English 1                          (UC.b)
9th grade

10 credits
(5 each semester)

This course is designed to develop and refine the skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening through a study of fiction and nonfiction including drama, short stories, novels, mythology, and poetry.

English 1 Honors                (UC.b)
9th grade

 

10 credits
(5 each semester)

10 credit
(5 each semester)

Designed to meet academic English requirements for high school graduation as well as the entrance requirements for community colleges, the University of California, and the California State University system. Tenth Grade English covers many types of Literature, including short stories, drama, poetry and non-fiction and several novels.  Other areas of emphasis are on vocabulary development, paragraph development and written composition.  

English 2 Honors                (UC.b)
10th grade

 

Grade "C" or better in English 1 Honors ore English 1 or recommendation of English teacher.  Strong reading and writing skills.

Recommended for Academic GATE students.  Selected summer readings will be required before the first day of class.

10 credits
(5 each semester)

This course offers the above-average student an opportunity to sharpen language-art skills.  Major emphasis is palced on literaryanalysis through the study of short stories, poetry, novels, and dramas.  Other areas of concentration include biography, article, and essay.  This course stresses critical reading, thinking, and expository and creative writing.  Special attention is given to vocabulary development, mastery of advanced-grammar principles and essay writing.

 

 

 

English 3                           (UC.b)
11 grade

10 credits
(5 each semester)

English 3 develops the student's ability to write in response to the study of the literature.  This course will integrate reading, writing, listening, and speaking.  Students will examine a variety of genres with an emphasis primarily on American writers.  This study of American literature will include an emphasis on composition and development of critial-thinking skills.

English 3 Honors                (UC.b)

11th grade

 

10 credits
(5 each semester)

Honors is an accelerated English class designed for high achieving college-bound students.  Fiction, nonfiction, drama, poetry are examined through individual analysis and class discussion.  Students will examine a variety of genres, with an emphasis on American writers.  This study of American literature will include an emphasis on composition and development of critical thinking skills and extensive reading and writing assignments. 

 

 

Language and Composition
11th grade/12th grade

 

**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are expected to take the AP test in May.

10 credits
(5 each semester)

An AP course in English Language and Composition engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Both their writing and their reading should make students aware of the interactions among a writer’s purposes, audience expectations, and subjects as well as the way generic conventions and the resources of language contribute to effectiveness in writing. AP Language and Composition is a course, which equals a college course of varied curriculum. The course stresses writing in a variety of forms—narrative, exploratory, expository, and argumentative—and on a variety of subjects from personal experiences to public policies, from imaginative literature to popular culture. The main purpose of the course is to enable student to write effectively and confidently in the college courses across the curriculum and in their professional and personal lives.

 

 

 

 

**Please note there is a summer reading requirement for this course. For more information please contact the school. 

 

 

If this course is taken prior to senior status, it will counst as elective credit only.

10 credits
(5 each semester)

This class is designed to present a muliticultural approach to a survey of the literature written by contemporary American ethnic and women authors.  During the course, students will explore, discuss, and write extensively on the themes, characters, and issues which have shaped our views of life, the law, ethics, education, religion, interpersonal relationships, and socioeconomic/political issues.

Humanities 1 & 2               (UC.b)

 

10 credits
(5 each semester)

This is a survey course of outstanding thought, social change, and accomplishments of people from the ancient time through the Middle Ages.  It includes the art, music, literature, philosophy, religion, law, and social/cultural events which affect modern civilization.  Philosophical issues will be explored.

Young Adult

Perspectives in Literature  

 

10 credits
(5 each semester)

Spanish 1               (UC.e)
9th grade – 12th grade

 

"C" average or better overall or teacher approval

Continuing to second semester is dictated by a passing grade in the first semester or teacher approval.

10 credits
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The student becomes familiar with the five basic aspects of language, listening, speaking, reading, writing, and culture.  The student attains proficiency in each of these skills through oral classroom activities, texbook assignment, visual aids, and oral or written daily homework.  This course requires good study habits; 30 to 60 minutes of homework on a daily basis; good listening skills

Spanish 2               (UC.e)
10th grade – 12th grade

 

"C" average or better in Level 1 of a foreign language or teacher approval

Continuing to second semester is dictated by a passing grade in the first semester or teacher approval.

10 credits
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The second year of a language continues to develop oral and written communicative skills of the language and exposure to world cultures.  There is an increased emphasis on reading and writing.  Most of the grammatical pattern will have been studied by the completion of Level 2.  The use of technonogy may be incorporated throughout the course.  This course requires good study habits; 30-60 minutes of homework on a daily basis, and good listening skills. Students may use technology.

Spanish 3               (UC.e)
10th grade – 12th grade

 

10 credits
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The third year of a language sharpens all skills.  Reading for comprehension and accurate translation and completion of the intricate grammatical patterns are emphasized.  In addition, students are expected to demonstrate oral and written proficiency.  Upon successful completion of this course, the student is able to demostrate familiarity with appropriate literature, history, art, and daily life.  This course requires good study habits; 30-60 minutes of homework on a daily basis and good listening skills.  Students may use technology.

Spanish Language
10th grade – 12th grade

 

Teacher assessment of oral and written language skills.

**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

10 credits
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The specific purpose of the advanced placement language class is to prepare students to pass the advanced placement exam given in the fourth quarter of the school year.  Students are expected to take the exam in order to fulfill the class requirements.  The students are expected to expand and broaden their vocabulary in order to read authentic documents, newspapers, and magazines, as well as native literature, with ease and accuracy.  In addition, an in-depth grammatical review is geared towards writing with near-native accuracy is required.  Writing assignments include essays, critiques, poetry, picture descriptions, movie reviews, letters, etc.  Students are required to demostrate proficiency in understanding and producing the language, listen to and make audio tapes, give oral presentations, etc.  May use technology. 

Latin American Literature
11thgrade – 12th grade

 

Prerequisite
Completion of Advanced Placement Spanish Language or consent of instructor.

**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

10 credits
(5 each semester )
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The Advanced Placement Spanish Literature Program is designed to introduce students to the diverse literature written in Spanish; to help students reflect on the many voices and cultures included in the very rich Hispanic literature; to expose students to a variety of genres, literary periods, literary terms, and geographical areas; to enable students to trace ther history of Spanish prose from and before the twentieth century to modern times through some of its most brilliant authors; and to acquaint studnts with significant work that have become sources for literature and art worldwide.  The program is intended to be the equivalent of a third year college "Introduction to Hispanic Literature" course.  The purpose of the course is to prepare students for the Advanced Placement Spanish Literature test. 

Spanish for Native  (UC.e)Speakers 1
9th grade – 12th grade

Prerequisite

Teacher assessment or oral and written language skills.

Students who have demostrated superior performance in this class may be promoted to AP Spanish with teacher approval.

10 credits 
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The college prep course is designed for students who have had varying degrees of formal as wll as informal exposure to Spanish while growing up.  Students develop and expand their knowledge of the language and their curltural heritage.  Focus is placed in reading and writing while learning about the fundamental grammatical structures of Spanish.  Students read level-appropriate literature and learn to write more effectively.  This course requires good study habits, 30-60 minutes of daily homework and good listening skills.

Spanish for Native  (UC.e)Speakers 2
10th grade – 12th grade

Teacher assessment or oral and written language skills.

Comments

Students who have demostrated superior performance in this class may be promoted to AP Spanish with teacher approval.

10 credits
(5 each semester )
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

This college prep course is designed for students who have had formal exposure to Spanish.  Students develop and expand their knowledge of the language and their cultural heritage.  The Spanish speakers acquire skills that range from learning grammar and spelling to learning how to critically analyze a text and acquire new information in different academic areas.  Focus is placed on reading leavel appropriate literature and writing more effectively.  This class provides students with the necessary skills to succeed in upper level Spanesish courses.  This course requires good study habits, 30-60 minutes of daily homework and good listening skills.

French 1                 (UC.e)
9th grade- 12th grade

 

"B" average or better overall or teacher approval.

Continuing on to the second semester is dictated by a passing grade in the first semester.

10 credits
(5 each semester )
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The student becomes familiar with te five basic aspects of language-listening, speaking, reading, writing, and culture.  The student attains proficiency in each of these skills through oral classroom activities, textbook assignments, visual aids, and oral or written daily homework.   Students will use technology.  Students will learn with videos and complete tests via the intenet.  This course requires good study habits, 30 to 60 minutes of homework on a daily basis and good listening skills.

French 2                  (UC.e)
10th grade- 12th grade

 

"C" average or better in Level 1 of language or teacher approval.

The completion of Level 1 and 2  of a foreign language of a foreign language with a "C" or better and fulfills minimum college entrance requirements.

10 credits
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The second year of a language continues to develop oral and written communicative skills of the language and exposure to world cultures.  There is an increased emphasis on reading and writing.  Most of the grammatical patterns will have been studied by the completion of Level 2.  This course requires good study habits; 30-60 minutes of homework on a daily basis and good listening skills.  Students will use technology.

French 3
10th grade- 12th grade

 

"C" average or better in Level 2 of language or teacher approval.

The third year of a foreign language may be used to satisfy part of the "g" requirement of the University of California

10 credits
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The third year of a language sharpens all skills.  Reading for comprehension and accurate translation and completion of the intricate grammatical patterns are emphasized.  In addition,  students are expected to demostrate oral and written proficiency.  Upon successful completion of this course, the student is able to demostrate familiarity with appropriate literature, history, art, and daily life.  This course requires good study habits; 30-60 minutes of homework on a daily basis and good listening skills.  Students will use technology.

French 4               (UC.e)
11th grade-12th grade

 

"C" average or better in Level 3 of language or teacher approval

The fourth year of a foreign language may be used to satisfy part of the "g" requirement of the University of California

10 credits
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

In the fourth year, students read and discuss authentic literature, give oral reports, and write essays.  The culture of the countries studied is emphasized in the reading process and in written and oral assignments.

 

Teacher assessment of oral and written language

10 credits
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

 The specific purpose of the advanced placement language class is to prepare students to pass the advanced placement exam given in the fourth quarter of the school year.  Students are expected to take the exam in order to fulfill the class requirements.  The students are expected to expand and broaden their vocabulary in order to read authentic documents, newspapers, and magazines, as wll as native literature, with ease and accuracy.  In addition, an in-depth grammatical review is geared towards writing with near-native accuracy is required.  Writing assignments include essays, critiques, poetry, picture descriptions, movie reviews, letters, ect.  Students are required to demonstrate proficiency in understanding and producing the language, listen to and make audio tapes, give oral presentations, etc.

 

Completion of French Language Advanced Placement or teacher approval

10 credits
(5 each semester)
Colleges require two years of a foreign language, and strongly recommend three years.

The Advanced Placement French Literature program is designed to prepare students to understand lectures in French and to participate actively in literary texts in all genres, and to analyze the form and content of literary works, both orally and in writing, using appropriate terminology.  The program is intended to be the equivalent of a third year college "Introduction to French Literature" course, covering selected works from all periods of French literature.  The purpose of the course is to prepare students for the Advanced Placement French Literature Test.

10 credits
(5 each semester)

Students study major turning points that shaped the modern world, from the late 18th century through the present, including the cause and course of the two world wars.  They trace the rise of democratic ideas and develop an understanding of the historical roots of current world issues, especially as they pertain to international relations.  They extrapolate from the American experience that democratic ideals are often achieved at a high price, remain vulnerable and are not practiced everywhere in the world.  Students develop an understanding of current world issues and relate them to their historical, geographic, political, economic, and cultural contexts.  Multiple accounts of events in order to understand international relations from a variety of perspectives will be considered.  This course will require higher-level thinking skills and will integrate language arts and other content areas.  This course concentrates on the utilization of primary sources and critical analysis skills.

World History Honors  (UC.a)
10th grade

 

Teacher approval or GATE identified.

Open to ninth graders in English 1 Honors.

10 credits
(5 each semester)

In this course, students examine major turning points in the shaping of the modern world, from the late eighteenth century to the present.  A multicultural perspective of the study of world history will help students understand how various factors produced similarities and differences in the ways people live throughtout the world.  The year begins with an introduction to current world issues and continues with a focus on the expansion of the West and the growing interdependence of people and cultures throughout the world.  Topics to be covered include the rise of democratic ideas, the Industrial Revolution, Imperialism, the world wars, totalitarianism, and current world issues.  This course content and lessons are in alignment with the national standards on geography.

 

 An honors class is required to be more rigorous than a regular class because the student is earning honors credit. Therefore, honors classes will be required to complete more reading, writing and projects than a regular class. The course expectations will be higher and will include higher-level thinking and critical problem solving.

Advanced Placement World History     (UC.a)
11th grade – 12th grade

Prerequisite:
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

10 credits
(5 each semester)

Advanced Placement World History is offered as an elective course.  This course examines the history of human expereinces from a global perspective.  The primary focus will be on the period from the rise of ancient civilizations, through the time of large-scale empire, to the early modern era of worldwide trade and gunpowder empires.  At the conclusion of the course, all students may take the Advanced Placement Exams.  Students who do well on the Advanced Placement examination may receive college credit. 
**Please note there is a summer reading requirement for this course. For more information please contact the school. 

United States History AB

10 Annual
5 each semester required

This course provides a study of United States history in conjunction with political and governmental development. Reviews the colonial period, constitution, founding of the nation and highlights the Civil War. Focuses on industrial development and economic growth of the nation and changing mores of the twentieth century.

United States History AB Honors

10 Annual
5 each semester required

This course provides a study of United States history in conjunction with political and governmental development. Reviews the colonial period, constitution, founding of the nation and highlights the Civil War. Focuses on industrial development and economic growth of the nation and changing mores of the twentieth century. An honors class is required to be more rigorous than a regular class because the student is earning honors credit. Therefore, honors classes will be required to complete more reading, writing and projects than a regular class. The course expectations will be higher and will include higher-level thinking and critical problem solving.
**Please note there is a summer reading requirement for this course. For more information please contact the school. 

Advanced Placement United States History AB
11th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite:
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

10 Annual
5 each semester required

College level course. May be accepted by certain colleges for course credit. The major emphasis of this course is upon providing an intensive study of the political, economic, social, intellectual, diplomatic and cultural development of the United States.  **Please note there is a summer reading requirement for this course. For more information please contact the school. 

Principles of American Democracy (Government)
12th grade

5 credits
Required

Provides, at a mature level, a study of the purpose, structure and function of the United States government and of state and local governments.

Advanced Placement American Government and Politics
12th grade
Prerequisite:
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

10 Annual
5 each semester required

College level course. May be accepted by certain colleges for course credit. The major emphasis of this course is an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. The course involves both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific case studies. 
**Please note there is a summer reading requirement for this course. For more information please contact the school. 

Economics
12th grade

5 credits
Required

This course will teach the fundamental economic concepts, how these concepts relate to each other, and an understanding of economic systems.

Advanced Placement Psychology
12th grade
Prerequisite:
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

10 Annual
5 each semester elective credit

College level course. May be accepted by certain colleges for course credit. The major emphasis of this course is an introduction to the science of psychology. Includes study of personality, intelligence, and learning theories and techniques.  

10 Annual Required

This is the first course of the 3-year college preparatory sequence in Mathematics. The focus of the course is algebra. The course will teach the standard algebra course while also building basic arithmetic skills and problem solving.

Geometry AB
9th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: "C" or better in Algebra 1 AB

10 Annual Required

This is the second course of the 3-year college preparatory sequence in Mathematics. This course addresses content of the geometry standards and prepares students to take college prep courses.

Algebra 2 AB
11th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: "C" or better in Geometry AB

10 Annual Elective

This is the third course of the 3-year college preparatory sequence in Mathematics. The focus of the course is advanced algebra. Other topics to be included are data analysis, statistics, probability, geometry, trigonometry and discrete mathematics.

Math Analysis
11th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: "C" or better in Algebra 2 AB

10 Annual Elective

Math Analysis develops the pre-calculus concepts of limits and derivatives as well as polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions along with their properties and graphs. The course fulfills one unit of the UC and CSU admissions requirement in mathematics.

Advanced Placement Calculus
11th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: "C" or better in Math Analysis AB
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

 

10 Annual Elective

This course is intended for students who have a thorough knowledge of college preparatory mathematics, including algebra, axiomatic geometry, trigonometry, and analytic geometry. The course fulfills one unit of the UC and CSU admissions requirement in mathematics.

Advanced Placement Statistics
11th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: "C" or better in Math Analysis AB
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

 

10 Annual Elective

This is a one –year course in college level statistics. The course offers an examination in statistics to students, who whish to complete studies in secondary school equivalent to a one-semester, introductory, non-calculus based, college course in statistics. The course fulfills one unit of the UC and CSU admissions requirement in mathematics.

Advanced Applied Math

 

Course Description to follow:

Adapted Physical Education
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

A physician recommends a student with temporary or permanent physical disability for this class. This class offers the opportunity to develop physical fitness and participation in activities designed to be within the limits of his/her ability. It meets the 9th and 10th grade P.E. requirement.

Physical Education
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

Areas of instruction in 9th –12th grade classes are basic movement skills, beginning individual sports, team sports, intermediate sports and physical fitness activities. (Physical education is a required course in the 9th and 10th grades and elective in the 11th and 12th grades.)

Dance
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

Provides opportunity for students to learn basic skills, basic steps, and different combinations of steps and patterns to a variety of dances. Develops appreciation of the cultural background and recreational value of dance. (Fulfills the physical education requirement that is required in the 9th and 10th grades and elective in the 11th and 12th grades.) **Dance is a part of the Performing Arts Academy.

Color Guard
9th grade – 12th grade
Audition and/or teacher approval

10 Annual Elective

This course is designed to provide a spirit of competition and cooperation, to teach student how to follow other and to encourage scholarship. Students will participate in half-time activities, parades and other school and community functions. Emphasis is placed on learning advanced dance and parade routine techniques. Physical fitness activities are included in the course. Physical education credit or cross credit: Visual/Performing Arts.

Marching Band
9th grade – 12th grade
Audition and/or teacher approval

10 Annual Elective

This physical education course is for band and drill team members for the school year. Training in competitive marching, working with a group, and learning to lead and follow others for parades, band reviews, half-time shows, and other school and comity functions is stressed. Physical fitness activities are included in the course. Physical education credit or cross credit: Visual/Performing Arts.

Interscholastic/Team Sports:
9th grade – 12th grade
Coach approval
For Boys:
Baseball, Basketball, Cross Country, Football, Golf, Soccer, Swimming, Track and Field, Volleyball, and Wrestling.
For Girls:
Basketball, Cheerleading, Cross Country, Golf, Soccer, Softball, Swimming, Track and Field, Volleyball, and Wrestling.

10 Annual Elective

Develops and refines the skills of the specific sport. Provides instruction in basic skills, equipment safety, and rules. Includes advanced skills, techniques, athletic training and conditioning for competition in individual or team sports.

***Students must maintain a "C" average in order to participate in interscholastic sports. 

10 Annual

This academic course provides students with an introduction to earth science, physics, chemistry, and biology. This comprehensive view will give the student an understanding of the concepts and principles of science and opportunities to develop laboratory, problem solving and technological skills necessary to compete successfully in the 21st century. The laboratory course will devote at least 40 percent of the class time to student-centered laboratory activities, and in small group activities related to team projects and research.

Biology AB
9thgrade, 10th grade, 11th grade
Requirement:

10 Annual Required

The major topics in this course will include science methods, biochemistry, enzymes, cells, photosynthesis/respiration, ecology, genetics, DNA and protein synthesis, and biotechnology, evolution, immune response and comparative anatomy. Laboratory experience is emphasized with continued development of critical thinking skills and analysis of data collection.

Biology AB Honors
9thgrade, 10th grade, 11th grade
Requirement:

10 Annual

The major topics in this course will include science methods, biochemistry, enzymes, cells, photosynthesis/respiration, ecology, genetics, DNA and protein synthesis, and biotechnology, evolution, immune response and comparative anatomy. Laboratory experience is emphasized with continued development of critical thinking skills and analysis of data collection and increased mathematical skills.

Advanced Placement Biology
10th grade, 11th grade, 12th grade Requirement:
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

 

10 Annual Elective

This course will provide students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology. The major topics include molecules and cells genetics and evolution, and organisms and populations. Laboratory experiences and selected investigations encourage higher order thinking skills, formulation of hypotheses, and the generation of new ideas.

Agricultural Biology AB
9th grade or 10th grade
Requirement:

10 Annual (required for Magnet students) elective for all others

A laboratory science course, designed for the college-bound student with career interests in agriculture and environmental studies. Using agriculture and the environment as the learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles, central concepts and inter-relationships among the following topics: the molecular and cellular aspects of life, the chemical and structural bias of life, energetic of life, growth and reproduction in plants and animals, evolution of modern plants and domestic livestock species, plant and animal genetics, taxonomy of modern agricultural plants and animals just to name a few.

Chemistry AB
10th grade- 12th grade
Prerequisite: Biology AB

 

10 Annual Required

This course studies chemical reactions and the factors that influence their behavior. Special attention will be paid to balancing chemical reactions, chemical equilibrium, potential and kinetic energy interrelationships and bonding patterns.

Chemistry Honors
10th grade- 12th grade
Prerequisite: Biology AB

 

10 Annual Elective

This course studies chemical reactions and the factors that influence their behavior. Special attention will be paid to balancing chemical reactions, chemical equilibrium, potential and kinetic energy interrelationships and bonding patterns. These areas will be studied to a greater depth than in the basic Chemistry course.

Advanced Placement Chemistry
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

 

10 Annual Elective

The advanced placement chemistry course is designed to be the equivalent of the general chemistry course usually taken during the first college year. For some students this course enables them to undertake, as freshmen, second-year work in the chemistry sequence at their institution or to register in courses in other fields where general chemistry is a prerequisite. For other students, the AP Chemistry course fulfills the laboratory science requirement.

Anatomy and Physiology
11th grade- 12th grade

 

10 Annual Elective

Emphasizes laboratory experimentation, methods of science, and skills used in critical thinking. Covers structural organization of the human body, cellular physiology, integration of the skeletal system, the circulatory system, and the respiratory system. Includes study of nutrition, the excretory system, the control mechanisms of the body, and reproduction.

Environmental Science Advanced Placement
11th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: Chemistry

**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

10 Annual Elective

This course is designed to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. Identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and man-made. Evaluate risks and examine alternative solutions for resolving and or preventing problems.

Physics
11th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

This course is the study of physical phenomenon. The course will concentrate on both the mathematic applications in physics as well as the conceptual applications. The main topics studied over the year will include: motion in one and two dimensions, gravity, forces, vectors, planetary motion, momentum, energy, fluid motion, electrostatics, electricity, magnetism, waves, the Theory of Relativity, light, sound, and physics in everyday life. The course meets the physical science requirement.

Advanced Placement Physics
11th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite:
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to take the AP test in May.

10 Annual Elective

This course gives students who have a strong background in math and science an opportunity to explore the logic and philosophy of modern physical theory. It includes application of algebra, geometry and trigonometry to the fields of kinetic theory, classical mechanics,
waves, electricity and magnetism, atomic and nuclear structure.

10 Annual Elective

The objective of this course is for students to learn how to use computer technology to communicate with words and images. The curriculum emphasizes the use of word processing, visual communication and multimedia design applications. At the end of the course, students will have a portfolio of their work and will gain contemporary job skills.

Introduction to Art
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

Exploratory laboratory experience in the fundamentals of art including drawing, painting, two-and three-dimensional design, and art appreciation.

Ceramics AB
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

Offers exploratory experience in creative ceramic design. Provides opportunities to construct a wide range of hand-built and wheel-thrown forms.

Drawing and Painting AB
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

Stresses basic drawing and painting techniques. Develops skills of personal observation and interpretation of a wide range of subject matter. Explores media, color, and organization of forms as related to still life, landscape, the human figure, and non-objective themes.

Advanced Placement Studio Art
11th grade – 12th grade
**Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable.
Students are required to submit a portfolio for the AP test in May.

 

10 Annual Elective

The major emphasis of this course is to provide an intensive examination of the process and content of drawing. Emphasis is placed on the quality, concentration, and breadth of the student’s production and experiences in drawing. The course is planned for the highly motivated student interested in the serious study of art and may be accepted for college credit if the student qualifies on the Advanced Placement examination.

Woodshop
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

Emphasis in this class is centered on construction projects of the individual students and will build upon skills previously acquired. Lab fee for materials that students keep.

Chorus
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

This class is composed of boys and /or girls who have a desire to sing. Music for mixed voices will be performed. Music reading and how to use the voice will be taught.

Color Guard
9th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite:
Audition and/or teacher approval

5 Each Semester Elective

This course is designed to provide a spirit of competition and cooperation, to teach students how to follow others, and to encourage scholarship. Students will participate in activities, competitions, and other school and community functions. Emphasis is placed on learning advanced dance and synchronized routine techniques.

Marching Band
9th grade – 12th grade
Audition and/or teacher approval

10 Annual Elective

This physical education course is for band and drill team members for the school year. Training in competitive marching, working with a group, and learning to lead and follow others for parades, band reviews, half-time shows, and other school and comity functions is stressed. Physical fitness activities are included in the course. Physical education credit or cross credit: Visual/Performing Arts.

Concert Band
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

Concert Band is an intermediate level instrumental music ensemble that requires students to perform on their instruments with a high degree of skill. The students will perform as an ensemble in public concerts, music festivals, and solo and ensemble festivals.

Beginning Instruments
9th grade – 12th grade

10 Annual Elective

This class is for any student who wishes to learn to play a band instrument.

Jazz Ensemble
9th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisites:
Ability to play an instrument used in a standard Jazz Ensemble. (Saxophone, trumpet, trombone, guitar, piano, bass, drums and percussion.)

5 Each Semester Elective

Jazz is designed for the instrumental music student to become more aware of the American music art form known as jazz. This course gives the student an opportunity to explore the elements that make up this style of music (improvisation, articulation, concepts, ensemble playing and rhythmic interpretation.)

Drama AB
9th grade – 12th grade

5 Each Semester Elective

Confidence will be developed through various drama exercises. Students will learn voice techniques, which will help them as a student, actor, and professional. Students will analyze, perform, and write scenes for theater and film.

Play Production
9th grade – 12th grade

5 Each Semester Elective

Students will learn everything taught in the beginning class of drama, except it will be based on producing a play. Students will also learn how to analyze scripts to design straight and character make-up and to design costumes. Designing publicity promotion posters for the play will be taught also.

Technical Arts/Stage Crew
9th grade – 12th grade

5 Each Semester Elective

Students will learn how to analyze scripts in order to create sets, sound and lighting designs for Play Production. The class will have hands-on experience in building sets, designing and setting lighting and sound. In addition, students, through teamwork will run sound, and lights for assemblies, meetings and dances.

10 Annual Elective

AVID provides students with academic survival skills including time management, note taking, and textbook reading and study skill workshops. College-age tutors also assist students by reinforcing study habits and reviewing key concepts from other content areas. The course is designed to prepare students for rigorous coursework and college acceptance.

Life Skills
9th grade

Required 5 Semester

The course is designed to acquaint students with the world of high school, college, career and real world situations. Students have the opportunity to assess their abilities, aptitudes and career interests. The course is infused with AVID skills and techniques to help students succeed in high school and college.

Health
9th grade

Required 5 Semester

The emphasis of this course is to develop concepts, attitudes and skills that will lead to effective decisions on physical, emotional, mental and social health issues. The course covers information on: nutrition, fitness, and effects of drugs, human reproduction, sexually transmitted diseases and mental health.

Academic Decathlon
10th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: Teacher/Counselor recommendation encouraged

10 Annual Elective

The course provides the opportunity for students to do in-depth research and preparation in the many challenging areas of the Academic Decathlon. A ten subject competition in speech, interview, economics, math, history, science, essay, fine arts, literature and one specific topic assigned each year.

Journalism
9th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: Teacher/Counselor recommendation encouraged

10 Annual Elective

Students learn the skills and techniques of gathering, writing and editing specialized stories, such as features, columns, editorial, and sports. The main goal is to produce the Hunter’s Call Newspaper for the school.

Yearbook
9th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: Teacher/Counselor recommendation encouraged

10 Annual Elective

This class produces the school yearbook. Emphasis is given to yearbook design, layout, copy preparation, and Photoshop.

Leadership/Student Government
9th grade – 12th grade

5 Semester Elective

The class plans, implements and directs school-wide activities and oversees the utilization of student body funds. Principals of leadership and managerial organization are stressed.

Library Practice
9th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: Teacher/Counselor recommendation encouraged

5 Semester Elective

Library skills, procedures and techniques are learned in this class by actively participating in all aspects of library work. Good attendance and citizenship are essential for enrollment. 

Teacher Assistant
9th grade – 12th grade
Prerequisite: Teacher/Counselor recommendation encouraged

5 Semester Elective

Students learn how to work for a supervisor, similar to an employer-employee relationship. Students will receive additional exposure to the skills of the subject area.

ROTC

5 Semester Elective

AFJROTC stands for Air Force Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. Our mission is to build better citizens for America. Our goals are to instill in high school cadets: Values of Citizenship; Service to the United States; Personal responsibility; and a sense of accomplishment.

9th Grade Elective
Speech/Chicano Studies

5 Semester Elective

Mexican American Studies is designed to give students a historical perspective of Mexico’s history from Alaskan land bridge migrants to contemporary Mexico. The use of Cornell note taking is taught and emphasized throughout the curriculum.

Introduction to Computers

5 Semester Elective

This is an introductory course in which students will learn the basics of personal computing to achieve success in learning, communication, and life skills.

Internet Publishing

10 Annual Elective

The technology foundation standards provide guidelines for technology-based activities in which students create content for the school webpage. Digital Photography and Adobe Photoshop are introduced.

Advanced Information Processing

5 Semester Elective

The technology foundation standards provide guidelines for technology-based activities in which students achieve success in learning, communication, and life skills using Microsoft Office Suite to create advanced projects.