High School Course Descriptions

High School Graduation Course Requirements and Descriptions

High School Course Catalog

Phone: 702-257-0578
High School Fax: 702-312-3260
K-8 Fax: 702-259-7793
E-mail: info@odysseyk12.org 
Address: 2251 S. Jones Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89146

For more course information please contact one of our high school guidance counselors.

English

English

AP English Language/Composition

This one-year college level course is for students whose achievement indicates their preparedness to study language and composition at the college freshman level. Students are involved in both the study and practice of writing and the study of literature. They will learn to use the characteristic modes of discourse to recognize the assumptions underlying various rhetorical strategies. Students become more aware of the resources of language: connotation, metaphor, irony, syntax, tone, etc. Outside reading required. It is expected students will take the AP exam in May.This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

English 9

This one-year course provides instruction in the English Language Arts strands identified by the Common Core State Standards as reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. This course is designed to build on knowledge and skills acquired in earlier grades but in more sophisticated ways such as mastering the language, structure, and rhetoric of text, completing more complex writing assignments, and reading and analyzing a range of literary and informational discourse. The appropriate use of technology and digital media are integral parts of this course. This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

English 9 Honors

This one-year course provides instruction in the English Language Arts strands identified by the Common Core State Standards as reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. This course is designed to build on knowledge and skills acquired in earlier grades but in more sophisticated ways such as mastering the language, structure, and rhetoric of text, completing more complex writing assignments, and reading and analyzing a range of literary and informational discourse. The appropriate use of technology and digital media are integral parts of this course. This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

English 10

This one-year course provides instruction in the English Language Arts strands identified by the Common Core State Standards as reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. This course focuses on traditional (e.g., argument, persuasive, expository), technical, and creative modes of composition. A variety of literary genres will be used for the further development of reading strategies, literary appreciation, and interpretation. The appropriate use of technology and digital media are integral parts of this course. This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

English 10 Honors

This one-year course provides instruction in the English Language Arts strands identified by the Common Core State Standards as reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. This course focuses on traditional (e.g., argument, persuasive, expository), technical, and creative modes of composition. A variety of literary genres will be used for the further development of reading strategies, literary appreciation, and interpretation. The appropriate use of technology and digital media are integral parts of this course. This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

English 10 Pre-AP

This one-year course (Advanced Composition, Language, and Themes in American Text) provides instruction in the English Language Arts strands identified by the Common Core State Standards as reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. This course is designated as honors by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. This rigorous honors course requires expository, analytical, and argumentative writing assignments that are based on readings representing a wide variety of American prose styles and genres. The course is also structured chronologically based on the genres and movements of American literature. Students are expected to think conceptually about the American past, present, and future. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness. The appropriate use of technology and digital media are integral parts of this course. This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

English 11

This one-year course provides instruction in the English Language Arts strands identified by the Common Core State Standards as reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. This course requires expository, analytical, and argumentative writing assignments that are based on readings representing a wide variety of prose styles and genres. Various literary genres will be studied and used as springboards for composition. The appropriate use of technology and digital media are integral parts of this course. This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

English 11 Honors

This one-year course provides instruction in the English Language Arts strands identified by the Common Core State Standards as reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. This course requires expository, analytical, and argumentative writing assignments that are based on readings representing a wide variety of prose styles and genres. Various literary genres will be studied and used as springboards for composition. The appropriate use of technology and digital media are integral parts of this course. This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

English 12

This one-year course provides instruction in the English Language Arts strands identified by the Common Core State Standards as reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. Instruction focuses on refining the skills required for post-secondary success. The writing focus in this course includes analysis, synthesis, and argumentation as they relate to workplace and real-world situations. The appropriate use of technology and digital media are integral parts of this course. This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

English 12 Honors

This one-year course provides instruction in the English Language Arts strands identified by the Common Core State Standards as reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. Instruction focuses on refining the skills required for post-secondary success. The writing focus in this course includes analysis, synthesis, and argumentation as they relate to workplace and real-world situations. The appropriate use of technology and digital media are integral parts of this course. This course fulfills one of the English credits required for high school graduation.

Publications l

This one-year course is designed for the study and practice of the foundational elements of publications with major emphasis in information gathering, writing, layout design, and photography.Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the elective credits required for graduation and may be repeated for credit.

Math

AP Calculus AB

This one-year Advanced Placement course is intended for students who have a thorough knowledge of high school mathematics. Students should have a strong background in functions, coordinate and analytical geometry, trigonometry, and advanced topics in algebra. This course includes a review of these topics, the study of limits, and the differentiation and integration of functions of a single variable. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of technology, including graphing calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. It is expected students will take the AP exam in May. This course will fulfill one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

AP Statistics

This one-year course is designed with an emphasis on meeting the requirements of the College Board Advanced Placement AP Statistics examination. This college-level curriculum introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. The AP Statistics course is an excellent option for any secondary school student who has successfully completed a second-year course in algebra and who possesses sufficient mathematical maturity and quantitative reasoning ability. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of technology, including graphing calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. It is expected students will take the AP exam in May.This course fulfills one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

Pre Algebra

This one-year course designed for freshman-level students provides the necessary knowledge and skills to successfully complete algebra and geometry coursework. It is intended to increase mathematical fluency in problem solving, reasoning, modeling, and effective communication in the study of number, algebra, functions, geometry, and statistics. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of technology, including calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. While this course fulfills one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation, it does not meet the core requirements for the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) or the Nevada System of Higher Education (NSHE) core requirements for university admission.

Algebra l

This one-year course is designed to provide students with the necessary knowledge and skills to be prepared for further studies in mathematics. It is intended to increase mathematical fluency in problem solving, logic, reasoning, and effective communication in the study of patterns, functions, and algebra. This course builds on the concepts of rational and irrational numbers, data analysis, probability, geometry, measurement, spatial relationships, patterns, and algebraic concepts. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of technology, including calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. This course will fulfill the algebra requirement for and one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

Algebra ll

This one-year course provides students with a study of functions and statistics, including advanced topics. It incorporates problem solving, reasoning, modeling, and effective communication skills through the study of polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; the design of statistical studies; and statistical inference. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of mathematical tools and technology, including calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

Algebra ll Honors

This one-year course provides students with a rigorous study of functions and statistics, including advanced topics. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. It incorporates problem solving, reasoning, modeling, and effective communication skills through the study of polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions; the design of statistical studies; and statistical inference. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of mathematical tools and technology, including calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. This course will fulfill one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

Geometry

This one-year course provides students with a rigorous study of Euclidean geometry including. It incorporates problem solving, reasoning, modeling, and effective communication in the study of transformational geometry, trigonometry, measurement, and probability. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of mathematical tools and technology, including calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

Geometry Honors

This one-year course provides students with a rigorous study of Euclidean geometry including advanced topics. It incorporates problem solving, reasoning, modeling, and effective communication in the study of transformational geometry, trigonometry, measurement, and probability. The use of mathematical tools and technology, including calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

Mathematics of Personal Finance

This one-year course is the study of personal finance for senior-level students. Students will develop a deeper understanding of the mathematics of finance to include: money management, risk management, and financial planning related to consumer and family studies, career and technical education, and personal finance. The emphasis will be on refining problem-solving skills using project-based learning activities and academic integration within the context of financial applications. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of technology, including calculators and computers, is an integral part of this course. This course will fulfill one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

Precalculus Honors

This one-year course is designed for the motivated, above-average student with a strong background in advanced algebra. In addition to reviewing topics from trigonometry, this course includes problem-solving techniques using analytic geometry, vectors, matrices, relations and functions and their graphs, series and sequences, probability and statistics, and the introductory concepts of calculus. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The use of technology, including graphing calculators and computer software, is an integral part of this course. This course will fulfill one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

College Preparatory Mathematics

This rigorous one-year course is designed for students who have successfully completed Algebra II. In preparation for college-level mathematics, the focus of this course is the study of advanced mathematical topics and their applications. Emphasis is on refining problem solving skills through modeling and project-based learning. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The use of technology, including calculators or computer software, is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the mathematics credits required for high school graduation.

Science

AP Biology

This one-year course is designed with an emphasis on meeting the requirements of the College Board Advanced Placement AP Biology examination. This college-level curriculum provides students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology.  Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. It is expected students will take the AP exam in May. This course fulfills one credit of the Nevada high school graduation requirement for science and qualifies as a laboratory science for college entrance.

AP Environmental Science

This one-year course is designed with an emphasis on meeting the requirements of the College Board Advanced Placement AP Environmental Science examination. This college-level curriculum provides students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing field of environmental science. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. It is expected students will take the AP exam in May. This course fulfills one credit of the Nevada high school graduation requirement for science and qualifies as a laboratory science for college entrance.

Biology

This one-year course is designed as a survey of the biological sciences.  The emphasis is on developing inquiry skills and problem-solving techniques while developing an understanding of major biological concepts.  The course will also familiarize the students with the nature of science and technology. Instructional practices will incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society.  The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course will fulfill one credit of the Nevada high school graduation requirement for science and qualifies as a laboratory science for college entrance.

Biology Honors

This one-year course is designed around introductory biological concepts designed for the academically-oriented student.  Emphasis is placed on developing critical-thinking skills, research skills, and laboratory techniques. Independent study projects and inquiry-based learning experiences are integral parts of the course requirements.  Instructional practices will incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course.  This course will fulfill one credit of the Nevada high school graduation requirement for science and qualifies as a laboratory science for college entrance.

Chemistry

This course is designed for those students who exhibit an interest in science, especially chemistry.  Topics included are mathematics of chemistry, safety, laboratory procedures, properties of matter, atomic theory and structure, mole concept, chemical bonding, nomenclature, chemical equations, stoichiometry, kinetic molecular theory, states of matter, acids-bases-salts, equilibrium, thermochemistry, polymer chemistry, nuclear chemistry, chemistry of the environment, and career opportunities. Science, Technology and Society (STS) issues will be an integral part of this course.  Additional topics may include history of chemistry, biochemistry, qualitative chemistry, and research projects. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one science credit toward high school graduation and qualifies as a laboratory science for college entrance.

Chemistry Honors

This course is designed for those students who exhibit an interest in science, especially chemistry.  Topics include: mathematics of chemistry, safety, laboratory procedures, elements-compounds-mixtures, atomic theory and structure, structure and organization of the periodic table, mole concept, chemical bonding, nomenclature, chemical equations, stoichiometry, kinetic molecular theory, phases of matter, solutions, acids-bases theory, equilibrium, thermochemistry, organic chemistry, nuclear chemistry, chemistry of the environment, and career opportunities.  Science, Technology and Society (STS) issues will be an integral on-going part of this course. Additional topics may include history of chemistry, biochemistry, qualitative chemistry, and research projects. The instructional pacing and the delivery of advanced content will distinguish this course from Chemistry I. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society.  The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one science credit towards high school graduation and qualifies as a laboratory science for college entrance.

Geoscience

This one-year course is designed to integrate scientific principles related to the Earth and its environment. Topics of this course include relationships between atmospheric processes and the water cycle, solar systems and the universe, and Earth’s composition and structure. The connections between Earth’s systems and everyday life are evaluated throughout this course. Demonstrations and lab experiences are an integral part of instruction. Scientific methodology and the metric system are integrated and modeled. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the science credits required for high school graduation and qualifies as a laboratory science for college admission.  

Introduction to Robotics

This one-year course is designed to provide a hands-on approach to concepts in robotics technologies. This course will be tied directly to laboratory construction of complex robotics systems with emphasis placed on mobile robots and the illustrations of current state of the art research and applications. Additionally, this course will provide the historical development of robotics as a field, effectors and control, integrating sensors, mobile robot controls (reactive, behavior-based, and hybrid), motion planning, robot learning, multi-robot systems, as well as an overview of the field of robotics and their influence on society and the future. In addition to advanced computer science concepts, introductions to the related fields of mechanical and electrical engineering as well as cross-curricular references to the biological, chemical and physical sciences will be provided as appropriate. Instructional practices will incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The use of technology is an integral part of this course.  This course will fulfill one of the elective credits required for high school graduation.

STEM Robotics

STEM Robotics is a lab-based course that used a hands-on approach to build on the concepts of Introduction to Robotics. It focuses on the construction and programming of autonomous mobile robots. Course information will be tied to lab experiments; students will work in groups to build and test increasingly more complex mobile robots. Instructional practices will incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The use of technology is an integral part of this course.  This course will fulfill one of the elective credits required for high school graduation.

Physics I

This one-year course is designed for those students who exhibit an interest in science. Topics included are the following: laboratory procedures, mathematics applications, laboratory safety, waves, optics, relativity, kinematics, dynamics, energy, heat, electricity and magnetism, and atomic structure. Physics is a course that informs students about the interconnectedness among different types of forces and energy transformations. Demonstrations and/or lab experiences are an integral part of this course. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the science credits toward high school graduation and qualifies as a laboratory science for college entrance.

Physics I Honors

This one-year course is designed for those students who exhibit an interest in science. Topics included are the following: laboratory procedures, mathematics applications, laboratory safety, waves, optics, relativity, kinematics, dynamics, energy, heat, electricity and magnetism, and atomic structure. Physics is a course that informs students about the interconnectedness among different types of forces and energy transformations. Demonstrations and/or lab experiences are to be an integral part of this course. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the science credits toward high school graduation and qualifies as a laboratory science for college entrance.

Principles of Science

This course provides an integrated, standards-based approach by connecting concepts in life science, earth and space science, and physical science. Students gain a foundation in the nature of science and develop critical thinking skills through inquiry, experimentation, collaboration, and data collection with analysis. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one science credit required for high school graduation and qualifies as a laboratory science for college entrance.

Social Studies

Social Studies

AP US Government and Politics

This is a one-year course with an emphasis on meeting the requirements of the College Board Advanced Placement United States Government and Politics examination. This course gives students an analytical perspective of government and politics in the United States. It includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret United States politics and the analysis of specific examples. Students increase their knowledge of the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute United States politics. Instructors should refer to the current Advanced Placement course description for examination specifics. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course.It is expected students will take the AP exam in May. This course fulfils one U.S. Government credit required for high school graduation.

AP Human Geography

This one-year course is designed for the college-bound student, with an emphasis on meeting the requirements of the College Board Advanced Placement Human Geography examination. This course provides students with an understanding of the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped, and continue to shape, human understanding, use, and alteration of the Earth’s surface. This course will focus on the methods and tools geographers use in their science to employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis within a geographical, historical, political, economic, and cultural context. Instructors should refer to the current Advanced Placement course description for examination specifications. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course.  It is expected students will take the AP exam in May. This course fulfills the World History/Geography and the Arts/Humanities credits required for high school graduation.

AP Psychology

This one-year course is designed with an emphasis on meeting the requirements of the College Board Advanced Placement Psychology examination. Topics examined in greater depth include research techniques and statistics, history of psychology, the neurobiological basis of behavior, sensation and perception, states of consciousness, learning and memory, thinking and language, intelligence and psychological tests, motivation and emotion, stress and health psychology, human development, psychological disorders and therapies, personality, and social psychology. This course fulfills one of the elective credits required for high school graduation.

AP US History

This one-year course is designed for the college-bound student, with an emphasis on meeting the requirements of the College Board Advanced Placement United States History examination. This course provides an in-depth examination, synthesis and evaluation of the historical themes from 1492 to present day. A careful balance of historiography, analytical skills, and factual knowledge will be used throughout the course. Instructors should refer to the current Advanced Placement course description for examination specifics. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. It is expected students will take the AP exam in May. This course fulfills one U.S. History credit required for high school graduation.

AP World History

This one-year course is designed for the college-bound student, with an emphasis on meeting the requirements of the College Board Advanced Placement World History examination. This understanding is advanced through a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. The course highlights the nature of changes in global frameworks and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies from their historical, geographical, political, economic, and cultural contexts. It emphasizes relevant factual knowledge, leading interpretive issues, and skills in analyzing types of historical evidence, covering the scope of human history from 8,000 BCE to the present. Instructors should refer to the current Advanced Placement course description for examination specifications. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. It is expected students will take the AP exam in May. This course fulfills the World History/Geography and the Arts/Humanities credits required for high school graduation.

Civil Rights and Liberties

This one-year course is a study of the civil rights and liberties of Americans, including a practical application of civil and criminal law within the United States. This course places emphasis on the historical and contemporary relevance of the Constitution and the Bill of Rights, while exploring the specific rights of criminal, civil, and juvenile clients. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one elective credit required for high school graduation.

Economics

This one-year course is designed to provide students with an understanding of economic ideas essential in today’s world. Students apply logical reasoning and analytical skills as they develop a global perspective and personal application of economics. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one elective credit required for high school graduation.

History of Popular Music

This one-year course is an extensive study of history’s most successful recording artists and bands. Emphasis is placed on the study and appreciation of music, including student research on the sociological events of the 1950s, 1960s, and 1970s. Students analyze video, music, and literature and evaluate the impact on Western culture. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one elective credit required for high school graduation.

Principles of Leadership (Student Council)

The purpose of this one-year course is to train student leaders in the various aspects of leadership. Time will be used in and out of class for performance of tasks associated with their leadership responsibilities. This course will count as one elective credit. It may be repeated for more than one credit.

Psychology I

This one-year course will introduce basic concepts used by psychologists in understanding human behavior. Topics to be considered include psychology as a science, human development, biological bases of behavior, motivation and learning, thinking and intelligence, normal and abnormal behavior, therapies, testing, and the effects of group membership on behavior. This course will fulfill one of the elective credits required for graduation.

Sociology

This one-year course is designed to provide students with an introduction to the study of social groups, institutions, and functions. Emphasis is on the relationship to society between the individual and groups. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one elective credit required for high school graduation.

US Government
This one-year course is a study of United States federal, state, local, and tribal governments evaluating the impact of political foundations, structures, processes, and institutions. Students apply constitutional principles to assess the growth and development of the United States government and political system. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills the United States Government credit required for high school graduation.

US Government Honors

This one-year course is a study of United States federal, state, local, and tribal governments evaluating the impact of political foundations, structures, processes, and institutions. Students apply constitutional principles to assess the growth and development of the United States government and political system. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills the U.S. Government credit required for high school graduation.

US History

This one-year course is a study of American history with an emphasis on the Modern World from 1900 to the present day. Students explore and evaluate the significant historical events and the consequences. This course provides an examination of historical themes to analyze how new events continue to shape our nation and society today. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills the U.S. History credit required for high school graduation.

US History Honors

This one-year course is a study of American history with an emphasis on the Modern World from 1900 to the present day. Students explore and evaluate the significant historical events and the consequences. This course provides an examination of historical themes to analyze how new events continue to shape our nation and society today. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills the U.S. History credit required for high school graduation.

World History

This one-year course examines societal development from the Renaissance to the present with an emphasis on emerging ideologies, expansion of empires, growth of nations, and an increase of global interdependence. Students develop an understanding of current world issues and relate them to their historical, geographical, political, economic, and cultural contexts. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills the World History/Geography and the Arts/Humanities credits required for high school graduation.

World History Honors

This one-year course examines societal development from the Renaissance to the present with an emphasis on emerging ideologies, expansion of empires, growth of nations, and an increase of global interdependence. Students develop an understanding of current world issues and relate them to their historical, geographical, political, economic, and cultural contexts. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills the World History/Geography and the Arts/Humanities credits required for high school graduation.

Electives

Computer Science l

This one-year course is designed to introduce students who have successfully completed Algebra I to the core concepts of computer science. The areas of major emphasis are computer programming, algorithms, and problem-solving. An introductory programming language is used as the vehicle for implementing computer-based solutions. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills either the one half required computer credit and one-half of the elective credit or one elective credit.

Computer Science ll Honors

This one-year course is designed for students who have successfully completed Computer Science I. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. Areas of emphasis include object-oriented programming and algorithms, program design, program implementation, and standard data structures. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills the one-half required computer credit and one-half elective credit or one of the elective credits required for high school graduation.

Animation I

This one-semester course is designed to introduce students to 3D modeling, animation and special effects technology.  Students will acquire the general knowledge and specific skills used to build both realistic and stylized models. Students will gain experience using computer software programs for texturing, animating, and editing completed movies.  This course will provide students with a broad overview of the many career options available in the animation field and will prepare them for advanced work in the 3D animation program. This course will fulfill one-half of one of the elective credits required for high school graduation.  

Web Design and Development l

This one-semester course is designed to provide students with the basic principles of web page development using industry-accepted applications and coding techniques. Students design, execute, update, and modify websites. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills either the one-half required computer credit and one-half elective credit or one of the elective credits required for high school graduation.

Graphic Design

This one-year course is designed to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed to create a variety of commercial art products. Students gain an understanding of the creative process, with an emphasis on the design principles, layout, and the creation and manipulation of graphics. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the elective credits required for high school graduation

Interactive Art

This one year course is designed to be interactive and to give students an overview of art production, history, aesthetics and criticism. Students will explore various types of art throughout the ages through virtual museum visits. They will also study the styles and techniques of artists by using interactive websites. They will be given the opportunity to produce their own art in a virtual environment.  This course fulfills one elective credit required for graduation.

Spanish l

Spanish l is a college track course that requires high grade in high school English. This is not a Spanish as conversation course, but rather emphasizes reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension. Two years of foreign language at the high school level is a requirement for more than 90% of 4+ year colleges across the country.

Spanish ll Honors

Spanish ll continues as an all inclusive course that emphasizes and expands on reading, writing, speaking, comprehension and a solid knowledge base of Spanish speaking cultures around the world.  Two years of foreign language at the high school level is a requirement for more than 90% of 4+ year colleges across the country.

Spanish lll Honors

In Spanish lll students will continue to sharpen listening, speaking, reading and writing skills through activities that are based on pedagogically proven methods of foreign language instruction. Students learn to express themselves using an ever increasing vocabulary, present tense verbs, past tense verbs, articles, and adjectives. Grammar is introduced and practiced in innovative and interesting ways with a variety of learning styles in mind. Culture is sprinkled throughout the course in an attempt to help the learner focus on the Spanish speaking world and its culture, people geographical locations and histories.

Spanish lV Honors

This one-year course is designed for students who have successfully completed Spanish III Honors or who demonstrate a proficiency level of intermediate-mid as identified in the foreign language proficiency guidelines established by the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL). Students continue to refine proficiency in the target language with the end-of-course goal of demonstrating proficiency at the intermediate-high level. This course is designated as honors level by the accelerated instructional pacing and depth of content. The focus is communication in the target language incorporating understanding of the target cultures, connecting with other disciplines, comparing native language to the target language, and participating in multicultural communities. The course provides practice in correct use of basic vocabulary and language structures to enable students to function effectively within realistic settings. ACTFL recommends that at least 90% of the instructional time in class be conducted in the target language. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills either one of the elective credits or one Arts/Humanities credit required for high school graduation.

Freshman Studies

This one-year course is designed for ninth grade students to provide a smooth transition into the high school setting and develop a sense of community and ownership.  Emphasis will be placed on developing a long-range educational plan. This course will fulfill one elective credit required for high school graduation.

Sophomore Studies
This one-year course will assist students with in-depth career exploration and examination of post-secondary options based upon assessment of interests and skills. Students will also examine personal leadership qualities as they relate to high school and the workplace.  This course will fulfill one elective credit required for high school graduation.

Junior Studies
This one-year course is designed for eleventh grade students to prepare them for the world of work and post-secondary education.  Emphasis will be placed on the employment process and employability skills during the first semester. Preparing for college entrance exams, application processes, financial aid and a focused personal plan for post secondary training or education will be emphasized during the second semester.  This course will fulfill one elective credit required for high school graduation.

College Survival/Exams

This one‑semester course is designed to help twelfth students to prepare for life after high school. Emphasis will be on planning for continued education in an apprenticeship, a two-year college, or four-year college or university.  Students will examine challenges of a new and independent life setting. This course will fulfill one-half of one elective credit required for high school graduation.

Independent Living

This one-year course for junior- and/or senior-level students is designed to prepare for independent living. Using project-based strategies, students relate personal goals to choices in careers, housing, finances, relationships, and nutrition. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one elective credit required for high school graduation.

Life Strategies
This one-year course is designed for students entering high school to introduce them to the basic skills for life management choices, career exploration, and academic success.  This course emphasizes practices, procedures, and skills that will guide students to make the needed transition from middle school to high school. Four modules will enable students to gain an understanding of personal finance, career exploration, study skills, and decision-making skills.  This course fulfills one of the elective credits required for high school graduation.

Health Education

This one-semester course examines the intricate relationships between the structural and physiological functions required for the mental, physical, social, and emotional wellness. Topics include decision making, wellness, nutrition and physical activity, body systems, substance use and abuse, communicable and noncommunicable diseases, violence prevention, safety, and consumer health. Sex education and sexually transmitted infectious disease education, within established guidelines, is an integral part of this course. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to our society.  The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. The course fulfills the one-half credit of health required for high school graduation.

PE I

This one-year course focuses on students becoming independent decision makers capable of planning for lifetime fitness and physical activity, while achieving current personal fitness and activity goals. Students are provided with experiences in psychomotor skills, movement, goal-setting, and health-related fitness knowledge. Students participate in movement experiences, team sports, individual and dual sports, dance/rhythms, and lifetime recreational activities. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. The appropriate use of technology is an integral part of this course. This course fulfills one of the two physical education credits required for high school graduation.

PE II

This one-year course, required in the tenth grade, focuses on the physical, mental, social, and emotional development of the individual in cooperative and competitive settings. The student is provided with experiences in psychomotor skills, movement, and lifetime health-related fitness knowledge, skills, and values. The goals of this course are accomplished through participation in movement experiences and application of movement principles found in team sports, individual/dual sports, fitness and wellness activities, dance/rhythms, and lifetime recreational activities. Rules, strategies, and safety are emphasized in relation to active participation and development of knowledgeable spectators. Self-esteem is incorporated into all areas of the curriculum as is the exploration of career opportunities in related fields. This course will fulfill one of the two physical education credits required for graduation.

Exploratory Work Experience

This one-year course is designed to provide students with an exploratory work experience which introduces them to the world of work and bridges the gap between school and work. Students must be employed in a paying position. Students gain employability skills related to the program of study by completing a minimum of 270 hours of paid work experience per semester. Instructional practices incorporate integration of diversity awareness including appreciation of all cultures and their important contributions to society. This course fulfills one of the elective credits required for high school graduation.

Student Aide

This one-year course is designed to allow students to assist teachers in classroom management. Under the direction of a supervising teacher, students will gain experience in clerical duties, laboratory assistance, working with faculty members, and following directions. Students are assigned to supervising teachers by a formal application process. Students are limited to one credit. This course will fulfill one of the elective credits required for graduation.