Course Descriptions
English
English I (9)
Literature selections (short stories, biographies, autobiographies) and film selections that have close connections to the students' lives will serve as a springboard for meaningful writing and language activities. Grammar, mechanics, and usage will all be emphasized through both direct teaching and writing activities. Students will also do a “Book Talk” on an independent reading book and will work with weekly, cumulative vocabulary words. Second quarter features a multi-cultural unit featuring Harper Lee’s To Kill a Mockingbird. In addition to studying the literature in its historical context, the students will also examine their own thoughts and feelings regarding prejudice and discrimination and reflect upon what they can do to lessen these injustices. We will also continue our grammar studies during this time. The third quarter of English I highlights Shakespeare’s The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet., followed by Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Huck Finn along with a historical research project. Time will also be given to grammar instruction and practice. The quarter will continue use of year-long vocabulary lessons emphasizing word contexts as the means of learning word meanings. After wrapping up The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, the fourth quarter will conclude with an in-depth literary study and analysis of Homer’s The Odyssey.
English II (10)
Sophomore English is designed to help students improve their writing skills through a variety of writing assignments that focus on the 6+1 Writing Traits. Grammar, usage, vocabulary exercises will be added to enhance students’ language arts skills. Sophomores take a standardized writing assessment in February so the 5-paragraph persuasive essay will be reviewed; however, the overall goal of writing at the sophomore level will be to increase students’ understanding of complex sentence structures, word use, and individual style. In literature, students will study poetry for figurative language technique and short stories for literary analysis (plot, character, setting, theme, etc.) Students will also read the novel Fahrenheit 451 and the plays Antigone and Julius Caesar. Appreciation for world literature is the theme of the sophomore year so students will be reading an eclectic mixture of genres from different places and periods in history.
English III (11)
American Literature is a course that puts emphasis into two main areas: 1) The history of literature (both fiction and non-fiction) in America and the progress our country has made politically and socially since its earliest inceptions; and 2) The fine-tuning of composition and grammar skills necessary for effective writing, specifically in the areas of research writing, persuasive writing, and literary analysis. Juniors take a standardized test, the Dakota-STEP, in April and prepare for the ACT; therefore, they also work at improving their content reading and test-taking skills.
English IV (12)
English IV curriculum focuses on a survey of British literature, including the study of poetry, drama, and novels dating from early English literature. Emphasis will be placed on the literary periods as they appear in English literature and the historical backgrounds accompanying them. The first unit is a voyage of discovery for students as they venture into the world of Ancient England and British literature. We begin by examining the early cultural and historical events surrounding the Celts, Saxons, Danes and various invaders who changed the ancestry and language of modern day Great Britain. Historically, we separate myth from fact as we trace the influence of Arthur of Wales and Beowulf of Sweden. Through out the year, several compositions and short research papers (5-10 pages) will be written based on the themes of the literature taught. An advanced grammar unit will consist of using sound grammatical applications on professional essays, newspaper and magazine articles. Additionally, all seniors will complete an ACT Prep review and publish a scholarship/career portfolio, which will include a resume, goals essay, personal data sheet, and scholarship form applicable to over 40 scholarships. Unit goals include developing self-directed learners who commit, practice, understand, and exhibit investigative, independent, and creative thinking, who relate English history past, present, and future, who apply classical literary themes to practical applications in our world, who interrelate grammatical, composition, and researching skills with analysis of the literature, and who apply technology to enhance research and presentation skills.
Speech (10)
Objectives: Once students leave high school they will enter a society that stresses the need for good communication skills. Every relationship, both personally and professionally, requires effective communication skills. The speech semester is designed to help students gain confidence in their abilities as communicators in one-to-one situations, groups and as public speakers. Speech is a full language arts program. Students are involved in numerous activities to enhance their speaking, writing, listening, reading, and critical thinking—both verbally and nonverbally. The goal for speech students is to take the strengths they already have in these areas and develop them with greater competence in order to perform successfully in daily life.
Math
Algebra I (9)
This course includes the study of basic operations and graphing of the real numbers system and its subsets, properties of real numbers, polynomials, factoring, rational expressions, solving and graphing equations and inequalities, functions and relations in the coordinate plane, and systems of linear equations. Deductive reasoning will be used extensively. The order of operations, equations, and inequalities will be studied in detail throughout the course with constant emphasis on their application to applied problems.
Algebra I Double Instruction (9-10) (Even years only)
This class provides the same curriculum and course work as Algebra I. The setting is more structured with work time built into the class and more hands-on applications. Students must have a teacher referral to qualify for this class.
Geometry (10)
The emphasis in this course is placed on helping the students understand and develop mathematical maturity in the logical reasoning process. It includes the study of points, lines, planes, angles, triangles, and their properties, proficiency in developing proofs of congruence, parallel and perpendicular lines, areas of circles and polygons, initial concepts of solid geometry, coordinate geometry, transformational geometry, simple geometric constructions and supplemented with topics in trigonometry. Prerequisite: Algebra I.
Advanced Algebra (11)
Topics in this class include the study of linear and quadratic functions, systems of equations, inequalities, and their graphs, rational algebraic expressions, radicals, irrational and complex numbers, and an introduction of trigonometry. Students will also work with basic probability problems. Analytical skills involving Algebra will be extensively developed and refined. Upon completion, each of the major topics will be used in detail to solve applied problems. Graphing calculators will be used to explore and enhance the material. Prerequisite: Algebra and Geometry (can be taken concurrently with Geometry with both instructors’ approval)
Advanced Algebra Double Instruction (10-11) (Odd years only)
This class provides the same curriculum and course work as Advanced Algebra. The setting is more structured with work time built into the class and more hands-on applications. Students must have a teacher referral to qualify for this class.
Pre-Calculus (12)
This course is designed for the student who has a thorough knowledge of algebra, geometry, and related topics. This course includes a study of linear, quadratic, and polynomial functions, inequalities, exponents and logarithms, analytic geometry, probability and statistics, curve fitting and modeling, and a basic introduction of calculus. This course also covers topics of trigonometric functions including such aspects as graphs of right triangles, identities, Law of Sines, Law of Cosines, applications, inverse trigonometric functions and multiple angler formulas. Graphing calculators will be used regularly to investigate topics. It is recommended that a student enroll in physics and pre-calculus concurrently. Prerequisite: Geometry and Advanced Algebra.
Science
Physical Science (9)
This course provides the opportunity to discover the concepts of chemistry and physics. The study of chemistry for this course includes the physical and chemical properties of matter, classes of matter, atoms, the periodic table properties, bonding, chemical reactions, and various chemical compounds. The study of physics for this course includes forces, machines, energy, heat, electricity, magnetism, sound, and light. A strong emphasis on laboratory experiences and real world application is present in each unit.
Biology (10)
This course provides the opportunity to discover the concepts of life. The study of biology includes cells, transport, genetics, theories of the origins of life, bacteria, viruses, fungi, plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. The study of animals will also include dissections. Students are expected to complete various types of assignments, projects, and labs throughout the year. A strong emphasis on laboratory experiences and real world application is present in each unit. Prerequisite: Physical Science.
Advanced Biology (11 or 12)
This course begins with one quarter of Ecology. Ecology is the study of the relationships between organisms and their environments. This study includes how organisms affect one another and how the influences of humankind can impact the “balance-of-nature.” Second, third, and fourth quarters include the study of human anatomy and physiology. We will study each of the body systems in depth. Students are expected to participate and complete projects, dissections, and laboratory activities, besides regular classroom/text work. A field trip to the SDSU anatomy lab is also included with the course with the choice to participate. Students have found this course especially useful for nursing, medical technology, pharmacy, dental, and pre-med courses. Prerequisite: Physical Science and Biology.
Chemistry (11 or 12)
Chemistry is the study of matter, its structure, and its interactions. Topics include metric measurements and conversions, electron configuration, chemical bonding, writing and naming chemical formulas, writing and balancing chemical equations, stoichiometry, molarity, and acid-base reactions. Students are expected to complete various types of assignments and projects. Throughout the course, there are a variety of labs where students are expected to solve problems using various chemicals. Chemistry involves several units using mathematical problem solving, therefore, it is recommended that students complete either algebra II or geometry or both before studying chemistry. Prerequisite: Physical Science and Biology.
Physics (12)
Physics is a study of invisible forces and energy such as gravity, heat, electricity and magnetism. Physics deals with the way nature behaves, with what are called natural laws. Many of the technological advances of civilization have resulted from understanding these laws. Studying physics makes it possible to help advance both science and technology. Physics requires advanced math skills using physical constants, conversion factors and mathematical equations to analyze data from lab exercises. Prerequisite courses for taking physics include both algebra II and geometry. Physics and pre-calculus are courses that compliment one another and students are encouraged to take them simultaneously. Physics is good preparation for anyone going into engineering or any of the sciences.
This course provides real world application for all units, laboratory experience, and science process skills (observing, classifying, measuring, communicating, predicting, inferring) at a less rigorous pace than the regular instruction classes. Students are expected to complete projects, presentations, laboratory write-ups, and dissections as well as regular coursework. Concepts covered in this class are cells, transport, genetics, theories of the origins of life, bacteria, viruses, fungi, plants, invertebrates, and vertebrates. The study of animals will also include dissections. Students must obtain teacher recommendation to enroll in Science Applications. Not intended for college-bound students.
This course provides real world application for all units, laboratory experience, and science process skills (observing, classifying, measuring, communicating, predicting, inferring) at a less rigorous pace than the regular instruction classes. Students are expected to complete projects, presentations, laboratory write-ups, as well as regular coursework. Topics covered in this class are measurement, history and structure of the atom, writing chemical formulas, balancing and classifying chemical equations, acid and base interactions, motion, Newton’s Laws, electricity, heat, and Earth Space Science. Students must obtain teacher recommendation to enroll in Science Applications. Not intended for college-bound students.
COMPUTER
Computer Studies (9)
Computer Studies is a semester course required during the freshman year. Students will use Windows Vista to:
· learn the fundamentals of Windows Vista
· see practical examples of the computer as a useful tool
· learn the proper procedures to create documents, worksheets, databases, and presentations suitable for coursework, professional purposes and personal use
· become more productive when using the computer
The students will complete various projects using Microsoft Word, Microsoft Excel , Microsoft PowerPoint.
Computer Applications (10, 11 or 12)
This course is designed to help you learn the latest technology. There is an abundance of information to be presented. You will work on the newest programs and software available. This class will prepare you to feel at ease running different programs. This course includes advanced projects using Publisher, Photoshop, and includes Dreamweaver, designing a personal web page. Students will also be using any of the available programs and software available to create presentations, videos, and much more. This course is designed as a year-long course, but can be taken first or second semester. Prerequisite: Computer Studies.
SOCIAL STUDIES
World History (9)
This semester course is an overview of global events and their effects on our world. The class will focus on the following units: Early Civilizations, Greek and Roman Civilizations, The Middle Ages, The Renaissance, The Reformation, Colonial Empires, Political Revolutions in Europe and Russia, and The Rise of Nationalism, and Asian and African history. Emphasis will also be placed on current affairs and their relation to previous events and movements in World History.
Geography (10)
In an effort to comprehend the extreme diversity and complexity of the problems and possibilities that confront the citizens of the 21st Century, we have designed a technology-enhanced class to accommodate those issues. Students need to be aware of the world around them, and they must have the ability to think, analyze, and communicate in that world. This course uses the five themes of Geography.
Native American Studies (10, 11 or 12)
What was here before the mid 1800’s? Who were the people that greeted the pioneers? If you have watched many western movies, they were savages with no personal or social values. This class will discover who the early inhabitants of North America were and where they came from. Additionally, we will discover who their leaders and heroes were and more about the Native Americans of the Upper Midwest. This class will use a wide variety of sources to discover the truth. From readings from native authors, to invited speaker and primary source documents, we will be able to find, and hopefully understand, the real Native Americans of our region.
This is a full year, social studies elective, course about life! It offers an in-depth study of people and the many relationships they will encounter in a lifetime. Some of the areas covered include: self discovery; communication skills; feelings in relationships; helping skills; dating and sexuality; engagement and marriage; money management; stress management and depression; teen problems and pressures and decision making; family stages, problems and patterns of interaction; family types; family functions; family roles and dual roles; family crisis and prevention; parenthood readiness and responsibilities and family planning; pregnancy and prenatal care and development; childbirth; child care, guidance, and development. All issues will be studied from both the male and female perspective. Class activities will also include marriage and parenting simulations.
US History (11)
This course is a chronological study of people, places, and events that make up United States History from the American movement west to the present. The class will use various means to accomplish the "task". To see what US History is and what you need to know, to do, to be like, we will use a variety of methods - from direct teaching to small group research projects. The class will use the various items of technology available and all the resources that Sioux Valley has provided us. The emphasis will be on skills: reading, comprehension skills, thinking skills, research, writing and study skills.
Contemporary Issues (11 or 12)
As our world gets smaller and our nation is drawn closer together through technology, we must be able to analyze and understand the conflicts and problems that arise: problems, internal and external; problems within various populations; and problems throughout the world. We need to see and understand all sides of the situations. We need to be able to understand the reasoning for each side’s thinking, and why they respond as they do. Additionally, we need to be able to arrive at a variety of potential solutions to these situations that arise. This course will focus on current events and will include research, various "pieces" of technology, writing, and speaking skills.
Government (12)
This course is designed to give students knowledge of how the United States Government, South Dakota State Government and local governments function. Units that will be studied include: Foundations of the American Governmental System; Citizenship and Civil Rights; Politics of American Democracy; Congress; The Presidency; The Judicial System; State and Local Government and Current Events. The emphasis is on skills: reading and writing skills, thinking skills and citizenship skills.
personal wellness
Personal Finance (12)
After completing this semester course, students will be able to: 1.) identify various forms of income and analyze factors that affect income; 2.) explain the process involved in managing your personal finances; 3.) use a rational decision-making process as it applies to informed decisions on spending and credit; 4.) evaluate savings and investments options to meet short- and long-term goals.
Wellness (12) * CTE Course
This is a required, in-depth, semester course on wellness, how to evaluate your own lifestyle, and plan to live a healthy lifestyle. Concepts to be covered include mental and emotional health, including depression and stress management; physical health, including disease and accident prevention; diet guidelines and analysis; current nutritional issues; special dietary needs; weight management, including weight problems and control and eating disorders; the environment and drug dependencies; social relationships and wellness; and positive lifestyles. This course will include a physical workout component, classroom, laboratory, and computer work. This is an excellent preparatory course for those interested in careers in health, medicine, and working with people and for those who simply want to live a healthy, productive life.
Fine Arts
Art I (9-12)
This course will give a better understanding of the elements of art; shape, line, texture, value and color through the use of many mediums. Mediums will include: pencil, ink pen, markers, acrylic and watercolor paints, clay, chalks and oil pastels. Pencil shading, color theory and other art principles will be taught along with experiences in collage, three-dimensional sculpture and perspective drawing. Student work will be exhibited. Students are responsible for basic art supplies.
Art II (10-12)
This course is for students who want to advance their art ability and creative thinking. Basic air brushing and oil painting will be introduced. In addition, advanced work in pencil, clay, and resist methods will be explored. The study of surreal and abstract art will provide the basis for various painting projects. Student work will be exhibited. Students will be responsible for basic art supplies. Prerequisite: Art I
Art III & IV (11 or 12)
One main purpose of this class is to provide time and working space for the advanced, serious art student. Class projects will include a wide range of advanced activities such as batik, repousse, and mixed media. Other projects and mediums will include oil and watercolor painting; clay, potter’s wheel and advanced pottery surface treatment; and a study of various artistic styles. Airbrush, pencil, pen and ink and other mediums will be available for students to use. Responsibility to work on individual projects is essential since there will be time for students to work in certain areas he/she is the most interested in. Student work will be exhibited. Students will be responsible for basic art supplies. Prerequisite: Art I & II. Art IV Prerequisite: Art I, Art II, Art III and instructor consent
Chorus (9-12)
The high school choir is a co-curricular class for which students receive credit as part of their grade point average. Choir, as a daily class, strives to help students become musically more literate, more proficient as singers and technicians, and to pursue the development of positive self-esteem through individual and group learning activities and performances. Criteria for grading are attendance and behavior, written exams, vocal evaluations, and concert attendance. Two lessons per quarter are mandatory. Concerts and performances are mandatory. When students miss because of a valid reason, given in advance, a make-up assignment will be given at the discretion of the director. Because this class is a performing group, students must maintain and meet the minimum requirements during the first semester to be eligible for the second semester class. Students who wish to letter must maintain a "B" average and also participate in small ensemble/solo and large group contests receiving a I or II rating. Students must audition prior to the fall. Choir robes will be worn for concert dress as well as men and women will need black shoes, a white long sleeve shirt. Men need black dress pants a tie and black socks. Women must have black pants or a black knee length or longer skirt. Everyone is expected to wear concert dress unless informed otherwise. All six of the student outcomes are addressed through class goals and activities.
Concert Band (9-12)
This class is a full year for which you will receive credit toward graduation. Throughout the year, this course will concentrate on the rehearsing, studying and performing of music using a variety of styles and composers. Performances will include concerts throughout the year, pep band during sporting events, and marching for competitions and parades. Emphasis will be placed upon the individual responsibility of the student in several aspects of the total program, i.e. proper attitude displayed during rehearsals and performances, participation in class and at performances and individual progress throughout the year.
Exploring Music (9-12)
Fulfill your fine arts' credit with this interactive year-long class. This will be a hands-on exploration of world music and diverse styles/periods of music.
Women’s Chorus (9-12)
Women’s Ensemble is a unique co-curricular class for women who wish to receive credit as part of their grade point average. Grading criteria for this singing ensemble are attendance and behavior, written exams, vocal evaluations, and concert attendance. Two lessons per quarter are required. Concerts and performances are mandatory. When students miss because of a valid reason given in advance, a make-up assignment will be given at the discretion of the director. Concert dress will be black pants or knee length or longer skirt and a black long sleeve shirt. Everyone is expected to wear concert dress unless informed otherwise. All six of the student outcomes are addressed through class goals and activities. Students who wish to letter must maintain a "B" average and also participate in small ensemble/solo and large group contests receiving a I or II rating. Students must audition prior to the fall.
foreign language
Spanish I (9-12)
Used widely for work and college prep, Spanish is becoming a necessity for today’s well prepared student. Practice basic conversation skills of listening and speaking in everyday situations and for special occasions. Students will progress to reading and writing whole Spanish language. Learn about life and culture in the Spanish speaking places of the world with authentic materials and WebQuests. (Attend SDSU Festival of Culture)
Improve your fluency in listening and speaking and increase your proficiency in reading and writing. Acquire more advanced language structure and specific vocabulary. Work with authentic materials, streaming videos and WebQuests as you continue to learn about everyday life and culture. This is a minimum requirement for general Spanish placement at the college level. (Attend SDSU Festival of Culture, visit Guadalajara’s Restaurant, travel to Concordia Language Villages-as available.)
Spanish III (11 or 12)
This class is for students who plan to take Spanish at the college level as a general requirement, as a major or as part of a double major. Continue to increase your knowledge and improve you skills in the language. Emphasis is placed on preparing for a high level of success in college and activities are reality based. (Attend SDSU Festival of Culture, visit Guadalajara’s Restaurant, travel to Concordia Language Villages-as available.)
electives
Accounting I (10, 11 or 12)
Accounting I is an introductory course to formal accounting as a vocation. Students will learn the principles of keeping records for single ownership, partnership and corporate businesses. Some personal record keeping, such as managing your personal checking account will be included. The course will be enhanced through the use of Automated Accounting 8.0 using computers. The students will learn how to process data electronically. This course is also valuable if you pursue a computer information systems career. (Freshmen or sophomores interested must get approval from the instructor.)
Accounting II (11 or 12)
Accounting II is an advanced accounting course that expands on topics introduced in Accounting I while adding new topics about management accounting, cost accounting, not-for-profit accounting, and financial analysis. Accounting concepts are introduced using modern businesses. The course will be enhanced through the use of Automated Accounting 8.0 using computers. The students will learn how to process data electronically. The students will use a minimum of two simulations to enhance their knowledge of accounting concepts covered throughout the course. Prerequisite: Accounting I. Must have teacher approval prior to registration.
Advanced Reading (10, 11 or 12) (Offered even years)
Advanced Reading is a reader-response literature course. It includes a variety of different genres of literature from authors both inside and outside the United States. Students in this class should read literature willingly and enthusiastically. Although the literary experience will involve learning about history, genre, technique, and other elements, students must first be ready to make the connections between the literature that they read and its impact upon their lives. Students will be required to keep journals, participate in class discussion, write essay responses and short interpretive papers and complete projects.
Ag I - Natural Resources/Horticulture (9-12) * CTE Course
Ag I is a year long course focusing on two primary topics: natural resources and horticulture. Students will have an opportunity to work both in lab and classroom settings. The class will discuss a wide variety of topics dealing with natural resources and the impact they have on the United States. Units of study when talking about natural resources will include: soil and water management, forestry, fish and wildlife. When discussing horticulture we will spend time studying plant growth, plant propagation, greenhouse management, and landscape design.
Ag II - Business/Manufacturing (10, 11 or 12) * CTE Course
Ag II is a year long course focusing on business management and manufacturing. The first semester is designed to expose students to various facets of business. The course will provide students with an understanding of job seeking skills, record keeping, financial analysis, and ag law. The second semester is primarily spent in the shop where students will be learning the skills that are required in careers dealing with welding. Students will learn to gas weld, arc weld, and wire weld along with learn about plasma cutting operations.
Animal Science (9-12) * CTE Course
This course will introduce students to livestock industry in the first semester. The areas covered will include: animal nutrition, animal feeding and rations, beef breeds, beef selection, beef reproduction, and beef herd management. The second semester will introduce students to swine, sheep, dairy, and horse industries. The course will discuss breeds, feeding, selection, diseases, parasites, and management decisions.
The major objective of this course is to give the students the opportunity to learn the basic skills used in the building industry. The information that is given to each student may be used in every day life or can be applied if the students want to further their careers by working in the industry or by enrolling in a trade school. The student is given both theory and practical laboratory experience.
Family and Consumer Sciences (FACS) (9-12) *CTE Course
Full year comprehensive course which will include study in the areas of: foods and nutrition, child development, resource management and consumerism and entrepreneurship. FCCLA Illustrated Talks and projects will be an important part of the course work. Some of the major concepts to be covered will include developing leadership skills through FCCLA; nutrition and diet analysis; planning and preparing quick and nutritious meals; child development, care and guidance; entrepreneurship; and consumer skills and resource management. Activities and projects will include a hands-on experience with children; foods labs; and an opportunity to plan and run a small entrepreneurial business.
Greek Mythology (9-12)
This course is a semester-long elective open to students of any grade level, but may only be taken once throughout high school. We will explore the major gods and goddesses found throughout Greek mythology and study Greek heroes in-depth. The Trojan War and The Odyssey will play major roles in the course, as well as other short myths.
Leadership Through Service Learning (10, 11, or 12) * CTE Course
This course focuses on being a leader in your family, school, community and career. Concepts to be covered include working in teams and team building; mediation; leadership styles; project planning and decision making; public relations; citizenship and character. Service learning project work will be required of the class. Four days per week will be spent in service learning work. This is an excellent preparatory course for those interested in making a difference by being positive leaders in their school and community.
Reading (9-11)
This course assists students in improving their reading skills and retention levels. Specific approaches for each type of reading are explained whether it is for an academic text, functional or “real world” print and recreational material. The Dakota Assessment of Content Standards is administered early in the year and is compared with a retest score later to demonstrate to the individual student areas of strengths, weaknesses, and improvements. The class is specially structured to encourage individualized instruction and growth. Various building blocks of skills are visited and revisited and applied simultaneously to create a necessary foundation for successful reading.
SDSU Class (Seniors Only)
Seniors may choose to take an SDSU course.
Yearbook (9-12)
The “history” of the school year is represented in the yearbook. The yearbook is an ongoing project throughout the year. Students work together as a team to design and create the publication. Assignments, including photography, are to be accomplished in a timely manner. Deadlines are met throughout the year. Successful staffers are self-starters. They also have a working knowledge of English, composition, and a willingness to learn new computer software. Skills learned include journalistic writing and editing, page layout and graphic design principles, photography basics, technology, business, organization, communication, management and leadership. Must have teacher approval prior to registration.
Apex Learning Online AP Courses
Courses available:
· One-Semester Courses: * AP Macroeconomics * AP Microeconomics * AP Psychology * AP US Government and Politics
· Two-Semester Courses: * AP Biology * AP Calculus * AP Chemistry * AP English & Composition * AP French Language * AP Physics B * AP Spanish Language * AP Statistics * AP US History
For information on Apex Learning Online AP Courses: Please visit www.apexlearning.com/solutions/onlin_courses.asp.
For details about the AP curriculum visit: www.apexlearning.com/subjects/ap_subjects.asp.
Multi-District (Juniors/Seniors only) (Class offerings based on availability)
*Multi-District students must provide their own transportation.
Alternative Energy Exploration
This full-year course will consist of classroom and lab activities that will explore alternative energy resources. The course will focus on wind energy production and maintenance, solar power, ethanol fuels and bio-diesel fuels. Students will explore and visit area resources as well as learn about developing and maintaining alternative energy components.
Electronics I
Electronics is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills to construct and evaluate electronic circuits. Students will learn basic electronic components, solderless circuit board building, soldering and the use of various diagnostic tools. Some areas of study include: basic math (as it relates to electronic circuits), AC/DC circuits, magnetism, power supplies and analog circuits. This is an ideal class for students thinking about a career in electronics, engineering, physics or auto mechanics. Advanced placement may be available at several post-secondary schools in the electronics program. Activities include field trips that are relative to the topic and that encourage further education.
Health Occupations (2 period class)
This course gives students an overview of the health care industry and its occupations. The year starts with medical terminology and a brief overview of the major human body systems. Other areas of study include legal/ethical issues as they relate specifically to the health care industry. A large part of the year is spent acquiring basic skills ranging from isolation techniques to patient transfers, with Nurse Assistant certification an option at the end of the year. Students become proficient at assessing all vital signs. CPR and First Aid certification occurs before the 6-week internship at Brookings Hospital, Brookview Manor and Advance. Pro Med and Health Occupations are non-sequential courses.
Intro to AutoCAD
Intro to AutoCAD is an introductory course for students who have a high degree of interest in engineering, architecture, drafting, construction or design. AutoCAD is a widely used Computer Aided Design software used in many businesses that have the need to create drawings or layouts of products. Students will develop basic CAD skills while working with the latest AutoCAD software on the market. Industry and post-secondary schools have highly recommended the use of the latest software to prepare students for future job markets. Activities include field trips and in-house internship possibilities that are relative to the topic and that encourage further education.
Information Technology Essentials
IT Essentials is designed to provide the student with the knowledge and skills needed to build, maintain and understand today’s ever-changing computer. Students who successfully complete the program are eligible to pursue industry-standard certification to become a certified computer service technician. The program combines instructor-led online learning with hands-on laboratory exercises where students apply what they learn in class while building, maintaining and exploring various computers. This course concentrates on hardware as well as common software used in business today. Advanced placement may be available at several post-secondary schools in the IT/Computer programs. Activities include field trips that are relative to the topic and that encourage further education.
Intro to Computer Network Training
Designed to teach the student how to design, build and maintain computer networks. A broad range of topics are covered, from basic networking skills such as pulling cable to more complex concepts such as applying advanced troubleshooting tools. The program combines instructor-led, online learning with hands-on laboratory exercises where students apply what they learn in class while working on actual networks. Advanced placement may be available at several post-secondary schools in the Cisco/Networking programs. Activities include field trips that are relative to the topic and to encourage further education.
Marketing & Careers (2 period class)
One-year marketing course assists you in making decisions about your future. Area business people will share work experiences with you. On-the-job training, shadowing and class projects help you gain business experience. Hands-on experiences will move you into the real world. Learn how to start and manage your own business. A portfolio will be used to collect school- and work-based information to assist in future job selection. Learn about the development of leadership skills and qualities. Leadership training will provide enhanced relationships in students’ professions and communities.
Pro Med is designed to give students a strong background in anatomy and physiology. Students will study all body systems, and how disease processes affect them. Students learn patient care skills associated with different diseases. They also learn Universal Precautions for infection control, medical terminology (beginning or advanced), and CPR. Students also research ethical issues in health care. During fourth quarter, all students choose a career, which they like to explore, and participate in a 6-week internship with a professional in that career. Pro Med and Health Occupations are non-sequential courses.