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24/25 Academic Planning Guide
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Greetings Grizzly Community,

One of the most important times in a high school student’s career is once again upon us. Students will soon begin to register for courses for the next school year, a process that with purposeful planning, has the ability to shape futures. Students who find the most value in this process are very intentional in analyzing their interests, seek ways to connect their current learning with future careers/post-graduation goals and choose courses that meet those ends. For these students, the question “what am I going to do when I graduate?” yields exciting possibilities.

As you approach the registration process for next year, we believe it is best practice for you to start with the end in mind, your future career. As you read this, you may not know what your interests are, or you may not have yet considered career opportunities. If you find yourself pondering this, we have many supports and tools to help you.  Start by visiting your counselor and exploring the TRHS counseling webpage. There are a variety of tools, including your Grizzly Grad Plan, Road trip Nation, and College Board's "Big Future" tools, that will help you explore and identify your interests and tie those interests to potential careers. Use the following guide to log into Naviance - username: your student email address, password: Dcsdstudentlunchnumber or, #MMDDYYYYDcsd (email your counselor if you have login issues). Once you identify a potential future career, use the Academic Planning Guide to chart a course that will connect current learning/courses with your future career path. The Four-Year Graduation Worksheet in Infinite Campus can also help you plan by connecting your course selections to your post-graduation career objective(s).

As you begin the course registration process for the upcoming school year, we recommend that you invest an appropriate amount of time to align your course selections with your post-graduation objective(s). Please see the TRHS website (Academics → Academic Planning Guide) for specific course descriptions and details. Additionally, be mindful of any prerequisites that may be needed for your class(es) of choice. We look forward to partnering with you through this process. Below is a brief checklist to consider as you move forward in this process.

Fundamental steps to consider during course registration:

As you begin to choose courses for the next school year and beyond, please know the ThunderRidge staff is your partner. Our counselors, teachers, and administrators have a wealth of information and expertise to support you through this process. We look forward to helping you along this journey!

TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

ACADEMIC AND GENERAL INFORMATION

LIST OF COURSES

ENGLISH (ENG)

MATH (MAT)

SCIENCE (SCI)

SOCIAL STUDIES (SST, AMH, GVT,)

FINE ARTS (FNA): Visual Art

FINE ARTS (FNA): PERFORMING ARTS: MUSIC

FINE ARTS (FNA): PERFORMING ARTS:  THEATRE

PRACTICAL ART (PRA): BUSINESS and MARKETING

PRACTICAL ART (PRA): COMPUTER & MULTIMEDIA TECHNOLOGY

PRACTICAL ART (PRA): FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCE (FCS)

PRACTICAL ART (PRA): ENGINEERING

PRACTICAL ART (PRA): CTE INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY

PHYSICAL & HEALTH EDUCATION (PHY)

WORLD LANGUAGE

ELECTIVES

SPECIAL EDUCATION &

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)

INTERVENTION COURSES

HOW TO USE THIS GUIDE

We hope this guide will help you and your parents develop a comprehensive four-year plan that will prepare you to meet the needs of your post-secondary goals. During your high school career, you should review your educational and post-secondary goals, thoughtfully developing a program of study that will help you achieve these goals.

Graduation requirements are designed to give you a balanced program that will help you develop the skills and understanding necessary to become a well-educated person. To help round out your course of study, a wide range of electives are available. These, if wisely selected, will help you explore and develop your own interests and abilities.

The most important factor as you begin the process of selecting your “program of study” for the year is the simple idea that you will change and grow as a result of your experiences at school. You need to recognize the types and variety of resources available to you in order to use these resources wisely. Decision-making is one of the most critical skills to develop and practice. Take full advantage of the information in this manual and the advice available to you from your parents, teachers, and counselors.

Create your class schedule with your future in mind. Create a long-range academic plan and update it every year. If you have questions about the types of courses you should schedule in order to be eligible for a particular career field or a specific type of college or university, consult your counselor, use the Naviance program or come to the Post-Graduate Center in the Counseling Office. Your current teachers may be especially helpful.

Choose a full schedule of classes that fulfill your goals and align with your interests. A full schedule is a minimum of 7 courses for freshmen, 6 for sophomores and juniors, and 5 for seniors. Students who do not choose a full schedule may find themselves in courses that have been chosen for them. We will make every effort to accommodate your elective course choices, but there may be instances when your choice conflicts with a core class or the elective classes are full and we may choose an elective for you. Scheduling priority will be given to senior students who need to fulfill graduation requirements.

Please review this catalog carefully and consult your counselor with concerns before making final course selections. Your counselor is a resource for academic programs and other learning needs. Consult your current content area teacher about the demands of advanced and honor courses. Refer to this course guide for pre-requisite courses, fees, and general course description requirements to assist you in completing your Multi-Year Academic Plan (MYAP) found on your IC portal account under Academic Planner.  Please make your course decisions carefully because the number of teachers, courses, and sections offered are based on course selections of the entire TRHS student body. No schedule changes will be made after courses are selected and scheduled.


ACADEMIC AND GENERAL INFORMATION

STUDENT CODE OF CONDUCT

ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

The community at ThunderRidge is committed to producing principled students who act with integrity and honesty. Academic integrity is considered the commitment to principled academic conduct. Click here for more information.

VIOLATIONS OF ACADEMIC INTEGRITY

Violations are considered academic misconduct that results in any student gaining unfair advantages in an assignment and/or assessment. Academic misconduct includes, but is not limited to plagiarism, collusion, and duplication of Work. Click here for more information.

COMPLAINT RESOLUTION (STUDENT/PARENT CONCERNS ABOUT A TEACHER)

ThunderRidge High School believes that a key to student success is a strong working relationship between student and teacher.  With this in mind, we also recognize that sometimes conflict or misunderstanding can occur in the context of the classroom. Conflict can be uncomfortable, but creates opportunities for growth for all parties involved when we are able to take a collaborative approach to the solution. To successfully work through issues, we use a Restorative Practice approach. The program has a recognized power to repair and strengthen relationships while producing positive outcomes with both parties understanding the needs of the other. Click here for more information.

ASSESSMENT

The guiding principles of our assessment policy are flexibility and accountability. Our philosophy, rooted in the characteristics of the Learner Profile, values the dynamic, the personal, and the authentic in education. Teachers, in the context of their classrooms, create meaning and provide opportunities for the creation of meaning. Assessments enable teachers to describe student learning and ongoing interactions, which emerge within the context of their classroom. Students, teachers, and parents benefit from consistent encouragement of academic growth through purposeful and consistent formative and summative assessment practices. Click here for more information.

INCLUSION

ThunderRidge High School is fully committed to its role in supporting all students. We encourage all students to explore the many learning opportunities at the school. We believe in guiding students as they find their personal strengths in order to support growth in their learning. It is our responsibility as educators to ensure that all students are provided access to a Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE). We believe that students in need of learning support deserve an inclusive environment that provides access to those supports.  ThunderRidge strives to create a community of learners invested in their academic, social, and emotional growth. ThunderRidge High School offers a needs-based program that evolves and changes to meet the unique needs of our students and aligns with federal and state guidelines and regulations. Click here for more information.

LANGUAGE

ThunderRidge believes that literacy is a fundamental right for all human beings. ThunderRidge High School educators promote literacy as a process and offer an education that will provide continued access to the world of ideas. It is our responsibility as educators to not only impart information but to also promote a literate society. Click here for more information.


SCHEDULE REPAIRS AND COURSE DROP

SCHEDULE REPAIRS

Teacher schedules, room assignments, and hiring of new teachers are decided based on student course selections. Students are encouraged to make course selections carefully, as NO schedule changes will be allowed unless your request meets the following criteria:

DROPPING CLASSES

If a student drops or adds a course within the first ten days of the class, there is no grade point average penalty. If a student drops a course after ten days of the class, the transcript will note an “F”, unless there is an approved level change by the school administration.

All students must/are required to take a minimum of 5 in-person classes at all times (with the exception of district approved Career and Technical and/or Concurrent Enrollment courses).

REPEATING A COURSE (Grade Replacement)

A student may retake a course with permission of an administrator by filling out the appropriate “Grade Replacement” form which may be picked up from the Counseling Office. Records of both classes, including letter grade, will remain on the student’s transcript with the first showing “course repeated,” but only the second will be factored into the GPA. No credit will be awarded to the first class. Failure to complete the ‘Repeat Course’ form will result in grades for both courses calculated into the student's GPA.

TRANSFER OF GRADES DURING SEMESTER

Students entering TRHS with withdrawal grades from the sending school will have their grades accepted by the receiving teachers. This will apply to all coursework that can be matched with TRHS courses. For example, a mathematics grade will be averaged with the mathematics grade earned at TRHS.

INCOMPLETE (I) GRADE PROCESS

SEMESTER I 

Students receiving a grade of ‘Incomplete’ (I) have 10 days into the new semester to turn in assignments or take the final exam*. Teachers grade assignments and/or final exams after the 10 day window and submit a grade change form to the Registrar. Teachers will communicate with parents and students the consequences for missing assignments and/or final exams. If a student does not complete the final assignment(s)/test, grades will be calculated with zero and reflected on the student’s transcript.

SEMESTER II

Students receiving a grade of ‘Incomplete’ (I) have 10 days past the start of summer school session I to turn in assignment/s or take final exams per teacher instructions.* Prior to summer break, teachers provide their administrator with the answer key to grade assignments/final exam in the teacher’s absence. Teachers will communicate with parents and students the consequences for missing assignments and/or final exams. If a student does not complete the final assignment(s)/test, grades will be calculated with zero and reflected on the student’s transcript.

*Students receiving Incomplete grade for medical reasons will be given an extension beyond the ten day window with physician documentation.

WEIGHTED & REGULAR GRADING

Regular courses award the student four points for an A, three points for a B, two points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F. Weighted courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F. Honors courses are not weighted. At this time, the following courses have weighted grade values:

UNWEIGHTED

(REGULAR COURSES)

WEIGHTED

(AP & IB COURSES)

A

4.0

A

5.0

B

3.0

B

4.0

C

2.0

C

3.0

D

1.0

D

1.0

F

0

F

0

The grade point average (GPA) is based on letter grades earned for courses taken in the ninth, tenth, eleventh and twelfth grades. The GPA is calculated at the end of each semester and made cumulative for purposes of reporting to the student, employers and colleges.

ThunderRidge High School has been authorized to offer the IB Diploma as an IB World School. For more information on the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme, please visit the TRHS IB Website.

ThunderRidge High School offers a wide range of advanced courses across all curricular areas. Both International Baccalaureate and Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. These courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. IB and AP courses require independent work outside the classroom. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of IB and AP courses. Students should consult their counselor or current content area teacher to gain an understanding of the level of work and time commitment involved in an IB or AP course.

As with all courses, students should make their course selections carefully as they will not be allowed to drop an AP or IB course after they have signed up. IB students must commit to a minimum of their junior year. Year-long courses may not be dropped at semester. Students are expected to take the AP exams in May, and IB exams are an essential part of the IB Diploma Programme. Many colleges will award credit or advanced standing based upon test scores.

* To earn credit in a class, students must demonstrate proficiency on the Content Standards embedded in the course. Documentation that these standards have been achieved will be through teacher judgment based on District assessments, end-of-course tests or other measurements as well as meeting other stipulated course expectations.  Students who do not achieve these standards will be enrolled in courses or programs as prescribed by the school principal and faculty.

ACADEMIC LETTERING

To earn a letter in academics, students must have an unweighted cumulative GPA of 3.75 for the previous three semesters, and have attended TRHS the previous two semesters. Due to the three semester requirement, students can only qualify to receive two Academic Letters throughout their career at ThunderRidge.

ACADEMIC ACCESS

Academic Access is an instructional period that is built into the schedule to give students time to make-up work and to receive additional instructional assistance.

The Academic Access program is designed to provide the following four key components that each focus on supporting and increasing student learning:

SEMINAR

Seminar is a built-in class that continues with the same teacher and classmates throughout each student’s time at ThunderRidge. Seminar is designed to:

ADVISEMENT CLASS

Advisement classes are designed as intentional, structured time to work with students on a variety of grade level skills, activities, and assignments provided by the grade level team leads and administrators. Students can also use the second half of Advisement to meet with teachers for further academic support or test completion.

PERSONAL PROJECT

Tenth grade students will complete a Personal Project, which is introduced in October and completed by April. The Personal Project is designed to help students recognize the power in taking ownership of learning, and to validate the importance of their personal interests. Additionally, the project encourages students to set their own goals and reflect on growth.

DCSD GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

Credits

COURSE

CREDITS

SUBJECT AREAS

LANGUAGE ARTS

4.0

Four English/language arts credits

SOCIAL STUDIES

3.0

District required credits include:

  • 1.0 credit of U.S. History and or World History
  • 0.5 credit of U.S. Government
  • 1.5 additional credits of social studies elective

SCIENCE

3.0

Three science credits

MATHEMATICS

3.0

Three math credits, one of which must include Algebra I or higher.

PRACTICAL ARTS

1.0

  • Business
  • Family and Consumer Science (FCS)
  • Computers
  • Level III and/or IV of World Language
  • Career and Technical Education (CTE)

FINE ARTS

1.0

  • Art
  • Level III and/or IV of World Language
  • Music (Instrumental or Vocal)
  • Theatre Arts

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

1.0

A health class can be used to meet one-half of this requirement.

ELECTIVE CREDITS

8.0

General elective courses

MINIMUM TOTAL CREDITS*

24

Through careful course selection and cooperation between the student and their counselor, a student will be able to pursue a career goal and still have time for other course offerings without excluding any particular area of study.

All students must/are required to take a minimum of 5 in-person classes at all times (with the exception of district approved Career and Technical and/or Concurrent Enrollment courses).

COMMUNITY SERVICE GUIDELINES

To successfully meet DCSD Community Service requirements, students must log 20 hours of volunteer work in service to persons/groups outside of the familiar environment of their own homes. The activity must meet the DCSD Guidelines listed below and must be verified by the supervisor of the activity on the required form. Completion of this requirement will be noted on the transcript and all hours turned in to ThunderRidge will be documented for college, scholarship, employment, or agencies requesting verification of volunteer service as it pertains to the benefit of the student.

ACCEPTABLE VOLUNTEER HOURS

UNACCEPTABLE VOLUNTEER HOURS

Competency

Beginning with the class of 2022, in addition to satisfying the district's graduation requirements outlined above, students will also be required to demonstrate college and career readiness via one of the approved methods in the chart below to receive a diploma from DCSD. Students must provide documentation of meeting or exceeding the required level of readiness in both mathematics and reading, writing and communicating, through one of the following:

METHOD

ENGLISH

MATH

ACCUPLACER

70

61

ACT

18

19

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)

2

2

ARMED SERVICES VOCATIONAL APTITUDE BATTERY (ASVAB)

31

31

CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT (CE)

Passing Grade

Passing Grade

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)

4

4

SAT

470

500

DISTRICT CAPSTONE

English IV/Economics or Personal Finance

English IV/Economics or Personal Finance

College and career demonstrations necessary to earn a standard high school diploma may be adjusted to accommodate English learners, gifted students and students with disabilities.

SENIOR PROJECT

The ThunderRidge High School Senior Project is a cumulative evaluation instrument to validate a senior student’s ability to research from a variety of media, write an analytical paper, design and complete a project, and teach others about the project in a formal presentation. The Senior Project is a TRHS graduation requirement for all students.

EARLY GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

  1. Why does the student plan to graduate early?
  2. How will the student follow through with early graduation?
  3. A detailed plan of action for after a diploma has been awarded.
  4. The post-graduate institution in which the student will attend after early graduation.
  5. Proof of admittance to a post-secondary institution.

If the student meets all the above requirements, and understands that colleges like students to complete four full years of high school before admitting new students to the institution of higher learning. Early graduation can be considered detrimental in the decision of admitting or declining a new student to that institute of higher learning.

COLLEGE ENTRANCE REQUIREMENTS

Four-year colleges in Colorado know that academic preparation, especially in English and math, will make you more likely to be successful in college. The Higher Education Admission Recommendations (HEAR) detail the number of high school courses in each subject area. It is recommended you complete these courses to be a competitive candidate for admission—see the chart below.

If you have challenged yourself by successfully completing Honors, AP, IB, or college-level courses in high school, this will strengthen your application even more!

Additionally, if you successfully completed a capstone project or some other alternative form of education at your high school, colleges will consider it under your academic preparation review, provided it is included on your high school transcript.

It is difficult to generalize about college entrance requirements. Since each college has its own selection process and the competition for admission is so intense at many colleges, it is also very difficult to predict a student’s chances of admission. However, colleges are generally looking for students who have consistently challenged themselves academically and who have proven their capabilities for rigorous studies by achieving quality grades in high school.

Academic Area

Recommended Number of Units (college requirements)

English

4 Units

*Mathematics

4 Units

Natural Science

3 Units

Social Science

3 Units

World Language

1 Unit

Academic Electives

2 Unit

TOTAL

17 Minimum  number of units

One unit = one year of a high school course. If you are taking a college level course while in high school, one semester = one unit.

*Currently, the HEAR math recommendation is that students should complete up through Algebra 2. However, some college programs require freshman students to be ready for calculus. If you know which program or area of study you wish to pursue in college, contact the admissions or academic advising office at the institution you are considering for specific information.

Colleges place the greatest emphasis on the student’s high school transcript. This official document includes an indication of the depth and breadth of the courses taken (curriculum), the semester grades received in those courses (achievement), a comparison with other students (grade point average and class rank), and a measure of ability and aptitude to indicate predicted success (test scores). Patterns of consistency, steady improvement, or declining achievement can also be readily seen on the transcript. The following are the five key ingredients in the college admission process:

COLLEGE/UNIVERSITY CURRICULUM

The college core course work requires at least four years of English, and three years of mathematics (including Algebra I and Geometry), science, and social studies. At least two units of a foreign language are also strongly recommended. These guidelines should be considered minimal, and most students take more academic courses than these basic recommendations. Four year Colorado universities require four years of mathematics and most will be looking for Algebra II on the student’s transcript. Many colleges may require additional courses in the academic fields and may also have specific curriculum requirements for admission and certain majors. Colleges take into consideration the level of courses taken, the overall strength of the student’s curriculum, and the broad-based foundation needed to continue in future academic endeavors.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. These courses require work outside the classroom, during breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an AP course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have registered and courses are scheduled. One-year AP courses can not be dropped at semester. Students are also expected to take the AP national exams in May (approximately $98 per exam).

Career and Technical Education courses provide quality educational programs emphasizing core academic content, Post-secondary & Workforce Readiness (PWR) competencies, technical skills, and seamless transition to further education or employment and better prepare students, including special populations to meet challenges of the workforce, economic development, and emerging occupations.

Concurrent Enrollment (CE)/Arapahoe Community College (ACC) courses

Data from the Colorado Department of Higher Education and the Colorado Community College System show over 90% of students who take Concurrent Enrollment courses pass with a C or better. Review the Annual Report on Concurrent Enrollment in Colorado for more information.

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a junior and senior year high school program focused on developing globally minded students. It is an internationally recognized, rigorous, two-year curriculum, which prepares students to enter college and life with excellent academic and leadership skills.  IB Diploma Candidates complete a balanced series of courses and capstone assignments over the course of their junior and senior years, under the guidance of the IB Diploma Coordinator. Students take IB Exams in May (approximately $119 per exam). Successful completion of IB Diploma courses and exams result in the IB Diploma, an internationally recognized certificate of accomplishment. Students may also enroll in individual IB courses and sit for IB Exams as “Course Students.”

SAMPLE ADMISSION CRITERIA FOR COLLEGE ENTRANCE

Below are the five major factors upon which college admission is based:

  1. Quality of courses
  2. Grades earned in these courses and resulting grade point average (GPA) and class rank (rank)
  3. ACT and/or SAT test scores
  4. Activities both in and out of school
  5. Letters of recommendation when appropriate

Admission requirements to colleges and universities vary greatly. Students should seek information about the colleges or universities they are interested in attending to determine the exact requirement. Catalogs may be obtained from the college and many are available in the high school post-graduate or counseling center.

ACHIEVEMENT

Grades are still the best predictor of academic success in college. The more recent the grades, the stronger indicator they are. While other factors may help compensate for deficiencies in grades, top grades can eliminate doubts about a student’s ability to achieve in the academic area.

TEST SCORES

Colleges also rely on a student's American College Test (ACT) or the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) scores to help make their admissions decisions. While some colleges may have set cut-off scores, most will combine the test scores with the other factors in order to determine admission eligibility. Students should check which tests are required for the colleges to which they are applying. Some colleges may also require SAT subject tests, which are achievement tests in specific subjects for admission or placement purposes.

EVALUATIONS

Some colleges might require or recommend written teacher and counselor evaluations. These evaluations are used to substantiate the level of a student’s integrity, judgment, reliability, motivation, initiative, leadership, character, and other personal traits. An applicant's chances for admission may be enhanced by the comments from those who know that student well. Ideally, teacher evaluations should come from core teachers from the student's junior or senior year. Students also may be required to submit an essay. Even if not required, an essay may strengthen a student’s application package.

INVOLVEMENT

Participation in school and community activities such as clubs, athletics, music, government, religious organizations, work experiences, and volunteer opportunities may also be valued by the colleges. The quality of involvement, leadership, commitment, and diversity of interests are what often separate the top candidates for the most highly selective colleges.

Visit your Naviance account and the ThunderRidge Counseling Department PostGrad website for more information on: Scholarship websites, financial aid websites, multi-use websites, standardized testing websites, college fairs and more.

ADDITIONAL POST-SECONDARY OPTIONS

COMMUNITY COLLEGES

Community colleges offer Associate Degree and Certificate programs to prepare students for transfer to other colleges or for direct entry into the workforce. Examples: Arapahoe Community College, Community College of Denver.

Requirements: High school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate or at least 16 years old and not attending high school or enrolled in Post-Secondary Education Options; placement tests.

 

APPRENTICESHIPS

Apprenticeships are generally four-year programs offering journeyman Certificates and Associate's Degrees. Apprentices receive paid on-the-job training and enroll in technical courses at community colleges. Examples: Colorado Contractors Association. General Education Development (GED) certificate; at least 17 years old; pre-qualifying tests; interviews. Some programs will consider grade point averages in their selection procedures.

TECHNICAL COLLEGES

Technical Colleges offer Associates and Bachelors Degrees for students who wish to begin a career immediately after the specialized training. Examples: Westwood College of Technology, DeVry University.

Requirements: High school diploma or General Education Development (GED) certificate; at least 17 years old; GPA of at least 2.0; some programs may require ACT or SAT scores; placement exams.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Q: Will completion of the pre-collegiate course requirement as part of finishing my high school requirements guarantee my admission to a four-year college or university in Colorado?

A:  No. The pre-collegiate course requirement is an addition to the CDHE Admissions Standards Policy for public higher education institutions. All four-year public institutions in Colorado have selective admission requirements articulated in the Admissions Standards Policy. Colleges and universities may have institutional admissions requirements that go beyond the pre-collegiate courses and the selective admissions standards established for each institution. Students are advised to work closely with the admissions staff at the college/university of choice for complete information about admission requirements. Keep in mind that all two-year colleges in Colorado have open admissions policies. The pre-collegiate admissions requirements do not apply to students entering a community college or to students entering Metropolitan State College of Denver if they are 20 years old or older.

Q:  I have a disability. Will I have to complete the pre-collegiate admissions requirements?

A:  Yes. The pre-collegiate course requirements and the selective admissions standards will be factors in the admission decision for all students, even if an identified disability has resulted in a modified high school curriculum. In accordance with Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973 (Section 504) and Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990 (Title II), Colorado’s collegiate institutions do not discriminate on the basis of the presence of a disability. However, to qualify for academic accommodations at a postsecondary institution, students with disabilities must first meet the institution’s “essential admissions requirements.” The pre-collegiate curriculum constitutes an essential admission requirement. For more information about federal guidelines regarding students with disabilities in the college/university setting, go to http://www.ed.gov/about/offices/list/ocr/transition.html.

Q: What options do I have if I haven’t completed the pre-collegiate course requirements and I graduate in spring 2008 or later?

A: You have at least three. You may qualify for admission to a Colorado public four-year institution even if you haven’t completed the prescribed pre-collegiate courses. Institutions may make an exception and admit a specific percentage of students based on criteria other than the pre-collegiate Admissions Requirements and the CDHE freshmen index. A second option is to enroll in a community college, all of which have open admissions, and, after successfully completing a college- level course in each of the four academic areas (i.e., English, mathematics, natural science, and social science), apply for admission to a four-year public institution as a transfer student. Finally, CCHE will identify assessment options by June 2006, which you may substitute for specific courses of the pre-collegiate Admissions Requirements once they are adopted by the Commission.

Q:  Who do I contact if I’m unsure if a course will fulfill a pre-collegiate requirement?

A:  Contact the counseling office at your school for specific course advice. Also check the CDHE website periodically for an expanded list of courses that will meet the pre-collegiate criteria.

Q:  What are some other things I should do while I’m in high school to prepare me for college?

A:  Do your best in your classes. Keep in mind that most colleges give preference to students who challenge themselves throughout high school over those who take easier classes and get a higher grade point average. Explore whether you want to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses or pursue an International Baccalaureate diploma program. You may also want to enroll for dual credit classes that allow you to earn college credit while in high school through the Post-Secondary Enrollment Options Program. Your school counselor can provide you with details on each of these opportunities. Get involved in activities such as clubs, music, sports, and/or volunteer work. When you have an opportunity, try some leadership roles in these activities.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CLASSES

The key to college success can be linked to whether students used their high school years to take advanced courses. Further, a US Department of Education study found that the strongest predictor of college graduation is participation in rigorous, college-level courses while still in high school—and AP courses in particular.

AP provides students with the experiences, strategies, skills, and habits of mind to help them be successful in post-secondary pursuits. An added benefit of taking AP courses is that academic performance in college prep courses such as AP has been consistently rated as the top factor in admission decisions in recent NACAC Admission Trends Surveys.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an AP course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after courses are scheduled. Weighted courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F. Prepare yourself now for college success and register for AP!

CAREER & TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE)

CTE courses provide quality educational programs emphasizing core academic content, Postsecondary & Workforce Readiness (PWR) competencies, technical skills, and seamless transition to further education or employment and better prepare students, including special populations to meet challenges of the workforce, economic development, and emerging occupations.

Colorado CTE programs are divided into six industry sectors:

1. Agriculture, Natural Resources & Energy

2. STEM, Arts, Design & Information Technology

3. Skilled Trades & Technical Sciences

4. Health Science, Criminal Justice & Public Safety

5. Hospitality, Human Services & Education

6. Business, Marketing & Public Administration

More than 5,000 community and business leaders serve on advisory committees and councils supporting CTE programs.

CAREER AND TECHNICAL STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS

CTSOs help students build leadership skills, promote positive work values, and reinforce the CTE curriculum. Nine CTE student organizations include: DECA, FBLA, FCCLA, FFA, HOSA, PBL, (SC)2, SkillsUSA, and TSA. In 2017-2018, more than 32,000 students participated in CTE student organizations as state affiliated members.

CONCURRENT ENROLLMENT (CE): ARAPAHOE COMMUNITY COLLEGE (ACC), METRO STATE UNIVERSITY (MSU)

*Students enrolled in courses must be concurrently enrolled in ACC or MSU**

Data from the Colorado Department of Higher Education and the Colorado Community College System show over 90% of students who take Concurrent Enrollment courses pass with a C or better. Check out the Annual Report on Concurrent Enrollment in Colorado for more information.

Earning college credit while in high school helps you:

INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE DIPLOMA PROGRAMME

The International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme is a junior and senior year high school program focused on developing globally minded students. It is an internationally recognized, rigorous two-year curriculum, which prepares students to enter college and life with excellent academic and leadership skills.  IB Diploma Candidates complete a balanced series of courses and capstone assignments over the course of their junior and senior years, under the guidance of the IB Diploma Coordinator. Students sit for IB Exams in May (approximately $119 per exam). Successful completion of IB Diploma courses and exams result in the IB Diploma, an internationally recognized certificate of accomplishment. Students may also enroll in individual IB courses and sit for IB Exams as “Course Students.”


READING A COURSE DESCRIPTION

Below is a breakdown of icons and/or titles you will see in this guide to help you determine which course/s are the right ones for you.

List of Courses

ENGLISH 

ACC English Comp I(ENG 121) - sem

ACC Intro to Lit. (LIT 115) - sem

AP Language & Comp.- (1yr)

AP Literature & Comp.- (1yr)

English I - (1yr)

English I Honors - (1yr)

English II - (1yr)

English II Honors - (1yr)

English III - (1yr)

English IV - (1yr)

IB English HL I - (1yr)

IB English HL II - (1yr)

MATH 

ACC College Algebra (MAT1340)

ACC College Trig (MAT1420)

ACC Intro to Stats (MAT1260)

Algebra I - (1yr)

Algebra I Part 1 - (1yr)

Algebra I Part 2 - (1yr)

Algebra II/Trig - (1yr)

Algebra II/Trig Honors - (1yr)

AP Calculus AB - (1yr)

AP Calculus BC - (1yr)

AP Statistics - (1yr)

Appl.Geom & Top/Alg/Geom/Trig - (1yr)

College Algebra - (1yr)

Geometry - (1yr)

Geometry Honors - (1yr)

IB Math: Analysis & App HL II - (1yr)

IB Math: Analysis & App SL II - (1yr)

IB Math: App & Interp SL II - (1yr)

Probability/Stats & DiscreteMath-(1yr)

Trigonometry & Calculus A - (1yr)

SCIENCE

AP Biology - (1yr)

AP Chemistry - (1yr)

AP Environmental Science - (1yr)

AP Physics I Algebra Based  - (1yr)

AP Physics C Mechanics - (1yr)

Applied Biology - (1yr)

Astronomy

Biology - (1yr)

Biology Honors - (1yr)

Chemistry in the Community - (1yr)

Chemistry - (1yr)

Chemistry Honors - (1yr)

Environmental Science -  (1yr)

Forensic Science

Geology

Global Science - (1yr)

Human Anatomy & Phys. I

Human Anatomy & Phys. II

IB Biology HL I - (1yr)

IB Biology HL II - (1yr)

IB Enviro. Systems/Societies SL- (1yr)

IB Sports, Exercise, and Health

Science SL - (1yr)

Physics - (1yr)

Zoology

SOCIAL STUDIES 

AP European History - (1yr)

AP Human Geography - (1yr)

AP Macroeconomics

AP Psychology - (1yr)

AP US Government & Politics

AP US History - (1yr)

AP World History: Modern - (1yr)

Contemporary World Issues

Geography  

IB European History HL I - (1yr)

IB 20th Century Euro HL II - (1yr)

IB Global Politics SL- (1yr)

IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK) I

IB Theory of Knowledge (TOK) II

Modern World History- (1yr)

Philosophy

Psychology  

Sociology

US Economics

US Government

US History - 1(yr)

US History Honors - (1yr)

World History Honors - (1yr)

World Religions

FINE ARTS (Fine Arts electives)

Adaptive Art

AP Art & Design 2D (Photo) - (1yr)

AP Art & Design 3D (Ceramics) - (1yr)

AP Art & Design 2D (Art and Design) - (1yr)

AP Art & Design 2D (Graphic Design) - (1yr)

AP Drawing - (1yr)

Art Experience I

Ceramics I, II, III, IV

CTE Commercial Photography I (A)

CTE Commercial Photography I (B)

CTE Commercial Photography II (A)

CTE Commercial Photography II (B)

CTE Graphic Design & Illustration I (A)

CTE Graphic Design & Illustration I (B)

CTE Graphic Design & Illustration II (A)

CTE Graphic Design & Illustration II (B)

Drawing & Painting I, II, III, IV

IB Art Design HL I - (1yr)

IB Art Design HL II - (1yr)

Jewelry I, II, III, IV

Mass Media and Communication

Sculpture I, II

MUSIC (Fine Arts electives)

Chamber Orchestra - (1yr)

Guitar I, II

Jazz Ensemble I - (1yr)

Men’s Select Choir- (1yr)

Orchestra/string - (1yr)

Piano I, II

Select Mixed Choir - (1yr)

Symphonic Band - (1yr)

Treble Choir - (1yr)

Wind Ensemble - (1yr)

Women’s Select Choir - (1yr)

THEATRE  (Fine Arts electives)

Tech Theatre I

Theatre I

Theatre II

Theatre III - (1yr)

Theatre IV Director - (1yr)

Theatre Production Ensemble - (1yr)

IB Theatre/Res SL II - (1yr)

BUSINESS AND MARKETING (Practical Arts electives)

ACC Bus Legal Enviro (BUS 2016)


ACC Social Media of Bus (MAR 1055)

ACC Princ. of Advert. (MAR 2020


ACC Principles of Sales (MAR1011)

ACC Princ.of Marketing (MAR 2016)


ACC Personal Finance (BUS 1016)

CTE Accounting Princ. I - (1 yr)

CTE Bus. & Marketing Essen - (1 yr)

IB Business Mgmt SL - (1yr)

IB Business Mgmt HL - (1yr)

COMPUTER AND MULTIMEDIA TECHNOLOGY (Practical Arts electives)

ACC Intro to PC Apps (CIS 1018)

AP Computer Science A - (1yr)

AP Computer Science Prin.- (1yr)

CTE Animation I

CTE Digital Media

CTE Design and Multimedia Art

CTE Digital Media and Comm AVI

FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES (Practical Arts Electives)

CTE Baking & Pastry A

CTE Catering I

CTE Catering II

CTE Educ. Child & Adoles. Dev.

CTE Educ. Interpersonal Rela.

CTE Food Culinary Nutrition

CTE Fashion Design I

CTE Fashion Design II

CTE Interior Design Residential

CTE Interior Design Commercial

CTE ProStart I - (1yr)

CTE ProStart II - (1yr)

INDUSTRIAL TECH (Practical Arts electives)

CTE Principles of Construction

CTE Woodworking Tech A

CTE Woodworking Tech B

Woodworking III (ELE)

CTE Intro to Welding

CTE Welding Tech I

CTE Welding Tech II

CTE Welding Tech III

CTE Welding Tech IV

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATH (STEAM)

Intro to Engineering

Engineering I

Engineering II

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Adventure Experience I

Adventure Leadership II

Advanced Team Sports I

Athletic Training I

Athletic Training II

Healthy Decisions

Intro to Mindfulness

Physical Education

Power Weights (Male Fall Athletes)

Power Weightsxx (Male Spring Athletes)

Shape Up

Sports Training (Female Fall Athletes)

Sports Trainingxx (Female Spring Athletes)

Strength & Conditioning

Strength & Conditioningxx

WORLD LANGUAGE 

American Sign Language I - (1yr)

American Sign Lang. II - (1yr)

American  Sign Lang. III - (1yr)

American Sign Lang. IV - (1yr)

French I - (1yr)

French II - (1yr)

French III - (1yr)

French IV - (1yr)

IB French IV SL - (1yr)

IB French V SL - (1yr)

AP Spanish Language/Culture - (1yr)

IB Spanish ab initio SL II -(1yr)

IB Spanish IV SL - (1 yr)

IB Spanish V SL - (1yr)

IB Spanish HL

Spanish I - (1yr)

Spanish II - (1yr)

Spanish III - (1yr)

Spanish IV - (1yr)

Spanish for Heritage Learners - (1yr)

OTHER ELECTIVES 

Creative Writing

IB Film SL - (1yr)

IB Film HL- (1yr)

Intro to Positive Psychology

Journalism

*Newspaper - (1yr)

*Peer Counseling I

*Peer Counseling Intern

*Peer Intern

Public Speaking 

Science Fiction & Fantasy

*Student Government - (1yr)

*Yearbook - (1yr)

*requires an application and/or teacher recommendation/approval      

ENGLISH  (ENG)

Students are required to have four credits of English for graduation.

POSTSECONDARY PATHWAY

9th grade

10th grade

11th grade

12th grade

Post Secondary Prep

English I

English II

English III

English IV

ACC English Comp & ACC Intro to Lit

AP

IB

English I Honors

English I Honors Humanities Block (with US History Honors)

English II Honors

English II Honors Humanities Block(with World History Honors)

AP Language & Composition

IB English HL I

AP Literature & Composition

ACC English Comp & ACC Intro to Lit

IB English HL II

English Electives

Creative Writing

Science Fiction & Fantasy

Creative Writing

Science Fiction & Fantasy

Creative Writing

Science Fiction & Fantasy

Creative Writing

Science Fiction & Fantasy

HUMANITIES BLOCK: FRESHMEN

HONORS PATH  ENGLISH I HONORS & US HISTORY HONORS 

ENGLISH I  HONORS

50310 S1/S2

CREDITS: 2.0

GRADES: 9

FEES: Students will be responsible for purchasing recommended vocabulary workbooks from an outside source

PREREQUISITES: Teacher recommendation

Students who are planning to take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) classes during high school are encouraged to enroll in honors courses. Honors courses are specifically designed to develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills that support success in higher level courses and post-secondary pathways. When registering for English I Honors, students must also register for US History Honors (85552 S1/S2)

HUMANITIES BLOCK: SOPHOMORES

HONORS PATH  ENGLISH II HONORS & WORLD HISTORY HONORS (REGISTER FOR BOTH)

ENGLISH II HONORS

World History Honors

50340 S1/S2

85450 S1/S2

CREDITS: 2.0

GRADES: 10

FEES: Students will be responsible for purchasing recommended vocabulary workbooks from an outside source

PREREQUISITES: Teacher recommendation

This course is an interdisciplinary Humanities block, however, the Honors course challenges students to go beyond the traditional curricular study to pursue a more in-depth investigation of the content. The course is demanding and will require a greater commitment of time and effort. Students should also expect to read texts of greater volume and difficulty. This course will focus on preparing students for future Advanced Placement (AP) classes. When registering for English II Honors, students must also register for Ancient World History/Geography.

ENGLISH I

50300 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 9

FEES: Students will be responsible for purchasing recommended vocabulary workbooks from an outside source.

PREREQUISITES: None

This year-long course is designed to help students transition to the high school English program by refining and strengthening reading, writing, and communication skills. It gives students the opportunity to develop an understanding and appreciation of world literature. Students will study literature through the genres of novel, drama, short story, nonfiction, and poetry, as well as through common themes. The study of grammar, usage, and mechanics will be integrated with the students' writing. Homework plays an essential role in the course, along with the study of vocabulary.

ENGLISH I HONORS

50310 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 9

FEES: Students will be responsible for purchasing recommended vocabulary workbooks from an outside source.

PREREQUISITES: None

This year-long, accelerated course includes the literature and writing experiences of English I, at an accelerated level. The course is intended for students capable of a challenging curriculum, and it provides a strong foundation for subsequent Honors and Advanced Placement (AP) English classes. In Honors English I, students will be expected to handle a greater amount of assigned reading than in English I and will compose more sophisticated essays, including the critical analysis essay and persuasive essay. Honors English I students will also study vocabulary. Homework is an essential part of the course, and students will be expected to complete summer reading in preparation for the school year.

ENGLISH II

50330 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 10

FEES: Students will be responsible for purchasing recommended vocabulary workbooks from an outside source.

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of English I

English II is a year-long course intended to help students strengthen their writing, reading, and communication skills. Students will study the six eras in American literature. They will also explore the genres of novel, short story, nonfiction, poetry, essay, speeches, and drama. In addition, students will be expected to successfully complete a major research project; multi-paragraph, thesis-driven essays; critical analysis essays, essay tests; and first person, narrative accounts. Homework plays an essential role in the course, along with the study of vocabulary.

ENGLISH II HONORS

50340 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 10

FEES: Students will be responsible for purchasing recommended vocabulary workbooks from an outside source.

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of English I

This year-long, accelerated course includes much of the literature, vocabulary study, and writing experiences of English II, but at an accelerated level (reading assignments, homework, and complexity of writing will be augmented). This course is intended for students capable of a challenging curriculum and provides a strong foundation for subsequent Advanced Placement English classes. In addition, the study of grammar, usage and mechanics will be integrated with the students' writing. In addition to the increased homework load, Honors English II students will be expected to complete a summer reading component.

ENGLISH III

50360 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 11

FEES: Students will be responsible for purchasing recommended vocabulary workbooks.

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of English II

This course will emphasize the diverse literary and cultural traditions that coincide with the economic, geographic and government developments in Modern World History from 1600 to the present.  Readings will include; novels, poems, plays and non-fiction texts. Preparatory twenty-first century skills for post-secondary education and success will be implemented and practiced.

ENGLISH IV

50440 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 12

FEES: Students will be responsible for purchasing recommended vocabulary workbooks.

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of English III

Through the study of Contemporary American Literature, students will refine their skills in research, reading and writing. Course of study will revolve around recent literary developments in America and the events, beliefs and theories informing the literature of this period. Students will complete the senior project. Preparatory twenty-first century skills for post-secondary education and success will be implemented and practiced.

ACC ENGLISH COMPOSITION I (ENG 1021)

69025 S1 CE

CREDITS: 0.5 (one semester), 3 ACC credit hours

Students will receive both high school and college credit; ACC credit will be awarded with a grade of "C" or better.

GRADES: 12

FEES: $15.00. Students will also be responsible for purchasing the required ACC textbooks, new or used, and an online grammar book.

PREREQUISITES: Accuplacer score of 95 or greater in sentence skills and 80 or greater in Reading, ACT English score of 18 and Reading score of 17, or an SAT English score of 440

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

This is a fall semester class that is taught in accordance with LIT115 in the spring. This course emphasizes the planning, writing, and revising of compositions, including the development of critical and logical thinking skills. This course includes a minimum of five compositions that stress analytical, evaluative, and persuasive/argument writing, including application of the research process, grammatical and mechanical correctness, and MLA formatting. Students will also be required to do the Senior Project along with the rest of the senior class.

ACC INTRODUCTION TO LITERATURE (LIT 1015)

69027S2 CE

CREDITS: 0.5 (one semester), 3 ACC credit hours

Students will receive both high school and college credit; ACC credit will be awarded with a grade of "C" or better.

GRADES: 12

FEES: $15.00. Students will be responsible for purchasing the novels covered in the course. Course will cover roughly four novels and one play.

PREREQUISITES: Required scores for ENG121 and a passing grade in ENG121.

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

This class is taught in the spring after ENG121 and provides an introduction to academic literature at a college level. Students will participate in close readings of novels, short stories, poetry, and one drama. Students will also be required to engage in literary analysis, historical analysis, and social/philosophical discourse, including speaking and writing. The Senior Project will be completed as well.

AP LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION

50390 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 one year course

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: Students are encouraged to purchase the textbook for the course.

AP Exam: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITES:  Successful completion of English II

The cornerstone of the Advanced Placement (AP) English Language and Composition course is practice in the use of rhetoric and composition with a particular emphasis on argumentative, expository, and narrative forms. Close, critical reading and discussion of texts representing a variety of genres and periods, coupled with careful writing employing several compositional approaches will inculcate the analytical and creative skills necessary for success on the AP exam. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

Graduation Competency Eligible - A score of 2 or higher on the AP exam in this course will satisfy the graduation competency requirement for English.

AP LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION

50400 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 one year course

GRADES: 12

FEES: Students are encouraged to purchase the textbook for the course.

AP Exam: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITES:  Successful completion of English III

AP English Literature and Composition is an introductory college-level literary analysis course. Students cultivate their understanding of literature through reading and analyzing texts as they explore concepts like character, setting, structure, perspective, figurative language, and literary analysis in the context of literary works. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

Graduation Competency Eligible - A score of 2 or higher on the AP exam in this course will satisfy the graduation competency requirement for English.

IB ENGLISH HL I

50355 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 English credit (one year)

GRADES: 11

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May of senior year ($119).  It is highly recommended that students purchase the novels covered in IB English HL I and HL II.

PREREQUISITES: Recommended Honors English 

Over a two year period Juniors and Seniors will be exposed to a language and literature course that introduces students to the analysis of both literary and non-literary texts. The course is organized into four parts, each focused on a combination of these works in various formats. Together, the four parts of the course add up to a comprehensive exploration of texts from a variety of cultures, genres and periods. Students learn to appreciate the artistry of many forms of communication, and develop the ability to reflect critically on the construction of the texts, presenting literary and rhetorical analysis powerfully through both oral and written communication. Students are assessed through a combination of formal examinations, written coursework and oral activities. Students develop the ability to engage in close, detailed analysis of literary works, building understanding of the techniques involved in literary criticism. The study of literary and non-literary works in context is emphasized, and through the study of works in translation the student is challenged to reflect on the role of cultural assumptions in interpretation. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C,one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB ENGLISH HL II

11505 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 English credit (one year)

GRADES: 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May of senior year ($119).  It is highly recommended that students purchase the novels covered in IB English HL I and HL II.

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of IB English HL I

IB English is a required course for IB Diploma students. IB English HL is a two year sequence with IB exams at the end of the second year.  This course fulfills the Group 1 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to IB Course students on an availability basis. This is the second year of a two-year sequence.  Over a two year period Juniors and Seniors will be exposed to a language and literature course that introduces students to the analysis of both literary and non-literary texts. The course is organized into four parts, each focused on a combination of these works in various formats. Together, the four parts of the course add up to a comprehensive exploration of texts from a variety of cultures, genres and periods. Students learn to appreciate the artistry of many forms of communication, and develop the ability to reflect critically on the construction of the texts, presenting literary and rhetorical analysis powerfully through both oral and written communication. Students are assessed through a combination of formal examinations, written coursework and oral activities. Students develop the ability to engage in close, detailed analysis of literary works, building understanding of the techniques involved in literary criticism. The study of literary and non-literary works in context is emphasized, and through the study of works in translation the student is challenged to reflect on the role of cultural assumptions in interpretation. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

CREATIVE WRITING

50470

CREDITS: 0.5 Elective credit (ELE)

GRADES: 9 - 12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: None

This semester-long course will teach and practice the skills of creative writing in both poetry and prose. The course will be divided into a quarter of poetry and a quarter of fiction. Students will write their own original works and edit/comment on other student’s original works. Students will also read and analyze works by past & contemporary authors. This course will also briefly discuss getting published.

SCIENCE FICTION & FANTASY

50610

CREDITS: 0.5 Elective credit (ELE)

GRADES:  9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: None

This course is a study of science fiction and fantasy literature, as well as other genres included in Speculative Fiction. Students will read extensively from classic and modern writers, write responses to literature, discuss the prominent themes and prepare a variety of literary projects. Time will also be spent discussing impacts of these genres on culture, media, and society at large.

MATH (MAT)

Pathway

9th Grade

10th Grade

11th Grade

12th Grade

Post Secondary  prep

Algebra I

Geometry

Algebra II/Trig

AP Statistics

College Algebra

Trig/Calculus A

ACC College Algebra (sem.) 1 credit

ACC College Trig (sem.)  

ACC Intro to Statistics (sem.)


Discrete Mathematics (sem.)

Probability & Statistics (sem.)


AP

IB

Geometry Honors**

Algebra II/Trig Honors

IB Options: Application & Interpretation SL

AP Statistics

AP Calculus AB

Trig/Calculus A

IB Analysis & Approaches SL,

AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus BC

AP Statistics

ACC College Algebra (sem.)

ACC College Trig (sem.)

AP Calculus AB

AP Statistics

Algebra II /Trig Honors

Trig/Calculus A

Teacher Recommendation

Options Include:

IB Options: Analysis & Approaches SL

AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus BC

AP Statistics

Teacher Recommendation

Options Include:

IB Options: Analysis & Approaches HL

AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus BC

AP Statistics (can take after Alg II)

If taking Trig/Calc A as a freshman, please consult with a counselor first.

**Students should also enroll in Biology Honors 

ALGEBRA I

60400 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: It is recommended student’s purchase a graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Math 8 or teacher recommendation

This is an Algebra course covering topics that include the manipulation of algebraic equations, application of linear, quadratic and variation functions, the representation of data, and the utilization of ratios, proportions, measurements, similarity and probability in the context of real world problems.

ALGEBRA I Part 1

60380 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: It is recommended student’s purchase a graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Teacher Recommendation

This course requires a two-year commitment from the student. Completion of both Algebra I Part 1 and Algebra I Part 2 will count as one credit for CCHE and NCAA requirements. In this year-long course, students study the first half of Algebra I and are expected to complete the course by taking Algebra I Part II the following year. Students review basic computational skills and begin working with variables to simplify algebraic expressions and solve first degree equations. Students study real numbers, polynomials, and graphing. Organizational and study skills are emphasized.

ALGEBRA I Part 2

60385 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: It is recommended student’s purchase a graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Completion of Algebra I Part 1, and Teacher Recommendation 

Successful completion of both Algebra I Part 1 and Part 2 will fulfill the Algebra I graduation requirement. In addition, completion of both Algebra I Part 1 and Algebra I Part 2 will count as one credit for CCHE and NCAA requirements. In this year-long course, students study the second half of Algebra I, continuing work with variables, real numbers, first and second degree equations and inequalities, factoring, polynomials, radicals, and graphing.

GEOMETRY

60475 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES:  10-12

FEES: It is recommended student’s purchase a graphing calculator (TI-84), compass, protractor and ruler.

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Algebra I

This is a geometry course integrating the topics of coordinate geometry, measure and capacity, similarity and congruency, inductive and deductive reasoning, the applications of linear, quadratic and rational functions and probability and data simulation in the context of real world problems.

GEOMETRY HONORS

Biology Honors 

60450 S1/S2

80356 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-10

FEES: It is recommended that students purchase a graphing calculator (TI-84), compass, protractor and ruler.

PREREQUISITES: Recommended “B” or better in Algebra I and teacher recommendation

Students should also concurrently enroll in Biology Honors when taking this course.

This is an accelerated geometry course for students who want a challenging, fast-paced course. In addition to the topics in Geometry, Honors Geometry emphasizes the proof of geometric and algebraic properties and emphasizes real world applications to geometric concepts.  A pretest for honors level ability and aptitude may be required.

Students who are planning to take Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate classes during high school are encouraged to enroll in honors courses. Honors courses are specifically designed to develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills that support success in higher level courses and post-secondary success.

APPLIED GEOMETRY

60525S1

CREDIT: 0.5 math credits

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: Graphing calculator (TI-83 or TI-83+) recommended, a ruler, a compass, and protractor.

PREREQUISITES: Teacher recommendation

The focus of this course is geometric foundations, measurement and applications. Students taking this course will use a variety of tools and techniques to communicate the reasoning involved in solving problems.

TOPICS/ALGEBRA/GEOMETRY/TRIG

60340S2

CREDIT: 0.5 math credits

GRADES:  11-12

FEES: Graphing calculator (TI-83 or TI-83+) recommended, a ruler, a compass, and  protractor

PREREQUISITES:  Successful completion of Applied Geometry and teacher recommendation

This course is an extension of algebra and applied geometry, and will include basic concepts of trigonometry. Students will also develop test-taking strategies.

ALGEBRA II/TRIG

60590 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credits (one year)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: It is recommended student’s purchase a graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Geometry with a “D” or better

This algebra course covers the advanced topics of the application of linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic and periodic functions, and introductory trigonometry in the context of real world problems.

ALGEBRA II/TRIG HONORS

60550 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES:  9-11

FEES: It is recommended students purchase a Graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Recommended grade of “A” in Algebra I and Geometry or, grade of “B” or better in Geometry Honors and/or teacher recommendation

This is a rigorous course for highly motivated students. Applications are handled by creating mathematical models of phenomena in the real world. It is a comprehensive study of functions, including linear functions, quadratic functions, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, rational and irrational algebraic functions, and higher-degree functions. It also includes sequences, series, probability and basic to intermediate trigonometric and circular functions.

Students who are planning to take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate classes during high school are encouraged to enroll in honors courses. Honors courses are specifically designed to develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills that support success in higher level courses and post-secondary success.

COLLEGE ALGEBRA

60570 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES:  11-12

FEES: It is highly recommended student’s purchase a graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Algebra II/Trig

In this course students study algebraic functions (linear, quadratic, cubic, exponential, logarithmic and absolute values) and their graphs.

                      

ACC COLLEGE ALGEBRA  (MAT1340)

69030

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit. ACC 4 credit hours credit will be awarded for grade "C" or better

GRADES:  11-12

FEES: $15.00. ACC registration fee, purchase of a mymathlab account (approx. $100), and graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Receive a B in Semester 2 Algebra II with a 3.0 Cumulative GPA. ACT Math score of 23 or SAT Math score of 590 required

This course receives both high school and college credit. The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

This course includes a brief review of intermediate algebra, equations, and inequalities, functions, and graphs, exponential and logarithmic functions, linear and nonlinear systems, selection of topics from among graphing of the conic sections, introduction to sequences and series permutations and combinations, the binomial theorem and the theory of equations. Students must have successful completion of this course with a ‘C’ or higher to receive college credit.

ACC COLLEGE TRIGONOMETRY (MAT1420) 

69032

CREDIT:0.5 math credit. ACC 3 credit hours, credit will be awarded for grades "C" or better

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: ACC registration fee, purchase of a mymathlab account (approx. $100), and graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of ACC-MAT 121 (College Algebra)

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

This course covers topics including trigonometric functions (with graphs and inverse functions), identities and equations, solutions of triangles, complex numbers, and other topics as time permits. This is a traditional prerequisite course to the calculus sequence. Students must have successful completion of this course with a “C” or better to receive college credit.


ACC INTRO to STATISTICS  (MAT 1260)

690135

CREDIT:0.5 credit /ACC 3 credit hours, credit will be awarded for grades "C" or better

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $15.00,  Purchase of a MyMathLab account (approx. $100), graphing calculator (TI-84) and ACC registration fee

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of ACC-MAT 121 (College Algebra), ACT Math score of 24, or SAT Math score of 590 required

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.** Topics presented include: exploratory analysis of data making use of graphical and numerical techniques to study patterns and departures from patterns, collecting data according to a well-developed plan, applying probability as a tool to anticipate what the distribution of data should look like under a given model, and using statistical inference to guide the selection of appropriate models. Students must have successful completion of this course with a “C” or better to receive college credit.

TRIGONOMETRY - Semester 1

CALCULUS A - Semester 2

60600

60674

CREDIT:1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: It is highly recommended that students purchase a graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Recommend an "A" in Algebra II/Trig or "C" or higher in Honors Algebra II/Trig

Topics include trigonometric and circular functions, right triangle trigonometry, laws of sine and cosine, and their applications,graphing all six trig functions, simplifying and verifying trig functions and solving trigonometric functions. Second semester will include limits, derivatives and application of derivatives.

PROBABILITY & STATISTICS

60775

CREDIT: 0.5 math credit

GRADES:  10-12

FEES: It is highly recommended that students purchase a Graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Algebra I and/or teacher recommendation

Students will study topics in probability and statistics including experimental design and presentation and interpretation of data. This course will be excellent preparation for a college statistics course.


DISCRETE MATHEMATICS  

60800

CREDIT: 0.5 math credit

GRADES:11-12

FEES: It is highly recommended that students purchase a Graphing calculator (TI-84)

PREREQUISITES: Algebra I and/or teacher recommendation

Discrete mathematics is the study of mathematical concepts that are non-continuous. The material studied in discrete mathematics, such as integers, patterns, and statements in logic, have distinct, separated values. Topics of study in this course include: sequences and series, Pascal’s Triangle, the Binomial Theorem, permutations and combinations, probability, game theory, matrices, cryptography, set theory, and election theory.

AP STATISTICS

60801 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: Students are required to purchase an AP textbook (approx. $100) and a graphing calculator (TI84)

AP Exam: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP exam in May ($98)

PREREQUISITES: "B" or better in Alg II/Trig or "A" in College Algebra

AP Statistics is a college level class that provides students the opportunity to earn college credit by passing the AP Statistics Exam. Topics presented include: exploratory analysis of data making use of graphical and numerical techniques to study patterns and departures from patterns, collecting data according to a well-developed plan, applying probability as a tool to anticipate what the distribution of data should look like under a given model, and using statistical inference to guide the selection of appropriate models. AP courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an Advanced Placement course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. This is a one-year course; students may not drop at semester. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.


AP CALCULUS AB

60625 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: AP EXAM: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May ($98)

PREREQUISITES: “C” or better in Trigonometry

AP Calculus AB is a college level class that provides students with an academic experience equivalent to first semester college calculus. Students may earn college credit by passing the AP Calculus AB exam, which is administered annually.

AP Calculus AB emphasizes the theory of elementary functions, differential and integral calculus of functions of the variable. Topics include various types of functions, limits, continuity, the derivative and its applications and the integral and its applications.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an Advanced Placement course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. This is a one-year course; students may not drop at semester. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP CALCULUS BC

60650 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: It is highly recommended student’s purchase an AP textbook (approx. $100), workbook, and graphing calculator (TI84 or TI89)

AP Exam: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May ($98)

PREREQUISITES:  “A” in Trig/Calc A or successful completion of AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus BC is a college level class that provides students with an academic experience equivalent to second semester college calculus. Students may earn college credit by passing the AP Calculus BC exam, which is administered annually. AP Calculus BC reviews topics presented in AP Calculus AB. It continues on with extended applications of derivatives and integrals, derivatives of parametric, polar, and vector functions, polynomial approximations and series, and study of the Taylor series. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.


IB MATHEMATICS

IB ANALYSIS & APPROACHES SL II

60679 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 11 or 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

TI 84 calculator recommended. 

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Trig/Calc

This course fulfills the Group 5 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to  IB Course students on an availability basis. Course description:

  • This course is a one-year course at the Standard Level only.
  • IB Mathematics A & A SL provides students who will continue to study mathematics in college with a background of mathematical thought and a reasonable level of technical ability.
  • Studies fivecore topics: number and algebra, functions, geometry and trigonometry, statistics and probability, calculus.
  • Develops the ability to apply mathematical concepts and principles to new situations.
  • Enables students to recognize and demonstrate an understanding of the practical applications of mathematics, appropriate use of technology as mathematical tools, and appropriate use of mathematical modeling.
  • Enables students to formulate a mathematical argument and communicate it clearly.
  • Encourages students to appreciate the multicultural and historical perspectives of mathematics.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB APPLICATION & INTERPRETATION SL II

60682 S1/S2

CREDIT:  1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 11 or 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).  

TI 84 calculator recommended.

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Alg II/Trig

This course fulfills the Group 5 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to IB Course students on an availability basis. Course description:

  • This course is a one-year course sequence at the Standard Level only. IB Mathematics A & I SL caters to students with varied backgrounds and abilities.
  • Develops the ability to apply mathematical concepts and principles to new situations.
  • Enables students to recognize and demonstrate an understanding of the practical applications of mathematics, appropriate use of technology as mathematical tools, appropriate use of mathematical modeling.
  • Enables students to formulate a mathematical argument and communicate it clearly.
  • Encourages students to appreciate the multicultural and historical perspectives of mathematics.
  • Studies the following core topics: graphing display calculator, algebra, sets, logic and probability, functions, geometry and trigonometry, statistics, introduction to calculus and financial math.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

 

IB ANALYSIS & APPROACHES  HL II

60677 S1/S2

CREDIT:  1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

TI 84 calculator recommended.

PREREQUISITES:  Successful completion of AP Calc BC or teacher recommendation

This course fulfills the Group 5 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to IB Course students on an availability basis. IB Mathematics A & A HL is a study in algebra and coordinate geometry, quadratics,  functions, index laws, higher level algebra, binomial expansions, sequences and series, trigonometry, formal roof, calculus, complex numbers, matrices and vectors, and analysis and approximation. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

SCIENCE (SCI)

POST SECONDARY PATHWAY

9TH GRADE

10TH GRADE

11TH GRADE

12TH GRADE

COLLEGE PREP

Global Science

Biology

Biology Honors##

Chemistry

Chemistry Honors

AP Sciences**

Physics

Environmental Science 

Science Electives*

AP

IB

Biology Honors##

Chemistry Honors

AP Sciences**

IB Sciences***

General  Physics

AP Sciences**

IB Sciences***

General  Physics

School

to

Work

Global Science

Applied Biology

Chemistry in the Community

Science Electives*

## Students should also enroll in Geometry Honors

*ELECTIVES: SEMESTER COURSES

  • Anatomy & Physiology I & II
  • Astronomy
  • Forensic Science
  • Geology
  • Zoology
  • Environmental Science (1yr)

**AP SCIENCES:

  • AP Biology
  • AP Chemistry
  • AP Environmental Science
  • AP Physics I (concurrent enrollment in AlgII/Trig required)
  • AP Physics C (Calculus is a required prerequisite.)

Many colleges require Biology, Chemistry and Physics

***IB SCIENCES

  • IB Biology HL I and II
  • IB Environmental Systems & Societies SL
  • IB Sports, Exercise & Health Science

GLOBAL SCIENCE

80325 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: None

Global Science is an integrated science course combining life, earth and physical science topics in a lab-based and inquiry-driven environment enriched by basic chemistry and physics principles. Students will apply data collected in laboratory investigations to understand and interpret the scientific and social challenges of the future.

BIOLOGY

80350 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 10 – 12

FEES: $5 dissection fee and an optional $6 goggle recovery fee; It is highly recommended Students purchase colored pencils, metric ruler and a TI-83, TI-83 Plus or TI-84 calculator

PREREQUISITES: None

Biology is the study of living organisms. This course will cover these main topics: (1) Scientific methodology, (2) cell molecular structure, biology and function, (3) diversity and taxonomy, (4) energy transformations, (5) homeostasis, (6) genetics and (7) evolution, (8) ecology, and (9) environmental and ethical issues relating to Biology. The course will be laboratory-based and requires extensive work in writing and data analysis.

BIOLOGY HONORS

Geometry Honors

80356 S1/S2

60450 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 10 -12

FEES: An optional $6 goggle recovery fee; It is highly recommended Students purchase colored pencils, metric ruler and a TI-83, TI-83 Plus or TI-84 calculator.

PREREQUISITES: Concurrent enrollment in Geometry Honors (recommended for strong Math and Science students)

Students should also concurrently enroll in Geometry Honors when taking this course.

Biology is the study of living organisms. This course will to cover these main topics: (1) Scientific methodology, (2) cell molecular structure, biology and function, (3) diversity and taxonomy, (4) energy transformations, (5) homeostasis, (6) genetics and (7) evolution, (8) ecology, and (9) environmental and ethical issues relating to Biology. The course will be laboratory-based and require extensive work in writing and data analysis.

Students who are planning to take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate classes during high school are encouraged to enroll in honors courses. Honors courses are specifically designed to develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills that support success in higher level courses and post-secondary success.

APPLIED BIOLOGY

80360 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 10 -12

FEES: $5 dissection fee and an optional $6 goggle recovery fee

PREREQUISITES: Teacher recommendation

Biology is the study of living organisms. This course will cover main topics described in Biology 80350 but in less depth. Emphasis will be placed on the scientific method throughout the course. The course will be laboratory-based. The materials and activities of this course are less abstract and more concrete. They are adapted for students who have not been successful in traditional science classes.

*CDHE credit may be applied depending upon where this course is taken in sequence with other science classes.   See your counselor for more information.

AP BIOLOGY

80365 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 11 -12

FEES:There is a $30 dissection fee, and an optional $6 goggle fee. It is highly recommended that students purchase an AP textbook ($100.00.)

AP Exam: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITES: “C” or better in Biology and Chemistry or concurrently taking Chemistry

This course is the equivalent of a full-year, laboratory-based introductory Biology course for majors at the university level. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the National Advanced Placement (AP) exam held in May, which students may take to receive college credit.

Students electing to enroll in AP Biology should be highly motivated, desire a significant academic challenge, and be seriously interested in studying biological science at an advanced level.

Major topics covered will include: (1) Scientific Methodology, (2) Biological Molecules, (3) Chemistry of Life, (4) Cellular Organization, (5) Bioenergetics, (6) Heredity, (7) Molecular Biology, (8) Evolutionary Biology, (9) Diversity and Taxonomy, (10) Structure and Function of Plants, (11) Structure and Function of Animals, and (12) Ecology. Approximately 40% of the course will be laboratory-based, and students will be expected to keep laboratory journals and produce college-level laboratory reports throughout the year.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an Advanced Placement (AP) course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. This is a one-year course; students may not drop at semester. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.


CHEMISTRY

80375 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 10 -12

FEES: An optional $6 goggle fee. It is highly recommended that students purchase a lab book, periodic table, ruler and a TI-83, TI-83 Plus, or TI-84 calculator.

PREREQUISITES: "C" or better in Biology and concurrent enrollment in Geometry

Chemistry covers the broad concepts upon which modern chemistry rests, including measurement, balancing chemical equations, states of matter, atomic theory, chemical bonding, arrangement of the periodic table, kinetics, equilibrium, acid and base reactions, electrochemistry, writing chemical names and formulas. Laboratory work is an essential part of the course requiring extensive data analysis using their TI-83 calculators attached to scientific probes.

CHEMISTRY HONORS

80385 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 10 -12

FEES: An optional $6 goggle fee. It is highly recommended that students purchase a lab book, periodic table, ruler and a TI-83, TI-83 Plus, or TI-84 calculator.

PREREQUISITES: "B" or better in Biology and concurrent enrollment in Geometry.

Chemistry covers the broad concepts upon which modern chemistry rests, including the mathematics of science, atomic structure, naming and writing formulas, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, gasses, periodicity, bonding, kinetics and equilibrium, solutions and concentrations, acids and bases, with possible enrichment in: redox, thermochemistry, nuclear chemistry, and organic chemistry/biochemistry. Laboratory work is an essential part of the course requiring extensive data analysis. This course covers the above topics in more detail.

Students who are planning to take Advanced Placement or International Baccalaureate classes during high school are encouraged to enroll in honors courses. Honors courses are specifically designed to develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills that support success in higher level courses and post-secondary success.

CHEMISTRY IN THE COMMUNITY (CHEMCOM)

80455 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 11 -12

FEES: An optional $6 goggle fee

PREREQUISITES: Must pass 1 semester of Biology or teacher recommendation if a special situation occurs i.e., transfer students.

Course integrates major concepts of chemistry with laboratory experiences and projects in relation to current environmental and public health issues such as acid rain, greenhouse gasses, ozone depletion, water and soil pollution, individual and community health problems, nuclear energy, pollution, nutrition and other relevant issues. This course focuses more on the application of chemistry in order to understand environmental issues than on the traditional study of chemical theory and structure offered in Chemistry 80375.  Students will learn about the many scientific, community health and medical careers, which today require a background in environmental chemistry. *CDHE credit may be applied depending upon where this course is taken in sequence with other science classes. See your counselor for more information.

AP CHEMISTRY

80400 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: A $50 lab fee, and an optional $6 goggle fee. It is highly recommended students purchase an AP textbook ($100) and a periodic table ($0.50).

AP Exam: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May, (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITES: “C” grade or better in both semesters of Chemistry and Algebra II, a passing grade in Biology

This course is the equivalent of a full-year, laboratory-based introductory Chemistry course for majors at the university level. The curriculum is designed to prepare students for the National Advanced Placement (AP) exam held in May, which students may take to receive college credit.

Students electing to enroll in AP Chemistry should be highly motivated, desire a significant academic challenge, and be seriously interested in studying physical and biological sciences at an advanced level. All traditional, general chemistry topics such as stoichiometry, gasses bonding, kinetics, equilibrium acids and bases, thermochemistry, electrochemistry, organic chemistry and nuclear chemistry will be explored in greater depth and breadth than Chemistry. Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an Advanced Placement (AP) course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. This is a one-year course; students may not drop at semester. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

80370 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: It is highly recommended that students purchase an AP textbook (approx.$100.00).

AP Exam: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of one year of life science, and a minimum of Algebra I. Completion of Chemistry is also highly recommended.

This course will provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an Advanced Placement (AP) course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. This is a one-year course; students may not drop at semester. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

PHYSICS

80430 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 10 -12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra II/Trig or higher. Successful completion of Algebra and Geometry recommended.

Physics is the search for the fundamental laws of nature; it is the basic science from which all the others are derived. Physics is the most rapidly developing field of knowledge. A logical, problem solving approach to the development of the major principles of physics will be used to develop your abilities to inter-relate the concepts.

AP PHYSICS I: ALGEBRA BASED

80656 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: It is highly recommended that students purchase an online homework service (approx $15).

AP Exam: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $100).

PREREQUISITES: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra II/Trig or higher

AP Physics I is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through inquiry based investigations as they explore these topics: kinematics; dynamics; circular motion and gravitation; energy; momentum; simple harmonic motion; torque and rotational motion. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP PHYSICS C MECHANICS

80655 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: It is highly recommended that students purchase an online AP textbook and homework service

(approx.$50 total).

AP EXAM: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $100).

PREREQUISITES: have passed either Trig/Calc A or AP Calc AB or BC

This course covers motion of particles, forces, work, energy, collisions, rotation, rolling, torque, angular momentum, gravitation, and oscillations. These topics will be studied at the college freshman, science/engineering major level. Calculus will be used as a mathematical language and problem solving tool. Upon completing the course work students will have the opportunity to take the AP Physics C Mechanics Exam. The exam is equivalent to a first semester college physics exam for engineering or science majors. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS/SOCIETIES SL

 80383 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Science credit (SCI)

 GRADES: 11 - 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119). 

 PREREQUISITES: Successful completion

of Biology and/or Chemistry; The Honors pathway is recommended.

This course fulfills the Group 4 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to IB Course students on an availability basis.

  • IB Environmental Systems and Societies is an interdisciplinary course that provides a coherent perspective of the interrelationships between environmental systems and societies, allowing students to evaluate the scientific, ethical, and socio-political aspects of issues.
  • Topics include ecosystems, biodiversity, population dynamics, pollution, Earth systems and resources, land and water use, energy resources, and global change.
  • This course incorporates a hands-on approach to learning science. Students will be expected to design and carry out experimental procedures as well as apply theoretical principles and analyze experimental results.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for

a D and zero points for an F.

 IB BIOLOGY HL I

 80358 S1/S2

 CREDIT:1.0 Science credit (SCI)

 GRADES: 11-12

 FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May of senior year ($119).

 PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Biology and/or Chemistry and/or Physics; The Honors pathway is recommended. 

IB Biology HL I is the first year of a two-year sequence. Students selecting HL courses during the junior year are committed to completing the senior year of the two-year sequence. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB BIOLOGY  HL II

80354 S1/S2

CREDIT:1.0 science credit (SCI)

GRADES:  11- 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May of senior year ($119).

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Biology and/or Chemistry and/or Physics; The Honors pathway is recommended. 

IB Biology HL is a two-year sequence with IB exams at the end of the second year. This course fulfills the Group 4 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to IB Course students on an availability basis.

  • This course is a two-year course at the HL level only.
  • IB Biology emphasizes an investigative approach to science. Students will be expected to design and carry out experimental procedures, as well as apply theoretical principles and analyze results.
  • Students also develop an awareness of moral and ethical issues, and examining local and global issues fosters a sense of social responsibility.
  • Studies the biology topics of cells, chemistry of life, genetics, ecology, evolution, plant science and human health and physiology.
  • Develops in students the ability to complete investigative science through the requirement of sixty hours of lab work.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB SPORTS, EXERCISE & HEALTH SCIENCE SL

75490 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Science credit (SCI)

GRADES: 11 -12

FEES: $50 fee per semester. Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITES: None

IB Sports, Exercise, and Health Science courses prepare students to take the International Baccalaureate Sports, Exercise, and Health Science exam at the standard level. These courses are designed to provide students with an understanding of the science of physical performance. Course topics may include anatomy and physiology, biomechanics, psychology and nutrition, and the measurement and evaluation of human performance. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY I

80525

CREDIT:  0.5 Science elective credit (SCI)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES:  $20.00 lab fee

PREREQUISITES: Must successfully complete Anatomy & Physiology I. Recommended “C” or better in Biology

Human Anatomy and Physiology I is an advanced course for students who are interested in exploring human-body functions and structures in great depth. Students will be expected to conduct numerous laboratory investigations. Human health and disease will be emphasized and explored through inquiry. This course is designed for biology/health care related students; however, the non-biology major will benefit as well. Dissection will be a requirement of this class.

HUMAN ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY II 

80526

CREDIT: 0.5 Science elective credit (SCI)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $20.00 lab fee

PREREQUISITES: Must successfully complete Anatomy & Physiology I.

Human Anatomy and Physiology II is a continuation of Human Anatomy and Physiology I. It is designed for the biology/health care related student. This course will cover the body systems not explored in depth in A&P I. Students will be expected to conduct numerous laboratory investigations.

ASTRONOMY

80600

CREDIT: 0.5 science elective credit  (SCI)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $5 fee course fee

PREREQUISITES: Passed full credit of one (1) other science credit or teacher recommendation.

Astronomy is the study of the universe. Major topics include: The characteristics of our solar system, the lives of stars and the history of astronomy. Students will learn the names of constellations and stars of the night sky and how astronomy is directly related to contemporary culture. Controversies such as alien life, extinction events and funding of the space program will be explored. Attendance at one evening star gazing is required.

*CDHE credit may be applied depending upon where this course is taken in sequence with other science classes. See your counselor for more information.

FORENSIC SCIENCE

80420

CREDIT: 0.5 Science elective credit (SCI)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $10 to cover the cost of consumables.

PREREQUISITES: None

This upper level science elective will focus on using the understanding of all sciences in order to "solve the crime. Topics will include fingerprinting analysis, serology, ballistics, hair and fiber analysis, toxicology, and questioned document analysis.

GEOLOGY

80575

CREDIT: 0.5 Science elective credit  (SCI)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $5 lab fee

PREREQUISITES: None

Geology is the study of the earth, its formation, and the processes that shape it. It is a survey course that includes major topics such as rocks and minerals, plate tectonics, natural resources, and Colorado geology.

ZOOLOGY

80500

CREDIT: 0.5 Science elective credit  (SCI)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $25 Course Fee

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Biology and/or teacher recommendation

Zoology is a course designed to present the student with representatives of all the major animal groups, their comparative anatomy, evolutionary origins and record, ecology, and behavior. It is primarily lab-oriented with dissections.  Course Objectives:

  • Derive the phylogeny of animal taxa using informative characteristics
  • Compare and contrast sexual and asexual reproductive strategies
  • Distinguish embryologic developmental stages of vertebrates
  • Compare form and function relationships within animal groups and across key taxa of invertebrate and vertebrate animals
  • Explain the similarities and differences among major body plans
  • Assess how animals interact with their environment including key adaptations found within taxa of invertebrate and vertebrate animals
  • Relate animal adaptations including; behaviors to the ecological roles of animals.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

80328 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1 Science credit  (SCI)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: none

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of chemistry or teacher recommendation

Environmental Science courses examine the mutual relationships between organisms and their

environment. In studying the interrelationships among plants, animals, and humans, these courses usually cover the following subjects: photosynthesis, recycling and regeneration, ecosystems, population and growth studies, pollution, and conservation of natural resources.

SOCIAL STUDIES (SST, AMH, GVT)

Douglas County School District has a minimum graduation requirement of 3.0 credits in Social Studies to be eligible for graduation:

1.0 US History

1.5 Social Studies, World History and/or electives

0.5 Government

         3.0 Minimum social studies credits

For students intending to go on to college, it is highly recommended that they take at least 4.0 credits of Social Studies classes. The following curriculum map is intended to lay out the classes required and/or recommended for a variety of academic paths toward graduation and/or post graduation preparation.  

POST SECONDARY PATHWAY

9th GRADE

HUMANITIES

10th GRADE

HUMANITIES

11th GRADE

12th GRADE

Post Secondary Prep  

US History Humanities Block (with English I) 

US History 1877 - Present

US History Honors Humanities Block (with English I Honors)

US History Honors -  1877 - Present

Modern World History Humanities Block (with English II)

   

Modern World History

World History Honors Humanities Block (with English II Honors)

World History Honors

Choose two, semester-long electives**

And/Or

AP/IB Year Long Course

US Government 

and

US Economics

or other semester long elective**

Or

US Government 

And

AP/IB Year Long Course

AP

&

IB

US History Humanities Block (with English I) 

US History

US History Honors Humanities Block (with English I Honors)

US History Honors

1877 - Present

AP Human Geography

World History Honors Humanities Block (with English II Honors)

World History Honors

AP World History

AP Human Geography

AP US Government & Politics (IB track only)

AP Human Geography

AP US History

AP Human Geography  

AP Psychology

AP Macroeconomics

AP European History

IB European History HL I

IB Global Politics

 

US Government OR

AP US Government & Politics (required)

AP Macroeconomics (sem)

AP US  History

AP European History

AP Human Geography

IB 20th Century Euro HL II

IB Global Politics SL

**Semester Long Electives: Geography, Psychology, Sociology, World Religions, Philosophy, Contemporary World Issues, US Economics, IB Theory of Knowledge I, IB Theory of Knowledge II

REMINDER: Colleges expect students to take 4 years of rigorous Social Studies classes. Students are strongly encouraged to check with potential colleges for social studies admissions requirements.

HUMANITIES BLOCK: FRESHMEN

REGULAR PATH  ENGLISH I & US HISTORY (REGISTER FOR BOTH) 

US HISTORY: 1877 - PRESENT

ENGLISH I

85650 S1/S2

50300 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE:  9

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

NOTE: Freshmen who register for US History must register for English I (regular pathway). 

Students learn about many developments in American history since 1877, both in the area of domestic affairs and foreign affairs. Students examine topics such as immigration, the industrial revolution and the rise of a post-industrial economy, the cycle of expansion and recession/depression in our economy, the American tendency to swing back and forth between liberalism and conservatism, the twists and turns of US foreign policy, and the wars fought by this nation since 1877. All of these developments are explored through four different historical lenses: political, military, economic, and social. The ultimate goal is for students to gain a better understanding of the United States they live in today.

HUMANITIES BLOCK: FRESHMEN

HONORS PATH  ENGLISH I HONORS & US HISTORY HONORS 

US HISTORY: 1877-PRESENT HONORS

ENGLISH I HONORS 

85552 S1/S2

50310 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 9

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

NOTE: Freshmen who register for US History Honors must register for English I Honors (honors pathway).

This course is an interdisciplinary Humanities block, however, the Honors course challenges students to go beyond the traditional curricular study to pursue a more in-depth investigation of the content. The course is demanding and will require a greater commitment of time and effort. Students should also expect to read texts of greater volume and difficulty. This course will focus on preparing students for future Advanced Placement (AP) classes.

Students who plan to take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate classes are encouraged to enroll in honors courses. Honors courses are specifically designed to develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills that support success in higher level courses and post-secondary success.

HUMANITIES BLOCK: SOPHOMORES

REGULAR PATH  ENGLISH II & MODERN WORLD HISTORY (REGISTER FOR BOTH)

MODERN WORLD HISTORY

ENGLISH II

85380 S1/S2

50330 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 10

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

Modern World History will begin with the rise of the modern nation state and conclude in the modern era. It emphasizes clear and effective writing while exploring the literature of contemporary authors. Students have the opportunity to read and analyze a variety of texts including nonfiction, short story, novel, drama, and poetry. Additionally, students will participate in analytic reading, and examination of effective models for writing while also studying grammar and vocabulary.

HUMANITIES BLOCK: SOPHOMORES

HONORS PATH  ENGLISH II HONORS & WORLD HISTORY HONORS (REGISTER FOR BOTH)

WORLD HISTORY HONORS

ENGLISH II HONORS

85450 S1/S2

50340 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 10

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

World History Honors will begin with the rise of the modern nation state and conclude in the modern era. It emphasizes clear and effective writing while exploring the literature of contemporary authors.  Students have the opportunity to read and analyze a variety of texts including nonfiction, short story, novel, drama, and poetry. Additionally, students will participate in analytic reading, and examination of effective models for writing while also studying grammar and vocabulary.

US HISTORY: 1877 - PRESENT

85650 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE:  9

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

NOTE: Freshmen who register for US History must register for English I (regular pathway).

Students learn about many developments in American history since 1877, both in the area of domestic affairs and foreign affairs. Students examine topics such as immigration, the industrial revolution and the rise of a post-industrial economy, the cycle of expansion and recession/depression in our economy, the American tendency to swing back and forth between liberalism and conservatism, the twists and turns of US foreign policy, and the wars fought by this nation since 1877. All of these developments are explored through four different historical lenses: political, military, economic, and social. The ultimate goal is for students to gain a better understanding of the United States they live in today.

US HISTORY: 1877-PRESENT HONORS

85552 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 9

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

NOTE: Freshmen who register for US History Honors must register for English I Honors (honors pathway). This course is an interdisciplinary Humanities block; however, the Honors course challenges students to go beyond the traditional curricular study to pursue a more in-depth investigation of the content. The course is demanding and will require a greater commitment of time and effort. Students should also expect to read texts of greater volume and difficulty. This course will focus on preparing students for future Advanced Placement (AP) classes.

Students who plan to take Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate classes are encouraged to enroll in honors courses. Honors courses are specifically designed to develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills that support success in higher level courses and post-secondary success.

MODERN WORLD HISTORY

85380 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 10

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

Modern World History will begin with the rise of the modern nation state and conclude in the modern era. It emphasizes clear and effective writing while exploring the literature of contemporary authors. Students have the opportunity to read and analyze a variety of texts including nonfiction, short story, novel, drama, and poetry. Additionally, students will participate in analytic reading, and examination of effective models for writing while also studying grammar and vocabulary.

WORLD HISTORY HONORS

85450 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 10

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

Modern World History will begin with the rise of the modern nation state and conclude in the modern era. It emphasizes clear and effective writing while exploring the literature of contemporary authors.  Students have the opportunity to read and analyze a variety of texts including nonfiction, short story, novel, drama, and poetry. Additionally, students will participate in analytic reading, and examination of effective models for writing while also studying grammar and vocabulary.

US ECONOMICS

85800

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

This semester-long course examines basic micro and macro economic concepts and the types of economic systems. With emphasis on the modern American economy, students will examine and analyze investments, productivity, fiscal and monetary policies. This class meets the district’s requirements and standards for Economics.

US GOVERNMENT

85700

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit) 

GRADE: 12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

This semester-long course examines the basic concepts of government systems with particular emphasis on the American Constitution. Students will examine the founding principles of the United States through the lens of current events. The class meets the district’s requirements and standards for Government.

GEOGRAPHY

85834

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit) 

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

This semester-long class examines both physical and cultural geography. Besides learning basic geographic knowledge and themes, students will wrestle with issues in the areas of development, population, food supply, energy, the environment, cities, and the future. This class meets the District's requirements and standards for Geography.

PSYCHOLOGY

85750

CREDIT:   0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

This course focuses on the essential questions concerning human behavior.  In Psychology, students will address these issues through an examination of current research on the functions of the brain and through analyzing various environmental influences in order to assess their relative impacts upon behavior. This single semester class meets the District’s requirements for Social Studies elective credit.  Because Psychology is for elective credit, students must check with their counselor to be sure all District Social Studies requirements have been completed.

SOCIOLOGY

85770

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

This semester-long class will examine the scientific study of human social relationships and group life. Social interaction, or the responses of individuals to each other, is the basic sociological concept, because such interaction is the elementary component of all relationships and groups that make up society. Students will discuss the roles of family, gender, class, race, etc. Sociology is an elective credit. Students must check with their counselor to ensure all District Social Studies requirements have been completed.

WORLD RELIGIONS

85870

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

This course will prepare the student to understand and participate in the ever-increasing interactions among all nations and cultures of the world. The student will leave the class with basic knowledge of the five major religions of the world along with a stronger philosophical understanding of themselves and of other peoples and cultures. This knowledge is imperative in preparation for college and the international world that our students are inheriting.

CONTEMPORARY WORLD ISSUES

85745

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

Potential topics to be covered include, but are not limited to: U.S.-Middle East foreign policy, human rights struggles around the world, energy usage and resources, the United States debt, the effects of technology on well-being, the study of happiness, and Colorado political and economic issues.

Students will be required to stay current on world, national, and local issues of importance. This upper level course will focus on the analysis and interpretation of contemporary domestic and world issues. Students will examine current events through themes such as Power, Conflict, Justice, and Technology. Debate, research, discussion, critical thinking, and media analysis are all skills that will be applied during the course of the semester.

PHILOSOPHY

50908

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

This course will introduce students to some of the “classics” of western philosophy. We will read and discuss some of the most influential thinkers in the history of western philosophy. The readings will span more than two thousand years of western thought in which students will see how important philosophical ideas have changed over time.

Perhaps the most important thing to be gained from this class is not an acquaintance with various facts and theories from the history of philosophy, but the development of reasoning skills. The study of philosophy develops one's ability to think carefully and critically. The objective of this course is to enable students to be reflective about the beliefs that they or their society have developed

AP WORLD HISTORY

85340 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 10-12

FEES: It is strongly encouraged students purchase the recommended AP textbook.

AP EXAM: Students are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of US History with grade “C” or better

The purpose of the AP World History course is to develop a greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and contacts in interaction with different types of human societies. This understanding is advanced through a combination of selective factual knowledge and appropriate analytical skills. The course highlights the nature of changes in international frameworks and their causes and consequences, as well as comparisons among major societies. The course emphasizes relevant factual knowledge deployed in conjunction with leading interpretive issues and types of historical evidence. The course builds on an understanding of culture, institutional, and technological precedents that, along with geography, set the human stage. Periodization, explicitly discussed, forms an organizing principle for dealing with change and continuity throughout the course.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits.

These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an Advanced Placement (AP) course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. This is a one-year course; students may not drop at semester. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY

85905 S1/S2

CREDIT:  1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 9-12

FEES: It is strongly recommended that students purchase the recommended AP textbook.

AP EXAM: Students are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITE: none 

If taking 9th or 10th grade, must also be enrolled in US History (9th grade) or world history (10th grade).

AP Human Geography is an introductory college-level human geography course. Students cultivate their understanding of human geography through data and geographic analyses as they explore topics like patterns and spatial organization, human impacts and interactions with their environment, and spatial processes and societal changes. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP MACROECONOMICS

85631

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: It is strongly recommended that students purchase the recommended AP textbook.

AP EXAM: Students are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $97).

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of World History or AP World History with grade “C” or better

AP Macroeconomics is an exciting and important course that teaches students to understand economics on a large scale, including the economies of nations. You learn basic economic concepts as well as how to understand and interpret GDP, unemployment, and inflation to measure the economic performance of a nation. You will also learn about the financial sector which includes the Federal Reserve, monetary and fiscal policy, and money. This course is open to all and is highly recommended for students interested in business, finance, and the social sciences. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP PSYCHOLOGY

85760 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12cte

FEES: It is strongly recommended students purchase the recommended AP textbook.

AP EXAM: Students are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITE: None

This year-long course for juniors or seniors is designed to introduce the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Included is a consideration of the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. Students also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice.

AP courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits.

These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an AP course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. This is a one-year course; students may not drop at semester. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP US GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

85720

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 12

FEES: It is strongly recommended that students purchase the recommended AP textbook.

AP EXAM: Students are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of World History or AP World History with grade “C” or better

This semester-long course will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. This course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific examples. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S politics. The Advanced Placement (AP)  Program is designed to provide students with a college level academic experience. Students successfully mastering the course material may earn college on the AP National Exam. Because this AP course is a college level elective, students will be asked to purchase their materials in accordance with Douglas County Board of Education policy.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits.

These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an Advanced Placement (AP) course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP US HISTORY

85625 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0  (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: It is strongly encouraged that students purchase the recommended AP textbook.

AP EXAM: Students are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of World History or AP World History with grade “C” or better

This year-long course for seniors is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and issues in US History. The course exposes students to a college level academic experience in the major cultural, social, political, economic, and historical issues found in US History from 1492 to present. Students successfully mastering the course material may earn college credit on the AP US History exam, which is administered annually. Because this AP course is a college level elective, students will be asked to purchase their materials in accordance with Douglas County Board of Education policy.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits.

These courses require work outside the classroom, during summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an Advanced Placement (AP)  course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. This is a one-year course; students may not drop at semester. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP EUROPEAN HISTORY

85500 S1/S2

CREDIT:  1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: It is strongly recommended that students purchase the recommended AP textbook.

AP EXAM: Students are expected to take the National AP Exam in May (approx. $98).

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of World History or AP World History with grade “C” or better.

AP European History is an introductory college-level European history course. Students cultivate their understanding of European history through analyzing historical sources and learning to make connections and craft historical arguments as they explore concepts like interaction of Europe and the world; economic and commercial developments; cultural and intellectual developments; states and other institutions of power; social organization and development; national and European identity; and technological and scientific innovation.

Graduation Competency Eligible - A score of 2 or higher on the AP exam in this course will satisfy the graduation competency requirement for English.

IB EUROPEAN HISTORY HL I      

85516 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May of senior year ($119).

PREREQUISITE: Recommended Honors History 9 and Honors History 10 or AP World History.

IB European History HL I is the first year of a two-year sequence. Students selecting HL courses during the junior year are committed to completing the senior year of the two-year sequence. Non-IB Diploma Students also have the opportunity to take this as a course without committing to the two-year sequence.

  • IB History is a required course for IB Diploma students.
  • Availability for course students is  based upon diploma student enrollment.
  • This course explores political, economic, social, and intellectual currents in the development of Europe from 1500-1940
  • Particular emphasis is given to the history of Europe
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB 20TH CENTURY EUROPE HL II

85805 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0   (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11 or 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITE:Successful completion of IB European History HL I if testing HL. None if testing SL.

This course is the second year of a two-year course sequence at the Higher Level. It is also open to IB Course students as a one-year History SL course.

Course description:

  • This is a required course for the International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme.
  • Availability for course students is based upon diploma student enrollment.
  • This course will examine the nature of 20th century conflicts. Focus will be on World War II and the Cold War with  the creation of contemporary Europe.
  • The course develops in students an international awareness and understanding by promoting empathy with, and understanding of people living in diverse places and at different times.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB Global Politics SL

 85729 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0   (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11 or 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITE:None

Course description:

  • IB Global Politics prepares students to take the International Baccalaureate Global Politics exams at the standard level
  • This course explores fundamental political concepts such as power, equality, sustainability and peace in a range of contexts.
  • It allows students to develop an understanding of the local, national, international and global dimensions of political activity and processes, as well as to explore political issues affecting their own lives.
  • The course helps students to understand abstract political concepts by grounding them in real-world examples and case studies. It also invites comparisons between such examples and case studies to ensure a wider and transnational perspective. The core units of the course together make up a central unifying theme of “people, power and politics”.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE (TOK I)

85885

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 11

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

Theory of Knowledge is a course that challenges students to reexamine all that they have learned to date, to become more aware of both themselves as thinkers and the fantastic complexity of knowledge. Structured as a thoughtful and purposeful inquiry into different ways of knowing, and into different kinds of knowledge, TOK is composed almost entirely of questions. The course is centered around the questions of “What is knowledge?” and "How do we know what we know?  Therefore, students will continually be asked to reflect critically on how and what they have learned.  Questions surrounding beliefs, certainty, culture, evidence, interpretation, intuition, and truth will be explored. Through discussions of these and other questions, students gain greater awareness of their personal and ideological assumptions and develop an appreciation of the diversity and richness of cultural perspectives. TOK is a mandatory component of the IB Diploma Programme, but is also open to any and all students interested in asking the more significant questions about knowledge, human existence, and life.

  • This course fulfills the requirements for the IB Diploma Programme.
  • Open to non-IB diploma students, however, availability is based upon diploma student enrollment.
  • This course is only available in the Spring semester. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE (TOK II)

85884

CREDIT: 0.5 (Social Studies credit)

GRADE: 12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: TOK II is the second semester of a two semester sequence. Students must have successfully completed TOK I

Fulfills the requirements for the IB Diploma Programme.

Course description:

  • This course is unique to the IBDP and is an interdisciplinary requirement intended to stimulate critical reflection on the knowledge and experience gained inside and outside the classroom.
  • This course challenges students to explore the basis of knowledge, the way we know what we know, to examine questions of bias and to develop the ability to analyze evidence expressed in argument.
  • This course spans the second semester of Junior year and first semester of Senior year. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

FINE ARTS (FNA)

POSTSECONDARY PATHWAY

Introductory Level

Intermediate Level

Advanced Level

College Level

Postsecondary Prep

Adaptive Art

Art Experience I

Ceramics I

Drawing & Painting I

CTE Graphic Design & Illustration I (A)

Jewelry I

CTE Commercial Photography I (A)

Sculpture I

Mass Media & Communication

Ceramics II

Drawing & Painting II

CTE Graphic Design and Illustration I (B)

Jewelry II

CTE Commercial Photography I (B)

Sculpture II

Ceramics III

Ceramics IV

Drawing & Painting III

Drawing & Painting IV

CTEGraphic Design and Illustration II (A)

CTEGraphic Design and Illustration II (B)

Jewelry III
Jewelry IV

CTE Commercial Photography II (A)

CTE Commercial Photography II (B)

AP Art/Design 2D

AP Art/Design 3D: Ceramics

AP Art/Design 2D:

AP Drawing

AP Art/Design 2D: Graphic Design

AP Art/Design 2D: Photography

IB Track

IB Art Design HL I

IB Art and Design HL II

ADAPTIVE ART

15402

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: None

Adaptive art is an introductory collaborative course providing specialized instruction, uniting peer helpers with special needs students. Working in pairs, students will create art projects using a variety of media and processes, including but not limited to painting, drawing, photography, clay, printmaking, mixed media and sculpture.

ART EXPERIENCE I

15400

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: None

Art Experience is a broad-based, foundational art course in which students will engage with a wide variety of materials and processes, both 2-D and 3-D, build solid understanding of art fundamentals appropriate to all future art courses, and explore the importance of art in the world.  

CTE GRAPHIC DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION I (A)

7903101S1

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9 -12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester 

PREREQUISITES:  None

This entry level course is for training in the visual communication portion of all media businesses. Students learn about a career in the many kinds of media and graphic design and illustration jobs. Digital photography and working towards the intermediate level use of image editing and drawing programs are strongly focused upon in this class. This is helpful for any future photographer, videographer, animator or advertiser. Students will begin developing a high quality portfolio for college or design school.

CTE GRAPHIC DESIGN & ILLUSTRATION I  (B)

7903101S2

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of CTE Graphic Design & Illustration (A)

This entry level course is for training in the visual communication portion of all media businesses. Students learn about a career in the many kinds of media and graphic design and illustration jobs. Digital photography and working towards the intermediate level use of image editing and drawing programs are strongly focused upon in this class. This is helpful for any future photographer, videographer, animator or advertiser. Students will begin developing a high quality portfolio for college or design school.

GRAPHIC DESIGN & Illustration  II (A)

7903201S1

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester 

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Graphic Design I (B) with a grade of  ”C” or better

Design portfolios are expanded upon and improved in this second year of Graphic Design and Illustration. There is study of college art and media programs. More time is spent learning advanced concepts in illustration and the advertising and media business as well as new software programs while continuing to hone skills in image editing and digital photography. Large format printing of projects is common in this class

GRAPHIC DESIGN & Illustration II (B)

7903201S2 (B)

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester 

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Graphic Design II (A) with a grade of  ”C” or better

Design portfolios are expanded upon and improved in this second year of Graphic Design and Illustration. There is study of college art and media programs. More time is spent learning advanced concepts in illustration and the advertising and media business as well as new software programs while continuing to hone skills in image editing and digital photography. Large format printing of projects is common in this class.

CERAMICS I

15425

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. Additional $25 project fees applies

PREREQUISITES: None

Ceramics I is an introduction to three-dimensional design in clay, focusing on hand-building and surface techniques with an introduction to wheel throwing. Additional variable project fees may apply

CERAMICS II  

15430

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. Additional $30 project fees applies

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Ceramics I with a grade of ”C” or better

This is a continuation of Ceramics I with emphasis on techniques, forms, designs and proficiency in wheel throwing.

CERAMICS III

15435

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. Additional $35 project fees applies

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Ceramics II with a grade of ”C” or better 

This is a continuation of Ceramics II with an emphasis on advanced technique, form, and design.

CERAMICS IV

15440

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. Additional $30 project fees applies

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Ceramics III with a grade of ”C” or better

Students will work on individual advanced projects with an emphasis on portfolio development.

DRAWING & PAINTING I

15500

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: None

This course focuses on drawing and painting techniques using a variety of media and styles.

DRAWING & PAINTING II

15505

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Drawing & Painting I with a grade of ”C” or better

Students will focus on more advanced drawing and painting media, techniques, and artistic styles. Individual expression and personal style are encouraged.

DRAWING & PAINTING III

15510

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Drawing & Painting II with a grade of ”C” or better

This course allows the serious art student to further develop skills, ideas, creativity in drawing and painting to build a portfolio or a body of work.

DRAWING & PAINTING IV

15515

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10 -12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Drawing & Painting III with a grade of ”C” or better 

Students will work on individual advanced projects with an emphasis on portfolio development.

JEWELRY I

15525

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 course per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. Additional $35 project fees applies.

PREREQUISITES: None

This course is an introduction to the design and construction of jewelry involving a variety of tools and techniques.  Nickel, copper and brass are the materials we will be working with throughout the semester to create everything from rings to pendants and earrings.

JEWELRY II

15530

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. Additional $25 project fees applies

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Jewelry I with a grade of ”C” or better 

This course is designed to allow students a continued experience in jewelry making. Conceptual design development and advanced jewelry techniques will be explored as well as lost wax casting in silver.

JEWELRY III

15535

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. Additional $25 project fees applies

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Jewelry II with a grade of ”C” or better

Jewelry 3 and 4: These courses focus on the development of creating a personal jewelry portfolio with the intent of pursuing a career or higher education in jewelry.  Students will develop a body of work over the semester by budgeting their materials, designing, building, documenting their process (photos and videos) and presenting their work in person and online after building a personal website.

JEWELRY IV

15540

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $40 course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. Additional $25 project fee applies.

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Jewelry III with a grade of ”C” or better

Jewelry 3 and 4: These courses focus on the development of creating a personal jewelry portfolio with the intent of pursuing a career or higher education in jewelry.  Students will develop a body of work over the semester by budgeting their materials, designing, building, documenting their process (photos and videos) and presenting their work in person and online after building a personal website.

CTE Commercial PHOTOGRAPHY I (A)

7903102S1

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: None

This course is an introduction to photography as a fine art medium and develops skills necessary for basic camera and computer lab operation. Students will shoot their own pictures using digital cameras and enhance the photos using Photoshop.

CTE Commercial PHOTOGRAPHY I (B)

7903202S2

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES:Must pass Photography I (A) with a grade of “C” or better 

This course is an introduction to photography as a fine art medium and develops skills necessary for basic camera and computer lab operation. Students will shoot their own pictures using digital cameras and enhance the photos using Photoshop.

CTE Commercial PHOTOGRAPHY II (A)

7903202S1

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Photography I (B) with a grade of “C” or better

Course emphasizes the needs of commercial photographers with regard to technical expertise, creativity, and professional equipment. Technical aspects include film to digital transfer, lighting, digital image manipulation, alternative processes, large format camera work and stock photography. Creative exploration of subject matter, lighting, color theory and other psychological characteristics in the development of images are studied. A variety of photographic equipment is utilized for the studio and on location. Students are expected to create a portfolio of work for both print and electronic formats

CTE Commercial PHOTOGRAPHY II (B)

7903202S2

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES:

Course emphasizes the needs of commercial photographers with regard to technical expertise, creativity, and professional equipment. Technical aspects include film to digital transfer, lighting, digital image manipulation, alternative processes, large format camera work and stock photography. Creative exploration of subject matter, lighting, color theory and other psychological characteristics in the development of images are studied. A variety of photographic equipment is utilized for the studio and on location. Students are expected to create a portfolio of work for both print and electronic formats.

SCULPTURE I

15550

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: None

This course is an introduction to the manipulation of mass within space.  Students are led  through an exploration of materials employing classical techniques to express themselves through form with an emphasis on craftsmanship and presentation.

SCULPTURE II

15555

CREDITS: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials

PREREQUISITES: Must pass Sculpture I with a grade of ”C” or better

This course continues to explore the creative process of creating 3D forms, but with greater refinement and difficulty.  Traditional sculpting materials of plaster, wood, stone and metal are used to create multiple types of armature based, functional, kinetic, and bas relief sculptures. During Spring Semester, Sculpture 2 and 3 students will also participate in our annual Billy Cart race in which students must design, build and race their own gravity powered vehicles.

 

Mass Media and Communication

50550

 CREDITS: 0.5 Elective credit (FNA)

 GRADES: 9-12

 FEES: $35 to cover the cost of consumables.

 PREREQUISITES: None

Students will develop professional skills essential for competence in electronic news writing and editing, photography and videography, social media management and basic production. They will study and evaluate issues facing electronic news, learn basic reporting, use of equipment and presentation. They will combine their knowledge of these skills to instruction in communication skills, to understand how media functions in a community and to introduce technical skills involved with a professional media website. During the course students will work in a variety of roles – reporter, editor, photographer, producer and website manager.

 

  AP ART & DESIGN 2D

  AP ART & DESIGN 3D:   CERAMICS

  AP ART & DESIGN 2D:   GRAPHIC DESIGN

  AP ART & DESIGN 3D:   JEWELRY

  AP ART & DESIGN 2D:   PHOTOGRAPHY

  AP ART & DESIGN 3D:   SCULPTURE

  AP DRAWING

15474 S1/S2

15479 S1/S2

15477 S1/S2

15480 S1/S2

15478 S1/S2

15481 S1/S2

15476 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials/AP Exam: Students are expected to take the National AP Exam (submit portfolio) in May ($98).

PREREQUISITES: Drawing and Painting I, II & III; Honors, Ceramics I, II & III; Jewelry I, II & III; Photography I & II or teacher recommendation or extensive portfolio.

The Advanced Placement (AP) Program in art is intended for highly motivated students who are seriously interested in the study and creation of art. Students should be aware that Advanced Placement (AP)  work involves significantly more time than the typical high school course and the program is not for the casually interested. Projects include a wide spectrum of media and methods. Students will complete an area of concentration with theme and media development. Students will also complete an area of breadth demonstrating a variety of skills, ideas, and media.  Students may choose to complete an AP portfolio in 2D design, 3D design, or Drawing.

Students may specialize in AP Studio Art-Drawing and Painting; AP Studio Art-Ceramics, AP Studio Art-Jewelry or AP Studio Art-Photography/Graphics.

Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. These courses require work outside the classroom, during breaks.  Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an Advanced Placement (AP) course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled. These are one-year courses; students may not drop at semester. Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB ART DESIGN HL I

11411 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 11

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials/

Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May of senior year ($119).

PREREQUISITES: Completion of a minimum of 2 semesters of art courses. (*See below.) 

This course is designed for the IB candidate intending to test at the Higher Level (HL). The first semester of the course will engage the student in explorations and experimentations in a variety of means and materials. The student will also keep a research journal. In the second semester of the course the student will create a body of artwork that demonstrates a self-directed purpose and communication. An H level student will also create a research workbook composed of daily entries. The student will be expected to produce a highly personal record of his/her own research in the appreciation and history of art and design. *Recommendation of a previous art instructor is required if the student is a transfer student. The IB candidate should have knowledge of basic art fundamentals.

IB Art Design HL I is the first year of a two- year sequence. Students selecting HL courses during the junior year are committed to completing the senior year of the two-year sequence. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB ART DESIGN HL II

 11415 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 12

FEES: $40 Course fee per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials.

Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May of senior year ($119).

PREREQUISITES: Prior to HL I, recommended 1 semester 2-Dimensional (2D) Art or 3-Dimensional (3D) Art

IB Art Design HL is a two-year sequence with IB exam submissions at the end of the second year. This course fulfills the Group 6 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to IB Course students on an availability basis.

  • This course is a two year course sequence at the Higher Level (HL). IB Visual Art provides students with explorations in a variety of means and materials.
  • Students will write reflections and research in the history of art and design.
  • The HL course is for the visual art student, with creative and imaginative abilities, who may pursue the visual arts at the university or college level.
  • Provides students with opportunities to make personal, socio-cultural and aesthetic experiences meaningful through the production and understanding of art.
  • Exemplifies and encourages an inquiring and integrated approach towards visual arts in their various historical and contemporary forms.
  • Promotes visual and contextual knowledge of art from various cultures.
  • Provides students with the common core elements in both HL and SL including an introduction to art concepts, art criticism and analysis, the acquisition of art studio techniques, media and skills, along with the relation of art to socio-cultural and historical contexts.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.


PERFORMING ARTS: MUSIC

The philosophy of the ThunderRidge High School Music Department is to foster personal, intellectual, and affective growth through quality musical performance resulting in activities promoting leadership, high quality, community, and collective effort. We also want to have fun! Daily attendance for rehearsals is imperative as you are contributing to a group effort and the group suffers when you are not there. In addition, consistent daily practice is required to  maintain and improve skills needed to positively contribute to the group.

Beginner

Intermediate

Advanced

Upper Advanced

Music

Guitar I

Piano I

Men’s Select Choir

Treble Choir

Guitar II

Piano II

Orchestra - String

Symphonic Band

Chamber Orchestra

Wind Ensemble

Women’s Select Choir

Select Mixed Choir

Jazz Ensemble I

Theatre

Theatre I

Technical Theatre I

Theatre II

Theatre III

Theatre IV Director

Theatre Production Ensemble

IB Theatre/RES SL II

Course #

Course

 Name

Cultural Projects

Prereq.

or

Audition  Req.

Field Trips

Outside

of

Class

Daily

Practice

Perform. Assess.

Tests

&

Quizzes

Concert

Attire

Required

Daily

Participation

Oral

Present

Instrument

Required

70461

Chamber Orchestra

70465

Orchestra

String

70500

Concert Choir

70487

Guitar I (Beginners)

70488

Guitar II

70565

Men’s Select Choir

70635

Women’s

Select Choir

70485

Piano

70630

Select Mixed Choir

70550

Select Treble Choir

70325

Symphonic Band

70300

Wind Ensemble

CHAMBER ORCHESTRA

 70461 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: Instrument rental - $100 per year (optional)

PERFORMANCE OUTFIT: Members are required to purchase a performance outfit (full-length black dress and/or tuxedo).

PREREQUISITE: Audition and/or director approval required.

This ensemble is the most advanced string ensemble in the TRHS Orchestra program. Emphasis will be on advanced ensemble techniques and advanced individual musicianship through performance of high quality literature. Private lessons are highly recommended for members of this ensemble. Daily attendance is imperative for this ensemble as the entire ensemble relies on your part being there. Excessive absences may result in removal from the group. Some string instruments are available to rent from the school. Out-of-school performances will be required and are part of the course grade.

ORCHESTRA -  STRING

70465 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Fine Arts credit (one year)

GRADES:  9-12

FEES: Instrument rental - $100 per year (optional)

PERFORMANCE OUTFIT: Members are required to purchase a performance outfit (full-length black dress and/or tuxedo).

PREREQUISITE: Audition and/or director approval required.

This ensemble is designed to develop musical skills through traditional orchestral instruments. Emphasis will be on continued technical and musical development on an instrument through a variety of literature.  Some string instruments are available to rent from the school. Out-of-school performances will be required.  Daily practice is required.

GUITAR I (Beginners)

70487

CREDIT: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Guitar textbook (approximately $7.00)

MATERIALS NEEDED: Your own acoustic guitar

PREREQUISITE: None

This course is an introduction to beginning guitar with focus on basic guitar skills including reading music, chords, and tablature. The course will also introduce various guitar styles such as folk, classical, blues, and rock. Students must provide their own acoustic guitar. Electric guitar is not taught, and electric guitars will not be used in this class.

GUITAR II

70488

CREDIT: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES:  Guitar book (approximately $7.00)

MATERIALS NEEDED: Your own acoustic guitar

PREREQUISITE: Approval from Instructor and possible audition required demonstrating ability to read music.

This course expands on our beginning guitar class. Emphasis is placed on music theory as it relates to the guitar, advanced chords, and will expand on various guitar styles, i.e. classical, rock, blues, etc. Electric guitar is not taught, and electric guitars will not be used in this class. Students must provide their own acoustic folk or classical guitar.

PIANO I

70485

CREDIT: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9 - 12

PREREQUISITE: None

FEES: None

This course is designed for the student with little or no piano keyboard experience. Basic musical skills like reading music, proper keyboard fingering, notes, and chords will be taught. The course will also introduce various musical styles, like classical, jazz, rock, and blues.

PIANO II

70486

CREDIT: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9 - 12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

This course is intended for students already capable of note playing and chord playing. Students will build upon basic knowledge learned in Piano I or private lessons by exploring specific keyboard styles and techniques, mre advanced structures, and small group playing. Admittance into this class is dependent on instructor approval.

SYMPHONIC BAND

70325 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1 Fine Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Instrument rental (optional)

        Percussion fee: $100

PREREQUISITE: None

The Symphonic Band will study and perform music from a diverse body of symphonic band repertoire. Participation at all performances is required. This ensemble is designed to develop musical skills through traditional band literature for higher-level instrumentalists. Emphasis will be on continued technical and musical development on an instrument through a variety of quality band literature. Some wind instruments are available to rent from the school. Out-of-school performances will be required, and are part of the course grade.

WIND ENSEMBLE

70300 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1 Fine Arts credit

GRADES:   9 - 12

FEES: Instrument rental (optional)

PREREQUISITE:   By audition only.

This band course is designed for advanced wind and percussion students. Students will continue with the development of quality individual and ensemble performance skills. The highest quality traditional and contemporary literature for wind band will be explored through intense instruction. This course may be repeated for credit.

Jazz Ensemble I

70375

Credit: 1.0 Fine Arts credit (one year)

GRADES:   9 - 12

FEES: Instrument rental (optional)

PREREQUISITE: Director Approval

This is an introductory level jazz experience for instrumentalists. This ensemble contains a traditional jazz instrumentation (5 saxes, 5 trombones, 5 trumpets, piano, guitar, bass and drums)as well as any other band or orchestra instruments.. Emphasis is on developing the skills to grow into Jazz Musicians. Participation in all performances outside of class  is required.

MEN’S SELECT CHOIR

70565 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Fine Arts credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Students are asked to purchase a performance outfit. Students are responsible for the cost of field trips.

PREREQUISITE: The willingness to sing and have fun!

This men's choir accepts male singers of any age with an enthusiasm for singing, and will perform at school and for community groups. Music of all styles will be performed. Rehearsals and performance schedules require some extracurricular commitment.

WOMEN’S SELECT CHOIR

70635 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Fine Arts credit (one year)

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: Students are asked to purchase a performance outfit. Students are responsible for the cost of field trips.

PREREQUISITE:  Audition required

Select Women’s Choir is composed of advanced choir students selected through extensive auditions based upon technical and aesthetic qualities. This varsity choir performs classical, jazz and show music at various concerts, festivals, contests, and community group events throughout the state. Rehearsals and performance schedules require extracurricular commitment.

TREBLE CHOIR

70550 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Fine Arts credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Students are asked to purchase a performance outfit. Students are responsible for the cost of field trips.

PREREQUISITE: None

Select Treble Choir is composed of intermediate choir students selected through extensive auditions based upon technical and aesthetic qualities. This varsity choir performs classical, jazz, and show music at various concerts. Rehearsals and performance schedules require extracurricular commitment.

SELECT MIXED CHOIR

70630 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Fine Arts credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Students are asked to purchase a performance outfit. Students are responsible for the cost of field trips.

PREREQUISITE:  Audition required

Select Mixed Choir is composed of advanced choir students selected through extensive auditions based upon technical and aesthetic qualities. This varsity choir performs classical, jazz, and show music at various concerts, festivals, contests, and community group events throughout the state. Rehearsals and performance schedules require extracurricular commitment.

PERFORMING ARTS:  THEATRE

         * These courses will require some directing

THEATRE I

70700

CREDIT: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADE: 9-12

FEES: $30 to cover the cost of consumable items

PREREQUISITES: None

This course offers the opportunity for a variety of performance experiences, which may include the following: scene work, monologues, stage combat, improvisation, and pantomime. Major emphasis of the class is on developing beginning acting skills and self esteem. It is suggested but not required,  students take Theatre I in the fall and Theatre II in the spring.

THEATRE II

70710

CREDIT: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADE: 9-12

FEES: $30 to cover the cost of consumable items

PREREQUISITES: Theatre I

As a continuation of Theatre I, this course extends development of acting skills and self esteem. Course work may include the following: scene work, monologues, improvisation, play and character analysis, auditioning, musical theatre, and Shakespeare. Participation in play production is encouraged.  It is suggested, but not required, that the student take Theatre I in the fall and Theatre II in the spring.

THEATRE III

70720 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Fine Arts credit

GRADE: 10-12

FEES: $30 per semester to cover the cost of consumable items

PREREQUISITES: Theatre I, Theatre II, and/or instructor’s approval

This course emphasizes the development of a higher level of acting skills. Course work may include the following: improvisation, play and character analysis, directing, theatre history, musical theatre, stage combat, and advanced acting techniques. Participation in play production is strongly encouraged. Work outside of class time is expected for rehearsal and performances.

THEATRE IV DIRECTOR  (STAGE DIRECTING AND ACTING)

70730 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Fine Arts credit

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: $30 per semester to cover the cost of consumable items

PREREQUISITES: Theatre I, Theatre II, Theatre III, and/or instructor’s approval

This class allows students to pursue the fundamentals of stage direction. Course work may include the following: directing and advanced acting, film directing, script and character analysis, and design concepts. Work outside of class time is expected for rehearsal and performances

THEATRE PRODUCTION ENSEMBLE

70755 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Fine Art Credit

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: $30 per semester to cover the cost of consumable items

PREREQUISITES: Audition and/or application

This audition-only course is for the advanced theatre student. Students will develop advanced production techniques. Play production is the core of this class. There will be after school production requirements.

TECHNICAL THEATRE I

70780

CREDIT: 0.5 Fine Arts credit

GRADE: 9-12

FEES: $30 to cover the cost of consumable items

PREREQUISITES: None

This course offers students the opportunity to participate in phases of stagecraft activities. Course work may include the following: scenery construction, stage lighting, make-up, sound, publicity, design, theatre organization management, and maintenance. This course can be taken for Practical Arts credit if the Fine Arts credit has been fulfilled

IB Theatre/RES  SL II

70836

CREDIT: 1 Fine Arts credit

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: $30 to cover the cost of consumable items

PREREQUISITES: Teacher Recommendation

Students research plays and theatre traditions, dramatic principles and conduct a research project. Students learn the fundamentals of stage direction and direct a one-act play.

Graduation Competency Eligible - A score of 4 or higher on the IB exam in this course will satisfy the graduation competency requirement for English.

PRACTICAL ART: BUSINESS and MARKETING (PRA)

POSTSECONDARY PATHWAY

Level I (9-12)

Level II (10-12)

Level III (11-12)

Level IV (12)

Post Secondary Prep

CTE Accounting Principles I

CTE Business & Marketing Essentials

ACC Intro PC Apps (CIS 1018) (Sem)


ACC Principles of Sales (MAR1011) (Fall Sem)

&

ACC Principles of Marketing (MAR 2016) (Spring Sem)


ACC Bus. Legal Enviro. (BUS 2016) (Sem)


ACC Social Media of Business (MAR 1055) (Spring Sem)

                  &

ACC Principles of Advertising (MAR 2020) (Fall Sem)


IB Business Management SL

IB Business Management HL

CTE ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES I

79061203S1/S1

CREDIT: 1.0 Practical Arts credit

GRADE: 9 -12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: None

In this year-long course, you will develop a basic understanding of accounting concepts and terminology. Students will complete the steps of the accounting cycle, including analyzing business transactions, journalizing, and preparing and interpreting financial statements. The class will explore banking, credit, and taxes. This course will give you the opportunity to build your critical thinking, collaboration, and problem-solving skills. Financial literacy and systems thinking will be a focus.

CTE ACCOUNTING PRINCIPLES II

79061309 S1/S1

CREDIT: 1.0 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

GRADE: 10 -12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES:Successful completion of CTE Acct. Prin. I

This course continues the application of accounting principles to business organizations. Major topics include corporate equity and debt financing, investments, cash flow statements, financial analysis, budgeting, cost and managerial accounting.

CTE BUSINESS AND MARKETING ESSENTIALS  (Marketing I)

7906110 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 Practical Arts credit  (PRA)

GRADE: 9-12

FEES: $30 per semester, DECA membership fee: $80

PREREQUISITES: None

Business and Marketing Essentials is an introductory course for students interested in marketing and business. The course explores the fundamentals of marketing including economics, sales, product/service planning, and promotion/advertising, marketing research, communications, legal and ethical issues, and marketing career development. A hands-on, project oriented approach is used to make the class interesting and fun. Active participation in DECA is an integral component of the curriculum. Membership in DECA is Highly recommended to all students.

 

CTE Business Communications

79061305

CREDIT: 0.5 Practical Arts credit  (PRA)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: $30 per semester, DECA membership fee: $80

PREREQUISITES: Business and Marketing Essentials

Emphasizes effective business writing and cover letters, memoranda, reports, application letters, and resumes. This course includes the fundamentals of business communication and an introduction to international communication.

CTE Ethical Leadership

79061105

CREDIT: 0.5 Practical Arts credit  (PRA)

GRADE:10-12

FEES: $30 per semester, DECA membership fee: $80

PREREQUISITES: Business and Marketing Essentials

Ethical Leadership is a principles-based ethics course introducing students to key leadership and ethical knowledge and skills, including integrity, trust, accountability, transparency, fairness, respect, rule of law, and viability. Throughout the course, students apply ethical principles to contemporary, real-world situations that teens and young adults often encounter in school, at home, with friends, and in entry-level job positions. They examine the concept of ethical leadership and strengthen their leadership and ethical decision-making skills through the planning, implementation, and evaluation of a class service-learning project.

ACC Personal Finance (BUS1016)

69016

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

ACC 3 credit hours, credit will be awarded for grades "C" or better.

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $15 per semester  to cover the cost of consumable materials.

PREREQUISITES: Students must have an ACC "S" number and fulfill all ACC Course Requirements

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

ACC Course: BUS 1016- Surveys the basic personal financial needs of most individuals. Emphasizes the basics of budgeting and buying, saving and borrowing money, the intricacies of home ownership, income tax and investments, and the wise use of insurance, wills, and trusts. Credits: 3 ACC; towards AAS in Business Administration, AAS in Convergent technology, Business/Accounting/CIS Certifications. Teacher Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in Business or Finance. Three to five years of experience in business-related profession. A Post-Secondary CTE credential in Business or Finance.

ACC PRINCIPLES OF SALES (MAR1011)

69009

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

ACC 3 credit hours, credit will be awarded for grades "C" or better.

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $15 per semester  to cover the cost of consumable materials.

DECA Membership Fee: $80

PREREQUISITES: Students must have an ACC "S" number and fulfill all ACC Course Requirements

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

ACC Course: MAR 1011- Principles of Sales Enables the student to understand and develop ethical sales techniques and covers the role of selling in the marketing process. Areas of emphasis include behavioral considerations in the buying and selling process and sales techniques.3 Credits ACC College Credits

ACC PRINCIPLES OF MARKETING (MAR2016)

69216 S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

ACC 4 credit hours, credit will be awarded for grades "C" or better.

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $15 per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. DECA membership fee: $80

PREREQUISITES: Marketing I & Instructor approval. Students must have an ACC "S" number

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

Presents the analysis of theoretical marketing processes and the strategies of product development, pricing, promotion and distribution, and their applications to businesses and the individual consumer.

ACC PRINCIPLES OF ADVERTISING (MAR2020)

69001 S1

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

ACC 3 credit hours, credit will be awarded for grades "C" or better.

GRADES: 11 - 12

FEES: $15 to cover the cost of consumable materials. DECA membership fee: $80

PREREQUISITES: Marketing or ACC Principles of Marketing & teacher recommendation. Students must have an ACC "S" number

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

Examines the principles and practices of advertising and its relationship to business in order to promote a business or organization. Areas of major emphasis include advertising principles, strategies, media, copy and layout, and ethical considerations.

ACC SOCIAL MEDIA OF BUSINESS   (MAR1055)

69217

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

ACC 3 credit hours. Credit will be awarded for grades "C" or higher.

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $15 per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials. $33 online workbook fee. DECA Membership Fee: $80

PREREQUISITES: Marketing or ACC Principles of Marketing & teacher recommendation.Students must have an ACC "S" number.

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

Teaches students how to use social media as a business strategy and covers how to match that strategy with the goals of the business. This course addresses current trends, ethics, regulations, legal challenges, strategy, content development, and change management. This course helps students develop a better understanding of how marketing with social media is similar to and different from traditional marketing and how to best use online methods to further business goals.

ACC BUSINESS IN THE LEGAL ENVIRONMENT (BUS 2016)

 69260

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

ACC 3 credit hours, credit will be awarded for grades "C" or better.

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $15 per semester; $120 FBLA membership fee

PREREQUISITES: Students must have an ACC "S" number.

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

Emphasizes public law, regulation of business, ethical considerations, and various relationships existing within society, government, and business. Specific attention is devoted to economic regulation, social regulation, regulation and laws impacting labor management issues, and environmental concerns. Students develop an understanding of the role of law in social, political, and economic change. This semester elective is designed to introduce the students to Business Law in their everyday lives. Emphasis is placed on the study of legal rights and obligations that individuals will encounter in everyday business transactions and in their personal life. Consideration is given to problems and situations that require analysis of rights and responsibilities in legal agreements and relationships. A survey of the court system is presented. The study of criminal law, tort law, and contract law will be emphasized. The course ends with a student-driven Mock Trial. This course qualifies students to participate in FBLA.

IB BUSINESS MANAGEMENT SL

25720 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

GRADES: 11 -12

FEES: DECA membership fee of $80 for those students who participate in DECA.

Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Marketing I

The Business Management Course is designed to develop students' knowledge and understanding of business management theories, as well as their ability to apply a range of tools and techniques. Students learn to analyze, discuss and evaluate business activities at local, national and international levels. The course covers a range of organizations from all sectors, as well and the sociocultural and economic contexts in which those organizations operate.

The course covers the key characteristics of business organization and environment, and the business functions of human resource management, finance and accounts, marketing and operations management. Links between the topics are central to the course. Through the exploration of six underpinning concepts (change, culture, ethics, globalization, innovation and strategy), the course allows students to develop a holistic understanding of today's complex and dynamic business environment. The conceptual learning is firmly anchored in business management theories, tools and techniques and placed in the context of real world examples and case studies. IBO

Distinction between Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL): The recommended teaching time is 240 hours (2 years) to complete HL courses and 150 hours (1 year) to complete SL.

IB Business Management may be taken as a one-year SL Course with exams in May or taken as a two-year sequence for IB Business Management HL with exams at the end of the second year. This course fulfills the Group 6 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to IB Course students on an availability basis. Submission of the Course Student Commitment Form to the IB office is required at the beginning of the course.

Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB BUSINESS MANAGEMENT HL

25721 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 1.0 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

GRADES: 12

FEES: DECA membership fee of $80 for those students who participate in DECA.

Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of IB Business Management SL and teacher recommendation.

The Business Management Course is designed to develop students' knowledge and understanding of business management theories, as well as their ability to apply a range of tools and techniques. Students learn to analyze, discuss and evaluate business activities at local, national and international levels. The course covers a range of organizations from all sectors,l and the sociocultural and economic contexts in which those organizations operate. The course covers the key characteristics of business organization and environment, and the business functions of human resource management, finance and accounts, marketing and operations management. Links between the topics are central to the course. Through the exploration of six underpinning concepts (change, culture, ethics, globalization, innovation and strategy), the course allows students to develop a holistic understanding of today's complex and dynamic business environment. The conceptual learning is firmly anchored in business management theories, tools and techniques and placed in the context of real world examples and case studies. Distinction between Standard Level (SL) and Higher Level (HL): The recommended teaching time is 240 hours (2 years) to complete HL courses and 150 hours (1 year) to complete SL.

IB Business Management may be taken as a one-year SL Course with exams in May or taken as a two-year sequence for IB Business Management HL with exams at the end of the second year. This course fulfills the Group 6 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to IB Course students on an availability basis. Submission of the Course Student Commitment Form to the IB office is required at the beginning of the course.

The Business Management Course is designed to develop students' knowledge and understanding of business management theories, as well as their ability to apply a range of tools and techniques.

  • Students learn to analyze, discuss and evaluate business activities at local, national and international levels.
  • The course covers a range of organizations from all sectors, as well as the sociocultural and economic contexts in which those organizations operate.
  • Students in HL are expected to complete extensions of the core units adding depth and breadth of the second year of study.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.


 

PRACTICAL ART: Computer & MULTIMEDIA TECHNOLOGY

POSTSECONDARY PATHWAY

Level I

Level II

Level III

Post Secondary Prep

ACC Intro To PC Application (CIS 1018)

CTE Digital Media

CTE Design & Multimedia Art

Digital Audio Production

CTE Animation I

AP Computer Science Principles

CTE Digital Media & Communications AVI

AP Computer Sci A

ACC INTRO TO PC APPLICATIONS (CIS1018)

69020

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

ACC 3 credit hours. Credit will be awarded for grades "C" or better.

GRADES: 9 - 12

FEES: $15 per semester, Purchase of a textbook

PREREQUISITES: Students must have an ACC "S" number. 

The registration fee may be covered by a stipend provided by the state of Colorado through the Colorado Opportunity Fund provided eligible students complete the necessary paperwork. Policies are dependent on ACC. This course receives both high school and college credit. *Students enrolled in this course must be concurrently enrolled in ACC.**

This course introduces computer concepts and components, as well as application-suite software and the Internet. It includes descriptions of hands-on experiences with word processing, spreadsheets, databases, presentations and other common PC application packages. Specifically, students will leave with advanced skills in Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint. Real-world projects or personal and professional use are incorporated into this class. Credit received in this class will be transferable to other Colorado colleges. Though the course number indicates semester one (S1), the class may be scheduled either first or second semester.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES

30506 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Students are expected to take the National AP exam in May ($98) 

PREREQUISITES:  None

AP Computer Science Principles is an introductory college-level computing course. Students cultivate their understanding of computer science through working with data, collaborating to solve problems, and developing computer programs as they explore concepts like creativity, abstraction, data and information, algorithms, programming, the internet, and the global impact of computing. Students will learn block coding, Scratch, and text based coding, Python. Weighted courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A

30505 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: Students are expected to take the National AP exam in May ($97)

PREREQUISITES:  AP Computer Science Principles

AP Computer Science A is an introductory college-level computer science course. Students cultivate their understanding

of coding through analyzing, writing, and testing code as they explore concepts like modularity, variables, and control   structures. Students will learn Java. Weighted courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for

 a D and zero points for an F.

CTE ANIMATION I

7903104

 CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit  (PRA)

 GRADES: 9-12

 FEES: $35 course fee

 PREREQUISITES: None

Animation I is an introduction to traditional animation. This course covers essential knowledge, skills, and concepts required for postsecondary fields of study. Upon completion of this course, students are able to describe various careers within animation, as well as admission requirements for postsecondary fields of study in Colorado. Students will digitally create both 2D animations and 3D computer-generated animations. The basic principles of design and animation will be covered that have been used by professionals. Students will have drawing assignments to help them in character design, layout, and story development. With the approval of the instructor, students may have the choice to complete major projects in either 2D or 3D.

CTE Digital Media

7903004

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $35 course fee per semester

PREREQUISITES:  None

In Digital Media, students will analyze and assess current and emerging technologies, while designing and creating multimedia projects that address customer needs and resolve a problem. Students will implement personal and interpersonal skills to prepare for a rapidly evolving workplace environment. The knowledge and skills acquired and practiced will enable students to successfully perform and interact in a technology-driven society. Students will enhance reading, writing, computing, communication, and critical thinking and apply them to the IT environment.

CTE Digital Media & Communications AVI

7903112

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES:$30.00 per semester

PREREQUISITES:  CTE Design & Multimedia Art

Students will move beyond the introductory level of electronic media for students to learn intermediate skills in video production. Prerequisites: Multimedia I or teacher approval.

CTE Design & Multimedia ART

7903001

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit (PRA)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $35 course fee per semester

PREREQUISITES: None

Students are introduced to the variety of programs and occupations in the arts, audio/video technology, and communication systems. Within this context, students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.

 


PRACTICAL ART: FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCE (PRA)

POSTSECONDARY PATHWAY

Level I

Level II

Level III

Post Secondary Prep

CTE Catering I

CTE Catering II

CTE Food Culinary Nutrition

CTE Educational Childhood and Adolescent Development

CTE Fashion Design I

CTE Interior Design Residential

CTE Educational Interpersonal Relationships

CTE Baking and Pastry A

CTE Fashion Design II

CTE Interior Design Commercial

MSU Prostart I

MSU Prostart II

CTE BAKING & PASTRY A

79101301S1

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $40 per semester

PREREQUISITES:  Catering I, Catering II or Culinary Nutrition

This first semester course is intended for students who have an interest in pursuing a career in the hospitality and culinary industry. Combining advanced food science, restaurant management, food preparation techniques, and real-world internship opportunities, students, through baking and pastry arts, learn to develop their culinary skills and food knowledge to become employable and sought after employees by local foodservice businesses.

CTE CATERING I  

79101202 S1

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES $100 course fee per semester

PREREQUISITES: None

Catering is a culinary class designed for the beginning and advanced student. Students will develop skills in safety & sanitation, basic food preparation techniques, knife skills, baking, cooking methods, creative meal planning, plate presentation and customer service. Students will also cater a school event for class credit. This class is a great jump start into the ProStart program. Meets graduation requirements in Practical Arts.

CTE CATERING II

79101203 S2

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $100 course fee per semester

PREREQUISITES: None

This is an intermediate culinary class that expands on techniques and skills, providing students with the opportunity to expand on their own culinary expertise, cater events, and discover food traditions from around the world. Students will apply their knowledge in the numerous culinary areas through weekly labs. This is a perfect intermediate class for students interested in entering the restaurant, hospitality, or lodging fields.

CTE EDUCATIONAL CHILD & ADOLESCENT DEVELOPMENT

79102107S1

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES:  None

PREREQUISITES:  None

Whether there is an interest in working with children, applying knowledge to a future family, or even learning more about younger family members, this course is designed to introduce students to early childhood development. It provides an overview of intellectual, physical, social, and emotional development from birth to elementary age. In addition, parenting and prenatal development are essential components to the course. An exciting aspect of this course is getting the opportunity to participate in the infant simulator.

CTE FOOD CULINARY NUTRITION

79101102

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $40 per semester

PREREQUISITES: None

Culinary Nutrition provides students the opportunity to develop lifelong and healthy habits with an understanding of nutritious food preparation techniques utilizing a variety of resources and skills. Emphasis is placed on implementing healthy nutritional choices, preparing nutrient-dense seasonal foods, sports nutrition, exploring careers related to culinary nutrition, and practicing educated consumer decisions.

CTE FASHION DESIGN I  

79103201

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $20 per semester

PREREQUISITES: None

This is the first class of two that explores the wholesale and retail apparel industry. It examines past, present, and future fashion trends, basic design terms, and the design process. The class uses a combination of hands-on projects and computer technology to evaluate personal characteristics and applies the elements and principles of design to meet specific needs. Various illustration techniques and different career opportunities will be explored.

CTE FASHION DESIGN II

79103202

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $20 per semester, $30 for FCCLA fees.

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of CTE Fashion Design and Merchandising I, with a grade of ‘C’ or better.

This semester-length course is designed to develop career interest in the fashion/design industry by accentuating concepts that were introduced in Fashion Design I. Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) will also be integrated into the course.

CTE INTERIOR DESIGN RESIDENTIAL

79103203

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $20 per semester

PREREQUISITES: None

Investigate careers in the exciting and growing field of interior design through a project oriented, hands-on class. Opportunities are presented to design structural space and experiment with actual samples to create attractive and functional living spaces using the elements and principles of design. Meets graduation requirements in Practical Arts.

CTE INTERIOR DESIGN COMMERCIAL  

79103204

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $20 per semester

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of CTE Interior Design Residential

Students enrolled in this project-based class will continue exploring the exciting and diverse field of interior design. Students will enrich their knowledge of design principles by arranging interior spaces for commercial buildings. Students will demonstrate their knowledge of these topics by completing projects that meet professional standards.

CTE EDUCATIONAL INTERPERSONAL RELATIONSHIPS

79102104

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: None

The focus of this course is on the family, understanding yourself and others, and being able to recognize the components of a healthy and satisfying relationship. Learning about personal relationships and marital relationships will help you understand the fundamental elements required to build a healthy family unit. This course also covers the principles of effective communication and offers coping strategies for everyday life.

PROSTART    (PRA)

Click here to go to the ProStart website

MSU PROSTART I Year 1 of 2 year program (RST 1550) FOOD FUNDAMENTALS

79101205 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Practical Arts credit.

4.0 MSU credits upon successful completion of course with a grade of ‘C” or higher

GRADES:  10-12

(recommended for 11th)

FEES: Course fee of $100 per semester

PREREQUISITES: None, but highly recommend CTE Catering I or II, OR CTE Food Culinary Nutrition

*Concurrent enrollment with Metro State University

ProStart is a food service hospitality management program that covers topics such as management, communication, nutrition, marketing, global cuisine, cost control, and cooking methods.This course is offered to sophomores, juniors and seniors and receives both high school and college credits. To earn a ProStart Certificate of Achievement,* students must complete both ProStart I and ProStart II (both semesters).

*To earn the ProStart certificate, students will need to complete ProStart I and II, obtain 400 hours of work experience (within the 2 years), earn a 70% or higher achievement in both classes, and pass national exams for both years

Meets graduation requirements in: Practical Arts.

MSU PROSTART II Year 2 of 2 year program (RST 2550) FOOD FUNDAMENTALS

79101304 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Practical Arts credit.

4.0 MSU credits upon successful completion of course with a grade of ‘C” or higher

GRADES: 11-12 (recommended for 12th)

FEES: Course fee of $100 per semester

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of ProStart I with a grade of ‘C’ or higher.

*Concurrent enrollment with Metro State University

ProStart is a food service hospitality management program that covers topics such as management, communication, nutrition, marketing, global cuisine, cost control, and cooking methods.This course is offered to sophomores, juniors and seniors and receives both high school and college credits. To earn a ProStart Certificate of Achievement,* students must complete both ProStart I and ProStart II (both semesters).

*To earn the ProStart certificate, students will need to complete ProStart I and II, obtain 400 hours of work experience (within the 2 years), earn a 70% or higher achievement in both classes, and pass national exams for both years

Meets graduation requirements in: Practical Arts.

SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING & MATH (STEAM)

POST SECONDARY PATHWAY

Level I

Level II

Level III

Level IV

Post secondary Prep

Introduction to Engineering

Engineering I

Engineering II

INTRODUCTION TO ENGINEERING

80345

CREDIT: 0.5 Practical Art Credit

GRADES:  9-12

FEES: Course fee of $50; TI-83 or higher graphing calculator recommended

PREREQUISITES: Algebra I

Introduction to Engineering is a class designed to open the door on engineering foundations and their application in the real world. Topics of study may include, but are not limited to, engineering analysis, testing, physics, planning and design, digital manufacturing design and fabrication, intelligent systems biorobotics, dynamic logic and sensory imaging, and aerospace rocketry-aerodynamic engineering. It is highly recommended that students have access to a graphing calculator.

ENGINEERING I

80332

CREDIT: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $50

PREREQUISITES: Introduction to Engineering

This course offers students the opportunity to work with robotic kits to explore design, gear systems, sensor technology, and programming. They will also experience a shift from prefabricated components to ones designed and fabricated in-class.  Students will work in small teams to compete against classmates in a  Robot Olympiad.  Possible events include robot soccer, drag racing, sensor based line-follow, and a Mars rover challenge.  Students will use the 7-Step engineering process to develop and test their robots and will conclude the class by exploring careers that involve robotics..

ENGINEERING II

80334

CREDIT: 0.5 Practical Arts Credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: Course fee of $50

PREREQUISITES: Intro to Eng. and Engineering I

This course offers students the opportunity to practice engineering concepts in a modular lab design. Students will complete short introductory rotations on modules designed to provide hands-on experience with engineering applications. These applications may include and are not limited to: wind tunnel technology, pneumatics, sensor technology, materials testing, design of structures, GPS technologies, mechanical systems, etc. The focus is on developing skills that the students can apply to projects and to motivate them to continue their learning in math and science.

PRACTICAL ART: CTE INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY (PRA)

ABOUT CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION (CTE)

The Colorado Community College System (CCCS) oversees Career and Technical Education for all students in Colorado. CCCS and CDE collaborate regularly on this important work to increase the postsecondary and workforce readiness of all Colorado students. For much more information about CTE programming in Colorado, please see the official CTE website.

The Overall Goals and Outcomes of CTE is to provide quality educational programs emphasizing core academic content, Postsecondary & Workforce Readiness (PWR) competencies, technical skills, and seamless transition to further education or employment and better prepare students, including special populations to meet challenges of the workforce, economic development, and emerging occupations.

POSTSECONDARY PATHWAY

Introductory Level

Intermediate Level

Advanced Level

Postsecondary Prep

CTE Woodworking Tech A

CTE Intro to Welding

CTE Woodworking Tech B

Welding Tech I/II

Woodworking III

CTE Principles of Construction

Welding Tech III/IV

CTE PRINCIPLES OF CONSTRUCTION

79070101

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 per semester to cover the cost of consumable materials, $6 goggle fee. Additional variable project fees may apply

PREREQUISITES: 

Successful Completion of Woodworking Tech A

Principles of Construction is a foundational course in the Architecture & Construction cluster covering essential 7 knowledge, skills, and concepts required for careers in construction. Upon completion of this course, proficient students will be able to describe various construction fields and outline the steps necessary to advance in specific construction careers. Students will be able to employ tools safely and interpret construction drawings to complete projects demonstrating proper measurement and application of mathematical concepts. Standards in this course also include an overview of the construction industry and an introduction to building systems and materials.

CTE WOODWORKING TECH A

79070102 S1

CREDITS: 0.5  Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 per semester to cover the cost of consumable

materials, $6 goggle fee, Additional variable project fees may apply

PREREQUISITES: None

This course provides an overview of the planning, design, layout, and technical drawing interpretation for practical use in woodworking, cabinetmaking, and mill working. Different cabinet and furniture styles used, various wood products and materials, and proper tool selection may also be covered. Students will be introduced to the different construction processes in the cabinetmaking, furniture making, and millwork industries. Students will learn about measurement, layout, shop drawings and cutting lists. They will gain a basic understanding of the various kinds of materials used in the industry. Students will learn to use selected woodworking tools and machinery. Correct and safe use of tools and equipment is emphasized. The construction of several projects will develop student’s woodworking skills.

CTE WOODWORKING TECH B

79070102 S2

CREDITS: 0.5  Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $40 per semester to cover the cost of consumable

materials, $6 goggle fee, Additional variable project fees may apply

PREREQUISITES: Successful Completion of Woodworking Tech A

This course provides an overview of the planning, design, layout, and technical drawing interpretation for practical use in woodworking, cabinetmaking, and mill working. Different cabinet and furniture styles used, various wood products and materials, and proper tool selection may also be covered. Students will be introduced to the different construction processes in the cabinetmaking, furniture making, and millwork industries. Students will learn about measurement, layout, shop drawings and cutting lists. They will gain a basic understanding of the various kinds of materials used in the industry. Students will learn to use selected woodworking tools and machinery. Correct and safe use of tools and equipment is emphasized. The construction of several projects will develop student’s woodworking skills.

WOODWORKING III

45411

CREDITS: 0.5  Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $40 per semester to cover the cost of consumable

materials, $6 goggle fee, Additional variable project fees may apply

PREREQUISITES: Successful Completion of Woodworking Tech B

Woodworking III provides continuing instruction in woodworking with a blend of historic and modern technology skills. This course includes in-depth instruction of hand tools, power tools, custom made tools, advanced woodworking techniques, drafting and wood science. Students will be required to design and build a complex piece of furniture. In addition, students will be introduced to 21st century technology options that are and will be available in real-world situations.

CTE INTRO TO WELDING  

79130101

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9 -12

FEES: $50 course fee per semester, $6 goggle fee, Additional variable project fees may apply.

PREREQUISITES: None

This introductory welding class teaches students the basics of GMAW (mig welding), SMAW (stick arc welding) and Plasma cutting. It also covers general and welding safety as well as general metal working procedures.

CTE WELDING TECH I

79130201

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $75 course fee per semester, $6 goggle fee, Additional variable project fees may apply

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Intro to Welding

Welding Technology provides the foundational understanding of welding and welding processes. In this course students will learn industry based safety standards and become familiar with the following welding processes; Oxyacetylene torch cutting, plasma cutting, and advanced positions for GMAW and SMAW welding. Students will become familiar with basic blueprint reading, welding procedure specifications, weld symbols, welding-related math, and measurement.

CTE WELDING TECH II

79130301

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $100 course fee per semester, $6 goggle fee, Additional variable project fees may apply

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Welding Tech I

Welding Technology II students will be exposed to more advanced welding process such as MIG/GMAW, as well as an introduction to TIG welding. In addition, they will have the opportunity to refine what they learned from Level I to a higher standard. Students will identify welding symbols on drawings, read detail drawings, identify physical characteristics and mechanical properties of metal, explain pre and post heating of metals, identify equipment and filler metals utilized in GMAW, as well as prepare welding test plates. Through the course of the year, students will have the opportunity to create more advanced welding projects for the community as well as private individuals.

CTE WELDING TECH III

79130401

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $100 course fee per semester, $6 goggle fee, Additional variable project fees may apply

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Welding Tech II

In this course the student will build upon their prior learning in Level II and can expect to engage in more advanced welding processes. These processes include advanced TIG welding including alloys such as aluminum and stainless steel, advanced blueprint reading, drawing and design, specifications, billing of materials, and Welding Procedure Specifications (WPS). Students will engage in advanced layout and fabrication processes to create projects for the community as well as private individuals.

CTE WELDING TECH IV

79130402

CREDITS: 0.5 Practical Arts credit

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $100 course fee per semester, $6 goggle fee, Additional variable project fees may apply

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Welding Tech II

Covers welding in all positions and on various joint configurations and may include multiple welding process. Student should be familiar with basic metallurgy pertaining to the weld ability of metals, structural joints, and safety in the welding industry. This course offers advanced welding students a chance to design and fabricate metal projects. Instructor approval is required before signing up for this course.

PHYSICAL & HEALTH EDUCATION (PHY) 

Introductory Level

Intermediate Level

Post Secondary  prep

Physical Education

Strength and Conditioning

Shape Up

Adventure Experience I

Athletic Training I

Healthy Decisions

Introduction to Mindfulness

Athletic Training II

Adventure Leadership II

Advanced Team Sports

Power Weights (male)

Sports Training (female)  

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND HEALTH REQUIREMENTS

Most Health and Recreation classes, by their nature, are classes that include a risk of injury to the participants, which may range in severity from minor to long-term catastrophic. Although serious injuries are not common in supervised classes, it is impossible to eliminate risk. Students must  obey all safety rules, report all physical problems to their teacher, follow prescribed proper programs and act responsibly while in the class area. Do NOT attempt any strenuous conditioning programs until you have consulted a physician. Students enrolling in Health and Physical Education classes are recommended to have a physical.

Course

#.

Course Name

Lect./

Discuss

Dress Out Req.

Reading/

Research

Daily Part.

Fitness Asses.

Make

Up

Req.

Test/ Quiz

Core Wt. Lift

Access

Daily HmWk

Group Work

Research Paper Project

75550

Physical Education

75477

Peer Coach/

Adapt PE

75350/51

Strength & Conditioning

75355/56

Strength & Cond. II

75322

Shape Up

75480

Advanced Team Sports

75575

Adventure Experience I

75585

Adventure Experience II

75330

Athletic Training I

75340

Athletic Training II

55300

Healthy Decisions

75770

Introduction to Mindfulness

These courses offered by the Physical Education Department are not yearlong courses. If you are planning to take one of these classes two semesters in a row, be sure to sign up for both semesters.


It is required by the Physical Education Department that students dress in the appropriate clothes for physical activity. Students will participate in class regardless if they dress out or not, unless deemed unsafe by instructor(s). Students must wear proper shoes, athletic shorts, t-shirts, sweat shirts, or clothing that meets the ThunderRidge High School dress code. Dressing out and participation is critical to the grades given in the following classes: Physical Education, Adaptive P.E., Strength and Conditioning, Shape Up, Strength and Conditioning II, Advanced Team Sports, and Adventure I and II.


ADVANCED TEAM SPORTS I

75480

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: None 

PREREQUISITES: Teacher signature and an “A” or “B” in Physical Education or Strength and Conditioning

This course is designed for higher competitive interactions in a variety of team and individual sport activities. Emphasis will be placed on improving student physical fitness, advanced skills, advanced team strategies and a higher level of competition. Physical assessments and written assessments will also be included. Passing this course will enable students to meet the required Physical Education graduation requirements or elective credit. This course may be taken more than once for credit. 

ADVENTURE EXPERIENCE I

75575

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $20 per semester

PREREQUISITES: None

Students will learn cooperative living skills, teamwork, problem solving and leadership skills through the use of individual and group challenges, games, and the use of the Low Elements of an indoor climbing wall. This course may be taken more than once for credit. Passing this course will enable students to meet the Physical Education graduation requirements or elective credit.

ADVENTURE Leadership II

75585

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $20 per semester 

PREREQUISITES:  Completion of Adventure Experience I course with a grade of “C” or higher

Students will learn cooperative living skills, teamwork, problem solving and leadership skills through the use of individual and group challenges, games, and the use of the High Elements of an indoor climbing wall. This course may be taken more than once for credit Passing this course will enable students to meet the Physical Education graduation requirements or elective credit.

ATHLETIC TRAINING I

75330

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $30 for supplies per semester

PREREQUISITES:  None

CPR and First Aid certificates through the American Red Cross (Optional)

This class will provide ThunderRidge students certification in community first aid and safety through the American Red Cross and will introduce anatomy and terminology as it relates to the Sports Medicine profession. This class will build a foundation of knowledge needed for those students who are wishing to take the Sports Medicine II class. Students wishing to take this class twice must obtain instructor approval. Passing this course will enable students to meet the Physical Education graduation requirements or elective credit.

ATHLETIC TRAINING II

75340

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $30 for supplies per semester. Class fee will cover the purchase of supplies used for lab activities, i.e. tape, pre-wrap, bandages, etc.

PREREQUISITES: Completion of Athletic Training I course with a grade of “B” or higher

Students who enroll in this class should have a strong interest in Sports Medicine or other related medical fields. This class will build upon the knowledge base established in Sports Medicine I. Students will learn in more detail the mechanism of injuries, anatomical structures damaged during an injury as well as prevention and treatment of athletic injuries. This class will combine both lecture and practical application of skills taught. A strong background and/or knowledge in anatomy and physiology are suggested. Passing this course will enable students to meet the Physical Education graduation requirements or elective credit.

HEALTHY DECISIONS

55300

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None 

PREREQUISITES:  None

Kick off your high school career by learning how to make good choices on those critical health issues that you will face in the next 4 years and in your future! Explore everyday living aspects of nutrition and fitness; substance use and abuse; sexuality; relationships; and personal safety through practicing effective decision making skills. Learn them with your peers in a fun, fact-filled course.Students who pass this course may have it apply to meet graduation requirements in any one of the following ways:.5 of their physical education requirement.5 of their practical arts requirement or.5 of their elective requirement.

INTRODUCTION TO MINDFULNESS

75770

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 9 -12

FEES: None 

PREREQUISITES:  None

This experiential, semester-long elective introduces mindfulness and the science surrounding it. In order to effectively understand the positive impact of mindfulness on our mental and physical health, students will explore the scientific research around mindfulness practices. Students will be given resources for stress resilience, and explore the Social Emotional Learning Competencies of improved self-awareness, self-management, social awareness, relationships and decision-making. Simultaneously, students will develop their own formal mindfulness practice both in and out of the classroom, and students will be able to apply mindfulness to daily living. This course may be taken only

one time for credit. Passing this course will enable students to meet the required Physical Education graduation requirements or elective credit.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

75550

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None 

PREREQUISITES:  None

This course is designed to improve student physical fitness through a variety of team and individual sport activities. Emphasis will be placed on improving student physical fitness levels, skill and strategy building. Physical assessments and written assessments will also be included.Passing this course will enable students to meet the required Physical Education graduation requirements or elective credit.  This course may be taken more than once for credit.

SHAPE UP

75322

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $20 per semester

PREREQUISITES:  None

This course is designed to improve student physical fitness. Students will learn to understand and apply basic fitness concepts.  Cardiovascular fitness, flexibility, circuit training and cross-training principals will be emphasized. Activities such as jogging, yoga, body weight strengthening  and Body Combat will be included. Physical assessments and written assessments will also be included.Passing this course will enable students to meet the required Physical Education graduation requirements or elective credit requirements. This course may be taken more than once for credit.

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONING I

STRENGTH AND CONDITIONINGxx

75350 - FALL SEMESTER

75351 -  SPRING SEMESTER

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: Course fee of $20 per semester

PREREQUISITES:  None

Strength and Conditioning I, is designed for those students who want to develop overall body strength and muscular endurance. The program is designed to strengthen the major muscles of the human body, through lifts such as; bench press, squats, incline bench, and hang cleans (and variations thereof). The students will also be involved in a variety of plyometrics, speed ladders, medicine ball training, and other activities to help increase speed and endurance. This program works well for any student who wants to build and maintain their strength. This is a class for first time lifters and those students involved in lower level athletics. *Physical assessments and written assessments will also be included. Passing this course will enable students to meet the required Physical Education Standards graduation requirements or elective credit requirements.  This course may be taken more than once for credit..

Power Weights (Fall Male Athlete)

 Power Weightsxx  (Spring Male Athlete)

75376  - FALL SEMESTER

75376xx  - SPRING SEMESTER

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $20.00 course fee per semester

PREREQUISITES:  Speak with head coach for details and approval

May require approval of Head coach at certain schools.This course is for students/athletes to prepare for athletic competition. It is Designed to help students/athletes in the in-season, and out of season conditioning with sport specific training.

Sports Training (Fall Female Athletes)

Sports TrainingXX (Spring Female Athletes)

75525  - FALL SEMESTER

75525xx  - SPRING SEMESTER

CREDITS: 0.5 PHY credit

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: $20.00 course fee per semester

PREREQUISITES:  Speak with head coach for details and approval

Sports Training is designed for varsity athletes of all sports teams. We will focus on the skills and strategies of playing and preparing for your varsity level sport.

WORLD LANGUAGE 

Foreign Language instruction provides a base upon which each succeeding year builds. The Foreign Language curriculum in Douglas County is a standards-based program. Students must pass minimum standards assessments in reading, writing, speaking, listening and culture at the end of each course to be able to proceed to the next level of instruction. The curriculum has been in place since 1990, ensuring that a student does not enter a class in which he/she is not prepared.

World Language courses level I & II earn elective credit. For World Language courses III and above, a student may select to have the course count as a practical arts, fine arts, or elective credit. Contact your counselor to discuss appropriate steps.

POST SECONDARY PATHWAY

Introductory

Intermediate

Advanced

AP & IB  

Post Secondary Prep  

American Sign Language I

Spanish I

French I

American Sign Language II

Spanish II

French II

American Sign Language III

Spanish III

French III

American Sign Language IV

See Pathways Below

See Pathways Below

Prerequisite

Level IV and IB

AP & IB

AP

IB

Spanish III

French III

Spanish IV

IB Spanish IV SL

 

French IV

IB French IV SL

AP Spanish Language/Culture

IB Spanish V SL

IB Spanish ab initio SL II (year two)

IB French V SL

Heritage

Spanish for Heritage Learners Year 1

Spanish for Heritage Learners Year 2

AP Spanish

IB Spanish HL

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE (ASL) I

95300 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None. It is recommended that students purchase the ASL workbook.

PREREQUISITE: None

Designed to introduce students to American Sign Language, American Sign Language I courses enable students to communicate with deaf persons through fingerspelling, signed words, and gestures. Course topics may include the culture of and issues facing deaf people. Students will also learn the basics of signing, including the alphabet, finger spelling, basic sign shapes, and basic vocabulary revolving around a variety of topics. Syntactic & morphological knowledge of American Sign Language (ASL), and basic conversational skills will be stressed. Vital aspects of deaf culture and community will be incorporated. Readiness activities will be conducted focusing on visual/receptive skills and basic communication. The direct experience method, using ASL, will be used to enhance the learning process. Students must successfully complete this course prior to continuing on to ASL level II.

Assessments for ASL I:

  • INTERPRETING: Students are able to interpret spoken English using ASL.
  • INTERPRETING: Students are able to interpret ASL presented into spoken (or written) English.
  • COMMUNICATION: The student is able to communicate using learned expressions on selected subjects. She/he is able to ask and answer simple questions in ASL on the topics that have been studied. Upon viewing a signed presentation or conversation, the student can answer questions regarding main ideas and supporting ideas.
  • CULTURE: Students will recognize selected cultural concepts as they relate to daily life in the deaf community as well as identify and discuss basic issues in the deaf community.

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE II

95302 S1/S2

CREDITS:  1.0 (one year)

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of ASL I

This year-long course will expose students to vital aspects of deaf culture and community. It further emphasizes development of receptive skills, expressive skills, application of syntactical and grammatical structures, and sign language colloquialisms used in conversational signing.

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE III

95303 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 (one year)

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of ASL II

American Sign Language III courses focus on having students express increasingly complex concepts while showing some spontaneity. Comprehension goals for students may include attaining more facility and faster understanding when viewing the language signed at normal rates and conversing easily within limited situations This course will reinforce the student’s exposure to vital aspects of deaf culture and community. It will extend proficiency of receptive skills, expressive skills, application of syntactical & grammatical structures and sign language colloquialisms used in conversational signing.

Further study of vocabulary, idioms, culture, ASL linguistics, word shapes, and topics will be essential for both left and right handed students. Students will study implementation of grammatical information through rule-governed movements of the face and head to find compelling meaning through a variety of facial behaviors. Use of space as related to the signer is also significant and will be discussed.  ASL poetry and its significance in ASL linguistic studies will be introduced. Deaf culture, norms, and behaviors will be studied.

AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE IV

95304 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (one year)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of ASL III

American Sign Language IV courses focus on advancing students’ skills and abilities to sign and understand the language so that they can maintain simple conversations with sufficient vocabulary and at an acceptable pace and have sufficient comprehension skills to understand the language when signed at a normal pace. The literacy centers will be used in this course. Further study of ASL and its grammar, syntax, and cultural features will be addressed. Students will write and sign stories of their bilingual/multicultural lives, as well as the bilingual, multicultural lives of other Deaf individuals as they acquire graphic design skills to illustrate various literary works. This course addresses the question “how does one read/interpret and ‘write’ visual art and literary texts?” through ASL literature. ASL poetry, that was learned in ASL III, will be reinforced through poetry analysis.The direct experience method will be used to enhance the learning process and help students develop competency and fluency in the language.

FRENCH I  

SPANISH I

95400 S1/S2

95600 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (one year)

GRADES:  9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: None

Level I World Language courses will prepare students to speak, read, write and listen in the target language (French or Spanish), and will focus on cultural information that will help them to get along if they are visiting foreign countries or are meeting foreign visitors. Students will study simple grammatical structures, which include present-tense and past-tense verb conjugations, gender of nouns, adjective use and sentence structure. Vocabulary study is an integral part of language learning and students are expected to continually practice their vocabulary words so that they will be able to communicate on a variety of topics. All skills will be practiced through speaking, writing, listening, and reading in the target language.

Assessments for World Language I:

  • SPEAKING: Students are able to speak using learned expressions or phrases on selected subjects. She/he is able to ask and answer simple questions on the topics that have been studied.
  • WRITING: Students are able to write paragraphs of 50 to 75 words on a variety of topics using memorized vocabulary and correct, basic sentence structure.
  • READING: Students are able to read simple narratives written on familiar topics with recognizable vocabulary and cognates. He/she can recognize familiar words in newspapers, advertisements, signs and maps.
  • LISTENING: Students are able to understand and respond appropriately to common memorized words and expressions when he/she hears the foreign language spoken.
  • CULTURE: Students will recognize selected cultural concepts as they relate to daily life in the countries studied, and be able to locate countries where the language is primarily spoken.

FRENCH II

SPANISH II

95410 S1/S2

95610 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of level I 

Some of the finer grammatical points are learned at this level, making language use a little more sophisticated. The students continue learning to express past events and begin learning more complicated grammatical constructions. Vocabulary learning continues to be an important component of language learning. Practice of all grammatical structures and vocabulary continues through speaking, writing, reading, and listening.

Assessments for World Language II:

  • SPEAKING: The student is able to express personal opinion and desires, and describe limited topics using learned grammatical structure and vocabulary. The student is able to ask and answer questions on a variety of topics.
  • WRITING: The student is able to write cogent 75-125 word compositions on selected topics using correct grammar and appropriate syntax and vocabulary.
  • READING: The student is able to identify main ideas and derive general meaning from a prepared text.
  • LISTENING: The student is able to understand and reply appropriately to phrases used in high frequency social situations which include personal interests and daily activities.
  • CULTURE: The student can demonstrate an understanding of one or more elements of a selected culture by comparing or contrasting it/them to the same element in his/her own culture. The student can identify some basic cultural information needed to function in a selected foreign country.

FRENCH III  

SPANISH III

95420 S1/S2

95620 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of level II

In Level III, students continue to learn vocabulary and increasingly more complicated grammar and syntactic structures. They begin fine tuning their language by learning expressions, constructions, and different verb tenses and moods that are more complicated and are more native-like in quality. The student and teacher's use of the target language in the classroom increases greatly at this level of language learning. WL levels III, IV, V should be set up as PRA or FNA, with the allowable option for students to also take that for ELE credit if desired.

Assessments for Level III World Language:

  • SPEAKING: Students demonstrate the ability to maintain brief face-to-face conversations on selected topics. The student is able to narrate stories, describe some situations and make his/her opinions known.
  • WRITING: Students are able to compose cogent 100-150 word compositions using different tenses and appropriate vocabulary and syntax.
  • READING: Students are able to read selected literary excerpts, articles and narratives identifying main ideas and supporting details.
  • LISTENING: Students are able to understand main ideas and supporting details when hearing the foreign language spoken on prepared video and audio tapes made by native speakers.
  • CULTURE: Students are able to demonstrate behavior which reflects cultural sensitivity in simulated social situations as well as demonstrate knowledge of a selected region where the foreign language is spoken.

FRENCH IV

SPANISH IV  

95435 S1/S2

95631 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (one year)

GRADES: 10-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of level III

Level IV classes are conducted entirely in the target language. The students work on improving their fluency in speaking, reading, writing and listening to the language they are learning. Vocabulary study continues as does practice and review of the grammatical structures already learned. Classroom discussions are conducted on topics of interest to the students. The reading is from works of native authors. WL levels III, IV, V should be set up as PRA or FNA, with the allowable option for students to also take that for ELE credit if desired.

Assessments for Level IV World Language:

  • SPEAKING: Students demonstrate the ability to describe, paraphrase, ask and answer questions, initiate and sustain conversations on diverse topics.
  • WRITING: Students demonstrate the ability to write cogent 150-200 word compositions on a variety of concrete topics using correct tenses, syntax, and vocabulary.
  • READING: Students are able to read and understand selected native literature and authentic text.
  • LISTENING: Students are able to understand main ideas and details when listening to native speakers at normal conversational rate.
  • CULTURE: Students are able to respond appropriately to selected cultural behaviors in social situations, and know significant historical and geographical information about the countries where the language is spoken.

SPANISH FOR HERITAGE LEARNERS

95615 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Placement test required.

This year-long course will expand the reading, writing, listening and speaking skills of the native speaker, who has mastered basic listening and basic conversational skills in Spanish prior to entering formal education.  These students possess skills that place them beyond the parameters of a 1st, 2nd, or 3rd year level Spanish class.  The course will expand the student's literary, historical and cultural knowledge.  Students will gain an appreciation of all literary forms and genres, including poetry, prose, novel, short story, essay, fable, and theater.  Students will be required to write narrative, expository, persuasive, and descriptive passages, as well as personal and business correspondence.Vocabulary will be an integral part of this course.  The course will address common pitfalls and errors in written language unique to the heritage speaker.

AP SPANISH LANGUAGE & CULTURE

95640 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 (one year)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: None

Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the National AP Exam in May ($98).

PREREQUISITE: Successful completion of Level IV

Level V classes offer the students a weighted credit. Students continue building their fluency in the language through oral, written, listening and reading practice. Classes are conducted entirely in the target language (Spanish or French) with both students and teachers communicating only in the target language. Students in Level V classes prepare to take the foreign language AP tests in May. Advanced Placement (AP) courses allow students to take the challenge of college-level courses while in the familiar surroundings of their high school. AP courses develop advanced reading, writing, and thinking skills that benefit students in their post-secondary pursuits. These courses require work outside the classroom, during Summer and breaks. Students should consider their academic, social, work, and extra-curricular activities before undertaking the commitment of an AP course. Students will not be allowed to drop an AP course after they have signed up and courses are scheduled.

Assessment at the end of Level V parallel to the AP test:

  • SPEAKING: Students demonstrate the ability to describe, paraphrase, express feelings and opinions, give information and ask and answer questions using diverse grammatical structures and vocabulary.
  • WRITING: Students compose compositions of 200-250 words on a variety of concrete and abstract topics using diverse vocabulary and correct syntax.
  • READING: Students relate and respond to the main idea and some supporting detail of selected works written by native authors for native readers.
  • LISTENING: Students demonstrate an understanding of native speakers from selected listening sources such as speakers, authentic videos, films, television, and recorded conversations by responding appropriately.
  • CULTURE: The student demonstrates cultural empathy through appropriate behavior. The student demonstrates knowledge of aspects of the civilization of the target language (French or Spanish) such as history, fine arts, music or geography.
  • Weighted AP courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB SPANISH AB INITIO SL II

95602 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May of senior year ($119).

PREREQUISITES:  Successful completion of  IB Spanish ab initio I

This is the second year of a two-year course sequence and is only available to full IBDP Seniors. The language ab initio course is a language acquisition course for students with little or no experience of the Spanish language. The course is organized into three themes: individual and society, leisure and work, and urban and rural environment. Each theme comprises a list of topics that provide students with opportunities to practice and explore the language and to develop intercultural understanding. Through the development of receptive, productive and interactive skills, students develop the ability to respond and interact appropriately in a defined range of everyday situations. This course fulfills the Group 2 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme. A two-year course sequence at the Standard Level only.

  • A world language course for students with little or no previous experience in the target language.
  • Provides an opportunity for students to further their linguistic skills by taking up a second foreign language, or for students to learn a foreign language for the first time.
  • Concentrates on the acquisition of language necessary for practical communication in a variety of everyday situations.
  • Develops the four primary skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing.
  • Enables students to acquire a basic awareness of the culture(s) related to the language through the study of a core-syllabus and a language-specific syllabus.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB SPANISH IV SL

95661 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 11

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May of senior year ($119).

PREREQUISITES:  Successful completion of Spanish IV or teacher recommendation

In this course will enable students to understand and use Spanish they have studied in a range of contexts and for a variety of purposes, encourage, through the study of texts and social interaction, an awareness and appreciation of the different perspectives of people from other cultures, develop students' awareness of the role of language in relation to other areas of knowledge, develop students' awareness of the relationship between the languages and cultures with which they are familiar, provide students with a basis for further study, work and leisure through the use of an additional language. IBO

IB SPANISH V SL 

95662 S1 AND 95662 S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 11 or 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of Spanish IV or teacher recommendation

IB Spanish Vi is conducted entirely in Spanish. Students will continue improving fluency through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students are expected to converse, discuss, and evaluate primary sources presented through all skill areas. Students will be provided opportunities to increase their levels of vocabulary and improve speaking skills. Students will follow the news of Spanish speaking countries making connections with the impact this has on their own lives as global citizens. Topics for the class include Spanish literature, science, environmental concerns, economics, history, art, music, philosophy, and ethics. This course fulfills the Group 2 requirements for IBDP.

Promotes an awareness, and sensitivity to the culture(s) related to the language studied.

  • Prepares students to use the language appropriately in a range of situations and contexts and for a variety of purposes.
  • Focuses on language acquisition and development in the four primary language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
  • Language skills are developed through the study and use of a range of written and spoken material, which extends from everyday oral exchanges to literary texts related to the culture(s) concerned.
  • Weighted IBcourses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB FRENCH IV SL

95433 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 11 or 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of French IV or teacher recommendation

This course will enable students to understand and use French they have studied in a range of contexts and for a variety of purposes, encourage, through the study of texts and social interaction, an awareness and appreciation of the different perspectives of people from other cultures, develop students’ awareness of the role of language in relation to other areas of knowledge, develop students’ awareness of the relationship between the languages and cultures with which they are familiar, provide students with a basis for further study, work and leisure through the use of an additional language.

IB FRENCH V SL

95441 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0

GRADES: 11 or 12

FEES: Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of French IV or teacher recommendation

IB French V is conducted entirely in French. Students will continue improving fluency through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students are expected to converse, discuss, and evaluate primary sources presented through all skill areas. Students will be provided opportunities to increase their levels of vocabulary and improve speaking skills. Students will follow the news of French speaking countries making connections with the impact this has on their own lives as global citizens. Topics for the class include French literature, science, environmental concerns, economics, history, art, music, philosophy, and ethics. This course fulfills the Group 2 requirements for the IB Diploma Programme and is open to IB Course students on an availability basis. 

The principal aim is to enable students to use French in a range of contexts.

  • Promotes an awareness, and sensitivity to the culture(s) related to the language studied.
  • Prepares students to use the language appropriately in a range of situations and contexts and for a variety of purposes.
  • Focuses on language acquisition and development in the four primary language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.
  • Language skills are developed through the study and use of a range of written and spoken material, which extends from everyday oral exchanges to literary texts related to the culture(s) concerned.
  • Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

ELECTIVES (ELE)

IB FILM SL

70749 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Elective credit (ELE)

GRADES: 11 or 12

FEES: $80 project fee per year to cover the cost of consumable materials/$40 per year semester.

Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITES: None

The Diploma Programme film course explores film history, theory and socio-economic background through the study and analysis of film texts and exercises in film-making. The course develops students’ critical abilities, enabling them to appreciate the multiplicity of cultural and historical perspectives in film. To achieve an international understanding within the world of film, students are taught to consider film texts, theories and ideas from the points of view of different individuals, nations and cultures. The Diploma Programme film course aims to develop students’ skills so that they become adept in both interpreting and making film texts. All IB Film assessments are project based.Grade Level 11-12.

GRADUATION COMPETENCY ELIGIBLE: A score of 4 or higher on the IB exam in this course will satisfy the graduation competency requirement for English. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

IB FILM HL

70750 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Elective credit (ELE)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: $80 project fee per year to cover the cost of consumable materials/$40 per year semester.

Students enrolled in the course are expected to take the IB Exam in May ($119).

PREREQUISITES: Successful completion of IB Film SL and teacher recommendation

This is the second year in a two-year sequence, following IB Film SL. The Diploma Programme film course explores film history, theory and socio-economic background through the study and analysis of film texts and exercises in film-making. The course develops students’ critical abilities, enabling them to appreciate the multiplicity of cultural and historical perspectives in film. To achieve an international understanding within the world of film, students are taught to consider film texts, theories and ideas from the points of view of different individuals, nations and cultures.The Diploma Programme film course aims to develop students’ skills so that they become adept in both interpreting and making film texts. All IB Film assessments are project based. Grade Level 11-12.

GRADUATION COMPETENCY ELIGIBLE: A score of 4 or higher on the IB exam in this course will satisfy the graduation competency requirement for English.

  • The Diploma Programme film course explores film history, theory and socio-culture background through the study and analysis of film texts and exercises in film-making.
  • The course develops students’ critical abilities, enabling them to appreciate the multiplicity of cultural and historical perspectives in film.
  • To achieve an international understanding within the world of film, students are taught to consider film texts, theories and ideas from the points of view of different individuals, nations and cultures.
  • The Diploma Programme film course aims to develop students’ skills so that they become adept in both interpreting and making film texts. All IB Film assessments are project based.
  • Students in HL are expected to complete extensions of the core units adding depth and breadth in the second year of study.

GRADUATION COMPETENCY ELIGIBLE: A score of 4 or higher on the IB exam in this course will satisfy the graduation competency requirement for English. Weighted IB courses award the student five points for an A, four points for a B, three points for a C, one point for a D and zero points for an F.

INTRO TO POSITIVE PSYCHOLOGY

85757

CREDIT: 0.5 Elective Credit (ELE)

GRADE: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: One semester of Psychology or AP Psychology

Introduction to Positive Psychology is a semester course for juniors and seniors. Introductory Psychology or a semester of AP Psychology will be a prerequisite. The class will tackle content with psychological research-based facts, studies, and exercises that deal with what it takes to gain positive well-being in the short-term and long-term. Topics will include, but are not limited to: identifying one’s character strengths, identifying one’s personality traits, optimism, gratitude, how to experience positive emotions, how to have positive relationships, how to be engaged, and answering the call of your “dark side.”

 

JOURNALISM  

50406

CREDITS: 0.5  Elective credit  (ELE)

GRADES:  9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: None

This course addresses the history, purpose, legal and ethical concerns, style, and content of print journalism. Students study professional models and will practice producing news stories, features, editorials and columns, and sports and entertainment writing suitable for high school publications. Photojournalism and ethics are also covered. Participants learn the fundamentals of layout and design and create a mock newspaper. Although this course is suitable for anyone interested in journalism, it is geared towards those who wish to be well prepared for assuming roles on newspaper and yearbook staffs. As with all Language Arts courses, reading and writing standards will be reinforced.

NEWSPAPER  

S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Elective credit  (ELE)

GRADES:  9-12

FEES: $30 to cover the cost of consumables.

PREREQUISITES: Application and teacher approval

During this year-long course, students will plan, write, design and produce the high school newspaper. Students will write for each issue while also developing and printing photographs, selling and designing advertising, creating headlines, preparing billing, and maintaining a simple bookkeeping system. This course can count as PRA or FNA credit.

   

PEER COUNSELING I

35400

CREDIT: 0.5 Elective credit    (ELE)

GRADES: 11

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Course requires an application and/or teacher recommendation or approval.

This course provides students the opportunity to serve as a Peer Counselor, promoting a positive school climate, one student at a time.  Research shows that peers, when properly trained, are able to support students in incredibly positive ways.  Students will learn active listening, facilitative responding, healthy habits and mindfulness, along with other components of a dynamic peer leader program. Students will also engage in activities designed to enhance self awareness, social awareness and empathy.  Confidentiality and legal/ethical issues are also explored.  This class prepares students to work with other students on both academic and social/emotional issues.  Students must earn a B in Peer Counseling I in order to serve as a Peer Counselor the following semester.

PEER COUNSELING INTERN

55750

CREDIT: 0.5 Elective credit  (ELE)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Course requires an application and/or teacher recommendation or approval.

Peer Counselors serve as student mentors and supporters in the counseling office after completing Peer Counseling I.  Peer Counselors help support students with both academics and social emotional issues.  

PEER INTERN

40420

CREDIT: 0.5 Elective credit (ELE)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Course requires an application and/or teacher recommendation or approval.

This course provides students the opportunity to interact with students who have varying levels of disabilities. Students are trained in philosophy to ensure that all students are included in regular education classroom activities as well as to serve when needed in a tutorial role.  Appropriate for anyone wishing to make a difference in another student's life.

Public Speaking    

50700

CREDITS: 0.5  Elective credit  (ELE)

GRADES:  9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: None

This course is to prepare students for the variety of speaking situations they will inevitably encounter in their academic and professional careers. Emphasis is placed on improving confidence and self-esteem while developing and practicing communication skills. By giving presentations to the class, students will learn presentation techniques, organizational patterns, use of evidence and research, and listening skills.

STUDENT GOVERNMENT

35450 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Elective credit (ELE)

GRADES:  9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: Students have to be selected to enroll in this course.Course requires an application and/or teacher recommendation or approval.

Students will explore concepts of leadership and develop leadership techniques through school activities which promote school spirit and community service. Homecoming, dances, pep rallies and charity events comprise the bulk of the projects during the year. Teamwork is an integral part of the class. All Student Government officers and representatives are required to take this class.

YEARBOOK  

50420 S1/S2

CREDITS: 1.0 Elective credit (ELE)

GRADES:  9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITES: Application and teacher approval

First Time Yearbook Application

Returning Yearbook Application

During this year-long course, students will plan, write, and produce the school yearbook. Students will practice and learn journalism skills such as interviewing, writing, revising, editing, layout design, and photography. Students will be expected to sell and design advertising, as well as compose captions, headlines, and stories. This course requires students to be available after school. Credit types: FNA, PRA, ELE.

SPECIAL EDUCATION &

ENGLISH AS A SECOND LANGUAGE (ESL)

Special education students and English Language Learners will be assisted with registration by their case manager during school hours. Signature from a Special Education teacher is required for all course offerings.

PRE-ALGEBRA STRATEGIES

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is designed for students with an IEP to prepare them for Algebra in the general curriculum. Students will review fractions, decimals, integers, order of operations, percentages, exponents, rations and proportions, geometry and graphing in the coordinate plane. Students will begin working with variables to simplify algebraic expressions, inequalities/equalities and solve equations. Math standards have been modified and students will be evaluated by IEP goals and objectives.

ESSENTIAL LEARNING STRATEGIES

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 elective credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-10

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is for students with an Individualized Education Plan who require extra assistance in improving academic performance, decision making, problem solving, communication and organization. Topics of instruction may include note taking, organization tools, time management, test taking strategies, self-advocacy and understanding of IEP, as well as reading, writing and communication strategies. This course can be repeated for credit.

ENGLISH STRATEGIES

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 English credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-10

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is for students with an Individualized Education Plan who require extra specialized intervention in improving literacy skills. Topics of instruction include vocabulary development, literature, and written expression.  Skill areas of focus reading comprehension, as well as written content, organization, and mechanics. This course can be repeated for credit.

SCIENCE STRATEGIES (Dependent on Enrollment)

 S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 science credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-10

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is for students with an Individualized Education Plan who require extra specialized intervention in improving science skills. This course is taught in a 2 year cycle. Topics of instruction include cells, characteristics of life, genetics, cell division, biodiversity, and ecology (Cycle 1); and tectonic plates, volcanos, map skills, global climate change, and forms of energy (Cycle 2). Skill areas of focus reading comprehension, as well as written content, lab skills, and scientific inquiry. This course can be repeated for credit.

CAREER STRATEGIES

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 elective credit (one year)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is for students with an Individualized Education Plan requiring assistance in post-secondary planning. Topics of study will include, but are not limited to, exploring career/vocational opportunities, complete career interest inventories/surveys/profiles, use of Naviance for post-secondary planning, complete transition portfolios, create resumes, develop interview skills, and develop an understanding of job retention skills needed for employment. Students will have the opportunity to participate in field trips to vocational schools and job sites to expose them to viable career paths. Guest speakers representing various careers/occupations will present information to students. This course can be repeated for credit.

INTERNSHIP STRATEGIES

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 elective credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is specifically designed for students with an Individualized Education Plan (IEP) who are interested in obtaining unpaid work experience in various career areas. Students will work on or off campus at a job site learning vocational/career skills and on-the-job social skills. This is an elective class and may be taken more than once for credit.

LIFE SKILLS MATH

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 math credit (one year)

GRADES: 11-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is designed for juniors and seniors with an Individualized Education Plan. Emphasis is placed on practical, consumer-oriented math skills in order to prepare students with the independent living skills necessary such as personal finance, housing, transportation cost, and monthly budgeting.

LIFE SKILLS SCIENCE

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 science credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is for students with Significant Needs with an Individualized Education Plan. Emphasis will be based on the student's individual needs, vocational skills, hygiene, nutrition and health.

ENGLISH LIFE SKILLS

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 English credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is for students with Significant Needs on an Individualized Education Plan. Based upon the student's individual needs, an emphasis will be placed on functional reading and writing skills. English standards have been modified and will be evaluated by IEP goals and objectives.

SOCIAL STUDIES LIFE SKILLS

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 social studies credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: IEP Team is required

This course is for students with Significant Needs on an Individualized Education Plan. Emphasis will be based on the student's individual needs, current events and life in the community.

ESL/ENGLISH

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 English credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Teacher approval is required

ESL English for English Credit focuses on enhancing content and language to support students in developing their proficiency in English.

ESL/ELECTIVE

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0 elective credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Teacher approval is required

This course offers extended opportunities for all English learners to practice literacy skills - listening, speaking, reading, and writing. In addition to developing literacy skills, students will have resource time to get additional support from teachers in their content classes and the ESL teacher.

INTERVENTION COURSES

A teacher recommendation is required for intervention courses and are not selected by students during the registration process. Students will be enrolled in the courses listed below at the beginning of the semester.

SCHOOL SUCCESS

40501

CREDIT: 0.5 elective credit

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: None

PREREQUISITE: Teacher recommendation

This course is not selected during the registration process, a teacher/counselor recommendation is required.

School Success is an elective course for students in grades 9-12. Students focus on goal setting, problem-solving, self-advocating, and self progress monitoring. Through the course, students will learn skills necessary to be successful in school and life. Students will engage in direct instruction of executive functioning and social emotional skills with applicable projects to further enhance their understanding and promote generalization of these skills into their daily lives. Each student will use collaboration and communication techniques during team building exercises to further develop a positive learning community and culture. This is a co-taught course that allows for individualized attention and frequent conferencing/feedback.

READ/WRITE STRATEGIES

S1/S2

CREDIT: 1.0  elective credit (one year)

GRADES: 9-12

FEES: $35 (cost of the consumable workbook)

PREREQUISITE: Non-proficiency in standards and/or low reading/writing skills; teacher recommendation

This two-semester course is required for students who have not shown reading proficiency through the state testing or other measures. It is designed to increase students' abilities to read and comprehend increasingly difficult material, understand and utilize vocabulary, and increase writing skills to communicate a variety of purposes. This class uses the Read180 curriculum in which students will participate in whole & small group instruction, independent literacy skills, and independent reading time in a rotation style setting on block days. During shortened class days, students will bring in their own materials for support and guidance in relationship to literacy development. Students that meet growth expectations will be exited from class but might still find literacy support through the MTSS (multi-tiered system of support)program at TRHS

Nondiscrimination Assurance

To attest to its determination to be in compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 and with Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, Section 502 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and the implementing guidelines adopted by the U.S. Department of Health Education and Welfare, the Douglas County School District has adopted a policy prohibiting discrimination on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex and/or handicap in any educational activity, program or event for which it is responsible by law. As provided by Title IX, and by Section 504, the school district has designated compliance officers to implement these statutes and to handle   all related complaints. All inquiries concerning the school district’s implementation of Title IX, Section 504 and the implementing guidelines may be referred to the appropriate compliance officer as listed below. TITLE IX - Director of Personnel Relations Section 504 - Director of Personnel Relations @ Douglas County School District, 620 Wilcox Street, Castle Rock, CO   80104.

Civil Rights Statement

Douglas County School District is an equal opportunity education institution and does not unlawfully discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, or disability in admission or access to, or treatment or employment in, its educational programs or activities. Inquiries concerning Title VI, Title IX, Section 504 and ADA may be referred to Learning Services(303-387-0100) or to the Office for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Region VII, Federal Office Building, 1244 North Speer Blvd., Suite 310, Denver, Colorado 80204, (303) 844-2991.

Always a Grizzly!