Grades 9–12

English 1A: Students explore reading, writing, and analysis using informational and literary texts and comparing texts in different mediums. Readings include The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald, among others, to demonstrate an understanding of textual evidence, themes, central ideas, inferences, word choice, figurative and connotative language, and grammar and usage. Writings include a personal narrative (memoir) and a literary analysis.

English 1B: Students explore reading, writing, and analysis using informational and literary texts. Lessons include Anthem by Ayn Rand, among other works from varying periods, that demonstrate concepts such as textual evidence, themes, central ideas, characters, inferences, rhetorical techniques, structure and style, and arguments and claims. Writing topics include grammar, usage, punctuation, spelling, style manuals, phrases, and clauses, culminating in informational and argument essays.

ENGLISH 2

English 2A: English 2A examines reading, writing, and analysis of informational texts, argument texts, and videos to demonstrate understanding of explicit and inferred meaning, textual evidence, central ideas, arguments and claims, organizational structures, figurative and rhetorical language, and the effect of word choice on tone. Skill building focuses on spelling, grammar, usage, punctuation, domain-specific vocabulary, context clues, and affixes. Writing topics include an informational essay and an argument essay.

English 2B: English 2B explores reading, writing, and analysis of literary texts worldwide and throughout history. Readings include Antigone by Sophocles, among others, that demonstrate an understanding of textual evidence, themes, inferences, characterization, figurative language, figures of speech, and literary devices, as well as building a foundational knowledge of context clues, word nuances, affixes, phrases, clauses, and parallel construction. Writing topics include a literary analysis essay and a personal narrative essay.

ENGLISH 3

English 3A: English 3A examines reading, writing, and analysis using informational and argument texts. Readings include seminal US texts such as “What to the Slave Is the Fourth of July?” by Frederick Douglass, speeches, court documents, and scientific articles to explore textual evidence, central ideas, inferences, word choice, figurative language, spelling, hyphens, contested usage, figures of speech, and reference materials. Writing topics include a researched informational essay and a researched argument essay.

English 3B: English 3B explores reading, writing, and analysis using informational and literary texts. Readings include poetry and drama, such as The Crucible by Arthur Miller, demonstrating literary elements of plot, setting, character, themes, and central ideas. Comparing works from different periods, reviewing context and word nuances, and learning about punctuation, style manuals, phrases, clauses, and parallel structure to improve reading and writing skills. Writing topics include a fictional narrative and a literary analysis.

ENGLISH 4

English 4A: English 4A explores the analysis of informational and argument texts. Readings include seminal US

texts such as the Declaration of Independence, presidential speeches, court documents, and articles related to innovative technology to demonstrate rhetoric, figurative language, theme, purpose, specialized vocabulary, text structure, word nuances, inferences, research, evidence, and reference sources. In addition, students learn about context clues, contested usage, and syntax errors. Writings include a researched informational essay and a researched argument essay.

English 4B: English 4B analyzes narrative texts from British literature—from the Middle Ages through modern times. Demonstrated skills include explicit and implicit meanings, figurative language, literary devices, central ideas, themes, and narrative and structural elements. Writings include a fictional narrative in the style of Gothic Romanticism and a literary analysis comparing and contrasting two British literature texts of different eras.

ALGEBRA 1

Semester A introduces students to the world of Algebra through expressions and equations. Students will evaluate algebraic expressions, solve linear equations, and graph them. This course also steers students through various real-world scenarios, emphasizing the use of basic statistics to interpret the information given and found. Students learn through online lesson materials, videos, and interactive activities. The end of each unit tests students’ understanding with a self-check quiz with feedback. Also included is a unit exam and project for students to apply what they have learned. Teachers provide feedback throughout the semester.

Semester B builds on the concepts learned in the first semester by providing a solid problem-solving foundation. Students will work with problems and applications that involve exponents, quadratic equations, polynomials and factoring methods, rational and radical equations, data analysis, and probability. Students will interact with course materials through online lessons, videos, interactive questions, and real-world applications. Each unit ends with a self-check quiz to confirm knowledge of the concepts learned. There is also a unit exam and project. Teachers provide feedback throughout the course.

ALGEBRA 2

This course further extends the learner’s understanding of major algebra concepts. It prepares them with the building blocks to dive deeper into trigonometry, pre-calculus, advanced probability, and statistics. Topics include radicals, quadratic functions and equations, polynomials, rationals, systems of equations and inequalities, exponents and logarithms, sequences and series, probability and statistics, and trigonometry.

CONSUMER MATH

This course focuses on the mathematics involved in making wise consumer decisions. Students explore the many ways in which mathematics affects their daily lives. The first semester will cover paychecks and wages, taxes, insurance, budgets, bank accounts, credit cards, interest calculations, and comparison shopping. Second-semester topics include vehicle and home purchasing, investing, and business and employee management.

GEOMETRY

Semester A – Geometry is the study of the measurement of the world. What makes Geometry so engaging is the relationship of figures and measures to each other and how these relationships can predict results in the world around us. Through practical applications, the student sees how geometric reasoning provides insight into everyday life. The course begins with the tools needed in Geometry. From these foundations, the student explores the measure of line segments, angles, and two-dimensional figures. Students will learn about similarity, triangles, and trigonometric ratios. Geometry A consists of six modules. Each module comprises ten lessons for 60 lessons in the course.

Semester B – This course builds on the foundation of the first terms in Geometry. As in previous courses, problem-solving techniques are applied to real-world problems, emphasizing deductive and inductive reasoning. Students explore quadrilaterals and circles, learn how objects transform, and how to represent that transformation algebraically and geometrically. Students calculate the area and volume of 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional objects. Geometry B consists of six modules. Each module comprises ten lessons for 60 lessons in the course.

PRE-CALCULUS

In this course, students will understand and apply concepts, graphs, and applications of various function families, including polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, logistic, and trigonometric. Using appropriate functions to model real-world situations and solve problems arising from those situations is emphasized. A focus is also on graphing functions by hand and understanding and identifying the parts of a graph. A scientific or graphics calculator is recommended to work on assignments and examinations. Pre-Calculus Part B covers the major units of Introductory Trigonometry and Graphs, Trigonometric Equations and Identities, Analytical Trigonometry, Sequences and Series, Conic Sections, and an Introduction to Calculus. A focus is also on graphing functions by hand and understanding and identifying the parts of a graph.

AMERICAN HISTORY

Semester A: Creation of a Nation – This course covers the discovery, development, and growth of the United States. Major topics include American Indian cultures, European colonization of the Americas, and the causes and effects of the American Revolution. Students will explore the geographical, economic, and political factors that contributed to the growth of the United States of America. American History I is a survey of the struggle to build the United States of America from the colonial period to the beginning of the twentieth century. Students appreciate the forces that shaped our history and character as Americans through reading, analyzing, and applying historical data. Not only are the topics of American history discussed, but students also explore research methods and determine accurate data sources from the past. Knowing the facts and dates of history is just the beginning: each student must understand how history affects them.

Semester B: Expansion of a Nation – American History B begins with a study of American life before the 1929 Stock Market crash and how the Roaring Twenties influenced society in the late 19th through early 20th centuries. Students will examine the causes and consequences of the Great Depression and move on into a detailed study of World War II, emphasizing America’s role in the conflict. The course analyzes the Cold War struggle and America’s rise as a superpower. Students will examine the Civil Rights and Women’s Rights movements, pollution, the environment, and American domestic and foreign policy. The course concludes with a summary of current events and issues, including a study of the Middle East. This course begins with an assessment of life in the United States pre-World War I and ends with the conflicts of the new millennium. Students look at the nation regarding economic, social, and political trends. They will explore a summary of experiences from the past century, including civil rights issues that have engulfed the nation in conflict. The course will examine how the United States became a superpower within a global framework.

AMERICAN GOVERNMENT

This course will guide students through an in-depth study of the American government’s history, structure, and guiding principles. The first unit will review the origins of government in general and American government in particular—from the earliest models for democracy to the founding documents that created a federalist system of government in the U.S. Several units will help students explore the roles and responsibilities of each branch of government as well as the impact that the Constitution has had and continues to have on the way government works and on the lives of individual Americans. The course’s final unit will guide students through a series of projects that require them to apply what they have learned about the American government to an issue that interests them.

WORLD HISTORY

Semester A – World History begins with a focus on the skills needed to read, understand, and analyze history, demonstrating how historians and social scientists arrive at their conclusions about human history. Semester A covers the history of civilization from hunter-gatherer societies through the characteristics of the earliest civilizations to the Enlightenment period in Western Europe. The second half of Semester A explores early intellectual, spiritual, and political movements and their impact on interactions among world cultures.

Semester B – Semester B applies the reading and analytical strategies introduced in Semester A to the events and movements that created the modern world. In the second semester, World History emphasizes the effects of the Industrial Revolution, changing attitudes about science and religion, and the impact of European colonization. Students are encouraged to make connections between World War I and II and events related to the Cold War and between 19th-century imperialism and modern independence movements.

ECONOMICS

This course introduces the principles and the applications of economics in everyday life. Students develop an understanding of limited resources and compare them with unlimited wants and needs. Students learn how to allocate goods and services among competing users by studying individual and national economic decision-making. Students apply economic principles to think and problem-solve. The study of Economics uses the view of financial institutions and policies to explore the history, organization, and functions of the U.S. government in controlling our economy. It offers students learning opportunities that build one on another. A goal of the course is for the student to develop the critical skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation in a demanding and thoughtful academic setting. Students are encouraged to use their knowledge of the policies and institutions of economics to develop their views on current economic and monetary issues. They will learn to apply what they have learned to personal financial activities. The course looks closely at the economic knowledge and values of the country and gives students a look into the problems faced by presidents and congressional representatives. It also covers the roles of political activists, political parties, interest groups, and the media in shaping the U.S. economy. The course will present The Supreme Court as the voice of reason in the balance of powers. Students will learn to perform at higher levels by engaging with primary sources, analyzing thematically organized facts, developing note-taking skills, and actively participating in discussions. Students develop and demonstrate their writing skills by preparing extended research-based papers.

CHEMISTRY

Semester A – In this course, students will discover what chemistry is and how it is used and found around us. They will investigate the importance of the scientific method to solve real-world problems. Students will gain knowledge in the following areas: types of matter, atomic structure, chemical periodicity, chemical formula writing and naming, and chemical equations. This course will also stress the vital relationship between math and science while studying measurement, the metric system, and stoichiometry. Students will use higher-order thinking throughout the entire course. Given the quantity and complexity of mathematical concepts involved, it is advisable to have a background in algebra.

Semester B – It follows the Chemistry 1 A course. In Chemistry 1 B, students will investigate chemical bonding, thermochemistry, and acids and bases. They will examine the importance of the scientific method to solve real-world problems. Students will gain knowledge in the following areas: organic chemistry, biochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. This course will also stress the vital relationship between math and science. Students will use higher-order thinking throughout the semester. Given the quantity and complexity of mathematical concepts involved, it is advisable to have a background in algebra.

PHYSICS

Semester A – Students begin their exploration of physics by reviewing the International System of Units (SI), scientific notation, and significant digits. They then learn to describe and analyze motion in one and two dimensions. Students learn about gravity and Newton’s laws of motion before concluding the course with an examination of circular motion. Students apply mathematical concepts such as graphing and trigonometry to solve physics problems. Throughout the course, students use their understanding of physics by playing roles like science museum curator and elementary teacher.

Semester B – Physics B continues the student’s exploration of mechanics while guiding them through some other essential physics topics. Students begin by exploring simple harmonic motion, wave properties, and optics. Students then learn the basics of thermodynamics and fluids. Afterward, the students explore the principles of electricity and magnetism. Finally, students explore the area of physics known as Modern Physics, which includes topics such as the photoelectric effect, nuclear science, and relativity. This course is trig-based. It is assumed you know and can use trigonometry.

ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY

Semester A – This course aims to expand upon what was learned in your Biology class while emphasizing the application of this material to human structures and functions. This course begins the study of human beings at the microscopic level and works its way up to an in-depth analysis of select organ systems. The course emphasizes applying and demonstrating the information learned in this course, not just through tests and quizzes but also through collaborative projects.

Semester B – Part B will teach students how structure and function relate to the human body. Students will study the human body from the cellular level to the organ system level. They will explore all the major body systems in great detail. Additionally, they will study biochemistry, cell biology, histology, biotechnology, bioethics, and pathology. Students who plan to pursue a career in science or healthcare are strongly advised to take this course.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

Semester A – The first three modules of Semester 1 cover Scientific Inquiry, the Structure and Composition of the Universe, and the Features of the Solar System. Students learn the importance of scientific inquiry and how to communicate the results of scientific investigations. They then have material on the universe’s formation, including the Big Bang Theory, the motions of celestial objects, and stellar evolution. The third module covers material related to the Solar System, including features of the Sun and the planets and the movements of Earth. The second three modules of Semester 1 cover Weather, Climate, and Earth’s Water Cycle. Students first learn in Module 4 about the atmosphere and clouds and the factors that influence local and global climate. In Module 5, they continue learning about weather, air masses, meteorology, and storms. Module 6 then discusses the water cycle, including groundwater, ocean features, and water scarcity and pollution.

Semester B – The first three modules of Semester 2 cover the physical structure of the Earth and Earth’s tectonic system, including the rock cycle, tectonic activity, and mountain building. It then covers weathering erosion and soil formation. The following material in the course then addresses the concept of systems; it addresses the Earth as a system, feedback in systems, and the Earth’s primary nutrient cycles. The second three modules of Semester 2 cover geologic history, including the evolution of Earth’s atmosphere, the geologic time scale, and the fossil record. It then goes over natural resources and the effects of human population on natural resources. The course concludes by discussing human society and its interconnectedness with the Earth’s environment, how science and technology work together, and the technological design process in earth science applications.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE

Semester A – This course introduces the Physical Sciences and scientific methodology. The objectives are to impart a basic knowledge of matter’s physical properties and chemistry. Skills are developed in the classroom and reinforced through homework reading and interesting labs relating to everyday life.

Semester B – This course introduces the Physical Sciences and scientific methodology. The objectives are to impart a basic knowledge of matter’s physical properties and chemistry. Skills are developed in the classroom and reinforced through homework reading and interesting labs relating to everyday life.

American Sign Language (1 credit)

Semester A

Did you know that American Sign Language (ASL) is North America’s third most commonly used language? American Sign Language 1a: Introduction will introduce you to vocabulary and simple sentences so you can start communicating immediately. Importantly, you will explore Deaf culture – social beliefs, traditions, history, values, and communities influenced by deafness.

Semester B

The predominant sign language of Deaf communities in the United States, American Sign Language, is complex and robust. American Sign Language 1b: Learn to Sign will introduce you to more of this language and its grammatical structures. You will expand your vocabulary by exploring interesting topics like Deaf education and Deaf arts and culture.

Anatomy & Physiology (1 credit)

Semester A

This course aims to expand upon what was learned in your Biology class while emphasizing the application of this material to human structures and functions. This course begins the study of human beings at the microscopic level and works its way up to an in-depth analysis of select organ systems. Using tests, quizzes, projects, and collaboration will demonstrate learning in this course.

Semester B

Part B Will teach students how structure and function relate to the human body. The student will study the human body from the cellular level to the organ system level. The course will cover all the major body systems in great detail. Additionally, students will study biochemistry, cell biology, histology, biotechnology, bioethics, and pathology. This course is highly recommended for students seeking a career in science or a health-related profession.

*Prerequisites: Biology and Physical Science

Art Appreciation (½ credit)

What makes an artwork a masterpiece? Why do artists create art? What is the difference between Rococo and Art Nouveau? In this course, students will discover the answers to these questions and more. We examine the elements of art and design principles and explore how artists have used these elements and principles in creating art for centuries.

Art History (½ credit)

This Art History course integrates the four components of art study: art production, historical and cultural context, critical process, and aesthetic process. Students will learn to identify and describe art from prehistoric to modern times. Throughout this course, students will discuss various artworks and research artists and create documents and presentations demonstrating concepts learned.

Career Planning (½ credit)

The Career Planning course guides students through the essential elements of the career planning process and the development of a defined career plan. Students will consider the many factors that impact career success and satisfaction. Using a method of investigation, research, and self-discovery, students will acquire the understandings critical to the career planning process. Upon completion of the course, students will have created a practical and comprehensive college or career transition portfolio that reflects their skills and abilities, as well as their interests, values, and goals.

Chemistry (1 credit)

Semester A

In this course, students will discover chemistry and how it is used and found around us. They will learn the importance of the scientific method to solve real-world problems. The course will examine the following areas: types of matter, atomic structure, chemical periodicity, chemical formula writing and naming, and chemical equations. This course will also stress the vital relationship between math and science while studying measurement, the metric system, and stoichiometry. Students will use higher-order thinking throughout the entire course. An algebra background is recommended because of the amount and type of math involved.

Semester B

It follows the Chemistry 1 A course. In Chemistry 1 B, students will investigate chemical bonding, thermochemistry, and acids and bases. They will learn the importance of the scientific method to solve real-world problems. The course will examine the following areas: organic chemistry, biochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. This course will also stress the vital relationship between math and science. Students will use higher-order thinking throughout the entire course. An algebra background is recommended because of the amount and type of math involved.

*Prerequisites: Biology and Physical Science

Computer Basics (½ credit)

In this course, you will learn how to use productivity and collaboration tools like G Suite by Google Cloud to create word-processing documents, spreadsheets, surveys, and forms such as personal budgets and invitations.

Consumer Math (1 credit)

This course focuses on the mathematics involved in making wise consumer decisions. Students explore the many ways in which mathematics affects their daily lives. The first semester will cover paychecks and wages, taxes, insurance, budgets, bank accounts, credit cards, interest calculations, and comparison shopping. Second-semester topics include vehicle and home purchasing, investing, and business and employee management.

Creative Writing (½ credit)

Literature has been one of the most important human art forms for hundreds of years. It allows us to give voice to our emotions, create imaginary worlds, express ideas, and escape the confines of material reality. We can better understand ourselves and our world through creative writing. This course can provide a solid grounding in writing, from finding inspiration to building a basic story. Then, when you are ready to go beyond the basics, learn more complicated literary techniques to create strange hybrid forms of poetry and prose. By the end of this course, you can discover your creative thoughts and turn those ideas into fully realized pieces of creative writing.

Culinary Arts (1 credit)

Semester A

Are you considering a career in the food service industry or looking to develop your culinary skills? This introductory course will provide basic cooking and knife skills while preparing you to enter the culinary world. Discover the history of food culture, food service, and global cuisines while learning about food science principles and preservation. Finally, prepare for your future by building the professional, communication, leadership, and teamwork skills crucial to a culinary arts career.

Semester B

Did you know that baking is considered a science? Building on the prerequisite course, discover how to elevate your culinary skills by creating stocks, soups, and sauces, and learn baking techniques. Examine sustainable food practices and the benefits of nutrition while maintaining taste, plating, and presentation to truly wow your guests. The last unit in this course explores careers in the culinary arts for ways to channel your newfound passion!

Digital Photography (1 credit)

Semester A

Have you wondered how professional photographers manage to capture that perfect image? Gain a better understanding of photography by exploring camera functions and the elements of composition while putting theory into practice by taking your spectacular shots! Learn how to display your work for exhibitions and develop skills essential for a career as a photographer.

Semester B

Building on the prerequisite course, further develop your photography skills by learning professional tips, tricks, and techniques to elevate your images. Explore various photographic styles, themes, genres, and artistic approaches. Learn more about photojournalism and how to bring your photos to life. Using this knowledge, build a portfolio of your work to pursue a career in this field!

Early Childhood Education (1 credit)

Semester A

Are you curious about what it takes to educate and nurture early learners? Use your curiosity to explore the fundamentals of childcare, like nutrition and safety, but also the complex relationships caregivers have with parents and their children. Examine the various life stages of child development and the best educational practices to enrich their minds while thinking about a possible future as a childcare provider!

Semester B

Building on the previous prerequisite course, discover the joys of providing exceptional childcare and helping to develop future generations. Learn the importance of play and use it to build engaging educational activities that build literacy and math skills through each stage of childhood and special needs. Use this knowledge to develop your professional skills well suited to a career in childcare!

Environmental Science (1 credit)

Semester A

This class is an introduction to Physical Sciences and scientific methodology. The objectives are to impart a basic knowledge of matter’s physical properties and chemistry. Skills are developed in the classroom and reinforced through homework reading and exciting labs that relate to everyday life.

Semester B

This course is an introduction to the Physical Sciences and scientific methodology. The objectives are to impart a basic knowledge of matter’s physical properties and chemistry. Skills are developed in the classroom and reinforced through homework reading and exciting labs that relate to everyday life.

French 1 (1 credit) French 1 focuses on developing listening skills through repeated exposure to spoken language. Speaking skills are encouraged through recommended assignments using voice tools. Reading and writing skills, as well as language structures, are practiced through meaningful, real-life contexts. Technology enhances and reinforces authentic language development and fosters cultural understanding through exposure to native speakers and their daily routines.

French 2 (1 credit)

Semester A

Semester A focuses on continuing and enhancing language skills presented in Level 1. Vocabulary and grammar structures are revisited and expanded to allow students to reach an intermediate comprehension level. Recommended real-life voice activities will enhance speaking and listening skills. They will hone listening skills through online dialogues. Reading and writing skills are developed through access to the completion of meaningful activities, reading culturally related articles of interest, and responding to reading in the target language. Technology enhances and reinforces authentic language development and fosters cultural understanding through exposure to native speakers and their daily routines.

Semester B

Semester B continues the enhancement of language skills. Vocabulary and grammar structures are revisited and expanded as students explore other French-speaking areas. Recommended real-life voice activities will enhance speaking and listening skills. They will hone listening skills through online dialogues. Students will develop reading and writing skills through access to the completion of meaningful activities related to travel, the Olympics, natural disasters, and the space program. Reading culturally related articles of interest and responding to reading in the target language, along with technology, reinforces authentic language development and fosters cultural understanding through exposure to native speakers and their daily routines.

* Prerequisites: Successful completion of French 1

Game Design (1 credit)

Semester A

Does your love of video games motivate you to pursue a career in this field? Pursue your passion by learning about the principles of game design through the stages of development, iterative processes, critiques, and game development tools. Put these new skills to work by designing your own game!

Semester B

Building on the prior prerequisite course, use your creativity to develop a game from start to finish! Develop your game creation skills and practice with the tools professionals use to launch your career options in game design. The content of this course also applies to certification exams.

Graphic design (½ credit)

Graphic design is an introduction to elements of design, spatial relationships, typography, and imagery as they apply to practical visual solutions for self-promotion, resumes, logo design, Web design, and sequential systems. In this course, the student explores the basic foundations of design through a series of visual projects that explore the principles and elements of design. Students will work with analog and digital media as they explore two-dimensional and three-dimensional design and color theory. This course will help develop and explore a student’s ability to communicate visually.

In each lesson, students acquire new skills, which take some effort. Beyond fundamental skills are various levels of creativity. Each lesson allows a student to express the technical skill learned creatively.

Media and communication (½ credit)

From banner ads to billboards, newspaper articles, and Facebook feeds, people are constantly sharing ideas. This course looks at the many facets of mass media. Students will learn how the media shapes every aspect of our lives. We examine the role of newspapers, books, magazines, radio, movies, television, and the growing influence of Facebook, YouTube, and Twitter.

Microsoft Excel (½ credit)

Discover the real-world uses of Microsoft Excel and its impact on business, academic, and personal applications. Move from inserting and manipulating data to working with tables, charts, graphs, and calculations. The content of this course will also apply to the Microsoft Office Suite certification exam.

Microsoft Outlook (½ credit)

Master your email and learn about Outlook’s functions to produce professional communications, helping you to succeed in business and life. Understand effective communication techniques, working with attachments, formatting, replying, and organizing. Be prepared for your day with other features such as calendars, contacts, and tasks. The content of this course will also apply to the Microsoft Office Suite certification exam.

Microsoft PowerPoint (½ credit)

Learn to create clean and professional presentations while building your skills as a speaker, leader, and marketer! Create and format presentations while inserting multimedia, images, transitions, and animations to make a dynamic final product! The content of this course will also apply to the Microsoft Office Suite certification exam.

Microsoft Word (½ credit)

Learn to use effectively and efficiently one of the most common business, school, and personal correspondence tools – Microsoft Word! You will learn to create word-processing documents like letters and reports and style them using fonts, colors, and editing tools. Discover how to format documents, create tables, use bullets and numbering, and insert images. This course lets you immediately apply the skills to school and prepare for the MOS Word certification exam. The content of this course will also apply to the Microsoft Office Suite certification exam.

Music Appreciation (½ credit)

Students will thoroughly understand music by studying the elements of music, musical instruments, music history, and music advocacy. Students will explore worldwide orchestras and composers and engage in composition, performance, instrument invention, and advocacy.

Physics (1 credit)

Semester A

Students begin their exploration of physics by reviewing the International System of Units (SI), scientific notation, and significant digits. They then learn to describe and analyze motion in one and two dimensions. Students learn about gravity and Newton’s laws of motion before concluding the course with an examination of circular motion. Students apply mathematical concepts such as graphing and trigonometry to solve physics problems. Throughout the course, students use their understanding of physics by playing roles like science museum curator and elementary teacher.

Semester B

Physics B continues the student’s exploration of mechanics while guiding them through other essential physics topics. Students begin by exploring simple harmonic motion, wave properties, and optics. Students then learn the basics of thermodynamics and fluids. Afterward, the students explore the principles of electricity and magnetism. Finally, students explore the area of physics known as Modern Physics, which includes topics such as the photoelectric effect, nuclear science, and relativity. This course is trig based. It is assumed you know and can use trigonometry.

*Prerequisites: Biology and Physical Science, Algebra I

Precalculus (1 credit)

Semester A

In this course, students will understand and apply concepts, graphs, and applications of various family functions, including polynomial, exponential, logarithmic, logistic, and trigonometric. An emphasis will be placed on using appropriate functions to model real-world situations and solve problems that arise from those situations. The focus is also on graphing functions by hand and understanding and identifying the parts of a graph. A scientific and/or graphics calculator is recommended for assignments and examinations.

Semester B

Pre-Calculus Part B covers the major units of Introductory Trigonometry and Graphs, Trigonometric Equations and Identities, Analytical Trigonometry, Sequences and Series, Conic Sections, and an Introduction to Calculus. The focus is also on graphing functions by hand and understanding and identifying the parts of a graph.

*Prerequisite: C or higher in Algebra 2 or Teacher Approval

Principals of IT (1 credit)

Semester A

Develop your students’ understanding and proficiency in computers! Students will learn about computer hardware, Von Neumann architecture, peripherals, maintenance, data management, and storage options. Learners will trace the history of operating systems and application software while exploring network systems, administration, and troubleshooting. Finally, students will dive into word processing, spreadsheets, and databases to cement their knowledge of information technology!

Semester B

Building on the prior prerequisite course, you will gain further knowledge of information technology. Starting with an overview of programming, algorithms, and compilers, students will learn the basics of web page design and graphics creation. You will also explore security and cybercrime, emerging technologies, presentation software, and intellectual property laws. Finally, you will prepare for the future by discovering various careers in this field and planning your education!

Psychology (1 credit)

Semester A

In Psychology A, the student begins with a brief history of psychologists and their experimental methods. Next, they examine personality theories. Then, explore human development from the infant to the adult stage is explored. Finally, the last part of the course is about consciousness: sleep, dreams, and conscious-altering substances. Students are encouraged to increase their self-awareness as they move through the course.

Semester B

Students continue to learn about psychology. Students examine the nature of intelligence in humans and animals, including the origin of intelligence and how to measure it. They will learn about learning with an emphasis on classical and operant conditioning. Students also investigate social psychology and psychological disorders. They demonstrate their understanding by completing projects where they play roles like teacher, parent, and psychologist.

Public Speaking (1 credit)

Semester A

Do you strive to gain more confidence when speaking in front of people? Learn techniques from famous speakers throughout history while learning what it takes to make a great speech. Develop skills that will serve you well throughout your career and personal life.

Semester B

Building on the prior prerequisite course, bring your speeches to life by learning about body language, vocal, and other techniques. Learn about logic and reason while gaining the confidence to help create and deliver great presentations and speeches. You will also critically examine your speeches and presentations and those of others to improve your presentation.

Reading & Writing for a Purpose (½ credit) This course introduces useful, real-world information by having students learn to read legal, insurance, employment, and vehicle-related documents. Furthermore, students will explore media bias, trends in journalism, word structures, and research strategies. To entrench real-world applications, students will learn how to read critically, identify trusted sources of information, and create an outline, making this course an asset to building life and study skills.

Sociology (½ credit)

Sociology examines the basics of sociology, which is the study of society, including individuals, human groups, and organizations. The course is divided into four main areas: the sociological perspective, social structures, societal inequality, and social institutions and change. Students will examine controversies around social change, inequality, gender, and race. The course revolves around an overview of the field with projects that offer the student a chance to explore from a sociologist’s perspective.

Spanish 1 (1 credit)

Semester A

Spanish 1, Semester A, introduces Spanish language and culture. Students learn to start with the basics of greetings and basic conversation, working to incorporate ideas from their lives and experiences in Spanish conversation using written and verbal expressions of the Spanish language.

Semester B

Building upon Semester A, Spanish 1 Semester B expands to asking questions and conversational Spanish throughout one’s neighborhood and daily life. Through real-life scenarios and learning examples, students will describe situations in Spanish verbally and in writing.

Spanish 2 (1 credit)

Semester A

Students build upon the foundation developed in Spanish 1. They continue to build vocabulary, learn new verb tenses and other grammar concepts, and increase their ability to communicate with others. They will learn new ideas, like reflexive verbs, infinitive expressions, commands, and the imperfect tense. Semester B will continue building on vocabulary and grammar concepts and communicating effectively in the target language. You will explore new countries where Spanish is spoken and continue to keep abreast of current events in the Spanish-speaking world.

Semester B

Semester B will continue building on vocabulary and grammar concepts and communicating effectively in the target language. You will explore new countries where Spanish is spoken and continue to keep abreast of current events in the Spanish-speaking world.

*Prerequisite: Successful completion of two semesters of Spanish I

Spanish 3 (1 credit)

Students continue to develop their ability in reading, writing, speaking, and understanding Spanish through a systematic review of its structure. Students focus on applying vocabulary in broader situations by learning about past progressive and subjunctive moods and present perfect, future, and conditional tenses.

*Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish I and Spanish II

Study Skills (½ credit)

The Study Skills and Strategies course equips students with skills and understanding critical to effective learning. This course uses a unique approach to study skills, integrating the role of the brain in learning with discrete learning strategies. The Study Skills and Strategies course challenges students to develop intentional learning approaches moving beyond a simple list of tips and ideas. They will be required to make connections between the strategies and skills they learn in this course and the implementation of those strategies and skills in their other coursework. Upon completion of the course, students will have learned various specific learning skills and techniques, gained a greater understanding of their learning preferences, and become prepared to develop and implement specific learning and study plans for any academic course or other learning needs.

Theater Studies (½ credit)

Have you ever wondered how a play goes from the playwright’s mind into a multi-million-dollar Broadway production? In this course, you’ll learn the whole process! This course thoroughly introduces the theater, providing an overview of major topics in theater studies with a blend of theoretical and practical lessons. In the first half of this course, you will learn about the definitions of theater, theater history, and contemporary theatrical genres. The second half of the course will guide you through all of the elements of putting on a professional theatrical production. You will learn about the entire production process, from playwriting through opening night, including aspects of technical theater, rehearsal, and audience response. Whether you’re an aspiring actor, technician, director, producer, or even an avid theatergoer, this course is for you.

World Geography (1 credit)

Semester A

The student will learn basic map reading skills and development, geographic technology, and recognizing geographic themes to make sense of the world. The course examines world regions, including the nations, people, and cultures of the Americas and Western Europe.

Semester B

This second-semester course continues to teach the basic skills of map reading and development, the use of geographic technology, and the recognition of geographic themes. The focus examines the world regions, including the nations, people, and cultures of Central Europe and Northern Eurasia, Central and Southwest Asia, South Asia, Africa, East Asia, and the Pacific.