Academic Spotlight: SCMS Academic Team January 25/2016

What is Academic Team? Academic Team is an extracurricular activity designed to challenge some of the brightest students at Spencer County Middle School. Divided into two major categories: Quick Recall Written Assessments -Assessments Include: + Science +Written Composition + Social Studies + Arts & Humanties + Language Arts + Math +Future Problem Solving Beginning course details and/or books/materials needed for a class/project.

Introduction of the 5th Period Class In an effort to take our team to the next level SCMS decided to introduce a new class for members of the team. Students each focus on two subjects they enjoy most and work in-class to improve their scores on written assessments. Introductory notes.

Typical Week Class Schedule Mon. Tue. Wed. Thurs. Fri. Chromebook Self Directed Study of 2 Content Areas 50 Question Exam on Topic One (Example-ELA) Review/Correct Exams, Research, Quick Recall Practice 50 Question Exam on Topic Two (Example-Science) A schedule design for optional periods of time/objectives.

Class Objectives and Results This Schedule allows students the opportunity to explore content they may not get a chance to in their own classes. Students from all grade levels attend this class. For example, a 7th Grade student started working on Khan Academy online during classes, continued work throughout the year and completed a trigonometry module over snow days because he wants to get better at math to win competitions. This also provides a great opportunity for our classes to collaborate with the Gifted/Talented program, as many of these students are gathered together. It provides a great opportunity for kids of other grade levels to collaborate. We routinely have 7th and 8th graders helping 6th graders with higher level concepts. Objectives for instruction and expected results and/or skills developed from learning.

Class Stats Students complete two written assessment tests every week. Students have individually completed and checked over 1,000 different topical questions in their subject area. Students have had had close to 70 extra hours of practice that they wouldn’t have had without the class. Students get at least 2 hours each week with technology working on areas they are most interested in. Relative vocabulary list.

-Practice -The Middle School Academic Team typically practices Monday- Thursday from 3PM-4PM and has done so nearly every week since the start of the school year. -Students who can’t attend practices after school due to sports/band/etc. still have a chance to work on academic team content because of our 5th Period class. -In after-school practice students practice dozens of quick-recall style (buzzer) questions each day, as well as have extra time for content study. A list of procedures and steps, or a lecture slide with media.

Our Students…. Are highly motivated and are constantly looking to reach the next level. Are often leading their peers in other classes or challenging them to try harder. Are planning on bringing home a win for Spencer County this week at districts! Thank you SCMS Academic Team Students for your hard work. You represent our district well! Example graph/chart.