Class Descriptions
 

ENGLISH

English I Literature/Composition
Students focus on the enjoyment and analysis of literature according to genre and/or theme. Students will master the basics of personal and expository writing through extensive grammar, usage, and composition activities. Including research activities designed to enhance critical thinking skills. Students will complete activities on outside reading selections from the department recommended list.
 
English I Literature/Composition [Honors]
Designed for students who have exhibited above average proficiency in the area of language arts, this course encompasses skills related to the analysis of literature within a composition based program. English I Honors requires students to participate in extensive composition, listening, speaking, vocabulary, and research activities in order to enhance all aspects of their communication. Students will complete activities on outside reading selections from the department recommended list.
English II Literature/Composition
Students continue their study of literature with emphasis on the conventions of each genre. Higher level research skills as well as an emphasis on the structure and content of various types of essays comprise the majority of the students’ grammar/composition study. Students will complete activities on outside reading selections from the department recommended list.
 
English II Literature/Composition [Honors]
Designed for students who have exhibited above average proficiency in language arts, English II Honors assists students in polishing their composition skills and increasing the depth of their study of literature. Focal points of the course include the study of fiction and nonfiction literary techniques as well as the application of essay writing skills. Students will complete activities on outside reading selections from the department recommended list.
 
English III
English III will guide students through a comprehensive study of the various periods and important authors in American Literature. Students will continue to develop their writing skills through a study of sophisticated and appropriate grammatical conventions and writing styles.
 
English III [Honors]
English III Honors will guide students through an intensive study of the various periods of American Literature. Students will read a variety of texts as they hone their skills as writers through a focused study of sophisticated grammatical conventions and writing styles.
 
AP English Language and Composition

AP English Language and Composition engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. The course will draw its readings from American Literature. In addition to studying a wide range of prose and writing, the course will focus on appropriate and sophisticated use of grammatical conventions and will develop the stylistic maturity of students in their prose writing.

 
English IV British Literature/Composition
English IV is a senior survey course of British Literature from early medieval to contemporary times. Students study the literary periods and movements, most significant authors, and most significant works of each genre of British Literature. Additionally, students write both personal and analytical essays demonstrating proficiency in standard English usage and style.
 
English IV British Literature/Composition [Honors]
Designed for seniors who have demonstrated above average proficiency in English III American Literature and Composition, English IV Honors offers enrichment and enhancement studies in British Literature.
 

AP English Literature/Composition and Humanities [Year-long Course]

For seniors only, these alternating day companion College Board approved courses must be taken together in order to prepare for the AP exams in May. These college level courses use college level texts and materials to prepare students to exempt college freshman English courses and college level Art History courses. In AP English Literature/Composition, students focus on advanced interpretation of literary works representative of all genres and advanced analytical essay writing. In Humanities, students focus on Western and non-Western philosophies, religions, art, architecture, cultures, and music. These two companion courses are the basic foundation of a liberal arts college education.
 
Young Adult Fiction and Film
Focusing on themes such as acceptance, conformity, faith, forgiveness, good and evil, commitment, and other existential issues, this course guides students through film and fiction which explores these fundamental subjects of literature. Students will read short fiction and novels as well as view films with the purpose of discussing recurring themes in a variety of multi-cultural contexts.
 
Creative Writing
Students who like to write will love this class. Students will write in a wide variety of styles and thereby learn about various types of poetry, short stories, and essays. This class will sharpen students’ discussion and listening skills, as well as their writing. Students will have the opportunity to publish their writing in the Patriots Literary Magazine .
 
Drama I
An elective course for students in grades 9-12, Drama I provides an overview of acting techniques and general stagecraft with an emphasis on experientially focused assignments. An appreciation for the complexity of effective dramatic presentation is encouraged while students engage in activities emphasizing improvisational skills, vocal improvement, stage movement, and textual script analysis.
 

Drama II

Designed for students with a serious interest and/or extensive background in theater arts, Drama II is an elective course for students in grades 9-12. The course includes the concentrated study of acting motivation and techniques, stagecraft, technical theater, and historical genres and structures of drama. The course culminates with a class production open to the public.
 
Drama III
Designed for the serious theater student, Drama III is primarily the study and production of plays from various historical periods and genres. Students will complete in depth studies of various playwrights and their works. Additionally, students will complete portfolios on selected plays which must include theatrical components such as makeup and costume design, text interpretation, scene and lighting design, as well as dramaturgical information such as historical and cultural contexts for the plays.
 
Drama IV: Performing for Camera and Film
Designed only for students who have passed Drama III , this course emphasizes acting and producing for camera and film. Students study the history of film, camera techniques, story board creation, and scriptwriting. After field trips and interactive study of local television stations, students in this course will design and run an in-school closed circuit television studio.
 
Journalism/Newspaper
With enrollment limited to students who are members of the school newspaper staff, this hands-on course produces the Northside High School newspaper on a quarterly basis. Students participate in all aspects of newspaper production including gathering news, writing articles, editing, photography, business management, design, and layout. Application must be made to the newspaper advisor.
 
Journalism/Yearbook
This is a laboratory course for instruction in and application of production unique to yearbook publication. The ultimate goal of the students involved is the actual production of the Northside High School yearbook. The curriculum includes instruction and practice in layout and design, copy writing, proofing, revising, and advertising. A major emphasis of the course is organization and the efficient use of time in order to meet deadlines and budget demands. Application must be made to the yearbook advisor.
 
Speech Communications
Students learn to enhance and enrich their formal and informal oral communication skills through the study of the communication process, interpersonal relationships, public speaking, debate, parliamentary procedure, and the performing arts.

INTERDEPARTMENTAL STUDIES

 

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

French I
This course is an introduction to the French language and culture. The student will develop proficiency in the four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The student will learn to appreciate the diverse cultures of the French-speaking world.
French II/ III /IV
These courses are a continuation of French I, with emphasis on proficiency in using more complex language structures in communication.
Japanese I/II
This course introduces the Japanese Language, emphasizing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Students learn greetings and salutations as well as basic phrases, interrogatories, and responses. The second course continues with more advanced speaking, listening, reading, and writing opportunities for students.
Spanish I
Introduces the Spanish language; emphasizes listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Covers how to greet and take leave of someone, to ask and respond to basic questions, to speak and read within a range of carefully selected topics and to develop an understanding of Spanish Culture.
 
Spanish II/ III /IV
Enhances level-one skills in Spanish and provides opportunities to develop listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Provides continued practice in how to greet and take leave of someone, to ask and respond to basic questions, to speak and read within a range of carefully selected topics and to increase understanding of Spanish culture.

MATHEMATICS

Concepts of Probability and Statistics
A laboratory course designed for ninth and tenth grade students. The course is intended for students who have not taken or completed pre-algebra.
 
Concepts of Problem Solving
A laboratory course designed to introduce algebraic and geometric concepts emphasizing a hands-on approach. Successful completion of both Concepts of Problem Solving and Concepts of Algebra meets the algebra requirement for high school graduation.
 
Concepts of Algebra
A laboratory course designed to introduce algebraic and geometric concepts emphasizing a hands-on approach. Successful completion of both Concepts of Problem Solving and Concepts of Algebra meets the algebra requirement for high school graduation.
 
Mathematical Money Management
This course serves as a math credit for the Technology/Career Preparatory Diploma and an elective credit for the College Preparatory Diploma. The course covers personal finance such as savings, checking accounts, interest, investments, insurance, finance, and consumer mathematics.
 
Algebra I
Introduces algebraic concepts; emphasizes the theory and application of variables, graphing, linear equations and inequalities and quadratics, solving problems using quadratic equations, calculators and computers.
 
Algebra IA /Algebra IB
These courses are designed to introduce algebraic concepts. Both courses must be taken to satisfy the Algebra I credit. Teacher recommendation and test scores will determine whether students will take the one unit or two-unit course.
 
Informal Geometry

Provides a visual approach to conceptualizing. Uses informal logical reasoning processes including deductive and inductive reasoning, synthetic, coordinate and transformational approaches to study congruence, similarity, parallelism, symmetry and perpendicularity and algebraic techniques to solve problems involving perimeter, area and volume.

 
Euclidean Geometry
Provides a visual approach to conceptualizing. Uses informal and formal logical reasoning processes including deductive and inductive reasoning, synthetic, coordinate and transformational approaches to study congruence, similarity, parallelism, symmetry and perpendicularity and algebraic techniques to solve problems involving perimeter, area and volume.
 
Algebra II
This course emphasizes polynomial, exponential and logarithmic functions and the extension of number to irrational and complex numbers. The course covers in depth graphing, systems of linear equations and inequalities and quadratics. It also introduces probability, statistics, sequences and series.
 
Algebra III
Algebra III is a college-prep course for students who have passed Algebra II and Geometry but have not taken Advanced Algebra and Trigonometry. Realistic problem solving in concrete situations is emphasized. Algebraic and geometric topics are approached using numerical methods and appropriate technology.
 
Advanced Algebra/Trigonometry
This course seeks to prepare students for college math and for calculus with a combination of algebra, trigonometry, elementary analysis, and analytical geometry. Emphasis is on circular functions, triangle trigonometry, conic sections, sequences and series, complex numbers and vectors.
 
AP Statistics
AP Statistics introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. AP Statistics has four themes: exploring data (observing patterns and departures from patterns), planning a study (deciding what and how to measure), anticipating patterns (producing models using probability and simulation), and statistical inference (confirming models).
 
Analysis
Analysis is an advanced version of Advanced Algebra & Trigonometry.
 
Calculus
Students taking this course should be adequately prepared to study elementary functions, limits and continuity, and differential and integral calculus.
 
AP Calculus
Students need to have a thorough knowledge of college preparatory mathematics, including algebra, axiomatic geometry, trigonometry and analytic geometry, including rectangular and polar coordinates, equiations and graphs, lines and conics. Students taking this course should be adequately prepared to study elementary functions, limits and continuity, and differential and integral calculus. The use of the graphing calculator is a required part of the course. Students enrolled in this course are expected to take the Advanced Placement examination in Calculus AB.

SCIENCE

Biology [Regular and Honors]
Biology is a course designed to acquaint the student to the organization of living systems, cell theory, diversity of living systems, interaction of living systems and the environment, structure and function relationships, and the development of living systems and their change through time.
 
AP Biology
Advanced concepts in biology and biology from an advanced standpoint, with extensive laboratory work. Year-long course.
 
Science Olympiad
This course is for members of the Science Olympiad Team. Students work on competition areas, plus study skills, laboratory process skills, and specific science content related to their areas of competition. The course may be taken only once. Calculator needed.
 
Physical Science [Regular and Honors]
Physical Science is a survey course covering topics in both chemistry and physics. Students should expect a mathematical treatment of these topics appropriate for their grade and experience. Academy students in engineering or architecture should choose chemistry at the sophomore level. Students in the design technology program should choose physical science. May be taken as an elective prior to chemistry or physics, but not after. Students not selecting physical science should take chemistry and (physics or conceptual physics).
 
Chemistry [Regular and Honors]
Chemistry examines the structure and function of matter and energy changes as they relate to matter. Atomic structure and theory, naming of compounds, chemical reactions, gases and gas laws, acid-base chemistry, as well as equilibrium topics, will be examined
 
AP Chemistry
Students will study topics in chemistry from an in-depth standpoint Extensive laboratory work. Year-long course.
 
Environmental Science
Environment Science involves the study of man’s impact on nature, abiotic and biotic relationships, biomes, quality of life issues, and the symbiosis of living systems. Participation with Oxbow Environmental Center will be encouraged.
 
AP Environmental Science
Topics in environmental studies and research. Year-long course.
 
Astronomy
Astronomy examines the structure of the universe, star formation, planetary systems, geology and meteorology as applied to planetary systems, and theories of the origins and fate of the universe. Night observations will be encouraged as well as partnership with the Coca-Cola Space Science Center.
 
Physics
Topics in energy changes, mechanics, motion, light, sound, energy, and electricity. Extensive laboratory work.
 
Conceptual Physics
Topics in energy changes, mechanics, motion, light, sound, energy, and electricity, but from a less mathematical standpoint. Extensive laboratory work.
 
AP Physics
Topics in Physics from an in-depth standpoint. Extensive laboratory work. Year-long course.
 
Zoology
An in-depth study of the animal kingdom. Field experiences and extensive laboratory work are a component of the course.
 
Genetics
Study of advanced topics in the field of genetics.
 
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Study of human structure and function. Extensive laboratory work.
 
Earth Science
Topics in geology, meteorology, oceanography, and climatology.

 

ENGINEERING AND ENGINEERING DESIGN AND TECHNOLOGY

Introduction to Engineering Design
This course teaches problem-solving skills using a design development process for products. Models of product solutions are created, analyzed and communicated using solid modeling computer design software. Use of most current computer technology with each student assigned a dedicated computer.
 
Technical Writing
Writing as applied to engineering.
 
Digital Electronics
This is a course in applied logic that encompasses the application of electronic circuits and devices. Computer simulation software is used to design and test digital circuitry prior to the actual construction of circuits and devices.
 
Principles of Engineering
A course covering the mathematical and scientific principles utilized in all engineering disciplines. Laboratory work involved.
 
Computer Integrated Manufacturing
The utilization of the computer and computer programming to use solid modeling files to produce prototypes of objects. Laboratory work involved.
 
Architectural and Civil Engineering
Study of principles of engineering as applied to architecture and to civil engineering projects. Laboratory work involved.
 
Aerospace Engineering
Study of topics in aerospace engineering and design. Appropriate laboratory experiences.
 
Engineering Projects
Students will build a number of civil, electronic, and architectural projects.
 
Engineering Design and Development
Teams of students will select, design, and prototype an engineering or architectural project of their choosing.
 
Biotechnical Engineering
Biotechnical engineering is a broad and increasingly complex discipline focused on the use of living organisms or their products to benefit mankind. The course addresses bioethics, DNA manipulation, pathogens and immunology, plant biotechnology and hydroponics, medical biotechnology, and the future of biotechnical engineering. The course entails extensive Autodesk Inventor work and practical laboratory activities.

 

SOCIAL STUDIES

Citizenship
Focuses on basic concepts and principles of the American political system. Covers the structure and function of the American system of government, the roles and responsibilities of citizen participation in the political process, and the relationship of the individual to the law and legal system. Stresses critical analysis of public issues. Integrates and reinforces social studies skills.
 
United States History
Investigates the United States , its people, institutions and heritage. Emphasizes political, cultural and social issues, the role of the United States as a world leader and the issues confronting the United States today.
 
AP United States History
This American History course goes beyond the regular US History course in that students are expected to evaluate patterns and changes in the U.S.; analyze how citizen participation influenced patterns and changes in historical, political and economic areas; interpret and evaluate how diversity and interdependence necessitated growth in the U.S.; and interpret and evaluate U.S. involvement in our global society. Students take a comprehensive exam from College Board to ascertain whether they will receive college credit for this course.
 
World History
This course offers students an overview of the entire history of humankind, with emphasis being placed on events from the Renaissance period to the present. The major focus is on the study of significant people, events, and issues from the earliest times to the present. Traditional historical points of reference in world history are identified as students analyze important events and issues in western civilization as well as in civilizations in other parts of the world.
 
World History [Honors]
Honors World History is a survey course that satisfies graduation requirements and includes the basic content covered in the regular World History course. The course includes considerable enrichment including independent readings, research, and reports.
 
World Geography
This course is designed to teach students about the major physical features and cultural regions of the world. Areas include Latin America , Europe , the former USSR , Asia , Oceania , North Africa , the Middle East , Sub-Saharan Africa, and North America . Aspects of the modern world will be the primary focus.
 
United States Military History
 
 
Comparative Religions
The five major religions practiced in the world today will be studied, with the purpose of finding the similarities as well as the differences. History and philosophy will be discussed, with primary source documents used to gain a better understanding of the beliefs held by people following the various religions. The relation of the religions to culture and politics will also be addressed.
 
Current Issues/Contemporary History
The emphasis of the course is news issues facing the nation and the world, with the purpose to understand the event in relation to events that have happened in the last forty years. To understand much of what is going on in the various regions of the world, some knowledge of contemporary history is necessary. This course looks to give students the background to look at events facing us now.
 
Economics and Government
This course provides opportunities for students to study basic principles concerning production, consumption, and distribution of goods and services. Content builds an understanding of the essential components and benefits of the free enterprise system. Students study such concepts as scarcity, economic interdependence, the market system, prices, economic stability, and governmental activity. They examine the role of government in the American economic system and explore selected aspects of international economic systems. Students are provided opportunities to acquire competencies and knowledge of practical economic functions.
 
Sociology
This junior or senior course is a survey of the structure and processes of human social behavior. Concepts include the history and nature of sociology, culture, socialization, communications and cultural development and change. Content may vary depending on current finds in the field and interest of the students, but concepts will remain the same. Some topics will be the impact of media on groups, how science and technology influences behavior, types of groups we belong to and how we interact between groups.
 
Psychology
This junior or senior course introduces the student to the explanation of how we perceive, learn, remember, solve problems, communicate, feel and relate to other people, methods, and theories of psychologists are applied to analyzing human behavior. Content will include such topics as theories of human development, personality, motivation, and learning. The course is organized so that students will develop critical attitudes toward superficial generalizations about human behavior, and to achieve a better understanding of human behavior in general.
 
AP United States Government and Politics
This course will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States . This course includes both the study of general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific examples. It also requires familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. politics. Students will become acquainted with the variety of theoretical perspectives and explanations for various behaviors and outcomes.

FINE ARTS

Symphonic Band I/II/ III /IV
This course is for the most skilled, experienced, and highly motivated brass, woodwind and percussion students at Northside. Students will have an opportunity to study music theory and history, chamber music and perform challenging music that places emphasis on high levels of individual and ensemble achievement. Students will need to audition for this group with the instructor. Students in this band are required to perform at many concerts, school and community related events, and festivals. Students are enrolled for the entire year on an alternate day basis for 1 credit.
 
Concert Band (Intermediate)
This course is for the developing, less experienced brass, woodwind and percussion students at Northside. Students will have opportunities to study basic music theory and history, learn concepts of rhythm and scales, and to perform music that helps to develop the individual music skills necessary for a performer in band. Students in this band will have opportunities to perform concerts, festivals, and other school and community related events. Students will need to audition for this group with the instructor. Students are enrolled for the entire year on an alternate day basis for 1 credit.
 
Jazz Ensemble
This course is for band students interested in learning and playing jazz-oriented music. This class is open to students that are already enrolled in either the Symphony or Concert Band and play saxophone, trumpet, trombone, percussion, bass, guitar or piano. Students will have to be able to read music notation and will need to audition for the instructor in order to enroll. Students in this band will have opportunities to perform at concerts, festivals and other school and community related activities. This class will be offered 2 nd semester on an every day basis for 1 credit.
 
Percussion Ensemble
This course is for the students that have some percussion experience and want to learn techniques on snare drum, timpani and mallets for the Symphony and Concert Bands and the Marching Drumline instruments in order to play with the marching band in the fall. Students interested in this class will have to audition with the instructor. This class will be offered 1st semester on an every day basis for 1 credit.
 
String Orchestra
This course is for students who have experience playing violin, viola, cello and string bass. Students will have the opportunity to study music theory and history, chamber music, and to perform music from the Baroque, Classical, Romantic, Impressionistic, and Contemporary periods. Students in this class are required to perform at concerts, festivals, Freshman Orientation, and other school and community related events. Students must audition for the instructor to be enrolled. This class will be offered both 1 st and 2 nd semester on an alternating basis with other courses so students are enrolled for the entire year.
 
Music Appreciation or Music Theory
The Music Appreciation course covers music through history and cultures. Listening and understanding music from the humanities approach is emphasized; various social, political and ethnic diversity issues are explored. Some computer use will be necessary. The Music Theory course is designed for those students that want to learn about the construction of scales, rhythms, harmonies, chord progressions, 4-part writing, composition, analysis and arranging of music for various mediums. This course would help a student interested in studying music in college or someone who already has developed some performing skills in a school music program.
 
Intermediate Women’s Chorus
This course is designed to build skills in choral singing. This class participates with all charal students as a Mixed Choir at Performance Festival and performs with all choral students at the Winter and Spring Concerts. This class is for the choral student who enjoys singing and wants to improve their choral skills. The focus is on sight-reading, diction, and choral skills needed at the high school level. It is recommended that the student sign up for both semesters in chorus so that continuous learning and participation in the choir programs can be achieved. Participation in local and national festivals is available to these students.
 
Advanced Women’s Chorus
This course is designed for the more advanced choral student who has met the requirements in Intermediate Women’s Chorus. An audition or teacher recommendation is required and mastered skills in sight-reading are necessary. This chorus features students in the Northside Ensemble, All-State Chorus, All-District Honors Chorus, Governor’s Honors Program, and Literary Meet competitions. Students participate on the advanced level in Performance Evaluation. Participation in local and national festivals is available to these students.
 
Men’s Chorus
This course is designed for the male student that loves to sing. Many students participate in the Northside Ensemble, All-State Chorus, All-District Honors Chorus, Governor’s Honor Program, and Literary Meet competitions. The Men’s Chorus participates in the Performance Evaluation and joins the women signers in a mixed choir performance as well. Participation in local and national festivals is available to these students.
 
Guitar
This is an elective course offering beginning instruction on the guitar. It covers open chords, power chords, moveable chords, accompaniment techniques and a variety of playing techniques and styles including both the pickstyle and fingerstyle approaches to the guitar. The course also includes music fundamentals, theory, songs, performing, listening composition, improvising, analyzing and learning how to read standard music notation and tablature.
 
Design/Drawing and Painting I
A comprehensive foundation course with emphasis on problems related to the elements and principles of design through the exploration of a variety of drawing and painting media and techniques. Critical analysis skills are developed through the study and response to student work and those of artists of different historical styles and periods.
 
Drawing and Painting II
This course further explores drawing and painting media and techniques while it reinforces an understanding of the design elements and principles. Solutions to problems are examined through student works and those of other artists.
 
Drawing and Painting III
This course is independent studio courses consisting of advanced studies in drawing and painting. Students are required to complete a specific number of works each nine weeks and to keep a sketchbook and a portfolio containing sketches/examples of finished quality art work which reflects a variety of styles, media, and content. The concept and development of a personal style is also emphasized. Analysis of works of art is taught through studies of periods and movements in art history.
 
Printmaking I/II and Sculpture I/II
This course introduces a variety of printmaking techniques using processes such as relief printing (monoprint, collograph, linoprint), intaglio processes (etching and engraving) and serigraphy (silkscreen and stencils). The design and production of relief sculpture and three-dimensional form are introduced. These include additive, subtractive and modeling methods. Traditional and non-traditional materials for sculpted works and their sculptors are explored. Computer design and photography skills may be incorporated as an independent study.
 
Ceramics I/II and Fibers I/II
This course introduces the characteristics of clay and design in clay using various techniques of hand-building construction and surface decoration. The formulation of basic glazes, glaze application, kiln firing, and an introduction to wheel throwing are incorporated. Many mixed media techniques will be explored.
 
Preparing a Portfolio/AP Studio Art
This is a year-long course in which students will prepare a 2D or 3D portfolio of personal work. Individual styles and techniques will be focused upon, and a basic theme or concept underlying your work will be developed. With a satisfactory grade from the slides made of your work sent to the SAT Board, you can obtain college credit for this class.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Personal Fitness/Health
Provides instruction in methods to attain a healthy level of physical fitness. Covers how to develop a lifetime fitness program based on a personal fitness assessment and stresses strength, muscular endurance, flexibility, body composition and cardiovascular endurance. Includes fitness principles, nutrition, fad diets, weight control, stress management, adherence strategies and consumer information; promotes self-awareness and responsibility for fitness. Provide knowledge of the body physically, socially, mentally, emotionally, and spiritually. The course includes education concerning alcohol, tobacco and other drugs, disease prevention, family living, growth and development, mental health, nutrition, personal health and safety.
 
General Physical Education I/II/ III /IV
Focuses on any combination of variety of team sports, lifetime sports, track and field events, outdoor education experiences, rhythmics/dance, recreational games, gymnastics and self-defense. Provides basic methods to attain a healthy and active lifestyle.
 
Aerobics (Girls only)
Aerobic physical activities are considered to be the most effective of all activities in developing cardiovascular fitness. This class uses aerobic exercise such as step aerobics, Tae Bo and jogging as well as strength training and flexibility to increase the overall physical fitness of each student.
 
Physical Conditioning I/II/ III /IV
This course places emphasis on muscle tone and strength development along with other health related components through the use of weights, jogging/walking, and conditioning exercises/drills.

TECHNOLOGY AND CAREER EDUCATION

Computer Applications/High School Success
An essential course for career and/or college preparation! Computer Applications teaches the student how to use word processing, spreadsheet, database, and presentation applications using an integrated computer software package. This course also includes information covered in the book, 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens . Students will develop techniques that will help them become a more successful student. This course is also required for the Tech Prep Seal in all Technology/Career program areas.
 
Business Document Processing
This course focuses on the development of skills required to produce letters, research papers, reports, newsletters, flyers, brochures, advertising materials and other publications using a project-based approach, word processing and desktop publishing software. Co-curricular activities of the Future Business Leaders of America are incorporated in the course.
 
Principles of Accounting I
Do you know how to make sure your checking account is correct? If not, take Accounting I today! Accounting I emphasizes the principles of basic accounting including methods of recording business transactions, the preparation and interpretation of financial statements, bank reconciliation, and much more. Knowing the basic principles of accounting will enable you to apply them to your everyday finances and to have a basic understanding of the financial end of businesses. Manual and computerized accounting methods are taught. Co-curricular activities of the Future Business Leaders of America are incorporated in the course.
 
Communications for Business
This course utilizes a project-based approach to encourage mastery of the oral and written communication skills essential for interacting effectively with people in the workplace and in society. International communication is constantly evolving and an appreciation and understanding of international communication strategies is critical to one’s future success. Of equal importance is the development of technology and processing skills critical for acquiring, interpreting, evaluating, and managing information. Co-curricular activities of the Future Business Leaders of America are incorporated in the course.
 
Business Law
Business Law is designed to develop a basic knowledge of the legal system and how business law impacts commerce domestically and internationally. Areas of study include sources of the law and structure of the court system; ethics and the law; procedural law and substantive law; contract law, law of sales and consumer law; agency law and employment law; personal property and real property; commercial paper, insurance, secured transactions and bankruptcy; wills and trusts; impact of technology; and environmental law and energy regulation. Co-curricular activities of the Future Business Leaders of America are incorporated in the course.
 
Business Management
Business Management helps students understand various management theories, basic management functions and their interrelationships, and the organization and competitive niche of a business. This course will help students build a strong knowledge base and develop management skills as they study the functions of management; organizational structures; human resources management; financial management; operations management; general management skills; marketing/competitive advantage; ethics; and government regulations and community involvement. Mastery of these standards through project-based activities will help prepare students with a competitive edge for the global marketplace. Co-curricular activities of the Future Business Leaders of America are incorporated in the course.
 
Entrepreneurship
Entrepreneurship focuses on recognizing a business opportunity, starting a business based on the recognized opportunity, and operating and maintaining that business. Preparation of a business plan allows students to apply the functional areas of business—accounting, finance, marketing, and management—and the legal and economic environments in which a new venture operates to an idea for a new business venture. Co-curricular activities of DECA and FBLA are incorporated in the course.
 
Finance
Using project-based instruction, students are introduced to the foundations of finance and the role finance, credit, savings, investments, and estate planning play in business. Various technological tools will be used to assist in modeling financial decisions. Business partnerships with financial service institutions, guest speakers, field trips, and work-based learning activities can be incorporated in this course. Co-curricular activities of the Future Business Leaders of America are incorporated in the course.
 
Multimedia Presentations & Communication Technology
This course emphasizes the development of skills required for improved productivity in producing and editing electronic communications and professional business presentations incorporating multimedia. Students will create, format, illustrate, design, and print business presentations and utilize communication software applications to manage contacts, send/receive email, organize notes and tasks, and use calendar tools. Co-curricular activities of the Future Business Leaders of America are incorporated in the course.
 
Marketing Principles
This course is designed to provide an orientation to the field of marketing while focusing on marketing as the cornerstone component of success in the free marketing economy. Students will learn how to plan for product and service distribution, effective pricing and sales strategies, risk management and advertising and promotion skills. Students will also learn how to apply these basic skills to their potential career choice in any field. Co-curricular activities of DECA, an Association of Marketing Students, are incorporated into this course. This course is a prerequisite for all other marketing courses, including the Work Based Learning opportunity.
 
Fashion Marketing Sales and Promotion

This course focuses on the key responsibilities required in a successful retail environment. Students develop skills in pricing, visual merchandising, advertising, special promotions and events, professional sales, quality customer service, successful retail business operations and career opportunities within the industry. Co-curricular activities of DECA, an Association of Marketing Students, are an integral part of this course.

 
Sports and Entertainment Marketing
This course provides students an introduction to the marketing and management functions applied to all levels within the sports and entertainment industry, including professional and amateur sporting events, theaters, concerts amusement parks and other entertainment venues. This course also covers the equipment and supplies required for such purposes, products and services related to hobbies or cultural events, and businesses primarily engaged in satisfying the desire to make productive or enjoyable use of leisure time. Co-curricular activities of DECA, an Association of Marketing Students, are incorporated into this course.
 
Retail Marketing
This course introduces the critical aspects of successful retailing. It includes an in depth study of the characteristics of the changes in the current marketplace by retailers. Students will explore the coordination of the functions of marketing, distribution, finance, promotion, product planning, risk management, sales and customer service. The National Retail Federation’s Customer Sales and Service certification program is also an integral portion of this course. A review of various career opportunities is also discussed. Co-curricular activities of DECA, an Association of Marketing Students, are an integral part of this course.
 
Advanced Marketing III and IV (Co-op Class; 2 credits, year-long course)
This course allows Marketing Education Seniors only to address how the coordination of business activities provides goods and services to meet the needs and wants of customers. Students assume a managerial perspective in applying economic principles, analyzing operational needs, examining distribution and financial alternatives, managing marketing information, pricing products and services, developing product/service planning strategies, promoting products and services, purchasing and professional sales. Real world projects are utilized to reinforce course content. Co-curricular activities of DECA, an Association of Marketing Students, are an integral part of this course.
 
Marketing Co-op/Internship VII /VIII (Year-long Course; 2 credits)
This course provides Marketing Education Seniors only a structured program connecting school-based and work-based learning this providing a smooth transition into the work force and/or postsecondary education. This educational experience provides a rigorous and relevant core curriculum with an occupational specialty and includes a formal written educational and work-based learning agreement defining specific academic and workplace skills to be mastered. Course requires supervision by the Marketing Coordinator, training plans, training agreements and on-the-job projects jointly evaluated by the employer and the instructor. Co-op students are required to have an approved employment position that receives financial compensation. Co-curricular activities of DECA, an Association of Marketing Students, are an integral part of this course.

 

DRAFTING AND DESIGN TECHNOLOGY

Introduction to Engineering Drawing A & B (Year 1)
Students are to enroll for both courses for the year. This course introduces engineering drawing and design. Emphasis is placed on safety, the correct use of tools and equipment, drafting media, sketching, lettering, alphabet of lines, geometric construction, fundamentals of CAD and multiview drawings.
 
Engineering Concepts and Drawings A & B
In this set of courses, students learn to illustrate more complex objects using the Computer-Aided Drafting (CAD) system and develop skills in dimensioning, tolerance, pictorials, sections, auxiliary views, and intersection and developments.
 
Architectural Drawing and Design IA & IB
This set of courses introduces students to the basic terminology, concepts, and principles of Architectural Design. Emphasis is placed on house designs, floor plans, roof designs, elevations, sections and details and foundations.
 
Architectural Drawing and Design IIA & IIB
This set of courses helps the student develop advanced skills in architectural design. Students will work on individualized projects.

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES

Foundations of Family and Consumer Sciences
Among the rallying cries in America today are these: We must strengthen family values; we all need to learn personal and financial responsibility; we all must do our part in serving our communities. This foundation course helps students to develop the core knowledge and skills needed to answer those rallying cries. Emphasis is on leadership, human development, family and parenting education, consumer economics and resource management, housing and living environments, nutrition and foods, textiles and apparel, and career preparation. Co-curricular activities of FCCLA are incorporated into this course.
 
Foundations of Family and Consumer Sciences II
This course continues the study of the individual, the family, and the community. Topics will include but are not limited to: planning how to manage resources to meet individual and family wants and needs, consumer decisions about food, clothing, shelter, care-giving, health care, and transportation for individual and families, and relationship of technology to family and consumer resources. Co-curricular activities of FCCLA are incorporated into this course.
 
Child Development and Parenting
This course addresses issues of childcare and development, with emphasis on guiding physical, intellectual, social, psychological, cultural, and moral development throughout childhood. The course helps prepare students who are interested in early childhood education, social services and healthcare fields. Co-curricular activities of FCCLA are incorporated into this course.
 
Introduction to Interior Design
Interior Design includes classroom instruction and laboratory experience. It is designed to prepare students to understand the influences affecting the interior design industry today, and to become aware of the array of career opportunities in the field. Co-curricular activities of FCCLA are incorporated into this course.
 
 

HEALTH AND MEDICAL OCCUPATIONS 

Introduction to Healthcare Science Technology Education
Students wishing to pursue a career in the Healthcare Industry will receive initial exposure to healthcare science skills and attitudes applicable to healthcare including the concepts of health, wellness, and preventive care. Medical terminology, introduction to community safety, life processes and change, introduction to anatomy and physiology, and cultural diversity and effective communication are emphasized, as well as, the ethical and legal responsibilities of today’s healthcare provider. This course is a prerequisite for other healthcare courses. Co-curricular activities of HOSA are incorporated into this course.
 
Applications to Healthcare Science Technology Education A and B
Students are to enroll for both courses for 2 credits. These second-year applications courses are designed to provide an overall framework of basic skills of vital signs, first aid, CPR and human body systems utilized in the provision of direct client care. The core knowledge and skills developed are usually associated with the therapeutic and diagnostic healthcare career pathways noted nationally. Co-curricular activities of HOSA are incorporated into this course.
 
Health Occupations Technology IIIA & IIIB

Students are to enroll for both courses for 2 credits. The courses will enhance skills developed in the introduction and applications courses; it offers a clinical practicum in a health care setting and prepares students to assist in care of patients/clients under the direction of health professionals. Theory content includes advanced medical terminology, pathology, microbiology and gerontology. The courses utilize classroom, laboratory and clinic settings. Co-curricular activities of HOSA are incorporated into this course.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY

Information Technology Foundations
This course is a prerequisite for all other IT courses. Students learn the how and why of computer hardware components. In this course, students will learn the details of building a computer and maintaining the hardware components. Co-curricular activities of the Future Business Leaders of America are incorporated in the course.
 
Networking A and B (CISCO)
Students in this course develop skills necessary for the planning, installation, and management of networks that enable computers to communicate both locally and globally using CISCO networking instruction. These courses help prepare students for the Net+ certification. Additionally, students will take the CISCO exams during each course. Completion of both courses will allow students to complete CISCO certification at Columbus Technical College in one additional year.
 
AP Computer Science AB (Year-long Course)
Computer Science AB emphasizes object-oriented programming methodology with an emphasis on problem solving and algorithm development. It also includes an extensive study of data structures and abstraction.
 
Programming and Systems Management/C++
Welcome to the language of gaming software. This course offers an introduction to the C++ programming language. Students will learn to analyze, design, code, debug, test, and deploy programs using the C++ programming language. C++ is the language that runs your gaming software.
 
Web Page Design I
Students will design, upload, and provide maintenance of web pages and corresponding links. Students will explore Internet commerce. Co-curricular activities of the Future Business Leaders of America are incorporated in the course.
 
 

JROTC

Leadership Education and Training IA
This course includes classroom and laboratory instruction in the history, customs, traditions and purpose of Army JROTC. The course stresses the responsibilities and components of good citizenship and how today’s youth can become contributing members of the school and local communities. It contains the development of basic leadership skills to include leadership principles, values and attributes.
 
Leadership Education and Training IB
This course includes classroom and laboratory instruction expanding on the communication skills and conflict management and resolution curriculum taught in LET IA. Emphasis is placed on writing skills and oral communications techniques. Financial planning is introduced. Physical fitness, diet, nutrition, healthy lifestyles and awareness of substance abuse and prevention and basic first aid measures are additional content areas. An overview of geography and the globe are incorporated.
 
Leadership Education and Training IIA
This course includes classroom instruction and laboratory instruction expanding on skills taught in the first year. This course introduces equal opportunity and sexual harassment. It provides instruction on leadership styles and practical time to exercise leadership theories as well as the basic principles of management. It provides self assessments that help students determine their skill sets and opportunities to teach using accepted principles and methods of instruction.
 
Leadership Education and Training IIB
This course emphasizes community projects to assist in drug prevention efforts, includes dietary guidelines and fitness and introduces map-reading skills. It discusses the significant events that helped shape and develop the Constitution and government and teaches the role of political parties in the election process. Successful completion of at least three units of credit in the Army JROTC program will qualify the student for advanced placement in a college ROTC program or accelerated promotion in the military service.
 
Leadership Education and Training IIIA
This course allows cadets to investigate the interrelationships of the services while it continues to build their leadership development and decision-making skills. It includes negotiation skills and management principles. It emphasizes staff procedures and provides opportunities to handle various leadership situations. The research, identification, planning, and execution of service learning activities are included.
 
Leadership Education and Training IIIB
This course gives cadets the opportunity to apply basic concepts of career exploration strategies and planning. Instructs on the creation of career portfolios and plans for college or work. Financial management principles including investing, credit, and insurance are studied in depth. Skills for orienteering and/or land navigation are developed. Includes studies in the federal judicial system and how historical events shaped social systems.
 
Leadership Education and Training IVA
This course includes classroom instruction and laboratory instruction expanding on the skills taught in LET I- III . It focuses on creating a positive leadership situation, negotiating, decision-making, problem solving, planning, team development, project management, and mentoring. It provides the opportunity to demonstrate leadership potential in an assigned command or staff position within the cadet battalion organization.
 
Leadership Education and Training IVB
This course includes classroom instruction and laboratory instruction expanding on the skills taught in LET I- III . It includes requirements for the practical application of leadership duties. The interactions between groups of people and how they affect the area’s cultural, economic, and political characteristics are discussed. Concepts of democracy and freedom and how to influence local governments are discussed. It provides the opportunity to demonstrate leadership potential in an assigned command or staff position within the cadet battalion organization.
 
Concepts of Applied Mechanical Engineering
Students interested in taking this course at Jordan will need to provide their own transportation to the school and back for this one-block course. It will be scheduled either first or last block. This course will serve as an elective for anyone interested in applied engineering.