The Cache District middle school home economics teachers developed a 7th and 8th grade curriculum to improve the use of a limited amount of equipment and the quality of time spent with students in laboratory classes with increased enrollments.

The curriculum provides opportunities for individuals to have hands-on experiences. It is organized for students to work independently, in small groups (2-4 students) and in whole class activities. The purpose of this program is to support each student's personal development for present and future roles in the management of school, work, and family.

This program can be incorporated into a variety of classroom/laboratories because of the management system it uses:

1. Overview sheets for each unit of study that act as a guide as well as a progress report for students, parents, and teachers.
2. Instruction sheets that are easily followed are provided for each activity.
3. Students have some choice in the activities they complete to help develop a skill or competency.
4. The course is outlined to complete one short unit of study according to the scope and sequence established for each grade level.

A listing of the lessons included in this curriculum is found following this Teacher's Guide. The general topics include:

Choices and Responsibilities of Independence
Interior Design
Child Care
Sewing
Free Enterprise