2009 - 2010 High School Curriculum Guide


ENGLISH COURSE OFFERINGS




Reading


This course will ask you to read and analyze articles on a variety of subjects. Reading is the process by which people gain information and ideas from books, newspapers, manuals, letters, contracts, advertisements and a host of other materials. Using strategies for constructing meaning before, during and after reading will help students connect what they read now with what they have learned in the past.

English


English is a study of language, literature, composition, and oral communication with a focus on exploring a wide-variety of genres and their elements. Students use literary interpretation, analysis, comparisons, and evaluation to read and respond to representative works of historical or cultural significance appropriate in classic and contemporary literature balanced with nonfiction. Students write short stories, responses to literature, expository and persuasive compositions, research reports, business letters, and technical documents. Students deliver grade appropriate oral presentations and access, analyze, and evaluate online information.

Public Speaking


Public Speaking is the study and application of the basic principles and techniques of effective oral communication. Students deliver focused and coherent speeches that convey clear messages, using gestures, tone, and vocabulary appropriate to the audience and purpose. Students deliver different types of oral and multi-media presentations, including viewpoint, instructional, demonstration, informative, persuasive, and impromptu. Students use the same Standard English conventions for oral speech that they use in their writing.

Creative Writing


Creative Writing is a study and application of effective writing strategies for prose and poetry. Using the writing process, students demonstrate a command of vocabulary, the nuances of language and vocabulary, English language conventions, an awareness of the audience, the purposes for writing, and the style of their own writing.

CREATIVE WRITING PROJECT: Students complete a project, such as a short story, a narrative or epic poem, a persuasive speech or letter, a book review, a script or short play, or other creative compositions, which demonstrates knowledge, application, and writing progress in the Creative Writing course content.

Literature Classics


Literature Classics is a study of representative works and authors from pre-revolutionary times to the present. Students read, analyze, evaluate, critique, and actively respond to a wide variety of literary genres that reflect culture, including quality works of various ethnic and cultural minorities. Students compare readings and media from literature, history, and other subjects by demonstrating how the ideas and concepts presented in the works are interconnected, and important to an understanding of the development of the current culture.

English Research


In this course students examine the process of writing a report. They learn how to collect information on an issue or topic, draw conclusions from this information, and make recommendations based on their conclusions.

Life Skills English


Life Skills English focuses on the basics needed to read and write clearly and effectively. Students will be able to express relevant information through acquired writing and speaking skills. Students are presented with basic strategies to obtain relevant material from a variety of resources. A focus on literature such as manuals, guidelines, directions and instructions are presented. Completing job applications is also a main component.

Mythology


This class is an introduction to mythology from around the world. The class addresses common themes from a wide variety of cultures including African, Native American, East Indian and European influences. The class surveys major gods and heroes, together with their associated stories, and pays particular attention to what myth “does,” how it operates, and what it seeks to achieve. This series of questions will serve as our guide in connecting world myths to their modern interpretation of everyday situations.




MATH COURSE OFFERINGS




Life Skills Math


This course will teach students the ability to solve math problems from everyday life situations. Students will decide to apply addition, subtraction, multiplication, or division to everyday life situations. They will also learn the use of decimals, percents, and fractions in practical applications. The use of the calculator will be taught as an additional tool for Life Skills Math. This course is not meant to prepare students for advancement to math courses at the college level.

Consumer Education


Course objectives are aimed at several areas of consumer and family studies: consumer education, cultural awareness, human potential (including sex stereotyping), and career education. Areas studied include: life styles; decision making-consumer behavior; consumer in the economy; rights and responsibilities; money management; savings; borrowing; buying (food marketplace, clothing, transportation, housing and home furnishings); environment; and employment and employability.

General Math


A review of basic mathematics skills, General Math Includes the fundamental numeral operations of addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division of whole numbers, fractions, and decimals; ratio and proportion, percent, systems of measurement, and an introduction to geometry.

Pre-Algebra


Pre-Algebra provides the mathematical background, skills, and thinking processes necessary for the successful completion of Algebra. Topics include: (1) number sense and computation, (2) algebra and functions, (3) geometry, (4) measurement, (5) data analysis, and (6) probability. The instructional program of this course addresses both the understanding and use of the concepts in appropriate problem solving situations

Algebra I


Algebra I provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students to succeed in advanced courses. In particular, the instructional program in this course provides for the use of algebraic skills in a wide range of problem-solving situations. The concept of function is emphasized throughout the course. Topics include: (1) operations with real numbers, (2) linear equations and inequalities, (3) relations and functions, (4) polynomials, (5) algebraic fractions, and (6) nonlinear equations.

Algebra II


Algebra II is a course that extends the content of Algebra I and provides further development of the concept of a function. Topics include: (1) relations, functions, equations and inequalities; (2) conic sections; (3) polynomials; (4) algebraic fractions; (5) logarithmic and exponential functions; (6) sequences and series; and (7) counting principles and probability.

Geometry


Geometry students examine the properties of two and three dimensional objects. Proof and logic, as well as investigative strategies in drawing conclusions, are stressed. Properties and relationships of geometric objects include the study of: (1) points, lines, angles and planes; (2) polygons, with a special focus on quadrilaterals, triangles, right triangles; (3) circles; and (4) polyhedra and other solids. Use of a graphing calculator is encouraged.

Pre-Calculus/Trigonometry


Pre-Calculus/Trigonometry blends the concepts and skills that must be mastered before enrollment in a college level calculus course. The course includes the study of (1) relations and functions, (2) exponential and logarithmic functions, (3) trigonometry in triangles, (4) trigonometric functions, (5) trigonometric identities and equations, (6) polar coordinates, (7) sequences and series, and (8) data.




SCIENCE COURSE OFFERINGS




Life Science


Life Science covers the fundamentals of biology. Students develop problem-solving skills and strategies while exploring the functions and processes of cells within all living organisms, the sources and patterns of genetic inheritance and variation leading to biodiversity, and the relationships of living organisms to each other and to the environment as a whole.

Biology


Biology is a course based on investigations that include a study of the structures and functions of living organisms and their interactions with the environment. At a minimum, students enrolled in Biology explore the structure and function of cells, cellular processes, and the interdependencies of organisms within populations, communities, ecosystems, and the biosphere. Students work with concepts, principles, and theories of the living environment. In addition, students enrolled in this course are expected to: (1) gain an understanding of the history and development of biological knowledge, (2) explore the uses of biology in various careers, and (3) investigate biological questions and problems related to personal needs and societal issues.

Earth Science


Earth Science is a course focusing on the study of the earth’s layers, atmosphere, hydrosphere, and the structure and scale of the Universe. Students analyze and describe earth’s interconnected systems and examine how earth’s materials, landforms, and continents are modified across geological time. Through laboratory and field investigations, students understand the history and development of the earth and space sciences, explore the uses of earth and space science in various careers, and investigate earth and space science problems concerning personal needs and community issues related to science.

Environmental Science


Environmental Science is the study of the interaction between humans and the living and non-living environment around them. Students learn about the effects of human interaction including deforestation, pollution, habitat destruction, and issues surrounding the management of the earth's water resources.

Physical Science

Physical Science is a course in which students develop problem solving skills and strategies while performing laboratory and field investigations of fundamental chemical, physical, and related earth and space science concepts and principles that are related to students’ interests and address everyday problems. Students enrolled in Physical Science will explore the structure and properties of matter, the nature of energy and its role in chemical reactions and the physical and chemical laws that govern Earth’s interconnected systems and forces of nature.

General Science


This course provides a brief overview of the scientific method, biology, physics, chemistry, and sometimes other subjects such as geology, astronomy, human physiology, or human health. Unlike subject specific classes, General Science does not require any mathematical skills beyond basic arithmetic.

Chemistry


Chemistry is a course based on investigations of matter, chemical reactions, and the role of energy in those reactions. Students enrolled in Chemistry compare, contrast, and synthesize useful models of the structure and properties of matter and the mechanisms of its interactions. In addition, students enrolled in this course are expected to: (1) gain an understanding of the history of chemistry, (2) explore the uses of chemistry in various careers, and (3) investigate chemical questions and problems related to personal needs and societal issues.

Physics


Physics is a course in which students synthesize the fundamental concepts and principles related to matter and energy, including mechanics, wave motion, heat, light, electricity, magnetism, atomic and subatomic physics. Through regular laboratory study using such quantities as velocity, acceleration, force, energy, momentum, and charge, students (1) examine the nature and scope of physics, including its relationship to other sciences and its ability to describe phenomena using physical laws, (2) describe the history of physics and its role in the birth of technology, (3) explore the uses of its models, theories, and laws in various careers, and (4) investigate physics questions and problems related to personal needs and societal issues.




SOCIAL STUDIES COURSE OFFERINGS




World Geography


World Geography is designed to enable students to use geographical skills and historical concepts to deepen their understanding of major global themes including the origin and spread of world religions; exploration; conquest, and imperialism; urbanization; and innovations and revolutions. Geographical and historical skills include forming research questions, acquiring information by investigating a variety of primary and secondary sources, organizing information by creating graphic representations, analyzing information to determine and explain patterns and trends, and presenting and documenting findings orally and/or in writing. The historical geography concepts used to explore the global themes include change over time, origin, diffusion, physical systems, cultural landscapes, and spatial distribution and interaction. Using these skills, concepts and the processes associated with them, students are able to analyze, evaluate, and make predictions about major global developments. This course is designed to nurture perceptive, responsible citizenship, encourage and support the development of lifelong learning, and to help prepare students for the 21st Century.

World History


World History emphasizes events and developments in the past that greatly affected large numbers of people across broad areas and that significantly influenced peoples and places in subsequent eras. Key events related to people and places as well as transcultural interaction and exchanges are examined in this course. Students are expected to compare and contrast events and developments involving diverse peoples and civilizations in different regions of the world. They will examine examples of continuity and change, universality and particularity, and unity and diversity among various peoples and cultures from the past to the present. Students are also expected to practice skills and process of historical thinking and research and apply content knowledge to the practice of thinking and inquiry skills and processes. There will be continuous and pervasive interactions of processes and content, skills and substance, in the teaching and learning of history.

U.S. History


Students are expected to identify and review significant events, persons, and movements in the early development of the nation. The course then gives major emphasis to the interaction of key events, people, and political, economic, social, and cultural influences in national developments from the late nineteenth century through the present. Students are expected to trace and analyze chronological periods and examine the significant themes and concepts in U.S. History. They will develop historical thinking and research skills and use primary and secondary sources to explore topical issues and to understand the cause for changes in the nation over time.

** U.S. Constitution Test is also administered**

Government


Studies the principles of the American system of government so that you can understand the rights and responsibilities that come with U.S. citizenship. The course teaches you what the Constitution really means and looks at the various branches of government and the roles they play. You will also learn how laws are enacted and how your civil rights are protected under law.

Current Events


The Current Events course introduces students to issues that influence our life in this global, multicultural society. Students will research current economic, political, social, and cultural problems, and explore how ongoing conflicts affect groups as well as individuals. Some of the pressing problems facing our rapidly changing society will be examined in detail using a variety of media. Critical thinking skills and technology related research is emphasized. Speaking and listening skills are reinforced through class discussions and oral presentations. The study of interdisciplinary connections relates current events to history thereby enabling students to grasp the interrelationship between and among them.

Sociology


This course offers a study of human relationships in society. It focuses upon the use of a sociological point of view to examine culture, social structure, the individual in society, social institutions, and social inequality. The changing social world and its implications are presented and analyzed.

Civics


A basic course that describes the organization and operation of government on the local, state, and national levels. In addition, the roles of students in family, school, and the economy are investigated with emphasis on their rights and responsibilities.

Criminal Justice


This course explores the administration of criminal justice in the U.S. with a general overview of the total system. Students will explore the role of the police, criminal courts, and corrections while learning about the increasing number of careers available within criminal justice. Students will also be expected to conduct "field experiences" of their choice in order to better explore the broad field and multidisciplinary nature of criminal justice.




ELECTIVES




Introduction to Business


Introduction to Business develops relevant economic topics and many more that specifically focus on today's business climate. The concepts and topics provide an opportunity to develop a foundation and expand the student’s knowledge of resource possibilities for all of the areas of business such as marketing, management, finance, small business, globalization, social responsibility, motivation, and many more.

Economics

Basic economic theory is the foundation of this course as students learn how fundamental decisions about the four factors of production are made. Key topics covered include: law of supply and demand; saving, borrowing, and spending; the Federal Reserve System and the money supply; and the role of government in an open market economy.

Health

Health will investigate a range of human interactions. Areas to be explored include making responsible decisions;
communicating effectively; mental & emotional health; building self-esteem; adolescence relationships &
responsibilities; the use, misuse & abuse of drugs, alcohol and tobacco; human sexuality; families & family relationships, preventing abuse & violence; and peer pressure. Health is typically a semester course that will meet the health requirements needed for graduation. Health is designed to enable our students to be responsible, respectful, informed and capable when making decisions that would impact upon the well being of themselves and others.

Driver’s Safety


The goal of Driver's Safety in the high school is the development of citizens who will be competent and responsible users of the highway transportation system. Students complete the textbook portion of Driver’s Safety which focuses on correct use of vehicle controls, right of way, physics involved in driving, signs and markings. Their responsibility as a driver is discussed with emphasis on emotions and substances that can impact driving ability. Tips on buying a vehicle, shopping for insurance, and vehicle maintenance are also part of the class instruction.

Consumer Education


Course objectives are aimed at several areas of consumer and family studies: consumer education, cultural awareness, human potential (including sex stereotyping), and career education. Areas studied include: life styles; decision making; consumer behavior; consumer in the economy; rights and responsibilities; money management; savings; borrowing; buying (food marketplace, clothing, transportation, housing and home furnishings); environment; and employment and employability.

Computer Education


Computer Education is designed to familiarize students with the necessary computer skills and software programs needed to use the computer for educational projects, presentations and research.

Art

Art is a hands-on class for students interested in learning basic art skills. Areas of study include both two-dimensional and three-dimensional work in drawing, painting, papier-mâché, photography and other media. Students are also eligible to enter community art contests throughout the year.

Career Education


Career Education is a weekly discussion based group that explores a variety of pre-vocational, vocational and postsecondary topics designed to provide students with the information and resources needed to make appropriate and informed career minded decisions.

Independent Study


Students may seek approval to undertake a research or performance project for academic credit on an Independent Study basis. All such projects are similar in that they cannot be completed by the student as part of an existing class but can be completed by the student working on an independent basis with guidance from the teacher.

Cooperative Work Study


Eligibility:

A. All students applying for enrollment in the Cooperative Work Study Program must be at least 15 years old and have a valid work permit when required. Information on obtaining a work permit is available from the school principal.

B. Students must be working an average minimum of 15 hours per week.

C. Students must agree to the school establishing contact with the employer. This entails telephone consultations, to verify hours and performance, and on-site visitation, if needed.

Early Dismissal Program

A. Students must be enrolled in program for a minimum of 30 school days. Special arrangements may be made at the student’s intake interview.

B. Students must maintain a 90% plus attendance average.

C. A 70%, “C” average must be maintained in all academic and non-academic courses.

D. When possible, students must have a fixed work schedule Monday-Friday

E. Students are required to appropriately and productively engage in all program components.

F. The time of day students may leave for the job site needs to be arranged with the school principal

Transportation for Early Dismissal

A. when appropriate and available the student’s resident school district may provide transportation directly to the work site.

B. The student is responsible for transportation from the work site to their residence.

C. The school principal reserves the right to limit or suspend early dismissal privileges.

Grading and Credit Policy

A. Work study grades will be obtained via the following:

1. Through consultation with the employer focusing on: punctuality, performance of job related tasks and responsibilities, co-worker rapport, attitude and other employer identified areas.

B. Students may ear credit towards graduation through a successful work study experience.



HIGH SCHOOL ACADEMIC CURRICULUM

Course Descriptions Follow

English


Reading
English
Public Speaking
Creative Writing
Literature Classics
English Research
Life Skills English
Mythology

Social Studies


World Geography
World History
U.S. History
Government
Current Events
Sociology
Civics
Criminal Justice

Mathematics


Life Skills Math
Consumer Education
General Math
Pre-Algebra
Algebra I
Algebra II
Geometry PreCalculus/Trigonometry

Science


Life Science
Biology
Earth Science
Environmental Science
Physical Science
General Science
Chemistry
Physics

Electives


Intro to Business
Economics
Health
Driver’s Safety
Computer Education
Career Education
Art
Independent Study *
Cooperative Work Study*

* Requires advance arrangement