English

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS I (GRADE 9)

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The ninth grade English Language Arts I course engages students in activities that develop skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Course curriculum is aligned to the Reading Literature, Reading Informational Text, Writing, Speaking and Listening, and Language domains of the Michigan Common Core State Standards for ninth grade. The course specifically builds content around core themes and essential questions that drive classroom instructional routines to facilitate critical thinking, college and career readiness. Students will engage in close reading, collaborative discussions, analysis of text details, analysis of craft and structure, style, tone, and word choice analysis through multiple entries into fiction, non-fiction and informational texts. The course focuses on reading of diverse texts through national and world perspectives, excerpts and full-texts of literature and novel studies. Students will engage in various modes of writing such as narrative, explanatory, informational, argumentative, and non-fiction narrative writing. Student knowledge in grammar, mechanics, and usage will also be reinforced through interaction with literature.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS I (GRADE 9) HONORS

HONORS COURSE DESCRIPTION: In addition to the English I course content, students will be required to explore a more intense and rigorous study of reading, writing, speaking, viewing and listening. Students may engage in deeper novel studies on an accelerated path and experience the traditional ninth grade course through additional literary analysis and heightened performance tasks.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS II (GRADE 10), HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In addition to the English II course, students will be required to explore a more intense and rigorous study of reading, writing, speaking, viewing and listening. Students may engage in deeper novel studies on an accelerated path and experience the traditional tenth grade course through additional literary analysis and heightened performance tasks.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS III (GRADE 11), HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In addition to the English III course, students will be required to explore a more intense and rigorous study of reading, writing, speaking, viewing and listening. Students may engage in deeper novel studies on an accelerated path and experience the traditional eleventh grade course through additional literary analysis and heightened performance tasks.

ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS IV (GRADE 12), HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In addition to the English IV course, students will be required to explore a more intense and rigorous study of reading, writing, speaking, viewing and listening. Students may engage in deeper novel studies on an accelerated path and experience the traditional eleventh grade course through additional literary analysis and heightened performance tasks.

AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION (GR 11 and 12)

COURSE DESCRIPTION: AP English Language and Composition is typically a twelfth grade English course. The course is highly aligned to the standards and structure of the Michigan Common Core State Standards. The AP English Literature and Composition course aligns to an introductory college-level literary analysis course. The course engages students in the close reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays that require students to analyze and interpret literary works.

ENGLISH TEST PREP, SAT (GR 11)

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In this one-semester course, students engage in preparation to take the SAT exam in the spring. The course includes focus on the SAT English Language Arts domains of reading, writing, speaking and listening, and additional topics in related content areas. Khan Academy’s Official SAT Practice is also integrated into the course framework.

Math

ALGEBRA I

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In Algebra I, students learn representations of functions using graphs, tables, equations, and contexts. The course focuses on solving equations and inequalities using a variety of strategies. Students solve systems of two equations and inequalities with two variables using a variety of strategies. Students analyze representations of arithmetic and geometric sequences, use exponential models to solve problems, and investigate a variety of functions including square root, cube root, absolute value, piecewise-defined, step, and simple inverse functions. The course also includes study of statistical analysis of two-variable data and distributions of one-variable data.

ALGEBRA I, HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In Algebra I Honors, students learn representations of functions using graphs, tables, equations, and contexts. The course focuses on solving equations and inequalities using a variety of strategies. Students solve systems of two equations and inequalities with two variables using a variety of strategies. Students analyze representations of arithmetic and geometric sequences, use exponential models to solve problems, and investigate a variety of functions including square root, cube root, absolute value, piecewise-defined, step, and simple inverse functions. The course also includes study of statistical analysis of two-variable data and distributions of one-variable data. The course may advance at an accelerated pace.

ALGEBRA II

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In Algebra II, students visualize, express, interpret, describe, and graph functions (and their inverses, in many cases). Students will represent functions with an equation, and vice-versa, and transform graphs, including those from the following function families: absolute value, exponential, linear, logarithmic, piecewise-defined, polynomial, quadratic, square root, and trigonometric. Students will recognize the connections among multiple representations. Students rewrite rational expressions, perform arithmetic operations on polynomials, and study the relationship between zeros and factors of polynomials.

ALGEBRA II

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In Algebra II, students visualize, express, interpret, describe, and graph functions (and their inverses, in many cases). Students will represent functions with an equation, and vice-versa, and transform graphs, including those from the following function families: absolute value, exponential, linear, logarithmic, piecewise-defined, polynomial, quadratic, square root, and trigonometric. Students will recognize the connections among multiple representations. Students rewrite rational expressions, perform arithmetic operations on polynomials, and study the relationship between zeros and factors of polynomials.

GEOMETRY

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In this course, students study geometric transformations (reflection, rotation, translation, dilation) and symmetry. Students explore relationships between figures (such as similarity and congruence) in terms of rigid motions and similarity transformations. Proofs of geometric theorems, using coordinates to prove geometric theorems, and modeling with geometry are also studied in detail. Students also study tools for analyzing and measuring right triangles, general triangles, and complex shapes. This study includes the Pythagorean Theorem, trigonometric ratios, the Law of Sines, and the Law of Cosines. Geometry also includes the study of theorems about circles, including arc lengths and areas of sectors. Topics on probability and statistics are also included.

GEOMETRY, HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: In this course, students study geometric transformations (reflection, rotation, translation, and symmetry. Students explore relationships between figures (such as similarity and congruence) in terms of rigid motions and similarity transformations. Proofs of geometric theorems, using coordinates to prove geometric theorems, and modeling with geometry are also studied in detail. Students also study tools for analyzing and measuring right triangles, general triangles, and complex shapes. This study includes the Pythagorean Theorem, trigonometric ratios, the Law of Sines, and the Law of Cosines. Geometry also includes the study of theorems about circles, including arc lengths and areas of sectors. Topics on probability and statistics are also included.

AP STATISTICS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: AP Statistics includes the exploratory analysis of data, planning a study, and probability and statistical inference. Students will describe patterns and departures from patterns, plan and conduct studies, explore random phenomena using probability and simulation, estimate population parameters, and test hypotheses. Students use computers and graphing calculators to fit mathematical models to data and also to produce graphs designed for statistical analysis. Students interpret problem situations described in writing and write reports. This course prepares students to take the Advanced Placement Statistics examination, and students are expected to register for and take the AP exam in the spring.

Science

CHEMISTRY, HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: A year-long laboratory science course, Honors Chemistry functions at an accelerated pace. In this course, students study the same content outlined in the general course description but go deeper into topics of chemical bonding, chemical structure, reactions and reactivity, matter and its changing composition, families of elements, and equation writing. The performance expectations of the course will focus on scientific practices including developing and using models, planning and conducting investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using mathematical and computational thinking, constructing explanations and engaging in argument from evidence. This course is based on the MDE state-adopted standards.

CHEMISTRY

COURSE DESCRIPTION: A year-long laboratory science course that is designed to help students understand basic chemical principles and master problem-solving skills. Students develop an understanding of concepts of chemistry with a focus on chemical bonding, chemical structure, reactions and reactivity, matter and its changing composition, families of elements and equation writing. The performance expectations of the course will focus on scientific practices including developing and using models, planning and conducting investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using mathematical and computational thinking, constructing explanations and engaging in argument from evidence. This course is based on the MDE state-adopted standards.

BIOLOGY

COURSE DESCRIPTION: A year-long laboratory science course that investigates the processes of living things, biochemical cycles, and cellular mechanisms that maintain homeostasis. Inquiry standards are taught in the context of stable internal environments, photosynthesis, respiration, mitosis and meiosis, heredity, organization of living things, and evolution. This course is based on the MDE state-adopted standards.

Social Studies

U.S. HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Through the use of inquiry under the C3 Framework, students explore the post-Civil War Industrial Age through the present day. Students gain broader awareness of major political, philosophical, and historical underpinnings of our government, which they use to analyze how ideas of freedom and equality have shaped our collective past and explore implications for the future. Within this framework, major geographic themes are infused using historical context. This course is aligned to the Michigan High School Content Expectations and is a yearlong core curriculum course.

U.S. HISTORY & GEOGRAPHY, HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The honors U.S. History & Geography Social Studies course functions at an accelerated pace. In this course students study the same content outlined in the general course description but go deeper into topics through the study of more primary sources and document-based questions.

CIVICS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Through the use of inquiry under the C3 Framework, students explore political systems and structures in order to navigate those systems effectively. They will deepen their knowledge of the United States democratic system through an understanding of constitutional principles. Students will explore current political policy issues both domestic and foreign. Students learn about civic engagement to inspire them to become engaged.

CIVICS, HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The honors Civics Social Studies course functions at an accelerated pace. In this course students study the same content outlined in the general course description but go deeper into topics through the study of more primary sources and document-based questions.

ECONOMICS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Through the use of inquiry under the C3 Framework, students explore economic principles and structures in order to navigate those systems effectively. They will deepen their knowledge of the United States economic system from a micro to macro level. Students will explore current economic policy issues both domestically and internationally. Students will also learn wise consumer habits. This course is aligned to the Michigan High School Content Expectations and is a semester long course.

ECONOMICS, HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The honors Economics Social Studies course functions at an accelerated pace. In this course students study the same content outlined in the general course description but go deeper into topics through the study of more primary sources and document-based questions.

WORLD HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Through the use of inquiry under the C3 Framework, students explore the growth and development of major religions, the rise and fall of civilizations and empires, the spread of ideas and technology, the impact of imperialism, nationalism, and independence movements, and global conflicts from about 1200 AD to the present. Students will expand their historical thinking skills by analyzing primary sources for context, corroboration, and sourcing. This course is aligned to the Michigan High School Content Expectations and is a year long core curriculum course.

WORLD HISTORY AND GEOGRAPHY, HONORS

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The honors World History and Geography Social Studies course functions at an accelerated pace. In this course students study the same content outlined in the general course description but go deeper into topics through the study of more primary sources and document-based questions.

SPANISH I

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Learners communicate minimally on very familiar topics by using simple, highly contextualized words, sentences, and questions related to themselves, home, family, friends, neighborhood, school, community, professions and environment that have been practiced and memorized. They recognize some familiar words and phrases when they hear or read them. They communicate some basic information about their everyday life using two or three words or memorized expressions. They can reproduce a modest number of words and phrases in context when writing about well-practiced, familiar topics and supply limited information on simple forms and documents. They may be understood with difficulty by sympathetic native speakers who are very accustomed to interacting with language learners. Learners show awareness of the most obvious cultural differences or culturally unacceptable practices.

SPANISH II

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Spanish II Learners communicate and exchange basic information about familiar topics related to self, home, family, friends, neighborhood, school, community, professions, and environment using phrases and simple sentences. They recombine and reformulate memorized language in the present and in the future, and report series of isolated events in the past. They interact in short, social, everyday situations by asking and answering simple questions. They write short messages, postcards, and simple notes within the context in which the language was learned. They are understood primarily by native speakers who are sympathetic and accustomed to interacting with language learners. They recognize pieces of information (familiar words, phrases, and sentences) within short and simple messages related to everyday life and understand the main topics of what is being said or read. They show awareness of the most obvious cultural differences or culturally unacceptable practices.

FRENCH I

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Learners communicate minimally on very familiar topics by using simple, highly contextualized words, sentences, and questions related to themselves, home, family, friends, neighborhood, school, community, professions, and environment that have been practiced and memorized. They recognize some familiar words and phrases when they hear or read them. They communicate some basic information about their everyday life using two or three words or memorized expressions. They can reproduce a modest number of words and phrases in context when writing about well-practiced, familiar topics and supply limited information on simple forms and documents. They may be understood with difficulty by sympathetic native speakers who are very accustomed to interacting with language learners.

French II

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Learners communicate and exchange basic information about familiar topics related to self, home, family, friends, neighborhood, school, community, professions, and environment using phrases and simple sentences. They recombine and reformulate memorized language in the present and in the future, and report series of isolated events in the past. They interact in short, social, everyday situations by asking and answering simple questions. They write short messages, postcards, and simple notes within the context in which the language was learned. They are understood primarily by native speakers who are sympathetic and accustomed to interacting with language learners. They recognize pieces of information (familiar words, phrases, and sentences) within short and simple messages related to everyday life and understand the main topics of what is being said or read. They show awareness of the most obvious cultural differences or culturally unacceptable practices.

HEALTH EDUCATION

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Topics covered within Health Education courses may vary widely, but typically include infectious diseases (STIs - HIV/AIDS, etc.), personal health (nutrition, mental health, physical health, abuse prevention, social/emotional health, body systems, and first aid) and consumer health issues. The courses may also include brief studies of environmental health, personal development, and/or community resources.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Physical Education—General courses involves content that is not grade differentiated and may apply to a range of consecutive grades. These courses provide broad content that is not organized as described elsewhere.

SWIMMING I

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Swimming 1 is a course that helps students develop skills useful or necessary in an aquatic environment. This class is a beginners' course which focuses on teaching a variety of fundamental swimming mechanics, such as kicks, strokes, and proper breathing, In addition, students will learn how to doggy paddle, tread water, and elementary backstroke.

SWIMMING II

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Swimming II is a course that helps enhance skills learned in Swimming 1. This course will cover advance swimming techniques and competitive strokes, such as freestyle, breaststroke, butterfly, and backstroke. The prerequisite for this course is Swimming I.

CYBERSECURITY

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course will introduce students to Information Technology, including foundational cybersecurity topics like computer networking fundamentals, software security, and basics of cryptography. Students are introduced to the Cyber Security field and its policies and procedures. Career related activities, projects and work-based learning experiences are included, where possible.

FOUNDATIONS OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND CYBERSECURITY I

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This initial pathway course will introduce students to Information Technology, including foundational cybersecurity topics like computer networking fundamentals, software security, and basics of cryptography. Career related activities, projects and work-based learning experiences are included, where possible.

FOUNDATIONS OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY AND CYBERSECURITY II

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course provides a deeper understanding of network concepts, security concepts, identifying security threats, cryptography, hardening systems and networks. Students will continue the exploration of their pathway through projects, work[1]based learning experiences, where possible.

DIGITAL MUSIC AND EDITING

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Students will build on previously learned editing skills by learning and becoming certified in the industry standard Adobe Premiere Pro digital video editing software. Nesting, multi-cam, adjustment layers, color correction and effects will be some of the concepts taught.

WEB DESIGN

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The basics of the language behind the web, HTML, and CSS, along with planning and visual design aspects of web design.

ART HISTORY

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Art History introduces students to significant works of art, artists, and artistic movements that have shaped the world and influenced or reflected various periods of history. These courses may emphasize the sequential evolution of art forms, techniques, symbols, and themes. Art History courses also develop an understanding of art in relation to social, cultural, political, and historical events throughout the world, while covering multiple artists, aesthetic issues, and the evolution of art.

ART PORTFOLIO

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Art Portfolio is designed to address a variety of factors and methods, including evolving technologies when preparing and refining artwork for portfolio presentation and or when deciding if and how to preserve and protect art. Students will create, select, respond to, and present work that clearly reflects newly obtained technical skills, increasing conceptual thinking and is a reflection of their personal interests. This course includes individual critiques and peer review.

BAND I

COURSE DESCRIPTION:Band courses help students develop techniques for playing brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments and their ability to perform a variety of concert band literature styles. These courses may emphasize rehearsal and performance experiences in a range of styles (e.g., concert, marching, orchestral, and modern) and also include experiences in creating and responding to music.

BAND II

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Band courses help students develop techniques for playing brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments and their ability to perform a variety of concert band literature styles. These courses may emphasize rehearsal and performance experiences in a range of styles (e.g., concert, marching, orchestral, and modern) and also include experiences in creating and responding to music.

BAND III

COURSE DESCRIPTION: Band courses help students develop techniques for playing brass, woodwind, and percussion instruments and their ability to perform a variety of concert band literature styles. These courses may emphasize rehearsal and performance experience[1] in a range of styles (e.g., concert, marching, orchestral, and modern) and also include experiences in creating and responding to music.

SPEECH 101

COURSE DESCRIPTION: This course is the first in a two-course series for high school Speech. This course engages students in learning to develop their skills in reading, writing, speaking and listening. Course curriculum is aligned to the Michigan Standards for English Language Arts (CCSS). This introductory course is designed to develop students’ oral communication and research skills. Students engage in projects and opportunities to gain poise and confidence in public speaking.

Miscellaneous

SEMINAR

COURSE DESCRIPTION: The Seminar course is an elective designed to support study skills, content area subjects, test-taking skill development, and career and college awareness and readiness.