High School Course Descriptions English I Grade 9, 1 credit ENGLISH Students enrolled in English I will continue to increase and refine their communication skills. Students will be expected to plan, draft, and complete written compositions on a regular basis. Students will edit their papers for clarity, engaging language, and correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English and produce final, error-free drafts. In English I, students will practice all forms of writing. An emphasis will be placed on organizing logical arguments with clearly expressed related definitions, theses, and evidence. Students will write to persuade and to report and describe. English I students will read extensively in multiple genres from world literature such as reading selected stories, dramas, novels, and poetry originally written in English or translated to English from oriental, classical Greek, European, African, South American, and North American cultures. Students will learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read. Students will interpret the possible influences of the historical context. English II Grade 10, 1 credit Students enrolled in English II will continue to increase and refine their communication skills. Students will be expected to plan, draft, and complete written compositions on a regular basis. Students will edit their papers for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English and produce final, error-free drafts. In English II, students will practice all forms of writing. An emphasis will be placed on persuasive forms of writing such as logical arguments, expressions of opinion, and personal forms of writing. These personal forms of writing may include a response to literature, a reflective essay, or an autobiographical narrative. English II students will read extensively in multiple genres from world literature such as reading selected stories, dramas, novels, and poetry originally written in English or translated to English from oriental, classical Greek, European, African, South American, and North American cultures. Students will learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read. Students will interpret the possible influences of the historical context on a literary work. English III Grade 11, 1 credit
Students enrolled in English III will continue to increase and refine their communication skills. Students will be expected to plan, draft, and complete written compositions on a regular basis. Students will edit their papers for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English and produce final, error-free drafts. In English III, students will practice all forms of writing. An emphasis will be placed on business forms of writing such as the report, the business memo, the narrative of a procedure, the summary or abstract, and the resume. English III students will read extensively in multiple genres from American literature and other world literature. Periods from American literature may include the pre-colonial and revolutionary periods, romanticism and idealism, realism and naturalism, early 20th century, and late 20th century. Students will learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read. Students will interpret the possible influences of the historical context on a literary work. English IV Grade 12, 1 credit Students enrolled in English IV will continue to increase and refine their communication skills. Students will be expected to plan, draft, and complete written compositions on a regular basis. Students will edit their papers for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English and produce final, error-free drafts. In English IV, students will be expected to write in a variety of forms including business, personal, literary, and persuasive texts. English IV students will read extensively in multiple genres from British literature and other world literature. Periods from British literature may include the old English period, medieval period, English renaissance, 17th century, 18th century, romantic period, Victorian period, and modern and post-modern period. Students will learn literary forms and terms associated with selections being read. Students will interpret the possible influences of the historical context on a literary work. English 1301: Composition I (Dual Credit) Grade 12, 0.5 credits An intensive study of and practice in writing processes, from invention and researching to drafting, revising, and editing, both individually and collaboratively, the course provides an emphasis on effective rhetorical choices, including audience, purpose, arrangement, and style. A focus on writing the academic essay as a vehicle for learning, communicating, and critical analysis if offered. This writing-intensive first-semester freshman composition course includes (1) study of and practice in all phases of the writing process, both individually and collaboratively, and (2) study of and practice in the strategies and techniques for developing research-based expository and persuasive texts. Essays including a 1500-word documented library research-based paper, are required. Prerequisites: Administrative approval
English 1302: Composition II (Dual Credit) Grade 12, 0.5 credits The course provides an intensive study of and practice in the strategies and techniques for developing research-based expository and persuasive texts. There is emphasis on effective and ethical rhetorical inquiry; teamwork; critical reading of verbal, visual, and multimedia texts; systematic evaluation, synthesis, and documentation of information sources; and critical thinking about evidence and conclusions. This course further develops the analytical, thinking, and research skills underlying academic success through the study of literature. The student s writing of genre-based essays, including researched papers, reinforces the thinking skills associated with interpretation, explication, evaluation, analysis, and synthesis. Essays, including a 1500-2000 word documented library research-based paper, are required. Prerequisites: ENGL 1301. MATHEMATICS Algebra I Grades 9-10, 1 credit Algebra I provides the foundation concepts essential for all work in high school mathematics. Students will build the basic understandings of number, operation, and quantitative reasoning; patterns, relationships, and algebraic thinking; geometry; measurement; and probability and statistics as presented in K - 8. Mathematical Models With Applications Students will use algebraic, graphical and geometric reasoning to recognize patterns, to model information and to solve problems involving money, data, chance, patterns, music, design and science. Students use a variety of representations, tools, and technology to link modeling techniques and mathematical concepts and to solve applied problems. Will not be able to count as a 4th year of math if taken after Algebra II. Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry Consumer Math This practical math elective trains students in mathematical applications used in everyday situations. Consumer math includes real-world examples and an emphasis on critical thinking skills
to solve problems. Topics in the first semester include an overview of basic math skills, personal finance skills, statistics and home recordkeeping, taxes, insurance, and banking services. Building financial literacy in your student, this course s second semester topics include credit cards and loan interest, purchasing items, discounts and markups, travel and transportation costs, vacation spending, retirement planning, and job related services. Encouraging solid financial habits, this course is essential for success in adulthood no matter students desired career paths. Each unit of the course contains quizzes and a test to evaluate progress and student mastery. Geometry Geometry continues to expand upon the foundation concepts for high school mathematics. Mathematical experiences enhance geometric thinking and spatial reasoning, the properties and relationships of geometric figures, the relationships between geometry, other mathematics, and other disciplines, techniques and tools for geometric thinking, and underlying mathematical processes. Prerequisites: Algebra I Algebra II Grades 10-12, 1 credit In Algebra II, the study of functions begun in Algebra I is reinforced, connecting algebraic and geometric representations of functions. Additional topics studied are complex numbers, matrices, conic sections and logarithmic, exponential, square root, rational, direct and inverse variation functions. Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry Precalculus Students use symbolic reasoning and analytical methods to represent mathematical situations, to express generalizations, and to study mathematical concepts and the relationships among them. Students use functions, equations and limits as well as symbolic reasoning to represent and connect ideas in geometry, probability, statistics, trigonometry, and calculus and to model physical situations. Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry, and Algebra II Math 123: Elementary Statistics (Dual Credit) Abilene Christian University Grades 11-12, 0.5 credits
Elementary Statistics covers the collection, presentation, analysis and interpretation of data, and probability. Analysis includes descriptive statistics, confidence intervals, hypothesis testing, correlation and regression. Prerequisites: Precalculus, administrative approval Math 185: Calculus I (Dual Credit) Abilene Christian University Grade 12, 0.5 credits Calculus I covers limits, differentiation and integration of elementary functions, applications to curve sketching, max/min problems, rates, and approximations. Units on exponential and logarithm functions, the trigonometric functions, and inverse trig functions are also covered. Prerequisites: Precalculus, administrative approval Math 186: Calculus II (Dual Credit) Abilene Christian University Grade 12, 0.5 credit Techniques for finding antiderivatives, applications of integration including volumes of solids of revolution, arc length, and center of mass are utilized. Sequences, infinite series, and polynomial approximation are also covered. Prerequisite: Math 185, administrative approval Biology Grades 9-10, 1 credit SCIENCE Biology is the study of living things and their history. This course traces the organizations of organisms from the cellular through the ecosystem levels. Laboratory studies include some comparative dissections, DNA technology, genetics, microscopy, ecological interactions, evolution, classification, plant adaptations, and animal systems. Successful completion of biology is a requirement for graduation. Biology (PAP) Grades 9-10, 1 credit This course presents principles, vocabulary, and concepts in a more detailed manner than would be presented in a regular Biology course. Designed to prepare students for Biology (AP), topics include biochemistry, energy conversions, cells, molecular and Mendelian genetics, evolution, ecology, as well as plant and animal systems. Dissection is used as a tool to compare structure and function in different
animal phyla. A collection is required. Independent and creative projects are encouraged. This course serves as an introduction to various fields in the biological sciences. Prerequisites: Science teacher approval Biology (AP) Various fields of biology such as biochemistry, biotechnology, comparative systems, ecological interactions, behavior, cytology, molecular and Mendelian genetics are covered in the course. A mammal dissection is completed in lab. The AP College Board Syllabus for AP Biology is followed. Preparation for the AP exam is emphasized. The course is designed especially for college bound students (either for those planning to make science a career or for those wishing to place out of taking science in college). Prerequisites: PAP Biology (strongly suggested), science teacher recommendation Chemistry Grades 10-12, 1 credit Designed to help students understand how chemical principles and concepts are developed from data and observation, this course includes study of matter, atomic structure, chemical reactions, solutions, behavior of gases, and acids and bases. Many mathematical concepts like scientific notation and the use of dimensional analysis are used as problem solving methods. Students are expected to provide a calculator. Many concepts taught in chemistry are similar to word problems taught in Algebra I. Prerequisites: Biology Chemistry (PAP) Grades 10-12, 1 credit This honors level course includes the study of basic properties of matter, atomic structures, inorganic nomenclature, inorganic chemical reactions, stoichiometry, acid/base chemistry, and behavior of gases. PAP Chemistry is a mathematically based science course, which includes concepts such as scientific notation, dimensional analysis and formula manipulation for problem solving. Laboratory work will be stressed which includes the writing of detailed lab reports. The purpose of this course is to prepare the student for Chemistry (AP). Prerequisites: Biology; math and science teacher recommendation required Physics In Physics, students conduct field and laboratory investigations and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students study a
variety of topics that include: laws of motion; changes within physical systems and conservation of energy and momentum; force; thermodynamics; characteristics and behavior of waves; and quantum physics. This course provides students with a conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills. Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, Algebra I and Geometry; math and science teacher recommendations. (AP) Physics 1 Strong mathematical principles. Following topics: kinematics, dynamic, mechanical waves and sound, electrostatics, DC circuits. Laboratory experiences analytically based and relate directly to current classroom topics. For students intending to pursue careers in the physical sciences, technical sciences, engineering sciences, or pre-med at the university level. Students may earn a semester of college credit with qualifying AP scores. Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry and a strong mathematical background; current math and science teacher recommendation. (AP) Physics C Grade 12, 1 credit This class is for students planning to specialize in a physical science or in engineering. In this class, roughly one semester is devoted to mechanics. The second semester is devoted to electricity and magnetism. Use of calculus in problem solving and in derivations is expected to increase as the course progresses. Therefore, it is strongly recommended that students have Calculus credit or are concurrently enrolled in Calculus. Students may earn up to two semesters of college credit with qualifying AP scores. Prerequisites: Biology, Chemistry, and PAP Physics; teacher recommendation; enrollment in Calculus is required. World Geography Grade 9, 1 credit HISTORY In World Geography Studies, students examine people, places, and environments at local, regional, national, and international scales from the spatial and ecological perspectives of geography. World History Grade 10, 1 credit
World History focuses on the development of mankind from ancient times to the present, the understanding of other cultures and current events. U. S. History Studies Since Reconstruction Grade 11, 1 credit The course begins with a review of U.S. history from 1607 to 1865 and stresses the development of the social, political, and economic structure of the United States from 1865 to the present. History 1301: United States History I (Dual Credit) Grade 11, 0.5 credit This course offers a survey of the social, political, economic, cultural, and intellectual history of the United States from the pre-columbian era to the Civil War/Reconstruction period. United States History I includes the study of pre- Columbian, colonial, revolutionary, early national, slavery and sectionalism, and the Civil War/Reconstruction eras. Themes that may be addressed in United States History I include: American settlement and diversity, American culture, religion, civil and human rights, technological change, economic change, immigration and migration, and creation of the federal government. Prerequisites: Administrative approval History 1302: United States History II (Dual Credit) Grade 11, 0.5 credit This course offers a survey of the social, political, economic, cultural, and intellectual history of the United States from the Civil War/Reconstruction era to the present. United States History II examines industrialization, immigration, world wars, the Great Depression, Cold War and post-cold War eras. Themes that may be addressed in United States History II include: American culture, religion, civil and human rights, technological change, economic change, immigration and migration, urbanization and suburbanization, the expansion of the federal government, and the study of U.S. foreign policy. Prerequisites: Administrative approval United States Government Grade 12, 0.5 credit
This course focuses on the principles and beliefs upon which the United States was founded and on the structure, functions, and powers of government at the national, state, and local levels. Prerequisites: World Geography and World History and U. S. History Government 2305: Federal Government (Dual Credit) Grade 12, 0.5 credit The course offers the origin and development of the U.S. Constitution, structure and powers of the national government including the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, federalism, political participation, the national election process, public policy, civil liberties and civil rights. Prerequisites: Administrative approval Economics Grade 12, 0.5 credit The focus is on the basic principles concerning production, consumption, and distribution of goods and services in the United States and a comparison with those in other countries around the world. Students examine the rights and responsibilities of consumers and businesses. Students analyze the interaction of supply, demand, and price and study the role of financial institutions in a free enterprise system. Types of business ownership and market structures are discussed, as are basic concepts of consumer economics. Macroeconomic concepts are introduced and examined with an emphasis on economic indicators as they relate to real world situations. Students apply critical-thinking skills to create economic models and to evaluate economic activity patterns. Prerequisites: World Geography and World History and US History Economics 2305: Principles of Macroeconomics (Dual Credit) Grade 12, 0.5 credit The course provides an analysis of the economy as a whole including measurement and determination of Aggregate Demand and Aggregate Supply, national income, inflation, and unemployment. Other topics include international trade, economic growth, business cycles, and fiscal policy and monetary policy. Prerequisites: Administrative approval High School Bible BIBLE
FOREIGN LANGUAGE Spanish I As an introductory course, Spanish I emphasizes basic instruction in pronunciation, conversation, and simple grammar construction. Students gain an awareness of the geography, history, and culture of other countries. Spanish II Grades 10-12, 1 credit Designed to expand the Level I curriculum, the second level extends emphasis on reading and writing, increased vocabulary, grammatical structure, and oral communication skills. Further cultural, historical, and geographical aspects of other countries are presented. Prerequisites: Spanish I Art FINE ARTS Students cover four basic strands of perception, creative expression, historical and cultural heritage, and critical evaluation. By analyzing artistic styles and historical periods, students develop respect for the traditions contributions of diverse cultures. Numerous mediums will be used. Art History Artistic expression from a variety of human experiences and diverse cultures, past and present, are examined. Students consider the social, political and religious contexts which influenced the works of art. High School Athletics PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Numerous team sports and activities are available for all students to enhance their fitness and well-being and to provide opportunities to develop leadership skills and group dynamics. Options include football, volleyball, basketball, baseball, cross country, track, and tennis. Prerequisites: Approval of Coach or Sponsor High School Physical Education Students are expected to participate in a wide range of individual and team sports participate that can be pursued for a lifetime. The continued development of healthrelated fitness and an appreciation for team work and fair play are major objectives of this course. Speech Grades 10-12, 0.5 credit SPEECH COMMUNICATIONS This beginning-level course introduces students to principles of effective communication. Students will gain confidence and develop communication skills through a variety of interpersonal communication activities and oral presentations. Course curriculum will also include listening strategies, non-verbal communication, group dynamics and problem-solving, and conflict/negotiation as well as essential elements of effective professional communication. Prerequisite: None Speech 1315: Public Speaking (Dual Credit) Grades 10-12, 0.5 credit Public speaking provides the application of communication theory and practice to the public speaking context with emphasis on audience analysis, speaker delivery, ethics of communication, cultural diversity, and speech organizational techniques to develop students speaking abilities, as well as ability to effectively evaluate oral presentations. Prerequisite: Administrative approval Concepts of Technology & Engineering Grades 10-12, 1 credit ELECTIVES
This course covers the development of engineering, regarding engineering fundamentals and civilizations, history, technology and society. It includes topics about society and ethics, technical communication, STEM careers, future technologies, and safety in the workplace. Additional areas covering teamwork, problem solving, design and modeling, engineering systems, electronics, and biotechnology are included. Prerequisites: Science and mathematics teacher approval Technology credit Psychology The course provides an explanation of how humans behave and their mental processes. Includes the history as well as new concepts in sleep, dreaming, memory, the brain, intelligence and psychological disorders. Elective Credit Office Assistant Grade 12, 0.0 credit Seniors who have earned 21 credits before the year begins may serve as an office assistant if approved by an administrator. Assistants will not receive credit for the course. Prerequisites: administrative approval