COURSE DESCRIPTIONS

ART DEPARTMENT

AP Studio Art 2D

Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable. Students are required to submit a portfolio for the AP test in May. The major emphasis of this course is to provide an intensive examination of the process and content of drawing and painting. Emphasis is placed on the quality, concentration, and breadth of the student’s production and experience in drawing and painting. The course is planned for highly motivated students interested in the serious study of art and may be accepted for college credit.

AP Studio Art 3D

Teacher and counselor recommendation is desirable. Students are required to submit a portfolio for the AP test in May. The major emphasis of this course is to provide an intensive examination of the process and content of sculpture. Emphasis is placed on the quality, concentration, and breadth of the student’s production and experience in sculpture. The course is planned for highly motivated students interested in the serious study of art and may be accepted for college credit.

Cartooning and Animation

The purpose of this course is to provide a balanced visual arts program which guides students to achieve the content standards in the arts. In Cartooning and Animation, students learn about the history and techniques of illustration, cartooning and animation in conjunction with learning about their aesthetic properties. The course includes freehand drawing and rendering, layout, and the use of basic drawing tools and multimedia for the reproduction of images. Students study the uses, thematic elements, character development, and visual effects incorporated into political and social cartoons in historical and contemporary times.  Students regularly show work to professional animators via ACME Animation’s website and weekly videoconferences. Careers in cartooning, animation and interactive gaming will be discussed.

Design

Prerequisite: None

An introductory art class on the fundamentals of art which provides a framework for other advanced art courses. The study of color, line shape, texture, and space through the use of a variety of media and subject matter will be explored.

Design Craft

Prerequisite: None

Creative exploration in two and three dimensional design. Students will emphasize the use of color, line, shape, texture and space. Projects will be made with paint, paper fabrics, fibers, wood, metal, plaster and wax.

Digital Imaging 1AB

Prerequisite: None

The purpose of this course is to provide a balanced visual arts program, which guides students to achieve the content standards. Students will develop aesthetic criteria to create and assess graphic imagery using computers and contemporary technologies. Importance is placed on developing knowledge of the elements of art and principles of design as they are used in visual communication. Students learn about the history of graphic design, making aesthetic decisions, use of contemporary technologies, drawing with traditional and contemporary media, color theory, layout and design, desktop publishing, and career opportunities.

Digital Imaging Production

This class introduces students to macromedia flash and other various software. It lays out a basic foundation and understanding web animation and other computer generated graphics. This class transitions over to web design using HTML programming. Student will learn the codes and techniques needed to complete a fully navigational website.

Drawing 1A

Prerequisite: None

A basic drawing class with an emphasis on learning basic drawing skills through a variety of subject matter and drawing materials.

Drawing 1B

Prerequisite: Drawing 1A

This class provides a more in-depth study of the use of drawing materials with a creative and innovative approach to a variety of drawing projects.

Painting 1A

An introductory painting class dealing with the basic color concept and various ways of interpreting the subject matter. Students are introduced to the use of tempura and watercolor.

Painting 1B

Prerequisite: Painting 1A

An advanced class where students are introduced to oil and acrylics as well as a choice of subject matter of a more personal nature.

Photo 1A

Requirements: 35mm camera in working condition, one roll of film, glue stick, $25 lab fee and additional fee of $5 for color film and developing.

Students learn to make, describe, and interpret visual ideas using photography, collage and drawing, and then create prints using several photographic processes. Students will analyze their photographic work both orally and in writing.

Photo 1B

Prerequisite: Photo 1A

Requirements: Same as Photo 1A plus some additional fees

Advanced assignments include special effects, negative file, sepia tone, litho, sabbitier, and composite. Emphasis on darkroom and studio work.

Yearbook

Requirements: Recommendation, application submission and approval by staff and sponsor.

Assignments: Function as part of a team to produce, promote, design, photograph and facilitate all levels of the yearbook production process.

BUSINESS EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

AP Computer Science

Solving problems is a skill fundamental to the study of computer science. A large part of the course is built around the development of computer programs or parts of programs that partly solve a problem. Emphasis is towards design issues that make programs understandable, adaptable, and reusable, if needed. Students develop and select appropriate algorithms and data structures to solve the problems. Students code fluently in an object oriented paradigm, using the programming language, Java. Students are expected to be familiar with and be able to use Java from the AP Java subset.

Computer Programming

Enables students to develop skills in programming a computer using BASIC, a programming language. The objectives of introduction to computers are reviewed and these skills are extended by enabling students to practice programming a computer.

Computer Repair

Provides students with an extensive hands-on classroom environment that leads to a comprehensive learning experience in order to pass the computer industry (Comp Tia A+) certification exam.

Digital Graphics

Prerequisite: Introduction to computer literacy, successful completion of the Computer Skills Proficiency Test, or instructor approval.

Basic computer instruction for graphic production and design. Instruction and activities in the use of digital software and hardware.

Use of electronic input and output devices. Use of Adobe Photoshop 5.5 and web page development using Netscape Composer.

Networking

This comprehensive program prepares students to build, manage and maintain a campus network which prepares students to take the Cisco Certified Network Associate (CCNA) certification computer industry internet working exam.

Introduction to Computers

The major emphasis of this course is to help the students develop a basic awareness of the way in which computers work. This introductory course emphasizes interaction with computers in developing skills in keyboarding, word processing, and data processing. Students will learn computer terminology, computer languages, care of equipment and software, and operation of equipment through hands-on experience. Improvement of keyboarding, formatting, composing, and editing skills will also be emphasized.

EDUCATIONAL CAREERS

Life skills in the 21^st century

This is a one semester course designed for 9^th grade students. The major emphasis of this course is to have students learn and internalize values, attitudes and behaviors that are essential in life and success in academic environments as well as the workplace. The course will help students to understand graduation requirements and options for higher learning.

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

English 9AB

The major emphasis of the course is to promote the communication skills of ninth-grade students through a balanced language arts program which provides for students growth through appropriate practice in reading, writing, listening, speaking, and critical thinking. The literature based units provide a standards based framework in which students use English skills to access the ideas, attitudes, ideals, and values of the past present and future.

English 10 AB

Meets basic English requirements and extends the communication skills of reading, discussing, listening, and writing. Stresses reinforcement of grammar and writing skills. Students learn to structure paragraphs and short essays, read the major forms of literature-biography, drama, novel, short story, and mass media and relate ideas in them to their own experiences and to those of others.

Advanced Composition

Practice in different forms of exposition and various ways of presenting a subject.  Includes analytical reading of significant literature and demands high level thinking skills. Also includes finalization of all required elements of Senior Portfolio.  Class is equivalent to Honors Expository Composition.

Advanced Placement English Language

The objective of the course is to guide students to write with clarity and organization required in a college level class. This course adheres to the AP English Language course descriptions designed to enable students to become analytical readers and writers who can communicate their ideas verbally and through various written forms: narration, exposition, classification, argumentation as well as comparison and contrast.

Advance Placement English Literature and Composition AB (AP)

Develops comprehension of literary forms and content through reading, discussion, and composition. Certain colleges may accept AP for course credit or advanced placement of students who qualify. Replaces Expository Composition and English elective requirement. Prior Honors classes with an “A” or “B” grade is strongly recommended

American Literature/ Contemporary Composition

Designed to meet academic English requirements for high school graduation as well as the entrance requirements for the community colleges, the University of California, and the California State University system. American Literature covers many types of Literature, including short stories, drama, poetry and non-fiction and several novels all written by American authors. Contemporary Composition stresses literary interpretations of experience and values in the United States and reinforces writing skills and introduces the research paper. Other areas of emphasis are on vocabulary development, multi-paragraph development and various genres of written composition.

Cinema A and B

This elective course explores the history, influence, and impact of narrative film and develops a foundation for understanding theme, story, genre, and dramatic and cinematic elements. The course will explore the skills of watching films with a critical eye and the techniques that shape the audience’s perceptions. Overall, the course provides a framework for integrating knowledge of all these elements into a thoughtful and critical analysis of the whole film.

Drama A and B

Theatre Arts class includes improvisation, voice, diction, pantomime, creating a character, learning lines, projecting ideas, and emotions, preparing and acting scenes from plays. Students will engage in acting projects, group experiences, and cooperative assignments. Reading and writing: dramatic literature, critiques, character analyses, play reports introductions and more. Class may be taken at any grade level and may be taken for two semesters.

English Literature

Representative selections by major authors of the literature of the British Isles, reading comprehension and interpretation skills stressed as a means of widening intellectual interests and developing imaginative and critical faculties. Meets English requirement for High School, graduation and entry into UC and CSU systems.

Expository Composition

Emphasis on expository writing and essentials skills of editing. Prepares practice in and completion of all essential elements of the senior portfolio.

Required course. Alternatives are Advanced Composition (honors level Expos) or AP Literature.

Journalism

This is a two semester class. The first semester will cover the required Expository Composition graduation requirement. The second semester will cover the English elective high school requirement, and the UC/CSU Fine Arts requirement. The first semester will teach the journalistic (expository) style of writing. The first and second semester will include the production of the school newspaper

Modern Literature

Study of significant works of 20^th century literary movements from four or more cultures. Examples from literary genres and mass media increases knowledge and understanding of the world’s people. Meets English requirement for high school graduation and entry into UC and CSU systems.

Play production

Original work, improvisations, and advanced acting projects. Produces full length production for public performance. This class meets the Fine Arts requirement for both High School graduation and entry into the UC and CSU system.

Shakespeare

Study of selected sonnets and at least four plays, including a representative comedy, tragedy, and history including some explanation of historical setting. Emphasizes enjoyment of the works through group and individual interpretation.  Meets English requirement for high school graduation and entry into UC and CSU systems.

World Literature

Examines aspects of epic, verse forms, prose narratives, and drama through representative works from at least three national literatures in addition to Greek and Roman literature. Expressed values, ideas, and ideals, both similar to and different from the western perspective are considered. Meets English requirement for high school graduation and entry into UC and CSU systems.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE DEPARTMENT

French 1AB*

Provides practice in listening and speaking within limited scope; includes brief dialogues and narratives related to activities in school, home and community. Stresses correct pronunciation and intonation. Provides practice in correct use of elementary basic language structures and in reading and writing familiar material. Encourages appreciation of French customs and culture and develops concepts related to the geography in France, from Paris to other places of interest, including important French Holidays.

French 2AB**

Reviews materials presented in French 1AB. Extends ability in aural comprehension, speaking, oral reading and writing. Provides practice in using language structures, writing adapted dialogues and narrative, and writing dictation. Continue to stress correct pronunciation and intonation. Develops insights into life and customs of people in various French countries.

French 3AB ***

Develops further aural/oral facility in French. Includes reading material on French History and civilization. Includes discussion of current events and continues the study of all basic language structures. Introduces outstanding figures in French History, art, literature, music, and science. Provides practice in writing composition and summaries. Involves class discussion concerning important aspects of the French Civilization.

French 4AB ****

Completes the study of all basic language structures. Provides activities for development of proficiency in all communication skills. Includes listening to native speakers, discussion of contemporary problems, oral reports, reading short stories and periodicals and writing original compositions. Includes reading of works of French literature and selected topics of music and arts.

Spanish 1AB *

Provides practice in listening for comprehension and in speaking in limited scope, including brief dialogues and narratives related to activities in school, home and community. Stresses correct pronunciation and intonation. Provides correct use of basic language structures in oral reading and writing familiar material. Develops appreciation of the customs and traditions of Spanish speaking people as reflected in our local community and in the southwest.

Spanish 2AB **

Reviews materials presented in Spanish 1AB. Extends ability in aural comprehension, speaking, oral reading and writing. Provides practice in language structures appropriate to this level. Continues to stress correct pronunciation and intonation. Develops understanding and appreciation of Spanish people, regional differences, and important historical events in Spanish history.

Spanish 3AB ***

Develops further aural-oral facility in Spanish through more varied listening and speaking activities such as viewing Spanish language films, discussing current events, and taking dictation. Completes the study of basic language structures. Provides practice in writing directed compositions and summaries. Offers opportunities for class discussion involving important aspects of historic civilization and customs.

Advanced Placement Spanish

Provides opportunities to read representative novels, short stories, and plays. Includes a variety of areas relating to aesthetic and intellectual experience in such fields as art, architecture, music, and the sciences. Develops appreciation of style and expression. Improves proficiency in all communication skills through such as listening to native speakers and to recorded selections of prose and poetry, discussions of contemporary problems, and presentation of oral reports. Includes writing of resumes and original compositions while reinforcing language structures. Emphasizes oral communication.

Spanish for Spanish Speakers I/II

Will provide learning and practice in speaking and writing correctly in Spanish. It will provide the correct usage of basic language structures in reading and writing appreciation, and understanding of the customs and traditions of the Spanish speaking countries.

Italian 1AB*

This course will develop basic skills in beginning language and will include studies in the cultures of Italian-speaking countries. Provides practice in listening and speaking in a limited scope; includes brief dialogues and narratives related to activities in school, home, and community.

Italian 2AB**

Reviews materials presented in Italian 1AB. Extends ability in oral comprehension, speaking, oral reading, and writing. Provides opportunity to read for direct comprehension without translation. Provides practice in language structure, in writing adapted dialogues and narratives, and in writing from dictation.

Italian 3AB***

Reviews materials presented in Italian 2AB. Develops further ability in oral comprehension, speaking, oral reading, and writing. Provides opportunity to read for direct comprehension without translation. Provides practice in using language structures, in writing adapted dialogues and narrative, and in writing from dictation.

*C  average or better in English is strongly recommended for Foreign Language 1AB classes.

**Prerequisite: C average or better is strongly recommended for Foreign Language 1AB.

***Prerequisite: B average or better is strongly recommended for Foreign Language 2AB.

**** Prerequisite: B average or better is strongly recommended for Foreign Language 3AB.

HEALTH DEPARTMENT

Health Education

Develops understanding of basic health concepts. Encourages attitudes and skills that lead to effective decisions and life styles in regard to individual, family, and public health. Fulfills requirements of the California Education Code considering the teaching of safety and first aid, the effects of narcotics, dangerous drugs, alcohol and tobacco on the human body.

INDUSTRIAL ARTS DEPARTMENT

Bench Carpentry

Prerequisite: Woodworking 2AB

The major emphasis of this course is to provide experiences in the speed and accuracy of work, with skills necessary for entry-level employment in cabinetmaking and related fields. Provides additional emphasis and in-depth experience in development of performance skills exportable to employment. This advanced vocational course in cabinetmaking provides opportunities for students to participate in increasingly complex activities and study of problems and projects. Continues advanced study in cabinetmaking, furniture construction, patternmaking, laminating and wood finishing. May be repeated for credit.

First Responder

This competency based course is designed to prepare students for entry into the Homeland security careers and the health care industry. It covers the relevance, history, future, and components of the emergency system, the well- being of the first responders, legal and ethical issues, medical terminology and abbreviations, basic anatomy and physiology, first aid, earthquake awareness, disaster fire suppression techniques, terrorism and homeland defense, disaster medical operations and multi-causality incident management, team organization and disaster psychology, light search and rescue operations, disaster simulations, and employable skills.

Graphic Design Fundamentals

A graphic design course in Architecture with emphasis on design in the three dimensional form. The course is project based in modeling and graphic presentation. Course resultants are toward portfolio development for use in the attainment of entry level internship positions in the architecture and graphic design fields.

Sports Therapy Aide

This course is designed for students interested in Sports Therapy and related careers. Students will receive classroom instruction in anatomy, physiology, healing processes, injury evaluation and basic knowledge of sports medicine, personal training, physical therapy aide and fitness instructor. Students will receive hands-on training at various sports and fitness facilities.

Woodworking 1AB

The major emphasis of this course is to develop basic skills with hand tools, machine tools, and processes through lab activity and supplemental instruction. Stresses the study of related technical, general, and occupational information. Students develop demonstrated performance skills usable in employment. This basic course in prevocational Woodworking Technology provides a broad overview of the fields of carpentry, cabinetmaking, and furniture construction.

Woodworking 2AB

Prerequisite: Woodworking Technology 1AB

The major emphasis of this course is to provide experiences in the application of previously acquired skills and knowledge of Woodworking requiring a high degree of accuracy and skill. Offers activities and related study in cabinetmaking, furniture construction, patternmaking, laminating, and wood finishing. Includes methods of mass production and related occupational information. Stresses development of performance skills usable in employment.

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

Algebra 1AB

This course is designed to extend students’ previous experience with patterns to a more formal understanding of relations, functions, and the symbolic language and structure of algebra. Successful completion of Algebra 1AB prepares students for Geometry AB and meets the UC/CSU admission requirement.

Geometry AB

Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra 1B.

The purpose of Geometry is to present geometrical concepts and patterns that are important to the development of students’ thinking and problem-solving skills. The students work with the body of geometry theorems, including theorems involving two or three dimensions. Aside from learning these skills and concepts, students will develop their ability to construct formal, logical arguments and proofs in geometric settings and problems.

Geometry AB meets the UC/CSU admission requirement.

Algebra 2AB

Prerequisite: C or better in Geometry B

This course complements and expands the mathematical content of Algebra 1 and Geometry. Students who master Algebra 2 will gain experience with algebraic solutions of problems in various content areas, including the solution of systems of quadratic equations, logarithmic and exponential functions, the binomial theorem, and the complex number system. Algebra 2 meets the UC/CSU admission requirement.

Math Analysis AB

Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra 2B The purpose of this course is to develop a firm background in, and to extend the understanding of pre-calculus topics and concepts. This discipline combines many of the trigonometric, geometric, and algebraic techniques needed to prepare students for the study of calculus. The most significant new concept is that of limits. Math Analysis AB meets the UC/CSU admission requirement C.

A.P. Calculus AB

Prerequisite: C or better in Math Analysis B

The course is intended for students who may have a thorough knowledge of college preparatory mathematics, including algebra, integrated mathematics, axiomatic geometry, trigonometry, and analytic geometry. It is assumed, however, that they have not yet acquired a sound understanding of the theory of elementary functions. When taught in high school, calculus should be presented with the same level of depth and rigor as entry-level college and university calculus courses. Students who score 3 or more (out of 5) on the AP exam for Calculus AB may receive university calculus credit for the first semester of college-level calculus.

A.P. Statistics AB

Prerequisite: C or better in Algebra 2B

This is a course for students who wish to complete studies in secondary school equivalent to a one semester, introductory, non-calculus based, college course in statistics. The course has been prepared by statisticians and mathematicians, and reflects the content of a typical introductory college course in statistics. Students who score 3 or more (out of 5) on the AP exam for Statistics may receive may receive university credit for a one-semester introductory college course in statistics.

Essentials in Standards Mathematics

This course is designed for students who have failed or need preparation for the California High School Exit Exam. The course emphasizes test taking strategies and the content specified in the CASHEE standards. It is an intervention course and as such, should be offered during summer/intersession before or following the administration of the CASHEE. Students who pass this course will earn five (5) elective credits. Should a student need to take this course more than once, he/she will only receive the five elective credits one time.

MUSIC

Advanced Band

This class is a performance oriented group for students who are in the Marching Band in the fall and wish to continue to improve their skills. This class meets when the Marching Band is not in session. It is advisable to get teacher approval.

Beginning Band

Introductory course for those interested in advancing to Marching Band.

Choir

Develops an understanding and appreciation of music through rehearsal and performance of a variety of choral styles from popular to the classics. The group performs for school assemblies, festivals, exchange concerts, and community activities.

Instruments

This class is for any student who wishes to learn to play a band instrument. Many different types of instruments will be available to play.

Marching Band

Prerequisite: Approval of Instructor

This is a performance oriented group designed to perform at football games, competitions, and other appropriate functions during the Fall Semester. A certain amount of out-of-school time is required for rehearsal and events. Players need not be outstanding in their abilities, but they must be of the caliber that is willing to take on a strong commitment.

PERFORMING ARTS

Cinema A

Prerequisite: None

This is a beginning course in theater. Students learn to act before an audience, do pantomime, improvisations and scenes. They learn a basic understanding of technique, appreciation and characterization.

Cinema B

Prerequisite: Cinema A or teacher approval

This is a continuation of cinema A. It provides a further study of drama, acting techniques, stage movement, theatrical terms and stagecraft and lighting. The course goal is to stage a one act play.

Eye on Verdugo

This class is a student run television show for Verdugo Hills High School. The class is run much like a professional studio, in which the teacher is the station owner and the students are the producers. It is up to the students to work together and produce appropriate segments for the show. The show is made up of different segments such as news stories, sports reports, entertainment, and public service announcements. Due to the complex structure of the class and nature of the show, the responsibility to produce a show per week rests solely on the shoulders of the students. The students in the class display a variety of skills ranging from journalistic writing to film editing.

Play production

Prerequisite: Teacher Approval

This is a performance class. It provides involvement on stage and backstage in major productions and smaller presentations. Students are also given the opportunity to participate in festivals.

Stagecraft

Basic skills and understanding of processes involving stage property and scenery. Practice in stage crew work including preparation of stage lighting, audio, the erection and striking of scenery. Provides an overview of related occupations.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Advanced P.E. 1AB

This course is to address the following content area: effects of physical activity upon dynamic health; mechanics of body movement; aquatics, dance/rhythms, individual activities, and dual activities. It is required for 9^th grade starting with the class of 2011.

Advanced P.E. 2AB

This course is to address the following content areas: effects of physical activity upon dynamic health; mechanics of body movement; combatives, gymnastics/tumbling, and team activities. It is required for 10^th grade students starting with the class of 2011.

Aerobics

Exercises designed specifically for improving cardiovascular function and physical fitness through the mode of dynamic rhythmic dance movements.

Body Dynamics

A comprehensive course in intermediate to advanced body building with an emphasis on Olympic and Power lifts. This course is designed for those serious individuals who aspire to be six, seven, or even eight semester weight trainers.

Movement Body Awareness

The purpose of the course is to give students an understanding of the importance of realizing the connection between body and mind. This connection is promoted by the practice of ancient yoga poses and silent, introspective sessions.

Physical Fitness

Introductory course offering a wide variety of conditioning activities designed to increase the individual’s understanding of conditioning principles and level of fitness necessary for participation in sports or other conditioning activity courses. A variety of activities are included in this program. These activities have included weight training, aerobic dance, jogging, and stretching.

JROTC

The class is Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps. The 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.

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

Advanced Placement Biology

Prerequisite: Approval of instructor Grade 10-12

A second year of biology which stresses molecular biology, genetics, population genetics, and evolution. The course emphasizes laboratory work and experimental aspects of biology and focuses on development of scientific writing in essay form. Prerequisites include one year of biology and one year of chemistry. The course is also designed to prepare students for the advanced placement biology examination. Major universities may give college credit if the College Board Examination is passed.

Advanced Placement Chemistry

Prerequisite: Honors Chemistry with grade “A”, Geometry with grade “A”, concurrent enrollment in Honors/Algebra/Math Analysis or Calculus.

The AP Chemistry course is designed to cover the concepts included in a first year general chemistry college course. Students should attain depth in the understanding of fundamentals and reasoning competence in dealing with chemical problems. The text and the laboratory experiments determine the difference in Advanced Placement and regular high school chemistry.

Advanced Placement Physics AB Grade 12 (Annual Course)

Stresses the analytical approach to problem solving with frequent use of calculus. Includes an in depth treatment of mechanics and electricity and magnetism at the level of a university “engineering physics” class. Preparation for the AP Physics “C” test.

Biology AB (Annual Course)

Study of similarities and differences of all living organisms, their relationships to each other and their environment. Student’s study individual organisms, their functions, reproduction and heredity, and adaptability to environments. Strongly recommended to meet the senior high school requirement of one year of laboratory science. Meets entrance requirements of one year of a laboratory science for University of California system, such as UCLA, state universities such as CSUN, and junior colleges such as Pierce College.

Biology AB – Honors

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.

Chemistry AB

Prerequisite: Algebra 1AB, Biology AB, Geometry is strongly recommended.

Basic concepts include structure of matter bonding, stoichiometry, gas laws, thermochemistry, solutions, ionization, acid-bases, salts, equilibrium, oxidation-reduction, and carbon compounds. Laboratory investigations coordinated with text assignments are emphasized. Chemistry AB is a requirement for pre-med, engineering, and computer science programs.

Earth Science

This course is an activity based course which enables students to understand their physical environment. The course includes the description of and interactions between three of the primary physical spheres of the earth (hydrosphere, lithosphere and atmosphere) and the thermodynamic processes that make the Earth such a unique place. The course also stresses the importance of making political and social decisions based on demonstrable facts rather than vague suppositions.

Intercoodinated Science AB

Grade 9

The major purpose of this course is to provide opportunities for learning science and practicing scientific inquiry. Emphasis is on critical thinking skills and investigative techniques. The content of the course emphasizes the four major scientific disciplines: chemistry, physics, biology, and the earth sciences.

Physics AB

Prerequisite: Algebra 1AB and Geometry, enrollment in Algebra 2AB or Math Analysis.

Emphasizes experimental solution of scientific problems through laboratory investigations and demonstrations. Includes the study of mechanics, optics, wave phenomena, electricity, and magnetism, relativity, and other selected topics in modern physics. Recommended for students planning majors other than physics or engineering.

Physiology AB

Grades 11-12

Designed for those college bound students who wish to continue their studies in the biological sciences; particularly those who have a special interest in the fields of public heath, nursing, and medicine. Develops an understanding of the structure and functions of the human body and the basic biochemical concepts underlying life processes. Emphasis is placed upon laboratory techniques which develop skills in observation, critical thinking and dissection.

SOCIAL STUDIES

Advanced Placement American History AB

Prerequisite: Counselor and teacher approval required for admittance

The major emphasis of this course is upon providing and intensive study of the political, economic, social, intellectual, diplomatic, and cultural development of the United States. This course develops the ability to read advanced level historical work analytically and evaluate historical evidence and interpretations in arriving at conclusions. This is a college level course for students preparing to take the CEEB Advanced Placement Examination in United States History. This course meets the state and district graduation requirements for grade 11.

Advanced Placement American Government and Politics

 Prerequisite: Counselor and teacher approval required for admittance

This course provides and intensive study of how the various elements of government and politics in the United States work together to produce public policy. It examines the critical relationship among the various institutions, government, groups, and ideas that make up the political scene. This course helps the student become familiar with various ideas and theories used to analyze and predict political behavior and the terminology useful in describing politics. The activities include essays, tests, note taking, debates, research projects, and use of with primary and secondary sources. It emphasizes the analysis and interpretation of factual information as it pertains to the US government. This course is designed for students, eligible for Honors Social Science and gives them an opportunity to interact with college-level material. If a student passes the CEEB Advanced Placement Exam, this course may be accepted by colleges for course credit.

Advanced Placement European History

Prerequisite: Counselor and teacher approval

This course provides an in-depth study of European history form 1450 to the present. This course is organized around three major themes in European history: Political and diplomatic history, intellectual and cultural history, and social history, and social and economic history.

Advanced Placement World History and World History AB

The major emphasis of this course is upon continuing the study of the changing world begun in grade 7 and briefly reviewing the area studies presented in that grade. This course is designed to give students both an historical outlook on and a contemporary view of the world. Students will become more knowledgeable about significant historical events, ideas, and forces that have shaped and are shaping our world. The focus of the course is from the late eighteenth century to the present. Political, geographic, economic, social, and cultural evens are emphasized.

Asian Studies

Covers the history, geography, cultural contributions, current affairs, and demography of China, Japan, and Korea, plus Southeast Asian and as time and interest dictate, India, Pakistan and south Asian nations.

International Relations

At a mature level, surveys the world system of sovereign nation-states and their methods of conducting international relations. Planned for able students with considerable interest and ability in social studies who will profit from advanced-level instructional materials. Develops understanding of factors of physical, economic, and political geography that influence relationships among nations.

Economics

The major emphasis of this course is upon studying the basic principles of economics to help students understand the “demand” economic system within which they live and to learn to analyze objectively the wide range of problems that confront their society. Identifies the growing problem caused by unlimited demands on limited natural resources and by socioeconomic desires for a balanced ecology on the one hand and an increased standard of living on the other. Enables students to gain a better of how and why the United States economic system work, how they fit into the economy and influence it by their decisions, and how they can help it to serve them better.

Geography

The major purpose of this course is to study physical geography, including the concept of the relationship of the physical environment to human culture. The course includes cultural and economic geography and geopolitics. Regional studies may include any or all of the following: Europe, Asia, Africa, Latin America, the Middle East, and Oceania. This course also stresses demography, ecology, units on natural and human resources, and continues to develop basic social science skills.

Principals of American Democracy

Prerequisite: United States History AB

Examines our system of government, covering the purpose, structure, and functions of federal, state, county, and local governments and the political and economic principles that underlie our system. United States institutions, ideals, and practices are compared and contrasted with those of other nations. Explores the complex political and economic problems confronting national, state, and local governments and related current affairs and examines taxation and the effect of government policy on the economy. Examines types of elections, voting procedure, campaign techniques, political organizations, and the importance of participation in the democratic process.

United States History AB

Emphasis of this course is the study of the United States in the Twentieth Century. After a brief review of the US History from discovery to the end of the nineteenth century this course focuses on the political, economic, social, and cultural history of the United States. The course is standards based covering eleven standards which analyze separate strands of US History. A state exam is given in May based on the standards. Students need to use their critical thinking skills as they analyze each standard in the course of study. This course is requirement of the state and the district for graduation.

Women in History

The course introduces high school students to influences and contributions of women worldwide. Equal consideration and study will be given to all cultures rather than focusing primarily on the western experience. A variety of historical female roles will be studied, and students will analyze how and why the domestic, occupational, legal, financial, sexual, and social status of women has changed over the past 200 years. Students will examine diverse agents of change and the opposition they met in a wide variety of fields.