High School Course Catalog

& Academic Planning Guide

2020 - 2021

Table of Contents

Graduation Requirements

Future Ready Core Course of Study (FRC) - For Students Entering Grade 9 Between 2014-15 and 2019-20

Future Ready Core Course of Study (FRC) - For Students entering Grade 9 in 2020-2021 and beyond

Future Ready Occupational Course of Study (OCS) Requirements - For Students Entering 9th Grade between 2015-16 and 2019-20

Future Ready Occupational Course of Study (OCS) Requirements - For Students Entering 9th Grade in 2020-21 and beyond

DPI Graduation Requirements

Accessing & Reviewing Your High School Transcript

HS Typical Course Progression Guide

Course Descriptions

ENGLISH - CORE COURSES

MATHEMATICS - CORE COURSES

SCIENCE - CORE COURSES

SOCIAL STUDIES - CORE COURSES

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

WORLD LANGUAGES

ADVANCED PLACEMENT

CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) ELECTIVES

GENERAL ELECTIVES - 1/2 credit courses

GENERAL ELECTIVES - full credit courses

Graduation Requirements

Future Ready Core Course of Study (FRC) - For Students Entering Grade 9 Between 2014-15 and 2019-20

Future Ready Core Course of Study (FRC) - For Students entering Grade 9 in 2020-2021 and beyond

Future Ready Occupational Course of Study (OCS) Requirements - For Students Entering 9th Grade between 2015-16 and 2019-20

Future Ready Occupational Course of Study (OCS) Requirements - For Students Entering 9th Grade in 2020-21 and beyond

NCCA uses a standard whereby one credit equals approximately 160 hours of instruction (sometimes referred to as Carnegie Units). Students are required to be enrolled in a minimum of two courses per semester in order to be considered full-time students.

DPI Graduation Requirements  

Additional specifics and information regarding graduation requirements can be found on the North Carolina Department of Public Instruction Website at: https://www.dpi.nc.gov/districts-schools/high-school-graduation-requirements#occupational-course-of-study-(22-credits)

Accessing & Reviewing Your High School Transcript

PowerStudent (PowerSchool), Mastery Connect, and iStation all should be accessed by NCCA students through their Clever Portal.

Directions for how to access the various systems can be found at: bit.ly/nccaaccessdirections

HS Typical Course Progression Guide

Course Descriptions

ENGLISH - CORE COURSES

English I

In this freshman course, students read, write, analyze and respond to a variety of literature genres. Critical thinking, research, grammar, and language skills are also important components of English I. Specific Units of Study include: Mythology; The Epic Hero's Quest; Individuality and Conformity; Nature and the Environment; Love, Tragedy, and Drama: An Introduction to Shakespeare; Caring and Making a Difference, Mystery and Suspense; Fighting for Equality and Unity.

English II

Focused on application, in this sophomore English course Students read, analyze, and respond to world literature. Writing, critical thinking, research, grammar, and language skills are also important components of English II. Specific Units of Study include: Stories from around the World; Sugar Changed the World; The Power of Humor; The Art of Argument; The Human Experience; The Tragedy of Julius Caesar; Globalization and the Future.

English III

This junior-year English course invites students to read, analyze, and respond to American literature. Writing, critical thinking, grammar, and language skills are emphasized. The research paper component of the Graduation Project is completed during English III. Specific Units of Study include: American Roots: From Native Traditions to the American Revolution, Bright Romanticism: American Individualism, Dark Romanticism: American Gothic; A Nation Dividing and Expanding; Make it New!: Early Modernism; The Roaring Twenties; Modernism, and Postwar Outlooks; I, too, Am America; The Harlem Renaissance and Cultural Rebellion; Heritage and Multicultural American Identities; Globalization and the Information Age: Postmodernism into the Twenty-First Century.

English IV

This senior-level English course offers fascinating insight into British literature. Writing, critical thinking, grammar, and language skills are emphasized. The product, presentation, and portfolio components of the Graduation project are completed during English IV. Specific Units of Study include: Epic Beginnings; From the Middle Ages through the Renaissance; The Tragedy of Hamlet; The Enlightenment, Romanticism and Nineteenth Century Literature in England; The First Half of the Twentieth Century; Cultural Reflections in Art; Artifacts and Contemporary Voices; Informational Texts.

MATHEMATICS - CORE COURSES

Foundations of NC Math 1

In this course, students will be provided learning experiences that lead to establishing solid skills in the study of NC Math 1. Skills such as: solving equations, factoring expressions, evaluating expressions, writing and graphing equations of lines will be taught. Students will broaden their use of the coordinate plane as they learn to graph lines with, as well as, without the graphing calculator. Topics in statistics will also be introduced. Specific Units of study include: Representing Relationships; Linear Functions; Linear Equations and Inequalities; Solving Linear Systems; Scatterplots; Transformations, Parallel Lines, and Perpendicular Lines; Quadratic and Exponential Functions; Data Distributions and Analysis; Pythagorean Theorem; Two- and Three- Dimensional Geometry.

Foundations of NC Math 2

Foundations of Math 2 provides learners with an opportunity to review and study foundational topics for higher-level mathematics. The topics covered will be based on student needs and will be aligned with NC Math 2. Students will solve relevant and authentic problems using manipulatives and appropriate technology. Specific Units of study include: Equations and Systems; Geometric Transformations; Triangles and Circles; Triangle Congruence and Similarity; Right Triangle Relationships and Trigonometry; Polynomial Operations; Factoring Polynomials and Completing the Square; Polynomials and Rational Expressions; Radicals; Nonlinear Functions and Probability.

Foundations of NC Math 3

Foundations of Math 3 provides learners with an opportunity to review and study foundational topics for higher-level mathematics. The topics covered will be based on student needs and will be aligned with NC Math 3. Students will solve relevant and authentic problems using manipulatives and appropriate technology. Specific Units of study include: Quadratics and Complex Numbers; Introduction to Geometry; Triangle Similarity; Polynomials and Rational Functions; Exponential and Logarithmic Functions; Sequences and Analyzing Data; Statistics and Probability; Circles; Trigonometric Functions; Mathematical Modeling.

NC Math 1

This course provides students the opportunity to study concepts of algebra, geometry, functions, number and operations, statistics and modeling throughout the course. These concepts include expressions in the real number system, creating and reasoning with equations and inequalities, interpreting and building simple functions, expressing geometric properties and interpreting categorical and quantitative data. Specific Units of Study include: Representing Relationships; Linear Equations and Inequalities; Systems of Equations and Inequalities; Exponential Functions; Polynomial Expressions; Modeling with Quadratic Functions; Solving Quadratic Equations and Linear-Quadratic Systems; Comparing Functions and Geometric Properties; Descriptive Statistics.

NC Math 2

This course continues a progression of the standards established in Math 1. In addition to these standards, NC Math 2 includes: polynomials, congruence and similarity of figures, trigonometry with triangles, modeling with geometry, probability, making inferences and justifying conclusions. Specific Units of study include: Creating Equations and Polynomials; Quadratic Functions; Complex Numbers and Square Roots; Radical Functions; Introduction to Proof; Geometric Transformations; Angles, Lines, and Triangles; Triangle Congruence; Similarity Transformations and Trigonometry; Applications of Probability.

NC Math 3

This course progresses from the standards learned in NC Math 1 and NC Math 2. In addition to these standards, NC Math 3 extends to include algebraic concepts such as: the complex number system, inverse functions, trigonometric functions and the unit circle. NC Math 3 also includes the geometric concepts of conics and circles. Specific Units of study include: Relationships between Quantities, Polynomials, Rational Functions, Exponential and Logarithmic Functions; Congruence and Quadrilaterals; Circles; Density and Geometric Modeling in Three Dimensions; Statistics; Trigonometric Functions; Mathematical Modeling.

NC Math 4

This course is a new course for 2020 - 2021 school year. The primary focus of this course is on functions and statistical thinking, continuing the study of algebra, functions, trigonometry and statistical concepts previously experienced in NC Math 1-3. The course is designed to be a capstone to introductory statistical concepts. Additionally, the course intentionally integrates concepts from algebra and functions to demonstrate the close relationship between algebraic reasoning as applied to the characteristics and behaviors of more complex functions. In many cases, undergraduate students majoring in non-STEM fields will take an entry-level Algebra or Introductory Statistics course. Students will be prepared for college level algebra and statistics or as a bridge to prepare students for Precalculus or other advanced math courses.

Pre-Calculus Honors

With an emphasis on function families and their representations, Precalculus is a thoughtful introduction to advanced studies leading to calculus. The course briefly reviews linear equations, inequalities, and systems and moves purposefully into the study of functions. Students then discover the nature of graphs and deepen their understanding of polynomial, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Scaffolding rigorous content with clear instruction, the course leads students through an advanced study of trigonometric functions, matrices, and vectors. The course concludes with a short study of probability and statistics.

SCIENCE - CORE COURSES

Earth/Environmental Science

This course is laboratory-based science class emphasizing the function of the earth’s systems. Emphasis is placed on the human interactions with the earth’s geologic and environmental systems, predictability of a dynamic earth, origin and evolution of the earth system and universe, geochemical cycles and energy in the earth system. Specific Units of study include: Earth in the Universe; Earth's Structure and Plate Tectonics; Rocks, Minerals and Soil; Weathering and Erosion; Biomes and Biodiversity; Freshwater and Marine Resources; The Atmosphere and Weather; Climate and Climate Change; Humans and the Environment.

Physical Science

This course is laboratory-based science class in which students will study the principles of chemistry and physics that include matter, energy, and structure of atoms, chemical reactions, forces, and motion. Specific Units of study include: Atoms and the Periodic Table; Chemical Bonding and Compounds; Properties and Changes of Matter; Mixtures, Solutions, and Acid-Base Reactions; Motion, Forces, Work, Power, and Energy; Thermal Energy and Heat; Waves and Electricity; Magnetism.

Biology

This course is laboratory-based science class in which students will study the cell, the molecular basis of heredity, biological evolution, interdependence of organisms, matter and energy, and organization in living systems and the behavior of organisms. Specific Units of study include: The Chemistry of Life; Cellular Structure and Function; Cellular Energy and Reproduction; DNA and Protein Synthesis; Genetics and Heredity; Natural Selection and Evolution; Classifying Organisms; Introduction to Ecology and Humans and the Environment.

Chemistry Honors

This honors level course is a laboratory-based science class in which students will study the structure and properties of matter as they explore chemical reactions, the structure of atoms, conservation and interactions of energy and matter. Specific Units of study include: Atomic Structure and the Periodic Table; States and Changes of Matter; Chemical Bonding; Chemical Reactions and Stoichiometry; The Gas Laws; Reaction Rates and Equilibrium; Energy in Chemical Reactions; Hydrates, Mixtures, and Solutions; Acids and Bases; Nuclear Chemistry.

Physics Honors

This acquaints students with topics in classical and modern physics. The course emphasizes conceptual understanding of basic physics principles, including Newtonian mechanics, energy, thermodynamics, waves, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear and modern physics. Throughout the course, students solve mathematical problems, reason abstractly, and learn to think critically about the physical world. The course also includes interactive virtual labs and hands-on lab options, in which students ask questions and create hypotheses.

SOCIAL STUDIES - CORE COURSES

World History

The World History course will address six (6) periods in the study of World History, with a key focus of study from the mid 15th century to present. Students taking this course will study major turning points that shaped the modern world. Specific Units of study include: Ancient Civilizations: The River Valleys; Ancient Civilizations and Empires: Greece and Rome; Ancient Civilizations and Empires: Growth in the Eastern Hemisphere; Conflict and Innovation in Medieval Europe; Global Interaction: Renaissance, Reformation, and Expansion; Revolutions and Rebellions in Europe; Revolutions and Rebellions Continue; Conflict in the Modern Era: Imperialism and World War I; Conflict in the Modern Era: The Interwar Years and World War II; Conflict in the Modern Era: Communism and the Cold War; Shifting Power: Independence and New Nations; Shifting Power: Global Conflict and Interdependence.

American History I

This Freshmen Course begins with the European Exploration of the new world through Reconstruction. Students will examine the historical and intellectual origins of the United States from European exploration and colonial settlement to the Revolutionary and Constitutional eras. Students will learn about the important political and economic factors that contributed to the development of colonial America and the outbreak of the American Revolution as well as the consequences of the Revolution, including the writing and key ideas of the U.S. Constitution. Specific Units of study include: Early Exploration; The Thirteen Colonies; The Road to Revolution; The War of Independence; A New Nation; Expansion, Slavery, and Abolition; The Path to War; The Civil War; Reconstruction and Expansion; Industrialization; Conflict.

American History II

This course will guide students from the late nineteenth century time period through the early 21st century. Students will examine the political, economic, social and cultural development of the United States from the end of the Reconstruction era to present times. An emphasis is placed on the expanding role of the federal government and federal courts as well as the continuing tension between the individual and the state. Specific Units of study include: Industrialization and the Gilded Age, Imperialism and the Great War, The Interwar Years, World War II, The Rise of the Cold War, Civil Rights, Toward A New Millennium and The US In Today's World.

Amer His: Found Prin, Civics & Econ

Civics and Economics has been developed as a course that provides a framework for understanding the basic framework of American democracy, practices of American government as established by the United States Constitution, basic concepts of American politics and citizenship and concepts in macro and micro economics and personal finance. Through the study of Civics and Economics, students will acquire the skills and knowledge necessary to become responsible and effective citizens in an interdependent world. Specific Units of study include: Introduction to American Government; The Constitution; Civil Rights and Liberties; Government Institutions; Participation and Policy; Introduction to Economics; Microeconomics; Macroeconomics; Domestic and Global Economic Policy; Personal Finance.

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

The health and physical education course required for high school graduation will be a combination of healthy living and personal fitness standards.

WORLD LANGUAGES

Courses in the World Language category last 18 weeks (1 semester),  are all one full high school credit and count towards the elective/world language graduation requirement.  Honors level is not offered for world languages and there is no in person state exam.

American Sign Language I

This beginning of this course will introduce you to vocabulary and simple sentences, so that you can start communicating right away. Importantly, you will explore Deaf culture: social beliefs, traditions, history, values and communities influenced by deafness. The second semester will introduce you to more of this language and its grammatical structures.

 American Sign Language II

In this course, students will build on the skills they learned in American Sign Language 1 and explore the long and rich history of Deaf culture and language. They will expand their knowledge of the language as well as their understanding of the world in which it is frequently used. Students will grow their sign vocabulary and improve their ability to interact using facial expressions and body language. They will also learn current trends in technology within ASL as well as potential education and career opportunities.

 Chinese I

Students begin their introduction to Chinese with fundamental building blocks in four key areas of foreign language study: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Each unit consists of an ongoing adventure story, a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, and multimedia cultural presentations covering major Chinese-speaking countries.

Chinese II

Students continue their introduction to Chinese in this second-year course with review of fundamental building blocks in four key areas of foreign language study: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Each unit consists of an ongoing adventure story, a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, and multimedia cultural presentations covering major Chinese-speaking countries.

 French I

Students begin their introduction to French with fundamental building blocks in four key areas of foreign language study: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Each unit consists of an ongoing adventure story, a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, and multimedia cultural presentations covering major French-speaking areas in Europe and across the globe.

French II

Students continue their introduction to French in this second-year language course with review of fundamental building blocks in four key areas of foreign language study: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Each unit consists of an ongoing adventure story, a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, cultural presentations covering major French-speaking areas across the globe, and assessments.

 French III

In this expanding engagement with French, high students deepen their focus on four key skills in foreign language acquisition: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition, students read significant works of literature in French and respond orally or in writing to these works. Continuing the pattern and building on what students encountered in the first two years, each unit consists of a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, and multimedia cultural presentations covering major French-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas.

Latin I

Students begin their introduction to Latin with fundamental building blocks in four key areas of foreign language study: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Each unit consists of a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, cultural presentations covering significant aspects of Roman culture or their modern-day manifestations, and assessments.

Latin II

Students continue their introduction to Latin by continuing to cover the fundamental building blocks in four key areas of foreign language study: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Each unit consists of a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, a notable ancient myth in Latin, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, cultural presentations covering significant aspects of Roman culture or their modern-day manifestations, and assessments

Spanish I

Students begin their introduction to Spanish with fundamental building blocks in four key areas of foreign language study: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Each unit consists of an ongoing adventure story, a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, and multimedia cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking.

Spanish II

Students continue their introduction to Spanish with fundamental building blocks in four key areas of foreign language study: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Each unit consists of an ongoing adventure story, a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas, and assessments.

Spanish III

In this expanding engagement with Spanish, students deepen their focus on four key skills in foreign language acquisition: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition, students read significant works of literature in Spanish and respond orally or in writing to these works. Continuing the pattern and building on what students encountered in the first two years, each unit consists of a new vocabulary theme and grammar concept, numerous interactive games reinforcing vocabulary and grammar, reading and listening comprehension activities, speaking and writing activities, and multimedia cultural presentations covering major Spanish-speaking areas in Europe and the Americas

 ADVANCED PLACEMENT

All Advanced Placement courses are equal to one high school credit and are full year long courses. AP Examinations are conducted in May of each academic year. Advanced Placement courses also carry an additional 0.5 GPA weight. High School students enrolled in AP courses are expected to take the AP test. Failure to take the AP test may result in the enrolled course being lowered to “Honors” weight.

AP Calculus AB

This college-level, yearlong course prepares students for the Advanced Placement (AP) Calculus AB Exam. Major topics of study in this full-year course include a review of pre-calculus, limits, derivatives, definite integrals, mathematical modeling of differential equations, and the applications of these concepts. Emphasis is placed on the use of technology to solve problems and draw to calculus with concepts and problems.

AP Biology

This yearlong, college-level course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement (AP) Biology exam. Units of study include Biochemistry, Cells, Enzymes and Metabolism, Cell Communication and Cell Cycle, Gene Expression, Evolution and Genetic Diversity, and Ecology. This course includes student guides and materials lists for required hands-on labs; these materials are not included in the course.

AP English Language and Composition

This college-level course prepares students for the AP English Language and Composition Exam while exploring and analyzing a variety of rhetorical contexts. This is a fast-paced, upper- level course designed for highly motivated students. Multiple opportunities are provided to enhance test-taking skills through critical reading, writing, classroom assignments, and discussion activities. AP English Language and Composition practice assessments and essays will be given throughout the course as well. This course provides students an opportunity to increase knowledge concerning prose of many styles and genres, including essays, journalistic writing, political writing, science writing, nature writing, autobiographies/biographies, diaries, speeches, history writing, and critical writing. Throughout the course, there is an intense focus on writing and revising expository, analytical, and argumentative essays to prepare students for a broad range of writing purposes.

AP English Literature and Composition

English Literature and Composition is designed to be a college/ university-level course. This course equips students to critically analyze all forms of literature in order to comment insightfully about an author’s or genre’s use of style or literary device. Students will also interpret meaning based on form; examine the trademark characteristics of literary genres and periods; and critique literary works through expository, analytical, and argumentative essays. As students consider styles and devices, they will apply them to their creative writing. In addition to exposing students to college-level English course work, this course prepares them for the AP English Literature and Composition Exam.

AP Environmental Science

Environmental Science is a laboratory- and field-based course designed to provide students with the content and skills needed to understand the various interrelationships in the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems, and to propose and examine solutions to these problems. Since this is an online course, the laboratory- and field-based activities will be completed virtually and via experiments that students can easily perform at home with common materials. The course is intended to be the equivalent of a one-semester, college-level ecology course.  The course encompasses human population dynamics, interrelationships in nature, energy flow, resources, environmental quality, human impact on environmental systems, and environmental law.

AP Human Geography

Human Geography is a college-level course designed to prepare students for the AP Human Geography Exam. The goal of the course is to provide students with a geographic perspective through which to view the world. Through a combination of direct instruction, documentary videos, and online readings, students will explore geographic concepts, theories, and models; human environment interactions; and interactions among human systems. Topics covered include population, culture, political organization of space, agricultural land use, industrialization, and urban land use. Students will demonstrate their understanding and acquisition of skills through essays, document-based questions, student collaborative activities, and practice AP exams

AP Psychology

Psychology will introduce students to the systematic study of the behavior and mental processes of human means and animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with the major fields within psychology. Students also learn about the methods psychologists use in their science and practice. The major aim of this course is to provide each student with a learning experience equivalent to that obtained in most introductory college psychology courses. In addition, this course has been designed to help students successfully achieve a passing score on the AP® Psychology exam.

AP Spanish Language and Culture

Spanish Language and Culture is an advanced language course in which students acquire proficiencies that expand their cognitive, analytical, and communication skills. The course prepares students for the AP Spanish Language and Culture Exam. It uses as its foundation the three modes of communication (interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational) as defined in the Standards for Foreign Language Learning in the Twenty-First Century. The course is designed as an immersion experience and is conducted almost exclusively in Spanish. In addition, all student work, practices, projects, participation, and assessments are in Spanish. The course teaches language structures in context and focuses on the development of fluency to convey meaning. Students explore culture in both contemporary and historical contexts to develop an awareness and appreciation of cultural products, practices, and perspectives. In addition, students participate in a forum where they are able to share their opinions and comments about various topics and comment on other students’ posts. The course also makes great use of the Internet for updated and current material.

AP Statistics

This yearlong, college-level course is designed to prepare students for the Advanced Placement (AP) Statistics exam. Major topics of study include exploring one-and two-variable data, sampling, experimentation, probability, sampling distributions, and statistical inference. These topics are organized into three big ideas: variation and distribution, patterns and uncertainty, data-based predictions, decisions, and conclusions.

AP United States Government and Politics

This college-level course is designed to prepare students for the AP United States Government and Politics exam. Students will study the Constitutional underpinnings and structure of the United States government, issues of politics and political parties, and topics in civil rights and public policy, demonstrating their understanding and acquisition of skills through written work, project-based activities, and practice exams.

AP United States History

This course surveys the history of the United States from the settlement of the New World to modern times and prepares students for the AP United States History Exam. Emphasizes themes such as national identity, economic transformation, immigration, politics, international relations, geography, and social and cultural change. Students learn to assess historical materials, weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship, and analyze and express historical understanding in writing.

AP World History: Modern

This advanced study of world history explores historical themes common to societies around the world and across time periods, from 1200 to the present day. Emphasis is placed on document analysis, historical thinking skills, reasoning processes, and essay writing. Students will demonstrate their understanding and acquisition of skills through written work, document-based questions, project based activities, and practice exams.

CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE) ELECTIVES

Career Management

Part A

The course is designed to improve workforce skills needed in all careers including communication, leadership, teamwork, decision making, problem solving, goal setting and time management. Students complete activities that help identify personal interests, aptitudes, and learning styles. Students use results of self-assessments to determine careers that may prove personally satisfying.

Part B

Part B introduces students to the working world and provides the knowledge and insight necessary to compete in today’s challenging job market. This course helps students investigate careers as they apply to personal interests and abilities, develop the skills and job search documents needed to enter the workforce, explore the rights of workers and traits of effective employees, and address the importance of professionalism and responsibility as careers change and evolve. This course includes lessons in which students create a self-assessment profile, a cover letter, and a résumé that can be used in their educational or career portfolio.

CTE Forensic Science  : Secrets of the Dead 

Part A
Fingerprints. Blood spatter. DNA analysis. The world of law enforcement is increasingly making use of the techniques and knowledge from the sciences to better understand the crimes that are committed and to catch those individuals responsible for the crimes. Forensic science applies scientific knowledge to the criminal justice system. This part of the course focuses on some of the techniques and practices used by forensic scientists during a crime scene investigation (CSI).  Starting with how clues and data are recorded and preserved, the student will follow evidence trails until the CSI goes to trial, examining how various elements of the crime scene are analyzed and processed.

Part B

Although the crime scene represents the first step in solving crimes through forensic science, the crime laboratory plays a critical role in the analysis of evidence. This part of the course focuses on the analysis of evidence and testing that takes place within this setting. We will examine some of the basic scientific principles and knowledge that guides forensic laboratory processes, such as those testing DNA, toxicology, and material analysis. Techniques such as microscopy, chromatography, odontology, entomology, mineralogy, and spectroscopy will be examined.

CTE Foundations of Health Science

Part A

This course is an overview of health careers and overriding principles central to all health professions. The course provides a foundation for further study in the field of health science. Upon completion of the course, students are able to discuss the potential career choices and have an understanding of basic concepts that apply to these different choices such as science and technology in human health, disease, privacy, ethics and safety. Essential skill development, such as communication and teamwork, are also addressed.

Part B

Careers in Allied Health is a course that focuses on select allied health careers, studying a variety of different levels, responsibilities, settings, education needs and amounts of patient contact. The course includes an overview of the degree or training needed for each job, the environment one would work in, how much money the position could make, and the facts of the actual working day. Within each job type, students explore important aspects applicable to the entire field of allied health, such as behaving ethically, working as a team, keeping patients safe and free from infections and germs, honoring diverse needs of diverse patients, and following laws and policies.

CTE Foundations of Information Tech

This course introduces students to the essential technical and professional skills required in the field of Information Technology (IT). Through hands-on projects and written assignments, students gain an understanding of the operation of computers, computer networks, Internet fundamentals, programming, and computer support. Students also learn about the social impact of technological change and the ethical issues related to technology. Throughout the course, instructional activities emphasize safety, professionalism, accountability, and efficiency for workers within the field of IT.

CTE Intro to Computer Science

This course is designed for students in grades 9–10, although any students across grades 9–12 may enroll. This course introduces students to the foundational concepts of computer science and challenges them to explore how computing and technology can affect the world. Students have creative, hands-on learning opportunities to create computer programs, develop web pages, design mobile apps, write algorithms, and collaborate with peers while building strong foundational knowledge. This course provides a solid foundation for more advanced study as well as practical skills that students can use immediately.

CTE Natural Resources I

Part A

Forests and other natural resources play an important role in our world, from providing lumber and paper products to providing habitat for birds and animals. In this part of the course, you’ll learn more about forest ecology, management, and conservation. You’ll explore topics such as environmental policy, land use, water resources, and wildlife management. Finally, you’ll learn more about forestry related careers and important issues facing forestry professionals today.

Required Materials

• A digital camera or camera phone
• Approximately 1 cup of soil
• A clear glass jar with a lid
• Water to fill the jar
• A ruler or tape measure
• Marker or tape
• Supplies for an experiment of the student’s choice
• Samples of water from three different water sources
• 3 clear glass containers with lid

Part B

Food has to travel from the farm to the table, and in this part of the course, you will learn about all of the steps in that journey, beginning with the history of agriculture through

animal husbandry, plant science, and managing our use of natural resources.

Required Materials:

• A digital camera or camera phone
• Supplies for an experiment of the student’s choice

GENERAL ELECTIVES - 1/2 credit courses

African American Studies

How have African Americans shaped the culture of the United States throughout history? Tracing the accomplishments and obstacles of African Americans from the slave trade through emancipation, and to the modern African diaspora, you will learn about the political, economic, social, religious, and cultural factors that have influenced African American life. In African American History, you’ll come face to face with individuals who changed the course of history and learn more about slavery, the Civil Rights Movement, and the many contributions of the African American community to American life. You will also explore how the history of African Americans influences current events today.

Business Computer Information Systems

This course explores the use of technology applications in both business and personal situations. The course provides key knowledge and skills in the following areas: communication, business technology, word processing, spreadsheet, and database applications, telecommunications, desktop publishing, and presentation technology, computer networks, and computer operating systems.

Business Law

Thisl course is designed to provide students with the knowledge of some of the vital legal concepts that affect commerce and trade, after first gaining some familiarity with how laws are created and interpreted. Students are then introduced to the types of businesses that can be created as well as the contractual and liability considerations that can impact a business. Laws that affect how a business is regulated are reviewed, particularly the impact of administrative rules and regulations on a business. Global commerce and international agreements, treaties, organizations, and courts are discussed to get a better sense of what it means to “go global” with a business. Dispute resolution strategies are also addressed.

Creative Writing

For many hundreds of years, literature has been one of the most important human art forms. It allows us to give voice to our emotions, create imaginary worlds, express ideas, and escape the confines of material reality. Through creative writing, we can come to understand ourselves and our world a little bit better. This course provides students

with a solid grounding in the writing process, from finding inspiration to building a basic story to using complicated literary techniques and creating strange hybrid forms of poetic prose and prose poetry. By the end of this course, students will learn how to discover their creative thoughts and turn those ideas into fully realized pieces of creative writing.

Fire and Emergency Services

Emergency and fire-management services are essential infrastructure components of a community. Fire and Emergency Services is a course that provides students with the basic structure of these organizations as well as the rules and guidelines that govern pre-employment education requirements. The vehicles, equipment, and emergency-mitigations strategies that are commonly used in the emergency- and fire-management field are also explored. Students gain an understanding of the goals of an emergency-management service and how they are implemented and managed, including personnel, budget, and labor-management challenges in the organization. Various preparedness plans are discussed as students explore typical characteristics and frameworks of modern emergency and fire-management organizations.

Intro to Careers: Architecture & Construction  

The goal of this course is to provide students with an overview of careers in architecture and construction in order to assist with informed career decisions. This dynamic, rapidly evolving career cluster is comprised of three pathways (fields): Design and Pre-Construction (Architecture and Engineering); Construction (Construction and Extraction); and Maintenance and Operations (Installation, Maintenance, and Repair). The Architecture and Construction career cluster is defined as careers in building, designing, managing, maintaining, and planning the built environment. The built environment encompasses all zones of human activity—from natural conservation areas with minimal human intervention to highly dense areas with tall skyscrapers and intricate highway systems to suburban cul-de-sacs. The interrelated components that make up the built environment are as varied and unique as the professionals who help shape it.

Intro to Careers: Arts, A/V, Tech and Communications

This introductory course provides comprehensive information on five separate areas of arts and communications as potential educational and career pathways, including: audio/video technology and film, performing arts, visual arts, printing technology, journalism and broadcasting, and telecommunication systems. Students who are interested in careers across a broad spectrum of professional positions, including fine artist, telecommunications administrator, magazine editor, broadcast journalist, or computer graphic artist, will gain useful perspective on industry terminology, technology, work environment, job outlook, and guiding principles.

Intro to Careers in Finance

Introduction to Careers in Finance provides the fundamentals of the financial services industry in the United States and explores the jobs and career opportunities that the industry offers. Course units address a broad set of services in the industry including finance overview, financial services, securities analysis, investments, principles of corporate finance, banking services, risk management, and insurance.

Intro to Careers: Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics

This course introduces students to the complicated world of commercial transportation. Students undertake an overview of the fields of transportation, distribution, and logistics, learning the differences between the fields and the primary services provided in each. Students learn how warehousing, inventory, and other associated businesses impact the economy, which includes the advantages and disadvantages of automation on employment. Students learn about the history of transportation including. Students examine the fields that serve to support and manage transportation systems. Lastly, the role of technology and technological development on transportation-related businesses is addressed.

Intro to Coding

Intro to Coding covers a basic introduction to the principles of programming, including algorithms and logic. Students engage in hands-on programming tasks in the Python programming language as they write and test their own code using the approaches real programmers use in the field. Students will program with variables, functions and arguments, and lists and loops, providing a solid foundation for more advanced study as well as practical skills they can use immediately.

Intro to Human Services

This course introduces high school students to the possibilities for careers in the human services professions. Through anecdotes, lessons, and a variety of assignments and projects, students learn about the broad variety of jobs available in the human services. These begin with entry-level positions, such as associate social workers, that require a two-year Associate of Arts degree. Students also learn ethics and philosophies of the helping professions. The history of the profession, as well as the impact of the cultural, social, and economic environment on individual people, especially those who need social services assistance, is also explored.

Intro to Information Technology Support & Services

This course focuses on real-world application, including common industry best practices and specific vendors that offer tools for technicians, project managers, and IT  leadership. Students learn how the IT department of an enterprise supports the overall mission of the company. Students apply their knowledge of hardware and software components associated with IT systems while exploring a variety of careers related to IT support and services. Students analyze technical support needs to perform customer service and configuration management activities. Students also evaluate application software packages and emerging software. Students demonstrate and apply knowledge of IT analysis and design by initiating a system project and evaluating applications within the IT system.

Sociology

This course is designed to give students the tools necessary to concentrate on the systematic study of human society and human interaction. Students will develop a sociological imagination in which they will observe the connections between their personal lives within society, as well as public policy issues. Using observation, the scientific method, and cross-cultural examination, students will discover how patterns of behavior develop, culture is learned, and social predictions are made. Specific Units of study include: An Introduction to Sociology: Exploring Culture and Social Control; Social Structure and Socializing the Individual; Adolescents, Adults, and Families in Society; Deviance; Social Control, Social Stratification, and Social Institutions and Exploring our Differences; Social Structure and Change.

Veterinary Science: Care of Animals

As animals play an increasingly important role in our lives, scientists have sought to learn more about their health and well-being. Taking a look at the pets that live in our homes, on our farms, and in zoos and wildlife sanctuaries, this course will examine some of the common diseases and treatments for domestic animals. Toxins, parasites, and infectious diseases impact not only the animals around us, but at times we humans as well! Through veterinary medicine and science, the prevention and treatment of diseases and health issues is studied and applied.

World Religions

Throughout the ages, religions from around the world have shaped the political, social, and cultural aspects of societies. This course focuses on the major religions that have played a role in human history, including Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Shintoism, and Taosim. Students will trace the major developments in these religions and explore their relationships with social institutions and culture. The course will also discuss some of the similarities and differences among the major religions and examine the connections and influences they have.

GENERAL ELECTIVES - full credit courses

Animation

In this course students will learn how to use animation tools to conceptualize and bring creations to life. This course covers the ins and outs of creating 2D and 3D animation, from start to finish. Students will work on creating a design portfolio and get hands-on experience with creating your own animation projects. Learning about Animation could lead to a thriving career in the growing world of technology and animation.

Art History I

Introducing art within historical, social, geographical, political, and religious contexts for understanding art and architecture through the ages, this course offers students an in-depth overview of art throughout history, with lessons organized by chronological and historical order and world regions. Students enrolled in this course cover topics including early medieval and Romanesque art; art in the twelfth, thirteenth, and fourteenth centuries; fifteenth-century art in Europe; sixteenth-century art in Italy; the master artists; High Renaissance and baroque art; world art, which includes the art of Asia, Africa, the Americas, and the Pacific cultures; eighteenth-and nineteenth-century art in Europe and the Americas; and modern art in Europe and the Americas.

Astronomy - Exploring the Universe

Why do stars twinkle? Is it possible to fall into a black hole? Will the sun ever stop shining? Since the first glimpse of the night sky, humans have been fascinated with the stars, planets, and universe that surrounds us. This course will introduce students to the study of astronomy, including its history and development, basic scientific laws of motion and gravity, the concepts of modern astronomy, and the methods used by astronomers to learn more about the universe. Additional topics include the solar system, the Milky Way and other galaxies, and the sun and stars. Using online tools, students will examine the life cycle of stars, the properties of planets, and the exploration of space.

Engineering Design and Product Development

Part A

This course focuses on building real-world problem solving and critical thinking skills as students learn how to innovate and design new products and improve existing products. Students are introduced to the engineering design process to build new products and to the reverse engineering process, which enables engineers to adjust any existing product. Students identify how engineering and design have a direct impact on the sustainability of our environment and the greening of our economy. Finally, students incorporate the engineering design process, environmental life cycle, and green engineering principles to create a decision matrix to learn how to solve environmental issues.

Part B

This course provides an overview of the concepts of product engineering and development. Students analyze the life cycle of a product to prepare a product for distribution and for target markets. The course begins with building an understanding of the product life cycle, from the initial idea to drafting requirements to using 3-D modeling tools and other design tools. The final unit focuses on assembling the pieces within a project plan to achieve a product and evaluating the plans for a successful product launch. In addition, the course provides information about the different careers available to students interested in engineering, product development, and project management.

Entrepreneurship

This course is designed to provide the skills needed to effectively organize, develop, create, manage and own a business, while exposing students to the challenges, problems, and issues faced by entrepreneurs.  Throughout this course, students explore what kinds of opportunities exist for small business entrepreneurs and become aware of the necessary skills for running a business. Students become familiar with the traits and characteristics that are found in successful  entrepreneurs, and see how research, planning, operations, and regulations can affect small businesses. Students also learn how to develop plans for having effective business management, financing and marketing strategies.

Fashion and Interior Design

Do you have a flair for fashion? Are you constantly redecorating your room? If so, the design industry might just be for you! In this course, you’ll explore what it is like to work in the industry by exploring career possibilities and the background that you need to pursue them. Get ready to try your hand at designing as you learn the basics of color and design then test your skills through hands-on projects. In addition, you’ll develop the essential communication skills that build success in any business. By the end of the course, you’ll be well on your way to developing the portfolio you need to get your stylishly clad foot in the door of this exciting field.

Required Materials:

• Clothing items
• Sewing machine
• Digital camera
• Thread
• Fabric
• Clothing Patterns
• Measuring tape

Human Development and Real World Parenting

Part A

This course focuses on human growth and development over the lifespan, as well as careers that help people deal with various physical, intellectual, and socioemotional issues, such as physicians, nurses, nutritionists, substance abuse counselors, clergy, teachers, career counselors, psychologists, and psychiatrists. The course provides a background in human growth and development from before birth, through childhood, into adulthood, and through death and grief. It gives the student perspective and highlights where people in the caring professions are most needed. Students who take this course will come away with a broad understanding of all the careers that help people from birth to death.

Part B

What is the best way to care for children and teach them self confidence and a sense of responsibility? Parenting involves more than having a child and providing food and shelter. Learn what to prepare for, what to expect, and what vital steps parents can take to create the best environment for their children. Parenting roles and responsibilities, nurturing and protective environments for children, positive parenting strategies, and effective communication in parent/ child relationships are some of the topics covered in this course.

Intro to Art

Covering art appreciation and the beginning of art history, this course encourages students to gain an understanding and appreciation of art in their everyday lives. Presented in an engaging format, this course provides an overview of many introductory themes: the definition of art, the cultural purpose of art, visual elements of art, terminology and principles of design, and two- and three-dimensional media and techniques. Tracing the history of art, students enrolled in the course also explore the following time periods and places: prehistoric art, art in ancient civilizations, and world art before 1400.

Intro to Biotechnology

Can we bring back extinct species? Will the cures for cancer, malaria, and other diseases come from the combination of natural materials and new technologies? How is science changing the foods we eat? Welcome to the world of biotechnology! In this course, you will explore the history of biotechnology, including early attempts at food preservation, the development of antibiotics, and changes to food crops around the world. You’ll also learn more about some of the challenges of biotechnology, such as the growth of antibiotic resistant bacteria and questions about the safety of commercially produced genetically modified organisms (GMOs). Finally, you’ll research new biotechnologies and how they are changing the world we live in.

Intro to Business

In this introductory course, students learn the principles of business using real‐world examples—learning what it takes to plan and launch a product or service in today’s fast paced business environment. This course covers an introduction to economics, costs and profit, and different business types. Students are introduced to techniques for managing money, personally and as a business, and taxes and credit; the basics of financing a business; how a business relates to society both locally and globally; how to identify a business opportunity; and techniques for planning, executing, and marketing a business to respond to that opportunity.

Intro to Communications and Speech

Beginning with an introduction that builds student understanding of the elements, principles, and characteristics of human communication, this course offers fascinating insight into verbal and nonverbal messages and cultural and gender differences in the areas of listening and responding. Students enrolled in this course will be guided through engaging lectures and interactive activities, exploring themes of self-awareness and perception in communication. The course concludes with units on informative and persuasive speeches, and students are given the opportunity to critique and analyze speeches.

Intro to Health Science

This course introduces students to a variety of healthcare careers, as they develop the basic skills required in all health and medical sciences. In addition to learning the key elements of the U.S. healthcare system, students learn terminology, anatomy and physiology, pathologies, diagnostic and clinical procedures, therapeutic interventions, and the fundamentals of medical emergency care. Throughout the course, instructional activities emphasize safety, professionalism, accountability, and efficiency for workers within the healthcare field.

 Marine Science

Have you wondered about the secrets of the deep and how the creatures below the ocean’s surface live and thrive? Understand more about the aquatic cycles, structures, and processes that generate and sustain life in the sea.

Microsoft Office Specialist

This course introduces students to the features and functionality of the most widely used productivity software in the world: Microsoft® Office®. Through video instruction, interactive skill demonstrations, and numerous hands-on practice assignments, students learn to develop, edit and share Office 2016 documents for both personal and professional use. By the end of this course, students will have developed basic proficiency in the most common tools and features of the Microsoft Office suite of applications: Word®, Excel®, PowerPoint®, and Outlook®.

Personal Finance

This course prepares students to understand economic activities and challenges of individuals and families, the role of lifestyle goals in education and career choices, procedures in a successful job search, financial forms used in independent living, and shopping options and practices for meeting consumer needs. The course also prepares students to understand consumer rights, responsibilities, and information, protect personal and family resources, and apply procedures for managing personal finance. Specific Units of study include: Take Charge of Your Financial Well Being; The Principles of Managing Your Money: Budgeting and Spending; The Principles of Managing Your Money and Taxes; The Principles of Earning; Career Planning; The Principles of Earning: Sources of Income; The Principles of Investing; The Principles of Spending: Using Credit Wisely; The Principles of Spending: Identity Theft and Paying Off Debt; The Principles of Spending: Shopping for Food; The Principles of Spending: Exploring Housing and Transportation.

Programming, Web, and Software Development

Part A

This course provides students with an understanding of basic software development concepts and practices, issues affecting the software industry, careers within the software industry, and the skills necessary to perform well in these occupations. Students learn details about core concepts in programming using Java, writing and debugging code, proper syntax, flow of control, order of operations, comparison operators, and program logic tools and models. Students learn the function of key program techniques including if statements, looping, and arrays, as well as web development using HTML and drag-and-drop development of user interfaces in an integrated development environment. Students explore the software development life cycle and different variations used to create software.

Part B

This is a survey course that travels from the first software programs developed to facilitate communication on the Internet, to the new generation of mobile and native apps that access the Internet without a reliance on a web browser. It  is also a practical course in how to develop a presence on the World Wide Web using WordPress and other available web application tools. The goal of the course is to provide the learner insight into the rapidly evolving universe of programming and application development to support informed career decisions in an industry that is changing as quickly as it is growing.

Psychology

Psychology engages students in the understanding, articulation, and dissemination of psychology as a science. Students are introduced to psychology, with a focus on the scientific study of human development, learning, motivation, and personality. It emphasizes the empirical examination of behavior and mental processes and it infuses perspectives fostering students’ growth, development, and understanding of cultural diversity. Students of psychology acquire information from a variety of sources, use information as they make decisions and evaluations, and solve problems. Specific Units of study include: Introduction to Psychology; Psychological Research Methods; Statistics and Ethics in Psychology; The Nervous and Endocrine Systems; Sensation and Perception; States of Consciousness; Altered States of Consciousness; Classical Theories of Learning; Contemporary Theories of Learning; Memory, Language and Problem Solving; What Is Intelligence?; Motivation, Emotion, and Stress; Human Growth and Development; Identity Formation and Transition into Adulthood; Personality, Abnormal Behaviors and Treatment; Disorders; Socialization; Individual Interactions; Group Behaviors.

Public Safety and Law Enforcement

Part A

In this course, students learn about the many careers that exist within the fields of law, law enforcement, public safety, corrections, and security. In addition to learning about the training and educational requirements for these careers, students explore the history of these fields and how they developed to their current state. Students also learn how these careers are affected by and affect local, state, and federal laws. Finally, students examine the relationships between professionals in these fields and how collaborations between professionals in these careers help to create a safer, more stable society.

Part B

This course introduces students to the field of law enforcement and the local, county, state, and federal laws that law enforcement personnel are sworn to uphold. The students also gain an understanding of the career options available in this field and the skills, education, and background experience needed to succeed. Students learn about the evolution of the role of law enforcement in the United States including key changes affecting law enforcement. Students learn about the interaction between local, county, state, and federal law enforcement agencies. Finally, students learn about the types of crime that are commonly committed and the procedures, evidence collection techniques, and technological advances that law enforcement personnel use to investigate crimes

Strategies for Online Learning Success

Part A

Offering a comprehensive analysis of different types of motivation, study habits, and learning styles, this course encourages students to take control of their learning by exploring varying strategies for success. Providing engaging lessons that will help students identify what works best for them individually, this course covers important study skills, such as strategies for taking high-quality notes, memorization techniques, test-taking strategies, benefits of visual aids, and reading techniques.

Part B

This course provides students with a comprehensive introduction to online learning, including how to work independently, stay safe, and develop effective study habits in virtual learning environments. Featuring direct-instruction videos, interactive tasks, authentic projects, and rigorous assessments, the course prepares students for high school by providing in- depth instruction and practice in important study skills such as time management, effective note-taking, test preparation, and collaborating effectively online. By the end of the course, students will understand what it takes to be successful online learners and responsible digital citizens.