Industrial Technology Department
This mission of agricultural education is to prepare and support individuals for careers, build awareness and develop leadership for food, fiber and natural resource systems. Supervised Agriculture Experience (SAE) programs are a primary "learning by doing" tool in agriculture education. All students are required to conduct an SAE which reflects their agricultural interests and career goals. Through these individual programs, members receive hands-on training in goal setting, planning, and record keeping.
All agriculture students are encouraged to participate in all FFA activities. FFA makes a positive difference in the lives of students by developing their potential for premier leadership, personal growth and career success through agriculture education.
Recommended Sequence:
Animal Science I (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Business and Economics--Natural and Managed Systems
Students are introduced to the world of agriculture. Units will be taught in budgeting, record keeping, swine science, and FFA leadership. Career planning is part of the course. An SAE program is required.
Animal Science II (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Animal Science I)
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: business and Economics--Natural and Managed Systems
Students study more in depth the units of budgeting and record keeping. Other units include beef and sheep science and FFA leadership. Nine weeks will be spent in rough carpentry construction. Career planning is part of the course. An SAE program is required.
Welding Processes and Fabrication (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
The course is an introductory class. Units taught will be basic welding with arc and oxy-acetylene, metal fabrication, and safety. FFA leadership, especially parliamentary procedure, will be taught also. Career planning is part of the course. An SAE program is required.
Plant and Soil Science (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Business and Economics--Natural and Managed Systems
The course provides instruction in the production of crops common to the soil type and climate of southern Minnesota. Units taught include crop science (corn, bean, and small grain production), soils, budgeting and FFA Leadership. Career planning is part of the course. An SAE program is required.
Agribusiness/Farm Management (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: Physical and Lifetime Fitness--Occupational Experience
This course will cover management decisions relating to and agribusiness/farm operation. Units taught will be records, planning, financing, taxes, insurance, feeds and feeding buildings, careers, equipment, computers in agriculture, and FFA leadership. Career planning is part of the course. An SAE is required.
The first term begins with a nine-week introduction to small gas engine technology. Areas taught are safety, theories of operation and the disassembly, assembly, and repair of a small gas engine. The second nine weeks a farm business problem involves planning and budgeting an agribusiness or farm for one year. FFA leadership will also be covered. Career planning is part of the course. An SAE is required.
Agri-Leadership (Grade 12)
(Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: Inquiry--Research and Create Business Plan
The course explores and develops personal group leadership and communication skills. Topics include writing a program of work, and computers in farm and agribusiness careers, commodity marketing, computers in farm and agribusiness, agricultural careers and leadership skills. An SAE is required.
The mission of business education is to give students basic information about the world of computers and also to explore different avenues for careers in business fields. There are few jobs which do not require at least some expertise in the use of computers.
Recommended Sequence:
Word Processing I
(Grade 9 required, open to 10, 11, 12, if space is available)
(Required, one term)
This course is designed to enable the student to keyboard with speed and accuracy and precision for mail ability, as well as developing basic computer literacy. A student may test out of this course if expected proficiency has been reached prior to ninth grade. Students will develop proper habits keying with information using the keyboard and number keypad. Students will be expected to use proper hand placement, hot keys, up, side, and down reach keys, capitals, numbers, and special character keys. Students will learn proper formats for various documents including letters, reports, outlines, itineraries, printing options, and résumés.
Computer Applications
(Prerequisites: Keyboarding, Word Processing)
(Elective, one term)
This "hands-on" course will introduce students to basic computer terms, hardware and software components and the operation of personal computer systems. Students will develop additional computer literacy and word processing skills, work with word processing, databases, presentation, and spreadsheet programs. Other applications such as desktop publishing and graphics will be explored.
This course may be taught through Riverland Community College as part of the Post Secondary Enrollment Options Program (PSEO) and credit will then also apply to other Allied Health Programs at the college.
Computers and Information Systems
(Prerequisites: Keyboarding, Word Processing, Computer Applications I)
(Recommendation of instructor required)
(Elective, on term)
This course is designed to give students an understanding of how computers are applied to "real life." The emphasis is on computer literacy and business applications of computer software. Students will learn how to generate, store, and retrieve information using databases, and spreadsheet programs. Other applications such as desktop publishing and graphics are explored with regards to journalism and business applications. Areas of study include: databases, applications, inventories, spreadsheets, checkbook ledgers, accounting, desktop publishing, scanners, cameras, videos for computer-assisted presentations, multi-media projects/presentations newspaper, business reports, graphics file merging, and web pages. Students learn to program in Q BASIC on a microcomputer.
Introduction to Business
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Inquiry--Research and Create a Business Plan
A basic understanding of business principles and management is needed by everyone who plans a career in business. This course will aid students in becoming better consumers as they explore the different types of business organizations and how they are owned, operated, and financed. It will help those who are exploring the possibility of a career in business, those who are entering a business as beginning employees, those who may have an opportunity to manage a business, and those who may eventually own and operate their own business.
Business Law and Ethics
(Prerequisite: Introduction to Business)
(Elective, one term)
Law effects every phase of a person's life. All citizens, no matter what their role, should know what their legal rights are and how to protect them. Along with these rights there are also certain legal responsibilities. Course materials emphasize how the law affects young adults.
Business Communications
(Elective, one session)
This course will help the student become an effective communicator in the buisness world. Basic written communication will be emphasized through pracice in grammar structure, vocabulary building, and organization of thoughts. These skills will then be implemented when the student plans and writes buisness letters, interoffice memorandums, informal buisness reports, and a research paper. A secondary emphasis will be placed on oral communication, listening skills, and nonverbal communication.
Office Procedures
(Prerequisite: Word Processing and Business Communications)
(Elective, on session)
This course will teach office procedures and techniques necessary to perform general office duties. This includes using a word processor, developing transcription skills, composing letters, filing, handling telephone services, discussing proffesionalism, applying grammar rules, and taking care of general office administration. This course would be recommended for anyone interested in a secretarial program or a data entry position.
Desktop Publishing
(Elective, one session)
This course will allow students to learn how to add visual interest to documents using pictures, graphic lines, and a variety of type styles. Desktop publishing is one of the fastest growing areas in the computer industry, and businesses need an increasing number of people who are skilled in desktop publishing methods. Students will produce newsletters, flyers, service projects, and publications. Students will also learn to use different types of desktop publishing software, basic formatting, attractive layout and design, and how to produce and print published documents and business documents.
Accounting I
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Business and Economics--Financial Systems
Students planning to enter any phase of business should have some knowledge of accounting. A background of high school accounting is extremely helpful to students pursuing post-secondary programs in business. In accounting, a student learns how to systematically and accurately keep track of the money that a business earns and spends. The principles can also be applied to forming a personal accounting system.
Accounting II
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Business and Economics--Financial Systems
After additional basic concepts have been covered, the microcomputer will be used to discover ways in which some of the routine reports, payroll, and accounts receivable/payable can be stored, updated, and printed out.
Career Exploration
The mission of career education is to give students the opportunity to learn about the many career options available to them. The Glenville-Emmons School District intends to require students to develop Life Work plans and to consider courses of study connected in part to career goals. The program involves what is known as "School to Work" which gives students a variety of opportunities--job shadowing, mentoring, and work release, and internships or apprenticeships. As this program develops, many more career areas will be explained in more detail.
As members of the Tri-County Partnership, consisting of Freeborn, Mower, and Steele Counties, the Glenville-Emmons School District seeks to provide a variety of opportunities for students to acquire experiences in the workplace which will help them to define their goals for future employment and post-secondary education. The district will continue to explore opportunities for youth apprenticeships articulated between secondary and post-secondary institutions. Students who choose this opportunity may continue toward journey worker status in a recognized State Registered Apprenticeship program, post-secondary education, or employment. Completion of such a program and or graduation from high school does not guarantee future employment.
Students will work closely with the counselor and the work-study coordinator as the district establishes partnerships with business and industry.
Equal Opportunity Statement
It is the policy of District 2886 to comply with federal and state law prohibiting discrimination and all requirements imposed or pursuant to regulations issued thereto, to the end that no person shall on the grounds of race, color, nationality, origin, creed, religion, sex, marital status, age, or disability be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefit of, or otherwise be subjected to discrimination under any portion of the School-To-Work program.
Recommended Sequence:
Careers
(Required, one term)
Graduation Standard: Physical Education and Lifetime Fitness--Career Investigation
In keeping with the new emphasis on school-to-work planning in high school, this course is a first step toward expecting students to develop a portfolio in which they keep track of their skills, abilities, and interests. The goal is for all students to give serious thought to the future, their life work opportunities, and the education they will need to achieve their goals. The purpose of this class is to help the student begin the process of deciding on a future career. This will be accomplished through student exploration of the careers he or she is interested in, while also being exposed to such things as guest speakers, role playing, field trips, résumé writing, interviewing, and team work issues. Graduation Standards package offered: Decision-making--Career Investigation.
Nursing Assistant (Grades 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
This course is designed to prepare students for entry-level careers in health care under the supervision of a licensed nurse and is approved by the Minnesota Department of Health. It also provides a foundation for students seeking a career in any health or medical field. The nursing assistant program prepares individuals to work in long-term care nursing homes or hospitals. The course introduces concepts of basic human needs, the health-illness continuum, and focuses on preparing the student to demonstrate basic nursing skills. Students will also experience direct patient care at a clinical site. A student will have an opportunity to become a certified nursing assistant. Successful completion of this course enables the student to take the ASI Nurse Aide Competency Evaluation. After successfully completing the competency evaluation, the student will be placed on the Minnesota Department of Health Nursing Assistant Registry. This certificate is necessary for students to gain employment in long-term health care facilities. The course will be taught by Riverland Community College as part of the Post Secondary Enrollment Options Program and credit would also apply to other Allied Health Programs at the college.
Metals and Manufacturing: Youth Apprenticeship Program (Grades 11, 12)
(Two-year program&emdash;1,920 hours)
Students learn the following about machining operations:
A. Independently set up or fixture basic parts for machining, including indicating and squaring.
B. Read intermediate, dimensional drawings.
C. Understand use of more advanced measuring equipment.
D. Understand operation of engineering department to include:
--request for quotes
--quoting procedure
--design and detail drawings
--manufacturing planning
--material requirements planning (MRP)
--machine control programming
E. Independently set up or fixture intermediate parts for machining, including indicating and squaring.
F. Read advanced dimensional drawings, including metrics and geometric tolerances.
G. Build parts from simple sketches and verbal instructions, using experience to choose the best method and order of operation.
H. Set up and use drill press, mill, lathe, and grinder.
Youth Service Learning Project for Credit
(Prerequisite: Careers Class)
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Physical Education and Lifetime Fitness--Individual and Community Health
The State of Minnesota is encouraging school districts to develop a "Youth Service" component in the curriculum. Glenville-Emmons High School has done that. Any reading of public literature, newspapers, magazines, organizational newsletters, and the like will make people aware of the fact that there is a new wave of volunteerism sweeping the country. For young people, in particular, this is a challenge.
Studies have shown that when young people are involved in community service some very positive understanding of them occurs. Here are some examples:
Steps in the Process for Earning Credit
1. Any ideas that students have for volunteering will be considered. A combination of volunteer activities will also be accepted. A list of suggestions is available from the counselor.
2. To receive _ credit, a minimum of 90 hours (one semester) must be completed by the end of Semester 1 of the senior year. Students who plan now will easily complete the hours required. Current juniors may negotiate those hours if they can verify that they have done some hours of service during the past year.
3. Service completed must be verified by the individuals or volunteer organizations for which the work was done.
4. Students must keep a record and write a thorough report (with faculty guidance) which provides information about the service learning project(s) and evaluates the experiences gained from it/them. A review committee of faculty members will determine if the report is acceptable for credit.
5. Forms will be provided for registering the service learning project(s). These will be submitted to the counselor and the curriculum committee for approval.
Economics
Grade 12, Required
Graduation Standard: Buisness and Economics - Economic System
This course is an introduction to economics. It includes concepts of both Macroeconomics (the study of economics as it relates to the world) and Microeconomics (the study of economics as it relates to individuals and small businesses). It incorporates concepts in financing, including the influence of internal and external factors, including stock market implications, on corporate financial data and how this data is used to make long-term and short-term management decisions: traditional sources for securing financing: the relationships among price, market share, and profitability: personal financial resource management and how more individual wants and needs can be satisfied by wise consuer decision making: the functions of commercial paper, insurance, secured transactions, and bankruptcy: the role of credit and the impact of long-term and short-term credit: and different types of budget processes.
The mission of the health department is to teach students to choose healthy lifestyles that are characterized by a balanced sense of well-being physically, mentally, emotionally, socially, and spiritually. By doing so they will be more successful in their personal lives and in the work place.
Recommended: Grade 10
Health (Grade 10)
(Required, one term)
Graduation Standard: Physical Education and Lifetime Fitness: Individual/Community Health
The course presents information that promotes physical, mental, and social health. Areas of study include mental health, physical fitness, nutrition, personal hygiene, addiction prevention, sexuality and sex-related diseases, self-esteem, peer pressures, family issues, and CPR training.
Recommended Sequence:
** Algebra I and Geometry are recommended for selected courses.
Mechanical Drawing I (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
This course introduces the student to technical graphic communications. It is recommended for all students interested in engineering, technical areas, construction, manufacturing, and related careers. Mechanical Drawing begins with a study of drafting fundamentals that include: the use of instruments, shape description, centering and layout, working and pictorial drawings, section views, and auxiliary views.
Mechanical Drawing II (CAD) (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisites: Mechanical Drawing I; enrollment in or completion of Geometry is advised)
(Elective, one term)
This course will expand on practices learned in Mechanical Drawing I. Additional areas of study will include dimensioning, fasteners, and assembly. CAD will be utilized to do most of the drawings.
Woodworking I (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Mechanical Drawing I; understanding of fractions)
(Elective, one term)
Woodworking is designed to give the student an opportunity to develop a broad basic experience in the fundamentals of both hand tools and power machines, with particular emphasis on student participation in laboratory activities. The first half-term involves the use of a basic textbook and workbook. A written safety test on each machine is required to be passed. During the second quarter, students must complete a minimum of three required projects of their own choosing. The projects include a scroll saw project, a lathe project, and a small wood project utilizing as many power machines as possible. A working drawing, bill of material, and plan of procedure must be prepared and approved of before the construction of each project.
Woodworking II (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Mechanical Drawing I, Woodworking I)
(Elective, one term)
This course expands on what students learned in Woodworking I. Each student will be required to select and construct major woodworking project(s) of his/her own choosing. It is not necessary to create a large project; it must be within the students' abilities and budget. Selection, design, and planning of each project are to be considered as homework. This allows the students to utilize lab time more efficiently with actual hands-on experiences with machines and processes.
Building Trades/Carpentry (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Algebra is beneficial, but not required)
(Elective, one term)
The course covers aspects of residential construction such as site layout, footings and foundations, floor framing, wall and ceiling framing, roof framing, roofing materials, and estimating. Lab activities may range from building a scale model of a home to constructing a small utility shed.
Electricity I (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Algebra is beneficial, but not required)
(Elective, one term)
The course begins with a study of electron theory, Ohm's Law and the Power Law. Other areas covered are series, parallel, and combination circuits, career opportunities, electrical plans and symbols, tools, safety, electrical connections and components, cable types, and conduits. Approximately two weeks of the class are devoted to actual hands-on activities with lab boards and electrical test equipment that simulates common wiring practices.
Electricity II (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisites: Electricity I and Algebra)
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Technical Applications
This course will expand on what was learned in Electricity I. Areas of study will include estimating, applications and codes, controls, and three-phase. Electronic lab boards will also be used to introduce students to electronics.
Architectural Drafting (Grades 11, 12)
(Prerequisites: Completion of or enrollment in Mechanical Drawing I and II,
Building Trades/Carpentry, and Electricity would be beneficial)
(Elective, one term)
This course will cover blueprint reading, architectural design, and floor plan design. Students will be required to produce a set of house plans, which include plot plans, floor plans, elevation views, section views, detail views, and electrical plans.
Rough Carpentry (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
Nine weeks will be spent in rough carpentry construction. Students will have an opportunity to work on small building projects and to learn some fundamentals of carpentry. This course may be taught by the agriculture instructor.
Small Engines (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
The course, offered within the Agriculture Department, is a nine-week introduction to small gas engine technology. Units are taught on safety, theories of operation and the disassembly, assembly, and repair of a small gas engine. This course is taught through the Agriculture Department.
Welding Processes and Fabrication (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
The course is an introductory class, offered within the agriculture department. Units taught will be basic welding with arc and oxy-acetylene, metal fabrication, and safety. This course is taught through the Agriculture Department.
Creative Thinking I (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Algebra is recommended)
(Elective, one term)
Problem solving is developed with all students in mind. A high emphasis will be put on both individual thinking and cooperative learning skills to solve problems related to those found in modern day society and industry. This course is designed to motivate students by using everyday "hands-on" activities. Students will learn to recognize and isolate a problem, calculate a logical solution, and demonstrate their ability through application. In addition, the course will cover the areas of structure design, transportation, and communications.
Creative Thinking II (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Algebra is recommended)
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Technical Writing
Problem solving is developed with all students in mind. A high emphasis will be put on both individual thinking and cooperative learning skills to solve problems related to those found in modern day society and industry. This course is designed to motivate students by using everyday "hands-on" activities. Students will learn to recognize and isolate a problem, calculate a logical solution, and demonstrate their ability through application. Topics will be energy and power, materials and product design, & recycling and environmental impacts.
Students are required to take a minimum of three math courses for graduation. The courses are listed in the order required for success. Students may take as many of these courses as time permits. Depending on individual experiences, students may begin with Pre-Algebra or Algebra I. Students who have not passed the Basic Skills Test for the Graduation Rule will be assigned to an Applied Mathematics course to review for the test that they will take again in February of the enrolled school year. All students who graduate from Glenville-Emmons High School are expected to pass the Minnesota Graduation Rule Basic Skills Test.
Recommended Sequence:
Math Fundamentals (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Recommended for Basic Skills Test, one session)
Graduation Standard: Math Applications--Shape, Space, and Measurement
This course is designed for students who have not passed the Graduation Rule Test of Basic Skills. Concepts dealt with on that test will be the basis for the course.
Pre-Algebra (Grades 9, 10)
(Required or Elective as needed, one session)
Graduation Standard: Math Applications--Discrete Math
Students will build upon their mathematics skills and develop new skills and concepts specifically directed toward the study of algebra. Pre-Algebra is a prerequisite for Algebra. Areas of study include review of basic mathematics skills, operations with integers, solving equations, and factoring polynomials.
Algebra I (Grades 9, 10)
(Required, one session)
Graduation Standard: Math Applications--Technical Applications
Students will learn the structure and techniques in algebra and how to apply them to a variety of mathematical situations. Areas of study include operations with integers, solving equations and story problems, working with polynomials and factoring, operations and equations with algebraic fractions, solving inequalities and story problems, systems of open sentences in two variables, rational and irrational numbers, and quadratics.
Geometry (Grades 10, 11)
(Required or Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: Math Applications--Shape, Space, and Measurement
To make logical conclusions about geometric figures using inductive and deductive reasoning skills, students will study angles, parallel lines, congruence, similarity, circles, polygons, constructions, area volume, and coordinate geometry.
Algebra II (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one session)
Algebra II is a more in-depth study of algebra than Algebra I. It combines topics of Algebra I and Geometry into useful ideas for student to use in pre-college courses. Areas of study include inequalities, linear equations, factoring polynomials, solving fractional equations, irrational and complex numbers, quadratic equations, and matrices.
Consumer Math (Grades 11, 12)
(Required or Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: Business and Economics--Personal and Family Financial Management
In a recent nationwide survey, 79% of high school graduates said they were very dissatisfied with the education they received concerning personal financial matters. This course seeks to address those everyday and future money matters and ways to get the most out of our scarce dollars. Areas of study include maintaining a checkbook, investments, obtaining and using credit, insurance, financial institutions, stock markets, and bonds. Credit for mathematics is given for this course.
Advanced Algebra/Statistics (Grades 11, 12)
(Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: Math Applications--Chance and Data Handling
The addition of this course, taken after Algebra II, will better prepare students for the Advanced Math class and allow math teachers to treat algebra topics in more depth. Topics include polynomial functions, conic sections, exponential and logarithmic functions, probability, and statistics.
Advanced Mathematics (Grades 11, 12)
(Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: Math Applications--Algebraic Patterns
Advanced math is the most rigorous study of mathematics offered. This course is designed as a prerequisite to the first quarter of college calculus. Areas of study include graphing, maximum/minimum values, exponents, logs, trigonometry, calculator use, sequences, series, statistics, and probability.
The purpose of music education is to teach personal musicianship, teamwork, and appreciation for all forms of music. The ultimate aim is to cultivate life-long participation in musical activities, both as a performer and as a spectator.
Graduation Standard: Literary and Arts Creation and Performance
Band (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, year-round)
Personal musicianship, character, teamwork, and performance are stressed through the musical selections and activities accomplished both in and outside the classroom. This course is designed to help the student cultivate life-long participation in music and to prepare the college bound student for the demands of further study in the musical arts. Part of the course includes public performances at various times of the year (pep band, concert band, and marching band).
Jazz Band
(Select Group)
Choir (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, year-round)
Personal musicianship, character, teamwork, and performance are stressed through the musical selections and activities. Individual voice study is not available at this time. This course is designed to help the student cultivate life-long participation in vocal music and to prepare the college bound student for further study in music. Part of the course includes public performances at various times of the year. Students are expected to be present at performances.
The goal of physical education instruction is to encourage students to remain physically active and to engage in some activities that can be continued throughout their lives.
Recommended Sequence:
Physical Education (Grades 9, 10)
(Required, one term each grade)
Graduation Standard: Physical Education and Fitness
The major emphasis will be on active participation in the individual and team units that are offered. Students are expected to wear the appropriate clothing for class. Activities include the following:
|
President's Physical Fitness Challenge |
Cardiovascular Fitness and Awareness |
|
Archery |
Outdoor Survival |
|
Weight Training |
Bird Banding |
|
Bowling |
Cross-Country Skiing |
|
Tennis |
Snowshoeing |
|
Volleyball |
Roller Skating |
|
Basketball |
Table Tennis |
|
Softball |
Touch Football |
|
Frisbee Games |
Social Dance |
The mission of the science department is to introduce students to the world of science. Students study the processes of science through laboratory exercises and investigations. They learn fundamental concepts about all aspects of life and the natural world.
Recommended Sequence:
Physical Science (Grade 9)
(Required, one session)
Graduation Standard: Scientific Applications--Earth and Space Systems
This course is designed to acquaint the student with the processes of science. General topics of science will be covered with laboratory exercises and investigations to reinforce basic concepts. Areas of study include motion, work, energy, heat, waves, sound, light, color, electricity, magnetism, matter, atoms, chemical reactions, acids, bases, and organic chemistry.
Biology (Grade 10)
(Required, one session)
Graduation Standard: Scientific Applications--Concepts in Biology
In biology, the student will observe living things and investigate effects that other living things have on our lives and how they effect ours. Emphasis will be on mastering fundamental principles and the application of those principles to laboratory work. Areas of study include cytology, biochemistry, zoology, botany, ecology, genetics, evolution, microbiology, vertebrate, and invertebrate biology.
Advanced Biology (Grades 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Biology)
(Elective, one session)
This course will have greater emphasis on problem solving than Biology. It will have more laboratory time with individual biological research projects. Emphasis will be placed on problem set up, experimental design, and research conclusions. Areas of study include: freshwater biology, cell biology, plant research, animal research, bacteriology, DNA technology, and genetics.
Chemistry (Grades 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Biology)
(Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: Scientific Applications--Concepts in Chemistry
This course will include the study of the properties of atoms, molecules, chemical reactions, mass relations in chemical reactions, gas laws, and acid-based chemistry. The course will provide a basic background in chemistry with an emphasis on mathematical relationships and problem-solving technique. Areas of study include metric system, measurement, chemical formulas and equations, atomic theory, chemical bonding, ionization, reaction rates, and properties of solutions, gases, acids, and bases.
Physics (Grade 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Algebra II)
(Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: Scientific Applications--Concepts in Physics
Emphasis will be placed on problem solving. This course is designed to give the student a basic knowledge of physics and to introduce elementary laboratory procedures used in physics today. Areas of study include motion, work, heat, energy, light, sound, electricity, magnetism, force, wave motion, and atomic theory.
Environmental Science I (Grades 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Biology)
(Elective, one term)
The course is designed to provide students with a balanced approach to the diverse study of our environment. It provides students with the background needed to analyze for themselves many of the issues concerning our environment. The course includes both lectures and lab activities.
Environmental Science II (Grades 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Environmental Science I)
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Scientific Applications--Concepts in Environmental Science
The course is a continuation of Environmental Science I and the emphasis in on field activities and projects. Students will be expected to analyze environmental issues and come up with acceptable solutions to local and global problems. Most of the time will be spent on lab work and analysis.
Animal Science I (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Offered through the Agriculture Department)
(Elective, one session)
Students are introduced to the world of agriculture. Units will be taught in budgeting, record keeping, and swine science.
Animal Science II (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one session)
Students study more in-depth the units of budgeting and record keeping. Other units include beef and sheep science.
An effective social studies program must introduce students to the impacts on human beings of time and place, prepare students to identify, understand and work to solve the problems and controversial issues that face our increasingly diverse nation and the interdependent and evolving world. A major emphasis of the program is to develop democratic ideals, and to inform students about the rights and responsibilities of the individual in a democratic society.
Recommended Sequence:
Geography (Grade 9)
(Required, one session)
Graduation Standard: Inquiry&emdash;Social Science Processes: Human Geography
The course is a general study of the earth that entails different aspects of natural geography, history, technology, conservation, political science, government, economics, anthropology, and sociology. This study also includes emphasis on the general knowledge of locations and their relationships to other continents of the world. The goal of this course is to provide the student with the opportunity to interact with and study the five disciplines of geography: location, place, people, movement, and regions. Two graduation standards packages are offered: People and Cultures, Human Geography; and Inquiry&emdash;Social Science Processes.
World History (Grade 10)
(Required, one session)
Graduation Standard: Inquiry&emdash;World History and Cultures
The course includes a survey of ancient history, medieval history, the Reformation, 17th and 18th century Europe, the French Revolution and the Napoleonic years, and the 19th and 20th centuries through World War II.
American History (Grade 11)
(Required, one session)
Graduation Standard: Social Studies&emdash;Themes of U.S. History
The course covers the Civil War, the growth of the economy, relations between America and other nations, World Wars I and II, causes and effects of economic depression, events leading up to our involvement in the Vietnam War and its affects on the nation. Challenges we face in contemporary American society may also be part of this course.
American Government (Grade 12)
(Required, one term)
Graduation Standard: Social Studies: U.S. Citizenship
No matter what students may plan to do when they graduate from high school, their well-being will depend largely on how well they can cooperate with their fellow Americans to make democracy work. This course is devoted to studies in three areas: 1) to describe, analyze, and explain the American system of government, 2) to become an effective citizen in our democracy through the practice of leadership, and 3) to learn to live in a pluralistic society. Two graduation standards packages are offered: People and Cultures and U.S. Citizenship.
Advanced American Government
(Elective, one term)
This nine-week class is intended for students with a basic understanding of the government system in the United States. A prerequisite understanding of the concepts of democracy, the reasons behind founding of the United States, and the major themes of the Bill of Rights is expected of a student taking this class.
Subject matter covered in this course will include, but is not limited to; and in-depth examination of the U.S. Constitution, the electoral and legislative process, and the application of governmental policy to the world we live in.
Advanced Placement U.S. History
(one session)
The Advanced Placement (AP) course and examination in United States History are intended for qualified students who wish to complete studies in secondary school equivalent to college introductory courses in U.S. History.
The AP program in U.S. History is designed to provide students with the analytical skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in United States history. The program prepares students for intermediate and advanced college courses by making demands upon them equivalent to those made by full-year introductory college courses. Students should learn to assess historical materials - their revelance to a given interpretive problem, their reliability, and their importance - and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship. An AP U.S. History course should thus develop the skill necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an informed judgement and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format.
Economics (Grade 12)
(Required, one term)
Graduation Standard: Business and Economics--Economic Systems
This course covers the basics of both Macroeconomics (the study of economics as it relates to the world) and Microeconomics (the study of economics as it relates to individuals and small businesses). Time is spent applying these concepts to the stock market, markets, commodities, and a mock business. The graduation standard package "Economic Systems" is completed in this course.
Psychology (Grades 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
Students will deal with the basic science of psychology. The course will explore the various theories of behavior that should provide some insights into their own feelings and reasons for their behavior. Areas of study include a definition, psychological methods, human development, heredity and environment, understand personality, principals of learning, facing frustration and conflict, coping with stress, psychological disturbances, and treatment of psychological disturbances.
Sociology (Grades 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Social Studies--Institutions and Traditions in Society; OR Diverse Perspectives; Inquiry--Social Science Processes
Sociology is the study of human society, including social action and social organization. The course consists of reading, discussions, worksheets, and tests dealing with different aspects of society. We cover a wide variety of topics including: culture, deviance and crime, race and ethnicity, the family, education, religion, health and health care, and groups and organizations. We will also work on graduation standards dealing with sociological areas.
Current Events (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
The focus is on the world in which we live in today. Emphasis is placed on analyzing issues, seeking reliable and verifiable sources and being alert to bias in the news. Newspapers, magazines, and electronic media are the resources for this class.
History of Modern Warfare (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
Students will study the major military events of the twentieth century: World War I, World War II, the Korean Conflict, and the Vietnam War.
Myths and Legends (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
Why do myths and legends continue to thrive in a technologically advanced society? The history and development of myths and legends are examined in this class. The ways in which myths, legends, and fables have shaped our values, morals, and social practices are studied.
Native American Studies (Grades 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
Students receive a general overview of the historic and contemporary experiences of Native American peoples living in the United States. The course will challenge stereotypes and assumptions about the various groups who were settled here long before the Europeans came.
Mock Trial (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
(Elective, one term)
The legal trial process is studied in this class. Students will learn about law, why it is needed, how laws are made, and how the legal system works. They will also learn investigative techniques, pretrial preparation and trial procedures. They will participate in simulations of civil and criminal trials, which will allow them to play the roles of attorneys and witnesses. Students may have the opportunity to visit an actual trial. This course strengthens academic knowledge of law, government and the courts, builds basic and critical thinking skills, and enhances social skills, through teamwork, recognition of diversity, and professionalism.
Visual Art is the earliest known form of communication, and students of visual art will learn to comprehend the magnitude and the influence of art in our lives by researching, creating, and critiquing works of art which will create a deeper appreciation, admiration, and respect of the visual arts. The visual arts will be explored through history, the art principles, elements, techniques, various artists, and the discovery of one's self. Courses will be offered if there are enough students enrolled in the class. Students will be expected to purchase some supplies for all classes.
Recommended Sequence:
Introduction to Art
(Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: Inquiry--History of the Arts
Students will learn the purpose and scope of the visual arts, the basic fundamentals of design, basic techniques, and the methods, styles, and techniques of various artists. Students will be required to keep a notebook/journal and a portfolio. This class is a prerequisite for all other studio classes. The keeping of a portfolio is required.
Exploring World Civilizations Through Multicultural Crafts
(Elective, one term)
Graduation Standard: Literature and the Arts--Literary/Arts Creation/Performance
This is an introductory course to the history, significance, and cultural perspective of a variety of crafts. Some purchase of supplies will be required.
Drawing I
(Elective, one term)
Students will enhance their drawing skills by increasing awareness, honing observing skills, and practicing with a variety of materials, both conventional and unconventional. Students will also experience creating drawings from combining media. Various artists and their styles and techniques will be incorporated, as well as movements, styles, and periods of art.
Introduction to Sculpture
(Elective, one session)
Students will learn the two basic sculpture creating techniques; additive and subtractive, through the creation of sculpture in different media. Students will learn how to critique and actively participate in critiquing student work, how to effectively communicate through the unification of the design, the surface treatment, and the titling of an artwork.
Introduction to Commercial Art
(Elective, one term)
Students will learn to differentiate between commercial art and fine art, learn what it means to be camera ready, and paste up and layout. The students will create a variety of commercial art products such as advertisements, business cards, letterheads, business envelopes, posters, bumper stickers, brochures, logos, etc. Computers will be utilized in some projects. This class is labor and time intensive and client/project oriented.
Introduction to Watercolor
(Prerequisite: Drawing I)
(Elective, one term)
Students will create watercolor paintings by experiencing a variety of papers, paints, and techniques. The focus is learning to control the watercolor, and then creating personal works with the watercolor medium.
Introduction to Acrylic Painting
(Prerequisite: Drawing I)
(Elective, one term)
Acrylic painting will focus on the history of paint and painting, different artists, styles, movements, and techniques of painting. Impasto, hard edge, and color field are the main techniques learned in this class. Proper preparation, preservation, and clean-up will also be taught as well as framing, hanging, and displaying.
Introduction to Mural Painting
(Prerequisite: Drawing I)
(Elective, one term)
Students will learn the fundamentals of mural painting and have an opportunity to paint murals.
Introduction to Ceramics
(Elective, one term)
Students will learn the basic clay building techniques, vocabulary, preparation, glazing and finishing, along with the loading and firing of the kiln. A notebook/journal will be required to record sketches, glazes used, and for note taking.
Advanced Ceramics
(Prerequisite: Introduction to Ceramics)
(Elective, one term)
Students select most of the projects and the instructor facilitates. The basic techniques, vocabulary, and finishing information will already have been demonstrated in Ceramics I, allowing for the student to concentrate on using those skills to create more meaningful and personal works from clay.
As nations become increasingly interdependent, the need for effective communication and sensitivity to other cultures becomes more important. Today's youth must be culturally and linguistically prepared to participate in a global society. The mission of foreign language instructors is to encourage all students to study a foreign language. All students can benefit from foreign language instruction.
Required Sequence:
Spanish I
(Elective, one session)
Spanish I is an introduction to the study of a new language and to the culture of Spanish speaking countries. The objectives of this course involve a commitment to the development of the four skills &endash; speaking, listening, reading, and writing Spanish within the limits of beginning vocabulary and grammatical structure. The diversity among Spanish speaking peoples is explored. Activities incorporating the customs, traditions, culture, and backgrounds of Spanish speaking peoples are intertwined into each unit.
Spanish II
(Prerequisite: Spanish I)
(Elective, one session)
Spanish II is a continuation of Spanish I. After a review of structures learned in Spanish I, students will apply these to oral and written work. New verb tenses, vocabulary and grammar are introduced and practiced throughout the course. There is a more in-depth study of history, geography, and customs of the Spanish speaking countries. In addition to the text, Spanish language newspapers, magazines, and news videos are used.
Spanish III
(Prerequisite: Spanish I and II)
(Elective, one session)
Graduation Standard: World Languages
At this level, students will be able to complete the embedded high standard for world languages. In addition to the text's scope and sequence of syntax and grammar, enrichment is provided through inquiry units covering history through culture of Spanish speaking countries--to be explored through literature, arts, music, and technology. Materials used will include Spanish language newspapers, magazines, news videos, use of the internet, and a selection of short stories and classics such as Don Quixote.
Spanish IV
(Prerequisite: Spanish I, II, and III)
(Elective, one session)
Following the scope and sequence of the text, student-selected units will also be included to cover daily life, social customs, governmental policies, writings, publications, arts, music, and technology in Spanish speaking countries. Students at this level will also be able to earn a minimum of 15 service learning hours by developing and teaching Spanish lessons to the primary grades.