-
7-8th grade Learning Labs expose our students to different areas of interest. Learning Labs meet once a week for a semester. Learning Labs are offered on a 2-year cycle, so the same learning labs are not offered each year. The Learning Labs that we may offer include:
Mock Trial
Mock trials have proven to be an effective learning tool for students in all grade levels. Students will gain a better understanding of the law, practice critical thinking, and gain greater confidence with public speaking by assuming the roles of attorneys and witnesses in fictional criminal or civil trials.Forensic Science
Forensic Science will use a scientific approach to introduce the investigation of fingerprints, blood typing, eyewitnesses, working crime scenes, ballistics, DNA fingerprinting, arson, & toxicology. Using the scientific method, students will collect and analyze evidence through case studies and simulated crime scenes such as fingerprint analysis, ballistics, and blood typing & blood spatter analysis.
Business and Marketing
Allows students to think outside the box by turning an idea into a reality by working on a "Shark Tank" activity. Students have to consider cost, processing, manufacturing, packaging, marketing, and more.
Personal Fitness
Introduces students to a wide variety of movement opportunities, with the overall goal of supporting lifelong healthy behaviors.
Art I and II
Allows for creative and artistic expression, while students create original forms of art using a variety of techniques. Topics include: sketching, watercolor, painting, card making, use of oil pastels and chalk, self expression, and more.
Service and Leadership
The objective for the class is to develop our gifts and talents to make our school, our community, and our world a better place to love, learn, give, pray, and lead (our SMS Core Values). Once a week students will visit their site. Here are some examples of organizations students have partnered with recently: Steele County Foodshelf, Steele County Clothesline, Salvation Army, Park and Recreation Department, Koda Living Community, ECFE, SMS teachers, and more...