High School Courses

Math

Science

Algebra I - Full year course
Algebra I begins with the study of linear relationships. You will graph, create, and solve linear equations and apply function notation to describe linear relationships. You will also study linear transformations and represent linear data using scatter plots and mathematical models. You will write and solve systems of linear equations and inequalities. At the end of the 1st semester, you will represent, compare, and analyze datasets in a variety of contexts. The major topics of the 2nd semester are quadratic and exponential relationships. You will learn to perform operations on polynomials and factor them. You will examine quadratic relationships in detail by writing and graphing quadratic equations. You will also model real-world situations with quadratic functions and solve quadratic equations using a variety of methods. You will investigate exponential relationships and apply exponential models to describe and make predictions about real-world situations. You will solve linear-quadratic and linear-exponential functions. At the end of the 2nd semester, you will compare different function types graphically and algebraically.

Biology with Virtual Labs - Full year
Biology with Virtual Labs is a two semester course designed to strengthen your knowledge of basic biology. The first unit provides an introduction to biology and biochemistry. It focuses on the roles of and differences between plant and animal cells. In the second unit, you’ll learn about the functions of different organ systems. The third unit covers cell division and the role of DNA and chromosomes in passing traits from parents to offspring. The fourth unit focuses on the classification, characteristics and biological processes of living organisms. In the fifth unit, you’ll study evolutionary mechanisms and the impact of environmental factors on species over time. The sixth unit focuses on the conservation of energy as it relates to living things and different ecosystems. In the last unit, you’ll explore how different ecosystems are interdependent. You will also have the option to learn more about biology through augmented reality using an app on your mobile device.

Geometry - Full year course - PreReq: Algebra I with C or better grade
In Geometry, you will explore rigid and non-rigid transformations of figures in the coordinate plane and use them to establish congruence and similarity of triangles and other shapes. You will also prove theorems about lines, angles, triangles, and parallelograms, and build geometric constructions using both basic tools and modern technology. You will review the volume formulas for some common solid figures as you extend your knowledge of two-dimensional shapes to three-dimensional shapes. You will also transition from primarily Euclidean geometry to analytical geometry—a segment of geometry focused on numerical measurements and coordinate algebra. You will use analytical geometry and observations to investigate the properties of circles and constructions related to circles. Geometry closes with a study of independent and conditional probability and how you can use probability models to represent situations arising in everyday life.

Earth & Space Science - Full year
Earth and space science is the study of the structure of our planet and Earth’s role in the solar system and universe. This branch of science relies on observations, historical data, and physical evidence to describe the natural processes that occur around us and in distant space. Semester 1 begins with a discussion of the methods and tools that scientists use to study Earth and space science, including the scientific method, modeling, and mathematics. You’ll look at theories for how the planets, solar system, and universe formed and explain the interactions between the Sun, Earth, and Moon. You’ll also learn about the emergence of Earth’s materials, atmosphere, and first lifeforms, as well as the dating methods that help us piece together Earth’s unique history. You’ll begin Semester 2 by comparing the composition of rocks and minerals and analyzing the processes involved in the rock cycle. You’ll explore the tectonic mechanisms that lead to some of Earth’s most prominent geological features. Next, you’ll study important interactions between the hydrosphere and atmosphere and the role they play in weathering and erosion. You’ll also differentiate between weather and climate and make evidence-based predictions about both using data and modeling. The last unit in this course highlights the negative effects that humans can have on the natural cycles of Earth, as well as effective measures we can take to protect our planet.

Algebra 2 - Full year course - PreReq: Geometry and Algebra I with C or better grade
Algebra 2 includes lessons that focus on the interpretation of polynomial and rational expressions. You’ll learn to create, graph, and solve equations and inequalities. You’ll also identify the key features of different types of functions and analyze them with tables, graphs, and equations. The 2nd semester includes lessons that focus on function transformations on the coordinate plane, the inverse of functions, and the properties of functions. You’ll learn to create and graph trigonometric functions and identify their key features. Toward the end of this course, you will build your understanding of the key concepts of probability and statistics.

Physics - Full Year - PreReq: Algebra I and Geometry with C or better grade
In Physics, you will learn about the “basics” of physics: how to describe and analyze motion, how forces interact with matter, and how to further describe these interactions with the aid of the concepts of energy and momentum. In the 1st Semester, you’ll explore one more specialized topic, thermodynamics, the physics of heat. In the 2nd semester, you will use your physical understanding of motion, forces and energy and apply that knowledge to some important, specialized topics in physics: the behavior of waves, applications of wave theory to light and optics, the interaction of electrical and magnetic forces, and the special “non-Newtonian” properties of energy and matter described by quantum theory.

Precalculus - Full year course - PreReq: Algebra 2 with grade of C or better
In Precalculus, you will explore and build your knowledge of inverse, trigonometric, and logarithmic functions; trigonometric identities; complex numbers; and vectors. You will also apply this knowledge to real-world situations. You will explore and build your knowledge of conic sections, matrices, sequences, induction, and probability and apply this knowledge to real-world situations. You will also study basic concepts of calculus, such as the limits of a function and area under the curve.

Environmental Science - Full year
In Environmental Science, you will learn about the importance of environmental science as an interdisciplinary field. In the 1st semester, you will describe abiotic and biotic factors of an ecosystem. You will describe the importance of biodiversity for the survival of organisms and the importance of the food chain and the food web in the ecosystem. You will learn about ecological interactions and succession. You will describe the effects of climate change and different types of adaptation. Further, you will describe the steps of the water cycle, and how carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, and phosphorous cycle in the global environment. In the 2nd semester, you will learn about the factors that affect populations. You will describe human population growth and its implications. You will describe the factors that lead to unequal distribution of natural resources on Earth. You will explain waste management. You will describe different forms of pollution, and ways to control pollution. You will describe various nonrenewable and renewable energy sources. Further, you will learn about benefits of environmental policies and identify factors that affect sustainable development.

Consumer Mathematics - 1 semester
In this course, you will learn practical applications of math. You will learn how to plan a budget, manage bank accounts, and figure the cost of a good or service. You will also learn about taxes, payroll deductions, and how to invest and borrow money. This course will help you make informed decisions about buying or renting a home or car and teach you how to protect your purchases and investments with insurance. Finally, you will study economics, or the science of the creation, distribution, and consumption of goods and services. You’ll see how economics affects you as an individual and how it affects the country as a whole.

Introduction to Astronomy -1 semester
In Introduction to Astronomy, you will learn about the history of astronomy from ancient times to modern times. You will identify the movements of the Sun, Moon, planets, and stars across the sky. You will describe the formation of the solar system, and the role of the Sun and Moon in the solar system. You will describe the causes of seasons on Earth and the reasons for life on Earth. You will learn about stars, galaxies, and the Milky Way. You will explain various theories of cosmology, and advantages and disadvantages of space exploration.

Probability & Statistics - 1 semester
Probability and Statistics is a mathematics course that teaches two related, but distinguishable disciplines. Probability is the study of the likelihood that an event will occur. For example, what is the likelihood that you will win a writing contest if there are 3,000 entries? What are the chances that you will land that lead role in the school play if 30 students audition? In statistics, you will practice the science of collecting and analyzing numerical data in order to make decisions. The study of statistics upholds that of probability. You’ve likely worked with both disciplines to varying degrees during your math education. In this course, you will represent and interpret data using dot plots, histograms, box plots, two-way frequency tables, and scatter plots. You will study normal distributions and distinguish between correlation and causation. You will also determine the conditional probability of two events or whether the events are independent. Using counting techniques and the rules of probability, you will calculate probabilities and use the results to make educated and fair decisions. You will evaluate several data collection techniques and statistical models, including simulations. The course closes with information on how you can use probability models to represent situations arising in everyday life that involve both payoff and risk.

Introduction to Forensic Science - 1 semester
In Introduction to Forensic Science, you will learn about the importance and limitations of forensic science and explore different career options in this field. You will also learn to process a crime scene, collect and preserve evidence, and analyze biological evidence such as fingerprints, blood spatter, and DNA. Moreover, you will learn to determine the time and cause of death in homicides and analyze ballistic evidence and human remains at a crime scene. Finally, you will learn about forensic investigative methods used in arson, computer crimes, financial crimes, and forgeries.

Introduction to Marine Biology - 1 semester
In the Introduction to Marine Biology course you will explore the fundamental concepts of marine biology. You will learn about the formation and characteristic features of the oceans. You will also learn about the scientific method and explore careers available in marine biology. The course will introduce you to the characteristic features of different taxonomic groups found in the ocean. You will learn about the different habitats, life forms, and ecosystems that exist in the oceans and explore the different types of adaptations marine creatures possess to survive in the ocean. You will learn about succession and the flow of energy in marine ecosystems. Finally, you will also learn about the resources that the oceans provide and the threats that the oceans face from human activities.

English

General Electives

English I - Full year
In the 1st semester, you will read and analyze literature in several different genres. In addition, you will explore many types of writing, such as creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. Dramatic conventions and the structural elements of poetry are also a focus of this course. You will sharpen your writing skills as you evaluate literary works and informational texts by examining formal techniques, form, and writing structures. In the 2nd semester, you will read and analyze literature from several different genres, as well as argumentative texts and informational texts. As you read, you will examine the author’s purpose, audience, and point of view. In this course, you will build your research skills by evaluating sources for credibility and bias, develop a research plan, and write a research paper. An important aspect of the research process will be synthesizing information and correctly citing research sources. This course will prepare you to give a presentation based on your research. Throughout this course you will sharpen your reading and writing skills.

African American Studies - 1 semester
Throughout US history, African Americans have faced great adversity in the form of enslavement and institutional racism. They fought for their freedom and worked to right a broken system, but their struggle continues today. This course studies the treatment of enslaved Africans as they were brought to America, the prejudices African Americans have experienced, and their important role in the social, political, and economic development of the United States.

Art History & Appreciation - 1 semester
In this course, you will identify the main concepts of art, expression, and creativity. You’ll also identify the basic design principles. You’ll list commonly used art terms and vocabulary and explain the art evaluation process. You will identify various art forms, art tools, techniques, and processes. You will cover art from around the world and prehistory to Renaissance to Baroque to modern day. The course culminates in a final project to analyze art from a time period and place of the student's choice.

English II - Full year
In English II, you will use the techniques you discover in authentic texts to improve your own skills as an author. In the 1st semester, you will closely read classic, modern, and world literature to explore themes, literary elements, and word choice. By reading a variety of informational texts, you will analyze the development of central ideas through the structure and vocabulary. Throughout the course you will compose your own texts and brief analyses to demonstrate your learning. In the 2nd semester, you will closely read classic, modern, and world literature to explore themes through characterization and the structure of literary texts, including Shakespeare. You will closely read seminal documents to understand how authors develop an effective argument. In the culminating unit, you will use all the skills you have learned in this course to write your own research paper from texts you select.

Artificial Intelligence - 1 semester
This course is a single-semester course that explains the evolution of Artificial Intelligence and its scope in the future. This course also describes how Artificial Intelligence is used in fields such as games, speech recognition, and computer vision. In this course, you will learn about different types of intelligent agents and their environments. You will also learn how to formulate problems and represent knowledge. The course Artificial Intelligence also covers the concepts of machine learning, natural language processing, expert systems, and robots. You will also learn about the ethics and safety issues related to artificial intelligence.

English III - American Lit - Full year
In English III, you will study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension and writing skills. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. In this course, you will read and analyze different genres in literature with an emphasis on American literary movements over time. You will also complete writing activities to evaluate literary works with regards to literary techniques, form, and theme.

Nutrition and Wellness - 1 semester
This course will cover basic knowledge about nutrition and wellness such as basic concepts of nutrition, the digestive and metabolic processes, nutrient requirements, dietary guidelines, importance of physical fitness, community health issues, food management, and careers in the field of nutrition and wellness.

English IV - British Lit - Full year
In English IV, you will explore the relation between British history and literature from the Anglo-Saxon period through the neoclassical era, including the works of Shakespeare. You will read and analyze a variety of literary works from this time period by using relevant cultural and political history presented in each lesson. In this course, you will also study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension, writing skills, and grammar and mechanics. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. In addition, you will complete writing activities using your analytical and persuasive skills.

Personal Finance - 1 semester
This course covers the fundamentals of personal finance, role of consumers in the economic system of the United States, financial planning in personal life, ways to manage finances, and different investment strategies. It also covers various career options available in the field of personal finance.

Business English - Full year
Business English is a full year course designed to strengthen your ability to read and write in the workplace. The first unit introduces the business writing process. In the second unit, you’ll learn about writing emails and instant messages, as well as examine the role that digital media plays in business. The third unit covers how to format and write specific types of business messages. In the second semester, you’ll learn about different kinds of workplace documents you may need to read or write on the job. The fifth unit introduces you to the design and visual components of workplace documents, along with strategies for giving business presentations. The sixth unit focuses on the role that professional and interpersonal skills play in the workplace. In the final unit, you’ll learn strategies that will help you find and apply for jobs.

Gothic Literature - 1 semester
This course explores different conventions, themes, and elements of Gothic literature through the analysis of representative literary works, such as Emily Dickinson’s poems about mortality and spirituality, Robert Louis Stevenson’s classic Gothic novella Strange Case of Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde, Edgar Allan Poe’s Gothic short stories, Bram Stoker’s Dracula, Robert Browning’s Gothic poems, Percy Bysshe Shelley’s Gothic drama, The Cenci, Mary Shelley’s classic Gothic novel, Frankenstein, Gothic parodies and Gothic subgenres, and modern Gothic literature.

Mythology & Folklore - 1 semester
In Mythology and Folklore, you will describe myths related to the creation of the world, the natural elements, and the destruction of the world. You will identify the main characters of various dynastic dramas, love myths, and epic legends and describe their journeys. You will trace the evolution of folklore and describe folktales from around the world.

History and Social Studies

Career and Technical Electives

US History - Full year
In US History, you will learn about the process of historical inquiry, review the events and principles behind the founding of the United States, and then apply historical inquiry to analyze societal issues, trends, and events. You’ll explore timelines to gain an understanding of how events link to each other, and you’ll analyze historical documents for a firsthand sense of how events unfolded. You’ll also gather evidence from relevant documents and historical texts in order to develop credible explanations of events in US history. In the 2nd semester, you will apply historical inquiry to analyze societal issues, trends, and events of US history from World War II to the present, including the Cold War, Civil Rights and other social movements, the Vietnam War, modern presidencies, and responses to global terrorism.

Accounting - Full year
This course covers the fundamentals of bookkeeping and financial statements. It also covers career opportunities and the key government regulations in the accounting field. This course also covers the accounting functions of different business types and the specialized accounting tasks related to them and the essential interpersonal and workplace skills required as a professional in this field.

World History - Full year
In World History, you’ll learn about major historical events, from the earliest human societies through the Middle Ages. You’ll learn about early humans, the Neolithic Revolution, and the development of civilizations in Mesopotamia, Egypt, India, and China. You’ll study major world religions and classical civilizations of the world. You’ll study the history and society in the early and late Middle Ages. In the 2nd semester. you will study global exploration and expansion, the transoceanic slave trade, and the colonization of the Americas. You’ll also examine the Renaissance and Reformation in Europe and identify the many different revolutions that occurred in world history during the 1600s and 1700s. Additionally, you will examine nationalism and imperialism during the late 1700s and throughout the 1800s. You will study the events and impact of the two world wars, identify the rise of communism, the events of the Cold War, and the end of colonialism in Africa and Asia. In the last unit, you will examine the challenges and innovations of an increasingly globalized world.

Applied Medical Terminology - Full year
In this course, you will cover the structure of the human body systems and their functions. It will also include medical terminology related to diseases, disorders, medical procedures, and treatment for each body system. In the 2nd semester, you will cover various topics like communication and professional skills, professional conduct and safety practices required in healthcare field. You will also learn how to sensitively interact with culturally diverse people. You also understand how to use technology and math skill in healthcare industry.

World Geography - Full year
This course will introduce the foundational concepts and tools of geography. You will learn about natural processes that shape the physical world and examine how these processes vary around the globe. You will earn about human geography and resource development. The course then goes on to cover each region of the world in depth.

Business Information Management - Full year
This course is intended as a practical, hands-on guide to help you understand the basic computer skills required during your college education and when pursuing a career. You will cover the needs for technology in business organizations and how businesses use hardware, software, Internet, and emerging technologies. This course also covers productivity applications such as word processing software and spreadsheet software. You will also cover the use of presentation software for preparing, enhancing, and delivering business slideshows. It also covers how databases are used to store data and improve the decision-making capabilities of business organizations. Additionally, the course covers the principles of website design and project management in business organizations.

American Government - 1 semester
In American Government, you will learn about the principles and events that led to the founding of the United States in the eighteenth century; examine how the operations of the US government are spread among three branches of government and distributed between the national, state, and federal levels of government; explore the role of the individual citizen in the operations of the government; and, finally, apply these concepts to understanding the concrete areas of foreign, domestic, and economic policy.

Career Explorations - 1 semester
This course covers all of the career clusters in the National Career Clusters Framework. You’ll explore the career pathways within each cluster, the academic and skill requirements for different career pathways, and learn about the jobs available in each pathway and the work these professionals do. This course will also guide you through the process of creating an academic and career plan based on you interests, abilities, and life goals.

Economics - 1 semester
This course covers basic economic problems such as scarcity, choice, and effective use of resources. It also covers topics on a larger scale such as market structures and international trade. It particularly focuses on the US economy and analyzes the role of the government and the Federal Reserve System.

Networking Fundamentals - Full year
This course introduces you to careers in networking as well as basic concepts in networking. You'll describe types of networks, network topologies, software-defined networking, private and public networks, as well as intranets and extranets. You'll also learn about the Internet of Things (IoT) technologies. You'll learn about networking models, networking protocols, IP addresses, and subnetting. You'll identify networking devices, cables, media, and connectors. You'll learn to install a network operating system and set up a small wired network. Finally, you'll identify common network security threats and preventive measures to secure a network. The 2nd semester focuses on network planning, administration, troubleshooting, and maintenance. You'll learn about the different phases of project management and identify important skills needed to manage a project. You'll also plan, design, and document a network. You'll learn about wireless networking standards and access methods. You’ll learn to set up and secure a wireless network. You’ll learn about virtual private networks and cloud computing. You'll also learn to troubleshoot issues related to wired and wireless networks. Finally, you’ll identify disaster recovery methods and describe how to maintain a network.

Introduction to Anthropology - 1 semester
This course is intended as a practical guide to introduce you to the field of anthropology. You 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.

Health Science I - Full year
This course will cover the structure of the human body systems and their functions. It will also cover diseases and medical procedures related to each body system. In the 2nd semester, you will cover various topics in health science, such as biomolecules, biological and chemical processes, and various diseases.

Introduction to Archaeology - 1 semester
This course introduces archaeology as a field of study. You will cover the history and evolution of modern archaeology, career options available in archaeology, different types of archaeology, techniques and methods used in archaeology, the work involved in archaeological site excavation, preserving and storing archaeological finds and the role of archaeology in indigenous cultures.

Introduction to Finance - 1 semester
This course will cover the fundamental concepts of finance, including the importance of finances and financial planning in personal life and business, ways to manage finances, different investment strategies, and various career options available in the field of finance.

Psychology - Full year
In this course, you will trace the history of psychology and examine key psychological theories. You will discuss human development and explain how the nervous and endocrine systems affect human development and behavior. You will explain various theories related to language development and acquisition. You will discuss the influence of heredity, environment, society, and culture on human behavior. In the 2nd semester, you will learn about the established theories of cognitive, psychosocial, and moral development, identify the factors that influence interpersonal relationships, recognize the origins and effects of violence, and describe prevention and treatment options for addictive behavior. You will learn about abnormal behavior and different types of psychological disorders. You will trace the history of psychological counseling and therapy and describe strategies used for problem solving and coping with stress. You will describe some key statistical concepts used in psychological research and testing, and identify career opportunities in psychology.

Audio/Video Production - Full year
This course will cover various topics in audio-video production, such as camera techniques, audio techniques, lighting techniques, editing, and video assembly. It will also cover various topics in audio-video production, such as directing techniques, editing and mastering techniques, file management and delivery formats, advanced camera and lighting techniques, and techniques for providing special effects.

Sociology - 1 semester
This course is intended as a practical, hands-on guide to introduce you to the field of sociology. You will explore the evolution of sociology as a distinct social science, learn about sociological concepts and processes, and discuss how the individual relates to society. You will also learn about the influence of culture, social structure, socialization, and social change in today's society.

Graphic Design & Illustration - Full year
This course covers careers you can pursue in graphic design. It also covers training and skills required for a graphic designer. In addition, this course describes how to create images using color and typography and how to manipulate images. It also guides you how to create images using design elements and principles. You will cover the advanced manipulation of images. It will guide you on how to create graphic products such as logos, posters, and magazine covers. This course also covers multimedia and digital photography. In addition, the course covers art criticism in graphic artwork, digital publishing, and the creation of graphic design portfolio. Finally, this course covers copyright laws and ethics related to the use of graphic design.