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Thomas C. Cario Middle School
Program of Studies
3500 Thomas Cario Blvd.
Mt. Pleasant, SC 29466
Phone: 856-4595
Fax: 856-4599
Table of Contents
Administration, Goals, & Mission………………………………………………………………………3
General Information………………………………………………………………………………………….4
Sixth Grade Courses…………………………………………………………………………………………..6
Seventh Grade Courses………………………………………………………………………………………7
Eighth Grade Courses…………………………………………………………………………………………9
World Languages………………………………………………………………………………………………10
Career and Technology Education…………………………………………………………………….11
Performing Arts………………………………………………………………………………………………..12
Fine Arts……………………………………………………………………………………………………………14
Health Sciences…………………………………………………………………………………………………15
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ADMINISTRATION
Sharon Randall, Principal
Dr. Laura Osborne, Assistant Principal
Dr. Evandro Valente, Assistant Principal
Nathan Wood, Assistant Principal
CHARLESTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISCTRICT’S GOALS
 Close the achievement gap
 Elevate overall achievement
 Raise the Graduation rate
CHARLESTON COUNTY SCHOOL DISTRICT’S CORE VALUES
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Results
Access
Partnerships
Diversity
CARIO MIDDLE SCHOOL MISSION STATEMENT
“The mission of Thomas Cario Middle School is to nurture a love of
learning through challenging academics and a supportive environment where
every student is valued, is taught to think critically and creatively, and is
expected to model dignity and respect.”
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CORE ACADEMIC COURSES
All students will receive instruction in four core subject areas. These subjects are English Language Arts,
Mathematics, Science, and Social Studies. All of these core courses are based on the current South Carolina
Standards and National Common Core Standards.
Honors courses are available to students who meet the Charleston County Schools honors policy. All honors and
college preparatory (CP) academic courses are designed to provide students with engaging, relevant, and rigorous
academic instruction in the given area as outlined by the South Carolina Curriculum Standards and Common Core
Standards for the particular subject. The specific standards for each subject are available on-line at:
http://ed.sc.gov/agency/offices/cso.
RELATED ARTS
In addition to the core content area curriculum, Cario Middle School provides a comprehensive related arts
program to challenge students and prepare them for high school. These programs include an award winning fine
arts and performing arts programs. In addition to the arts, Cario offers a career and technology education program
that has received grant money to incorporate cutting edge technology. The world languages program is also
offered across grade levels with the opportunity for high school credit. Lastly, the most comprehensive health
sciences program features action based learning to reinforce core content areas while improving physical fitness.
COURSES FOR HIGH SCHOOL CREDITS
The grades earned in high school credit courses at Cario Middle School will be recorded and counted on the
student’s high school transcript. However, high school credits earned in courses taught in middle school do not
count toward NCAA eligibility requirements for student athletes and may result in the student’s need to take
additional high school courses. It should also be noted that students who wish to retake a high school course as
ninth grades can do so and it will replace the grade they received in that course in middle school.
SCHEDULE CHANGES
Teacher assignments, course offerings, and class sizes are determined from registration information and the
placement rubric. The master schedule is developed based on student data available in the spring, and class
assignments are made to ensure that a variety of related arts experiences are provided to students. Schedule
change requests will only be considered in exceptional cases. Choice of teachers cannot be honored.
GIFTED AND TALENTED
Students identified as Gifted and Talented will receive services in an academic course in accordance with state and
federal guidelines. Cario is proud to service the largest population of GT students in Charleston County School
District.
EXCEPTIONAL NEEDS EDUCATION
A goal of the Charleston County School District is to provide a free and appropriate public education for all
students with disabilities. A highly qualified staff works collaboratively to identify and provide appropriate
accommodations, modifications, and instructional strategies to support academic and social success in the
classroom. Students with disabilities will be scheduled for their courses in accordance with their respective
Individual Education Plans (IEP) in accordance with Public Law 94-142 (IDEA).
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MAP, RIT, AND LEXILE MEASUREMENTS
Measures of Academic Progress (MAP) are a series of tests that measure your student’s knowledge in reading,
language usage, and math. These tests are administered up to three times a year in grades 2 - 10. All of the MAP
tests report scores using the RIT (Rasch Unit) scale to measure student achievement in a given area. The RIT is an
equal interval score that directly relates to the curriculum scale in each subject area. RIT scores range from about
150 to 300. Students typically start at the 150-190 level in third grade and progress to the 240-300 level by high
school. RIT scores make it possible to follow a student’s educational growth from year to year.
In addition to using MAP and RIT scores to monitor student achievement, Cario also uses Lexile reading levels to
match appropriate text to readers. A Lexile score is assigned to students through a reading test. This data is then
used to provide instruction and support through texts that match each particular student’s Lexile level. This
ensures differentiated instruction and it pertains to reading.
CAREER CLUSTERS AND INDIVIDUAL GRADUATION PLANS
The South Carolina Education and Economic Development Act (EEDA) requires school districts to develop a
curriculum around the career cluster system that includes sixteen career clusters, schools of study, and majors.
Students work with guidance counselors in order to examine their interests in schools related to their future
course selections in high school and beyond. These career pathways provide opportunities to students through a
challenging array of academic and technical courses necessary for students to compete in a global economy.
Success in school is connected to success in life.
Students, parents, and counselors work together to develop Individual Graduation Plans (IGP) that specify a
student’s cluster, academic focus (major), and post-secondary goals. The Individual Graduation Plan is a document
that states the student’s intentions related to courses that are taken during high school. The IGP is initiated in the
th
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8 grade with the choice of a cluster area. When the IGP is updated in the 10 grade, the students will select an
academic focus (major) within their cluster of choice. The courses that are taken are determined by the student’s
interests. It can be modified over time as interests and skills develop and change. The IGP is like a road map to the
future: if the student stays on course, he/she will be equipped with all the courses, skills and experience needed
to take his education or career to the next level. Each year the student, parents/guardians, and counselors will
review and update the plans for the coming year. Switching clusters or majors is acceptable. It is just as important
for a student to learn what he doesn’t like as it is for him to learn what he does like. Remember, this is a road map
to the future.
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SIXTH GRADE CORE COURSES
CP LANGUAGE ARTS 6
This course is designed to meet the needs of students transitioning from elementary to middle school instruction
in reading and language arts. Instruction will continue to reinforce foundational skills in reading and to provide
ample scaffolding for those students whose reading skills are still developing. Writing instruction, vocabulary
development, and research skills will be taught in conjunction with the literature studied.
HONORS LANGUAGE ARTS 6
In addition to meeting the standards set forth for English 6, this course is designed to meet the needs of
academically advanced students who were identified through the Cario Honors Policy. Students should expect to
find the curriculum challenging in a number of ways: text complexity, analytical writing, problem solving, creative
endeavors, and an accelerated pace. Cross-curricular research opportunities including oral presentations, Socratic
discussion, and project-based learning will be emphasized. Students can expect rigorous instruction in literacy.
CP MATH 6
This standards-based sixth-grade course is designed to help students begin the transition from arithmetic to
algebraic thinking. It includes concepts, operations, and problem-solving with decimals, fractions, and percents in
addition to an introduction to integers and ratios. Students will develop algebraic thinking through the
investigation of patterns, the use of simple equations and inequalities to represent relationships, and the use of
tables and graphs to solve problems. Throughout the course there is an emphasis on the process standards of
problem-solving, communication, reasoning, representations, and connections.
HONORS MATH 6
The emphasis in this standards-based sixth-grade course is on algebraic thinking and on extending the
understanding of the real number system to include integers, rational numbers, and irrational numbers. Students
will investigate applications of number theory and will acquire skills in adding, subtracting, multiplying, and
dividing integers. Students will solve applied problems by using one-step equations and inequalities, percents, and
proportional reasoning. Students will develop algebraic thinking by analyzing patterns to discover relationships; by
representing information through symbolic, graphical, and tabular methods; and by identifying relationships that
are linear. Throughout the course there is an emphasis on the process standards of problem-solving,
communication, reasoning, representations, and connections.
CP SCIENCE 6
The focus for this sixth-grade science class is to provide students with inquiry based experiences that develop
science concepts in the following areas: Structures, Processes and Responses of Plants; Structures, Processes and
Responses of Animals; Earth's Atmosphere and Weather; and Conservation of Energy.
HONORS SCIENCE 6
In addition to meeting the standards set forth for Science 6, this sixth-grade course is designed to meet the needs
of academically advanced students who were identified through the Cario Honors Policy. Students should expect
to find the curriculum challenging in a number of ways: text complexity, analytical writing, problem solving,
creative endeavors, and an accelerated pace.
CP SOCIAL STUDIES 6
This sixth-grade social studies course expands students’ understanding of history through the study of people,
places, and events. The curriculum spans pre-history (early man) through the Renaissance and early exploration.
Students focus not only on facts about various cultures, but also on the significance of geography in history,
people’s everyday lives, problems, and accomplishments, and their roles in developing the social, economic, and
political structures of major civilizations. Instruction will emphasize the elements of social studies literacy — the
tools, strategies, and perspectives necessary for understanding how history, geography, economics and
government are interwoven.
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HONORS SOCIAL STUDIES 6
In addition to meeting the standards set forth for Social Studies 6, this sixth-grade course is designed to meet the
needs of academically advanced students who were identified through the Cario Honors Policy. Students should
expect to find the curriculum challenging in a number of ways: text complexity, analytical writing, problem solving,
creative endeavors, and an accelerated pace.
SEVENTH GRADE CORE COURSES
CP LANGUAGE ARTS 7
This course is designed to meet the needs of seventh-grade students whose reading and language arts skills are
sufficient to allow them to read more difficult texts, analyze what they have read more deeply, and respond
without difficulty to the text in writing. The students in this course do not require foundational instruction in
reading strategies; however, they will continue to receive instruction in more sophisticated reading practices that
prepare the student for literary analysis. Writing instruction, vocabulary development, and research opportunities
will be key components of the course. Students can expect rigorous instruction in literacy.
HONORS LANGUAGE ARTS 7
In addition to meeting the standards set forth for English 7, this course is designed to meet the needs of
academically advanced students who were identified through the Cario Honors Policy. Students should expect to
find the curriculum challenging in a number of ways: text complexity, analytical writing, problem solving, creative
endeavors, and an accelerated pace.
CP MATH 7
The emphasis in this standards-based seventh-grade course is on extending the understanding of the real number
system to include integers, rational numbers, and irrational numbers. Students will investigate applications of
number theory and will acquire skills in adding, subtracting, multiplying, and dividing integers. Students will solve
applied problems by using one-step and two-step equations and inequalities, percents, and proportional
reasoning. Students will develop algebraic thinking by analyzing patterns to discover relationships, by representing
information through symbolic, graphical, and tabular methods, and by identifying relationships that are linear.
Throughout the course there is an emphasis on the process standards of problem-solving, communication,
reasoning, representations, and connections.
HONORS MATH 7
This standards-based seventh grade course is designed to meet the needs of academically advanced students who
were identified through the Cario Honors Policy and places strong emphasis on applications of algebraic concepts
and skills related to decimals, fractions, percents, and integers to solving a variety of real-world problems. Students
will study algebraic processes involving variables, expressions, and equations. In addition, students will extend
their understanding of the concepts of proportion and measurement and apply this knowledge in problem-solving
situations. Students will further develop their algebraic thinking by investigating the merits and limitations of
graphical, symbolic, tabular, and verbal representations of relationships. Throughout the course there is an
emphasis on the process standards of problem-solving, communication, reasoning, representations, and
connections. Students should expect to find the curriculum in this honors course challenging in a number of ways:
complexity, analytical problem solving, creative endeavors, and an accelerated pace.
CP SCIENCE 7
The focus of this seventh-grade science course is to provide students with inquiry based experiences that develop
science concepts in the following areas: Cells and Heredity – structure and function of cells and heredity; Human
Systems and Disease – functions and interconnections within the human body and breakdown of these functions
due to disease; Ecology – the Biotic and Abiotic Environment (interactions and responses between biotic and
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abiotic components and organisms); and Chemical Nature of Matter – classifications, properties and changes in
matter.
HONORS SCIENCE 7
In addition to meeting the standards set forth for Science 7, this seventh-grade course is designed to meet the
needs of academically advanced students who were identified through the Cario Honors Policy. Students should
expect to find the curriculum challenging in a number of ways: text complexity, analytical writing, problem solving,
creative endeavors, and an accelerated pace.
CP SOCIAL STUDIES 7
This seventh-grade social studies course continues the study of world cultures with a focus on the changes that
have occurred in Europe, Africa, Asia, and the Americas from 1600 to the present. Students examine the history,
geography, and continuing changes in political and economic ideas that have shaped the world in which we live
today. Students also address the growing interaction among societies developing concurrently during this period,
including the exchange of ideas, beliefs, technologies, and commodities. Instruction will emphasize the elements
of social studies literacy — the tools, strategies, and perspectives necessary for understanding how history,
geography, economics and government are interwoven.
HONORS SOCIAL STUDIES 7
In addition to meeting the standards set forth for Social Studies 7, this seventh-grade course is designed to meet
the needs of academically advanced students who were identified through the Cario Honors Policy. Students in this
course should expect to conduct a year-long comprehensive research project such as a National History Day
project. Students should expect to find the curriculum challenging in a number of ways: text complexity, analytical
writing, problem solving, creative endeavors, and an accelerated pace.
EIGHTH GRADE CORE COURSES
CP LANGUAGE ARTS 8
This course is designed to refine and master previously learned knowledge and skills in increasingly complex
reading selections and written compositions. Students will read a variety of informational texts as well as four
major types of literary texts: fiction, literary nonfiction, poetry, and drama. Students will use word analysis to
master texts that use complex vocabulary and will transfer that knowledge into their own writing and speaking.
Students will write for a variety of purposes and audiences as they increase their control over the written
language. Students will use the writing process to write narrative, expository, and persuasive texts. Through a
research project, students will learn how to access, analyze, and evaluate information while learning about topics
that are relevant to their lives and that appeal to their interests.
HONORS LANGUAGE ARTS 8
This course is intended for students exhibiting superior abilities in reading, writing, and grammar. The honors
curriculum will place emphasis on critical and analytical thinking and the analysis and interpretation of more
complex literature. Various types of literature, such as poetry, drama, short stories, nonfiction, and novels will be
used as springboards for the writing of literary analysis. Students will be expected to do independent reading to
prepare themselves for specific writing projects. Students also will focus on the analysis of language and literature
and will develop critical reading skills. Independent projects are an integral part of the honors curriculum. A
summer reading project is required.
CP MATH 8
This standards-based eighth-grade course places strong emphasis on applications of the mathematical and
algebraic concepts and skills related to decimals, fractions, percents, and integers to solving a variety of real-world
problems. In addition, students will extend their understanding of the concepts of proportion, measurement,
geometry and probability and apply this knowledge in problem-solving situations. Students will further develop
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their algebraic thinking by investigating the merits and limitations of graphical, symbolic, tabular, and verbal
representations of relationships. Students will be challenged to extend their mathematical knowledge of problemsolving in order to prepare for high school level mathematics courses. The course emphasizes the process
standards of problem solving, communication, reasoning, representations, and connections.
CP SCIENCE 8
The focus for this eighth-grade science course is to provide students with inquiry based experiences that develop
science concepts in the following areas: Earth's Biological History; Earth’s Structure and Processes; and Astronomy,
Forces and Motion, and Waves
HONORS SCIENCE 8
In addition to meeting the standards set forth for Science 8, this eighth-grade course is designed to meet the needs
of academically advanced students who were identified through the Cario Honors Policy. Students should expect
to find the curriculum challenging in a number of ways: text complexity, analytical writing, problem solving,
creative endeavors, and an accelerated pace.
CP SOCIAL STUDIES 8
This eighth-grade social studies course focuses on the history of South Carolina and the role that the state and its
people have played in the development of the United States as a nation. Students learn about the state’s
development during colonial times and the growth of the American ideal that led to the break with England, the
rising controversy about slavery, and the War Between the States. The study of the rebuilding of South Carolina
after the War Between the States and the continuing struggle for civil rights and justice waged by the people of
South Carolina allows students to see the progress that the state has made and to appreciate the contributions
that its people have made to the nation as a whole. Students also learn about the major political, economic, and
social changes in South Carolina through the twentieth century and to the present in the context of national and
worldwide events. Instruction will emphasize the elements of social studies literacy — the tools, strategies, and
perspectives necessary for understanding how history, geography, economics and government are interwoven in
our state’s history.
HONORS SOCIAL STUDIES 8
In addition to meeting the standards set forth for Social Studies 8, this eighth grade course is designed to meet the
needs of academically advanced students who were identified through the Cario Honors Policy. Students in this
course should expect to conduct a year-long comprehensive research project such as a National History Day
project. Students should expect to find the curriculum challenging in a number of ways: text complexity, analytical
writing, problem solving, creative endeavors, and an accelerated pace.
ADVANCED MATHEMATICS
ALGEBRA
This course is the first in a four-year sequential program of mathematical studies which is designed to help
students develop the ability to understand and apply mathematics to solve realistic workplace problems. Skills in
algebra are taught through an integrative approach.
COMPRESSED ALGEBRA
Enrollment in this course is limited to eighth grade students who successfully completed Algebra 1 in the seventh
grade but wish to retake it to improve their understanding and performance. This course is designed to provide
students with a strong background in algebraic concepts and processes. Topics include the concept of a variable,
algebraic expressions and equations; representations of situation and number patterns with tables, graphs, verbal
rules, and equations; investigating inequalities and nonlinear equations; use of matrices to solve linear systems;
and applications of methods to solve a variety of real-world and mathematical problems.
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GEOMETRY
This course is the third in a four-year sequential program of mathematical studies which is designed to help
students develop the ability to understand and apply mathematics to solve realistic workplace problems. Skills in
geometry are taught through an integrative approach.
RELATED ARTS
INTRDUCTION TO SPANISH
Grade 7
This course introduces the basics of the Spanish language. Students learn common phrases and will be able to
communicate on an introductory level. We also learn about the history, customs and cultures of Spanish-speaking
countries.
SPANISH I
Grade 8
This year-long course is the beginning study of Spanish. Students learn to listen, speak, read, and write in Spanish.
Emphasis is placed on communication. Students learn vocabulary, functions, grammar, and culture through a
variety of teaching strategies and materials. Students who successfully complete the course earn high school
credit for the course.
COMPUTER LITERACY 6
Grade 6
This course is designed to provide an opportunity for students to develop technology skills. Technology has
become important to everyday life and the students will get the opportunity to learn basic computer concepts and
skills that are necessary to function in today’s world.
DIGITAL LITERACY (1/2 high school credit)
Grade 7
This course is designed to equip students with many of the needed computer skills to excel in a digital world.
Students will be exposed to a broad range of computer technology from basic hardware/software to applications
and the internet as well as mastering the keyboard.
MULTIMEDIA BASICS (1/2 high school credit)
Grade 8
This course covers basic multimedia concepts and applications utilizing text, graphics, animation, sound, video, and
various multimedia applications in the design, development, and creation of multimedia presentations and
publications in an interactive environment.
JOURNALISM 6 + 7
Grades 6-7
This nine-week course introduces students to the world of media and its three main delivery platforms – print
(including online publishing), broadcasting, and advertising. Students will use the daily newspaper as their “text
book” and learn a variety of journalistic text structures, including hard news, feature, sports, and editorial. By the
end of the quarter, students will produce a school newspaper. Students should expect to write every day in this
class.
TECHNICAL WRITING (NEWSLETTER PRODUCTION)
Grades 8
This nine-week course introduces students to creative writing in four genres – fiction, non-fiction, drama and
poetry. Students will keep a “Writer’s Notebook” and produce finished pieces of writing via a systematic process of
editing and revision. Projects will include a memoir, short story, screenplay, and original poetry among others.
Students should expect to write every day in this class.
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DRAMA 6
Grade 6
This is a quarter class designed to expose students to theatre using a process-centered approach. Emphasis will be
placed on developing personal resources including imagination, concentration, observation, sensory awareness,
and movement. Narrative pantomime and story dramatization will be explored. Standards include Storymaking/Script, Acting, Directing, Designing, Research, Valuing & Responding, Connecting, and History/Culture.
DRAMA 7
Grade 7
This is a quarter class designed to expose students to theatre using a process-centered approach. Emphasis will be
placed on developing personal resources including imagination, concentration, observation, sensory awareness,
and movement. Pantomime and improvisation will be explored. Standards include Story-making/Script, Acting,
Directing, Designing, Research, Valuing & Responding, Connecting, and History/Culture.
DRAMA 8
Grade 8
This is a quarter class designed to expose students to theatre using a process-centered approach. Emphasis will be
placed on developing personal resources including imagination, concentration, observation, sensory awareness,
and movement. Monologues, dialogues and improvisation will be explored. Standards include Story-making/Script,
Acting, Directing, Designing, Research, Valuing & Responding, Connecting, and History/Culture.
ART 6
Grade 6
This is an introductory drawing and painting class. Students will learn how to use the basics of the elements and
principles of design while experiencing new and different techniques in drawing and painting. Students are
introduced to environmental drawing projects such as Jr. Duck Stamp and SCDNR REEL Art. Various artists from
history and art careers are explored as well.
ART 7
Grade 7
Students will continue to expand on their current repertoire of learned painting and drawing techniques and
incorporate them in upper level drawing and painting projects including participation in school wide projects for
various school and community projects such as Festival of Lights Mural and school musical projects. Emphasis and
introduction to environmental drawing projects continue. Various artists from history and art careers are explored
as well. Students are introduced to sculpture and some ceramic techniques.
ART 8
Grade 8
Students current art skills are reinforced and design skills are reinforced to prepare them for art classes beyond the
middle school art room. Students in the 8th grade play a major role in painting and designing murals and set design
for all Cario and community mural projects. Students are able to pick and choose environmental and other various
poster projects to create and participate. Various artists from history and art careers are explored as well. Students
are introduced to sculpture and some ceramic techniques.
ACTION BASED LEARNING
Grade 6
Action Based Learning runs on three 3-week rotations in order to expose all students to the class. The design of the
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ABL Lab for 6 graders is based on the ABL model of Jean Blaydes Madigan. The room is organized as a giant brain.
Activities in a certain part of the room are designed to improve the function of the corresponding part of the brain.
This will help students achieve higher goals in the academic setting.
WORLD CULTURES
Grade 6
Sixth grade students in World Cultures meet every day for one quarter. We "travel" the world exploring a variety of
cultures and customs. Students enjoy learning greetings in a number of different languages.
ENTREPRENUERSHIP
Grades 6-8
Entrepreneurship is a nine week course in which students will learn how to start and operate a small business.
During the course, students explore topics such as creating logos and slogans, the four P’s of marketing, return on
investments, cost of goods sold, and income statements. Students should have a basic level of math and good
communication skills. There are no prerequisites for this course.
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MARINE SCIENCE
Grades 6-8
The objectives for the course are designed around the 7 essential principles and fundamental concepts of the
Ocean Literacy Campaign published by the National Marine Educators Association, NMEA, and NOAA (National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Association) in 2013 for middle school students: to inspire awe for how vast, diverse,
and unexplored the ocean is, and for how fundamentally different it is from land; to provide a unique and
engaging experience that demonstrates how the ocean works and how it is interconnected with other global
systems; and to instill in students an awareness of the great diversity of ocean habitats and ocean life, and of how
much is still being discovered.
PLTW GATEWAY ELECTIVES (STEM)
AUTOMATION AND ROBOTICS
Students trace the history, development, and influence of automation and robotics as they learn about mechanical
systems, energy transfer, machine automation, and computer control systems. Students use the VEX Robotics®
platform to design, build, and program real-world objects such as traffic lights, toll booths, and robotic arms.
DESIGN AND MODELING
Students apply the design process to solve problems and understand the influence of creativity and innovation in
their lives. They work in teams to design a playground and furniture, capturing research and ideas in their
engineering notebooks. Using Autodesk® design software, students create a virtual image of their designs and
produce a portfolio to showcase their innovative solutions.
GREEN ARCHETECHTURE
Today’s students have grown up in an age of “green” choices. In this unit, students learn how to apply this concept
to the fields of architecture and construction by exploring dimensioning, measuring, and architectural
sustainability as they design affordable housing units using Autodesk’s® 3D architectural design software.
FLIGHT & SPACE
The exciting world of aerospace comes alive through Flight and Space. Students explore the science behind
aeronautics and use their knowledge to design, build, and test an airfoil. Custom-built simulation software allows
students to experience space travel.
BIOMEDICINE
Students play the role of real-life medical detectives as they analyze genetic testing results to diagnose disease and
study DNA evidence found at a “crime scene.” They solve medical mysteries through hands-on projects and labs,
investigate how to measure and interpret vital signs, and learn how the systems of the human body work together
to maintain health.
PERFORMING ARTS
BRASS BAND 6+7
Grades 6 & 7
Band: Brass 6: This class is a beginning band class for rising 6th graders, with or without playing experience, who
are learning a brass instrument (trumpet, French Horn, trombone, euphonium or tuba). No experience is
necessary.
Band: Brass 7: This is a seventh grade brass class. Students in this class are expected to have experience playing
their instrument. This is not a beginning band class. Students wishing to join band in 7th grade must enroll in
private lessons outside of school and audition for this ensemble. Instruments taught in this class are the same as
brass band 6
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BAND 8
Grade 8
Band 8: This is an advanced band class for eighth graders. All wind and percussion instruments are included in this
ensemble. Students in band 8 must have prior experience playing their instrument.
Band 8: Jazz Ensemble: This is an supplementary course to Band 8. All students selected for the jazz ensemble
must be members of the Band 8 class. Students in jazz ensemble are selected through audition at the director's
discretion. Students in jazz band must be accomplished players on their primary instrument in the Cario band.
WOODWINDS 6 & 7
Grades 6 & 7
Band: Woodwind/Percussion 6: This class is a beginning band class for rising 6th graders, with or without
experience, who are learning a woodwind or percussion instrument (flute, oboe, bassoon, clarinet, saxophones
and percussion). No experience is necessary.
Band: Woodwind/Percussion 7: This is a seventh grade woodwind/percussion class. Students in this class are
expected to have experience playing their instrument. This is not a beginning band class. Students wishing to join
band in 7th grade must enroll in private lessons outside of school and audition for this ensemble. Instruments
taught in this class are the same as woodwind/percussion band 6.
ORCHESTRA/STRINGS 6-8
Grade 6
This is a beginning string orchestra class with instruction on violin, viola, cello and bass. No experience is required
for this year long course. The orchestra performs at school functions, throughout the community and for
competitions and festivals such as Music in the Parks at Carowinds. Students will learn basic playing techniques
and will perform all styles of music.
CONCERT ORCHESTRA
Grades 7 & 8
This is a yearlong course for seventh and eighth grade students playing violin, viola, cello and bass. Students
should have one year of experience, however, students willing to get lessons outside of daily instruction are
welcome to join. Orchestra performances include school functions, community events, region and state
competitions and festivals. More advanced repertoire will be performed including alternative styles as well as
classical genres.
CHAMBER ORCHESTRA
This is an honors level string orchestra ensemble that meets one day a week before school. Participation in this
orchestra is by audition only. (Contact Pamela Heine for audition materials) Orchestra performances include school
functions, community events, region and state competitions and festivals. Visit carioorchestra.org for more details.
CHORUS 6
Grade 6
All sixth grade students sing in Cario Chorus—there is no audition required. Many sixth grade students also
participate in Cario band or orchestra.
CHORUS 7 + 8
Grade 7 & 8
Seventh and eighth grade students sing in Cario Singers, but are generally separated into seventh and eighth grade
choirs at most school concerts. Students who are currently enrolled in the Cario choral program are not required
to audition to move up to the next grade. Students who are new to the Cario program must schedule an
interview/audition with the choral director. New eighth grade students are required to be able to read music
proficiently. Students who cannot read music will not be able to keep up with the pace of the group.
TROUBADOURS
Grade 8
Troubadours are a group of eighth grade students selected by special audition at the end of seventh grade.
Members of Troubadours have worked for two years to demonstrate the requisite musicianship for a carefully
balanced ensemble. Troubadours are our special representative performing group at most local and regional
events; they specialize in vocal jazz. No new students will be placed in Troubadours without an extensive audition
demonstrating vocal ability, vocal training and significant experience in both music theory and solfège-based sight
reading.
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ADVANCED DRAMA
Grades 6-8
This is a year-long class designed to provide more in-depth training in character and script analysis, as well as
directing and designing. A continued development of a student’s acting resources, including voice, body,
technique, imagination and confidence through a process-centered approach will be included. Eighth grade
Advanced Drama students will participate in Cario’s annual musical which will be performed at WANDO PAC in
January, as well as other performance opportunities throughout the year. Eighth grade Advanced Drama students
will be eligible to audition for the SCSTA Cario Competition team. Standards include Story-making/Script, Acting,
Directing, Designing, Research, Valuing & Responding, Connecting, and History/Culture.
ADVANCED ART
Grades 7-8
Thomas Cario Advanced Visual Arts Study is designed to give intensive training to visual arts students who would
like to gain a greater knowledge of art through learning and creating art in a studio setting year round. These
students generally wish to pursue art studio in high school and college. Students participating in the year-long
program must submit portfolios, applications and clear an interview process to qualify. These students are
expected to meet deadlines, and work above a standard of excellence to represent Cario in such competitions as
Coastal Carolina Fair, Jr. Duck Stamp, Reel Art, Scholastic Art and Writing Awards, Waterworks, North Charleston
Arts Festival.
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