General Electives
Academic Success As in other areas of life, success in academics results from learning and practicing positive habits. This one semester elective provides practical, hands-on guidance on developing and improving study habits and skills, regardless of a student's level of accomplishment. Academic Success includes five lessons and two course activities in a flexible structure that is adaptable to the needs and circumstances of individual students. The course can also be used for college-level developmental education.
Art Appreciation Art Appreciation is a survey of the history of Western visual arts, with a primary focus on painting. Students begin with an introduction to the basic principles of painting and learn how to critique and compare works of art. Students then explore prehistoric and early Greek and Roman art before they move on to the Middle Ages. Emphasis is placed on the Renaissance and the principles and masters that emerged in Italy and northern Europe. Students continue their art tour with the United States during the 20th century, a time of great innovation as abstract art took center stage. While Western art is the course's primary focus, students finish the course by studying artistic traditions from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas. Coverage of each artistic movement highlights historical context and introduces students to key artists who represent a variety of geographic locations. Throughout the course, students apply what they have learned about art critique to analyze and evaluate both individual artists and individual works of art. This course is built to state standards and informed by the Consortium of National Arts Education Associations standards. It encompasses a variety of skills to enable students to critique, compare, and perhaps influence their own works of art.
Art History and Appreciation This course explores the main concepts of art, expression, and creativity as it helps students answer questions such as what is art; what is creativity; and how and why people respond to art. It covers essential design principles such as emphasis, balance, and unity. Units include: Art, History, and Culture; Western and World Art Appreciation; and Art and the Modern World.
Artificial Intelligence This one-semester course is focused on the history, applications, and innovations of artificial intelligence. Students will learn about intelligence agents, problem solving using search algorithms, knowledge representation, and reasoning in artificial intelligence. Students will also learn about the basic concepts of machine learning and natural language processing (NLP). Students will also learn about expert systems, computer vision and robotics. This 12-lesson course also covers ethics and safety related to artificial intelligence. Online discussions and course activities require students to develop and apply critical thinking skills, while the included games appeal to a variety of learning styles and keep students engaged.
College and Career Preparation I High school students have many questions about the college application process, what it takes to be a successful college student, and how to begin thinking about their careers. In College and Career Preparation I, students obtain a deeper understanding of what it means to be ready for college. Students are informed about the importance of high school performance in college admissions and how to prepare for college testing. They know the types of schools and degrees they may choose to pursue after high school and gain wide exposure to the financial resources available that make college attainable. Career readiness is also a focus. Students connect the link between interests, college majors, and future careers by analyzing career clusters. Students come away from this course understanding how smart preparation and skill development in high school can lead into expansive career opportunities after they have completed their education and are ready for the working world. Students who complete College and Career Preparation I have the basic skills and foundation of knowledge to progress into College and Career Preparation II, the capstone course that provides hands-on information about the transition from high school to college and career. This course is built to the American School Counselors Association National Standards for school counseling programs.
College and Career Preparation II High school students have many questions about the college application process, what it takes to be a successful college student, and how to begin thinking about their careers. College and Career Preparation II builds on the lessons and skills in College and Career Preparation I. The course provides a step-by-step guide to choosing a college. It walks students through the process of filling out an application, including opportunities to practice, and takes an in-depth look at the various college-admission tests and assessments, as well as financial aid options. College and Career Preparation II also instructs students in interviewing techniques and provides career guidance. Students explore valuable opportunities such as job shadowing and internships when preparing for a career. Students who complete this course obtain a deeper understanding of college and career readiness through informative, interactive critical thinking and analysis activities while sharpening their time management, organization, and learning skills that they learned in College and Career Preparation I. College and Career Preparation II prepares students with the knowledge and skills to be successful in college and beyond. This course is built to the American School Counselors Association National Standards for school counseling programs.
Communication Applications Communication Applications is a one-semester course that teaches students how to become effective at verbal and nonverbal expression. In a rapidly changing world filled with constantly evolving technology, social media, and social networking, students need skills to send clear verbal and nonverbal messages and adapt those messages to multiple contexts. Students need to prepare to identify, analyze, develop, and evaluate communication skills in personal, academic, and professional interactions. Major topics in Communication Applications include intrapersonal and interpersonal interaction, informal communication and interviewing, and preparing and delivering informal, informational, and persuasive addresses. Students also engage in recognizing bias, elements of ethical communication, conflict resolution, evaluating media messages, group dynamics, and participate in peer review.
Creative Writing Creative Writing is designed to get students to pursue creative writing as a vocation or as a hobby. To that purpose, it exposes them to different genres and techniques of creative writing and the key elements (such as plot and characterization in fiction) in each genre. Great creative writing doesn't come merely by reading about the craft—one also needs ideas; a process for planning, drafting and revising; and the opportunity to experiment with different forms and genres. The lessons in this course familiarize students with the basic structure and elements of different types or genres of writing.
Creative Writing Creative Writing is an English elective course that focuses on the exploration of short fiction and poetry, culminating in a written portfolio that includes one revised short story and three to five polished poems. Students draft, revise, and polish fiction and poetry through writing exercises, developing familiarity with literary terms and facility with the writing process as they study elements of creative writing. Elements of fiction writing explored in this course include attention to specific detail, observation, character development, setting, plot, and point of view. In the poetry units, students learn about the use of sensory details and imagery, figurative language, and sound devices including rhyme, rhythm, and alliteration. They also explore poetic forms ranging from found poems and slam poetry to traditional sonnets and villanelles. In addition to applying literary craft elements in guided creative writing exercises, students engage in critical reading activities designed to emphasize the writing craft of a diverse group of authors. Students study short stories by authors such as Bharati Mukherjee and Edgar Allan Poe, learning how to create believable characters and develop setting and plot. Likewise, students read poetry by canonical greats such as W. B. Yeats and Emily Dickinson as well as contemporary writers such as Pablo Neruda, Sherman Alexie, and Alice Notley. Studying the writing technique of a range of authors provides students with models and inspiration as they develop their own voices and refine their understanding of the literary craft. By taking the Creative Writing course, students find new approaches to reading and writing that can affect them on a personal level, as the skills they gain in each lesson directly benefit their own creative goals. Students who are already actively engaged writers and readers learn additional tools and insight into the craft of writing to help them further hone their skills and encourage their creative as well as academic growth. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards.
Environmental Science A/B Environmental Science is designed to introduce students to the main concepts of environmental science. It will help students gain knowledge of the natural processes that occur in nature and understand their importance and relevance. Students will also gain awareness of some of the environmental issues and challenges we face in the world today, such as land use and management, wildlife conservation, resource and waste management, and the different kinds of pollution. Finally, students will learn about energy sources and production, sustainable development, and environmental policies.
Gothic Literature Gothic Literature is a one semester course intended to familiarize students with the different conventions, themes, and elements of Gothic literature through the analysis of representative literary works. Students will discuss classics such as Mary Shelley’s novel Frankenstein, Ann Radcliffe’s novel, A Sicilian Romance, Nathaniel Hawthorne’s novel, The Scarlet Letter, Robert Louis Stevenson’s Gothic novella, The Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, and Bram Stoker’s Dracula. Students will also analyze Edgar Allan Poe’s Gothic short stories, Robert Browning’s Gothic poems, and Emily Dickinson’s poems about death, mortality, and spirituality. Finally, students will get a glimpse of Matthew Lewis and Percy Bysshe Shelley’s Gothic dramas; learn about Gothic parodies and Gothic subgenres; and discuss contemporary Gothic literature.
Introduction to Anthropology Introduction to Anthropology is a one-semester course that introduces students to the field of anthropology. Students will explore the evolution of anthropology as a distinct discipline; learn about anthropological terms, concepts and theories; and discuss the evolution of humans and human society and culture. Students will also learn about social institutions, such as marriage, economy, religion, and polity. The target audience for this course is high school students.
Introduction to Archaeology Introduction to Archaeology is a one-semester course that introduces students to the work and techniques involved in archaeology, and the career prospects of an archaeologist. This course covers subject areas such as the history of modern archaeology; discoveries in archaeology; careers in archaeology; research techniques; evidence; site excavation; and many more.
Introduction to Philosophy Introduction to Philosophy provides students an introduction to the field of philosophy and its great, timeless questions. This one-semester course is intended as a practical guide to help students understand the subject matter of philosophy, its main branches, and the major ideas and issues discussed in each branch. Students will explore the origin and evolution of philosophy as a discipline and learn about the times, lives, and intellectual contributions of essential philosophers.
Introduction to Visual Arts Introduction to Visual Arts is designed to enable all students at the high school level to familiarize themselves with different types of visual arts. Students will trace the history of art, describe various art forms, and identify the elements of art. After examining the principles of design, students will delve into the parameters involved in evaluating and critiquing art.
Introduction to World Religions Introduction to World Religions is a one-semester course that familiarizes students with the origins, history, beliefs, and practices of various prominent world religions, primal religions, and contemporary religious movements. The target audience for this course is high school students. This course covers primal religious traditions, Hinduism, Buddhism, Jainism, Sikhism, Zoroastrianism, Judaism, Christianity, Islam, Confucianism, Taoism, and Shinto and contemporary religious movements.
Music Appreciation In a time of an increasing emphasis on STEM courses and skills, it remains essential to provide your students with opportunities to explore the arts from both an informational and career-oriented perspective. In Music Appreciation, students will explore the history and evolution of music, learn the elements of music and musical notations, and the contributions of popular music artists and composers. A variety of lessons, activities, and discussions will help to develop an awareness and appreciation of music that will develop not only critical thinking skills, but life enriching skills as well.
Music Appreciation Music Appreciation introduces students to the history, theory, and genres of music, from the most ancient surviving examples to the most contemporary in the world at large. The course is offered in a two-semester format. The first semester covers primitive musical forms and classical music. The second semester presents rich modern traditions, including American jazz, gospel, folk, soul, blues, Latin rhythms, rock and roll, and hip hop. The course explores the interface of music and social movements and examines how global society and the internet bring musical forms from around the world together in new ways.
Mythology and Folklore Mythology and Folklore is a one-semester course that introduces students to myths, legends, and folklore from around the world. In this course, students will describe myths related to the creation of the world, the natural elements, and the destruction of the world. Students will identify the main characters of various dynastic dramas, love myths, and epic legends and describe their journeys. Finally, students will trace the evolution of folklore and describe folktales from around the world.
Personal Communication Personal Communication is a one-semester course that teaches students how to become effective at verbal and nonverbal expression. In a rapidly changing world filled with constantly evolving technology, social media, and social networking, students need skills to send clear verbal and nonverbal messages and adapt those messages to multiple contexts. Students need to prepare to identify, analyze, develop, and evaluate communication skills in personal, academic, and professional interactions. Major topics in Personal Communication include intrapersonal and interpersonal interaction, informal communication and interviewing, and the preparation and delivery of informal, informational, and persuasive addresses. Students also engage in recognizing bias, resolving conflicts, and evaluating media messages; gain an understanding of elements of ethical communication and group dynamics; and participate in peer review.
Psychology Psychology provides a solid overview of the field's major domains: methods, biopsychology, cognitive and developmental psychology, and variations in individual and group behavior. By focusing on significant scientific research and on the questions that are most important to psychologists, students see psychology as an evolving science. Each topic clusters around challenge questions, such as “What is happiness?” Students answer these questions before, during, and after they interact with direct instruction. This course is built to state standards and informed by the American Psychological Association's National Standards for High School Psychology Curricula. The teaching methods draw from the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) teaching standards.
Sociology Sociology examines why people think and behave as they do in relationships, groups, institutions, and societies. Major course topics include individual and group identity, social structures and institutions, social change, social stratification, social dynamics in recent and current events, the effects of social change on individuals, and the research methods used by social scientists. In online discussions and polls, students reflect critically on their own experiences and ideas, as well as on the ideas of sociologists. Interactive multimedia activities include personal and historical accounts to which students can respond, using methods of inquiry from sociology. Written assignments provide opportunities to practice and develop skills in thinking and communicating about human relationships, individual and group identity, and all other major course topics. This course is built to state standards and the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Expectations of Excellence: Curriculum Standards for Social Studies.
Structure of Writing This semester-long course focuses on building good sentences. Students will learn how to put words, phrases, and clauses together and how to punctuate correctly. They will start using sentences in short compositions. As an extra bonus, students will add some new words to their vocabulary, and they will practice spelling difficult words. Near the end of the course, students are to submit a book report. Early in the course, encourage students to start looking for the books they want to read for the book report. They might also preview the introduction to that lesson so they know what will be expected.
Women's Studies Women’s Studies is a one semester course that introduces students to women’s studies, gender studies, and gender roles. The course traces the history of feminism, analyzes feminist theories, and examines intersectionality. Students will learn about social and political movements for the rights of women and other vulnerable groups. Students will also learn about social and family structures and socialization, which include identifying prejudices, biases, and stereotypes that exist in society and how the media perpetuates some stereotypes about gender roles and identities. The course also covers different forms of oppression, ways to prevent oppression, and methods to help and empower victims. Students will learn about international activism for gender equality, legal rights, and the challenges in achieving equality for all citizens from every section of society. The course combines a variety of content types, including lessons, activities, and discussions to engage learners as they discover the significance of women’s studies.
Career and Technical Education
Introduction to Fashion Design Introduction to Fashion Design focuses on the practical aspects of career preparation in the fashion design industry. The lessons in the course provide students with both breadth and depth, as they explore the full gamut of relevant topics in fashion design. This course provides students insight on the history of fashion and its place in the modern world and helps students understand terms and concepts related to fashion. Students explore fashion forecasting, predicting consumer demand, pricing, and other activities involved in the fashion process from the inspiration for a garment to creating sketches until the final product takes shape.
Theater, Cinema, and Film Production Theater, Cinema, and Film Production is a one-semester course that explores what goes into the making of a theater and film production. The course’s lessons focus on the pre production, production, and post-production stages of theater and film productions. Students will be introduced to theater and film, and their different genres and sub-genres. They will also learn about roles and responsibilities of the cast and crew, including the director, actors, screenplay writers, set designers, wardrobe stylists and costume designers, and makeup artists. The course also covers technical aspects, such as lighting and sound. Students will also learn about the influence of the audience on theater, cinema, and film production. The course combines a variety of content types, including lessons, activities, and discussions to keep students engaged as they discover the world of theater, cinema, and film production.
Introduction to Military Careers Introduction to Military Careers is a one-semester course that introduces the US military and describes each of its branches, which include the National Guard, Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Coast Guard, and Air Force. Students will learn about the relationship of the military reserve to the branches of the military. The course covers noncombat careers in the military, such as military intelligence, information technology, health care, legal services, logistics, aviation, and transportation, and other specialized careers. This course also covers enlistment and fitness requirements for military careers and personal traits that are essential for success in the military. The lessons in the course provide students with both breadth and depth, as they learn about the US Military. Online discussions and course activities require students to develop and apply critical thinking skills while appealing to a variety of learning styles and keep students engaged.
Personal Finance Personal Finance is a one semester course that teaches financial literacy skills to help students plan and achieve career and personal goals. This course focuses on consumer economics, financial services, and personal financial management. Students learn how to budget, spend, invest, and make every day financial decisions. The course also provides an exploration of careers in personal finance and consumer services.
Psychology A/B Psychology gives your students an overview of the history of psychology while also giving them the resources to explore career opportunities in the field. Students will learn how psychologists develop and validate theories and will examine how hereditary, social, and cultural factors help form an individual’s behavior and attitudes. Students will also evaluate the effectiveness of different types of psychological counseling and therapy and describe key statistical concepts used in psychological research and testing. Finally, students will identify and explore career opportunities in psychology.
Sociology In the Sociology course, students will explore the evolution of sociology as a distinct discipline while learning about sociological concepts and processes. They will learn how the individual relates to and impacts society. Students will also learn about the influence of culture, social structure, socialization, and social change on themselves and others. The course combines a variety of content types, including lessons, activities, and discussions to engage learners as the discover sociology as a subject and as a career.
Introduction to Astronomy Introduction to Astronomy is a one-semester course that is designed to enable students to learn the basics of astronomy. The course begins with coverage of the history of astronomy from ancient times to modern times. Student then learn to identify the movements of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars across the sky and to describe the formation of the solar system and the role of the Sun and Moon in the solar system. The course goes on to cover the causes of seasons on Earth and why Earth can sustain life. The course culminates in a study of the stars, galaxies, and the Milky Way, various theories of cosmology, and advantages and disadvantages of space exploration. The target audience for this course is high school students.
Revolutionary Ideas in Science Revolutionary Ideas in Science is a one-semester course with lessons that cover the discoveries and inventions in science from pre-historic to present times. This course covers topics such as: prehistoric science, technology, ancient and medieval science, the scientific revolution, thermodynamics and electricity, and many more.
Introduction to Marine Biology Introduction to Marine Biology is designed to introduce students to oceanic features and processes, ocean habitats and ecosystems, life forms in the ocean, and types of interactions in the ocean. Students will learn about the formation and characteristic features of the oceans. They will learn about the scientific method and explore careers available in marine biology. The course then covers the characteristic features of different taxonomic groups, habitats, life forms, and ecosystems that exist in the oceans and different adaptations marine creatures possess to survive in the ocean. Students will learn about succession and the flow of energy in marine ecosystems, as well as the resources that the oceans provide and the threats that the oceans face from human activities.
Introduction to Veterinary Science Introduction to Veterinary Science is designed to introduce students at the high school level to the fundamentals of veterinary science. The students will explore the history of veterinary science and the skills and requirements for a successful career in the veterinary industry. They will also explore the anatomy and physiology of animals, learn how to evaluate animal health, and determine effective treatments for infectious and noninfectious diseases in animals. Additionally, they will learn about zoonotic diseases, and the impact of toxins and poisons on animal health.
Introduction to Social Media Introduction to Social Media is a one-semester course intended to familiarize students with the evolution and rapid growth of social media. The course explores different types of social media platforms, their features, and their benefits and risks. Students will learn about wikis and crowdsourcing and how social media is used for marketing. The course also covers online security and privacy risks, safety guidelines, and what it means to be a good digital citizen.
Introduction to Forensic Science Introduction to Forensic Science is designed to introduce students to the importance and limitations of forensic science and explore different career options in this field. They also learn to process a crime scene, collect and preserve evidence, and analyze biological evidence such as fingerprints, blood spatter, and DNA samples. Moreover, they learn to determine the time and cause of death in homicides and analyze ballistic evidence and human remains in a crime scene. Finally, they learn about forensic investigative methods related to arson, computer crimes, financial crimes, frauds, and forgeries.
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