offers an advanced film/video production experience. In this hands-on course, you’ll work with professional tools to creatively solve real-world digital video challenges. Our world-class Advisory Board members (including Oscar and Emmy award winners) will help you take your game to the next level and prepare for higher education and career opportunities.  (1 Semester)
  • LEADERSHIP: You must fill out an application to be considered for Leadership. (Year-long course)
  • ***MARINE BIOLOGY*** (newly added this year): Learn about the earth through the lens of the ocean and the marvelous creatures that inhabit it. You will learn about the origins of life from the ocean, the unique characteristics of ocean organisms, how they are interrelated, and ocean issues of conservation and sustainability. Experience the many interesting adaptations of ocean animals through virtual lab simulations, dissections, games, and experiments. Support for learners who wish to study a marine topic for the Portola HG Science Fair will be provided. (Year-long course)
  • MATHCOUNTS: This course provides challenging yet engaging math programs to build confidence and improve attitudes towards math and problem solving.  Recommended for students in the Highly Accelerated Math Pathway.  (Year-long course)
  • MOCK TRIAL: Mock Trial is designed to help students acquire a working knowledge of our judicial system, develop analytical abilities and communication skills, and practice collaborating with a team for a specific result. Students will be taking on roles as if they were the attorneys, bailiffs, plaintiffs, defendants, and/or witnesses in mock trial cases. During the course of the year, students will have the opportunity to take on different roles. Students will be practicing their roles, learning about the legal concepts, developing persuasive arguments and learning how to present those favorably in a team.  (Year-long course)
  • MUSIC LAB - Students will explore and learn about music production through a program called Soundtrap on their chrome books. In this hands-on class students will get experience editing and creating music with their computers. Students will learn to recognize how music technology is reshaping the production and creation of music.
  • ROBOTICS, CODING, AND ENGINEERING: In this class students in 7th or 8th grade can sign up and learn to practice engineering skills to solve real-world problems through interactive coding and robotics activities. You MUST complete the application to be considered.  (Year-long course)
  • SERVICE (TA): The major emphasis of this course is to provide students with opportunities to develop the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will prepare them for the world of work and to achieve personal fulfillment through productive service. Criteria: No “Ds”, “Fails”, or “Us” on the previous semester marks, student meets the attendance goal for LAUSD of 96% in school attendance, and is in good standing with the school’s Code of Conduct. (1 Semester; 8TH GRADE ONLY)
  • SPANISH INTRO: Introduction to learn basic vocabulary, grammar, and conversational Spanish to prepare students for Spanish I. This course does not meet the A-G requirements for high school.  (1 Semester)
  • SPANISH I: Learn basic vocabulary, grammar, and conversational Spanish. If completed successfully, this course meets A-G requirements for High School. Must have a “B” in English.  (Year-long course)
  • SPANISH II: Teacher recommendation (Mr. Laurell) and completion of Spanish I with a grade of "B" or higher.
  • STRINGS A & B (Beginning Strings): This is an introductory class in orchestral strings (violin, viola, cello & string bass). It is usually for 6th graders. No experience is necessary but would help (2 semesters).
  • YEARBOOK: Students create and design our yearbook.  (Year-long course)
  • ​WINDS A & B (Beginning Winds): This is an introductory class in wind instruments (flute, clarinet, alto sax, trumpet, snare drum, bells). It is usually for 6th graders. No experience is necessary but would help (2 semesters).

Magnet Electives

  • ENGINEERING DESIGN: (6th grade) Young engineers will explore the engineering design process as they work together to solve real-world problems through research, hands-on exploration, and collaboration. Each project will culminate with a technology project that presents the process and product.
  • EXPLORING ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY: This is a laboratory-based course that investigates the structure and function of the human body and other organisms. Through dissections of organs and hands-on projects, the students will learn all the major bo​dy systems along with the impact of diseases.  One of the goals of this course is to prepare students with the skills necessary to be successful in future science classes in high school and to develop an interest in health related careers. 
  • EXPLORING BIOTECHNOLOGY: (7th/8th grade) In the Exploring Biotechnology course, the students learn skills that are currently used in the industry through project-based learning experiences with real-world applications. This lab course is designed in partnership with Amgen Biotech and Coastal Marine Bio labs for the next generation of scientists to be able to work in a modern biotechnology lab setting. The students learn by blending theory with hands-on lab skills.
  • MATHCOUNTS: (6th/7th/8th grade) MathCounts will focus on applying middle and high school grade-level skills. The goal of this course is to provide students with opportunities to solve Mathcounts competition problems and to develop efficient problem solving strategies. Students will be working independently and in small groups to collaboratively solve math problems using multiple strategies and present their findings using effective reasoning skills.
  • MARINE BIOLOGY:: Learn about the earth through the lens of the ocean and the marvelous creatures that inhabit it. You will learn about the origins of life from the ocean, the unique characteristics of ocean organisms, how they are interrelated, and ocean issues of conservation and sustainability. Experience the many interesting adaptations of ocean animals through virtual lab simulations, dissections, games, and experiments. Support for learners who wish to study a marine topic for the Portola HG Science Fair will be provided. (Year-long course)