Course Descriptions

English | Four years of English are required:

English I
Two semesters; 1 credit.
The purpose of English I is to develop the student’s abilities involved in expository, descriptive, and narrative writing. This includes short stories, drama, non-fiction, poetry and novels. The course will also cover the study of grammar and vocabulary in context. The literature section of this course is to enlarge the student’s concepts and understanding of the fundamental structures of classical literature.

English II
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
The literature studied in this course will encompass an introduction to the short story and poetry, non-fiction, the serious drama, and the novel. The grammar portion of this course will include a review of the parts of speech.

English III 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Literature studied in this course will include an introduction to Puritan thought, poetry, short stories, novels, drama, and essays by American authors. Research papers focusing on literary analysis will be written.

English IV 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Literature in this course includes a critical look at poetry, short stories, serious drama, the epic, and the novel from British Authors. Composition will include a review of grammar, with the emphasis on writing a persuasive paper, an expository paper, a drama analysis and, a short story.

Social Studies | U.S. History, World History, World Geography, American Government, and Economics are required for graduation:

United States History 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
The United States History course is designed to acquaint the students with the important events in the development of the United States.

World History 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
An introduction to world cultures with emphasis on specific political, social, economic, and religious events which have influenced present world environment.

World Geography 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Presents the nature of geography, physical settings of the earth, interaction of physical environments, and urban analysis.

American Government 
One semester; ½ credit. 
A study of political theories and government structures with emphasis on those of the United States.

Economics 
One semester; ½ credit. 
The course teaches the free enterprise system and its benefits. The course also covers the American economic system, international economic relations, and consumer economics.

Mathematics | Students must earn a minimum of three credits in mathematics

Pre-Algebra 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
This course is designed for those who are more likely to succeed when the pace is slower, introducing the student to a new language and skills of algebra and providing a greater degree of repetition. It employs techniques to instill confidence in the student’s mathematical ability.

Algebra I
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
This course consists of the study of all algebraic practices and theories: equations, inequalities, factoring, graphs and the properties of real numbers. Emphasis is placed on the development of algebraic ideas through language and concepts. An introduction to proofs and the function concept is also included in this course. Algebra I forms the basis for further courses in Mathematics.

Geometry
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Prerequisite: Algebra I. The study of the geometric concepts of parallelism, perpendicularity, similarity, congruence, and the measurement of angles, segments, polygons, and circles is covered.

Algebra II
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Prerequisite: Algebra I. Suggested Prerequisite: Geometry. This course consists of the study of the structure of the complex number system extending from the field properties to graphing on the complex number plane. Also included is a review and extension of two and three-dimensional geometry using both algebraic and graphic methods. 

Pre-Calculus 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Prerequisite: Algebra 2. This is a high school course in which the fundamental theory of differential and integral calculus are presented and applications studied.

Science | Three years of Science are required of graduation

Integrated Physics and Chemistry
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
In this course students conduct field and laboratory investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical-thinking and scientific problem solving. This course integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry in the following topics: motion, waves, energy transformations, properties of matter, changes in matter, and solution chemistry.

Biology 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
This course includes an inquiry approach into the five kingdoms of life and their environments. Importance is placed upon understanding the nature of scientific inquiry, the diversity of life, biochemical molecules, genetics, anatomy, and embryology. Laboratory work is emphasized and integrated with the text material.

Chemistry 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Topics include atomic structure, phases of matter, kinetic theory and gas laws, bonding, the periodic table, stoichiometry, solutions, thermodynamics, equilibrium, acid-base theory, and oxidation-reduction reactions. Laboratory work is emphasized and integrated with the text material. 

Environmental Science
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
The first semester explores natural ecosystems, their function, how balances are maintained, and how they evolve and change. Issues such as growing populations and the pressures on soil and water resources are confronted. Second semester studies include five categories of pollution and resources to maintain balance. Laboratory investigations confirm principles and offer hands-on experience.

Anatomy & Physiology
Two semesters; 1 credit.
Prerequisite: Biology I. This course is a continuation of Biology I at a college preparatory level, with a focus on human anatomy, microbiology, and genetics.

Physics 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Chemistry is strongly suggested as a prerequisite. This course will teach the main topics of physics: mechanics, optics, electricity and magnetism. Laboratory work is emphasized and integrated with the text material.

Foreign Languages | 2 years of foreign language are required; three are recommended.

Spanish I 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Introduction to the Spanish language by a combination of audio-lingual and traditional methods. Basic vocabulary and grammar are studied. Correct Spanish pronunciation is stressed. Hispanic culture is introduced.

Spanish II 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Prerequisite: Spanish I or native-speaking ability. Continuation of the basic essentials of Spanish grammar, vocabulary building, intense work on aural comprehension and oral expression, and a continued study of Hispanic culture.

Spanish III
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Prerequisite: Continuation of the Spanish language with an emphasis on language fluency. 

French I 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Introduction to the French language by audio-lingual method, which uses the skills of aural comprehension and speaking while mastering basic grammar and vocabulary. Correct French pronunciation is taught and stressed. There is an emphasis on reading and writing. French culture is introduced.

French II 
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Prerequisite: French I. Continuation of French grammar, vocabulary building, intense work on aural comprehension and oral expression, and the study of French Culture. All verb tenses are taught as an introduction to the study of basic French readings and the writing of complex sentences.

French III
Two semesters; 1 credit. 
Prerequisite: French II. Continuation of the French language with an emphasis on language fluency.

Other Required Courses

BCIS I
One semester; 1/2 credit. 
Introduction to the Microsoft Office Suite of software programs; Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Front Page. Will prepare students for the MOUS (Microsoft Office User Specialist) Core Exam.

BCIS II
One semester; 1/2 credit.
Prerequisite: BCIS I. More advanced applications, projects, and simulations using the Microsoft office Suite of software programs: Word, Excel, Access, PowerPoint, Outlook, and FrontPage. Will prepare students for the MOUS (Microsoft Office User Specialist) Core Exam.

Health 
One semester; 1/2 credit.
Health gives the student concepts and skills that foster individual personal health and safety, as well as those that affect the well being of people collectively.

Physical Education 
Three semesters; 1&1/2 credits.
Various aspects of physical education are introduced, including: general conditioning, weight training, aerobic fitness, hiking, volleyball, golf, power yoga, and basketball. Components may be offered on a rotating basis, therefore some areas are not offered each semester. 

Speech
One semester; 1/2 credit.
The focus of this course is to teach how to be a competent communicator. The processes of Research, Writing and Delivery of speeches are included.

Additional Courses & Electives

Advanced Reading & Math Concepts (SAT Prep)
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
This course is designed for the student planning to go to college. Emphasis is on individual improvement in reading comprehension, vocabulary development, math concepts, critical thinking, and test-taking techniques. Test preparation (SAT, ACT, etc.) is also a focus of the course. This course is informally called “SAT Preparation Class”

Personal and Business Money Management
Two semesters; 1 credit, Elective
Introduction to Personal Finance issues such as budgeting, decision-making, loans, credit cards, insurance, saving and spending. Also provides an understanding of the basic accounting cycle for small business ownership.

The World of Business
Two semesters; 1 credit, Elective
Introduces students to the opportunities available in business, whether as an employee or as a business owner. Provides understanding of their own strengths and talents and shows them how to succeed in today’s world of business.

Yearbook/Journalism 
Two semesters; 1 credit, Elective
This course has a two-fold purpose: the production and publication of the yearbook, and the school newspaper. Students learn basic design and layout skills and develop writing skills.

Visual Arts
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
This course is designed to teach students design concepts and experiment with various media in both two and three dimensions. Concepts include composition, balance, layout, color, value, line, shape and texture. Media include sculpture, drawing, painting, handicrafts, and ceramics.

Drawing
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
This course is designed to acquaint students with the line as the primary technique for artistic expression. Projects include self-portraits, still life and nature drawing, light and texture techniques, and abstract compositions.

Art and Architecture History
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
This course provides students with an introduction to the study of the history of art and architecture. Students learn generally about the development and changes in art and architecture from prehistoric times to present and the historical context relevant to shifts in style.

Film History
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
A survey of film styles from the birth of cameras to present, this course will include both film viewing and critical and analytical writing about film. Students will learn to understand film as a vital creative medium and observe e how film reflects and defines the culture and context of its maker. Technical concerns, visual style, economics, and production values will also be discussed.

Music History
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
This course is designed to teach students about the development of music from ancient times to present. The focus of the course is understanding and defining influences and evolution of musical style, with a special emphasis on individual student preferences. Each student will be challenged to break down their own tastes and research the music they most appreciate. Critical and analytical writing about music will also be a priority.

Photography I
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
This course provides students with basic technical skills in developing film and printing in black and white. Students learn about different types of film and purposes, and critique assigned photographs. They develop basic skills in camera handling, proper exposure, and composition. (It is recommended that students own a camera.)

Photography II
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
Prerequisite: Photography I. This course gives students the opportunity to refine their photographic skills. Advanced techniques in black and white processing and printing are emphasized. The students are given an opportunity to experiment with a variety of darkroom techniques such as double exposure, double printing, photo silk-screen, photo collage, artificial and natural lighting, and to express a personal vision of works.

Psychology 
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
A basic study of general psychology and human behavior. This course includes a survey of the history and systems of the science. 

Philosophy
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
This course is an introduction to philosophy. This course introduces people to other people and people to ideas. Serious questions are asked and students will draw their own conclusions to the questions.
 
Sociology 
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
Begins with a study of different cultures throughout history and traces cultural transitions to modern American culture and society. Deals with American society, placing emphasis on: socialization, the family, the changing roles of men and women, minorities, the elderly, and the future.

Music Theory
One semester; 1/2 credit, Elective
This course provides students with a basic understanding of pitch and rhythmic notation, scale structures, intervals, chord structure and movement, simple part-writing, and ear training.