Connections

Teacher Information:

Brooke Hollingsworth
bhollingsworth@forsyth.k12.ga.us
770-781-4889 Ext. 290525

Courses Offered:

Exploring Agriculture 6th Grade
Exploring Agriculture 7th Grade
Exploring Agriculture 8th Grade

Course Overview:

Exploring Agriculture classes are a 9-week class. All agriculture classes analyze the different aspects of the agricultural industry. The class will cover a wide range of topics within agriculture and focus on the importance of agriculture in our daily lives. The information in this course will be given through teacher presentations and note-taking, group and individual projects, in-class presentations by students, and hands-on activities.

As a part of every Agriculture class, each student will be a member of The National FFA Organization. Mrs. Hollingsworth will be happy to share information on how students can be active members of this club. You can also find information about FFA on Liberty's Club Page. 

Course Standards:

Exploring Agriculture 6th Grade
Exploring Agriculture 7th Grade
Exploring Agriculture 8th Grade

Teacher Information
Marilla Kennell
770-781-4889 (ext. 290526) 
mkennell@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Courses Offered:

Visual Arts 6th Grade
Visual Arts 7th Grade
Visual Arts 8th Grade
ADV Visual Arts 8th Grade

Visual Arts 6/7/8 Course Overview:

Visual Arts offers students the opportunity to explore a variety of arts and mediums. They will improve their drawing, painting, and sculpting skills through various projects explored each quarter. Students will learn how to keep a sketchbook and will stretch their creativity and originality while learning how to compose and layout works of art.

ADV Visual Arts (8th Grade, Semester Long / Double Semester Option):

ADV Visual Arts allows students to begin exploring their own artistic identity. During this course they will explore Drawing, Painting, Watercolor, Ceramics, and Printmaking/Textile Arts. These skills will allow students to have a strong foundation for High School Visual Arts. To further promote understanding of art students will learn how to draw thumbnails, generate ideas, test ideas, refine ideas, and finalize ideas. They will have a total of five projects that are tied together through Identity, Purpose, and Theme. Each piece will require strong compositional and creative skills. At the end of the semester, students will have created a small portfolio of works, exemplifying their skills in art. 

Course Standards:

6th Grade Visual Arts

7th Grade Visual Arts

8th Grade Visual Arts

Advanced Visual Arts

Teacher Information:
Patrick Collins
pcollins@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Courses Offered:

6^th Grade Woodwinds and Percussion
6^th Grade Brass and Percussion
7^th Grade Band
7^th Grade Symphonic Band
8^th Grade Band
8^th Grade Symphonic Band

Extracurriculars:

Pep Band (7^th and 8^th Grade)
6^th Grade Advanced Band (Spring)

What is Band?

Band is a Connections class that meets every day for the entire school year that you can choose to join in any grade. We teach all of the instruments of the woodwind, brass and percussion instrument families. Sorry, no string instruments.

No experience is needed. We start from the basics of music reading and teach you everything you need to know about how to play your instrument. Band is inclusive and all students are welcome to join.

Learning music is a lifelong activity that will enrich your life. Music adds meaning and value to who we are, and it reinforces language, math, science, and social studies concepts. Students who learn to play an instrument or sing often academically outperform their non-musical peers.

Make great friends, have great experiences, and go on great adventures by joining one the largest groups in the school!

What do parents say about band?

"They learned to play an instrument, learned discipline through practice, made friends, and had great adventures!" – Winifred (Mother of 2 Band Students)

"Not only has the band program helped my children with an enriching and challenging musical experience, it has also helped them with gaining a strong and supportive group of friends. In middle school, where the students move from class to class mingling with different sets of friends, the band program provided them with a stable group of supportive friends. I find Band to be an anchor for my children in their middle school years where things are constantly changing around them." – Raji (Mother of 2 Band Students)

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Do I have to be selected to join Band? No, we take any and every student who is interested in learning to play an instrument. No experience needed.
2. How do I pick an instrument? We will help you! We host instrument fitting events where professional musicians will work with you to try different instruments and help you decide which one will be the most successful fit for you.

3. Do I need to buy an instrument? Some instruments are provided by the school (such as Tuba and Bassoon) and some will need to be rented or purchased from a reputable music dealer.

4. Can I still take Chorus/PE/Marketing/Engineering/Etc.? Yes, you can still experience all the other connections classes - you do not have to choose one over the other!
5. Can I be involved in other activities and clubs? Yes, our band students are active in every club and organization on campus, as well as participate in school sports (football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, golf, track, cross country, cheerleading, etc.) and activities outside of school (Boy Scouts, Softball, Baseball, Lacrosse, Dance, Ballet, Drama, etc.). Many politicians, athletes, scientists, and entertainers played in the school band!
6. Why should I do Band? There are lots of reasons, but here are a few:
   1. Development of cooperation, accountability, teamwork, self-expression, responsibility, discipline, perseverance, patience, self-esteem, listening skills, and a life-long enjoyment of music.
   2. Research findings suggest that children who are in music programs see significant benefits in reading, math, and logical-sequential thinking.
   3. High school students who remain in a quality music program average 20 to 40 points higher on the SAT in both the math and verbal portions.
   4. Music Majors see the highest medical school acceptance rate of any major at 66% (compared to Biochemistry Majors at 44%).
   5. National Merit Scholars are involved in music programs more than any other single activity in school. 

Teacher Information:
Amanda Ashurst
f36043@forsyth.k12.ga.us
770-781-4889 ext 290505

Overall Course Overview:

In the Business and Finance class, we aim to achieve several key objectives:

1. Financial Literacy: Understanding the basics of personal finance, including budgeting, saving, and the importance of financial planning.
2. Business Principles: Exploring fundamental concepts of business such as entrepreneurship, marketing, and operations.
3. College and Career Readiness: Providing insights into how business and financial skills translate into various careers and the importance of these skills in future educational pursuits.
4. Critical Thinking: Developing analytical and problem-solving skills through real-world business scenarios and case studies. 
5. Teamwork and Collaboration: Fostering effective communication and teamwork skills through group projects and activities.

Teacher Information:
E. Leanne Kinney
f40230@forsyth.k12.ga.us
770-781-4889 ext. 290517

Courses Offered:
6th Grade Chorus
7th Grade Chorus
8th Grade Chorus

Chorus is a performance-based class offering opportunities for developing vocal music skills and literacy. Students sing with and without accompaniment and sing literature in up to three parts. In each year of chorus, students develop proficiency in sight-reading music. The class emphasizes the importance of participating in an ensemble setting and accountability for individual parts. We present our work to the public in 4 public concerts each year, but all rehearsals take place within the class time.

Beginning Chorus (6-8):  This performance-based class focuses on learning to use the vocal instrument to create a healthy and pleasing sound. In addition to learning proper vocal production and technique, students learn music reading skills, sight-singing skills, and performance skills. Students sing literature with and without accompaniment in up to three parts. Chorus offers opportunities for students to develop team building and leadership skills. Participation in concert performances outside of regular class hours is required. 

Intermediate Chorus (6-8): This performance-based class focuses on continued demonstration of proper breath control and correct singing posture. Students sing with and without accompaniment and sing literature in up to three parts. Students demonstrate proficiency in sight-reading at the expected competency level and read music with more complex melodies and rhythms. Participation in concert performances outside of regular class hours is required.

Advanced Chorus (6-8): This performance-based class focuses on continued and consistent demonstration of proper breath control and correct singing posture. Students demonstrate open vowel sounds, properly articulated consonants, and appropriate tone quality on more advanced repertoire. Students demonstrate more advanced proficiency in sight-reading at the expected competency level and read music with more complex melodies and rhythms. Participation in concert performances outside of regular class hours is required.

Teacher Information:
Madeleine Noe
(770) 781-4889 x290514
f46170@forsyth.k12.ga.us

General Drama (9-week course)
In the General Drama course, the primary goal is to meet students at their comfort level on stage and help them to grow. Following the GA Standards of playing roles by developing character, voice, and movement, we write short scenes and perform them in class. Improvisation helps build character and confidence and adds to the element of fun. This class provides a safe environment for students to improve their skills as public speakers, appropriate audience members, and collaborative creators.

Year-Long Drama
There are two types of year-long drama courses offered at Liberty: Performance Drama and Musical Theater. Students in both classes learn the GA performance standards in the context of auditioning for, rehearsing, and performing in public performances. Auditions are held in class and every student in the class is cast in the show. Rehearsals are held in class, and when students are not on stage they are observing to learn valuable skills they can use. The only time commitment outside of class is the four after-school dress rehearsals leading up to the performances. These classes not only teach students performance skills, they also provide a sense of empathy and ensemble.

Teacher Information:

Tom Brooks
Technology & Engineering Instructor
VEX IQ Robotics Coach- TechnoPatriots
tbrooks@forsyth.k12.ga.su
770-781-4889 Ext. 290520

Throughout technology and engineering courses, students explore a variety of occupational roles. These roles require interpersonal skills such as cooperation, work ethic, respect for others, and self-worth. To accomplish the course objectives, students explore different modules of engineering and technology that can include (but not limited to or entirely composed of) engineering, aerospace, rocketry, animation, architectural design, and desktop publishing. The goal of the program is to develop technologically literate students who can take skills and knowledge from their academics and use them in work and outside the classroom.  Expectations, outcomes and projects differ throughout the three grade levels.  

Each grade level is outlined below.

Sixth Grade:

The goal of this course is to provide all students with an introduction to the principles of Engineering & Technology (hereafter referred to as E&T) and its place in the modern world. This course will also help students to use technological systems effectively in their lives, thus providing a foundation for successfully integrating their own interests with potential careers with the resources of a technological society. Exploring E&T introduces and has the student work through an engineering design process while looking at technological impacts on society. Exploring E&T reinforces the areas of math, science, social studies, and language arts through practical application and / or hands-on activities. Exposure to E&T related careers, work ethics and leadership skills will be important components in this course. At the end of this course, students will understand how engineering & technology impact them and the world around them and the careers available to them in the field.  

Seventh Grade: 

Invention and Innovation is designed to introduce students to the world of invention and innovation along with the Engineering Design Process. They will examine the impacts of invention and innovation on society and solve problems through research, design, and experimentation in one or more of the areas of Engineering and Technology. Students will work individually and in groups to investigate solutions to technological problems, using research, data collection, design, prototype development, and working models. Invention and Innovation reinforces the areas of math, science, social studies, and language arts through practical application and/or hands-on activities. At the end of this course, students will be able to evaluate products and systems that they encounter in their daily lives and choose appropriate technologies to solve a variety of tasks. Students will be able to produce a functional invention/innovation.

Eighth Grade: 

This course is designed for students to utilize the universal systems model including input, process, output and feedback. Students will examine various systems, such as; electrical, magnetic, mechanical, fluid, structural, natural, thermal, chemical, and information. Students will learn how various systems work together. Technological Systems reinforces the areas of math, science, social studies, and language arts through practical application and/or hands-on activities. At the end of this course, students will be able to utilize the universal systems model to design and produce a technological product. 

Common First Standard for all FCS CTAE courses:

MS-ENGR-***-1

Demonstrate employability skills required by business and industry.

1.1 Communicate effectively through writing, speaking, listening, reading, and interpersonal abilities.

1.2 Demonstrate creativity by asking challenging questions and applying innovative procedures and methods.

1.3 Exhibit critical thinking and problem-solving skills to locate, analyze and apply information in career planning and employment situations.

1.4 Model work readiness traits required for success in the workplace, including integrity, honesty, accountability, punctuality, time management, and respect for diversity.

1.5 Apply the appropriate skill sets to be productive in a changing, technological, diverse workplace, to be able to work independently and apply teamwork skills.

1.6 Present a professional image through appearance, behavior and language.

Throughout the Engineering and Technology program, students will be expected to:

• Develop an understanding of engineering and technology and describe the principal fields of engineering specializations (ex. aeronautical, automotive, chemical, civil, industrial, mechanical, computer software, electrical, and biomedical) and identify associated career tracks
• Identify the history of technology and engineering and its impact on society in the past, present, and future.
• Demonstrate and follow safety, health, and environmental standards related to the Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) workplaces.
• Use appropriate technology to collect, record, manipulate, analyze, and report data.
• Design a solution to an engineering problem by applying math and science principles.
• Demonstrate the application of STEM in the real world.
• Make connections from core classes (Science, Math and English Language Arts) to technology and engineering fields of work through written work and projects.

Teacher Information:
Andrew LeBlanc
f18420@forsyth.k12.ga.us
770-781-4889 (ext 290503)

Dylan Prince
f44809@forsyth.k12.ga.us
770-781-4889 (ext 290448)

Course Overview: this course is designed to introduce students to the fundamental concepts of leadership & empower them with the knowledge & skills needed to become effective leaders within their school and community. 

Course Objective: Develop the growth of confident, caring, and responsible leaders who possess the necessary skills to make positive contributions to their school, community, and beyond. 

6th grade course - Learning to lead
Description: The 6th grade leadership course emphasizes personal leadership development as a crucial step towards effective leadership. Through self-reflection & practical exercises, students will enhance their self-awareness, cultivate essential leadership qualities, and build a strong foundation for inspiring & guiding others.
Standards.

7th grade course - Developing Leaders
Description: The 7th grade leadership course is designed to equip students with the necessary interpersonal skills & strategies needed to effectively engage, lead, and motivate individuals and teams. Through interactive activities and practical exercises, students will develop their ability to build positive relationships, communicate effectively, and inspire others towards achieving shared goals.
Standards.

8th grade course - Lifelong Leadership
Description: The 8th grade leadership course aims to equip students with the essential skills needed to serve their community effectively. Through hands-on experiences and interactive exercises, students will develop problem-solving abilities, effective communication techniques, and the knowledge needed to foster a sense of unity and collaboration within their school and community.
Standards.

Teacher Information
Dr. Genesis Lee
glee@forsyth.k12.ga.us
770-781-4889 Ext. 290509

Courses Offered

Sixth Grade: Basic Skills of Marketing
In this course, the first standard is the employability standard, which is embedded throughout the curriculum. Marketing students learn fundamental marketing and economic concepts, applying them through hands-on projects and presentations. They will also be introduced to entrepreneurship, gaining insight into how to market their own business ventures. Students will engage in creative problem-solving activities and collaborate on business-related tasks.

Seventh Grade: Exploring Marketing Education
Building upon foundational marketing knowledge, this course reviews basic marketing concepts and introduces students to the seven functions of marketing, such as promotion, distribution, and pricing. Students will demonstrate personal, social, and technical skills through the development of individual and group portfolios. This course emphasizes leadership, teamwork, and communication, preparing students for more advanced marketing studies.

Eighth Grade: Pathways in Marketing
Students in this course will explore the various high school marketing pathways, including hospitality and tourism, promotions, management, fashion, sports, and entertainment marketing. The curriculum includes real-world applications of marketing terminology and concepts across diverse industries, with an emphasis on career development. Through interactive activities, students will gain an understanding of potential career opportunities in marketing.

Eighth Grade Yearlong: Advanced Marketing
This course is designed for eighth-grade students with a strong interest in marketing. Participants will gain hands-on experience working in the Liberty Mercantile (school store), executing special projects, and contributing to school events. As part of this year long commitment, students will develop advanced marketing strategies and customer service skills. A key requirement for this course is membership in DECA, providing students with opportunities to compete, network, and build leadership skills in a professional setting.

Teacher Information
Leanne Kinney
f40230@forsyth.k12.ga.us
770-781-4889 Ext. 1290517

Courses Offered

Introduction to Music Technology

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of music production and digital audio. Students will explore the basics of sound editing, recording, and music composition using technology. They will also learn about the role of music in media and how technology has transformed the music industry. Through hands-on projects, students will create and manipulate sound while developing critical listening and creative problem-solving skills.

Health and Physical Education Department:

Coach Anderson: 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade PE

Coach McNeese: 6th & 7th Grade Weight Training/ 7th & 8th Grade PE

Coach C. Pruitt: 7th & 8th Grade Weight Training/ 6th & 7th Grade PE

Coach M. Pruitt: 6th & 7th Grade Weight Training/ 7th & 8th Grade PE

Coach Rau: 6th, 7th, and 8th Grade Health 

Coach Shelton: 6th, 7th, & 8th Grade PE

Health & PE Phone:

• Pruitt/McNeese/Shelton: (770) 781- 4889 ext: 290555
• Anderson: (770) 781- 4889 ext: 290572
• Rau: 770-781-4889 ext: 290702

Physical Education: 

Through the use of cooperation, teamwork, and communication, students at Liberty Middle School study the importance of physical fitness, proficient health practices, and safety procedures. 

Health:
Health classes are offered through the Physical Education Department as a nine-week unit of instruction.  This required course is a diversified health curriculum which encompasses AIDS prevention/education, human growth and development, reproduction, nutrition, safety and drug awareness. Students are presented with information concerning a variety of careers in the field of health. These concepts are taught in a sequential order of difficulty from sixth grade through eighth grade.

Advanced Weight Training:

Advanced Weight Training is for student-athletes at Liberty Middle School. We work to develop the strength and size of skeletal muscles. This year-long class is designed to prepare our student-athletes for high school athletics. Advanced Weight training uses a variety of specialized equipment to target specific muscle groups and types of movement.

Teacher Information
Marilla Kennell
770-781-4889 (ext. 290526) 
mkennell@forsyth.k12.ga.us

Course Information

Yearbook is a course that allows students to explore journalism and publishing. Students spend three quarters of the year working towards learning to meet deadlines. The course takes them through planning, interviewing, photographing, and writing stories using creative non-fiction skills. Layout and design as well as formatting and editing are large components of this class. By the end of the year, students will have created a completely unique to Liberty Yearbook that was designed front to back by students in the class. During the fourth quarter, students create an end of the year video to recap all the memories of the year and also work on murals and other school projects.