Middle school is a time for discovery. It’s a time to try new things and unlock new talents. At P.E. Wallace Middle School, the fifth grade class does just that with elective options in music, art, and computers.

At the beginning of every year, the fifth graders are split into 3 groups. Group A spends the first six weeks in music class. Group B attends art class for six weeks. And Group C enjoys six weeks of instruction in computers. At the end of each six week grading period, the groups rotate so that everyone can experience all three areas, twice by the end of the year.

In music first semester, each group learns the basics of reading music. They are able to identify different notes, read notes on a line, and keep simple rhythms. They then transfer that knowledge into singing simple songs. In second semester, they will use what they learned to play music on recorders, much to the delight of their families and the classrooms on either side of them. Music is taught by Joshua Miles and Diane Swiger.

In computer class, the first semester focuses on teaching the students proper typing skills. They use various age-appropriate programs to learn to type using the correct finger placement. When they return after Christmas break, the students delve into some simple Computer Science and programming basics. Computer instruction is provided by Tara Flores and Bridget Arevalos.

In art, the students learn multiple techniques to create artwork for various events. So far this semester, the students have worked on pieces for the Titus County Fair, the Wallace Hispanic Heritage Festival, and will create pieces for the annual Veteran’s Day program in November, while also learning 3D art. In the spring semester, students produce artwork for the spring dance, Valentine’s Day, and the MPISD end-of-the-year staff breakfast. Instructors for art include Terry McCain and Janie Moreno.

As sixth graders these same students will be able to select a full year elective class from art, choir, band, dance, theatre, pre-athletics or computer. Having already

tried on most of these electives for size, students are able to make an informed decision as to which area suits them the most. And they will already have some basic knowledge in the subject, allowing them to be successful and to grow in an elective class that interests them.

Photos:

5704: Jeremiah Campbell, Jaicee Amador-Oluwatoke, and Loagyn Hurley sing a folk song in music class.

5711: (Front L to R) Jariyah Brown, Mateo Canada, Mia Carrillo, Gunner Craig and (back left) Jaiden Edwards warm up by practicing reading music

5724: Damian Amador works on his typing skills

5726 : Jannahi Castro works on an art project for Hispanic Heritage month