Ramsay High School Curriculum Guide

2017-2018

DIPLOMAThe state only offers one diploma option. Please find below the requirements for this diploma.

Alabama High School DiplomaAREAS OF STUDY REQUIREMENTS CREDITS

English Language Arts All levels of English 9, 10, 11, and 12 4Mathematics Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II w/ Trig or Algebra

II, or their equivalent. Additional course(s) to complete the four credits in mathematics must be chosen from

the Alabama Course of Study: Mathematics.

4

Science Biology and a physical science. A third and fourth science credits must be chosen from the Alabama

Course of Study: Science.

4

Social Studies World History, US History (2 courses), and Government/Economics

4

Physical Education LIFE (Personal Fitness) or state-approved course that substitutes for PE

1

Health Education 0.5Career Preparedness Career Preparedness Course (Career and Academic

Planning, Computer Applications, Financial Literacy)1

Career Tech Education (CTE) and/or World Language and/or

Arts Education

Students choosing CTE, Arts Education, and/or World Language are encouraged to complete two courses in

sequence.

3

Electives 2.5TOTAL CREDITS REQUIRED FOR GRADUATION 24

GRADING SCALE AND CALCULATIONGRADING SCALE AND CALCULATIONThe grading system at Ramsay School will reflect student’s actual performance in all facets of learning. The following grading system will be used:

90 - 100 = A80 - 89 = B70 - 79 = C60 - 69 = DBelow 60 = F

Report cards will be issued at the conclusion of each 9-week grading period. Report card grades will list percentages as well as letter grades. The semester grade will be based on the value of 40% for each nine (9) weeks and 20% for the semester exam.

FOUR YEAR EDUCATIONAL PLANName: __________________________________________________________ Projected Graduation: _________________

SUBJECT (UNITS)

9th GRADESchool Year: _______

10th GRADESchool Year: ___________

11th GRADESchool Year: __________

12th GRADESchool Year: ______

English (4)

Pre-AP English 9 Pre-AP English 10 Pre-AP English 11 AP Language

English 12 AP Literature

Social Studies (4)

Pre-AP World History 9

Pre-AP US History 10 AP US History 10

Pre-AP US History 11 AP US History

Street Law (.5) Government/Economics AP Government/Econ.

Math (4)

Pre-AP Algebra I Pre-AP Geometry

Pre-AP Geometry Pre-AP Algebra II w/

Trig

Pre-AP Algebra II with Trig

Pre-Calculus

PreCalculus AP Calculus/Workshop AP Statistics/Workshop

Science (4)

Pre-AP Biology Pre-AP Chemistry Pre-AP Physics AP Biology/Workshop

Human Anatomy Genetics Advanced Chemistry Advanced Physics AP Biology &

Workshop AP Chemistry &

Workshop

Human Anatomy Pre-AP Physics AP Biology/Workshop AP Chemistry &

Workshop AP Environment Science

& Workshop AP Physics

**Electives *Career Preparedness

*Health Life PE JROTC French I Spanish I Marching Band Choir I Art

Fundamentals Dance I Creative Writing Family &

Consumer Science

Piano Lab Beginning

Orchestra Advanced

Orchestra Theatre I

*Life PE *Health (.5) Career Preparedness JROTC I JROTC II Army JROTC Drill I JROTC 2B (Color

guard) JROTC 4B (Rifle) French I French II Spanish I Spanish II BTA Advanced BTA Law and Society Multimedia Design Multimedia

Publications Accounting Finance Banking and Finance Choir I Concert Choir Dance I Piano Lab Theatre I Theatre II Beginning Band Marching

Band/Symphonic Band Beginning Orchestra Advanced Orchestra Art Fundamentals Specialized Art AP Art Creative Writing African American

Literature Debate Public Speaking ACT Prep (Writing) Food and Nutrition Parenting Fashion

*Career Preparedness *Life PE *Health (.5) JROTC I JROTC II JROTC III Army JROTC Drill 1 JROTC 2B (Color

guard) JROTC 4B (Rifle) Law and Society (BTA

Pre-rec) Advanced BTA Multimedia Design Multimedia

Publications Accounting Bank and Finance Choir I Concert Choir Dance I Piano Lab Theatre I Theatre II Beginning Band Marching/Symphonic

Band Concert Band Beginning Orchestra Art Fundamentals Specialized Art AP Studio Art Creative Writing African American

Literature Speech (.5) Spanish I Spanish II Spanish III French I French II French III Foods and Nutrition Family and Consumer

Sciences Parenting Psychology (.5)

*Life PE *Health (.5) JROTC 1 JROTC II JROTC III JROTC IV Accounting Accounting II Law and Society (BTA

Pre-rec) Advanced BTA Multimedia Design Choir I Concert Choir Dance I Dance II Theatre Theatre II Theatre III Beginning Band Marching/Concert Band Beginning Orchestra Art Fundamentals Specialized Art AP Studio Art Piano Lab Creative Writing Spanish I Spanish II Spanish III French I French II French III Foods and Nutrition Fashion Parenting

ACCESS Courses Web Design I Web Design II BTA Latin I Accounting Creative Writing (.5) Psychology (.5) Sociology (.5) Personal Finance (.5) Nutrition & Wellness (.5)

Pre-AP:

Description: Used to denote advanced level courses that specifically include content and skills that help prepare students for taking an Advanced Placement course in the given subject. These courses will also prepare students for the International Baccalaureate program in those subjects that do not have specific Pre-IB courses. The title Pre-AP designates a preparatory course for AP work, not a College Board Advanced Placement course.

Recommendation: Students with a strong work ethic who have demonstrated above average ability in the given subject and who desire to attempt college-level courses before graduating from high school

Content distinction: These courses cover more challenging topics by moving faster through the content

Grade weight: +0.50 quality point

AP:Description: Used to describe college-level courses that follow the Advanced Placement curriculum as defined by The College Board that prepares students for an examination at the end of the course, and the scores from these exams can be submitted for consideration of credit to colleges or universities

Recommendation: Students with a very strong work ethic who are prepared to begin college-level coursework in the given subject prior to graduation from high school

Content distinction: These courses move at a college pace and cover a deep range of content as defined by The College Board that represents the same topics that one would expect to find in freshmen and sophomore level courses at a typical college or university

Homework load: These courses require substantial reading and writing assignments outside of class, and students should expect on average an additional 30 – 40 minutes of homework per night for each course

Grade weight: +1.00 quality point

Criteria: 85% average grade in advanced levels of the given subject and approval by the AP instructor

IB:

Description: Used to describe college-level courses that follow the International Baccalaureate curriculum as defined by the IB Organization in Geneva, Switzerland that prepares students for a series of examinations in all academic subjects, and the scores from these exams can be submitted for consideration of credit to colleges or universities

Recommendation: Students with a very strong work ethic who are prepared to begin college-level coursework in all academic areas prior to graduation from high school and who desire an international perspective in their education

Content distinction: These courses move at a college pace and cover a deep range of content as defined by the IB Organization that meets the standards of colleges and universities around the world as a benchmark of excellence

Homework load: These courses require substantial reading and writing assignments outside of class, and students should expect on average an additional 30 – 40 minutes of homework per night for each course

Grade weight: +1.00 quality points

Criteria: Acceptance as an IB Diploma Candidate (approval of the IB Coordinator at RHS)

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTSAdvanced English 9 200007This advanced course is designed to prepare students for Advanced Placement English. Students learn to recognize various literary elements and techniques as they read critically. Students will complete a variety of projects based on other assigned readings. Emphasis on grammar provides excellent preparation for writing. Instruction in essay structure and style helps students with organization and expression. Vocabulary usage and spelling are studied for enrichment and mastery.

Advanced English 10 200011This advanced course is designed to prepare students for Advanced Placement English. Students read and write extensively and critically. The study of grammar, composition, early American literature up to 1900, and world literature that influenced the development of American literature integrates the four strands of language arts (listening, speaking, reading, and writing). College-level vocabulary is studied in preparation for the PSAT, the state-mandated ASPIRE, and other standardized tests. Students also prepare a research project based on current issues. Students read both fiction and nonfiction as they focus on annotating and analyzing close reading passages.

Advanced English 11 200015This advanced course is designed to prepare students for Advanced Placement English. Students read and write extensively and critically. The study of grammar, composition, early American literature up to 1900, and world literature that influenced the development of American literature integrates the four strands of language arts (listening, speaking, reading, and writing). College-level vocabulary is studied in preparation for the PSAT, the state-mandated ASPIRE, and other standardized tests. Students also prepare a research project based on current issues. Students read both fiction and nonfiction as they focus on annotating and analyzing close reading passages

Advanced English 12 200019

British literature from Anglo-Saxon time to the modern era is the foundation of this course. Students will read teacher-selected classics as well as self-selected fiction and nonfiction works to supplement assignments. Students will focus on honing their reading, writing, and communication skills to prepare for college or career after graduation. Students will be expected to apply their critical thinking and research skills within each unit.

AP Language & Composition200016

The Advanced Placement English Language and Composition course is a college-level course that follows the guidelines set forth by the College Board. This course has a heavy emphasis on writing; therefore, prior to enrolling in the course, students should have a firm grasp of English grammar and mechanics skills. AP English Language students write multiple argument, rhetorical analysis, and /or synthesis essays each month. AP English Language students read (independently) approximately one hundred pages a week from a wide variety of fiction and nonfiction texts, including works for mature readers. AP English Language students are also expected to engage in weekly discussion of the readings and to communicate their ideas effectively with their peers in whole group, small group, and online settings. According to the College Board, the purpose of this course is “to enable students to read complex texts with understanding and to write prose of sufficient richness and complexity to communicate effectively with mature readers. Because of the advanced nature of this course, the English department strongly recommends that prospective AP English Language students have successfully completed tenth grade Pre-AP English.

AP Literature & Composition 200020This college-level course emphasizes composition of formal essays in response to intensive study of literary works suggested by the College Board. Not limited to British literature, this course includes great works from world masters, both classic and modern. The student must study much of the material independently. A comprehensive independent research paper is required. The English department strongly recommends that students have experience in high school Pre- Advanced Placement English before enrolling in this course.

MATHEMATICSAdvanced Algebra I 210007

Algebra I is a formal, in-depth study of algebraic concepts and the real number system. Emphasis is placed on algebraic properties and operations needed to solve complex equations. This course focuses on the useful application of course content and on the development of student understanding of central concepts. Because of its importance in the development of mathematical empowerment, Algebra I is a diploma requirement for all students. Students must have a scientific calculator (TI-84 plus or a similar model recommended) in class every day.

Advanced Geometry 210012

Geometry provides students with knowledge about shapes and properties and assists with the development of spatial sense, critical for further study in mathematics and for everyday life. Because of its importance in the development of mathematical empowerment, this course is required for all students. This course includes consistent use of algebra to reinforce the skills and concepts developed in the Algebra I course. Course work provides an excellent context for developing students’ abilities to reason and write proofs. Problem solving skills in the development of geometric concepts are integrated throughout the course. Trigonometry is included to prepare students for development of circular function trigonometry in later courses. Students must have a scientific calculator (TI- 84 plus or a similar model recommended) in class every day.

Advanced Algebra II w/ Trig210017

Algebra II with Trigonometry is designed to extend an advanced math student’s algebraic knowledge of quadratic, polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, and rational functions and the use of probability to solve real-life problems. It also provides an in-depth study of trigonometry that will allow a student to pursue higher-level math courses such as Pre-calculus. Students must have a scientific calculator (TI-84 recommended) in class every day.

Pre-Calculus 210020

Pre-calculus is designed for those students who successfully completed Algebra II with Trigonometry. This curriculum includes an expanded study of conic sections, polynomial, rational, trigonometric, logarithmic and exponential functions, parametric and polar equations, and an introduction of Calculus. The use of graphing calculators will assist with numerical and graphical analysis. A graphing calculator (TI-84 plus or a similar model) is required.

AP Calculus/Workshop210020

This college-level course will cover the differential and integral calculus determined by the College Board. Students will take the AP Calculus AB examination in May to determine possible college credit for calculus. A graphing calculator is required, the TI-84 is highly recommended.

AP Statistics/Workshop 210028

This college-level course will cover major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data determined by the College Board. Students will take the AP Statistics examination in May to determine possible college credit for statistics. The TI-84 plus graphing calculator is required.

AP Computer Science Princ.260003

This college-level course is designed to actively engage students in the following topics: software creation, game design, 3D printing, and basic ideas behind technologies such as networking, the internet, and mobile devices. Other points of discussion will include but are not limited to robotics, creativity in computing, social uses and abuses of information, and the foundations of privacy.

SCIENCESAdvanced Biology 220013

Biology provides students with experiences that support the basic concepts and principles of life science. The content includes scientific method, scientific measurement, laboratory safety and use of laboratory apparatus, cellular biology, genetics, evolution, biological classification, microbiology, invertebrate zoology, vertebrate zoology, botany, and ecology. This is a required science course for the 9th Grade.

Advanced Chemistry 220063

Chemistry is a course dealing with the investigation of the properties, composition, and structure of matter; the changes that occur in matter; and the energy involved in these changes. The content includes classification and structure of matter, atomic theory, periodic table, bonding, chemical formulas, chemical reactions and balanced equations, behavior of gases, and acids, bases, and salts. This course satisfies the physical science requirement.

Advanced Physics 220073

Physics is a course dealing with the foundations of energy processes in nature. The content includes scientific measurement and problem solving, mechanics, sound, light, electricity, magnetism, and other concepts. This course satisfies the physical science requirement for a diploma.

Advanced Human Anatomy220027

Human Anatomy and Physiology is an advanced course in biological science dealing with the structure and function of each mammalian body system. The content includes anatomical terminology, metabolic processes, cells and tissues, and the systems of the body including skeletal, integumentary, muscular, nervous, endocrine, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, excretory, and reproductive. Through several required dissections, students will demonstrate their mastery of course content.

AP Biology/Workshop220014

This college level course is designed to be the equivalent of a general biology course usually taken during the first college year of a science major/pre-med major. The content includes molecules and cells, cellular genetics, heredity, molecular genetics, evolution, structure and function of plants and animals, and ecology.

AP Chemistry/Workshop 220064

This college level course is a rigorous and challenging course designed to be the equivalent of a general chemistry course taken in college. The content includes atomic theory and structure, bonding, gases, liquids and solids, solutions, reaction types, stoichiometry, equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamics, and descriptive chemistry.

AP Environmental Science 220033

AP environmental science is an interdisciplinary course exploring the complex relationships between humans and ecosystems. Conservation biology, social science, and environmental ethics will be introduced to illuminate contemporary environmental issues (specific topics will vary). The course will facilitate critical questioning about the proper relationship between humans and the natural world, while providing an introduction to the field of environmental studies. This course will provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them.

AP Physics220057

This course is the equivalent to a first-semester college course in algebra-based physics. The course emphasizes a deep conceptual understanding of physics knowledge and problem solving. It is assumed that the student is familiar with some algebra and trigonometry. The course covers Newtonian mechanics, energy, mechanical waves and sound, and electric circuits.

SOCIAL STUDIES Advanced World History 230015

World History and Geography since 1500 expands students' ability to think critically about the various forces that combined to shape the modern world. Since critical thinking and analysis are important in this course, asking questions about societies and comparing civilizations over time are essential. Through historical inquiry, students move beyond a focus on world history and geography as disjointed factual detail to an understanding and appreciation of history as an exciting story of people much like themselves at other times and places. This is a required social studies course for the 9th grade.

Advanced US History 230018

United States History and Geography to 1877 focuses on critical issues and events that encompass historic, geographic, economic, and political literacy. It is aimed at producing responsible citizens who have the ability to make informed decisions. The integration of disciplines--history, geography, economics, and government together with American literature--is necessary to show relationships, to present accurate and meaningful content, and to interpret past and present events and conditions. Concepts related to Alabama's history and geography are included in this chronological study of U.S. History. This is a required social studies course for the 10th grade.

AP US History 10 230022

Advanced Placement United States History is designed for an in-depth, college-level survey of American political, economic, and social trends from the Age of Exploration to present. Special emphasis will be given to writing essays on historical topics. Strong reading and writing skills are vital for success in this class. This course may be taken prior to A.P. European History in lieu of Early and Modern United States History. Students who complete this course are expected to take AP European History as a junior.

Advanced US History 11 230021

United States History and Geography: 1877 to present continues the study of United States History from the 10th grade course. The eleventh grade course focuses on twentieth century America. Knowledge and understanding gained during previous years of study provide a foundation for the critical analysis required in this course. This is a required social studies course for the 11th grade, unless AP US History is taken.

Advanced US Government 230043

American Government focuses on the nature of individual civic virtue and responsibility. In addition, students become knowledgeable about the structure and workings of government at all levels in the nation. The following topics are used as content organizers for American government: Representative Democracy, Federalism, Role of the Citizen in American Government, and an emphasis on the structure and function of the Federal Government. This is a required social studies course for the 12th grade. This is a semester course.

Advanced Economics 230053

Economics includes the study of the workings and institutions of modern-day economic systems. The study of economics includes the use and interpretation of charts, graphs, tables, and other expressions of statistical data. The following topics are included in Economics: Basic Economic Concepts, Business and Labor Relations, Monetary and Fiscal Policy, and Comparison of World Economic Systems. This is a required social studies course for the 12th grade. This is a semester course.

AP US Government 230047

Semester course. Advanced Placement United States Government will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. This college level course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific examples. Extensive, careful reading is required and students will write papers to analyze issues. This is a .5 credit course that must be paired with AP Economics

AP Economics 230054

AP Economics emphasizes economic principals as applied to the economy as a whole. This includes college-level course analysis of national income and its components, economic indicators, inflation and unemployment, money and banking, stabilization policies, and the United States and world trade. This is a .5 credit course that must be paired with AP United States Government.

HEALTHHealth 250002

This course provides students with essential life management skills to enhance the quality of personal and family life. The content includes positive emotional development of self and others; nutrition; consumer education and resource management; substance abuse; hazards of smoking; cancer detection; cardiopulmonary resuscitation; role of family in personal development; decision-making and coping skills; public and private agencies and services affecting individuals, families; and abstinence education. This course meets the state requirement for health education. This is a semester course.

PHYSICAL EDUCATIONLife PE 240002Students are expected to complete the LIFE requirement as a sophomore. The course may be taken the summer prior to grade 10, or summer immediately following grade 10. This course is designed to be a blueprint for a lifetime of healthy living. Through a variety of physical activities, the course will help students develop and maintain an individual level of fitness. The skills and knowledge acquired will serve to develop an active and healthful lifestyle. This course meets state diploma requirements for Physical Education graduation standards. This is a year-long course.

JROTC I 480001

This is the recommended first course for all new cadets. Throughout the course, there are readings, videos, hands-on activities, and in-text and student workbook exercises to guide in the reinforcement of the materials. The course introduces cadets to the Army JROTC program providing a basis for progression through the rest of the Army JROTC program while instilling elements of good citizenship, character, individual self-control, proper attitude, and respect and leadership principles. Wellness is the third component of the program teaching the importance of a life-long approach to physical fitness, proper nutrition, and mental well-being. This is a year-long course.

JROTC II 480002The culture course studies focuses upon the World’s History, Geography and varying cultures divided into global regions and societies. The leadership course introduces cadets to communication, awareness, and leadership interactions, stressing communication skills and cadet corps activities. Wellness is the third component of the program teaching the importance of

a life-long approach to physical fitness, proper nutrition, and mental well-being. This is a year-long course.

JROTC III 480029The course educates cadets on Life Skills and Career Opportunities, assisting students on deciding which path to take after high school. Information on how to apply for admission to college or to a vocational or technical school is included. Information on how to begin the job search is available to students who decide not to go to college or vocational school. Available also is information about financial planning and how to save, invest, and spend money wisely, as well as how not to get caught in the credit trap. Students are informed about real life issues. Wellness is the third component of the program, teaching the importance of a life-long approach to physical fitness, proper nutrition, and mental well-being. This is a year-long course.

Army JROTC Drill I 480030

This course presents advanced management techniques, management decisions, management functions of planning, mentoring, and leading fellow cadets. Senior cadets will help plan, coordinate and execute corps activities. The course discusses the Principals of Management, providing exposure to the fundamentals of personnel and program management. Wellness is the third component of the program, teaching the importance of a life-long approach to physical fitness, proper nutrition, and mental well-being. This is a year-long course.

JROTC 2B (Color Guard)

JROTC 4B (Rifle)

CAREER-READY COURSESCareer Preparedness 40025

The Career Preparedness course focuses on three integrated areas of instruction—academic planning and career development, financial literacy, and technology. Mastery of the content standards provides a strong foundation for student acquisition of the skills, attitudes, and knowledge that empowers students to achieve success academically, professionally, and personally. As a part of this course, students must pass a computer literacy proficiency test that is administered starting the summer before the ninth grade year. Students are encouraged to fulfill this obligation as early as possible. This course is a requirement for graduation for all students entering ninth grade in 2013-2014 and later. This is a one credit course taught for one semester.

FOREIGN LANGUAGEFrench I 270023

This introductory course stresses all four components of language acquisition– reading, writing, listening and speaking. Students are introduced to formulaic conversational expressions and thematic vocabulary. In order to obtain proficiency, students will learn the foundations of French grammar. This class is cumulative, and students are expected to review frequently in order to build greater fluency. Both oral and written assessments are given.

Spanish I 270153

Spanish I is a cumulative course that introduces the language to students and builds the grammatical and conversational foundation for future language study. Methods for memorization and language acquisition are presented. The language is presented and practiced through all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. Students also study culture of Spanish-speaking countries.

French II 270024

French II continues to emphasize the four components of language acquisition – reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will develop their fluency in each of these areas by learning and applying more advanced grammatical structures and vocabulary. As in French I, this class is cumulative, and students are expected to review frequently. Both oral and written assessments are given in the context of real-life scenarios.

Spanish II 270154

Spanish II is a cumulative course that continues the study of language begun in previous classes. More opportunities to develop conversational ability are given so that students may learn to function effectively with the spoken language. Grammatical study is reviewed and expanded. The study of Hispanic literature written in Spanish is begun. The language is presented through all four language skills: speaking, listening, reading and writing. This course proceeds at a faster pace than Spanish I.

French III 270025 This advanced French course continues to focus on language proficiency and the use of language skills within the three modes of communication. 1) Interpersonal Communication: Engaging in conversations, expressing ideas, and exchanging opinions using both spoken and written language. 2) Interpretive Communication: Understanding and interpreting written and spoken language on a variety of topics. 3) Presentational Communication: Presenting information and ideas to an audience using spoken and written language.

Spanish III 270155This advanced Spanish course continues to focus on language proficiency and the use of language skills within the three modes of communication. 1) Interpersonal Communication: Engaging in conversations, expressing ideas, and exchanging opinions using both spoken and written language. 2) Interpretive Communication: Understanding and interpreting written and spoken language on a variety of topics. 3) Presentational Communication: Presenting information and ideas to an audience using spoken and written language.

ELECTIVESLaw and Society

410023

This course is designed to acquaint students with the basic legal principles common to business and personal activities. Topics include a study of the history of our judicial system, federal and state court systems, law enforcement, criminal law, tort law, consumer and contract law, employment law, real estate law, and student rights and responsibilities.

Advanced BTA

This course provides students with project-based applications of concepts learned in BTA. This course consists of an integrated, comprehensive set of problems relating to project scenarios. Students apply advanced concepts and skills to create solutions to the problems using Word, PowerPoint, Excel, and Access.

Multimedia Design 802209

Students will design and create a variety of multimedia projects for use on the school and athletic websites, as well as, school social media outlets. Students will work with graphic design, digital photography, and digital video production using various software programs. These projects will be used to promote different school activities, programs, and sports teams. Please note this course includes required after school filming of school and sporting events. This is a semester course.

Multimedia Publications 410017

This course provides students with a basic overview of television production skills and professions. Students participate in classroom and laboratory activities regarding all aspects of television: performance, production, and operations. Upon successful completion of this course, students are prepared for further study in broadcasting.

Accounting470012

This course is designed to help students understand the basic principles of the accounting cycle. Emphasis is placed on analyzing and recording business transactions; preparing and interpreting financial statements, accounting systems, banking and payroll activities; identifying basic types of business ownership; and participating in an orientation to careers in accounting. Students use online working papers and Microsoft Excel to record accounting transactions and prepare financial statements. This course is encouraged for students interested in pursuing a major in accounting, business, or finance.

Bank and Finance

The curriculum focuses on areas of study that address personal financial planning, financial services, budgeting, investments, insurance protection, credit management, consumer purchases, and consumer rights and responsibilities.

Street Law802209

This course is intended for any student interested in pursuing a career in law, criminal justice, business, or maybe a student who is interested in the legal system. This course is designed to acquaint students with basic legal principles common to business and personal activities. It provides an overview of criminal, civic contract, and consumer law. Topics include: evaluating contracts, purchasing appropriate insurance, and interpreting state and federal criminal law. This is a semester course.

Marching/Symphonic Band290031

This course is an instrumental music instruction encompassing marching, concert, and solo and ensemble training as well as intermediate music fundamentals. The physical requirements of this course enhance motor skill development and improve overall physical fitness. This is a year-long course.

Beginning Band 280031Concert Band

This course is a year-long commitment. These groups are performing ensembles that focus on individual instrumental skill as well as ensemble playing. All incoming 9th grade students will participate in Beginning/Concert Band. Some after school rehearsals and concerts are required.

Piano Lab

This course is designed for students who have an interest in learning basic skill on the piano. In this class, the student will learn to read and write music, as well as compose and improvise. In addition to keyboard skills, students will study basic knowledge of music theory and music history.

Beginning Orchestra 280031

Advanced Orchestra

Choir I 280051

This course is a foundations building choir in which students focus on the fundamentals of singing and music. Students will have the opportunity to experience several performance and travel opportunities. Students taking this class will be required to rent a choral uniform, to attend out of school performances and limited out of school rehearsals.

Concert Choir 280059

This course requires previous musical experience and a proficient amount of musical skills. This class is a wonderful opportunity for the serious choral student. Students will be expected to work independently, as well as in groups. Students will have the opportunity to experience several performance and travel opportunities. Students taking this class will be required to rent a choral uniform, to attend out of school performances and limited out of school rehearsals.

Art Fundamentals 280093

This class introduces the elements of art and the principles of design. Students will focus on the techniques of drawing. Many different mediums will be included to further the students drawing skills. This class will also include art history, art criticism, and aesthetics. This is a semester course.

Specialized Art

This course is geared toward students who have an interest in the visual Arts and desire a semester course or plan on taking multiple years of art. It will provide students with a strong foundation in the fundamental theories, design principles, techniques and history of Arts. Students will work both two and three dimensionally in drawing, painting, ceramics, printmaking and sculpture to develop a working knowledge that is essential in developing critical thinking and problem solving skills. A study of major artists and art movements, as well as art criticism and evaluation, will be emphasized in this course.

AP Art

This college-level course is a fast-paced course in which students will produce a minimum of one piece of art per week, along with sketch work and research. AP Studio Art is equivalent to an introductory college art course and students who take this class should complete their assignments with a high level of commitment and rigor. Many hours of outside research and development are required. In addition, students must purchase many of the art tools and materials that will be used throughout the year. Students will produce a digital portfolio to be submitted for evaluation by the College Board, thus possibly earning college credit.

AP Studio Art 280102

This is a college-level course in which students wishing to explore a drawing theme in depth are encouraged to AP Studio Art: Drawing. Students must demonstrate skill in the areas of composition, design elements, and the principles of design. Students will continue the deconstruction and re-contextualizing of the visual image and develop a body of work that represents an in-depth investigation of their chosen theme. In preparation for the AP exam, digital portfolios are developed and organized over the course of the year. Work done previous years, and outside of art class can also be considered. Portfolios include 5 original best works, 12 concentration images, and 12 breadth images. A written commentary is included to explain the development of the concentration. Students are required to have their own digital cameras and thumb drives for digital storage. Photoshop Elements is used with downloaded images. This is a year-long course.

Dance I 280011

The purpose of this course is to provide the student with opportunities to experience dance technique in basic dance styles. The course content may include technique and choreographed compositions in Basic Ballet, Jazz, Tap and character or Musical Comedy. The physical requirements of this course enhance motor skill development and improve overall physical fitness. The class is designed to give students a dance vocabulary as well as a dance movement foundation. Students will participate in performances such as, the Holiday Spectacular and/or the Spring Dance Recital. This class may be taken as a semester course or a yearlong course.

Dance II 280012

The purpose of this course is to continue the progression of skill and technique mastery to the next level. The student will learn to perfect expression and increasingly difficult skills in his/her performance. Students will choreograph and teach in new styles of dance. The physical requirements of this course enhance motor skill development and improves overall physical fitness. Students will participate in the Holiday Spectacular and the Spring Dance Recital. There will be a fee for costumes. This class may count for LIFE credit. This is a year-long course.

Dance III 280013

This course is offered to students who have completed Dance I and Dance II. This course will allow students to explore dance composition in depth. Students will learn about different methods of choreography and about famous choreographers. The elements of dance and improvisation will be used in the class. Dance attire will be required. Students are expected to perform at their technical level on a daily basis.

Creative Writing200033

This course is an elective that takes students through a journey of discovery using words. Not only will we read short stories, excerpts of novels, children's books, poetry, and flash fiction, but we will also try our hand at writing in some of those genres. We will also study music- the lyrics and sound, movie dialogue, and comedy- what makes something funny. Lastly, students will learn how to be reflective and articulate their discoveries through words. In this class, words drive us to discover who we are and who we want to become. This is a year-long course.

Ethnic Literature 200031

This course will examine the significance of a specifically African American literary tradition in shaping both the identities and the histories of the myriad people of African descent in the United States. We will begin by positioning African American literature within an American literary history. Specifically, we will be considering the ways in which the models of storytelling that shape African American narratives. We will closely consider verbal and literary modes, including: African retentions, oral traditions, signifying, folklore, and music, have created a unique African American literary voice, and have affected both African Americans’ understandings of themselves, as well as the ways in which they have historically been understood in the American popular imagination. We will be interrogating not only the historical and political contexts of the works, but also the ways in which issues of gender, sexuality, and class specifically inform the works.

Debate 200045

The course is designed for students who wish to develop or further skills for public, organized debate. This class especially focuses on formally debating social ideas and philosophical concepts as they apply to the society. An interest in research, current events, politics, news, etc., is a must. Students involved in the competitive forensics program will develop skills in research, communication, interpretation, rhetoric, and critical thinking that can be applied to all subject areas and career paths. All are required to compete each grading period. This course may be taken as a semester or year-long course.

Public Speaking 200042

This is an exploratory course that exposes students to public speaking and debate events. Students will develop speaking skills by actively participating in classroom speeches and debates of varying types. Students in this course will be exposed to competitive speech and debate events, such as interpretation of literature, public forum debates, Lincoln Douglas debates, and team cross-examination debates.

ACT Prep (Writing) 802209

This one semester course is recommended for juniors and 1st semester seniors. This course prepares students for the ACT test by helping them understand the format of the test and the types of tests questions. Students will learn strategies to answer the questions correctly and improve time management. Students will identify areas of weakness and work to strengthen those areas. Students will frequently take practice tests and review the answers to continue to improve their performances on the ACT. It is suggested that students take the PSAT and the PLAN prior to beginning this class. This is a semester course.

Psychology230071

Introduction to Psychology is designed to introduce students to the field of Psychology. Students will explore a variety of topics some of which include: abnormal psychology, treatment of psychological disorders, sensation and perception, memory, and states of consciousness. This course is filled with activities. This is a semester course.

Family & Consumer Science510004

This course content provides opportunities for students to explore the core content included in the Family Studies and Community Services; Early Childhood Development; Fashion; Interior Design; Food, Wellness, and Dietetics; and Consumer Sciences pathways. Major topics are marriage and family life, parenting and care giving, consumer sciences, apparel, housing, food and nutrition, and technology and careers. Students will have the opportunity to earn a course-specific credential and affiliate with the student organization of this course. This is a year-long course.

Foods & Nutrition 510012

Topics for this course include the impact of daily nutrition and wellness practices as long-term health and wellness; physical, social, and psychological aspects of healthy nutrition and wellness choices; and selection and preparation of nutritious meals and snacks based on the recommendation of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Content includes: Dietary Guidelines and Food Guide Pyramid; safety, sanitation, storage, and recycling processes and issues associated with nutrition and wellness; impacts of science and technology on nutrition and wellness issues; and nutrition and wellness career paths. Students will have the opportunity to earn a course-specific credential and affiliate with the student organization for this course.

Fashion Merchandising 410015

Fashion Merchandising is a one-credit course for students who are interested in the fashion and retail industry. Content provides opportunities for students to explore factors related to the retail industry, examine structure and organization of fashion business operations, study merchandising techniques, utilize technology in fashion merchandising, and explore career options in fashion and retail industries. Students will have the opportunity to

earn a course specific credential and affiliate with the student organization for this course; this is a year-long course.

Theatre I 280071

Objectives covered include: (PRODUCE) Identifying basic elements of theatrical training, describing the acting process, and identifying basic components of staging a production; (RESPOND) Using appropriate theatre vocabulary; and (UNDERSTAND) Identifying ways the arts influence and are influenced by culture and politics and using theatre skills to communicate ideas from other curriculum areas. This is a semester course

Theatre II

This is a year-long course with an emphasis on performance. Students are involved in aspects of the production process, from acting, designing, playwriting, and directing. Students continue to study theatre history, criticism, and various methods of staging, scoring parts, and exploring the physical and psychological aspects of characterization.

ACCESS COURSESWeb Design I 260005

Students in this course will use computers and technology to gain proficiency in graphics and web design. Projects will include web pages for personal and educational use. Additional topics will include HTML coding, graphic design and manipulation, electronic correspondence, internet literacy, multimedia authoring, and open source alternatives. Students will be expected to explain and model appropriate technology ethics. Software includes: Adobe Creative Suite (Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Flash, Fireworks), and Open Source Alternatives.

Web Design II 260006

Students in this course will use computers and technology to gain advanced skills in graphics and web design. This class is project based and students will have the opportunity to choose individual project topics. Topics covered in this class will include advanced HTML coding, advanced graphics manipulation, e-commerce practices, web site management and commercial implementation. At the conclusion of this class students will be able to create commercially viable websites and present themselves to the public in a professional, business-like manner. Students will be expected to explain and model appropriate technology ethics. Software includes: Adobe Creative Suite (Dreamweaver, Photoshop, Flash, Fireworks), and Open Source Alternatives

BTA

This course is designed to help students develop skills using Microsoft Office. The skills learned in Microsoft Office acquaint students with the proper procedures to create documents, worksheets, databases, and presentations suitable for coursework, professional purpose and personal use. Touch typing, internet and email are also covered.

Latin I 270111

Students will develop an introductory level ability to read and understand the Latin language. Through reading, writing, and translating to Latin, students will acquire knowledge of Latin grammar and vocabulary. Latin

readings will be set in context with explorations of Greco-Roman mythology, Roman history and daily life in ancient Rome.

Accounting 470012

This course is designed to help students understand the basic principles of the accounting cycle. Emphasis is placed on analyzing and recording business transactions; preparing and interpreting financial statements, accounting systems, banking and payroll activities; identifying basic types of business ownership; and participating in an orientation to careers in accounting. Students use online working papers and Microsoft Excel to record accounting transactions and prepare financial statements. This course is encouraged for students interested in pursuing a major in accounting, business, or finance.

Creative Writing200033

This course is an elective that takes students through a journey of discovery using words. Not only will we read short stories, excerpts of novels, children's books, poetry, and flash fiction, but we will also try our hand at writing in some of those genres. We will also study music- the lyrics and sound, movie dialogue, and comedy- what makes something funny. Lastly, students will learn how to be reflective and articulate their discoveries through words. In this class, words drive us to discover who we are and who we want to become. This is a year-long course.

Psychology 230071

Introduction to Psychology is designed to introduce students to the field of Psychology. Students will explore a variety of topics some of which include: abnormal psychology, treatment of psychological disorders, sensation and perception, memory, and states of consciousness. This course is filled with activities. This is a semester course.

Sociology 230081This introduction to sociology is designed to provide a foundation that will enable students to understand people and interact with the world in which they live. Emphasis is on cultural change, problems in the society, and the

relationship between various groups in society as a whole: age difference, minority relations, social classes, poverty, and the family. This is a semester course.

Personal Finance 400022

The curriculum focuses on areas of study that address personal financial planning, financial services, budgeting, investments, insurance protection, credit management, consumer purchases, and consumer rights and responsibilities.

Nutrition and Wellness

Topics for this course include the impact of daily nutrition and wellness practices as long-term health and wellness; physical, social, and psychological aspects of healthy nutrition and wellness choices; and selection and preparation of nutritious meals and snacks based on the recommendation of the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). Content includes: Dietary Guidelines and Food Guide Pyramid; safety, sanitation, storage, and recycling processes and issues associated with nutrition and wellness; impacts of science and technology on nutrition and wellness issues; and nutrition and wellness career paths. Students will have the opportunity to earn a course-specific credential and affiliate with the student organization for this course.