5th & 6th Grade Course Requests

This course is designed for students interested in beginning-level instruction on flute, clarinet, saxophone, trumpet,  trombone, baritone/euphonium, tuba, or percussion instruments for students who have no experience playing an instrument. Students learn the basics of tone production, music literacy, and instrument care. An instrument fitting session will be scheduled for the band directors to determine which instrument a student should begin with. Band students will participate in one required concert each semester and can join in various other opportunities. 

This course is designed for beginning to intermediate-level instruction on traditional band instruments for students who have been playing an instrument for at least 6 months to a year. Students will learn tone production, music literacy,  and instrument care. Band students will participate in one required concert each semester and can join in various other opportunities.  

This performance choir sings songs with increased levels of difficulty, including canons, vocal ostinato, descants, two-part and three-part harmony. With an emphasis on developing vocal skills and technique, choir members also learn basic theory, music literacy, and listening skills. The choir will have a variety of opportunities to perform throughout the year both for the MS Community as well as parent audiences.  

This course is your opportunity to learn the violin, viola, cello, or double bass, getting to play everything from movie music to classics and even pop favorites. The orchestra performs at least one concert each semester with additional performance opportunities throughout the year.

This course is designed for students with one or more years of experience playing violin, viola, cello, or bass. Students must be proficient in reading music, translating notes to their instrument, and confidently handling rhythms that include eighth, quarter, half, and whole notes. Additionally, they should be eager to contribute positively to an ensemble,  fostering a collaborative and supportive musical environment. Additional skilled musicians, including pianists, harpists,  and classical guitarists are invited to join, with opportunities that include ensemble leadership, playing chamber music,  and learning to conduct. Playing everything from movie music to classics and even pop favorites, the Charger  Orchestra performs at least one concert each semester with additional performance opportunities throughout the year and often collaborates with other MICDS music ensembles, such as band, choir, or other orchestras.  

Students will dive into the exciting world of three-dimensional art, exploring various sculpting and construction techniques to create unique and expressive works. Using materials like clay, wire, cardboard, and found objects, students will learn to shape, assemble, and refine their creations. They will develop an understanding of form, texture, balance, and structure while bringing their artistic visions to life. From crafting abstract sculptures to designing imaginative structures, students will gain confidence in their ability to transform ideas into tangible creations. This class is perfect for young artists who love to build, mold, and create with their hands!  

Students will dive into the world of 2D art, exploring drawing, painting, and mixed media techniques. Through fun and engaging projects, they will develop their skills in a variety of two-dimensional materials, learn about composition, and experiment with different styles and approaches. This class encourages artistic exploration, problem-solving, and personal expression, helping students build confidence in their artistic voice. Get ready to draw, paint, and create like never before! 

This class is an expansive exploration of the world of theatre and storytelling. Students focus on developing the actor’s craft,  building confidence and enhancing performance skills through fun theatre games, exercises and collaborative projects.  Throughout the year, students learn different ways to effectively use their face and body for expressive storytelling.  

There is so much that goes into a show in addition to the acting. This class explores the exciting world of theatre, looking at  everything from props and performance to stage makeup and sound design. This “all things theatre” course is for students that  are comfortable being on stage but are curious about the behind-the-scenes action, learning about all the elements needed to  bring a production to life. 

Ever wondered how your favorite music is made? In this course, you’ll dive into the world of digital music using a Digital  Audio Workstation (DAW) to create and edit your own tracks! You’ll learn the building blocks of digital music—like reverb,  compression, and more—and how to use them to bring your ideas to life. Explore how sound works and how producers shape it in the studio, then put your skills to the test by creating your very own digital audio project. Whether you’re into hip-hop,  EDM, or experimental sounds, this course gives you the tools to start producing your own music like a pro! No prior instrumental background is needed.  

Ready to unleash your inner musician? In this hands-on course, you’ll learn the three magic chords that power some of today’s most popular songs! Whether you’re strumming on the ukulele or jamming on the keyboard, these three simple chords will allow you to play, perform, and even write your own music. We’ll dive into the world of song form, breaking down your favorite tunes to see how these three chords make the magic happen. By the end of the course, you won’t just be playing music, you’ll be able to analyze your favorite songs and even create your own! No prior instrumental background is  needed. 

This course focuses on the development of musical understanding through the active vocal music-making, the creative process, and involvement with the components of music. Intro to Vocal Music includes singing, creating, developing rhythmic and melodic reading skills, listening, describing, and discussing. It prepares students for subsequent choral courses.  In addition, there is an emphasis on exposure to a variety of musical genres through classroom listening, visiting guest artists,  and assembly programs. There are no required performances in this class outside of the classroom. 

Students will explore the exciting world of creating art using digital tools! From drawing and painting on tablets to experimenting with digital collage and graphic design, this class introduces the fundamentals of digital creativity.  Students will learn about layers, color blending, and composition while using apps and software to bring their ideas to life. With a focus on creativity and self-expression, this class encourages young artists to develop their digital skills while exploring new ways to make art. No prior experience is needed, just imagination and a willingness to experiment! 

In this course, students will explore the world of three-dimensional art through hands-on projects using materials like clay, paper, cardboard, and mixed media. Students will develop an understanding of depth, perspective, and structure.  This class encourages creativity, problem-solving, and spatial thinking while making art jump off the surface. Whether designing futuristic buildings, crafting imaginative creatures, or sculpting everyday objects, students will leave this class with a greater appreciation for the world of three-dimensional art! 

Students will explore the magic of drawing and painting while building their skills and creative confidence. Students will experiment with a variety of materials, from sketching with pencil and charcoal to painting with watercolor and acrylic. Through fun projects and creative challenges, students will be using their imagination and personal expression while learning how to draw and paint. Whether doodling, layering colors, or adding final details, students will discover how to bring their ideas to life on paper and canvas! 

This class will explore character development, stage presence, and storytelling through fun drama games and exercises.  Students will learn the actor’s secrets: how to use face, voice, and body to bring characters and emotions to life on stage! 

Take action and take to the stage. This class is all about the actor and using the body to tell incredible stories. Students will dive into the world of physical acting and learn new techniques to bring characters to life. They’ll explore mime, movement-based acting, the power of posture and breathing and even create their own physical scene. 

Students will focus on their vocal production and all the ways tone, volume, pitch, and pace can be manipulated to create believable characters. Through games, performances, and puppetry, students will bring characters to life. Students get hands-on experience building puppets and working with ready-made ones.