Academic classes at Utterback are based on the Arizona State Standards. Projects, lessons and activities all begin with the goal of all students meeting or exceeding these standards. As Utterback moves toward a more interdisciplinary, project-based learning model with arts integrated into daily instruction, students will have authentic, meaningful experiences that will help them develop the qualities needed in the 21st Century- problem solving, creativity and innovation, collaboration, personal and social responsibility, health and wellness awareness. The following are the major concepts learned in each subject.

Math
6th grade
Factors and Multiples, Understanding Rational Numbers, Two-Dimensional Geometry, Understanding Fraction Operations, Two-Dimensional Measurement, Computing With Decimals and Percents, Probability, Statistics

7th grade
Introducing Algebra, Similarity, Ratio, Proportion, and Percent, Positive and Negative Numbers, Linear Relationships, Three-Dimensional Measurement, Probability and Expected Value, Variability and Comparing Groups

8th grade
Linear and Inverse Variation, The Pythagorean Theorem, Exponential Relationships, Quadratic Relationships, Symmetry and Transformations, Making Sense of Symbols, Linear Systems and Inequalities, Data and Statistics

Language Arts
6th grade
Writing Elements, Writing Applications, Comprehending Literary Text, Persuasive Literature & Writing, Expository Literature & Writing, Poetry, Academic and Informational Reading, Cultural Aspects of Literature

7th Grade
Reading Process, Writing Process, Comprehending Literary Text, Writing Elements, Comprehending Informational Text, Writing Applications

8th Grade
6 Trait Rubric, Functional Essay, Writing Process, Reading Comprehension, Factual Information Comprehension, Reading Strategies, Persuasive Reading and Writing, Expository Writing, Research Papers, Narratives, Poetry

Science
6th Grade
Scientific Methods, Chemistry, Diversity of Life, Weather and Water

7th Grade
Astronomy, Earth History, Ecology

8th Grade
Genetics/Evolution, Chemistry, Motion, Forces and Energy


Social Studies
6th Grade
Geography, Early Man, Ancient Civilizations-Mesopotamia, Egypt, Israel, Greece, Rome, Ancient Americas

7th Grade
Geography, American History Civil War-World War 1

8th Grade
American History-American Revolution, Great Depression-World War 2

Literacy Through The Arts
6th grade students have the opportunity to take the Literacy Through The Arts class which is a course designed to improve reading, writing, speaking and listening, while learning to become art producers and art critics. Drama, visual art, jazz and literature are the venues through which students are motivated to increase literacy skills. Field trips to concerts and museums are a standard part of the curriculum.