Title

Grade Range

Description

Introduction to Agriculture A

Grades 6-12

Ms. Necia

This course will introduce the basic concepts of agriculture, food and natural resources.  This year-long class includes the study of a wide range of agriculture areas and careers. Second semester is heavily focused on greenhouse work including but not limited to germinating plants, floral arrangement, etc. Basic areas of study include careers in agriculture, FFA, Plant Science, Animal Science, Agriculture Business and Agriculture Mechanics. Students will be given the opportunity to participate in hands-on learning as it relates to skills used in agriculture.

Introduction to Woods Manufacturing and Advanced Woods Manufacturing

Grade Levels: 9-12

Counts toward CTE Course of Study

(Maximum 10 students)

Mr. Henson

2 period class: Periods 7 and 8.

Course Title: Woods Manufacturing and Construction

Course Description:

The Woods Manufacturing and Construction class is designed to provide high school students with a hands-on and comprehensive understanding of woodworking, carpentry, and construction principles. This course emphasizes practical skills, safety protocols, and creative problem-solving in the context of wood-based projects. Students will explore various aspects of woodworking, from basic hand tools to advanced machinery, and gain practical experience in constructing functional items and structures.

Course Objectives:

1. Safety First: Prioritize safety by teaching students the proper usage of tools and equipment, as well as instilling a strong awareness of safety protocols in the workshop environment.

2. Tool Proficiency: Develop students' proficiency in a wide range of woodworking tools, including hand tools, power tools, and specialized machinery commonly used in the industry.

3. Material Selection and Preparation: Instruct students on the selection and preparation of wood materials, covering topics such as wood characteristics, sustainability, and the importance of proper material handling.

4. Blueprint Reading and Design: Introduce students to reading blueprints and technical drawings, and guide them in the process of creating their own designs for woodworking and construction projects.

5. Joinery Techniques: Explore various joinery techniques, such as dovetail joints, mortise and tenon joints, and biscuit joints, to enhance the structural integrity and aesthetics of their projects.

6. Project-based Learning: Engage students in hands-on, project-based learning experiences, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical scenarios. Projects may include building furniture, constructing small structures, or collaborating on larger construction projects.

7. Problem-Solving Skills: Foster critical thinking and creative problem-solving skills by challenging students with real-world construction and woodworking challenges. Encourage teamwork and effective communication in solving these challenges.

8. Industry Exposure: Provide opportunities for guest speakers, field trips, or partnerships with local woodworking and construction businesses to expose students to real-world applications of their skills and potential career paths in the industry.

9. Ethical and Sustainable Practices: Emphasize the importance of ethical and sustainable practices in woodworking and construction, promoting awareness of environmental impact and responsible resource management.

10. Portfolio Development: Guide students in creating a portfolio showcasing their completed projects, skills acquired, and the evolution of their craftsmanship throughout the course.

This Woods Manufacturing and Construction class aims to empower students with the practical skills and knowledge necessary for success in woodworking, carpentry, and construction-related fields, whether pursuing further education or entering the workforce directly after high school.

Introduction to Movement in Theatre

Grades 6-12

Ms. Henson

The course will be physical in nature as we study the basics of dance and stage combat. This is an entry-level course and requires no prior experience. You will be asked to dress for physical activity, including appropriate shoes for dancing. You will be utilizing prop weapons and practicing basic elements of stage combat with partners. The course can be taken for either elective or PE credit. There will be a dance and combat choreography project in order to earn the credit for PE. (Old GS Gym & Stage)

Media Studies Publication

Grades 8-12

Mr. Wells

In media studies we learn how to design and produce a yearbook. This involves taking pictures, editing in iPhoto, using the website to layout a page, and write headlines and captions.

Middle School Leadership/Middle School Study Hall

Grades 6-8

Mrs. Howell

Required for student council representatives. Optional for others.

In this course, the Middle School Student Council will meet in order to complete  the operations of the student council. All Student Council Officers are required to  take this course, but all students who are interested in being part of the decisions,  vision, events, and planning for the middle school are encouraged to join. We have  official meetings every week, and we also spend class time and nonschool days doing community  service. In this course, you will learn about being a leader, organization, fundraising, community service, and event planning. Students work as a team to  create a positive community where everyone can engage, have fun, and make  lasting memories.

Middle School School Skills Development

Grades 6-8

By invitation

Mr. Unti

During this class there will be a study hall offered where students who need extra help and are behind in classes can get extra help they need to get caught up and keep up with their work.

Sports Skills/Strengthening (Weight training)

Grades 7-12

(6th with

application and approval)

Mrs. Carter

A course designed to provide students with the opportunity to improve their basic physical condition, secure useful neuromuscular development, and gain

recreational skills. Routine weight training. We will teach safe lifting techniques and will record progress throughout the semester, with accessory work and muscle conditioning.  During sports seasons, we will be improving our conditioning skills with specific drills  related to traditional Fall and Winter sports. We will conduct weight training and participate in circuits.

Piano

Grades 6-12

(Limited to number of school keyboards)

Mrs. Wills

In Beginning Piano, students will learn how to read music in treble and bass clefs and basic performance technique. This will involve some written work, flash cards, playing exercises (such as scales), and playing songs. Other activities will be added at the teacher's discretion. Playing in recitals outside of school hours will be required (one or two each semester). Students will be required to treat all equipment and materials with respect. As time allows, students will also learn about music history and famous composers from the classical period.

River Works

Grades 6-10 (11-12 with

application and approval)

Mr. Hansen

Oregon is home to some of the most famous rivers in the world. The Deschutes, John Day, McKenzie, Umpqua, Willamette, Rogue, and mighty Columbia rivers are just a short drive away, or in our backyard! These rivers support countless communities through a variety of industries. Learn about fish, bugs, water, rocks, and explore possible occupations in fishing, rafting, ODFW, fisheries, biology, and hydrology!  

WR121 — Dual Credit

*one semester

Grades 11-12

*Prerequisite: B+ average or better in prior English Language Arts classes and teacher recommendation

Ms. Knight

High School Description: This semester-long course is intended for college-bound students and those who wish to challenge their thinking and writing skills. Students in this class are responsible for completing college-level work, of which 10-12 assignments are graded for their college credit, and additional daily assignments that are also part of the high school grades—including brainstorming, outlining, rough drafts, giving peer feedback, research, reading text, completing notes, discussion, and so forth. Homework is required. Students who earn a C or better on both the high school-grade and the CGCC college grade can proceed to WR122 during the second semester.

Organization and excellent attendance are exceptionally important. Proactive communication with the instructor is expected (concerns and challenges are made clear) in person and via school Gmail. Penalties for late work submitted will be applied, with up to a 50% deduction. AI-based writing will not be accepted and will be considered cheating.

Columbia Gorge Community College Course Description (in brief):

Writing 121 is a four credit college course intended to develop skills, primarily in informative writing. Essays must be supported with peer reviewed and academic sources. Students are expected to develop and become more independent in the following areas:

—analytical reading (actively and critically read a number of published exemplar essays; identify authorial choices; use literary and rhetorical devices; review peer-created work);

—critical thinking (question what we read and examine our responses; understand complexities of chosen topics and research in resources; conference with the instructor and carry out an evaluative discussion for each essay with a final draft, usually outside of class);

—writing for academic and professional audiences (personal/reflective,  definition, persuasive editorial or essay, analytical or argumentative essay; *these modes are subject to change prior to the start of class in the fall of 2024)

Students will compose and revise several essays using a variety of strategies to present evidence in support of a thesis. Students will accurately and effectively incorporate source material and documentation (in-text citations and Works Cited). Source analysis and documentation are incorporated in at least three essays.

Grading for the college credit course is based on ten to twelve graded assignments (four final drafts of essays and six to eight assignments related to the essays). Penalties for late work submitted will be applied, with up to a 50% deduction. Only one final draft of an essay is allowed, without penalty, and a final "late" deadline set that must be met. No other final drafts will be accepted or graded once this option has been granted.

Independent Online Learning

Grades 6-12

Ms. Rethwill

Intended for students in grades 8-12 seeking initial credit, credit recovery, or additional study time for college-level courses. Utilizing Edmentum, a comprehensive online learning platform, this class offers a flexible and self-paced approach to education.

• High school students who are credit deficient will be given priority enrollment.
• Students must be self-motivated and capable of managing their learning.
• This course requires students to take responsibility for their progress and deadlines.

Effective time management and organizational skills are essential. Students should be able to prioritize tasks, set goals, and track their progress independently. While independence is key, students will have access to guidance and support from the course facilitator. Regular check-ins and progress monitoring ensure students stay on track and achieve their academic goals

Advanced Performance Theater- Directing

Grade 7-12 (6th grade students must have special permission)

Prerequisite coursework: Introduction to Theatre, Drama I/II, or experience in a production. If you are unsure if your experience qualifies, please email Ms. Henson: meganh@swasco.net

Enrollment cap: 20

Ms. Henson

Advanced Performance Theatre is for any student interested in being in the fall production. You must take this course if you would like to be in the fall production. This semester's focus will be on directing, and two students will be selected to direct one-act plays in December and January. Our fall production will be in November, and students will be required to perform a monologue in September for the Fall Showcase. Students auditioning for performances will be required to sign a contract and attend after-school rehearsals as well as all production dates. Lead roles for the fall production may be cast during the summer, and all students registered for the course will be notified via phone. (Old GS Gym & Stage)

Priority for enrollment will be given to experienced thespians.

Agriculture in Wasco County: Career survey

Grades 7-12

Prerequisite Intro to Agriculture required

Mrs. Carter

This class will bring in local farmers and ranchers to talk about and share activities related to their own practices in agriculture. Students will learn about crop rotation, dry farming vs. irrigation, range land practices for livestock, and other related topics . Mrs. Carter will facilitate, but much of the class will be taught through conversations with local agriculture leaders and practitioners.

Computer Aided Design

7-12

Teacher permission required for 7-8 grades

(possible certifications)

Counts toward CTE Course of Study for 9-12

Mr. Sowell

In this course, the student will learn about computer aided design. Students will  collaborate, communicate, critically think and create via project based learning. Do  you want to be a Meme Master? Initially we will look at Photoshop to see how  modeling in 2-D works. Students will take their knowledge of toolbars and  photoshop to explore Adobe Premiere and video editing. Later students will  explore laser cutting and engraving using LightBurn. Lastly we will use SolidWorks  to create 3-D models. Then with the laser cutter/engraver and 3-D printer they will  have something physical to show off to their family and peers.

Cooking and Cultures

Grades 6-12

No prerequisites

*Maximum 10 students

Ms. Knight

This course is meant to study a select number of cultures and investigate the development of the culture in terms of historical events, social developments, and the cuisines that have developed due to geography, climate, outside influences, etc. For each culture studied, at least one food item will be researched, recipes consulted, ingredients purchased, and the food prepared for all to share. In terms of cooking, students would need to earn their food handler's card* by learning required content and taking the test ($10), with class time provided, before participating in any food preparation (the instructor needs to do more research on this!). One or two planned field trips to a restaurant in The Dalles, Hood River, Madras, Redmond, or Bend to enjoy a meal is also a possibility. A guest speaker or cook is also an option to meet with, discuss, and share cooking techniques.

Note: Some activities and the number of food items prepared will depend on fundraising completed by the instructor over the summer!

MakerSpace Arts

Grades 9-12

Ms. Malefyt 

This course will focus on arts and crafts that can be produced in multiples for sale.  Have you wanted to start a business making products to sell?  If you would like to explore making and selling handmade items, this class might be for you!

High School Skills Development

Grades 9-12

By invitation

Mr. Unti

Students are provided small class support to complete assignments from regular classes. This course provides both the extra time and direct support to succeed in other classes during the day. Particular focus is placed on graduation required core classes (Pass/Fail).

Introduction to Woods Manufacturing and Advanced Woods Manufacturing continued from 7th period

Grade Levels: 9-12

Intro to Manufacturing or teacher permission required

Counts toward CTE Program of Study

Mr. Henson

2 period class: 7 and 8. See above for description

Music Foundations A

Grades 6-10 (11–12 with teacher permission)

Mr. Hansen

Have you ever wanted to write a song or play in a band? Music Foundations is the class for you! This class is open to students 6th through 10th grade. We will learn the basics of reading, writing, and playing music using ukuleles, guitars, percussion and voice. Large and small group performances will take place throughout the year. No experience required.

Reading Intervention Support

Grades 6-8

By invitation

Ms. Jackson

Targeted support for improving reading skill. Focus on phonemic awareness, phonics, fluency, vocabulary, and comprehension.

Middle School STEM

6-8

Mrs. Howell

STEM in middle school gives you opportunities to dive deeper into STEM subjects and explore more challenging concepts. You will  be introduced to complex engineering, robotics, prototyping, intermediate mathematics, computer science, and more.

Night at the Museum:

Ancient World History

6-12

Mr. Wells

This class looks at ancient history and uses projects to enhance learning.  This term we will study the history of early people and the near East.

SAT Prep

9-12

Mrs. Wills

We will prepare for the SAT by taking practice tests, learning test-taking techniques, and reviewing SAT content.  SAT testing will be offered at South Wasco in December, March, and June, and sophomores will take the PSAT in or around October.

Independent Online Learning

Grades 10-12

Ms. Rethwill

Intended for students in grades 8-12 seeking initial credit, credit recovery, or additional study time for college-level courses. Utilizing Edmentum, a comprehensive online learning platform, this class offers a flexible and self-paced approach to education.

• High school students who are credit deficient will be given priority enrollment.
• Students must be self-motivated and capable of managing their learning.
• This course requires students to take responsibility for their progress and deadlines.

Effective time management and organizational skills are essential. Students should be able to prioritize tasks, set goals, and track their progress independently. While independence is key, students will have access to guidance and support from the course facilitator. Regular check-ins and progress monitoring ensure students stay on track and achieve their academic goals