scorpiodragon
Five Thousand Club
English
(4 years are required for graduation)
English 9(4 years are required for graduation)
Students in English 1 follow the guidelines established by the California Content standards in their study of reading, vocabulary, and writing in order that they can master skills tested on the California State High School Exit Exam. These skills include systematic vocabulary analysis, definition and study of the major genres of literature, and writing practice in the areas of literary response, autobiographical narrative, and business letter. A comprehensive course designed to prepare students for state testing. Emphasis will be placed on increasing student vocabulary, enhancing reading skills, and developing writing skills by means of applied grammar in the areas of fiction, nonfiction, poetry and drama. The core works studied are Shakespeare's Romeo and Juliet and Steinbeck's Of Mice and Men, supplemented by many other works from the extended reading list, such as The House on Mango Street, and The Odyssey. Most of the literature is centered on the theme of The Hero's Journey. In class, students will be reading and discussing poems, short stories, the novel Call of The Wild by Jack London and A Separate Peace by John Knowles, the epic poem, “The Odyssey,” the drama Romeo and Juliet and a nonfiction book and will complete book projects reflective of skills learned throughout the school year. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: None
Honors English 9
Honors English 1 is designed to prepare students for the rigor of Honors and AP Language and Composition their Junior year of high school. College Board expectations, along with the Common Core Standards set forth by the state of California will be the foundation of this course. Students will be expected to study the writing process and various pieces of literature. Extensive reading, writing, listening and speaking, and critical thinking will be expected from all students. Teacher recommendation, and various reading and writing test scores will be the basis of admission into this class. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: Teacher Recommendation
English Electives
NOTE: The following courses are offered in the English Department, but will not satisfy English requirements for graduation.
Creative WritingNOTE: The following courses are offered in the English Department, but will not satisfy English requirements for graduation.
In Creative Writing, the student will explore and develop his/her own writing abilities in the areas of fiction, poetry, playwriting (and screenwriting). Craft and technique are discussed through the reading of published writers, along with extensive discussion of student manuscripts. The course covers story construction, character development, dialogue, description, and the basics of clear, lively use of language. Once students have been exposed to various types of writing, they complete short exercises in creative writing and an extended project of their choice. 1 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Journalism 1
This is a course in which students learn techniques for gathering information, conducting interviews, and writing news, feature and sports stories, as well as learning how to construct effective editorials. Part of the course deals with learning the technical skills necessary to produce the school newspaper, the Dolphin Gazette. Journalism is an excellent course for the college-bound student because it addresses critical thinking and organizational skills. .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Yearbook
Yearbook is a course in which students publish the yearbook at Pacifica Point High School. Students interested in photography, graphics, journalism, advertising, sales and public relations may gain experience in this class. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: None
Mystery Fiction
This course is designed to expose the student to various types of mystery novels. Classic authors such as Edgar A. Poe, Ellery Queen, Agatha Christie, and Conan Doyle will be read. The students will be reading at least one novel outside of the class and do a novel project. They will be responsible for preparing an APA research paper on each author covered and completing an I – Search project. .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Public Speaking
The major purpose of this course it to “draw the student out of his shell” in a group speaking situation and to enable him to have greater confidence and skills in oral communication. Through group discussion and public speaking, the student is taught to enhance his communication skills. Students will work in the areas of speech research, organization and development, writing and delivery. .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: none
Mythology
Mythology class introduces students to the classical gods through ancient tales and legends of the Greeks. Students will see how myths played an important part in all facets of Greek society and make modern connections through allusions. Works include Mythology and You, Oedipus, Homer the Iliad, Medea, and King Arthur among others. Several books are covered and there will be several writing assignments, research assignments (MLA format), and projects/presentations. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Science Fiction
This class will help students examine the ways in which science fiction reflects popular culture and the concerns of society today. In reading science fiction by authors from various time periods, and in viewing excerpts from some science fiction films, students will sharpen their abilities to think critically and make text-to-text and global connections. Authors who will be read include but are not limited to Isaac Asimov, H.G. Wells, Ray Bradbury, George Orwell, Jules Verne, Ursula Le Guin, Michael Crichton, Margaret Atwood, Richard Matheson, and Octavia Butler. The class will trace the progression of early science fiction, and
how that has morphed into science fact. Significant reading and writing responses will be expected for this class. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
English Language Development
This department is for those students who come to Pacifica Point High from other countries and foreign exchange students. These classes are available to all grades.
Beginning ELDThis department is for those students who come to Pacifica Point High from other countries and foreign exchange students. These classes are available to all grades.
This is a content-based ELD instruction class with a focus on developing the vocabulary necessary for achievement in high school academic classes. Non English Proficient (NEP) students are enrolled in this class semester by semester until they reach the Intermediate Fluency Stage and are ready for sheltered instruction. This class will count towards elective credits. Students must also enroll in Newcomer English. .50 credits, Length: semester, Prerequisites: None
Newcomer English
This course for Newcomers introduces students to the different components of literature and literary analysis, such as theme, characterization, and structure. In addition, students will gain knowledge of foundational literary and identification, application, and enhancement of their understanding of literature. Metacognitive reading strategies will be discussed and utilized to help students become independent and critical readers. Students must also enroll in Beginning ELD. This course counts for English credits. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: Beginning ELD or Placement Test
Intermediate ELD
This course provides early intermediate level students acquiring English the opportunity to improve their fluency in both oral and written communication skills. Using interactive activities, students strengthen their survival skills as well as their oral and written skills in English. Students may repeat this course for credit. 0 credits, .50 credits if repeated, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: Newcomer English
High Intermediate ELD
This course provides high intermediate level students acquiring English the opportunity to improve their fluency in both oral and written communication skills. Using interactive activities, students strengthen their survival skills as well as their oral and written skills in English. Students may repeat this course for credit. 0.50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: Intermediate English or Teacher Recommendation
Advanced ELD
This course is for students acquiring English at the advanced level. Students work on developing their English language skills, both oral and written, to near native fluency in social situations and academic discussions. Specific practice for passing the graduation competencies is regularly provided. Particular attention will be paid to developing oral competence with exercises in public speaking. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: A B minimum plus Intermediate ELD
Mathematics
(Two years are required for high school graduation. Four years are recommended for college bound students. .)
Intensive Pre-Algebra (IEP Plan Required)(Two years are required for high school graduation. Four years are recommended for college bound students. .)
Intensive course geared toward building pre-algebra skills and preparing students to take Algebra 1 next term. 1 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: IEP Plan
Strategic Algebra (IEP Plan Required)
Grade level standards-based courses with fewer students and accommodations for disabilities. 1 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: IEP Plan
Pre-Algebra
This course is designed to strengthen student’s mathematical skills to better prepare them for high school mathematics courses. Topics include ratio, rate, proportional relationships, scale drawings, geometric constructions, and further exploration of multiplication and division of whole numbers, fractions, and integers. Students also will learn about two and three-dimensional shapes and how to find their area, surface area, and volume. Writing, interpreting, using, and solving expressions and/or equations will be explored. A development of statistical thinking will also be introduced. Use of calculators will be limited. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: None
Algebra 1
This one-year course covers the California State Standards for Algebra 1. This course is a required course for high school graduation.
Algebra I is a course combining concepts from Transitional Algebra and Extended Algebraic Concepts. This course consists of basic Algebraic terminology and rules with a study of solving one or two variable equations. Inequalities, functions and relations, radicals and irrational numbers and quadratic equations are introduced. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: Pre-Algebra/Teacher Recommendation.
Honors Geometry 9 (Algebra required in 8th grade)
This course is designed for students who took Algebra in 8th grade. This continues students’ study of geometric concepts. The content of the course will include logic, deductive reasoning, graphing on coordinate axes, and the understanding relationship of points, lines, planes, and familiar geometric figures. Students will move from an inductive approach to deductive methods of proof in their study of two- and three-dimensional geometric figures. Reasoning skills will be emphasized, and students will broaden their use of the coordinate plane. Honors Geometry 9 covers the curriculum of regular Geometry at an accelerated path with the addition of more constructions and enrichment topics. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: Teacher Recommendation
Science
(Two years are required for graduation: a biological/life science and a physical science must be taken. Three years are recommended for college bound students.)
(Two years are required for graduation: a biological/life science and a physical science must be taken. Three years are recommended for college bound students.)
Physical Science
This course is designed to introduce the life sciences and includes a study of cell theory, structure and function, genetics and human heredity, the history of life, and ecology. This course will emphasize scientific processes through a focus on experimental design, data analysis, and basic laboratory skills. In addition, student will explore essential vocabulary and gain an understanding of how biology connects to their life experiences outside the classroom. ***Fee: $15 and calculator required*** 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: Required
Honors Biology
Honors Biology is designed to prepare students for the rigor of AP Biology and AP Chemistry. College Board expectations, along with the Ohio Learning Standards set forth by the state of Ohio, will be the foundation of this course. The course is designed to provide an in-depth look at Life Science, with topics including Ecology, Cell Studies, Genetics and Evolution. Extensive reading, laboratory work, and scientific writing will be expected from all students. Teacher recommendation, GPA, and various test scores will be the basis of admission into this course. ***FEE $35*** Teacher recommendation is required for this class. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: Teacher Recommendation
Family and Consumer Sciences
Smart Foods
Learn to select and prepare food in a laboratory setting. Develop skill in managing time, energy, and money in planning, preparing, and serving nutritious foods. Learn to make well-informed food choices for yourself and family. Make decisions and practice cooperative learning skills. **Fee: $20.*** .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Introduction to Family and Consumer Science
This course will provide students with an overview of the four major content areas of Family and Consumer Sciences. Students will be introduced to child development, family relationship concepts and how they relate to family dynamics, Additionally, students will identify financial literacy and consumer principals. Students will understand the concepts of design through textiles for personal and home use. Cooking, sewing, and your living environment will be covered. Class topics are designed to make your transition to the real world easier. Baby think it over will be a required part of this class. Throughout the course, students will develop communication. Leadership and career investigation skills. ***Fee: $30*** .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Health/Physical Education
Physical Education-.50 credit required for graduation
HealthPhysical Education-.50 credit required for graduation
This is a state-required course for graduation. This class will deal with some difficult areas where individuals must make tough decisions which can impact their lives and futures. Topics will include substance abuse (alcohol, illegal drugs, and related tobacco), sex education (abstinence, anatomy, birth control, and sexually transmitted diseases), decision-making skills, and other health related issues. **Note: All 9th graders are required to take Health. If you took it in 8th grade, you may choose another course.** .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Physical Education
All classes will stress daily physical fitness components including: warm-up exercises, stretching, cardiovascular endurance, and strength exercises. This is a graduation requirement and students are required to dress daily in appropriate clothing including gym shoes. Activities will include a combination of team sports, individual sports, and lifetime skills throughout the semester. .25 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Team Sports
This class will go into greater depth of the concept of team sports. Fundamentals will be reviewed and further developed for understanding the teams’ total involvement for success. There will be various team sports played with rules and insights into the game development. Different exercises will be used in relation with the sports to be played. There will be a greater emphasis on participation and team competition than in physical education classes. .25 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Introduction to Strength Training
This course is geared toward students who have little or no experience in a weight facility. The course content covers an introduction of proper weight lifting techniques, safety precautions, warm up and cool down activities, flexibility exercises, plyometric and cardiovascular conditioning, body-weight routines, and keeping a log of activities and performances throughout the grading period. Students will be evaluated according to improvement, dressing appropriately daily, attendance, and participation. .25 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Fitness For Life
This class is designed to help students develop fitness techniques that will help them maintain a fit and healthy lifestyle. Fitness for life is open to all students regardless of their current fitness level. This class is fitness based with an emphasis on developing lifelong fitness skills. The class will incorporate many different strategies that a student can use throughout their life. These strategies include: circuit training, aerobic/anaerobic conditioning, yoga, weight training, and various fitness challenges. Students will actively participate in activities at their own level with the opportunity to set their own fitness goals including weight loss, toning, and overall fitness. .25 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Women's Fitness
Women’s Fitness is designed to provide females with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes that will empower them to engage in fitness activities that safely and effectively improve their overall fitness and strength for sports. Students will learn fitness training concepts that target women’s needs in the weight room and the gymnasium setting, and then apply those concepts to a regular training program. Students are required to dress appropriately for sports training and participate in rigorous physical activities daily. Students’ grades are earned by demonstrating physical effort and tracking their total fitness as measured by the athletic activities in the training programs. Note: This class is for female students only. .25 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Advanced Strength Training
Students wishing to take Advanced Strength Training must have taken the introductory course OR gain written permission from the instructor. Students will differentiate advanced strength training methods (tri-setting, pyramiding, routines, negatives, super sets, etc.) They will display an understanding of muscle function, proper nutrition, and the physiology of exercise. Students will be able to demonstrate the ability to apply safety guidelines and concepts of specific training activities and initiate responsible personal and social behavior in the physical activity setting. The student will demonstrate the ability to fully explain how weight training and conditioning provide opportunities for enjoyment, self-expression, and social interaction. The student will maintain daily records and fitness testing results. Evaluation will follow the policies expectations of the introductory class. .25 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: Intro-Strength Training
Social Studies
World History
World History is a history of the world from the Enlightenment Era to the 20th century. It emphasizes pertinent historical eras and related concepts. Areas covered include the, Enlightenment, Industrial Rev, Imperialism, World War I, World War II, and the Cold War. Basic skills such as using maps, charts, and graphs will be utilized. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: None
Honors World History
Honors World History is designed to prepare students for the rigor of Honors US History in 10th grade and AP US History during their junior year. College Board expectations and Ohio Common Core Standards will be the foundation of this course. This course is a survey of World History from the Enlightenment to Contemporary Conflicts of the 20th Century. This course will contain a variety of different learning methods to accomplish objectives, both individually and in learning teams. Honors students must be self-motivated to conduct research papers and projects. This course will require note-taking, critical thinking, and extensive reading and writing assignments. Various angles of World History will be presented and alternative readings, other than the text, will be provided. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: Teacher Recommendation
Current Events
Using a variety of media, including weekly magazines, newspapers, videos, essays and speakers, students will be exposed to (or become aware of) different events happening on a local, national and world-wide level. Students will be required to read, discuss, and validate in writing their reactions based on facts. Students will be expected to write essays, position papers, watch documentaries and make presentations to the class. 1 credit, Length: semester, Prerequisites: None
Street Law
Street Law is a practical education course about Law, democracy, and human rights. Street Law is designed to empower students to transform democratic ideals into citizen action. Students will learn how to apply what they have learned in the classroom to the real world. Topics will include every aspect of law
from civil and criminal courts to legal matters related to terrorist activity. .50 credits, Length: Semester; Prerequisites: None
Visual Arts
1 year is required for graduation. The fee for all classes is $10
1 year is required for graduation. The fee for all classes is $10
Everyday Art
A course that explores visual art using mixed media and common materials to create functional or decorative crafts. Students will work with handmade & premade paper, fibers, wood, found objects, paint and fabric. Some of the main assignments for this class include string art, foil embossing, tie-dye, jewelry making, paper filigree, Japanese Notan designs, collaging, and deconstructed cardboard. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Ceramics
This course explores the visual arts in a three-dimensional form using clay. Pinch pots, coil building, slab work, hand building, and additive and subtractive sculpture will be explored Ceramic glazing, slips and various clay firing methods will be covered. Materials will include clay, clay tools, slips and glazes. Additional media can be explored if the situation arises. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Sculpture
A course which explores the visual art in a 3-dimensional forum. Elements of design, color theory, additive and subtractive sculpture concepts will be explored. Students will work with paper sculpture, found object assemblages, cardboard sculpture, plaster sculpture and wire sculpture. Some of the main assignments for this class include mask making, expressive cardboard sculptures, and mobile wire creations. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Drawing
This course explores the visual arts in a 2-dimensional, drawing form. Topics to be covered include drawing basics, elements and principles of design, color theory, composition, perspective, proportioning, content vocabulary, art history, use of a sketchbook, and portfolio building. Some of the main assignments for this class include figure drawing, gesture drawing, sketching, perspective, abstraction, contour drawing, and self portrait. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Painting
This course explores the visual arts using painting. Topics to be covered include basic painting supplies/materials, elements and principles of design, color theory, composition, content vocabulary, art history, color mixing, basic painting techniques, and portfolio building. Some materials include watercolor paint, acrylic paint, tempera paint, oil paint, brushes, various paper, canvas, etc. Some of the main assignments include abstract painting, still life painting, landscape painting, sign painting, and a self-portrait. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Photography
This course explores the visual arts using digital photography. This course will help students become well rounded in the fundamentals and basics of photography. Topics covered include how a camera works, composition, lighting, photo editing software, elements and principals of design, history of photography, portfolio development, and the relevance of photography within the context of the art world. Students will also explore the varied application photography has to the modern working world. .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Multimedia Art
Multimedia Art is a yearlong course in contemporary media, emphasizing the elements of art and the principles of design as they relate to various media platforms. Students will use this knowledge as a critical tool as well as a creative one to produce projects for the school and larger community. The various projects done throughout the year will provide students with skills in photography, graphic design and web design. Software Applications include Adobe Photoshop, Macromedia Freehand, Dreamweaver and Fireworks, Microsoft Word and Power Point. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: None
Performing Arts
Performing Arts consist of Music, Dance, and Theater.
Performing Arts consist of Music, Dance, and Theater.
Music
Introduction to Musical TheoryIntro to Music Theory is a semester long course examining the fundamental elements of music including terminology, rhythms, pitches, scales, intervals, melody, harmony, and chord structure. Students will learn and review musical notation (including rhythm and pitch), develop basic eartraining and sight singing skills, and compose/analyze basic melodies. This course is designed for younger music students as well as students with limited music experience. This course can be a stepping stone to Advanced Music Theory course. Course receives ½ credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: none
Choir
A co-curricular yearlong class with performances each 9 weeks. Students are exposed to both sacred and secular literature in a variety of musical styles and fundamentals of music including note reading, musical terms, ear training, and historical perspectives. Attendance is required at all concerts and rehearsals. 0.50 credit, Length: semester, Prerequisite: none
Band
The study of music with emphasis on instrumental performance of band literature. Specific areas covered are tone production, intonation, phrasing, breath support, balance and blend, technique, rhythm and counting, scales or rudiments, musical terms, and sight-reading. Students participate in Marching Band during football season and in the Concert Bands through the remainder of the year. Students will be divided into two concert bands if the size of the enrollment in the class warrants this action. Placement in each band will be determined by audition. The instrumentation needs of each band will also be taken into consideration. Attendance at rehearsals, concerts, parades and other scheduled performances after school hours is required. Students may also be required to attend a small group lesson once a week during a scheduled intervention or half of one lunch period ***FEE $50 *** 1 credit, Length: 1 year, Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation
Jazz Ensemble
The study of Jazz with emphasis on performance. Specific areas covered are the development of various styles of jazz, major performance, scales, chords, and basic improvising. Enrollment is limited to standard stage band instrumentation – saxophone, trumpet, trombone, guitar, bass guitar, piano and percussion. Band students will be given preference. The class is repeatable over 4 years. *** THIS CLASS OCCURS AFTER THE NORMAL SCHOOL DAY***. .50 credit, Length: semester, Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation-After School
Performance Lab
Performance Lab is a semester long course designed for current band students interested in developing and expanding their instrumental performance skills through various forms of musical study. Students will have the opportunity to work individually on their primary instrument, develop rehearsal and practice strategies, play in a variety of small chamber music ensembles (brass choir, woodwind trio, etc.), and explore other music performance styles such as jazz. This is a practice-based class and will be guided by the instructor. Course receives ½ credit and requires teacher approval, Length: semester
History of American Popular Music
This is a semester long course which broadly examines the fundamentals of music theory, and the history of American music. Students will review music basics (such as rhythm and song form) and trace the development of American styles of music throughout the last 100 years. Course receives ½ credit, Length: semester, Prerequisite: None
Guitar Ensemble 1
Come and jam with us!!! Students will learn basic skills and techniques that are required for guitar performance. We will play in small groups and a large ensemble while covering all styles of music including ROCK AND ROLL. This class will also cover some basic music theory and music history as the students develop their guitar skills and techniques. A final concert where students will play in small groups and a large ensemble is a class requirement and will be the students’ final exam grade. No previous guitar experience required, and you do not need to own your own guitar. This is a semester class that students are welcome to take more than once. Experienced guitarists are welcome too! Students do NOT need to own a guitar to take this class, as we have a classroom set of guitars! .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisite: none
Guitar Ensemble 2
We will expand on the skills that were developed in Guitar Ensemble 1. This will include not limited to bar chords, power cord, Blues and much more. Students must take Guitar Ensemble 1 before taking Guitar Ensemble 2 or audition with the instructor for placement in the class. Students do NOT need to own a guitar to take this class, as we have a classroom set of Guitars! 0.50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisite: Guitar Ensemble 1
Theater
Theater 1 (Introduction to Acting)This class will enhance the students’ appreciation and understanding of the theatrical experience: reading and analysis of plays (live, video and scripts) followed by exercises in written and oral critiques, discussion of the elements of play production and the business of theater. Also, students will study the basics of acting and elements of backstage theatre. This class is intended to enhance student’s ability to become an appreciative and discerning theater audience member. No previous theater experience is required. .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Theater 2 (Backstage)
This class will be centered around all that goes in to the technical and backstage part of a production. Subjects will include lighting, sound, set design, set construction and more. This class will be a hands-on learning environment. This class is open to any student. .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisite: None
Technical Theater Squad
This class will be the tech squad that will run all technical aspects of the non-drama events that happen in the Performing Arts Center. Technical knowledge of safety procedures and demonstrated safe operations of theatre equipment are central to success in this course. Students will be required to attend or participate in technical work, rehearsals, and/or performances beyond the school day to support, extend, and assess learning in the classroom. Students in this class will be required to purchase a $10.00 “Theatre Tech Squad” shirt. .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisite: None
Drama 1
Drama 1 is a basic drama course in which students read dramatic literature from a variety of genres. Students should be prepared to give oral readings and memorize scenes for in classroom performance. Students will study theater history as well as play structure and basic acting techniques. Written classroom assignments as well as homework are mandatory. A large part of daily work will be through improvisation and pantomime .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Musical Theater
This is an introductory course exploring the fundamentals of song analysis and dance technique in the preparation of music theatre repertory for performance. Emphasis on solo song preparation and audition preparation. Basic music skills, dance technique, and/or singing ability are highly recommended, but all levels welcome. This class will prepare you to pursue a future in Musical Theatre and teach you how to be a true “Triple Threat.” .50 credit, Length: Semester, Drama 1 is required as a pre-req for this class.
Intro to Directing and Acting Stage Management
This course investigates the theories and techniques of stage management and directing. It includes a thorough examination of various activities performed by stage managers and the director in different production situations, as well as discussions relating to standard practices and common variations. This course will help you develop organizational skills, which will be useful throughout your careers and lives. Successful completion of this course will give students the skills and background needed to undertake actual stage management at the university level. Prerequisite of a previous theatre class or involvement in a theater production. .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Dance
This year long course is designed for all levels. Students will learn a variety of dance styles: Modern, Jazz, Musical Theater, African and Hip-Hop. Activities will include a technical warm-up, positioning, alignment, centering and balance as applied to turns, falls, extensions and movement through space. Students will also study some of the history of dance. The focus is on developing technique and artistic proficiency. This class may be repeated for credit. 1 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisite: None
Contemporary Dance 2
This year long course further explores techniques learned in Contemporary Dance 1. Students will learn a variety of dance genres including jazz, hip-hop, ballet, break dance, and improvisation. Students will choreograph their own dance pieces and become comfortable performing in front of an audience. Students will learn to appreciate and analyze dance critically and will understand dance vocabulary and history. Students will improve their kinesthetic awareness, preventing injury and promoting physical strength and agility. This class further develops the intermediate dancer’s technique and cultivates each student’s creative voice. 1 credit, Length: Semester, Pre-req: Contemporary Dance 1 or permission of instructor.
World Languages
A foreign language, 2 years to graduate high school or 3 years recommended for college bound students is required)
This is the first course of the Spanish program designed to introduce students to the language and culture. Students will use communication skills through the three modes of communication –interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational. Additionally, students will develop their writing, speaking, and listening skills in a cultural context with the use of authentic materials. There is also an introduction to the culture of Spain, Latin America and Southwestern United States. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: C in English
German 1
This is the first course of the German program, designed to introduce students to the language and culture. Students will use communication skills through the three modes of communication -interpretive, interpersonal, and presentational. Additionally, students will develop their writing, speaking, and listening skills in a cultural context with the use of authentic materials. There is also an introduction to Germany. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: C in English
French 1
This is the first course of the French program in which students will be introduced to basic communication skills in speaking, reading and writing. Emphasis is given to the development of listening comprehension and speaking, as well as exploring the various aspects of French culture. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: C in English
Mandarin 1
This is a beginning Mandarin Chinese course intended for students with no prior knowledge. Students are introduced to both the language and the culture. Pinyin with tones, stroke order of character writing, and structure of Chinese language are stressed in the first semester. Throughout the school year, students learn the vocabulary and basic communication skills needed for listening, speaking, reading and writing. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: C in English
Electives
Electives consist of Information Technology courses and STEM courses.
Information Technology
This course is designed for the student to develop knowledge about the practical uses of computers in everyday activities. The student will enhance their computer skills from basic techniques to advanced skills utilizing Google drive apps for cloud storage, file sharing, editing and collaboration. Fee: $25 .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Digital Art & Animation
This course is designed for students to develop skills in creating digital art and computer animation, using Photoshop. Flash will also be used to create advanced animations and add interactivity. Fee: $25 .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Video Production & Editing
Introduces the basics of video production utilizing a personal camcorder and video editing software. Students study camera angle, basic shots, video composition, and planning for visual storytelling. Students work in groups to create video projects utilizing post-production editing. Fee: $40 .50 Credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Web Design
Students will learn the dynamics of the web environment while pursuing an in-depth study of Hypertext Markup Language (HTML) and Cascading Style Sheets (CSS). Web based protocols will be addressed, and students will create websites with tag text elements, special characters, lines, graphics, hypertext links and graphical tables. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: MS IT or CBC
Programming
Think you want to be a computer programmer? In this course, students will learn the basics of building simple interactive applications. Students will learn the basic units of logic: sequence, selection, and loop. Students will apply algorithmic solutions to problem-domain scenarios. Students will gain experience in using commercial and open source languages, programs, and applications. 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: MS IT or CBC
STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math)
Manufacturing Operations
Students will learn the processes applied across manufacturing operations. Students will be able to demonstrate a broad array of technical skills with an emphasis given to quality practices, measurement, maintenance and safety, and scheduling. Students will use Woodworking tools, CNC, carving system, laser engravers, and welding equipment to build projects. Fee: $40 .50 credits, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
Engineering Design
The focus of Engineering Design is the application of the engineering design process. Topics include work-processes, design optimization, and risk management tools. Students will us 2D and 3D modeling software to help them design solutions to solve problems, document their work, and communicate solutions. Additionally, students will interpret industry prints, and create working drawings from functional models. Emphasis is given to experimental problem solving in real systems. Fee: $40 1 credit, Length: Year, Prerequisites: none
Robotics
Students will apply the knowledge and skills necessary to program and operate robotics. Students will learn robotic operations and system configurations. Students will code, compile and debug programs using the robotic program language. Fee: $45 .50 credit, Length: Semester, Prerequisites: None
M.E.T. (Manufacturing Engineering and Technology)
A yearlong elective for students in grades 9-12. Students will explore concepts and practices that underlie careers in these disciplines. Students will get first-hand experience from our business partners such as MPW, THK, Cardinal Health and Covestro. The class features tours of various community businesses, and hands-on learning experiences. Throughout the course students will earn valuable credentials needed in a variety of career fields, putting them ahead of their peers when it comes to life after high school. Possible credentials earned through the course: OSHA 10, FORKLIFT, MANLIFT, CPR/First Aid. Fee: $35 ..50 Credit, Length: 1 Year (T, Th), Prerequisites: None
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