Apex Learning
ENGLISH 9
English I
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
The English 9 course is an overview of exemplar selections of literature in fiction and nonfiction genres. Students read short stories, poems, a full-length novel, and a full-length Shakespeare play, analyzing the use of elements of literature in developing character, plot, and theme. For example, in selected stories, students compare the effect of setting on tone and character development. Likewise, in the poetry unit, students analyze how artists and writers draw from and interpret source material. Each unit includes informational texts inviting students to consider the historical, social, and literary context of the main texts they study. For example, in the first semester, a Nikolai Gogol story that is offered as an exemplar of magical realism is accompanied by instruction on that genre. Together, the lesson content and reading prompt students to demonstrate their understanding of magical realism by analyzing its qualities in a literary text. Throughout the course, students respond to others' claims and support their own claims in essays, discussions, and presentations, consistently using thorough textual evidence. The range of texts includes canonical authors such as William Shakespeare, Franz Kafka, and Elie Wiesel, as well as writers from diverse backgrounds, such as Alice Walker, Li-Young Lee, and Robert Lake-Thom (Medicine Grizzlybear).
ENGLISH 10
English II
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
The focus of the English 10 course is the writing process. Three writing applications guide the curriculum: persuasive, expository, and narrative writing. Each lesson culminates in a written assignment that lets students demonstrate their developing skill in one of these applications. English 10 follows the model of English 9 by including at least one anchor text per lesson, but the essays, articles, stories, poems, and speeches are often presented as models for students to emulate as they practice their own writing. So that these readings may serve as proper examples for students, a high proportion of texts for this course are original pieces. English 10 also continues to develop students' reading, listening, and speaking skills. Readings include poems, stories, speeches, plays, and a graphic novel, as well as a variety of informational texts. The readings represent a wide variety of purposes and cultural perspectives, ranging from the Indian epic The Ramayana to accounts of Hurricane Katrina told through different media. Audio and video presentations enhance students' awareness and command of rhetorical techniques and increase their understanding of writing for different audiences.
ENGLISH 11
English III
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
In the English 11 course, students examine the belief systems, events, and literature that have shaped the United States. They begin by studying the language of independence and the system of government developed by Thomas Jefferson and other enlightened thinkers. Next, they explore how the Romantics and Transcendentalists emphasized the power and responsibility of the individual in both supporting and questioning the government. Students consider whether the American Dream is still achievable and examine the Modernists disillusionment with the idea that America is a land of opportunity. Reading the words of Frederick Douglass and the text of the Civil Rights Act, students look carefully at the experience of African Americans and their struggle to achieve equal rights. Students explore how individuals cope with the influence of war and cultural tensions while trying to build and secure their own personal identity. Finally, students examine how technology is affecting our contemporary experience of freedom: Will we eventually change our beliefs about what it means to be an independent human being? In this course, students analyze a wide range of literature, both fiction and nonfiction. They build writing skills by composing analytical essays, persuasive essays, personal narratives, and research papers. In order to develop speaking and listening skills, students participate in discussions and prepare speeches. Overall, students gain an understanding of the way American literature represents the array of voices contributing to our multicultural identity.
ENGLISH 12
English IV
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
The English 12 course asks students to closely analyze world literature and consider how we humans define and interact with the unknown, the monstrous, and the heroic. In the epic poems The Odyssey, Beowulf, and The Inferno, in Shakespeare's Tempest, in the satire of Swift, and in the rhetoric of World War II, students examine how the ideas of heroic and monstrous have been defined across cultures and time periods and how the treatment of the other can make monsters or heroes of us all. Reading Frankenstein and works from those who experienced the imperialism of the British Empire, students explore the notion of inner monstrosity and consider how the dominant culture can be seen as monstrous in its ostensibly heroic goal of enlightening the world. Throughout this course, students analyze a wide range of literature, both fiction and nonfiction. They build writing skills by composing analytical essays, persuasive essays, personal narratives, and research papers. In order to develop speaking and listening skills, students participate in discussions and prepare speeches. Overall, students gain an understanding of the way world literature represents the array of voices that contribute to our global identity.
HONORS ENGLISH 9
English I
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
English 9 Honors is an overview of exemplar selections of literature in fiction and nonfiction genres. Students read short stories, poems, a full-length novel, a full-length Shakespeare play, and two book-length outside readings of their choice. For all readings, students analyze the use of elements of literature in developing character, plot, and theme. For example, in selected stories, students compare the effect of setting on tone and character development. In the poetry unit, students analyze how artists and writers draw from and interpret source material. Each unit includes informational texts inviting students to consider the historical, social, and literary context of the main texts they study. For example, in the first semester, a Nikolai Gogol story that is offered as an exemplar of magical realism is accompanied by instruction on that genre. Together, the lesson content and reading prompt students to demonstrate their understanding of magical realism by analyzing its qualities in a literary text. Throughout the course, students respond to others' claims and support their own claims in essays, discussions, and presentations, consistently using thorough textual evidence. Opportunities for self-directed study, including outside readings, open-ended journal entries, and free-form projects, challenge Honors students to use their creativity and critical thinking skills to gain independent mastery of reading and writing. Finally, the range of texts includes canonical authors such as William Shakespeare, Franz Kafka, and Elie Wiesel, as well as writers from diverse backgrounds, such as Alice Walker, LiYoung Lee, and Robert Lake-Thom (Medicine Grizzly Bear).
HONORS ENGLISH 10
English II
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
The focus of English 10 Honors is the writing process. Three forms of writing guide the curriculum: persuasive, expository, and narrative writing. A typical lesson culminates in a written assignment that lets students demonstrate their developing skill in one of these forms. English 10 Honors includes at least one anchor text per lesson focused on a thematic core of the capacity of language to influence others. Readings include poems, stories, speeches, plays, and a graphic novel, as well as a variety of informational texts, and these texts are often presented as models for students to emulate as they practice their own writing. The readings represent a wide variety of purposes and cultural perspectives, ranging from the Indian epic The Ramayana to accounts of Hurricane Katrina told through different media. Audio and video presentations enhance students' awareness and command of rhetorical techniques and increase their understanding of writing for different audiences. English 10 Honors provides opportunities for self-directed study, including outside readings, open-ended journal entries, and free-form projects, all of which challenge Honors students to use their creativity and critical thinking skills to gain independent mastery of reading and writing.
HONORS ENGLISH 11
English III
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
In English 11 Honors, students examine the belief systems, events, and literature that have shaped the United States. They begin by studying the language of independence and the system of government developed by Thomas Jefferson and other enlightened thinkers. Next, they explore how the Romantics and Transcendentalists emphasized the power and responsibility of the individual in both supporting and questioning the government. Students consider whether the American Dream is still achievable and examine the Modernists disillusionment with the idea that America is a land of opportunity. Reading the words of Frederick Douglass and the text of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, students look carefully at the experience of African Americans and their struggle to achieve equal rights. In addition, students explore how an individual copes with the influence of war and cultural tension while trying to build and secure a personal identity. Finally, students examine how technology affects our contemporary experience of freedom: Will we eventually change our beliefs about what it means to be an independent human being? In this course, students analyze a wide range of literature, both fiction and nonfiction. They build writing skills by preparing analytical and persuasive essays, personal narratives, and research papers. Opportunities for self-directed study, including outside readings, open-ended journal entries, and free-form projects, challenge Honors students to use their creativity and critical thinking skills to gain independent mastery of reading and writing. Finally, in order to develop speaking and listening skills, students participate in discussions and prepare speeches. Overall, students gain an understanding of the way American literature represents the array of voices contributing to our multicultural identity.
HONORS ENGLISH 12
English IV
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
The English 12 Honors course asks students to closely analyze British literature and world literature and consider how we humans define and interact with the unknown, the monstrous, and the heroic. In the epic poems The Odyssey, Beowulf, and The Inferno, in Shakespeare's Tempest, in the satire of Swift, and in the rhetoric of World War II, students examine how the ideas of heroic and monstrous have been defined across cultures and time periods and how the treatment of the other can make monsters or heroes of us all. Reading Frankenstein and works from those who experienced the imperialism of the British Empire, students explore the notion of inner monstrosity and consider how the dominant culture can be seen as monstrous in its ostensibly heroic goal of enlightening the world. Throughout this course, students analyze a wide range of literature, both fiction and nonfiction. They build writing skills by composing analytical essays, persuasive essays, personal narratives, and research papers. In order to develop speaking and listening skills, students participate in discussions and give speeches. Overall, students gain an understanding of the way British and world literature represent the array of voices that contribute to our global identity.
Course Name | Course Type |
|---|---|
GRADE 6 LANGUAGE ARTS | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 6 MATH | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 6 SCIENCE | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 6 SOCIAL STUDIES | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 7 LANGUAGE ARTS | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 7 MATH | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 7 SCIENCE | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 7 SOCIAL STUDIES | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 8 LANGUAGE ARTS | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 8 MATH | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 8 SCIENCE | Elem/Mid |
GRADE 8 SOCIAL STUDIES | Elem/Mid |
ALGEBRA I
Algebra I
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Algebra I builds students' command of linear, quadratic, and exponential relationships. Students learn through discovery and application, developing the skills they need to break down complex challenges and demonstrate their knowledge in new situations. Course topics include problem-solving with basic equations and formulas; an introduction to functions and problem solving; linear equations and systems of linear equations; exponents and exponential functions; sequences and functions; descriptive statistics; polynomials and factoring; quadratic equations and functions; and function transformations and inverses. This course supports students as they develop computational fluency, deepen conceptual understanding, and apply mathematical knowledge. Students discover new concepts through guided instruction and confirm their understanding in an interactive, feedback-rich environment. A variety of activities allow for students to think mathematically in a variety of scenarios and tasks. In Discussions, students exchange and explain their mathematical ideas. Modeling activities ask them to analyze real-world scenarios and mathematical concepts. Journaling activities have students reason abstractly and quantitatively, construct arguments, critique reasoning, and communicate precisely. And in Performance Tasks, students synthesize their knowledge in novel, real-world scenarios, make sense of multifaceted problems, and persevere in solving them. This course is built to state standards. Throughout the course, students are evaluated by a variety of assessments designed to prepare them for the content, form, and depth of state exams.
ALGEBRA II
Algebra II
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Algebra II introduces students to advanced functions, with a focus on developing a strong conceptual grasp of the expressions that define those functions. Students learn through discovery and application, developing the skills they need to break down complex challenges and demonstrate their knowledge in new situations. Course topics include quadratic equations and functions; polynomial functions; rational expressions and functions; radical expressions and functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; trigonometric functions; modeling with functions; probability and inferential statistics; probability distributions; and sampling distributions and confidence intervals. This course supports all students as they develop computational fluency and deepen conceptual understanding. Students begin each lesson by discovering new concepts through guided instruction, then confirm their understanding in an interactive, feedback-rich environment. Modeling activities equip students with tools for analyzing a variety of real-world scenarios and mathematical ideas. Journaling activities allow students to reason abstractly and quantitatively, construct arguments, critique reasoning, and communicate precisely. Performance tasks prepare students to synthesize their knowledge in novel, real-world scenarios and require that they make sense of multifaceted problems and persevere in solving them. This course is built to state standards.
GEOMETRY
Geometry
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Geometry builds upon students' command of geometric relationships and formulating mathematical arguments. Students learn through discovery and application, developing the skills they need to break down complex challenges and demonstrate their knowledge in new situations. Course topics include reasoning, proof, and the creation of sound mathematical arguments; points, lines, and angles; triangles and trigonometry; quadrilaterals and other polygons; circles; congruence, similarity, transformations, and constructions; coordinate geometry; three-dimensional solids; and applications of probability. This course supports all students as they develop computational fluency and deepen conceptual understanding. Students begin each lesson by discovering new concepts through guided instruction, and then confirm their understanding in an interactive, feedback-rich environment. Modeling activities equip students with tools for analyzing a variety of real-world scenarios and mathematical ideas. Journaling activities allow students to reason abstractly and quantitatively, construct arguments, critique reasoning, and communicate precisely. Performance tasks prepare students to synthesize their knowledge in novel, real-world scenarios and require that they make sense of multifaceted problems and persevere in solving them. This course is built to state standards.
MATHEMATICS OF PERSONAL FINANCE
Other Math
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Mathematics of Personal Finance focuses on real-world financial literacy, personal finance, and business subjects. Students apply what they learned in Algebra I and Geometry to topics including personal income, taxes, checking and savings accounts, credit, loans and payments, car leasing and purchasing, home mortgages, stocks, insurance, and retirement planning. Students then extend their investigations using more advanced mathematics, such as systems of equations (when studying cost and profit issues) and exponential functions (when calculating interest problems). To assist students for whom language presents a barrier to learning or who are not reading at grade level, Mathematics of Personal Finance includes audio resources in both Spanish and English. This course is built to state standards as they apply to Mathematics of Personal Finance and adheres to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics' (NCTM) Problem Solving, Communication, Reasoning, and Mathematical Connections Process standards.
PRE-CALCULUS
College Prep Math
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Precalculus is a course that combines reviews of algebra, geometry, and functions into a preparatory course for calculus. The course focuses on the mastery of critical skills and exposure to new skills necessary for success in subsequent math courses. The first semester includes linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, radical, polynomial, and rational functions; systems of equations; and conic sections. The second semester covers trigonometric ratios and functions; inverse trigonometric functions; applications of trigonometry, including vectors and laws of cosine and sine; polar functions and notation; and arithmetic of complex numbers. Within each Precalculus lesson, students are supplied with a post-study Checkup activity that provides them the opportunity to hone their computational skills by working through a low-stakes problem set before moving on to formal assessment. Unit-level Precalculus assessments include a computer-scored test and a scaffolded, teacher-scored test. The course is built to state standards and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) standards.
PROBABILITY AND STATISTICS
College Prep Math
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Probability and Statistics provides a curriculum focused on understanding key data analysis and probabilistic concepts, calculations, and relevance to real-world applications. Students are challenged to work toward mastery of computational skills, apply calculators and other technology in data analysis, deepen their understanding of key ideas and solution strategies, and extend their knowledge through a variety of problem-solving applications. Course topics include types of data, common methods used to collect data, and representations of data, including histograms, bar graphs, box plots, and scatterplots. Students learn to work with data by analyzing and employing methods of extending results, involving samples and populations, distributions, summary statistics, experimental design, regression analysis, simulations, and confidence intervals. Ideas involving probability including sample space, empirical and theoretical probability, expected value, and independent and compound events are covered as students explore the relationship between probability and data analysis. Extended projects allow for more open-ended, extended applications of concepts and skills. Students collect and analyze statistical data about a topic that interests them, and they apply probability concepts in a real-world context. The content is based on the Common Core standards and is aligned with state standards.
BIOLOGY
Biology
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Biology focuses on the mastery of basic biological concepts and models while building scientific inquiry skills and exploring the connections between living things and their environment. The course begins with an introduction to the nature of science and biology, including the major themes of structure and function, matter and energy flow, systems, and the interconnectedness of life. Students then apply those themes to the structure and function of the cell, cellular metabolism, and biogeochemical cycles. Building on this foundation, students explore the connections and interactions between living things by studying genetics, ecosystems and natural selection, and evolution. The course ends with an applied look at human biology. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. This course is built to state standards and informed by the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).
CHEMISTRY
Physical Sciences
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Chemistry offers a curriculum that emphasizes students' understanding of fundamental chemistry concepts while helping them acquire tools to be conversant in a society highly influenced by science and technology. The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice critical scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Topics include the nature of science, the importance of chemistry to society, atomic structure, bonding in matter, chemical reactions, redox reactions, electrochemistry, phases of matter, equilibrium and kinetics, acids and bases, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, nuclear reactions, organic chemistry, and alternative energy. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how chemistry concepts are applied in technology and engineering. Journal and Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing skills. This course is built to state standards.
EARTH SCIENCE
Other Lab
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Earth Science offers a focused curriculum that explores Earth's composition, structure, processes, and history; its atmosphere, freshwater, and oceans; and its environment in space. Course topics include an exploration of the major cycles that affect every aspect of life, including weather, climate, air movement, tectonics, volcanic eruptions, rocks, minerals, geologic history, Earth's environment, sustainability, and energy resources. Optional teacher-scored labs and projects encourage students to apply the scientific method. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA).
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Other Lab
1.0 unit (2semester)
Environmental Science explores the biological, physical, and sociological principles related to the environment in which organisms live on Earth, the biosphere. Course topics include natural systems on Earth, biogeochemical cycles, the nature of matter and energy, the flow of matter and energy through living systems, populations, communities, ecosystems, ecological pyramids, renewable and non-renewable natural resources, land use, biodiversity, pollution, conservation, sustainability, and human impacts on the environment. The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, deconstruct claims, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Case studies of current environmental challenges introduce each content lesson and acquaint students with real-life environmental issues, debates, and solutions. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Virtual Lab activities enable students to engage in investigations that require long periods of observation at remote locations and to explore simulations that enable environmental scientists to test predictions. Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how biology, earth science, and physical science are applied to the study of the environment and how technology and engineering are contributing solutions for studying and creating a sustainable biosphere. This course is built to state standards.
HONORS BIOLOGY
Biology
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Biology is an in-depth course that furthers mastery of scientific skills, fosters a deep understanding of key concepts, and promotes the application of the scientific method to biological topics. The course begins with an introduction to the nature of science and biology, including the major themes of structure and function, matter and energy flow, systems, and the interconnectedness of life. Students then apply those themes to the structure and function of the cell, cellular metabolism, and biogeochemical cycles. Building on this foundation, students explore the connections and interactions between living things by studying genetics, ecosystems and natural selection, and evolution. The course ends with an applied look at human biology. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Biology students are frequently asked to respond to scientific problems and issues via written assignments. Exploration activities challenge Honors students to deconstruct scientific claims, analyze scientific articles, and suggest follow-up experiments or topics for further research. Finally, Project and Checkup activities allow Honors students to use scientific process skills to delve deeper into topics. This course is built to state standards and the National Science Education Standards (NSES).
HONORS CHEMISTRY
Physical Sciences
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Chemistry offers a curriculum that emphasizes students' understanding of fundamental chemistry concepts while helping them acquire tools to be conversant in a society highly influenced by science and technology. The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice critical scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Topics include the nature of science, the importance of chemistry to society, atomic structure, bonding in matter, chemical reactions, redox reactions, electrochemistry, phases of matter, equilibrium and kinetics, acids and bases, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, nuclear reactions, organic chemistry, and alternative energy. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Throughout this course, students are given opportunities to understand how chemistry concepts are applied in technology and engineering. Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing skills. Exploration activities challenge Honors students to deconstruct scientific claims, analyze scientific articles, and suggest follow-up experiments or topics for further research. Finally, Project activities allow Honors students to use scientific process skills to delve deeper into topics. This course is built to state standards, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Project 2061 benchmarks, and the National Science Education Standards (NSES).
HONORS EARTH SCIENCE
Other Lab
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Earth Science Honors offers a focused curriculum that explores Earth's composition, structure, processes, and history; its atmosphere, freshwater, and oceans; and its environment in space. Course topics include an exploration of the major cycles that affect every aspect of life, including weather, climate, air movement, tectonics, volcanic eruptions, rocks, minerals, geologic history, Earth's environment, sustainability, and energy resources. Optional teacher-scored labs and projects encourage students to apply the scientific method. Other activities, such as practices and journals, challenge students to explore topics more deeply in order to enhance students understanding of core concepts. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA).
HONORS PHYSICS
Physical Sciences
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Physics offers a curriculum that emphasizes students' understanding of fundamental physics concepts while helping them acquire tools to be conversant in a society highly influenced by science and technology. The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice critical scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Topics include the nature of science, math for physics, energy, kinematics, force and motion, momentum, gravitation, chemistry for physics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, waves, nuclear physics, quantum physics, and cosmology. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Throughout this course, students are given opportunities to understand how physics concepts are applied in technology and engineering. Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing skills. Exploration activities challenge Honors students to deconstruct scientific claims, analyze scientific articles, and suggest follow-up experiments or topics for further research. Finally, Project activities allow Honors students to use scientific process skills to delve deeper into topics. This course is built to state standards, the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Project 2061 benchmarks, and the National Science Education Standards (NSES).
PHYSICAL SCIENCE
Physical Sciences
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Physical Science offers a focused curriculum designed around the understanding of foundational physical science concepts, including the nature of matter, energy, and forces, as well as the application of scientific and engineering practices. Course topics include energy, forces, electromagnetism, waves, matter, chemical reactions, and nuclear reactions. Teacher scored labs encourage students to apply the scientific method. Students discover new concepts through guided instruction and confirm their understanding in an interactive, feedback-rich environment. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. A variety of activities encourage students to think scientifically. Lab and Project activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science and engineering. Virtual Lab activities allow students to engage in investigations that require long periods of observation at remote locations and to explore simulations that scientists use to test predictions. In Discussions, students compare their lab results and exchange ideas about their investigations. Practice and Explore activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing and scientific reasoning skills. This course is built to state standards.
PHYSICS
Physical Sciences
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Physics offers a curriculum that emphasizes students' understanding of fundamental physics concepts while helping them acquire tools to be conversant in a society highly influenced by science and technology. The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice critical scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Topics include the nature of science, math for physics, energy, kinematics, force and motion, momentum, gravitation, chemistry for physics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, waves, nuclear physics, quantum physics, and cosmology. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how physics concepts are applied in technology and engineering. Journal and Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing skills. This course is built to state standards and informed by the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Project 2061 benchmarks and the National Science Education Standards.
ECONOMICS
History
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Economics offers a tightly focused and scaffolded curriculum that provides an introduction to key economic principles. The course covers fundamental properties of economics, including an examination of markets from both historical and current perspectives; the basics of supply and demand; the theories of early economic philosophers such as Adam Smith and David Ricardo; theories of value; the concept of money and how it evolved; the role of banks, investment houses, and the Federal Reserve; Keynesian economics; the productivity, wages, investment, and growth involved in capitalism; unemployment, inflations, and the national debt; and a survey of the global economy. Economics is designed to fall in the fourth year of social studies instruction. Students establish mastery of key economic principles through a scaffolded series of analytic written assignments and lesson tests. They also apply basic mathematics to economic concepts. This course is built to state standards and further informed by standards from the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies.
GEOGRAPHY AND WORLD CULTURES
History
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Geography and World Cultures offers a tightly focused and scaffolded curriculum that enables students to explore how geographic features, human relationships, political and social structures, economics, science and technology, and the arts have developed and influenced life in countries around the world. Along the way, students are given rigorous instruction on how to read maps, charts, and graphs, and how to create them. Geography and World Cultures is built to state standards and informed by standards from the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies. Geography and World Cultures is designed as the first course in the social studies sequence. It develops note-taking skills, teaches the basic elements of analytic writing, and introduces students to the close examination of primary documents.
HONORS GEOGRAPHY & WORLD CULTURES
History
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Geography and World Cultures Honors is a robust, one-semester course that explores how geographic features, human relationships, political and social structures, economics, science and technology, and the arts have developed and influenced life in countries around the world. Along the way, students are given rigorous instruction on how to read maps, charts, and graphs, and how to create them. Geography and World Cultures Honors is designed as the first course in the social studies sequence. It develops notetaking skills, teaches analytic writing, and introduces students to the close examination of primary documents. This course is built to state standards and informed by standards from the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies.
HONORS US GOVERNMENT & POLITICS
US Government
0.5 unit (1 semester)
In U.S. Government and Politics Honors, students examine the history, principles, and function of the political system established by the U.S. Constitution. Starting with a basic introduction to the role of government in society and the philosophies at the heart of American democracy, this course provides students with the knowledge needed to be informed and empowered participants in the U.S. political system. Through critical reading activities, feedback-rich instruction, and application-oriented assignments, students develop their capacity to conduct research, analyze sources, make arguments, and take informed action. In written assignments, students address critical questions about U.S. politics and the role of individual Americans in politics and political organizations. In discussion activities, students respond to political opinions, take a position, and defend their own claims. Formative and summative assessments provide students and teachers with ample opportunities to check in, review, and evaluate students progress in the course. For Honors students, the course culminates with a multipart independent research project focused on a topic of their choice. This course is built to state standards and informed by the College, Career, and Civil Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies State Standards, and the National Standard for Civics and Government.
HONORS US HISTORY SINCE CIVIL WAR
US History
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
U.S. History since the Civil War Honors traces the nation's history from the end of the Civil War to the present. It describes the emergence of the United States as an industrial nation, highlighting social policy as well as its role in modern world affairs. Students evaluate the attempts to bind the nation together during Reconstruction while also exploring the growth of an industrial economy. Moving into the 20th and 21st centuries, students probe the economic and diplomatic interactions between the United States and other world players while investigating how the world wars, the Cold War, and the "information revolution" affected the lives of ordinary Americans. Woven through this chronological sequence is a strong focus on the changing conditions of women, African Americans, and other minority groups. The course emphasizes the development of historical analysis skills such as comparing and contrasting, differentiating between facts and interpretations, considering multiple perspectives, and analyzing cause-and-effect relationships. These skills are applied to text interpretation and in written assignments that guide students step-by-step through problemsolving activities. Honors students perfect their ability to use logic and evidence to create persuasive written arguments in five-paragraph essays, two independent research projects, and shorter exercises such as document-based questions and analytic discussions. The course is built to state standards and standards from the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies.
HONORS WORLD HISTORY
History
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
In World History Honors, students learn to see the world today as the product of a process that began thousands of years ago, when humans became a speaking, traveling, and trading species. Through historical analysis grounded in primary sources, case studies, and research, students investigate the continuity and change of human culture, governments, economic systems, and social structures. Students build and practice historical thinking skills, learning to connect specific people, places, events, and ideas to the larger trends of world history. In critical reading activities, feedback-rich instruction, and application-oriented assignments, students develop their capacity to reason chronologically, interpret and synthesize sources, identify connections between ideas, and develop well-supported historical arguments. Students write throughout the course, responding to primary sources and historical narratives through journal entries, essays, and visual presentations of social studies content. In discussion activities, students respond to the positions of others while staking and defending their own claims. Honors students also complete two independent research projects focused on historical periods of their choosing. This course is built to state standards
MODERN WORLD HISTORY
History
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
In Modern World History from 1600, students study the major turning points that shaped the modern world including the Enlightenment, industrialization, imperialism, nationalism, political revolutions, the world wars, the Cold War, decolonization, and globalization. By presenting content from multiple perspectives and through diverse primary and secondary source materials, this course provides students with a solid foundation in the history of the modern era and prepares students to be active and informed citizens of the world. Through critical reading activities, feedback-rich instruction, and application-oriented assignments, students develop their capacity to conduct research, analyze sources, make arguments, and take informed action. In written assignments, students address critical questions about the history of the modern era. In discussion activities, students respond to diverse opinions, take positions, and defend their own claims. Formative and summative assessments provide students and teachers with ample opportunities to check in, review, and evaluate students' progress in the course. This course is built to state standards.
U.S. GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
US Government
0.5 unit (1 semester)
In U.S. Government and Politics, students examine the history, principles, and function of the political system established by the U.S. Constitution. Starting with a basic introduction to the role of government in society and the philosophies at the heart of American democracy, this course provides students with the knowledge needed to be informed and empowered participants in the U.S. political system. Through critical reading activities, feedback-rich instruction, and application-oriented assignments, students develop their capacity to conduct research, analyze sources, make arguments, and take informed action. In written assignments, students address critical questions about U.S. politics and the role of individual Americans in the politics and political organizations. In discussion activities, students respond to political opinions, take a position, and defend their own claims. Formative and summative assessments provide students and teachers with ample opportunities to check in, review, and evaluate students progress in the course. This course is built to state standards and informed by the College, Career, and Civil Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies State Standards and the National Standard for Civics and Government.
U.S. HISTORY SINCE THE CIVIL WAR
US History
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
This course traces the nation's history from the end of the Civil War to the present. It describes the emergence of the United States as an industrial nation, highlighting social policy as well as its role in modern world affairs. Students evaluate the attempts to bind the nation together during Reconstruction while also exploring the growth of an industrial economy. Moving into the 20th and 21st centuries, students probe the economic and diplomatic interactions between the United States and other world players while investigating how the world wars, the Cold War, and the "information revolution" affected the lives of ordinary Americans. Woven through this chronological sequence is a strong focus on the changing conditions of women, African Americans, and other minority groups. The course emphasizes the development of historical analysis skills such as comparing and contrasting, differentiating between facts and interpretations, considering multiple perspectives, and analyzing cause-and-effect relationships. These skills are applied to text interpretation and in written assignments that guide learners step-by-step through problem-solving activities. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies.
U.S. HISTORY TO THE CIVIL WAR
History
0.5 unit (1 semester)
This course traces the nation's history from the pre-colonial period to the end of the American Civil War. It emphasizes the colonial period and the creation of a new nation and examines the beliefs and philosophies that informed the American Revolution and the subsequent formation of the government and political system. Students first explore the earliest points of contact between individuals from Europe, Africa, and North America. They then probe the economic, cultural, and social motives for the nation's expansion, as well as the conflicting notions of liberty that eventually resulted in the Civil War. Woven throughout this narrative history is a strong focus on the changing conditions of women, African Americans, and other minority groups. The ways in which Americans lived, ate, dressed, and interacted are also highlighted. The course emphasizes the development of historical analysis skills such as comparing and contrasting, differentiating between facts and interpretations, considering multiple perspectives, and analyzing cause-and-effect relationships. These skills are applied to text interpretation and in written assignments that guide learners step-by-step through problem-solving activities. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies.
WORLD HISTORY
History
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
In World History, students learn to see the world today as a product of a process that began thousands of years ago when humans became a speaking, travelling, and trading species. Through historical analysis grounded in primary sources, case studies, and research, students investigate the continuity and change of human culture, governments, economic systems, and social structures. Students build and practice historical thinking skills, learning to connect specific people, places, events and ideas to the larger trends of world history. In critical reading activities, feedback-rich instruction, and application-oriented assignments, students develop their capacity to reason chronologically, interpret and synthesize sources, identify connections between ideas, and develop well-supported historical arguments. Students write throughout the course, responding to primary sources and historical narratives through journal entries, essays and visual presentations of social studies content. In discussion activities, students respond to the position of others while staking and defending their own claim. The course's rigorous instruction is supported with relevant materials and active learning opportunities to ensure students at all levels can master the key historical thinking skills. This course is built to state standards.
WORLD HISTORY TO THE RENAISSANCE
History
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
World History to the Renaissance traces the development of civilizations around the world from prehistory to the Renaissance. The course covers major themes in world history, including the development and influence of human-geographic relationships, political and social structures, economic systems, major religions and belief systems, science and technology, and the arts. Topics covered in this course include the birth of civilizations; the classical civilizations of India, China, Greece, and Rome; the rise of new empires such as the Byzantine; and an examination of civilizations in Africa and North and South America. From there, students journey to the Middle Ages and into the Renaissance. Primary source documents, which appear frequently, encourage students to make connections to evidence from the past. Writing skills are honed through a spiraled sequence of short analytic pieces. This course is built to state standards and further informed by standards from the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies.
ACCOUNTING I
Elective
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Accounting I examines how to make decisions about planning, organizing, and allocating resources using accounting procedures. Throughout the course, students focus on double-entry accounting; methods and principles of recording business transactions; the preparation of various documents used in recording revenues, expenses, assets, and liabilities; and the preparation of financial statements. This course allows students to explore careers in accounting while learning skills applicable to any professional setting. Students will engage in project-based activities such as analyzing financial statements; implementing the accounts payable and accounts receivable process; and determining payroll expenses and taxes. Active learning ensures that students continually focus on the technical and interpersonal skills necessary to prepare them for workplace. In addition, students will evaluate the roles and qualifications required for specific accounting careers so they can identify opportunities of interest to them. Accounting I is a full-year intermediate Career and Technical Education course applicable to programs of study in the Finance or Business Management and Administration career clusters. This course is built to state and national CTE standards. Students who successfully complete the course will be prepared to pursue certifications such as Associate in Regulation and Compliance, Certified Management Accountant, or Certified Quality Auditor.
ACCOUNTING II
Elective
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Accounting II builds on the foundation acquired in Accounting I, allowing students to extend their skills and knowledge in the subject. The course focuses on various managerial, financial, and operational accounting activities that require the formulation, interpretation, and communication of financial information for use in management decision making. Students will use equations, graphical representations, accounting tools, spreadsheet software, and accounting systems in real-world situations to maintain, monitor, control, and plan the use of financial resources. This course allows students to explore careers in accounting while learning financial skills applicable to any professional setting. Students engage in project-based activities such as analyzing financial statements, implementing the accounts payable and accounts receivable process, and determining payroll expenses and taxes. Active learning ensures that students continually focus on the technical and interpersonal skills necessary to prepare them for workplace. In addition, students evaluate the roles and qualifications required for specific accounting careers, so they can identify opportunities that interest them. Accounting II is a full-year advanced Career and Technical Education course applicable to programs of study in the Finance or Business Management and Administration career clusters. This course is built to state and national CTE standards. Students who successfully complete the course will be prepared to pursue certifications such as Associate in Regulation and Compliance, Certified Management Accountant, or Certified Quality Auditor.
ART APPRECIATION
Fine Arts
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Art Appreciation is a survey of the history of Western visual arts, with a primary focus on painting. Students begin with an introduction to the basic principles of painting and learn how to critique and compare works of art. Students then explore prehistoric and early Greek and Roman art before they move on to the Middle Ages. Emphasis is placed on the Renaissance and the principles and masters that emerged in Italy and northern Europe. Students continue their art tour with the United States during the 20th century, a time of great innovation as abstract art took center stage. While Western art is the course's primary focus, students will finish the course by studying artistic traditions from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Coverage of each artistic movement highlights historical context and introduces students to key artists that represent a variety of geographic locations. Throughout the course, students apply what they have learned about art critique to analyze and evaluate both individual artists and individual works of art. This course is built to state standards and informed by the Consortium of National Arts Education Associations standards. It encompasses a variety of skills to enable students to critique, compare, and perhaps influence their own works of art.
COLLEGE AND CAREER PREPARATION I
Elective
0.5 unit (1 semester)
High school students have many questions about the college application process, what it takes to be a successful college student, and how to begin thinking about their careers. In College and Career Preparation I, students obtain a deeper understanding of what it means to be ready for college. Students are informed about the importance of high school performance in college admissions and how to prepare for college testing. They know the types of schools and degrees they may choose to pursue after high school and gain wide exposure to the financial resources available that make college attainable. Career readiness is also a focus. Students connect the link between interests, college majors, and future careers by analyzing career clusters. Students come away from this course understanding how smart preparation and skill development in high school can lead into expansive career opportunities after they have completed their education and are ready for the working world. Students who complete College and Career Preparation I have the basic skills and foundation of knowledge to progress into College and Career Preparation II, the capstone course that provides hands-on information about the transition from high school to college and career. This course is built to the American School Counselors Association National Standards for school counseling programs.
COLLEGE AND CAREER PREPARATION II
Elective
0.5 unit (1 semester)
High school students have many questions about the college application process, what it takes to be a successful college student, and how to begin thinking about their careers. College and Career Preparation II builds on the lessons and skills in College and Career Preparation I. The course provides a step-by-step guide to choosing a college. It walks students through the process of filling out an application, including opportunities to practice, and takes an in-depth look at the various college-admission tests and assessments, as well financial aid options. College and Career Preparation II also instructs students in interviewing techniques and provides career guidance. Students explore valuable opportunities such as job shadowing and internships when preparing for a career. Students who complete this course obtain a deeper understanding of college and career readiness through informative, interactive critical thinking and analysis activities while sharpening their time management, organization, and learning skills that they learned in College and Career Preparation I. College and Career Preparation II prepares students with the knowledge and skills to be successful in college and beyond. This course is built to the American School Counselors Association National Standards for school counseling programs.
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
Computer Technology
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Computer Applications provides an introduction to software applications that prepares students to succeed in the workplace and beyond. Students will develop an understanding of professional communications and leadership skills while gaining proficiency with word processing, email, and presentation management software. Students will also be able to demonstrate digital literacy through basic study web publishing and design, spreadsheets and database software. This course allows students to explore careers in the fields of business and information technology while learning skills applicable to any professional setting. Through a series of hands-on activities, students will create, analyze, and critique reports, letters, project plans, presentations, and other professional communications. Regular engagement in active learning ensures students can continually refine the skills necessary to prepare them for work. In addition, students will evaluate the qualifications required for specific careers so they can identify opportunities that are of interest to them. Computer Applications is an introductory level Career and Technical Education course applicable to programs of study in Business Management and Administration, Information Technology, and other career clusters. This course is built to state and national standards.
COMPUTER SCIENCE ESSENTIALS
Computer Technology
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Computer Science Essentials offers a focused curriculum designed around foundational computer science concepts, including computer systems, programming, networks, and data management. The course also introduces students to foundational computer science skills such as coding, troubleshooting, and being a responsible digital citizen. Course topics include the history and impact of computers; careers in computer science; computing laws and ethics; bias and equity issues in computing; algorithms and coding; data storage, organization, and analysis; hardware and software; robotics; networks and the internet; cybersecurity and online safety; website design; and the use of abstraction in computing. Students discover new concepts through guided instruction and confirm their understanding in an interactive, feedback-rich environment. A variety of activities encourage students to explore different aspects of computer science. Lab activities guide students through coding their own programs. Project and Explore activities reinforce critical thinking, research, writing, and communication skills. In addition, Project activities guide students through the development of different types of computer artifacts. In Discussions, students conduct research on current computing topics and then exchange ideas with their peers. Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing, reasoning, and computer literacy skills. This course is built to state standards.
CREATIVE WRITING
Elective
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Creative Writing is an English elective course that focuses on the exploration of short fiction and poetry, culminating in a written portfolio that includes one revised short story and three to five polished poems. Students draft, revise, and polish fiction and poetry through writing exercises, developing familiarity with literary terms and facility with the writing process as they study elements of creative writing. Elements of fiction writing explored in this course include attention to specific detail, observation, character development, setting, plot, and point of view. In the poetry units, students learn about the use of sensory details and imagery, figurative language, and sound devices including rhyme, rhythm and alliteration. They also explore poetic forms ranging from found poems and slam poetry to traditional sonnets and villanelles. In addition to applying literary craft elements in guided creative writing exercises, students engage in critical reading activities designed to emphasize the writing craft of a diverse group of authors. Students study short stories by authors such as Bharati Mukherjee and Edgar Allan Poe, learning how to create believable characters and develop setting and plot. Likewise, students read poetry by canonical greats such as W. B. Yeats and Emily Dickinson as well as contemporary writers such as Pablo Neruda, Sherman Alexie, and Alice Notley. Studying the writing technique of a range of authors provides students with models and inspiration as they develop their own voices and refine their understanding of the literary craft. By taking a Creative Writing course, students find new approaches to reading and writing that can affect them on a personal level, as the skills they gain in each lesson directly benefit their own creative goals. Students who are already actively engaged writers and readers learn additional tools and insight into the craft of writing to help them further hone their skills and encourage their creative as well as academic growth. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards.
FINANCIAL LITERACY
Personal Financial Literacy
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Financial Literacy offers an engaging, scaffolded curriculum that introduces key topics and principles necessary to financial literacy. The one-semester course covers earning and spending; savings and investing; credit and debt; protection of assets; and financial planning and decision-making. Through real-life scenarios and hands-on activities, the course explores choosing among banking and investment options, shopping for an auto loan, choosing among career and college options, financing options for continuing education, planning for retirement, and creating and living within a budget. As a social studies course, Financial Literacy is designed to complement courses in Economics and Mathematics for Personal Finance. This course is built to state standards and further informed by standards from the Council for Economic Education's National Standards for Financial Literacy and the JumpStart Coalition for Personal Financial Literacy's National Standards in K-12 Personal Finance Education.
HEALTH
Elective
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Health is a valuable, skills-based health education course designed for general education in grades 9 through 12. Health helps students develop knowledge, attitudes, and essential skills in a variety of health-related subjects, including mental and emotional health, social health, nutrition, physical fitness, substance use and abuse, disease prevention and treatment, and injury prevention and safety. Through use of accessible information and project-based learning, students apply the skills they need to stay healthy. These skills include identifying and accessing valid health information, practicing self-management, identifying internal and external influences, communicating effectively, making healthy decisions, setting goals, and advocating. Students who complete Health build the skills they need to protect, enhance, and promote their own health and the health of others. This course is built to state standards.
HUMAN RESOURCES PRINCIPLES
Elective
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Human Resources Principles examines the main functions of human resources management, including planning, recruitment, selection, training, development, compensation, and evaluation. In so doing, the course provides students with the tools to hire, manage, and fire employees. Students will also explore the unique role of human resources in the larger organization. This course allows students to explore careers in business while learning skills applicable to any professional setting. Through a series of hands-on activities, students will create a recruiting plan, develop a strategy to promote a positive organizational culture, and analyze the impact of globalization on the human resources. Regular engagement in active learning ensures students can continually refine the skills necessary to prepare them for work. In addition, students will evaluate the qualifications required for specific careers so they can identify opportunities of interest to them. Human Resources Principles is a full-year intermediate or capstone Career and Technical Education course applicable to programs of study in the Business, Management and Administration career cluster. This course is built to state and national standards. Students who successfully complete the course will be prepared to pursue certifications such as Associate Professional in Human ResourcesTM, Certified Administrative Manager, or Certified Associate in Project Management (CAPM).
LEGAL ENVIRONMENT OF BUSINESS
Elective
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Legal Environment of Business examines the role of the law on all aspects of business ownership and management. Throughout the course, students focus on legal ethics, court procedures, torts, contracts, consumer law, property law, employment law, environmental law, and international law. Students also explore the impact of laws, regulations, and judicial decisions on society at large. This course allows students to explore careers in business while learning skills applicable to any professional setting. Through a series of hands-on activities, students will prepare legal documents, create a compliance plan, and research consumer protection issues. Regular engagement in active learning ensures students can continually refine the skills necessary to prepare them for work. In addition, students will evaluate the qualifications required for specific careers so they can identify opportunities of interest to them. Legal Environment of Business is a full-year intermediate or capstone Career and Technical Education course applicable to programs of study in the Business, Management and Administration career cluster. This course is built to state and national standards. Students who successfully complete the course will be prepared to pursue certifications such as Accredited Legal Professional, Certified Administrative Manager, or Certified Associate in Project Management.
MEDIA LITERACY
Elective
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Media Literacy teaches students how to build the critical thinking, writing, and reading skills required in a media-rich and increasingly techno-centric world. In a world saturated with media messages, digital environments, and social networking, concepts of literacy must expand to include all forms of media. Today's students need to be able to read, comprehend, analyze, and respond to non-traditional media with the same skill level they engage with traditional print sources. A major topic in Media Literacy is non-traditional media reading skills, including how to approach, analyze, and respond to advertisements, blogs, websites, social media, news media, and wikis. Students also engage in a variety of writing activities in non-traditional media genres, such as blogging and podcast scripting. Students consider their own positions as consumers of media and explore ways to use non-traditional media to become more active and thoughtful citizens. Students learn how to ask critical questions about the intended audience and underlying purpose of media messages, and study factors which can contribute to bias and affect credibility. This course is built to state standards and informed by The National Association for Media Literacy Education's Core Principles of Media Literacy Education.
MUSIC APPRECIATION
Fine Arts
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Music Appreciation introduces students to the history, theory, and genres of music, from the most primitive surviving examples through the classical to the most contemporary in the world at large. The course is offered in a two-semester format. The first semester covers primitive musical forms and classical music. The second semester presents the rich modern traditions, including American jazz, gospel, folk, soul, blues, Latin rhythms, rock and roll, and hip-hop. The course explores the interface of music and social movements and examines how the emergent global society and the Internet bring musical forms together in new ways from all around the world.
PRINC OF BUSINESS, MARKET, & FINANCE
Elective
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance provides the knowledge and skills students need for careers in business and marketing. Students begin exploring roles and functions that business and marketing play in a global society, develop an understanding of the market place, as well as understanding product placement and promotion. Students analyze the impact of government, legal systems, and organized labor on business; develop an understanding of business communications and management; and explore legal, ethical, and financial issues in business and marketing. Furthermore, students delve into basic economic concepts including personal finance, economic systems, cost-profit relationships, and economic indicators and trends. Using hands-on activities, students reinforce, apply and transfer academic knowledge and skills to a variety of interesting and relevant real-world inspired scenarios. This course focuses on developing knowledge and skills around marketing, pricing, distribution and management, while also focusing on economics and interpersonal skills. This course also addresses exploring career options in business and marketing as well as securing and keeping a job. Principles of Business, Marketing, and Finance is a full-year Career and Technical course for programs of study in Business Administration and Management. This course is built to state and national standards.
PRINCIPLES OF HEALTH SCIENCE
Elective
1.0 unit (2 semesters)
Principles of Health Science provides knowledge and skills students need for careers in health care. Students explore the services, structure, and professions of the health care system and get guidance on choosing a specific career path in health services, including career paths in emergency medicine, nutrition, and alternative medicine. Students focus on day-to-day skills and expectations for health professionals, which include promoting wellness, maintaining a safe environment, creating medical records, and practicing good communication, collaboration, and leadership. In addition, students will expand their understanding of health and safety systems, how to address emergency situations, and deal with infection control issues. Students will also explore topics in medical science, terminology, procedures, and regulations - including an overview of physiology and medical measurements. Using real-life scenarios and application-driven activities, students learn the responsibilities and challenges of being health care professionals and deepen their knowledge of various career options. In addition to building their understanding of technical concepts and skills, students evaluate the qualifications required for specific careers and develop personal career plans to pursue work in the health care industry and extend their knowledge of oral and written communication in health science. Principles of Health Science is a full-year Career and Technical Education course for programs of study in health sciences. This course is built to state and national standards.
PSYCHOLOGY
Additional Core
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Psychology provides a solid overview of the field's major domains: methods, biopsychology, cognitive and developmental psychology, and variations in individual and group behavior. By focusing on significant scientific research and on the questions that are most important to psychologists, students see psychology as an evolving science. Each topic clusters around challenge questions, such as What is happiness? Students answer these questions before, during, and after they interact with direct instruction. This course is built to state standards and informed by the American Psychological Association's National Standards for High School Psychology Curricula. The teaching methods draw from the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) teaching standards.
READING SKILLS AND STRATEGIES
Elective
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Reading Skills and Strategies is a course is designed to help the struggling reader develop mastery in the areas of reading comprehension, vocabulary building, study skills, and media literacy, which are the course's primary content strands. Using these strands, the course guides the student through the skills necessary to be successful in the academic world and beyond. The reading comprehension strand focuses on introducing the student to the varied purposes of reading (e.g., for entertainment, for information, to complete a task, or to analyze). In the vocabulary strand, the student learns specific strategies for understanding and remembering new vocabulary. In the study skills strand, the student learns effective study and test-taking strategies. In the media literacy strand, the student learns to recognize and evaluate persuasive techniques, purposes, design choices, and effects of media. The course encourages personal enjoyment in reading with 10 interviews featuring the book choices and reading adventures of students and members of the community. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards.
SOCIOLOGY
Additional Core
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Sociology examines why people think and behave as they do in relationships, groups, institutions, and societies. Major course topics include individual and group identity, social structures and institutions, social change, social stratification, social dynamics in recent and current events, the effects of social change on individuals, and the research methods used by social scientists. In online discussions and polls, students reflect critically on their own experiences and ideas, as well as on the ideas of sociologists. Interactive multimedia activities include personal and historical accounts to which students can respond, using methods of inquiry from sociology. Written assignments provide opportunities to practice and develop skills in thinking and communicating about human relationships, individual and group identity, and all other major course topics. This course is built to state standards and the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Expectations of Excellence: Curriculum Standards for Social Studies.
WRITING SKILLS AND STRATEGIES
Elective
0.5 unit (1 semester)
Writing Skills and Strategies develops key language arts skills necessary for high school graduation and success on high stakes exams through a semester of interactive instruction and guided practice in composition fundamentals. The course is divided into ten mini-units of study. The first two are designed to build early success and confidence, orienting students to the writing process and to sentence and paragraph essentials through a series of low-stress, high-interest hook activities. In subsequent units, students review, practice, compose and submit one piece of writing. Four key learning strands are integrated throughout: composition practice, grammar skill building, diction and style awareness, and media and technology exploration. Guided studies emphasize the structure of essential forms of writing encountered in school, in life, and in the work place. Practice in these forms is scaffolded to accommodate learners at different skill levels. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards.