Scope:

Introduction to fundamental writing and language skills for expression in a variety of essay formats.

Course compass:

You will concentrate on practical writing skills, read and write in a variety of writing processes, such as narrative, process, expository, and argumentative essays. Reading and writing competencies are integrated throughout students' learning experiences.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Analyze model essays and contemporary writing
• Learn to write using process strategies
• Employ organization and support appropriate to text development
• Concentrate on practical writing skills
• Identify and edit errors in spoken and written language.
• Learn correct grammar conventions and language use through reading and spoken communication
• Employ writing to communicate info and ideas for workplace and for life
• Relate analyzed readings to real life situations
• Refine vocabulary for interpersonal, academic, workplace, and technical meanings

Scope:

Encourage students to use and apply their strengths in reading and comprehending literary works, writing to specific genres, grammar, and visual literacy.

Course compass:

You will have various opportunities to utilize designated readings and research to begin to learn and understand more about diverse cultures and the unique traits of others. You will learn to communicate in different contexts, for different purposes, and with different audiences.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Explore language to express individual perspectives in response to personal, social, cultural, and historical issues.
• Gain knowledge in the act of forming an argument, following through, and coming up with an applicable solution
• Develop and apply critical thinking skills in order to analyze and evaluate text and multimedia.
• Read a variety of literary genres (fiction, nonfiction, drama, and poetry) for understanding and analysis.
• Become acquainted with literary devices, such as, figurative language, dialogue, flashback, allusion, and irony while understanding the use of elements in plot, theme, narrator, point-of-view, characterization, mood, and style.
• Be exposed to correct grammar conventions and language use through reading and spoken communication.
• Employ writing to communicate information and ideas for workplace and for life
• Relate analyzed readings to real life situations

Scope:

Introduction to American literature as a springboard for understanding the power and impact of language.

Course compass:

You will examine various genres including: novels, poetry, short stories, essays, and editorials to determine the author's purpose and point of view. This will help enhance your ability to communicate in the written word. You will also be able to differentiate between creative and business writing.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Determine author's purpose and point of view
• Examine themes, universal truths and writing styles
• Relate analyzed readings to real life situations
• Continue the development of literary, composition, and communication skills learned in Everyday Language and Literature and Introduction to Composition
• Employ writing to communicate information and ideas for workplace and for life
• Focus on problem solving
• Refine vocabulary for interpersonal, academic, workplace, and technical meanings

Scope:

Introduction to fundamental writing and language skills for expression in a variety of essay formats.

Course compass:

You will concentrate on practical writing skills, read and write in a variety of writing processes, such as narrative, process, expository, and argumentative essays. Reading and writing competencies are integrated throughout students' learning experiences.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Analyze model essays and contemporary writing
• Learn to write using process strategies
• Employ organization and support appropriate to text development
• Concentrate on practical writing skills
• Identify and edit errors in spoken and written language.
• Learn correct grammar conventions and language use through reading and spoken communication
• Employ writing to communicate info and ideas for workplace and for life
• Relate analyzed readings to real life situations
• Refine vocabulary for interpersonal, academic, workplace, and technical meanings

Scope:

To understand the development of the world community within the context of history by examining connections to the past to prepare for the future as participating members of a global society.

Course compass:

You will use knowledge of history, geography, economics, political processes, religion, ethics, diverse cultures, and humanities to solve problems in academic, civic, social, and employment settings. This course provides an understanding of how significant experiences of the past shape contemporary civilizations; of the impact of physical and cultural geography on the development of civilizations; of the impact of significant people, places, ideas, and events on the development of values, traditions, and social, economic, and political institutions in Eastern and Western civilizations; and of current and historic events in relation to the experiences, contributions, and perspectives of diverse cultural and ethnic groups.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Development of civilizations in historical and geographical settings
• Individuals and events that have significantly influenced culture and history
• Major political, economic, social, and religious beliefs and institutions of relevant Eastern and Western cultures
• Importance of participation for members of a global society and how this knowledge might apply to workplace settings

Scope:

Enables you to gain an understanding of American government and political behavior that is essential for effective citizenship and active involvement in a democratic American society.

Course compass:

This course provides knowledge and decision-making tools necessary for understanding how society organizes its limited resources to satisfy its wants. You will examine and evaluate the choices they must make as producers, consumers, investors, and taxpayers.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Interrelationships between American government and the American economic system
• Documents that shape political traditions, including the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution, the Bill of Rights and the Federalist Papers
• Functions of the three branches of government at the national level
• Career opportunities available in government services
• Importance of civic participation in the democratic political process
• Role of women and diverse cultural groups in the development of the political system
• Economic reasoning
• Labor issues
• Principles of decision-making in the marketplace
• Productive resources
• Personal economic skills and the role of money

Scope:

To understand the development of the United States within the context of history by examining connections to the past to prepare for the future as participating members of a democratic society.

Course compass:

You will use knowledge pertaining to history, geography, economics, political processes, religion, ethics, diverse cultures, and humanities to solve problems in academic, civic, social, and employment settings. This course provides an understanding of the impact of significant people, ideas, and events on the development of values, traditions, and social, economic, and political institutions in the United States; of the impact of values and ideals reflected in United States historical documents and symbols on United States society; of the rights, liberties, and obligations of citizenship in various periods of United States history.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Political, economic, technological, and social development of the United States
• Time-space relationships
• Impact of expansion on the development of America
• Political, social, and economic conflicts and compromise
• Influence of diverse groups on cultural development of the United States
• Key concepts of the U.S. Constitution and other historical documents
• Importance of participation of members of American society and how this knowledge might apply to workplace settings

Scope:

The basics of algebra, with an emphasis on using algebra in real-world situations.

Course compass:

This course begins with an introduction to the language of algebra and algebraic operations. Each successive skill set builds on what youve learned previously to help you develop a set of problem-solving skills that will prepare you for more advanced math courses.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Real number systems
• Algebraic properties
• Interpreting data
• Solving equations
• Graphing linear functions
• Ratios, proportions, and percent
• Statistics and probability
• Introduction to polynomials

Scope:

The fundamentals of two-dimensional and three-dimensional Geometry.

Course compass:

The course begins with the building blocks of geometry and builds toward increasingly complex 2-D and 3-D geometric figures. As you move through the course, you will examine the relationships that govern geometric shapes and solids. But more importantly, you'll learn how to apply logical reasoning and systematic thinking in real-world situations.

• Points, lines, planes, and angles
• Logic and geometric proofs
• Coordinate geometry
• Triangle and quadrilaterals
• Circles and spheres
• Polygons
• Transformations and tessellations
• Surface area and volume

Scope:

Intermediate algebra and basic trigonometry.

Course compass:

This course begins with brief review of Algebra 1 before introducing more advanced topics in algebra and trigonometry. You will examine in-depth algebraic concepts that will prepare you for future studies in college-level math courses.

• Linear equations and systems
• Polynomial and rational functions
• Radical equations
• Quadratic equations and complex numbers
• Parabolas, circles, ellipses, and hyperbolas
• Exponential and logarithmic functions
• Basic trigonometry

Scope:

Introduction to the concepts of matter, energy, and forces, and their applications through exploratory investigations and activities.

Course compass:

Includes laboratory investigations that incorporate the use of measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus, safety procedures, and experimental procedures.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Unifying concepts and processes of science
• Structure of atoms
• Structure and properties of matter
• Chemical reactions
• Entropy and conservation of energy
• Interactions of energy and matter
• Motions and forces
• Interactions among science, technology, and society

Scope:

Introduction to general biology concepts, exploratory experiences, applications, and activities relating to biology.

Course compass:

Laboratory investigations of biology concepts that incorporate the use of measurement, problem solving, laboratory apparatus, safety procedures, and experimental procedures (e.g., designing, recording, and communicating). The course will examine the composition and interaction of living things: major systems, structural basis of most organisms, interactions of organisms with each other and with the nonliving parts of their environments, and principles of genetics, heredity, and diversity.

In-depth material at a glance:

• The nature of science
• Cell biology and the chemical basis of life
• Plants, animals, and microorganisms
• General organization of the living world
• Genetics, heredity, and diversity
• Systems of the human body
• Ecology and human impact
• Biological change through time
• Careers and technology in the life sciences

Scope:

Learn to explore the ecological interactions between living things and the environment. The systematic study of global realms - atmosphere, hydrosphere, lithosphere, and biosphere - provides students with an understanding of natural processes.

Course compass:

The course provides an overview of the nature of ecosystems, energy flow and interrelationships of biology, geology, and chemical cycles; population studies; organization and dynamics of ecological communities; and environmental pollution.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Implementation of scientific habits of mind
• Application of scientific knowledge, methodology, and historical context to solve problems
• Use of laboratory technologies
• Earth dynamics
• Influence of technology on environmental quality
• Use and conservation practices
• Biodiversity
• Environmental planning and waste management
• Environmental monitoring and policy
• Sustainable use of public land
• Characteristics of populations
• Biotic and abiotic environmental factors
• Energy production technologies

Scope:

This course is an introductory course in Spanish, which teaches the student basic vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and punctuation.

Course compass:

The course will equip students with a solid foundation for the future study of the Spanish language. The primary goal of this course is to lead students toward proficiency in the basics of the Spanish language and allow students to express themselves in the most common situations. Also embedded in lessons are crossword puzzles, essays, and translation activities. Special features of this course include voice email and voice board which allow students to practice conversation. Students will also learn about the history and culture of Latinos and individuals of Spanish descent. This study of culture will provide students with a better understanding of this ethnic group, which is the largest and fastest growing minority in the United States.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Engaging in simple conversation
• Writing paragraphs
• Listening to Spanish dialogue
• Writing skills
• Reinforcement multi-media activities
• History and culture of Latinos and individuals of Spanish descent

Scope:

This course is designed for students who have successfully completed Spanish 1 or its equivalent.

Course compass:

The purpose of this course is to enable students to enhance proficiency in Spanish through further developing linguistic, communicative, and cultural knowledge of the Spanish language and culture. Vocabulary development in a wide variety of topics is an integral part of this course as students examine various types of folklore and traditions.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Listening
• Speaking
• Reading
• Writing skills
• Express feelings, ideas, and opinions in Spanish and comprehend spoken and written Spanish

Scope:

Introduction to the basic skills and information needed to complete the College Access Diploma program. The course is designed to teach you skills that will not only help you successfully complete the program, but can be used in the workforce.

Course compass:

Explore the various techniques and skills required to become successful online students. The course will cover the basic foundations of computers and the applications needed in the program, as well as real-world skills that can be used in the workplace.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Learn how to succeed in an online program
• Understand what separates an online school from a traditional school
• Employ effective study skills, time management principles
• Improve written communication skills
• Understand computer fundamentals/applications
• Become familiar with the computer
• Learn basics of the Internet and MS Office

Scope:

To learn the mathematics required to make informed decisions about money management.

Course compass:

Will help you develop knowledge and skills about problem solving, communication, reasoning, and connections as related to consumer services and personal financial management.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Purchase and sale of goods and services
• Cost of credit
• Banking services
• Investments
• Job-related issues
• Personal income and taxes
• Retirement
• Insurance
• Budgeting
• Housing rental and ownership
• Automobile rental and ownership
• Appropriate use of calculators and other technology

Scope:

To examine comprehensive health issues, to acquire knowledge of physical fitness concepts, to understand the influence of lifestyle on health and fitness, to acquire basic knowledge of nutrition, and to develop an optimal level of fitness.

Course compass:

Understanding and analyzing lifestyle in terms of health and fitness. Assessing the importance and impact of health and fitness by stressing on the cause and effect relationship.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Mental and emotional health
• Assessment of health-related fitness
• Personal health and individual wellness planning
• Family life education
• Nutritional health and physical activity
• Safety, first aid, and violence prevention
• Prevention and control of diseases
• Alcohol, tobacco, and other drug use and abuse
• Community and environmental health
• Safety practices
• Components of physical fitness
• Health problems associated with inadequate fitness levels
• Psychological values of physical fitness, including stress management
• Evaluation of physical activities in terms of fitness value
• Basic concepts of nutrition
• Consumer health, fitness, and nutrition issues

Scope:

Introduction to the most essential hardware components and the operating system of a computer.

Course compass:

This course will also introduce you to the most commonly-used applications in the workplace. You will develop basic to intermediate skills within Microsoft Word, PowerPoint, and Excel.

Course compass:

• Essential components of the computer such as the hard drive, memory, processor, ports, external storage drives, and peripherals
• The most common features of the MS Windows Operating system
• Using the Start Menu
• File Directory Structure
• Common Tools within MS Windows
• Common Interface and Toolbars
• Formatting Text features
• Inserting Images
• Creating Tables
• Using the Drawing tools
• Style and Formatting

Scope:

Reviews arithmetic and problem-solving skills and serves as an introduction to the very basics of algebra.

Course compass:

This course provides foundational mathematics skills for students who have struggled with math or who have been out of school for some time. You will study the essentials of arithmetic and sharpen your problem-solving skills in this practical mathematics course. In addition, you'll be introduced to some of the basics of algebra.

In-depth material at a glance:

• Divisibility and factoring
• Fractions
• Properties of real numbers
• Simple algebra equations
• Direct and inverse variation
• Averages (mean, median, and mode)
• Combinations and Permutations
• Basic probability

Scope:

Convey practical knowledge and to develop essential competencies required of people working in an information technology environment.

Course compass:

This course is designed to convey practical knowledge and to develop essential competencies required of people working in an information technology environment. Students develop hands-on skills required to use areas of theory which are appropriate to the contemporary business environment.

In-depth material at a glance:

• The history of computers
• Various types of software
• Microsoft Word and Excel
• Business presentations
• Databases and search engines

Scope:

Examine the chronology of art history from prehistoric times through ancient Egypt and Greece, and explore the impact of the visual arts on the history of mankind.

Course compass:

Students examine the chronology of art history from prehistoric times through ancient Egypt and Greece, and they also explore the impact of the visual arts on the history of mankind. They learn how the senses imbue art with its expressive qualities and explore the role of the visual arts — including painting, pottery, architecture, and sculpture — in the development of culture.

In-depth material at a glance:

• "Virtual" field trip to the Metropolitan Museum of Art
• Art in early civilizations
• Egyptian and Greek art
• Greek sculpture
• Roman architecture