1. 5th Grade Parent Course Selection Night
First Colony Middle School
March 2, 2017

2. 6th Grade Courses:
English Language Arts Literacy Math Science Social Studies Physical Education Fine Art

3. English • Math • Science• Social Studies
Level Options:
On-Level or Pre-AP
English • Math • Science• Social Studies

4. Pre-AP Higher level of rigor Fast –paced
Additional daily study time is needed for reading, writing, and research
Special assignments: Science Fair, History Project, etc.
Additional summer assignment

5. Pre-AP Math Accelerated curriculum
Covers Math 6 curriculum and part of Math 7 curriculum

6. Success in Pre-AP
Consistent, strong performance in subject area (Grades, STAAR scores)
Organized
Self-disciplined
Highly motivated

7. On-Level 1. On-level classes – High standards, strong academic focus
2. Both levels can prepare students for high school
3. Not “All or Nothing” – Student does not have to take all On-level or all Pre-AP, student can “mix and match” based on interests and strengths

8. Time Management Prioritize Balance Planner/Calendar AM Tutorials
Coursework • Projects • Sports • Clubs • Household Chores Family Time • Volunteer Work

9. Art • Band • Choir • Orchestra • Theatre • Math Counts
Time Management
Competition and performance electives require additional before/after school practice time, and performance time (evenings and weekends).
Art • Band • Choir • Orchestra • Theatre • Math Counts

10. Final Enrollment Based on:
Appropriate academic level
Available space
Carefully consider and rank electives (1-5) by order of preference

11. Preparing for Middle School
Lockers: Everything should fit in the locker
Recommend a locker shelf
No rolling backpacks
PE: Dress out everyday
Purchase PE uniform and lock for gym locker

12. Preparing for Middle School
School Supplies: General school supplies: pens, pencils
Department/course specific supplies:
Check FCMS website in August
Bobcat Camp: Registration information on website in July
Family Access: Register on elementary campus

13. Clinic Information on Medication
Prescription: Prescription medications must be brought before the first day of school. You will need to see the nurse the week before school begins, and bring the FBISD medication form signed by the doctor and the parent.
OTC: Students are not allowed to carry over-the-counter medications. These also require a FBISD medication form signed by the parent.
All medication must be kept in the Clinic.

14. Proven Strategies for School Success:
Check grades together on Family Access (parent and student)
Organization – Breaking down assignments (do not do everything the day before)
Planner – Use daily for organization
Family Calendar
“Practice makes perfect”

15. Course Selection Timeline
March 3: 5th Grade Visit to Middle School
Mini-orientation on what to expect next school year
* Flyer sent home by elementary school

16. Course Selection Timeline
March 6-10: Students bring home Course Selection Sheets and begin online course selection through Family Access
March 21: Course Selections sheets due to elementary school
For individualized questions/advice on your child’s course selection, please contact your child’s elementary school counselor.
The elementary school counselors and fifth grade teachers have experience and helpful information available for parents and students regarding the transition to middle school.