High School Courses

In this AP course, students establish the fundamentals of economics, with a survey of scarcity, opportunity cost, supply, demand, and market equilibrium. They then zoom out to the largest scale of economic analysis, learning the indicators of whole countries’ economic health, specifically gross domestic product, unemployment, and price level. With that foundation, the rest of the course looks at fiscal and monetary policies, their consequences, and the basics of international trade and the foreign exchange market. Students will gain a much deeper understanding of the world around them, the roles that government and banks play in an economy, and the economic outcomes generated by their policy decisions.

In this course, students explore the power of marginal thinking and apply it to common decisions that individuals and business firms encounter each day. Students examine, interpret, analyze, and model key microeconomics concepts and processes, from the shifting supply and demand for familiar products to the model of the labor market and how wages are determined.

In this AP course, students immerse themselves in the scientific study of human behavior and cognition. Learn about notable figures and psychological studies. Investigate scientific methods and ethical considerations related to human and animal research. In this college-level course, you will learn about and apply important terms, concepts, and phenomena associated with each major area of psychology and enhance your critical thinking skills. Topics include the biological bases of psychology, sensation and perception, learning, cognition, development, motivation, emotion, personality, psychological disorders, and social psychology.

AP Statistics is an introductory college-level statistics course that introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students cultivate their understanding of statistics using technology, investigations, problem-solving, and writing as they explore concepts like variation and distribution; patterns and uncertainty; and data-based predictions, decisions, and conclusions.

In this AP course, students investigate key political concepts, ideas, institutions, policies, interactions, roles, and behaviors that characterize the constitutional system and political culture of the United States. Students will study the structure of the Constitution throughout the course, as well as its implications for the functioning of government today. Other foundational documents, landmark Supreme Court cases and opportunities for research and civic action are key elements in this rich course that prepares.

In this AP course, students will develop and use historical thinking skills (chronological reasoning, comparison and contextualization, crafting historical arguments from historical evidence, and historical interpretation and synthesis) to examine the history of the United States from 1491 to the present. Students will learn through active participation as they analyze sources and collaborate to gain a conceptual understanding of U.S. history. The course is structured around nine time periods outlined within the College Board Advanced Placement United States History Framework. Each time period is divided into key concepts meant to contextualize history and show continuity and well as change over time. The intention is for students to explore history, establishing economic, political, and social patterns.

This course provides a basic introduction to the elements of acting, including physical, vocal, spatial, textual analysis, and production foundations. It addresses some of the cross-cultural aspects of the art of acting, explores prominent theories of acting technique, and emphasizes solo works, both original and scripted. Improvisation is taught as both an end in itself and a tool for deepening the scripted acting experience.

Great marketing strategies can be powerful. Every year companies spend approximately $200 billion promoting their products and services – and that’s just in the United States alone! Explore how marketing campaigns, ads, and commercials are brought to life and meet some of the creative folks who produce them. Learn about different marketing career opportunities and discover ways to be part of this exciting, fast-paced industry.

Throughout U.S. history, how have African Americans helped shaped American culture? This course answers that question by tracing African Americans’ accomplishments and obstacles, beginning with the slave trade on up to the modern Civil Rights movement. Learn about the political, economic, social, religious, and cultural factors that have influenced African American life, meet individuals who changed the course of history, and explore how the African American story still influences current events.

The word “agriculture” often evokes images of farms, fields, and livestock, and while all of these representations are correct and essential, the field of Agriculture is so much more! In Agriscience I: Introduction, you’ll explore how agriscientists play key roles in improving agriculture, food production, and the conservation of natural resources along with the technologies used to keep the field thriving. Are you ready to explore the diverse careers in agriscience and how you can prepare to positively impact the planet? Let’s get growing! B: Science and technology are revolutionizing many areas of our lives – and agriculture is no exception! From aquaculture to genetic engineering, agriscience is finding new ways to better produce and manage plants, animals, and other natural resources. Let’s delve deeper into important agri-areas such as soil science and weed management. And explore research on plant and animal diseases as well as the insects and other pests that can impact agricultural enterprises and natural resources.

Algebra 1 is a foundational math course that focuses both on computational competency and conceptual understanding with application. Topics include solving, graphing, and describing diverse equations, linear equations and inequalities, systems of equations, exponents and exponential functions, quadratic and polynomial functions, and data analysis.

This course covers all Algebra 1 content over 2 years, providing the time and space for reinforcement without the pressure of completing the content in one year. The foundation of math, this course focuses both on computational competency and conceptual understanding with application. Topics include solving, graphing, and describing diverse equations, linear equations and inequalities, systems of equations, and exponents and exponential functions.

This course covers all Algebra 1 content over 2 years, providing the time and space for reinforcement without the pressure of completing the content in one year. The foundation of math, this course focuses both on computational competency and conceptual understanding with application. Topics include solving, graphing, and describing diverse equations, systems of equations, quadratic and polynomial functions, and data analysis.

Students build on their foundation, comparing commonalities among families of functions including linear, quadratic, polynomial, radical, exponential, logarithmic, rational, and trigonometric functions. Students are introduced to operations with complex numbers, trigonometric identities, and further statistical studies.

A: Learn introductory vocabulary and simple sentences so that you can start communicating right away. Importantly, explore Deaf culture – social beliefs, traditions, history, values, and communities influenced by deafness. B: Discover more of this language and its grammatical structures through expanding your vocabulary with acquiring hundreds of new signs. Additionally, explore interesting topics like Deaf education and Deaf arts and culture, and learn about careers where you can use your ASL skills.

A: It’s time to move beyond introductory ASL signs and start forming more compelling signs for communication. Explore how expressions can enhance signs and lend dimension to conversations, while learning vocabulary for descriptions, directions, shopping, making purchases, and dealing with emergencies. B: Ready to dive deeper into learning about the Deaf community, culture, and language? Learn about sequencing, transitions, role-shifts, and future tenses. Discover how to tell a story and ask questions, benefiting with greater exposure to deaf culture. Speed, conversations, signing skills, and cultural awareness are characteristics of this course.

A: As you dive into more advanced ASL signing, including unique grammar features and advanced classifiers and locatives, you’ll learn, compose, and present your new-found vocabulary and narratives by immersing yourself in Deaf culture and community. From opinions, slang, and idioms, to using technology and media that offers authentic Deaf perspectives. Explore how travel, cultural differences, and geography affect sign language. And gain a better understanding of Deaf culture by learning important events and examining topics such as education, science, and literature. B: Are you ready to discover ways in which Deaf culture influences the world in general? After all, the concept of culture goes far beyond an understanding of Deaf history. Through discussing Deaf culture and experiences, you’ll advance your signing skills by developing verb tenses, grammar, and syntax. Apply your language skills in real conversation activities and through opportunities to debate real issues. It’s also time to explore the next steps in education and career opportunities for your new intermediate ASL skills.

Students continue to learn more advanced vocabulary and structure, and will be quite fluent in communication and presentation by the end of this course. Additionally, students immerse themselves in the local Deaf community.

ASL 5 is an advanced course where students will continue to develop conversational skills, but more emphasis is placed on artistic expression, literature, and poetry using ASL. This course is taught completely using ASL. Students conduct research and develop personal pieces of ASL literature.

Human Anatomy and Physiology explores the inner workings of the human body and focuses on anatomical and medical terminology. The course is the perfect foundation for students wanting to expand their vocabularies and learn about the body and its levels of organization, as well as the cooperation required between those levels to maintain homeostasis. Topics include cardiovascular, endocrine, nervous, integumentary, muscular, and skeletal systems.

Students in this course study the major events, concepts, themes, and connections between various regions and civilizations from the earliest humans through the European Renaissance. Throughout the course, students focus on several major historical themes, including historical points of reference, geography, economics, government, citizenship, culture, science/technology, and society.

A: Have you ever watched a cartoon or played a video game where the animation of characters captivated you so much you wanted to create your own? If so, it’s time to immerse yourself in the world of animation. Meet the industry players such as directors, animators, and 3D modelers. Develop your story by exploring design, the 12 principles of animation, creating a storyboard, and leveraging the tools of the trade. Let’s bring your story to life with animation! B: It’s time to start animating like the pros! In this hands-on course, you’ll immediately start exploring the software Blender, your gateway to 3D modeling, computer animation, and post-production procedures used in the film industry. Discover 3D modeling and animation of characters. Explore the basics of human anatomy and form to apply rigging, joints, and texture. Examine rendering and lighting effects and how to apply sound. And discover careers so you can start using your new skills right away.

Students will explore the study of humans, their history, their environment, their culture and societal interactions, but also to build bridges across nations, comparing, contrasting, and exploring similarities and differences among them.

Imagine what it must feel like to uncover an artifact from the past! Archaeology helps us to better understand, through discovery and analysis, how ancient civilizations have shaped the modern world. Explore the techniques, methods, and theories Archaeologists use to conduct their studies to locate and unlock the secrets of a long and colorful past. Let’s get exploring!

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Talk to your DSD and art teacher to see what creative solutions your campus may offer. Credits earned from this elective are applied to the minimum required elective credit for graduation and do not satisfy any subject-specific graduation requirements.

Art tells a story. Go on a journey of when humans began creating art in prehistoric times to ancient Roman, early Christian, and Medieval periods. Explore the artistic characteristics of the Renaissance, Americas, Baroque, Romantic, and more. Learn the elements and design principles of art, and about some of the greatest artists in the world, while creating your own art, both on paper and digitally. It’s time to tell your story through art.

Astronomy is the scientific study of the Universe and introduces the composition and structure of the Universe. This course provides the student with a study of the universe and the conditions, properties, and motions of bodies in space. Topics include astronomical instruments, the celestial sphere, the solar system, and the Earth/moon system.

This course is designed for advanced students eager to practice and formalize their research techniques. Appropriate for any topic, from humanities to STEM, the course is customizable to allow students to use industry-standard research techniques for nearly any field.

Students will explore the history of the world through weaving evidence and insights about the Universe and our place in it from many scientific and historical disciplines into a single, cohesive, science-based origin story.

Biology introduces students to the study of life on our planet. Students will learn about various levels of life, from a single cell, to complex interactions between organisms. Topics include Cells, Ecology, Heredity, Natural Selection and Diversity of Life.

Biotechnology is a cutting-edge, high-demand field that encompasses everything from plant and animal breeding to genetics. Discover how biotechnology has changed the world around us, from food to genetics. Explore historical applications with modern discoveries. Understand how regulations and ethics govern the course of biotechnology and learn of its importance to the field of medicine. B: Dig deeper into the world of biotechnology! Learn how and why biotechnology is so important to the agricultural, pharmaceutical, and genetic fields of study. You’ll learn about mapping the human genome, the role of antibiotics, how medicine is created to combat diseases, and the future of the biotechnology field. It’s time to explore the depth and breadth of this fascinating field!

What does it really take to own your own business? Does the sound of being your own boss make you feel excited? Discover what is needed to operate a personal business from creating a plan, generating financing, and pricing products to marketing services and managing employees. If you’ve ever dreamed of being a true entrepreneur but feel daunted by the prospect, this is your chance to learn all you need to know.

Do you dream of a future where you can have creative freedom, working in an industry you love, where you can get up every morning excited about the day will bring? In this course, you’ll learn the skills you’ll need in order to take your dream and transform it into a successful business. You’ll explore foundations like generating ideas to qualifying opportunities, analyzing the market, and identifying skills for successful deployment. You’ll learn to keep your business rolling and growing through effective workplace leadership and training while incorporating technological innovations to keep your business competitive. Are you ready to turn your dreams into reality? Let’s get goaling!

Limits, derivatives, integrals, the meaning of the universe; the applications of calculus are far reaching in fields such as engineering and the sciences. College prep and honors start at the same place (limits and continuity), honors goes deeper and covers more content. A strong background in Pre-Calculus topics is required.

A: Have you ever wondered what steps take place as people as they move through the court system? The criminal justice system is a very complex field that requires dedicated people willing to pursue equal justice for all. Explore different career choices and how the juvenile justice system, the correctional system, and the trial process all work together to maintain social order. B: Have you ever thought about a career as a police officer, an FBI or DEA agent, or any occupation that seeks to pursue justice for all? Careers in criminal justice can be found at local, county, state, and federal levels, and even in the private sector. Explore some of the various occupations in this field, while simultaneously learning how they interact with each other and other first responders. Discover various interviewing techniques to uncover the truth. Understand the importance of making ethical decisions, and how you need to keep your sense of right and wrong in check to be successful in this field.

Chemistry introduces students to the study of the structure and composition of matter that makes up living things and their environment. Topics include matter, chemical reactions, solutions, and nuclear chemistry.

Have you ever wanted to create your own web page or wondered how your favorite websites were built? Explore the role technology plays in our lives as well as study the fundamentals of computer science, review hardware and software, and learn how the internet functions. Discover how to create and build your own website using HTML and CSS, and learn the basics of JavaScript and Python Programming. This course also covers data collection methods, access rights, protocols, and security. B: Let’s continue to cultivate an understanding of programming languages and expand on website development. You will learn the difference between web development and web application development as well as further explore Advanced Python, HTML, and JavaScript. You will also examine software engineering concepts, learn more about security, privacy, and ethics in technology, and explore the wide variety of careers in computing.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Talk to your DSD and computer teacher to see what creative solutions your campus may offer. Credits earned from this elective are applied to the minimum required elective credit for graduation and do not satisfy any subject-specific graduation requirements.

A: Have you ever wondered how your favorite software is created? Explore the software development life cycle from start to finish while developing your own programming skills with Python. Explore the power of data and algorithms along with their influence on the world. Launch yourself into the endless possibilities a career as a programmer can bring you B: Dig deeper and expand your knowledge as you discover how programming can solve a vast array of problems. Plan and develop a problem-solving program while performing testing, debugging, and quality assurance procedures. Design and plan your own app as part of your capstone project to give you a thorough introduction to the world of programming.

A: Congratulations; you’re speaking a different language! A programming language that is. But do you want to learn more? Discover the most popular programming languages and what they have to offer the software world. Explore data, algorithms, and objectives and how they are essential to language ‘speak’. Learn the software development life cycle and how it can be implemented so you can create projects, such as a prototype for an app you’ll code and a working to-do list website. B: Get ready to take your programming abilities to the next level! You’ll start by developing a simple web page using HTML, CSS, and JavaScript and then you’ll practice your Python skills, making your own photo editor and sound player! Using API, you’ll practice adding a weather widget to a website and you’ll ensure page safety using encryption techniques through Python. You’ll test, you’ll inspect, you’ll collaborate, and for your finale, you’ll craft a graphical user interface for an app using Python’s Tkinter! Let’s get ready to program!

Learn how the momentum of science is continually propelling engineers in new directions towards a future full of insight and opportunity. Explore the different branches of engineering and how problem-solving, sketching, collaboration, and experimentation can change the very fiber of our human lives. By examining astounding engineering feats and complex ongoing issues, you’ll begin to question whether the word impossible really exists.

This course covers all of the same concepts as Chemistry, including measurement, lab technique, atomic theory, kinetics, forces and reactions, and nuclear chemistry; it simplifies the more challenging mathematics. Students investigate the same topics and complete identical or comparable labs to meet the same learning outcomes through a more hands-on and accessible learning experience. This course emphasizes chemistry applications such as food science, health, and medicine.

This course covers all of the same concepts as Physics, including motion, energy, forces, thermodynamics, electricity, and quantum physics; it simplifies the more challenging mathematics. Students investigate the same topics and complete identical or comparable labs to meet the same learning outcomes through a more hands-on and accessible learning experience.

Students continue to develop basic math skills and explore how mathematics is used in their daily lives. Themes of the course include health and nutrition, shopping, wages and earning money, careers, taxes, buying a home and car, budget, banking, and travel. Assessments primarily consist of simulations of “real world” tasks, such as filling out tax forms, creating budgets, creating spreadsheets, and verbalizing connections made in mathematics.

Students will examine an overview of historical and contemporary political, social, and economic issues within the United States. Students learn the background of the issue, as well as multiple perspectives to formulate their own opinions. Students are expected to write extensively using primary and secondary sources in independently-guided research.

Literature is an important form of art that allows us to give voice to our emotions, create imaginary worlds, express ideas, and escape the confines of reality. Explore the writing process and find inspiration to build a story of your own, and learn literary techniques to create hybrid forms of poetry and prose. Let’s turn your creative thoughts and ideas into pieces of creative writing.

Why do certain people commit horrible acts? Can we ever begin to understand their reasoning and motivation? Perhaps. The mental state of a criminal can be affected by many different aspects of life: psychological, biological, sociological, all of which have different perspectives and influences. Investigate not only how these variables affect the criminal mind but also how crimes are investigated and handled in the criminal justice system.

A: Thinking of a career in the food-service industry or looking to develop your culinary skills? Explore basic cooking and knife skills while preparing you for entry into the culinary world. Discover the history of food culture, food service, and global cuisines while learning about food science principles and preservation. Prepare for your future by building the professional, communication, leadership, and teamwork skills that are crucial to a career in the culinary arts. B: Did you know that baking is considered a science? Discover how to elevate your culinary skills through the creation of stocks, soups, sauces, and learn baking techniques. Examine sustainable food practices and the benefits of nutrition while maintaining taste, plating, and presentation to truly wow your guests. Explore careers in the culinary arts for ways to channel your newfound passion! Students will need to provide their own materials for cooking activities.

Students will explore various regions around the world to gain a deeper understanding of the culture, geography, and the impact of the environments on the people who inhabit those regions.

We depend more on the technologies we interact with every day; and we put more and more of our personal data out there online. Can all of that data really be kept “secret”? Learn about the various parts of your computer, how they work together, and how you can manipulate them to keep your data safe. Dive into the tools, technologies, and methods that will help protect you from an attack and discover the many opportunities in the rapidly growing field of cybersecurity. B: Unmask the cybersecurity threats around you by understanding hackers and identifying weaknesses in your online behavior. Learn to avoid the various types of cyberattacks, including those to your social media accounts, and to predict the potential legal consequences of sharing or accessing information that you do not have rights to. Dig into these crimes in depth by taking a look at cyber forensics and other cybersecurity careers. Cybersecurity will play an increasingly larger role in our personal and professional lives in the years to come.

Students enrolled in Deaf Studies explore the history of deaf culture in the United States. By the conclusion of this course, students have developed an understanding of Deaf history and culture and are ready to be advocates for the Deaf community.

We use technology to communicate with friends and family, find never-ending entertainment options and do our schoolwork. Discover what it means to be a responsible digital citizen, expand your digital literacy, and become a successful online student. Consider the best ways to find, create, and share information, learn to maximize information and communication technologies, and explore digital content creation, from emails and blogs to social media, videos, and podcasts.

A: Discover your talent for building digital media applications using text, graphics, animations, sounds, videos, and more! Learn about the elements that make impressive media, such as typography, color theory, design, and manipulation. Explore careers to apply your digital media skills and find your place in this fast-paced and exciting field! B: Let’s polish your digital media skills and help you learn all about web design. Incorporate your creative ideas into websites and discover the basics of marketing to understand how your work can be used effectively. You’ll also explore the world of podcasts and audio editing to construct a solid foundation from which you can pursue a career in this exciting field.

A: Did you know that you are consuming digital media every time you open an app or use your computer or tablet? Digital media may be a webpage, video, image, podcast, form, or more. Explore how you can develop webpages that embed different media and interactivity for excellent user experience through programming languages such as HTML and CSS. Examine trends and opportunities, education requirements, student organizations, and industry certification options. It’s your turn to start designing websites and experiences for digital media consumers. B: Think of the best online stores you’ve visited. What do you think makes them unique? How do they keep buyers engaged and purchasing? Before you can design a great eCommerce store, it’s essential to understand how one works. Learn the trends, design principles, and security strategies. Explore what it means to adhere to ethical and legal requirements and complying with industry standards and accessibility. It’s time to start designing the next best eCommerce site!

Have you wondered how professional photographers manage to capture that perfect image? Gain a better understanding of photography by exploring camera functions and the elements of composition while putting theory into practice by taking your own spectacular shots! Learn how to display your work for exhibitions and develop skills important for a career as a photographer. B: Let’s further develop your photography skills by learning more professional tips, tricks, and techniques to elevate your images. Explore various photographic styles, themes, genres, and artistic approaches. Learn more about photojournalism and how to bring your photos to life, and using this knowledge, build a portfolio of your work to pursue a career in this field!.

We are surrounded by images; in advertisements, on websites, in magazines, and on billboards. Learn how to effectively critique photographs so you can better understand composition and go on to create more eye-catching photographs on your own. Examine various aspects of the photography field including specialty areas, ethics, and famous photographers throughout history.

This course encourages students to explore the elements of drawing techniques. Upon completion of this course, students will have developed mastery in concepts, composition and execution of their own ideas. Students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the elements of art including texture, form shape, line and value. Students should also achieve a complete understanding of the principles of art including movement unity, harmony balance, contrast, proportion, pattern and rhythm.

A: Are you curious to see what it takes to educate and nurture early learners? Use your curiosity to explore the fundamentals of childcare, like nutrition and safety, but also the complex relationships caregivers have with parents and their children. Examine the various life stages of child development and the best educational practices to enrich their minds while thinking about a possible future as a childcare provider! B: Discover the joys of providing exceptional childcare and helping to develop future generations. Learn the importance of play and use it to build engaging educational activities that build literacy and math skills through each stage of childhood and special need. Use this knowledge to develop your professional skills well suited to a career in childcare.

Earth Space Science is an introductory course that builds on topics from earth and physical science as well as Earth’s place in the Universe. Topics include Earth’s resources, Earth’s surface systems, Climate, Earth-Sun-Moon System, and Earth’s place in the Universe.

Students master fundamental economic concepts, applying the tools (graphs, statistics, and equations) from other subject areas to the understanding of operations and institutions of economic systems. Studied in a historic context are the basic economic principles of micro and macroeconomics, international economics, comparative economic systems, measurement, and methods.

Discover how technology has changed the world around us by pursuing technological solutions to everyday problems. While using scientific and engineering methods, learn how electricity, electronic systems, magnets, and circuits work. Understand the design process and bring your ideas to life. Explore how engineering advances your ideas and the world!

In English 9, the first course in the high school English sequence, students will read a wide range of interesting and engaging materials, from canonical and contemporary novels to poetry to creative nonfiction, in order to draw comparisons to their worlds; reflect on theme, genre, tone, and literary style; and generate writing projects and responses of their own through journals, homework assignments, and the multi-draft writers’ process! Through these reading, writing, and conversations about content, students develop foundational skills in speaking, listening, critical thinking, academic research, reading comprehension, language and vocabulary usage skills.

English 10 students continue to develop literacy-related skills including: speaking and listening, academic research, higher-order reading comprehension, language usage, and written and rhetorical literary analysis. Students exercise critical thinking through the reading and analysis of various works of literature and multiple short- and extended-length writing assignments.

In English 11, students bridge the gap between the past and the world they inhabit now, and where they seek deeper meaning from the commonplace stories and messages we encounter daily. Students hone their emerging comprehension, critical analysis, and writing skills through a study of literature and key historical documents pertaining to the foundation and growth of the United States and its complex values, all while responding and crafting essay projects through a variety of writing styles, including journals, argumentative essays, creative writing, and personal narratives. Coming out of English 11, students may begin considering the ways their reading and writing skills, as well as those of argument and communication in general, may apply to their lives beyond the classroom, especially if students are considering applying to colleges or entering the professional workforce.

English 12 students achieve mastery of the skills related to listening and speaking, academic research, higher-order reading comprehension, language usage and writing, literary analysis, and critical thinking. Students study classical literature and modern works. Students engage in the cycle of writing, workshopping, and revising required of writers in order to produce polished final works.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Talk to your DSD and English teacher to see what creative solutions your campus may offer. Credits earned from this elective are applied to the minimum required elective credit for graduation and do not satisfy any subject-specific grad requirements.

This course is dedicated to understanding the interactions between Earth’s natural systems and the demands placed on them by the human population. Students explore natural phenomena as well as potential solutions to mitigate the consequences of human’s impact on our environment. Topics include Nutrient cycling, soil formation, resource management, and climate change.

Executive Skills is a two-term elective course that supports the development of key executive functioning skills that impact the daily lives of students. This course is individualized based on the unique strengths and areas of growth for the student determined by formal assessment, student and family surveys, and interviews. Based on a review of these points of information, 7-9 of the 11 skills are identified for focused development during the two terms of this course. Executive Skills empowers students to take control of their experiences through knowledge, strategies, practice, and real-life application.

Are you a fashion trend follower? Are you drawn to how designers have pulled together fabrics and colors to create memorable pieces? Do you dream of designing your own line of clothing or accessories? Learn what it takes to get started in the fashion industry, from the careers available to new technology and trends reshaping the industry every day. Start creating!

Fiber arts is a broad category of creative expression using materials that consist of fibers, including things such as fabric, yarn, and thread. This course is designed to introduce the student to a specific fiber art of their choice, such as embroidery, crochet, quilting, knitting, bead embroidery, cross-stitch, needlepoint, weaving, felting, macramé, lace making, latchhook/rug hooking, basketry, and sewing.

Forensic science focuses on the skills and concepts behind forensic science and crime scene investigation. Students will apply a wide range of science concepts in the context of crime investigation. Topics include fingerprinting, fiber analysis, trace evidence and crime scene processing.

Thriving forests are an essential part of the health of the planet, from our wildlife’s ecosystem to providing humans with clean air to lumber and paper products. But forests cannot protect themselves and depend greatly on humans for conservation. Learn more about this meaningful relationship and how environmental policy, land use, water resources, and wildlife management all factor into current forestry issues.

This course introduces students to the language, culture, and grammar of French and French-speaking countries. It covers basic conversation, verbs, grammar, cultural similarities and differences, listening, speaking, and writing in French.

French 2 furthers knowledge of French language, culture, and grammar acquired in French 1. It covers basic conversation, verbs, grammar, cultural similarities and differences, listening, speaking, and writing in French.

French 3 furthers knowledge of the French language, culture, and grammar acquired in French 2. It delves into the subtleties of French culture and covers many of the grammar points that are unique to the French language.

French 4 is an in-depth examination and application of the French language. Culture and history are explored through authentic texts. Students practice and strengthen interpersonal, interpretive and presentation skills in the context of cultural situations.

French 5 is an advanced French course designed to further the knowledge of the French language, culture, and grammar. Greater emphasis is on reading and writing in French.

A: Does your love of video games motivate you to pursue a career in this field? Pursue your passion by learning about the principles of game design through the stages of development, iterative process, critiques, and game development tools. Put these new skills to work by designing your own game! B: Now that you have the basics of game design down, let’s use your creativity to develop a game from start to finish! Develop your game creation skills and practice with the tools professionals use to launch your career options in the field of game design. The content of this course also applies to certification exams.

Are you ready to enter this multi-billion-dollar industry and start applying your technical skills into a compelling package that will catch the eye of an employer? Beginning with conceptualization and the design process, you’ll develop your game’s story elements, narrative, plot, characters, and assets. Using game design software, you’ll bring your game to life by applying lighting, audio, visual effects, player choice options, AI, and consider the type of controls to use for your game. Build a world players can get immersed in. B: You’ve already done the groundwork, and now it’s time to level up and launch! In Game Design 2b, you’ll take your runner game to new heights and enter the land of fire and ice using the cool tools that Unity has to offer! Get ready to build atmospheric landscapes, mountain runs, stair builds, and implement obstacles to keep your relic safe! Then, your real-world game begins: test and evaluate your game and prepare for a market launch! All of the moving parts of the game development process come together in this course, so you can unleash your game into the world!

Students make conjecture about geometric situations and prove, formally and informally, that their conclusion follows logically from a hypothesis. While integrating transformational and coordinate approaches to geometry, students will justify geometric relationships and properties of geometric figures.

German 1 is an entry-level course designed to introduce students to the language, culture, and grammar of Germany and German-speaking countries. It covers basic conversation, verbs, grammar, cultural similarities and differences, listening, speaking, and writing in German.

German 2 furthers students’ knowledge of the language, culture, and grammar of Germany and German-speaking countries.

Students continue their studies in German language and culture by building their communication skills across areas of culture, grammar, and community. This course offers a comprehensive sampling of cultures and dialects across many German cities and the major German-speaking nations.

Students build proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing and apply their skills in contemporary real-world contexts. By the end of the course, students will be able to engage in spontaneous conversation and accurately interpret and voice opinions on written and spoken German language.

Students will analyze systems that pervade our lives in the modern-day and how these systems both enable and disable societal growth. By looking into discrepancies at the global and local levels we can learn to analyze why global critical issues seem so intertwined and how each individual can make a positive impact.

It was a dark and stormy night, and the vampires, ghouls, and undead were on the prowl… Gothic Literature is riddled with the spooky, but did you know that this genre is so much more than a scary form of entertainment? In Gothic Literature, you’ll learn about how some of the world’s greatest authors from the 19th century through today used Gothic elements to tackle issues that needed serious attention: the class system, gender norms, racism, social injustice, and more! Grab your monster gear and explore why Gothic literature has retained its appeal even with today’s audiences.

Graphic Design provides students an understanding of the powerful role graphic design plays in shaping the way we see the world. The course instructs students in the language, elements, and practice of graphic design. Students will leave the course with an appreciation for the historical significance, as well as modern usage, of graphic design, as well as tools to create their own unique design pieces.

Does life exist on other planets? Will the issue of global warming ever be solved? Today, scientists, explorers, and writers are working to answer such questions. Like such famous minds from history as Edison, Einstein, Curie, and Newton, today’s scientists are finding ways to revolutionize our lives and the world. Explore the extraordinary work of past individuals and how their ideas may very well shape the world of tomorrow.

This course is for anyone who has ever wanted to learn how to play the guitar. Whether students are an absolute beginner or intermediate level player, each will be at home with the methods used in this class. Students will learn how to play chords and melodies, develop an appreciation for iconic guitarists, read standard notation and tablature, and play the songs they know and love.

This course is for anyone who has ever wanted to learn how to play the guitar. Whether students are an absolute beginner or intermediate level player, each will be at home with the methods used in this class. Students will learn how to play chords and melodies, develop an appreciation for iconic guitarists, read standard notation and tablature, and play the songs they know and love.

What does it mean to be healthy? In the simplest terms, it means taking care of our body and mind. Explore the connections between your physical, mental, and social health. Learn how to promote better health by decreasing stress and finding a fuller vision for your life through lifestyle choices, interactions with others, healthcare, and making sensible dietary choices. Build your plan to ensure your overall health, happiness, and well-being.

A: Finding effective solutions to different health problems is one of our greatest challenges. How close are we to finding a cure for cancer? What’s the best way to treat diabetes and asthma? You’ll be introduced to disciplines such as toxicology, clinical medicine, and biotechnology. Understanding the value of diagnostics and research can lead to better identification and treatment of many diseases, and by learning all the pertinent information and terminology you can discover how this amazing field will contribute to the betterment of human life in our future. B: Explore the roles health care professionals play in treating patients. Promoting wellness, communicating with patients, and understanding safety in the workplace are just a few of the essential skills you will learn, all the while becoming familiar with some of the more prominent areas in the field, such as emergency care, nursing, infection control, and pediatrics. You’ll learn about some of the inherent challenges faced by this age-old profession and how you can become a significant part of the solution.

This is an entry-level course in Modern Hebrew. It is a rigorous and fast-paced curriculum designed to introduce students to the language and culture of the people of Israel. It covers basic conversation, vocabulary, and grammar. The main goal of this course is to provide a sufficient level of reading fluency. Most students completing this course sequence will be able to decode successfully and engage in beginning dialogue dealing with familiar topics.

This course will strengthen the students’ knowledge of grammatical and syntactical structures, and improve their mastery of the language, while increasing vocabulary and functional communicative ability. Most students successfully completing this sequence can emerge with a proficiency level of “intermediate high” depending on motivation, effort, and diligence.

Students continue to advance their vocabulary and grammar, primarily through studying everyday events like going to restaurants or birthday parties. Additionally, students will study the controversial nature of Israel.

Students develop dialogue skills and study Israeli culture through reading Israeli literature and following current events.

Your future career is likely something you’ve dreamed about since you were a child. Now it’s time to turn that dream into a reality! In this course, you will explore your own strengths, interests, and preferences and use that information to uncover the best career for you! You will explore 17 career clusters, learn about the skills needed to work in different industries, and choose a path to pursue. You’ll build a plan to get you from high school to your first day on the job, and craft a strong portfolio to land your perfect job. You’ve dreamed about your future career. Now it’s time to create a plan and turn that dream into a goal!

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Talk to your DSD and history teacher to see what creative solutions your campus may offer. Credits earned from this elective are applied to the minimum required elective credit for graduation and do not satisfy any subject-specific graduation requirements.

Students discover the harrowing details of the history of the rise of anti-Semitism that contributed to the start of the Holocaust and the power of the Nazi party. Learn of the persecution of European Jews and other groups, and the tremendous aftermath for everyone involved in World War II, and what has been done since to combat genocide.

Where is your dream travel destination? Now imagine working there! You’ll be introduced to a thriving industry that caters to the needs of travelers through managing hotels, restaurants, cruise ships, resorts, theme parks, and any other kind of hospitality you can imagine. Operating busy tourist locations, creating marketing around leisure and travel, spotting trends, and planning events are just a few of the key aspects you will explore within this exciting field.

Students will explore a survey of humanities to gain diverse understanding of humankind. This course examines the interconnectedness of the human experience through the study of history, art, literature, rhetorical and critical analysis. Students will analyze and engage with literature, art, historical documents, political philosophy, scientific achievement and religion to explore and better understand the creative power of the human mind and spirit.

Illustration is an advanced course where students will create projects that explore the art techniques, methods, materials, mediums, and genres of illustration art. Students will create their own comprehensive planning sketchbook and refined illustrations that teach an understanding of composition, perspective, color theory, light physics, rendering, environment creation, human anatomy and proportion, and digital art development. While learning about and completing illustration tasks, students will also explore different genres and careers in illustration, including children’s literature illustration, concept art, environment design, character design, and sequential art illustration.

Integrated Math 1 is the first course in a 3-year sequence that integrates algebra and geometry topics in the context of real-world applications, while deepening numerical manipulation and reasoning skills. Students strengthen their algebra skills, including the use of variables, expressions, equations, ratios, proportions, and percentages; they formalize these relationships as functions and graphs, learning to identify and analyze key points. Geometrically, students deepen their understanding of constructions, proofs, parallel and perpendicular lines, transformations and congruence. Finally, students build on data and statistics primarily through measures of central tendency.

The second course in a three-year sequence, Integrated Math 2 emphasizes traditional geometric topics while building algebraic and statistical skills. Students study exponents and roots, polynomials, quadratics and functions. Students investigate relationships in triangles and quadrilaterals. This course also covers permutations and combinations, randomness, and probability distribution.

Integrated Math 3 is the final course in the three-year sequence covering the fundamentals of algebra, geometry, and statistics. Students learn techniques to gather, manipulate, and analyze data. Algebraic concepts include linear equations and inequalities, systems, quadratics, polynomials, and rational, radical, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Students study trigonometric functions more deeply and with an eye for manipulation. Students also cover arithmetic and geometric sequences and series.

Integrated Science 1 introduces the natural sciences as an integrated whole, drawing from Earth Science, Biology and Chemistry. Topics include Earth’s Materials, Atoms and Elements, Chemical reactions, Nature of Life, and Ecology.

Integrated Science 2 introduces the natural sciences as an integrated whole, drawing from Earth Science, Biology and Chemistry. Topics include Geology, Oceanography, Chemical Reactions, Cells, Genetics, and Climate Change.

Integrated Science 3 introduces the natural sciences as an integrated whole drawing from Earth Science, Biology and Chemistry. Topics include Astronomy, Meteorology, Dynamics of Chemical Reactions, Diversity of Life, and Evolution.

Do you have a flair for designing and decorating? If so, then let’s learn how to turn your interests and skills into a career. Explore color, texture, trends, and styles over time, how homes are built, and “green” options for homes and businesses. Interior designers do it all—from planning the color scheme to choosing furniture and light fixtures—with the end goal of creating a space where people can live or work comfortably, safely, and happily.

With the evolution of technology, our world is more connected than ever before, and the business community today is larger than ever. Gain the knowledge, skills, and appreciation to live and work in the global marketplace. You’ll begin to understand how both domestic and international businesses are affected by economic, social, cultural, political, and legal factors and what it takes to become a true manager of global business in the 21st century.

Have you ever wondered how products make it to store shelves? Goods we purchase must go through a manufacturing process before they can be marketed and sold. Learn about different types of manufacturing systems as well as career opportunities, including engineers, technicians, and supervisors. As a culminating project, you will plan your own manufacturing process and create an entirely original product! See how exciting, creative, and practical this industry can be.

Do you have any social media accounts? Learn the ins and outs of such social media platforms as Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google+, and more and how to use them for your benefit personally, academically, and, eventually, professionally. If you thought social media platforms were just a place to keep track of friends and share personal photos, this course will show you how to use these resources in much more powerful ways.

Students break down stereotypes and learn about feminism and the women’s movement. Learn to critically examine films while learning about the history of the women’s movement and how gender, race, and social class influence us. Women have earned their right to stand up and be recognized as equal partners and reap the benefits of their hard work. As the anonymous quote goes, “History is Herstory too.”

Students will learn the fundamentals of Italian grammar and pronunciation, how to converse on a limited scale about everyday topics, and how to write and understand Italian within the limits of the grammatical structures and vocabulary introduced in the course. Emphasis will be placed upon communication, and students will be exposed to some of the culture of Italy. Requires active participation in instructor-coordinated multimedia and online activities.

The student will learn the basics of navigating Italian language and culture. Students will build on previous skills in the areas of grammar and vocabulary, and will expand to new tenses, while also continuing to cover culture, regions, and history of Italy.

Italian 3 is a dynamic and engaging course that takes the student through daily life and current events in Italy, allowing for an interactive approach to learning the language. Students engage in a variety of conversations and activities that will lead to a higher level of comprehension and fluency.

Japanese 1 is an entry-level but rigorous Japanese course designed to introduce students to the language, culture, and grammar of Japanese. It covers basic conversation, verbs, grammar, cultural similarities and differences, listening, speaking, and writing in Japanese, with an emphasis on grammar, listening, and speaking.

Japanese 2 is designed to further the knowledge of Japanese language, culture, and grammar acquired in Japanese 1. It covers basic conversation, verbs, grammar, cultural similarities and differences, listening, speaking, and writing in Japanese.

Japanese 3 is a rigorous course designed to further the knowledge of Japanese language, culture, and grammar acquired in Japanese 1 and 2. It delves into the subtleties of Japanese culture and covers many of the grammar points that are unique to the Japanese language.

A: Does your curiosity lead you to the heart of the matter? Channel this curiosity into developing strong writing, critical thinking, and research skills to perform interviews and write influential pieces, such as articles and blog posts. Learn about the evolution of journalism and its ethics, bias, and career directions to forge your path in this field. B: Journalists are asked to tell the world a story every single day—and their job is, to tell the truth. Learn how to choose a topic, structure your story, research facts, hone your observational skills, and write an article following journalism tradition. Go beyond the print world and discover how journalism can lead to exciting careers that will put you right in the action.

This course is for juniors who are exploring post-secondary options: including 2 and 4-year colleges, GAP year, and/or career exploration. This course is a prerequisite for senior seminar and will support and guide students regarding this overall process. Some topics to be explored include; career assessments, college research websites and resources, essay tools, testing whether applicable, resume building, and social-emotional activities. Some of the content will vary based on fall or spring term.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Talk to your DSD and language teacher to see what creative solutions your campus may offer. Credits earned from this elective are applied to the minimum required elective credit for graduation and do not satisfy any subject-specific graduation requirements.

The purpose of this course is to give students a foundation in Latin grammar and vocabulary. This course also acquaints students with Olympic gods and with the everyday life of the typical Roman. The course sets the students’ feet on a journey as big as their imagination, with a passport to some of the world’s most exciting places.

In this course, students build on their knowledge of Latin grammar and vocabulary. In the process, they sense the beauty of the language and the passion of those who spoke it. A clear, expressive, and flexible language—a language in which students can communicate—supports Roman engineering, art, commerce, and system of laws. This course gives students a solid grounding in the structure of the language. It also gives them a clear lens for looking into the heart and majesty of the Roman spirit.

In Latin 3, students take their knowledge and appreciation of Latin to the next level. Students read some of the best Latin prose and poetry ever written or spoken. Caesar tells how he conquered the three parts of Gaul. Cicero reminds Romans of the virtues that made their country great. Catullus shows how he could express the deepest human emotions in just a few, well-chosen words. Students’ skills with the Latin language give them direct access to the beauty and power of these great authors’ thoughts. The purpose of this course is to strengthen students’ Latin vocabulary as well as their appreciation for well-crafted writing. Students go directly to the source and recognize why Latin and those who spoke it are still relevant today.

Students interact with advanced grammar primarily through Latin poetry and prose. Students learn the influence the Romans had on their own culture and the world.

Imagine if there were no laws and people could do anything they wanted. Every society needs some form of regulation to ensure peace in our daily lives and in the broader areas of business, family disputes, traffic violations, and the protection of children. Explore the importance of laws and how their application affects us as individuals and communities. Through understanding the court system and how laws are actually enacted, you’ll learn to appreciate the larger legal process and how it safeguards us all.

In this one-term course, students will learn how to prepare and step into Leadership opportunities. This course will smooth the transition from individual contributor to supervisor to leader. The course will teach basics and gain insights into the more advanced aspects of leadership needed to inspire and motivate teams by having students complete a leadership project.

What do you want out of life? How do you achieve your dreams for the future? These can be difficult questions to answer, but they don’t have to be with the right tools. Learn more about yourself and prepare for the future through goal setting, decision making, surviving college and career, and how to become a valuable contributing member of society. It’s your life; make it count!

This entry-level course covers the basics of Chinese Mandarin, including pronunciation, grammar fundamentals, the Pinyin system, sentence pattern and structure, and vocabulary. Topics include greetings, names, nationalities, studies, introductions, time and schedules.

This course continues to develop the foundation of sentence structure, idiomatic expressions, and listening, speaking, and written competence in Mandarin. Students learn to make requests, to discuss hobbies and sports, and weather and seasons.

Students continues to develop their listening, speaking, reading and written competencies through studies of Chinese culture.

Students continues to build skills through meaningful communication for functional and pragmatic purposes in Mandarin. Students also build more cultural awareness.

Students are prepared practically to achieve concrete linguistic and cultural skills that will allow for real-life interaction and highly dynamic communication with the people of China as college students or working professionals. This course is entirely immersive and emphasizes reading authentic Chinese literature.

Marine Biology is an introduction to marine wildlife and marine habitats. Topics include ocean exploration, marine environments, diversity of marine life, threats to marine ecosystems.

A: Explore the fast-paced and exciting world of marketing! Learn about the role of marketing in business in addition to the basics of business management, customer service, and economics. Examine how to identify target markets, perform market research, and develop successful marketing strategies. Discover the legal and ethical considerations of business and marketing, along with the impact of government on business. B: Dig deeper into the world of marketing and what it means for business success! Become a marketing mix pro by studying understanding branding, advertising, promotion strategies, and more, through real-world applications and practices. And explore the secrets of advertising and promotion. Learn about effective sales techniques and discover employment opportunities to pursue a career in this exciting field!

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Talk to your DSD and math teacher to see what creative solutions your campus may offer. Credits earned from this elective are applied to the minimum required elective credit for graduation and do not satisfy any subject-specific graduation requirements.

This course aims to elevate the happiness levels of our students by equipping them with the skills needed to thrive in an increasingly complex world. We utilize cutting-edge research from the fields of positive psychology, neuroscience, evolutionary biology, and beyond.

Mindshift: The Science of Learning takes students on an introspective journey through which they discover their unlimited potential. Students unpack the research that proves that intelligence is not fixed and understand that they have the capacity to learn and change by rewiring their brain. By recognizing the power of grit, students redefine the qualities of a genius and reframe failure to recognize that perseverance is an incredible trait. Before students complete the course, they will evaluate their priorities and learn strategies for managing their stress in order to confidently approach their responsibilities.

The Mindshift: Study Skills course is designed to teach students new tools and strategies for consistent academic success. Through this course, students will build a greater self-awareness of how they most effectively learn. Students will participate in activities that will help them learn how to get organized, create effective study habits, use their planner, complete assignments, understand their learning style, improve memory, become a better note-taker, and prepare/study for their exams. After completing this course, students will be able to select and use strategies from a resource bank when encountering new academic issues. Additionally, students will be able to select and demonstrate various study and test taking strategies and methods to meet the demands of their courses.

Have you ever heard a music piece that made you want to get up and dance, sing, or even cry? Regardless of the genre, music moves us. Explore the elements and pieces of music. And learn through the historical context, musicians and composers, and influence of music from the Middle Ages to the 21st century, on how to listen and really hear the different music that makes up our world.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Talk to your DSD and music teacher to see what creative solutions your campus may offer. Credits earned from this elective are applied to the minimum required elective credit for graduation and do not satisfy any subject-specific graduation requirements.

This course will take the student into the theoretical concepts of harmony. Coursework includes a complete study of intervals, chord construction, chord voicing, harmonized scales and modes of the major, melodic minor, harmonic minor, and diminished scales emphasizing instrumental application.

Since the beginning of time, people have gathered around fires to tell stories of angry gods, harrowing journeys, cunning animals, horrible beasts, and the mighty heroes who vanquished them. Mythology and folklore have provided a way for these colorful stories to spring to life for thousands of years and helped humans make sense of the world. Explore how these compelling tales continue to shape society even today.

To keep our body and our mind running like finely tuned machines, we need to use the right fuel. For humans, that means nourishing our bodies with the right foods. In this course, you’ll explore how food affects essential aspects of your life from your weight to how you age to how well you think. You’ll also examine how outside influences- family, peers, and the media- can affect your diet and your perception of food and how to set yourself up for nutritional success. Are you interested in a career in holistic wellness? Start your health journey now with Nutrition and Wellness.

Discover the real-world uses of Microsoft Excel and its impact on business, academic, and personal applications. Move from inserting and manipulating data, to working with tables, charts, graphs, and calculations.

Master your email and learn about Outlook’s functions to produce professional communications, helping you to succeed in business and in life. Understand effective communication techniques, working with attachments, formatting, replying, and organizing. Be prepared for your day with other features such as calendars, contacts, and tasks.

Learn to create clean and professional presentations while also building your skills as a speaker, leader, and marketer! Create and format presentations while inserting multimedia, images, transitions, and animations to make a dynamic final product!

Learn to effectively and efficiently use one of the most common tools of business, school, and personal correspondence! Discover how to format and style documents using fonts, colors and editing tools, create tables, use bullets and numbering, and insert images.

Organic chemistry is a two-term elective that dives deeper into the structure and behavior or carbon-containing compounds. Topics include nomenclature, structure, properties, isomerization, and stereochemistry.

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Talk to your DSD to see what creative solutions your campus may offer. Credits earned from this elective are applied to the minimum required elective credit for graduation and do not satisfy any subject-specific graduation requirements.

What does being fit really mean? It’s not only about losing weight. Being fit is about living life to the fullest and making the most of what you have yourself! You’ll learn about body functions, safety, diet, goals, and strategies for longevity. Explore the world of healthy living and see how real fitness can be achieved through intention, effort, and just the right amount of knowledge.

Students may enroll in an off-campus independent PE. This course must be supervised and documented by a fitness expert for the requisite number of hours per term. This course is graded as pass/fail.

This course is designed to introduce students, safely and accessibly, to the basic postures, breathing techniques, and relaxation methods of yoga. Students will begin to experience the benefits of stretching, moving, and breathing freely as they relieve built up stress, learn to relax, and ultimately get more out of day-to-day life. The aim of this course is to promote vibrant health and to tap the body’s latent energy reserves.

This one-term course explores the elements of techniques with emphasis upon observation, imagination, experimentation, and composition. Students will learn basic as well as advanced painting techniques and will develop intense skill-development in color theory and brush techniques alongside painting history and theory. Students gain an understanding of different paint mediums and the characteristics of each. Students study the different movements in art, and the important figures in each. The class will use a sketchbook and will take virtual field trips to museums as well as complete final paintings.

Are you a great listener and love to help people achieve their goals? The role of a peer counselor is a rewarding one. Learn the skills of observation, listening, and emphatic communication that counselors need, while also discovering basic training in conflict resolution and group leadership. You’ll learn how to be a great peer counselor, but also how to communicate effectively in personal and work relationships.

Students will be introduced to significant ideas they need to successfully navigate the financial aspects of adult life. Course topics include our day-to-day financial needs, investing and savings, and credit, loans, and the financial impact of education.

In this course, students consider many questions about the truth in our lives and finding the line between storytelling and personal history as they read a range of contemporary autobiographies and memoirs. Students explore how writers compose their lives, construct an identity, and create a somewhat coherent self often against personal, societal, and cultural obstacles.

Students will think about ‘deep’ questions like “Who am I?” “What do I really know about the world?” If so, you’re not alone. Philosophers are some of the most brilliant and influential thinkers, some of whom have influenced many of our fundamental ideas in Western civilization, such as government, law, and society. Learn about famous philosophers and explore some of the same questions these great thinkers pondered.

Physics is a rigorous course that explores the major concepts in physics both conceptually and mathematically. While not calculus-based, students should be highly competent in formula manipulation and all mathematical operations. Topics include Newtonian Mechanics such as motion, forces, and conservation of energy, as well as thermodynamics, waves, electricity, and magnetism.

Students will learn the basic skills needed to play the piano successfully, both in reading from a score and playing off of a lead sheet. Students will learn elementary theory (music notation, rhythm, key signatures, major and minor scales, chord structure and type, and basic chord progressions). Towards the end of the year students will be exposed to the technique of improvisation and by the end of the course students will learn how to critique their own music and the music of others using the correct vocabulary.

Students participate in close readings of selected poems from multiple genres. By examining the work of a diverse group of poets, students develop methods of critiquing while reinforcing understanding of poetic devices. Substantial time is spent analyzing poetry as well as using poetic devices in their own writing.

This course prepares the student to develop a creative portfolio of student work representing a selection of performance(s) in music or art. Students illustrate unique talent and personality in a professional works portfolio through the collection and organization of pieces. This course may be leveraged to prepare a portfolio for post-secondary admissions.

Positive Psychology is designed to explore a balanced, more complete view of human functioning by including both positive and negative views of reality. This course will delve into the growing field of positive psychology through many pioneering contributions, through reflections on current events and research, and through personal mini-experiments and life enhancement strategies.

Pre-Algebra prepares students for Algebra 1. The course covers five main areas of mathematics: the number system, expressions and equations, functions, geometry, and statistics and probability. Students extend their fundamental knowledge of algebraic concepts to include the concept of a function, and to extrapolate to make predictions using data.

Students build on Algebra 2 and trigonometry topics covered in previous classes. This course covers polynomial, power, rational, exponential, logistic, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions. Students explore trigonometric identities, vectors, matrices, conic sections, series and sequences, and combinatorics. This course prepares students for calculus by providing an introduction to limits and derivatives.

Did you know that the world’s population could be 11 billion people by 2050? With a growing population, how do we keep everyone fed? This is where the importance of agriculture, food, and natural resources comes in! Gain a stronger sense of how we can maximize the foods and natural resources the earth provides. Learn more about agriculture’s history, animal husbandry, plant science, and natural resources, and you’ll be better prepared for your part in sustaining the world.

Public service is a field that focuses on building a safe and healthy world, and you’ll explore the many different career choices that are imperative to our comfort and success as a society. The protection of society is not only one of our greatest challenges, but it also provides ways for people to work together to ensure safety and provide indispensable services. If you have ever contemplated being one of these real-life heroes, now is the time to learn more!

Students will analyze the thoughts, emotions, and behaviors of self and others is critical to developing and maintaining interpersonal relationships. In Psychology, students learn theories of historically significant psychologists who laid the foundation for scientific research and a clearer understanding of the human mind. This course explores how psychological perspectives influence personality and play a role in human development across the lifespan. Students examine how behaviors are developed, memories are stored and language is acquired. Students also learn about the symptoms and classifications of psychological disorders, along with the various forms of treatments available. After completing this course, students will be equipped with problem-solving strategies and even learn methods to cope with stress. Practical, everyday application of the content is a focus of this course.

As you move through high school to college or to your career, the types of writing and documents become more high stakes. Real-world information can be journalistic and researched-based articles, legal, insurance, college entrance forms, employment, vehicle-related documents, and more. Learn how to critically read, write, and evaluate real-world writings to set you up for your future success.

Students study the science and mechanics of digital recording. This course lays theoretical groundwork in acoustics and their relationships to electronic equipment used in the recording industry. The course equips students with the fundamental concepts and terminology necessary to pursue a career in the recording arts, and to establish a foundation for higher-level courses in the audio programs.

Students of this course study a more in-depth science and mechanics of digital audio recording and composition. This course expands on Recording Arts 1, focusing on digital recording systems and their relationships to electronic equipment used in the recording industry. The course equips students with the fundamental concepts and terminology necessary to pursue a career in the recording arts, and to establish an advanced skill set in Audio Production.

Renewable Technologies are becoming increasingly important as concerns about climate change, the use of fossil fuels, and population growth become foremost in the public eye. So, how do we address the world’s growing concerns about energy sources? Uncover the development of new energy technologies and explore how recent approaches to renewable technologies unlock the solution needed for a safer, cleaner, and more enduring world.

As you move through high school to college or to your career, the types of writing and documents become more high stakes. Real-world information can be journalistic and researched-based articles, legal, insurance, college entrance forms, employment, vehicle-related documents, and more. Learn how to critically read, write, and evaluate real-world writings to set you up for your future success.

Have you ever dreamed of running your own restaurant? Explore exactly what’s needed to run a successful restaurant, including ordering supplies, hiring quality workers, maintaining inventory, and managing a large staff. Understanding such concepts as food safety, hygiene, customer relations, marketing, and using a point-of-sale system are crucial to being an effective restaurateur. Whether you are hoping to operate a casual sit-down eatery, oversee a fine dining establishment, or buy a food franchise, this course is the perfect first step.

The Roadtrip Nation experience is about engaging students with their futures. Through the power of storytelling, students gain insight into career paths by watching (and eventually conducting) interviews. These interviews are of leaders in the world who are successful doing what they love and living passionate lives. Students learn about themselves, how they perceive themes such as success, failure, and risk, and explore their interests by connecting them to pathways.

A: Are you fascinated with how machines work? Robots are machines, and they are all around us, from helping doctors in surgeries to helping to keep our homes clean. Explore the physics, mechanics, motion, and the engineering design and construction aspects used to develop robots. Learn how models are created through both sketches and software. Discover STEM careers and the education needed to enter this high-demand field. B: The robots have invaded… and they’re here to make our lives easier. You’ve learned about the basics of robotics and STEM careers, but now we’re going to learn about manipulating the physical world to create desired effects. In this course, you’ll learn to manipulate electrical signals to create logic and memory, how to quantify the physical world through variables, and how to have an impact through tools. You’ll discover how to choose the best tools and materials, how to create AI, and how to take an idea from initial planning to a completed project. Let’s continue the pursuit of a career in robotics so the friendly invasion can thrive!

Don’t see what you’re looking for? Talk to your DSD and science teacher to see what creative solutions your campus may offer. Credits earned from this elective are applied to the minimum required elective credit for graduation and do not satisfy any subject-specific graduation requirements.

Screenwriting provides writers the opportunity to develop a short script or the first act of a feature-length screenplay while increasing use and knowledge of individual voice, three-act structure, Hero’s Journey steps, and screenwriting technical skills. Students will focus on dialogue writing, tone, creating characters, mood, and conflict, and creating a story arc that encompasses elements of a plotline.

This course will support and guide students towards life after high school (whether they do the 2-4 year college track, gap year, career planning, employment, etc.) In addition, GAP year, career planning and/or employment is part of the research and larger conversation depending on each individual student. An individual plan and timeline are dependent on each student, and the hallmark of this course. The time of year will also create a detailed focus depending on the student's goals, and timeline. Some activities and topics will include the application process, testing recommendations, essay tips, resume building, essays, scholarships, and overall guiding students throughout this journey. Social-emotional supports and activities are also embedded throughout.

Students learn how to create societal impact through Social Entrepreneurship. Social Entrepreneurship is described as the discovery and sustainable exploration of opportunities to create social change. Students are guided through the process of identifying an opportunity to address social problems through the use of their newly developed business skills.

This course explores the many social justice issues facing the United States and the world today and empowers students to approach a social justice issue and create a sustainable action plan. A primary goal of the first term is to offer the students an all-encompassing view of inequality in our society by examining major issues such as racism, privilege, and oppression across historical and cultural boundaries. The second term of this course expands upon this foundation by providing a closer look at more micro social justice issues.

to these social problems such as war, crime, poverty, global warming, healthcare, effects of media, and more. What effects do they have on our lives and societies? What possible solutions exist for solving them? Discover what measures you can take to tackle these issues head-on and start to develop your plan of action. Understand the challenges we face as individuals and as a global society and learn what we can do to reduce the effects of these conflicts and problems. From drug abuse to terrorists to homelessness and obesity, we can better face and solve these problems when we have a deeper understanding of their causes and influences on our lives

A: Human beings are complex creatures, and when we interact and begin to form relationships and societies, things become even more complicated. Are we more likely to act differently in a group than we will when we’re alone? How do we learn how to be “human”? Examine answers to these questions and many more as you explore culture, group behavior, and societal institutions and how they affect human behavior. B: Have you ever looked at your social media feed and wondered why there is always so much fighting over social issues? Discover how social institutions like families, religion, government, and education shape our world and how collective behavior and social movements can create change. Investigate how our lives are shaped by entertainment, social institutions, and social change.

This course is an introduction to the study of voice as a musical instrument. A great song needs more than a beat and a talented singer, it needs structure and powerful words. Learn how to craft a song using form and lyrics, as well as other collaborative techniques used by all kinds of artists.

Spanish 1 is an entry-level Spanish course designed to introduce students to the language, culture, and grammar of Spanish and Spanish-speaking countries. It covers basic conversations, verbs, grammar, cultural similarities and differences, listening, speaking, and writing in Spanish.

Spanish 2 continues to increase knowledge of the language, culture, and grammar of Spanish-speaking countries. Language skills are increased through oral communication, reading, and by introducing advanced grammatical concepts.

Spanish 3 emphasizes Spanish grammar, reading, writing, and oral communication. Students also study in depth the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. The course focuses on researching current events in those Latin American countries.

Spanish 4 builds on the knowledge of language, culture, and grammar from previous years, delving into the subtleties of Spanish culture, writers from different generations, and different styles of writing. Also included is a study of the history and culture of each author’s native country. Students are required to do independent research and creative writing.

This course is entirely immersive, and students will study the history and current events of Spanish-speaking countries through literature, periodicals, documentaries, and projects.

A: Do you strive to gain more confidence when speaking in front of people? Learn techniques from famous speakers throughout history while learning what it takes to make a great speech. Develop skills that will serve you well throughout your career and personal life. B: Bring your speeches to life by learning about body language, vocal, and other techniques. Learn about logic and reason while gaining the confidence to help create and deliver great presentations and speeches. You will also critically examine your speeches and presentations and those of others to improve upon your in-person and virtual presentation skills.

The world of sports and entertainment is never boring. This field offers careers that combine entertainment with traditional marketing, but with a whole lot more glamour. Explore basic marketing principles while delving deeper into the multi-billion dollar sports and entertainment industry. Learn how professional athletes, sports teams, and famous entertainers are marketed as commodities and how the savvy people who handle these deals can become very successful.

A fascinating advanced math course for the student looking to take a break from traditional graphs and functions, and learn to intelligently interpret and discuss data. Students learn how to use data, statistics, and probability to make inferences about populations, as well as the limitations and common pitfalls in data analysis. The formulas can be long and challenging, but the concepts are always rooted in real-world applications.

Studio Art is an introductory art course that provides the foundation for art appreciation and production. Students participate in and are exposed to the elements and principles of art, techniques, art history, and criticism through hands-on creation.

Advanced Studio Art is designed to broaden a student’s understanding of artistic perception, creative expression, historical and cultural content, aesthetic valuing, and connections to the visual arts. Students will add original works to a growing portfolio that demonstrates growth in refined craftsmanship, and further mastery of techniques in the visual arts.

The Lord of the Rings is one of the most popular stories in the modern world. In this course, you will study the movie versions of J.R.R. Tolkien’s novel and learn about the process of converting literature to film. You will explore fantasy literature as a genre and critique the three Lord of the Rings films.

The Science and Practice of Mindfulness teaches students how to practice mindfulness and the positive effects on the brain, parasympathetic nervous system, and neuroplasticity, which is the brain’s ability to transform and change.

Lights! Camera! Action! Let’s explore the enchanting world of live theater and its fascinating relationship to the silver screen. In Theater, Cinema, and Film Production, you’ll learn the basics of lighting, sound, wardrobe, and camera-work while examining the magic that happens behind all the drama. Delve into the glamorous history of film and theater, and examine the tremendous influence these industries have had on society and culture over the years. During this unit, you’ll discuss and analyze three classic American films “Casablanca, Singing in the Rain, and The Wizard of Oz” to help you learn how to critique and appreciate some of the most famous dramas of all time.

Students examine the origins of the U.S. constitutional system, analyze the structure and function of modern U.S. government and politics, and explores the role of the citizen in a representative democracy.

Students examine a comprehensive overview of United States history, surveying the major events and turning points of U.S. history as it moves from the foundations of the nation through present day. As students analyze each era of history, they will analyze primary sources and carefully research events to gain a clearer understanding of the factors that have shaped U.S. history.

Whether you want to step into the wild side of veterinary medicine or just take care of lovable dogs and cats, explore how to care for domestic, farm, and wild animals, diagnose their common diseases and ailments, and learn about different veterinary treatments. If you have always been drawn to the world of our furry, scaly, and feathered friends, this is the course for you!

This course is an introduction to the study of voice as a musical instrument and the development of technique in performance and musical ear training. The student will learn to approach singing from more of a technical standpoint that will not only strengthen their performance abilities, but help to safeguard from health issues related to poor singing technique. This course will give the student an opportunity to not only discover their own voice, but also improve breath control, vocal range, tone, belting ability, clarity and pitch.

This course is an introduction to the study of voice as a musical instrument and the development of technique in performance and musical ear training. The student will learn to approach singing from more of a technical standpoint that will not only strengthen their performance abilities, but help to safeguard from health issues related to poor singing technique. This course will give the student an opportunity to not only discover their own voice, but also improve breath control, vocal range, tone, belting ability, clarity and pitch.

A: How many times per day do you access the internet, including social media? The web is an important part of our daily lives, so it’s no surprise that web development is one of the hottest career fields. Start to explore professional web development, including how to create content for the web. You’ll learn about topics such as servers, file organization, HTML, CSS, Javascript, and the development stack that will let you build any website you can dream up. B: Websites need to be functional, but they need to look great while doing the job! Now that you’ve learned how to create web content, you’ll learn how to apply design principles, like color combinations and font choices, to achieve the greatest impact. You’ll also learn the behind-the-scenes tasks of organizing your files, ensuring website accessibility, following intellectual property regulations, and performing site backup and maintenance. Let’s unravel the web development process!

You’ve already experienced web development on a smaller scale, but now, it’s time to kick it up a notch! You’ll hit the ground running with the Agile methodology of software development and how it plays into leadership and teamwork amongst developers. You’ll also approach web development from a different perspective- your users!- and you’ll learn to speak the language of JavaScript to enhance your web development efforts. Your efforts will commence in a professional portfolio that will allow you to experience GitHub to display your work. Let’s get that framework going!

The Fusion Wellness Program is dedicated to assisting our students develop an active process of becoming aware of, and making choices toward, a more successful existence. Using four key disciplines, Emotional Wellness, Physical Wellness, Art Expression, and Music Expression, Fusion students will develop a sense of well-being and will be capable of making healthier choices. This course is graded as pass/fail.

This course is designed for the student to explore and learn outside of the classroom through an unpaid/paid internship, community service, or formal work experience. Students who participate in this course are expected to use real world experience for personal and educational growth. Regular reflection on their experiences and goals are expected as is the recording of hours. At the conclusion of the course, the student will submit a final reflective paper that demonstrates use of Fusion’s Schoolwide Learner Outcomes as well as a final creative project of their choice. Students are required to complete 80 hours in their work position.

Students will examine major turning points that shaped the modern world, from the late eighteenth century through the present. Students learn about the socioeconomic conditions, political institutions, and ideological attitudes that have marked various time periods throughout history. This course is also known as Modern World History.

This course focuses on the fun and practical applications of any language. Technical aspects of any language are covered to improve communication, and cultural aspects are emphasized to promote effective language use and interaction. Students should have a background in a world language, or take this concurrently with a language course.

Students explore the major religions that have played a role in human history, including Buddhism, Christianity, Confucianism, Hinduism, Islam, Judaism, Shintoism, and Taoism. Throughout the ages, religions worldwide have shaped the political, social, and cultural aspects of societies. Trace the major developments in these religions and examine their relationships with social institutions and culture, as well as the similarities and differences and connections and influences they have.

Zoology studies the diversity of animals, from the simple sponge to the elephant. This course will survey the major phyla of the kingdom Animalia including anatomy, physiology, interrelationships, and habitat.