SIOUX VALLEY HIGH SCHOOL
2026-27 COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
4-Year Plan
Freshman Sophomore Junior Senior
The Sioux Valley School District 5-5 does not discriminate in its employment policies and practices, or in its educational programs on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, parental, family, or marital status. Inquiries concerning the application of Title VI, Title X, or 504 are to contact Supt. Laura Schuster, Sioux Valley High School, 200 Hansina Ave., Volga, SD 57071, phone 605-627-5657, fax 605-627-5291 or the US Dept of Education, Office for Civil Rights, 8930 Ward Parkway, Suite 2037, Kansas City, MO, 64114, phone 816-268-0550 or 1-800-437-0833, fax 816-823-1404, email ocr.KansasCity@ed.gov, website www.ed.gov/ocr/.
ENGLISH
English I * (9) - 1 Credit
This course will deepen students' capacities to respond to works of literature. As they read a variety of genres, students will expand their awareness of literary style and will learn approaches that will make them more discerning readers and writers. Students will view literature with an awareness of literary elements such as theme, plot, and various literary devices. In addition to a variety of genres, students will also study vocabulary and grammar as well as the structure and process of effective writing. Works studied include Ender’s Game, To Kill a Mockingbird, poetry, short stories, and other works. Students will also engage in formal vocabulary and grammar study as well as study the elements of research. By the end of the year, students will select a dystopian novel which will be the basis for independent reading and writing.
English II with Speech* (10) - 1 Credit
This course builds on the skills begun in English I. Through a study of a range of genres and authors, students will begin to move toward a greater awareness of world literature texts. Students will develop their critical thinking skills, write with growing proficiency, and speak with escalating confidence, as they make individual as well as group presentations. Texts studied include The Taming of the Shrew, The Things They Carried, short stories, and other student-selected works. Additionally, this course teaches the basics of speech communication and creates a level of confidence in students. Students will cultivate skills that can be used in a variety of speaking situations and purposes (such as to inform, to persuade, to entertain, and to demonstrate). Focus will be on organization, writing for verbal delivery, stylistic choices, visual and presentation skills, analysis and critique, and overcoming the fear of public speaking.
English III / American Literature * (11) - 1 Credit
This course focuses on two main areas of American Literature: 1) The history of literature (both fiction and non-fiction) in America, and 2) The fine-tuning of composition and grammar skills necessary for effective writing, specifically in the areas of argumentative writing, narrative writing, and literary analysis. We will read a wide range of literature including The Great Gatsby, Of Mice and Men, The Crucible, as well as notable American authors from the beginnings of America to famous contemporaries. Students will learn the basics of writing resumes, cover letters, and personal statements. Students will also work to improve informational text understanding and analysis.
American Literature courses focus upon commonly known American authors and their work. Students improve their critical-thinking skills as they determine the underlying assumptions and values within the selected works and as they understand how the literature reflects the society of the time. Oral discussion is an integral part of literature courses, and written compositions are often required.
British Literature/English IV * (12) - 1 Credit
This course focuses on English and World Literature that addresses the Sioux Valley guidelines of quality producers, self-directed learners, cooperative workers, and culturally enlightened persons. It is a study of drama, poetry, and novels dating from the Anglo-Saxon Period and Middle Ages through the modern age. During the year, students will tackle many pieces of literature from a variety of time periods and genres. Students will write critical and comparative analyses of selected literature, continuing to develop their language arts skills. In addition, there will be focus on vocabulary growth, language mechanics, and academic research writing. In the spring semester, students will complete a rigorous research project. A passing grade on this research project is required to earn credit for the semester.
MATH
Algebra I * (9) - 1 Credit
This course includes the study of properties and operations of the real number system; evaluating rational algebraic expressions; solving and graphing first-degree equations and inequalities; translating word problems into equations; operations with and factoring of polynomials; solving systems of linear equations; and solving simple quadratic equations.
Geometry * (10) - 1 Credit
The emphasis in this course is helping students understand and develop mathematical maturity in the logical reasoning process. Geometry includes topics such as properties of plane and solid figures, deductive methods of reasoning and use of logic. Other topics included are the study of points, lines, planes, angles, triangles, and their properties, proficiency in developing proofs of congruence, parallel and perpendicular lines, similarity, proportions, simple geometric constructions and supplemented with topics in trigonometry. Prerequisite: Algebra I
Algebra II * (11) - 1 Credit
The topics in this course include field properties and theorems; set theory; operations with rational and irrational expressions; factoring of rational expressions; in-depth study of linear equations and inequalities; quadratic equations; solving systems of linear and quadratic equations; graphing of constant, linear, and quadratic equations; properties of higher-degree equations; operations with rational and irrational exponents; and an introduction of trigonometry. Prerequisites: Algebra I and Geometry
Transitional Algebra II * (11) - 1 Credit
Transition Algebra courses review and extend algebra concepts for students who have already taken Algebra I and Geometry. Transition Algebra II includes a review of such topics as properties and operations of real numbers; evaluation of rational algebraic expressions; solutions and graphs of first-degree equations and inequalities; translation of word problems into equations; operations with and factoring of polynomials; simple quadratics; properties of plane and solid figures; rules of congruence and similarity; coordinate geometry including lines, segments, and circles in the coordinate plane; and angle measurement in triangles including trigonometric ratios.
*NOTE: Does not meet the requirements for the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship or SD Regent Scholar.
Pre-Calculus (12) - 1 Credit
This course combines the study of Trigonometry, Elementary Functions, Analytic Geometry, and Mathematic Analysis topics as preparation for calculus. Topics typically include the study of complex numbers; polynomial, logarithmic, exponential, rational, right trigonometric, and circular functions, and their relations, inverses and graphs; trigonometric identities and equations; solutions of right and oblique triangles; vectors; the polar coordinate system; conic sections; Boolean algebra and symbolic logic; mathematical induction; matrix algebra; sequences and series; and limits and continuity. Prerequisite: Algebra II
SCIENCE
Physical Science with Earth* (9) - 1 Credit
Physical Science is designed as an introduction to physics and chemistry. Students will explore the movement of objects in the first semester. Topics will include describing motion, predicting motion using Newton’s laws, and the fundamental forces behind movement. Students will deepen their understanding of energy through exploring the fundamental principles of electricity and magnetism, and the nature and use of sound and electromagnetic waves. The second semester of the course explores the matter around us on the atomic level, the nature of chemical bonding, and the reactions that make new substances. You will learn about physics and chemistry by using a combination of lab investigations, modeling, reading, and data interpretation.
Biology * (10) - 1 Credit
This laboratory course investigates the fundamental concepts of life and life processes. Students will examine molecular structure, biochemistry, cell structure and function, cellular transport, and cell reproduction. Topics include molecules found in living things, cell life cycles, cell organelles, homeostasis, transport, and mitosis/meiosis. Second semester covers basic genetics, human genetic disorders, replication, transcription and translation of DNA, as well as classification of organisms, evolution, photosynthesis, respiration, ecosystem interactions, nitrogen, carbon, oxygen, phosphorus, and water cycles.
Chemistry * (11) - 1 Credit
This laboratory course provides students with the opportunity to discover matter, its’ structure, and its’ interactions. Topics explored include the atom, the periodic table, chemical names and formulas, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, thermochemistry, equilibrium, reaction rates, states of matter, and acids/bases. This lab science class builds on the knowledge of each previous unit and requires some mathematical understanding. Prerequisite: Biology
Conceptual Chemistry (11) - 1 Credit
This course provides an understanding of important chemical concepts as they apply to everyday life. Course content includes matter, measurements, the Periodic Table and atomic structure, chemical compounds and equations, gases, solutions, and acid/base chemistry. This lab course will be taught utilizing mathematical concepts. Conceptual Chemistry is intended for the student not planning to pursue a four-year college degree. Prerequisite: Biology
NOTE: Does not meet the requirements of the South Dakota Opportunity Scholarship or Regent Scholar.
Anatomy and Physiology (11-12) - 1 Credit
This course is for those interested in science-related fields. Anatomy and Physiology is a discussion and laboratory course-based study of the human body. The study will include anatomical terminology, study cells and tissues, and explore functional systems (skeletal, muscular, circulatory, respiratory, digestive, reproductive, nervous, etc.). Dissection of a fetal pig and other appropriate organs will complement coursework. A field trip to the SDSU Anatomy lab reinforces the material. This course is designed for college preparation, especially for biology and health career majors. Prerequisite: Biology
Physics (12) - 1 Credit
This is an elective lab science course that requires higher-order thinking skills. Physics also requires advanced math skills using physical constants, conversion factors, and mathematical equations to analyze data from lab exercises. Physics involves the study of forces and laws of nature affecting matter such as equilibrium, motion, momentum, and the relationship between matter and energy. Topics include an examination of sound, light, and magnetic and electric phenomena. Physics is good preparation for anyone going into engineering or any of the sciences. Prerequisite: Algebra II
SOCIAL STUDIES
World History * (9) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
This course focuses on world historical events, which have influenced and shaped societies. This class will start with the ancient civilizations of Asia, the Middle East, North Africa, and Eastern Mediterranean Sea and conclude as close to the present day as possible. Major events covered include, Greek and Roman Empires and Mythology, The Middle Ages, The Renaissance, The Reformation, The Enlightenment, The Industrial Revolution, European Expansion and Imperialism, World War I and World War II. This class gives students an understanding of how studying history can help to shape our modern-day decision-making procedures.
World Geography * (10) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
This course is the study of regions of the world. This class stresses two main areas: 1) Physical Geography: location of continents, countries, landforms, and bodies of water around the globe, and 2) Cultural Geography: values, lifestyles, food/clothing, arts, government structures, and population patterns. The class gives students a solid background in recognizing all geographical areas/locations on the planet, as well as understanding human activities and interactions on a global setting.
U.S. History * (11) - 1 Credit
This course covers content of North American peoples before European settlement to present day. The period of 1492 to 2008 will be prioritized. This class places a special emphasis on American History, including the perspectives, values, and reasoning we can draw from analyzing history. Topics which will be covered include political, military, scientific, and social developments which influenced US history. Current events are integrated into the curriculum so that students can see modern connections. The National History Day will be a major element of this course.
U.S. Government * (12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
U.S. Government provides an overview of the structure and functions of the U.S. government and political institutions and examines constitutional principles, the concepts of rights and responsibilities. Throughout this course we will analyze national, state, and local government units. This will include the development of our governmental structures, basic concepts such as limited government, popular sovereignty, checks and balances, separation of powers, personal freedoms, rule of law, and federalism. We will investigate government functions, the United States Constitution, and other significant American documents.
Civics * (12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
Civics examines the general structure and functions of U.S. systems of government, the roles and responsibilities of citizens to participate in the political process, and the relationship of the individual to the law and legal system. The role of political parties, interest groups, and the three branches of government will also be covered. This course will also explore South Dakota's government and local governmental structures while maintaining an emphasis on the citizen's role to interact and participate in government functions.
COMPUTER
CTE - Business Computer Applications * (9) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
Students acquire knowledge of and experience in the proper and efficient use of previously written software packages. The student will learn to identify the general usage of technology, software, and applications. Utilizing that knowledge, this course will cover topics such as, but not limited to, word processing, spreadsheets, presentations, operating systems, internet browsers, search engines, databases, preventive maintenance, security, digital literacy, netiquette, and citizenship. The course expands the student's skills, knowledge, and confidence in various forms of software platforms and applications.
FINE ARTS
Visual Arts I (9-12) - 1 Credit
This course will give a better understanding of the elements of art; shape, line, texture, value and color using many mediums. Mediums will include pencil, ink pen, markers, acrylic and watercolor paints, clay, chalks and oil pastels. Pencil shading, color theory other art principles will be taught along with experiences in collage, three-dimensional sculpture, and perspective drawing. Student work will be exhibited. Students will be responsible for cost of basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school.
Ceramics (10-12) - 1 Credit
This course focuses on creating a variety of three-dimensional pieces from clay, developing an understanding of the nature of clay, and the difference between sculptural and functional artworks. This includes investigation of the three basic hand-building techniques: Pinch, Coil, and Slab. Students will also learn how to create and throw ceramic forms using the potter’s wheel. A variety of surface treatment techniques will be explored. Student work will be exhibited. Students will be responsible for cost of basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school.
Drawing (10-12) - 0.5 Credit, Fall Semester Only
In Drawing, emphasis will be placed on the principles of drawing: contour, line, proportion, and perspective. Students will develop the ability to perceive the world around us and understand the relationship of how it translates onto paper. Students will work with a variety of materials, mark-making techniques, exercises, and assignments designed to enhance this process. This will involve working from still-life and photographs, as well as imagination. Compositional strategies and development of concepts will be refined throughout the semester. Through the exploration of media, students will develop and learn various techniques including charcoal, pencil, pen, brush/ink, watercolor, pastel, marker, and colored pencil. Students will be responsible for cost of basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school.
Painting (10-12) - 0.5 Credit, Spring Semester Only
Students will continue the exploration of technique, content, and craftsmanship skills through the acquisition in various painting media, including watercolor, acrylic, oil, and airbrush. Students will have the opportunity to choose and develop subject matter as they are refining their painting techniques. This also includes a foundation of technical knowledge, studio practice, and care of materials, equipment, and tools. In developing critical dialogue with peers, students will find a personal connection to painting. Students will be responsible for cost of basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school.
Printmaking (10-12) - 0.5 Credit, Fall Semester Only
This printmaking course provides students with hand-on experience working in a variety of traditional and non-traditional printmaking techniques and processes. Printmaking will emphasize on the artistic expression through basic fundamental processes and history, such as relief printmaking, etching, monoprint and monotype, as well as various mixed media printmaking techniques. This course will focus on and encourage critical thinking and investigation through various art-making processes, and students will learn and develop their own style through practice and experimentation, reflecting and refining their work. Student work will be exhibited. Students will be responsible for cost of basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school. Prerequisite: Visual Arts I
Crafts (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Spring Semester Only
Crafts will focus on applying fundamental elements and principles of design through various forms of artistic expressions, in response to the materials and aesthetics of crafts. This course will also examine, explore, and develop an understanding of how the materials have been used and created for various practical needs and cultural significance of people around the world through two and three-dimensional expressions. Crafts will also explore various aesthetic and surface design techniques surrounding folk art and how artists respond to the use of objects to create artwork and utilize problem-solving and critical thinking skills to further develop their art-making abilities. This project-based course will explore various craft art-forms including book and paper making, ink and calligraphy, mask making, decoupage, fibers, fabric, paper mache, found objects, sculpture, wood, paint, and mixed media techniques. Students will be responsible for cost of basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school.
Art Portfolio (11-12) - 1 Credit
At this level, students have displayed a strong interest in the field of art and have determined it as an important part of their lives. Students will determine their own compositions for their projects, while keeping in mind the elements and principles of design. Investigation of creative media will be strongly emphasized through the exploration of various media and surface techniques. Students will learn creative and portfolio presentation skills needed to prepare them to build and refine artwork for pursuing a career in the visual arts. Art Portfolio will focus and encourage critical thinking and investigation of art-making processes where students will develop their own style and technique, as well as formulate personal artistic goals for the future. Students will create, select, respond to, and present work that clearly reflects their technical skills, conceptual thinking and personal interests. These courses may include individual critiques and peer review. Students will be responsible for cost of basic art supplies, which are purchased through the school. Prerequisites: Drawing and Painting or Ceramics
Art Appreciation (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
Art Appreciation introduces students to the historical study of and foundation for many forms of art. This course helps students form an aesthetic framework to examine social, political, and historical events in the world and how visual images express the ideas of individuals and society. Students are involved in the creative process through research and lecture, responding and dialogue, observation and interpretation with art works and artifacts.
Band (9-12) - 1 Credit
This course provides an opportunity to build upon current instrumental skills and knowledge as we prepare various types of repertoires throughout the year. Performances include concerts, pep band, marching band, and contests. There are additional opportunities in jazz band, solo/ensemble contests, and honors band. Students may also audition for All-State Ensembles. Grades are based on attendance, participation, and performance. Students will benefit by working individually and as a team to develop a sense of community, confidence, and lifelong music skills, appreciation, and understanding.
Chorus (9-12) - 1 Credit
The Sioux Valley Mixed Concert Choir is a fine arts elective that strives to vocally develop musicians through a variety of different musical experiences and repertoire. The ensemble setting nurtures cooperative teamwork and seeks to build positive self-esteem and confidence through individual and group learning activities and performances. Various honors choirs and festivals are available to students in this ensemble. Criteria for grading include participation and effort, as well as classroom assignments and concert attendance.
PERSONAL WELLNESS
Fitness & Conditioning * (10) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
The purpose of this course is to improve students’ strength, agility and fitness using a multi-phase training approach that is tailored to Sioux Valley’s period length and facility. Students will learn safe use of strength equipment and techniques while performing research based free weight exercises aimed at increasing explosive strength and injury prevention. Students will improve fitness by training the body’s three energy systems (ATP-PC, Lactic Acid & Aerobic) while performing an array of activities aimed at increasing speed, agility, and core strength. Performance is pre and post evaluated by measuring vertical jump and calculating an estimated 1 rep max by using a multi-rep formula.
Early Weight Training (11-12 only) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course, 7:15-8:05am
Weight Training courses help students develop knowledge and skills with free weights and universal stations while emphasizing safety and proper body positioning; they may include other components such as anatomy and conditioning.
PERSONAL FINANCE, HEALTH, CAPSTONE * (12)
0.5 credit each, 12-Week Course
Personal Finance:
This course provides students with an understanding of the concepts and principles involved in managing one’s personal finances. These courses emphasize lifespan goal setting, individual and family decision-making, and consumer rights, as well as topics that are commonly associated with personal finance so that one can become a financially responsible consumer. Topics may include savings and investing, credit, insurance, taxes and social security, spending patterns and budget planning, contracts, and consumer protection. These courses may also investigate the effects of the global economy on consumers and the family. Students will also utilize EverFi, a new-media learning platform that uses the latest technology – video, animations, 3-D gaming, avatars, and social networking – to bring complex financial concepts to life for today’s digital generation. This program is funded through BankStar Financial of Volga.
Health
Students will learn concepts related to health promotion and disease prevention to enhance health. Students will analyze the influence of family, peers, culture, media, technology and other factors on health behaviors. Students will demonstrate the ability to access valid information, products, and services to enhance health. Students will develop skills to enhance health and avoid or reduce health risk. Students will demonstrate the ability to use decision-making and goal-setting skills to enhance health. Students will also develop the ability to advocate for personal, family and community health.
Capstone: Senior Experience, Service Learning, Entrepreneurship Experience or Youth Internship
Capstone experiences allow students the opportunity to consolidate and apply the learning from their high school coursework into a meaningful and relevant career-related experience.
Senior Experience is based on a personal proposal that requires students to demonstrate not only what they know but what they can do. Students will be expected to conceive a plan of action that incorporates the following four elements: a product, research component, portfolio and presentation. Capstone: Senior Experience calls upon students to use skills they have acquired and practiced throughout formal education. It will take them out of their comfort zones, preparing them for life beyond high school.
Youth Internship allows students the opportunity to consolidate and apply the learning from their school coursework into a meaningful and relevant on-the-job experience. An internship is an opportunity for a student to gain authentic, real-world, hands-on experience with one or more employees at a business, non-profit organization or government agency. Based on the internship experience(s), students will gain insight into their postsecondary personal learning plan. Prerequisite: Career Skills & Exploration
Service Learning - Community Service courses provide students with the opportunity to volunteer their time, energy, and talents to serve a community project or organization. These courses are usually (but not always) conducted with a seminar component, so that students can use their volunteer experience to learn how to solve problems, make decisions, and communicate effectively.
Entrepreneurship Experience provides students with the opportunity to develop the skills needed to establish a business. Through hands-on projects, students gain skills to be successful in the workplace. These skills can include, but are not limited to, meeting timelines, making decisions, conducting research, and preparing and making presentations. Students study, research and prepare a business plan that illustrates the practicality of their particular business. Both school and business mentors assist students in the process of developing a business plan. Students present this plan to a panel of community representatives and/or business leaders and are evaluated on the business plan, project portfolio and their presentation.
WORLD LANGUAGE
Spanish I (9-12) - 1 Credit
This course is an introduction to the Spanish language and culture. Coursework will prepare students to communicate in Spanish by interpreting material (reading, listening, viewing), exchanging information (speaking and listening, reading and writing), and presenting on a variety of topics (speaking, writing). Through these modes of communication, students will be exposed to the products, practices, and perspectives of Spanish-speaking cultures.
Spanish II (10-12) - 1 Credit
Spanish II will build on skills mastered in Spanish I. Students will again interpret material (reading, listening, viewing), exchange information (speaking and listening, reading and writing), and present on a variety of topics (speaking, writing). Spanish II will further expose students to the products, practices, and perspectives unique to Spanish-speaking cultures.
Prerequisite: Spanish I, unless a native Spanish speaker
Spanish III (11-12) - 1 Credit
Spanish III prepares students to communicate authentically in Spanish by interpreting (reading, listening, viewing), exchanging (speaking and listening, reading and writing), and presenting (speaking, writing) information, concepts, and ideas on a variety of topics, including connections to other subject areas. These courses expand students’ knowledge of relationships among the products, practices, and perspectives of Spanish-speaking countries and cultures.
Prerequisites: Spanish I & Spanish II, unless a native Spanish speaker
ELECTIVES
CTE - Accounting I (9-12) - 1 Credit, Offered every other year with Accounting II.
Accounting courses introduce students to and expand their knowledge of the fundamental accounting principles and procedures used in businesses through integrating and using accounting-related software and information systems. Course content includes the recording and completion of the accounting cycle, payroll, taxes, debts, depreciation, and periodic adjustments through a computerized accounting program. Students may learn how to apply standard auditing principles and to prepare budgets and final reports. Calculators, electronic spreadsheets, or computer accounting software are usually used. Advanced topics may include principles of partnership and corporate accounting and the managerial use of control systems and the accounting process.
CTE - Accounting II (10-12) - 1 Credit; Offered every other year with Accounting I.
Students in Accounting II will develop advanced skills that build upon those acquired in Accounting I. Additional accounting skills such as departmentalized accounting, reconciling uncollectible accounts, calculating depreciation on assets, interpreting financial information, and calculating notes and interest will be developed. Prerequisite: Accounting I
CTE - Ag Natural Resources (9) - 0.5 Credit, Fall Semester Only
Natural Resources Management courses combine the fields of ecology and conservation with planning for the efficient use and preservation of land, water, wildlife, and forests. Within the general area of natural resources management, these courses usually cover specific topics and uses, such as hunting or fishing preserves, safe usage initiatives, forest production and management, wildlife preservation, and commercial use of natural resources.
CTE - Plant Science (9) - 0.5 Credit, Spring Semester Only
Fundamental Plant Science courses provide knowledge about the propagation of plants for food and fiber. These courses may cover such topics as soil science, irrigation, pest and weed control, food and fiber processing, and farm operations. These courses may also cover the knowledge and skills needed to produce all types of crops or may emphasize a particular area of the agricultural industry.
CTE - Animal Science (10) - 0.5 Credit, Fall Semester Only
Animal Production/Science courses impart information about the care and management of farm animals. These courses may cover animal nutrition, health, behavior, selection, reproduction, anatomy and physiology, facilities, product processing, research, qualitative and quantitative analyses as a basis for decision-making, and marketing. Students study particular species and will learn how to care for and maintain livestock as a more inclusive study.
CTE - Agribusiness (10) - 0.5 Credit, Spring Semester Only
Agribusiness Sales and Marketing courses provide students with the information and skills necessary for success in agribusiness and in operating entrepreneurial ventures in the agricultural industry. These courses may cover topics such as economic principles, budgeting, risk management, finance, business law, marketing and promotion strategies, insurance, and resource management. Other possible topics include developing a business plan, employee/employer relations, problem-solving and decision-making, commodities, and building leadership skills. These courses may also incorporate a survey of the careers within the agricultural industry.
CTE - Fundamental Ag Mechanical Technologies (11) - 0.5 Credit, Fall Semester Only
Agriculture Mechanics/Equipment/Structures courses provide students with the skills and knowledge that are specifically applicable to the tools and equipment used in the industry. While learning to apply their knowledge of the basic principles of technological design and production skills (engine mechanics, power systems, welding, and carpentry, among others), students may explore a broad range of topics, including the operation, mechanics, and care of tools and machines; the construction and repair of structures integral to agricultural operations; a study of electricity and power principles; and the study of alternative fuels, technology and engineering, and safety procedures.
CTE - Ag Systems Technology (11) - 0.5 Credit, Spring Semester Only
The Ag Systems Technology course provides students with the engineering, power, and mechanical technology principles, skills, and knowledge that are specifically applicable to the agricultural industry. Typical topics include the operation, maintenance, and repair of power, electrical, hydraulic, pneumatic, renewable, wind, solar, and mechanical systems.
CTE - Ag Structures (12) - 1 Credit
The Ag Structures course is offered only to Seniors. It will teach the basics needed for construction of agricultural structures. Topics covered in this class are planning, constructing and maintaining agricultural structures, personal and occupational safety, plan reading, laying out structures, selection, use and maintenance of hand and power tools, and framing agricultural buildings. The class will consist of a major building project that will teach the principles above. Priority registration to students who enrolled in Natural Resources, Plant Science, Agribusiness, Agricultural Mechanics, and/or Animal Science.
CTE - Basic Food Principles (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
The semester long course of Basic Food Principles will teach the basics of food selection, storage, and preparation. Emphasis is on consumerism, planning nutritious meals and basic food preparation techniques. Students will participate in food labs and will learn the basics of safety and sanitation through hands-on food lab activities.
CTE - Career Skills & Exploration (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
Career Skills and Exploration is a one semester course designed to teach students how to choose and plan for a career. Students look at their interests, skills, personality, and aptitudes and use that information to help them make viable post-secondary and career decisions. The course focuses on preparing students for the demands of the world of work by integrating valuable career skills into the curriculum. Relevant topics include interview skills, effective written and verbal communication, work ethics, teamwork and career success and satisfaction. By the end of the course, students will complete an in-depth exploration of several careers and will identify career pathways that best fit their skills, aptitudes, and interests. *Required for Senior Capstone: Youth Internship.
CTE - Leadership & Service Learning (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
Leadership and Service Learning is a semester project-based course that offers students the opportunity to learn, practice, and apply the skills needed for future success in their careers and personal lives. This class will focus on helping each student identify personal leadership styles and give them opportunities to use their skills to succeed and to help others. Students select service-learning opportunities that fit their needs and may be related to student organizations or other service groups. Assistance will be provided to plan and complete service-learning projects. Emphasis will be on developing leadership styles, strengthening the qualities of good leaders, and providing service.
CTE - Child Development: Birth-to-Toddler (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
This semester course deals with human development from conception through adolescence. Topics covered include human reproduction, child development and how to deal with children, roles and responsibilities of parents, exploring the challenges of parenthood as well as developing an understanding of children and why they act as they do, a unit on sexually transmitted diseases, teenage pregnancy, and teen parenting are included in the curriculum. During the semester, students will have the opportunity to go into elementary classrooms each week to work with children and apply skills learned in class to real-life situations. Students will also take part in an infant simulator experience by taking home a BabyThink It Over simulator for 1 weekend. The class is recommended for anyone interested in careers working with children, in education, or in taking the Teaching and Training as a Profession course.
CTE - Human Development: Adolescence-to-Adulthood (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
This one semester course deals with human development and helps students prepare for the roles of adulthood. Human Development: Adolescence through Adulthood is a course that is designed to enable students to gain the knowledge necessary to understand the developmental stages from adolescence through late adulthood. The course will examine the developmental tasks, traits, and problems of each of these stages. The class is recommended for anyone interested in careers working with people from school age to geriatrics.
CTE - Interior Design (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
Interior Design provides students with basic knowledge regarding furnishing and decorating home environments. While exploring design principles, personal or customer needs and style, and decision-making, students may also explore the following topics: color, texture, furniture styles and arrangement, lighting, window treatments, floor and wall coverings, and home improvement/modification.
Native American Studies (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Spring Semester Only
This course will focus primarily on the Oceti Sakowin through the lens of history, culture, government, literature, art, and more. Additional areas of focus include historical and contemporary analyses of tribal nations across the US.
Psychology (10-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
Psychology introduces students to the scientific study of the human mind and behavior. Course content includes an overview of the field of psychology, topics of the evolving mind, the biological mind, the adaptive mind, and so much more!
Social Problems (10-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
Sociology introduces students to the study of human behavior in society. This course provides an overview of sociology, including topics such as social institutions and norms, socialization, and social change, and the relationships among individuals and groups in society.
E-LEARNING ELECTIVES:
Prerequisite:
· Freshmen: 3.25 cumulative GPA
· Upperclassmen: 2.75 cumulative GPA
CTE - Introduction to Business (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Fall Semester Only
This online course focuses on an introduction to business at an entry-level in which students are introduced to all aspects of business: the domestic and international economies, financial principles, management strategies, administrative and information systems, ethics, and organizational and professional leadership. Students will analyze the elements of the business environment and focus on attitudinal and problem-solving skills inherent to success.
CTE - Business Law (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Spring Semester Only
This course focuses on an understanding of the court system at the local, state, and national levels. Students will gain an understanding of contract law, their rights and responsibilities as citizens, utilization of financial transactions, employment, and agency relationships, and the understanding of the regulations governing different types of business organizations. Topics include the role of business; economic systems; forms of business; management and marketing principles; financial planning; investment options, court systems; sources of law; criminal law; tort law; contract law; consumer law; and employment law.
CTE - Intro to Law, Public Safety, Security & Corrections I (9-12) - 0.5 Credit, Semester Course
Exploration of Public Service Careers through this course exposes students to the duties, responsibilities, requirements, and career opportunities within public service. Course topics vary and may include public safety, police, fire, emergency services, law, forensics, corrections, fire/EMS, and homeland security issues. Course activities depend upon the career clusters that students explore.
DUAL CREDIT (11-12)
High School Dual Credit (HSDC) courses allow high school students who meet admissions standards to enroll in South Dakota’s public universities. Students taking HSDC courses earn credits for their high school diploma and college degree.
Admission Standards:
Juniors: 3.5 cumulative GPA; or ACT composite score of 24; or rank in upper 1/3 of class.
Juniors can take 1 dual credit per semester.
Seniors: 3.25 cumulative GPA; or ACT composite score of 21; or rank in upper 1/2 of class.
Seniors taking first-time HSDC can take 1 dual credit course the first semester, and up to 3 dual credit courses the second semester.
Seniors with prior HSDC courses can take up to 3 dual credit courses per semester.
An asterisk (*) designates a required course.
CTE Defined: Career and Technical Education
The goal of the South Dakota Department of Education is for all students to graduate college, career and life ready. The Division of Career and Technical Education (DCTE) provides support for students’ preparations for postsecondary education and the workforce. Services are connected to approved Career & Technical Education (CTE) programs, work-based learning, school counseling and SDMyLife. In-line with the department’s aspiration, DCTE works to ensure students not only graduate from high school, but that they are prepared to navigate the transitions and life events that come after high school. https://doe.sd.gov/cte/
Sioux Valley School District 5-5 does not discriminate in its educational programs on the basis of race, color, creed, religion, age, sex, disability, national origin, ancestry, or family/marital status. For special accommodations, please contact the Special Education Director at 605.627-5657. Sioux Valley School Dist., 200 Hansina Ave, Volga SD 57071.