TPMS Course Catalog for 2026-2027

REQUIRED COURSE OF STUDY

All students in grades 6-8 will be enrolled in 5 required courses -  English language arts, social studies, mathematics, science, and physical education well-being. 

ELECTIVE COURSES OF STUDY

All students will have a total of three support and/or elective classes; All elective classes are year-long courses; students in “Wheel” classes will rotate each trimester. Below is the list of elective offerings available to students; please note that electives are grade specific.

 

6th GRADE ELECTIVES

ACADEMIC SUCCESS (Course ID:108008)

The Academic Success elective is designed to provide general support to students. The class helps students develop essential study skills through whole-class lessons that focus on organization, time management with planners, an overview of Canvas, our academic platform, character development, and community building. The elective will provide students with a consistent place and time to work on their classwork and homework assignments from their academic classes while being supported by the Academic Success teacher.  

 

ADVENTURES IN READING (Course ID: 102101)

Do you Love reading? Do you wish you had extra time and a calm space during your day to spend reading new or favorite books with other readers like you? In this course, we will study genre, visit the library for lots of books tastings and activities with the librarian, and share the love and joy of reading with each other. In this class, you will challenge yourself to read more widely than ever before and practice discussing books with your peers. We'll read independently, we'll have book clubs, and we'll find new facvorite stories to explore together. This course is designed for all levels for readers who enjoy reading and want additional opportunities to read within the school day and will make time to read daily on their own.

 

AVID 6 (Course ID: 109500)

The AVID 6 (Advancement Via Individual Determination) elective for 6th grade is designed to help students develop the skills and habits needed for academic success. Through engaging activities, students learn organization, time management, critical thinking, and teamwork. They practice note taking, goal setting, and collaborative learning to strengthen their confidence and leadership abilities. This course builds the foundation of skills in WICOR strategies: writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization, and reading. AVID supports students in becoming independent learners while preparing them for future academic challenges. Application required and teacher recommendation required. Class size is limited. 

** Note: AVID Elective teachers will reach out to your 5th grade teacher for the recommendation. 

• AVID 6 Application
• AVID Flyer and Information Video Link

Application Deadline:  March 20^th, 2026

 

BAND (Course ID: 100510)

 Band is a year-long performance class and is designed for students who play the following instruments flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, bass clarinet, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax Trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba and percussion(drums/mallets). You will play a variety of music and perform at school concerts and festivals. Regular practice at home is essential to attain the skill level necessary to contribute to the Bands performance. Evening performances are required.

 

BROADCAST JOURNALISM -TPMS TV (Course ID: 100361)

Students in the broadcast journalism class (TPMS TV) will work in a collaborative environment to create a quality television program for the students at Twin Peaks.  Students will learn how to write, shoot, edit, and produce story segments.  This hands-on class provides students with a creative opportunity to develop their communication skills, learn time management and the fundamentals of broadcasting. Application required. Class size is limited. Click Here for the Broadcast Journalism Online Application.

 

DRAMA (Course ID: 100410)

This is a year-long elective that provides students an opportunity to participate in improvisational reader’s theater, pantomimes, scene work and monologues. After learning the basics, students are cast in a fully produced play and will be expected to memorize their parts. Drama students will have the opportunity to showcase their creativity and talent for other students and parents/guardians during this live performance. This class requires participation in a Saturday performance.

 

GATEWAY TO TECH – STEM (Course #100480)

This year-long elective introduces students to the exciting world of STEM through 3 engaging modules:

• Engineering Design – Hands-on projects introduce students to fundamental engineering concepts, including design, modeling, and problem-solving.
• Introductory Computer Science – Students develop critical thinking and creativity as they design and share their own web pages.
• Introduction to Robotics – Working in teams, students build and program LEGO robots to complete missions in a robot game and develop innovative solutions to real-world challenges.

 

HISTORY ACADEMY 6 (Course ID:         )

History often remains hidden in the shadows of lost cities, undecipherable scripts, and architectural anomalies. This course explores the mysteries of ancient history—the events, technologies, and disappearances that continue to baffle modern archaeology and forensic science.  From the sprawling empires of the Mediterranean and the East, to the shifting sands of the Nile, we will move beyond standard timelines to investigate the unexplained phenomena of the Ancient World that students will be learning about in their 6th grade Social Studies class.

 

ORCHESTRA (Course ID: 100550)

This course provides students with an opportunity to play a stringed instrument (Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass) and perform as a group in the school orchestra. You will play a variety of music and perform at school concerts and festivals. Regular practice at home is essential to attain the skill level necessary to contribute to the orchestra’s performance. Evening performances are required.

 

6^th GRADE PE ACADEMY (Course ID: 100031)

 An advanced PE class that focuses on competitive team sports, personal fitness, and weight training.  Students in the PE Academy should exemplify good sportsmanship and positive behavior, in addition to being focused on leading and active and healthy lifestyle. Application required.  Class size is limited. Click here for PE Academy Application.

 

SPANISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT 6 (Course ID: 102103)

This course is designed for native/heritage speakers of Spanish or Dual Immersion students. The course will provide instruction directed at continuing the development of existing competencies in the Spanish language. Students will develop academic vocabulary, interpret and analyze different literary bodies of work. Students will increase their awareness and appreciation of Latin American culture. The emphasis will be on developing both written and oral communication skills, as well as understanding and analyzing authentic texts. Pre-requisite required: Native/Heritage Spanish Speaker or Dual Immersion Student. 

 

STUDIO ART (Course ID: 100973)

In this hands-on elective, students will explore their creativity through various art techniques and mediums, including drawing, painting, sculpture, and mixed media. They will learn about famous artists, art history, and the principles of design, while creating their own unique artwork. This course encourages self-expression and experimentation, helping students build confidence in their artistic abilities. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced artist, this class provides a fun and supportive environment to develop skills and discover new forms of artistic expression.

 

WHEEL 1 (Course ID: 106008)

This elective will allow students to explore three different subjects, each for a period of 12-weeks. Subjects in this wheel include Art, Music Appreciation, and Intro to Digital Media (Video Production).

• Art: In this strand of the Wheel, students will be introduced to fundamental Art practices, like the creative process, experimenting with new mediums, and learning about different artists and art movements. In this hands-on environment, they will develop their creativity and artistic style and will be better prepared to take Art in 7th and 8th grade.
• Music Appreciation: The Music Appreciation elective will introduce students to the history, elements and styles of Western music. To enhance listening skills and cultural awareness, students will listen to variety of styles of music dating from the Middle Ages to current pop music. We will study how music works and how it affects our daily lives. Students will also acquire skills to understand basic history, notation, theory, terminology, instrument families, rhythm patterns and sound production, how instruments are made. All instructional materials will be provided.
• Video Production: This class introduces students to the fundamentals of video production. In this introductory course, students will learn the basics on how to create a storyboard, write a script and learn camera techniques such as: zooming, panning, tilt, camera angles, and the rule of thirds. Students will develop a basic understanding of proper lighting techniques and be able to select the appropriate audio equipment to achieve the best sound quality. Students will learn how to use We Video Pro editing software to edit their video clips. During the post-production stage, students will understand how to edit video clips by adding voice overs, music and text. This class is a wonderful opportunity for any 6th grade student who wants to learn how to make quality videos. 

 

WHEEL 2 (Course ID: 100615)

This elective wheel allows students to explore three different subjects, each for a period of 12-weeks. Subjects in this wheel include Exploring Spanish, Science Alive, and Math Workshop.

• Exploring Spanish: Students will be introduced to the Spanish language and culture as they learn to speak, understand, and read basic phrases and expressions through project-based learning. Major topics include greetings, clothing, family, and food. From this experience students may wish to enroll in more comprehensive foreign language course work.
• Science Alive: This elective will introduce 6th grade students to the scientific method and then teach them how to use all the tools of a scientist (graduated cylinder, triple beam balance, microscope, etc. It will also teach students how to write like a scientist (hypothesis, claim, evidence, reasoning). Hands on activities will be leveraged to dive deep into multiple Science disciplines. 
• Math Workshop:  This elective course is for students who are looking for a hands-on experience with math. The course offers project-based learning approach to grow and expand students' understanding of math topics that are being taught in class. 

 

YEARBOOK (Course ID: 100360)

Yearbook students learn and work collaboratively using digital cameras, photo editing software and online design software to digitally produce a yearbook. Students learn and use writing skills, communication skills, and creativity to tell the story of our school year in an engaging way. In this college and career-ready course, students think critically about meeting deadlines and tracking goals.  Application required. Class size is limited.  Click here to apply for Yearbook.

 

7th & 8th GRADE ELECTIVES

 

ACADEMIC SUCCESS (Course ID: 108008)

Students in the Academic Success elective will participate in whole-class lessons that focus on essential study skills(i.e. organization, time management, grade checks), goal setting, character development and community building. The elective will provide a consistent place and time for students to work on their classwork and homework assignments from their academic classes while being supported by the Academic Success teacher. 

 

ADVANCED ROBOTICS (Course ID: 100914)

In this course, teams of students will participate in friendly competition, engaging in research, problem-solving, coding and engineering as they construct and program a LEGO Robot to accomplish missions in a robot game. Additionally, they will undertake a real-world research project as part of the challenge. Students in this class will participate in the First Lego League program (RoboRAMS).  Application required. Students must have completed 6^th Grade STEM Lab.  Click here to apply for Advanced Robotics.   CANNOT BE REPEATED

 

AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE – ANIMAL SCIENCE (Course ID: 100701)

This is an academic class best suited for 7th and 8th grade students who want to learn about careers in agriculture while developing their public speaking skills. Students will learn about and interact with animals as well as researching and applying methods for caring for, improving and managing several types of animals.  This course dives into the biology of animals, their care and habitats. CANNOT BE REPEATED

 

AGRICULTURAL SCIENCE – HORTICULTURE (Course ID: 100702)

This is a hands-on academic class best suited for 7th and 8th grade students who want to successfully care for and grow indoor and outdoor plants on our TPMS campus, at home, and as a possible career. Students will interact with edible, ornamental, and native plants by researching and applying methods for gardening, composting, and conservation with the use of horticulture. Throughout this course, students will learn about plant biology and careers in agriculture, natural resources and environmental sciences. 

 

ART 1 (Course ID: 100210)

This is a year-long course in which students will explore and apply Elements of Art through the development and analysis of works of art. This course revolves around project-based assignments related to contemporary, historical, social, and cultural issues and meets the eleven anchor standards of the California Visual Arts Standards. Written tasks are also regularly assigned to students through note taking (during lectures and demonstrations), and projects reflections, and other unit specific assignments.  CANNOT BE REPEATED

 

ASB (Course ID: 100332)

Students will develop leadership skills as they work together to plan and facilitate events and activities to share with the TPMS community. This class focuses on skills like public speaking, time management, and collaborative skills to benefit the greater TPMS community. Application Required: ASB Applications will be available in March in room 911.

 

AVID 7 (Course ID: 109550)

Advancement Via Individual Determination - Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an elective course that prepares students for college and career readiness and success, and it is scheduled during the regular school day as a year-long course. Students receive instruction utilizing a rigorous preparatory curriculum, tutor-facilitated study groups, motivational activities, and academic survival skills. The course emphasizes reading strategies, focused notetaking, collaborative discussion strategies, tutorial inquiry study groups & leadership skills in support of the AVID scholars’ preparation for high school. Application, teacher recommendation and interview are required. Class size is limited. 

• AVID 7 & AVID 8 Application
• AVID Flyer and Informational Video Link

Application Deadline:  March 20^th, 2026

 

BAND (Course ID: 100535)

Band is a year-long performance class and is designed for students who play the following instruments flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, bass clarinet, Alto Sax, Tenor Sax, Baritone Sax Trumpet, French horn, trombone, baritone, tuba and percussion(drums/mallets). You will play a variety of music and perform at school concerts and festivals. Regular practice at home is essential to attain the skill level necessary to contribute to the Bands performance. Evening performances are required.

 

BROADCAST JOURNALISM -TPMS TV (Course ID: 100361)

Students in the broadcast journalism class (TPMS TV) will work in a collaborative environment to create a quality television program for the students at Twin Peaks.  Students will learn how to write, shoot, edit, and produce story segments.  This hands-on class provides students with a creative opportunity to develop their communication skills, learn time management and the fundamentals of broadcasting. Application required. Class size is limited.  Click Here for the Broadcast Journalism Online Application.

 

COMPUTER GRAPHICS ART (Course ID: 100975)

In this year-long elective course, students will become familiarized with the design process while learning the basics of graphic design and digital illustration. They will explore various methods used to create and combine words, symbols, and images to visually communicate ideas and messages.  Through Project-Based Learning, students will develop their own portfolio of work while also making real-world connections to the professional industries that utilize these skills.

 

DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCTION (Course ID: 100998)

This course continues to build on the fundamentals of video production. (No previous experience is required.) Students will understand the importance of developing storyboards and scripts to focus their ideas before filming. They will be able to demonstrate the use of different camera shots, camera angles and camera movements to have a more cinematic feel to their video projects. The students will develop their understanding of lighting and audio techniques to ensure a quality finished product that they can be proud of. Additionally, students will use Final Cut Pro X Editing Software (Industry Standard) to edit their videos. This class is designed for anyone looking for an exciting, hands-on environment where you will learn real-world video production skills.

 

DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY (Course ID: 100876)

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of the DSLR camera and how you can go beyond simply taking snapshots but taking your photography skills to the next level. Students will learn the technical side of photography of framing, light, composition, depth of field, rule of thirds, exposure triangle, aperture, shutter speed, ISO, how to edit digital photos in Photoshop, and create a portfolio of their work.  CANNOT BE REPEATED

 

DRAMA (Course ID: 100410)

This course introduces students to the drama/theater experience. Students participate in improvisational reader’s theater, pantomimes, scene work and monologues. After learning the basics, students are cast in a fully produced play and will be expected to memorize their parts. Drama students can showcase their creativity and talent for other students and parents/guardians.

 

GATEWAY TO TECH 2: DESIGN, MODELING & ARCHITECTURE (Course ID: 100481)

In this CTE Engineering and Architecture Pathway course, students explore engineering, design, and 3D modeling through hands-on projects. They will tackle design challenges, create prototypes, and bring their ideas to life using 3D printers and laser cutters. Additionally, students will delve into architecture and construction, utilizing architectural design software to develop plans and build small structures using real-world tools.

 

INCLUSION AMBASSADORS (Course ID: 100750)

Twin Peaks Middle School is committed to creating an inclusive learning environment where all students are valued and respected, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds. Inclusion Ambassadors is a course that empowers student leaders to become advocates for disability rights and inclusion. Through this course, students will:

• Serve as peer buddies in the classroom.
• Plan, participate in, and design inclusive spaces at school events.
• Explore the history and current issues of disability rights and inclusion in society.

ORCHESTRA (Course ID: 100555)

This course provides students with an opportunity to play a stringed instrument (Violin, Viola, Cello, Bass) and perform as a group in the school orchestra. You will play a variety of music and perform at school concerts and festivals. Regular practice at home is essential to attain the skill level necessary to contribute to the orchestra’s performance. Evening performances are required.

 

PEER TUTOR (Course ID: 101864)

This course prepares students to be effective peer tutors. Participants will learn essential tutoring skills such as active listening, clear communication, and adapting to diverse learning styles. Recommended for students who love to assist others in a classroom setting, and who feel comfortable with a variety of content knowledge. Students will be held to high expectations and must maintain strong academic, positive citizenship, and responsibel work habits to remain in the peer tutoring program (see pre-requisites below)

Students may be placed in a designated Peer Tutoring Homeroom to assist learners who need additional support. In this homeroom, they will receive training in how to effectively support and assist their peers. During trimesters 2 and 3, peer tutors will be assigned to support an individual student each Thursday during homeroom, providing consistent academic guidance and encouragement. 

Through interactive sessions and real-world practice, students will develop the ability to support their peers academically while strengthening their own leadership, responsibility and colloboration skills.

*Pre-requisite:: Maintain at least a 3.0 GPA with no D's and F's, no referals, and at least satisfactory citizenship in all classes required (No N's or U's). Application and teacher recommendation are required. Applications are due by March 23^rd. 

Click HERE for the Peer Tutor Application 

 

 7^th GRADE PE ACADEMY (Course ID: 100032)

An advanced PE class that focuses on competitive team sports, personal fitness, and weight training. Students in the PE Academy should exemplify good sportsmanship and positive behavior. Students interested in taking this course will need teacher approval from their current PE teacher.

 

SCIENCE WHEEL (Course ID: 100402)

Students will have an opportunity to take three different 12-week electives with science as focus and will stay in the wheel for a full year. This is 7th/8th grade course. Students cannot repeat this course. Courses in this wheel include:

• Food Science: Students will explore their sense of taste as they learn about many categories of food, including vegetables, fruits, milk & cheese, proteins, grains, and sugar. Students will practice proper measurement techniques and basic kitchen safety with simple cooking experiments. Students will learn about the importance of cleanliness and preventing cross contamination in the kitchen.
• Medical Detectives: In the Medical Detectives elective class, students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they collect and analyze medical data to diagnose disease. They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs, measure and interpret vital signs, dissect a sheep brain, investigate disease outbreaks, and explore how a breakdown within the human body can lead to dysfunction.
• Zoology: Do you love animals? Zoology is all about the physiology, adaptations, and habitats of a wide variety of animals. We will learn about both land and ocean animals!

SPANISH 1-2 (Course ID: 100470)

The Middle School Accelerated Spanish 1-2 course is designed for students who are eager to immerse themselves in the Spanish language and accelerate their learning journey. This course integrates the content of Spanish 1 and Spanish 2 into a single accelerated curriculum, allowing students to acquire foundational skills and progress rapidly toward higher proficiency levels. Strong academic study skills are encouraged for students enrolling in this course. Students completing this course with a “C” or better will be granted university world language entrance requirements if the student completes at least one year in the same language in high school. This provides them with a head start in their academic pursuits.

 

SPANISH 1 YEARLONG  (Course ID: 100503)

Yearlong Spanish Level 1 is an introductory course designed for students with little or no previous experience in the Spanish language. This course focuses on building a strong foundation in basic communication skills, including listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Through a variety of interactive activities, students will develop the ability to understand and produce simple spoken and written expressions in Spanish.  CANNOT BE REPEATED

 

SPANISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT 7-8 (Course ID: 102103)

This course is designed for native/heritage speakers of Spanish or Dual Immersion students. The course will provide instruction directed at continuing the development of existing competencies in the Spanish language. Students will develop academic vocabulary, interpret and analyze different literary bodies of work. Students will increase their awareness and appreciation of Latin American culture. The emphasis will be on developing both written and oral communication skills, as well as understanding and analyzing authentic texts. Pre-requisite required: Native/Heritage Spanish Speaker or Dual Immersion Student.  CANNOT BE REPEATED

 

SPEECH & DEBATE (Course ID: 100333)

Speech and Debate is a two-semester course.Speech class guides students through the exploration of the basics of public speaking, communication skills, and effective self-expression. Through engaging activities, students will practice delivering speeches, participating in group discussions, and building confidence in public speaking. This course covers demonstrative speaking, persuasive speaking, improvisational speaking, and presentation skills, while allowing students to experiment with different speech styles and formats. 

Debate course will give students the chance to engage in debate events that will build self-confidence and analytical skills in a fun, competitive environment. Students will engage in debates on real world issues that will challenge them to get fast on their toes, be prepared with evidence, and look for an opponent's weaknesses to secure a win for themselves and their team.   By the end of the course, students will feel more comfortable expressing their ideas and opinions, both in the classroom and beyond!  Course Video Linked Here!  

Recommended Pre-requisite: G or higher in Conduct & Work Habits, C or higher in Social Studies and ELA

 

STAGE CRAFT (Course ID: 100347)

Students will prepare for careers in live entertainment with an emphasis on production crafts and technology. Students will understand the design process, properly operate tools and equipment, and work collaboratively in live production environments.

 

TEXTILE ARTS  (Course ID:         )

Calling all crafters! Textile arts are arts and crafts that use plant, animal, or synthetic fibers - such as fabric or yarn-to construct practical or decorative objects. In this class, you will sample and practice a variety of textile art mediums for both practical and artistic purposes, such as : knitting, crocheting, weaving, dyeing, quilting, felting and needlework such as sewing and embroidery. This is a hands-on learning experience in working with a variety of materials, including sewing needles, along with learning essential vocabulary and history of a wide range of textile mediums. 

 

YEARBOOK (Course ID: 100360)

Yearbook students learn and work collaboratively using digital cameras, photo editing software and online design software to digitally produce a yearbook. Students learn and use writing skills, communication skills, and creativity to tell the story of our school year in an engaging way. In this college and career-ready course, students think critically about meeting deadlines and tracking goals. Application required. Class size is limited.  Click HERE to apply for Yearbook.

 

8th GRADE ONLY ELECTIVES

 

ART 2 (Course ID: 100220)

This is a yearlong class which revolves around project-based assignments related to contemporary, historical, social, and cultural issues. This course will introduce students to academic vocabulary, traditional and contemporary artwork, and the creative process. The curriculum is based around the California Visual Arts Standards and philosophies, which are grounded in the vision of artistic literacy—the knowledge and understanding required to participate authentically in the arts. Written tasks are regularly assigned to students through note taking (during lectures and demonstrations), project reflections, and other unit specific assignments.  Pre-requisite: Grade of C or better in Art 1.

 

AVID 8 (Course ID: 109600)

Advancement Via Individual Determination - Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an elective course that prepares students for college and career readiness and success, and it is scheduled during the regular school day as a year-long course. Students receive instruction utilizing a rigorous preparatory curriculum, tutor-facilitated study groups, motivational activities, and academic survival skills. The course emphasizes reading strategies, focused notetaking, collaborative discussion strategies, tutorial inquiry study groups & leadership skills in support of the AVID scholars’ preparation for high school. Application, teacher recommendation and interview are required. Class size is limited. 

• AVID 7 & AVID 8 Application
• AVID Flyer and Informational Video Link

Application Deadline:  March 20^th, 2026

 

 8^th GRADE PE ACADEMY (Course ID: 100033)

An advanced PE class that focuses on competitive team sports, personal fitness, and weight training. Students in the PE Academy should exemplify good sportsmanship and positive behavior. Students interested in taking this course will need teacher approval from their current PE teacher.

 

SPANISH 3-4 (Course ID: 100472)

Spanish 3/4 is an intermediate-level course designed to further develop students' proficiency in the Spanish language. Building upon the skills acquired in previous levels, this course focuses on expanding vocabulary, refining grammar structures, and enhancing communication abilities in both written and spoken Spanish. Students will engage in a variety of interactive activities and authentic materials to deepen their understanding of the language and culture. Students completing this course with a “C” or better will be granted university world language entrance requirements, if the student completes at least one year in the same language in high school.  Pre-requisite Required: Grade of C or higher in Spanish 1-2.

 

SPANISH 2 YEARLONG (Course ID: 100504)

Yearlong Spanish 2 is a continuation of the introductory Spanish course designed for students who have completed Spanish Level 1 or who have equivalent proficiency. This course aims to further develop students' language skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing, while expanding their vocabulary and grammatical knowledge. Through interactive activities and cultural exploration, students will deepen their understanding of the Spanish language and Hispanic cultures. Students completing this course with a “C” or better will be granted university world language entrance requirements, if the student completes at least one year in the same language.