COURSE OFFERINGS FOR GRADES NINE & TEN

Required:

English I

This course is a study of the reading and writing process. Students will actively read and critique a variety of literary genres. Students will write for multiple purposes. Students will learn the appropriate grammar and style when speaking and writing.

English 2

This course includes a survey of multi-cultural literature as well as extensive development of composition and research skills. Grammar will be taught in the context of writing with a view toward sharpening editing and revision skills.

Algebra I

This course is a study of the foundation rules of higher mathematics. Algebra I is taught with a variety of methods and techniques to extend algebraic thinking and to engage student learning. Problem solving situations will provide students an environment that promotes connection to other disciplines and the real world. The appropriate use of technology is designed to sharpen the application and concept development skills of students.

Geometry

This course is a study of geometric figures, properties, thinking and reasoning. Students will see the relationships and connections geometry makes with many mathematical and real world situations.

Civics & American Government

This course is a study of national, state and local government. Students also learn the rights and responsibilities of citizenship. The three branches of government are explored in depth with emphasis on how the application and understanding of constitutional principles affect daily life in American society.

World History

This course is designed to provide students with knowledge of historical and cultural events that have contributed to global development. Students will be encouraged to read and apply historical concepts to develop projects and presentations

Physics

This course is a study of the physical world of energy and matter and how they are related. Students will learn that math is the “language” of physics. Students will develop their investigating and problem solving skills. They will also see the impact of science and physics in their daily lives.

Biology 1

This course is the study of plant and animal life. Students will learn a variety of biological and scientific concepts. Students will have the opportunity to learn many of these in a laboratory setting.

Freshman Seminar

This course is designed to help ninth graders with a variety of issues they will face in high school. It will be a very practical class where students learn how to study, how to get organized, how to prioritize their time and how to make responsible decisions. Students will also be involved in a number of writing and reading activities.

Electives

Creative Writing Dance

Public Speaking Spanish 1 & 2

Graphic Design French 1 & 2

Media Chinese 1

Physical Education Instrumental Music 1 & 2

Health Electronic Music

Body Building Art 1

Team Sports Drawing 1

Driver’s Education Ceramics 1

Digital Photography Media Art

Horticulture Fashion & Design

Construction Culinary

Creative Writing

Students will develop their writing skills by participating in writer’s workshops. Students will experiment with various prose and poetry formats while they learn techniques for prewriting, drafting, revising and publishing. Students will also have the opportunities to analyze the works of professional authors.

Public Speaking

This course is designed to give students experience in public speaking and oral interpretation. Students will develop poise and confidence before an audience. Students will learn and practice skills in a variety of speaking techniques.

Graphic Design

This course is an introduction to graphic design and multimedia. Students will experience the process of creating and developing original graphic images that have been electronically generated.

Media

This course is designed to give students the opportunity to create their own projects and programs on the computer. Students will do web and graphic design. They will be able to produce, publish and present topics using multimedia skills.

Physical Education

This course is a study of lifetime wellness and participation in a variety of activities. This participation is for a multitude of purposes. Students are taught how to balance healthy lifestyles with appropriate physical activity and good decision-making skills.

Health

This course is designed around situations that engage student discussion to analyze the internal and external influences on their health related decisions. This course helps students build the skills they need to protect, enhance and promote their own health and the health of others.

Body Building

This course is designed for the student who wants to obtain and/or maintain a higher level of fitness. Weight training, fitness and safety are the major topics emphasized.

Team Sports

This course provides the students with a variety of games related to team sports and tournament play. This enables students to demonstrate motor skills, knowledge of rules and game strategies for sports activities.

Driver’s Education

This course is designed to expose the students to the proper and safe method of driving. Students will learn the proper mental and mechanical skills that insure safe driving. Students will learn the laws that apply to highway and automobile safety. Field experiences are required.

Digital Photography

This course provides students the opportunity to learn the basic as well as the complex features of photography. Students will critique photography as an art form. Students will learn a variety of photographic techniques and procedures.

Horticulture

This course is for students who are interested in plants, flowers and gardens. Students will apply a basic knowledge of botany to horticultural procedures. Students will participate in lab and field experiences.

Construction

This course provides an overview of all aspects of the construction field. Students will learn some basic concepts in such areas as plumbing, electricity, carpentry and painting. Students will be given opportunities to pursue individual projects. Field experiences will be required.

Dance

This course introduces students to the basic principles of rhythm and movement. This course improves fitness through running, exercise and aerobic-type dancing. Students are given opportunities to express themselves in a variety of creative ways.

Spanish I

This course is an introductory study of the Spanish language and culture. Students will learn to read, write, speak and understand basic Spanish. Students will also become acquainted with the life styles of Spanish speaking people.

Spanish 2

This course is a continuation of Spanish 1. Students will expand their vocabulary and build on the grammar and skills previously learned. Communication in Spanish is stressed with added emphasis on reading and writing skills.

French I

This course is an introductory study of the French language and culture. Students will learn to read, write, speak and understand basic French. Students will also become acquainted with the life styles of French speaking people.

French 2

This course is a continuation of French 1. Students will expand their vocabulary and build on the grammar and skills previously learned. Communication in French is stressed with added emphasis on reading and writing skills.

Chinese 1

This course is an introductory study of the Chinese language and culture. Students will learn to read, write, speak and understand basic Chinese. Students will also become acquainted with the life styles of Chinese speaking people.

Instrumental Music 1

This course is for any student who plays an instrument and would like to be part of a performing group. Students will have opportunities to develop and improve their instrumental music skills and techniques. They will also learn and understand the practice and discipline required to perform.

Instrumental Music 2

This course is for students who already play instruments and want to further their expertise. Students will continue to develop their performance skills and expand their knowledge learned in previous music classes. Students will be expected to perform at various school functions.

Electronic Music

This course is for students who possess a high degree of independence and responsibility. Students will develop projects and compositions that demonstrate a competent knowledge of musical principles as well as graphic and technological skills. Students will be expected to present and perform.

Art 1

This course provides a solid foundation in the principles and understanding of art. Students will work with the basic elements of art to create projects using a variety of techniques. Students will explore different types of media throughout the year.

Drawing 1

This course extends the drawing instruction that was given in Art 1. Students will explore areas such as figure drawing, nature and still life using pencil, charcoal, pen, ink and pastels. Students will examine more closely the elements of line, form, value and texture.

Ceramics 1

This course is designed to expose the student to multi-dimensional learning opportunities. Students will experience a variety of pinch, coil and slab constructions. Student projects will reflect and synthesize the issues of function, decoration and beauty.

Media Art

This course provides a practical application of art and technology. Students will develop projects that reflect the understanding of artistic and graphic principles. Emphasis will be placed on the expressive and creative nature of graphic presentations.

Fashion and Design

This course allows students to learn the design process from beginning to end. Students will learn initial design, research, fashion trends, clothing construction, fabric selection, production and marketing. Students will create and design a variety of projects.

Culinary

This course introduces students to the basics of cooking and food preparation. Students will learn how to select and store food properly. They will learn how to plan and prepare a menu as well as how to use kitchen equipment and utensils. Field experiences will be required.