(1 credit) Provides middle school students a strong foundation in grammar and the writing process. It emphasizes simple but useful composition and language mechanics strategies along with multiple opportunities for modeling practical, real-world writing situations that will enable students to improve their written communication skills quickly. Writing labs where students compose extended essays and other genres with an emphasis on non-fiction.
Through a variety of grade appropriate reading selections, students will develop a clear understanding of key literary genres and their distinguishing characteristics. These lessons and accompanying assignments, which allow students to compose their own literary pieces, will lay the groundwork for interpreting and appreciating literature in future courses. (32 lessons and submissions, 4 exams, 7 labs)
(1 credit) Surveys American authors and the historical development of literature in America. The course illustrates how the events in history and the cultural heritage of the times influenced the work of authors. The ability to analyze literary works is stressed. Topics include Puritanism, Deism, Neoclassicism, Romanticism, Transcendentalism, Realism, and Naturalism. (36 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
English 7
English Literature/English IV *
Integrates the study of writing and literature through the examination of a variety of genres. Students will identify the elements of composition in the reading selections to understand their function and effect on the reader. Practice is provided in narrative and expository writing. Topics include comparison and contrast, persuasive, and cause and effect essays, as well as descriptive and figurative language. Lessons are supplemented with vocabulary development, grammar, and syntax exercises, along with an introduction to verbal phrases and research tools. (36 lessons and submissions, 8 labs, 4 exams)
(1 credit) Studies British literature in order of the historical time periods and shows the influence of cultural and historical change on the authors’ themes. Composition skills are expanded with an emphasis on analyzing literary works. Topics include Chaucer and the Middle Ages, Shakespeare, the Cavalier Poets, and the Romantic, Victorian and Modern eras. (34 lessons and submissions, 4 exams) *Requires Shakespeare's Henry V
English 8
British Literature/English IV
Extends the skills developed in English 7 through detailed study of parts of sentences and paragraphs to understand their importance to good writing. Students will also acquire study skills such as time management and test-taking strategies. Other topics include punctuation, word choice, syntax, varying sentence structure, subordination and coordination, detail and elaboration, effective use of reference materials, and proofreading. (36 lessons and submissions, 9 labs, 4 exams)
(1 credit) A new edition of English Literature/English. It provides a comprehensive look at the evolution of British literature from the Anglo-Saxon period through the Modern Age. The course emphasizes the cultural and historical elements that shape literary movements. Twenty-six of the thirty-four lessons focus on literary analysis. Writing lessons focus on real-world documents, analytical essays, and research papers. Language lessons focus on usage, mechanics, and critical thinking. All course readings and literary texts are provided online. (34 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
English I
World Literature *
(1 credit) Introduces the elements of writing demonstrated in poems, short stories, plays, and essays. Grammar skills are enhanced by the study of sentence structure and style and by student composition of paragraphs and short essays. Topics include narration, exposition, description, argumentation, punctuation, usage, spelling, and sentence and paragraph structure. (36 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(1 credit) Provides the student with a selection of the world's best and most well-known literature. Lesson notes supplement reading assignments and emphasize common themes found across cultures and historical timelines. Submissions use a combination of objective multiple choice and short answer questions, as well as subjective questions that require students to support their opinions. Finally, two full-length paper assignments ask students to apply their knowledge in essay form. (23 lessons and submissions, 4 exams) *Textbook Required
English II
Structure of Writing
(1 credit) Focuses on using personal experiences, opinions, and interests as a foundation for writing. Skills acquired in English I are reinforced and polished. Literary models are provided to demonstrate paragraph unity and a more sophisticated word choice. A research paper is required for completion of course. Topics include grammar, sentence and paragraph structure, organizing compositions, and the research paper. (36 lessons and submissions, 4 exams, 1 paper)
(½ credit) Focuses on the fundamentals of grammar and usage to strengthen writing skills. Journal assignments and expository and narrative writing are required. Topics include vocabulary; spelling; coordination and subordination; simple, compound, and complex sentences; and the construction of clearly written paragraphs and essays. (18 lessons and submissions, 2 exams)
Modern and Classical Languages
Spanish I
Spanish II
(1 credit) This initial entry in a planned program of multi-levels of languages, introduces a wide variety of new instructional features to our system. Through the study of Spanish I, students will have an opportunity to learn to speak the language and to experience the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. The primary focus of the course is to foster skills that will enable students to interact in daily life with other Spanish speakers and to communicate when traveling to Spanish-speaking regions.
Each lesson in Spanish I has interactive quizzes and games, and the entire course has audio support with over 1500 audio files. Students will be able to practice and test themselves as they read each lesson before taking the submission. The scope of this course will include mastery of the present tense and essential rules grammar, along with the development of an extensive vocabulary for use in both oral and written expression.
For this course, students and teachers will need computers with either audio speakers or headphones. (31 lessons and submissions, 4 exams, 3 labs)
(1 credit) Students are taken beyond the introduction to the Spanish language and culture found in Spanish I and their knowledge of grammar and vocabulary extended. It begins with a quick review of basic vocabulary and grammar. Subsequent lessons are organized thematically to build vocabulary common to events and activities encountered in daily life. Students will learn the preterite and imperfect tenses and when to use each, as well as the future and progressive tenses. Also studied are the proper use of object pronouns, appropriate word endings to indicate gender and size, and a variety of conventions found in Spanish. A cultural component is tied into each lesson's theme. Frequent opportunities to complete practice exercises offer formative assessments of students' grasp of the material. Audio clips of speakers from various Spanish-speaking regions allow students to hear and model pronunciation of new vocabulary and conversations. Interactive quizzes and activities, along with engaging labs, support and extend the student's mastery of Spanish. (27 lessons and submissions, 4 exams, 3 labs)
Mathematics
Math 6
Algebra I
(1 credit) Explores basic math concepts and their applications. Students will increase their skill with decimals, fractions, percents, and ratios. The course provides tools for problem solving and includes an introduction to algebra and geometry. Among the topics studied are discrete math and probability, surface area, equations, statistics, and data analysis. (36 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(1 credit) Represents a comprehensive study of all of the concepts of Algebra I required to meet state academic standards. With multiple opportunities for practice and review, students will easily master skills ranging from variables, linear equations, quadratic equations, function notation, and exponential functions. Homework assignments in addition to self-check practice problems found throughout each lesson reinforce the carefully guided instruction of the course. Enrichment activities invite students to explore connections between the concepts they have just learned and more advanced mathematical concepts or real-world applications. Math games and interactive graphs that students can manipulate to solve problems engage students in the learning process and strengthen their understanding of algebraic theory.
(30 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
Math 7
Algebra I, Part I *
(1 credit) Builds on material learned in earlier grades, including fractions, decimals, and percentages and introduces students to concepts students will continue to use throughout their study of mathematics. Among these are surface area, volume, and probability. Real-world applications facilitate understanding, and students are provided multiple opportunities to master these skills through practice problems within lessons, homework drills, and graded assignments within the STARS system. (36 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(1 credit) Covers the material of the first semester of Algebra I over a full year (or a 35-lesson) time frame. This course is intended to assist those students who require additional time or practice to grasp algebraic concepts. (16 lessons and submissions, 4 exams) *Textbook Required
Consumer/Business Math
Algebra I, Part 2 *
(1 credit) Focuses on reviewing and applying arithmetic skills utilized at home and in business. Students learn how to budget, spend, invest, and make everyday financial decisions. Topics include budgeting, computing income and property taxes, investing in the stock market, finding interest rates, analyzing statistics, and balancing financial accounts. (33 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(1 credit) Covers the material of the second semester of Algebra I over a full year (or a 32-lesson) time frame. This course is intended to assist those students who require additional time or practice to grasp algebraic concepts. (32 lessons and submissions, 4 exams) *Textbook Required
Pre-Algebra
Integrated Math
(1 credit) Sharpens students’ arithmetic skills and illustrates abstract concepts by introducing linear equations, number patterns, the order of operations, linear inequalities, fractions, exponents, and factoring. Some basic components of geometry are discussed. (36 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(1 credit) This course provides an introduction to the concepts of Algebra I and Geometry. It covers linear equations, graphing lines, quadratic equations, function notation, rational expressions and equations, mathematical thinking, points, lines and planes, rays and angles, two column proofs, parallel lines, congruent triangles, inequalities, quadrilaterals, similarity, trigonometric relations, polygons and circles, geometric solids, coordinate geometry, graphing equations, counting and probability, and data analysis.
Precalculus
Geometry
(1 credit) Precalculus is a full-credit course that builds on algebraic concepts to prepare students for calculus. The course begins with a review of basic algebraic concepts and moves into operations with functions. Students will manipulate functions and their graphs. Precalculus also provides a detailed look at trigonometric functions, their graphs, the trigonometric identities, and the unit circle. Finally, students will be introduced to polar coordinates, parametric equations, and limits. (29 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(1 credit) A comprehensive examination of geometric concepts designed to increase student understanding over time. Each lesson provides thorough explanations and builds on prior lessons. Step-by-step instruction and multiple opportunities for self check practice develop skills and confidence in students as they progress through the course. Animations, which allow students to manipulate angles or create shapes, such as triangles, engage students in learning and enhance mastery. Labs extend comprehension by giving students hand-on experiences. (21 lessons and submissions, 4 exams, 2 labs)
Algebra II
(1 credit) Extends the algebraic functions learned in Algebra I by bringing in concepts of linear, quadratic, and simultaneous equations; laws of exponents; progression; binomial theorems; and logarithms. Prerequisite – Successful completion of Algebra I and at least one semester of Geometry (35 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
Science
Middle School Biology
Chemistry
(1 credit) Presents a detailed introduction to life sciences, including ecology and the environment, the basics of the cell, the theory of evolution, kingdoms of life (and viruses), and the human body systems. Students are guided through the scientific concepts and terminology with clear explanations and real-world examples that facilitate mastery. Practice problems and homework assignments reinforce the concepts and provide opportunities to apply new knowledge to personal experience, while labs and other exercises foster critical thinking. (31 lessons and submissions, 6 labs, 4 exams)
(1 credit) Covers chemical theory, descriptive chemistry, and the changes in matter and its properties. Students learn how to classify the different states of matter as well as how atoms and compounds are structured. Additional areas of discussion include chemical energetics, measurements, bonding, stoichiometry, ionization, hydrocarbons, oxidation and reduction. Simple lab experiments are required. (33 lessons and submissions, 14 labs, 4 exams)
Biology
Physics
(1 credit) The 2010 version of high school Biology comprises units on ecology, cells, genetics, diversity of life, and human physiology. Within the units are multiple lessons that allow students to develop a clear understanding of the sometimes complex concepts at the root of life science. Students are kept engaged by a series of regular components such as “A Closer Look,” which adds to the lesson content by correcting common misconceptions, using science to explain mythology, or suggesting other activities and topics for students to consider. “Think About It” sections pose questions to encourage students to reflect on the role of science in their lives and future, and labs offer opportunities for students to have hands-on experience with the concepts presented in previous lessons. Each lesson is complete in and of itself, but the concepts build on each other as the course progresses. Animations and interactive graphic elements keep students actively involved in the learning process. (30 lessons and submissions, 4 exams, 4 labs)
(1 credit) Introduces students to the physics of motion, properties of matter, force, heat, vector, light, and sound. Students learn the history of physics from the discoveries of Galileo and Newton to modern-day physicists. The course focuses more on explanation than calculation and will prepare the student for introductory quantitative physics at the college level. Additional areas of discussion include gases and liquids, atoms, electricity, magnetism, and nuclear physics. (24 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
Physical Science v. 2
Health
(1 credit) The new edition eliminates the need for a separate textbook and provides numerous improvements over version one. In addition to units on physics and chemistry, the natural sciences that deal with non-living energy and matter, Version Two extends the study of inanimate matter to topics in astronomy and geology and broadens the student’s understanding of the states of matter by applying them to weather and atmosphere. Each lesson concludes with a real world application of the lesson content so that students will come away from their study able to explain how that aspect of physical science affects their lives or the world about them. Many lessons provide a Try This side-bar section, with hands-on application of the content. (25 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(½ credit) Teaches human anatomy and physiology and increases student awareness of healthy lifestyle choices and the importance of physical fitness. Topics discussed include nutrition; fitness fundamentals; mental and emotional well-being; the effects of drugs, alcohol, and tobacco; the environment; and public health and infectious diseases, as well as safety, accident prevention, and first aid. (8 lessons and submissions, 2 exams)
Earth Science
(1 credit) Surveys basic physical sciences such as geology, biology, meteorology, oceanography, astronomy, botany, and physics and their impact on the earth and its processes. Students are guided to a better understanding of how the earth and the universe are structured. (34 lessons and submissions, 6 labs, 4 exams)
Social Sciences
Geography: An Introduction
Geography: A Comprehensive Study
(½ credit) Introduces students to basic geographic terms and regions of the world. Within each region, the student will examine various aspects of physical and human geography. Special attention will be paid to understanding how the different regions interact in an increasingly global world. Practice exercises provide opportunities for students to apply these concepts to real life scenarios. (17 lessons and submissions, 2 labs, 2 exams)
(1 credit) This course offering builds upon Geography: An Introduction, which was released during the 2008 term. The comprehensive study expands the lessons in the introductory course with case studies focusing on specific (and current) geography issues around the globe. Like the half-credit introduction, this newest geography course also includes a number of interactive maps as well as animations that enhance student understanding.
Middle School World History
Native American Studies: Historical Perspectives
(1 credit) An engaging, standards-based course offering students an in-depth, but easily understood, view of the human experience from the earliest civilizations through the Age of Enlightenment. Interactive features allow students to apply their mastery of lessons through such activities as customizing maps and designing feudal villages. An audio pronunciation guide will assist students' ability to say and remember the names of unfamiliar people and places. Frequent self-check practice questions and homework assignments within the lessons prepare students for the accompanying submissions, while numerous brief- and extended-writing opportunities encourage students to reflect on new knowledge and to expand their critical thinking skills. (14 lessons and submissions, 2 exams, 9 labs)
(½ credit) Examines the history of Native American people and tribes in North America from pre-Colonial times. The primary objective for this course is to enrich the knowledge and understanding of Native American people from a Native American perspective. For too long, the story of the Native American experience has been told from the viewpoint of the colonizer in American text books. In this course, we confront false images, stereotypes, inaccurate myths and distortions. This course is designed for both Native American and non-Native American students so everyone can better understand human similarities and differences as well as recognize the contributions that Native American people and cultures have made to the world. (18 lessons and submissions, 4 labs, 2 exams)
World History V.1
Native American Studies: Contemporary Perspectives
(1 credit) Provides a thorough overview of the world’s history from pre-historic times to the present. The focus is on major events, including the growth of political powers, social and economic developments, and the rise of civilization. The course identifies the inventions, historical figures, and ideas of the past which influence the present and future. Topics include the ancient world, the development of major religions, the Renaissance and Reformation, and the World Wars. (35 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(½ credit) As a complement to Native American Studies: Historical Perspectives, this course takes a thematic approach to traditions and issues surrounding the Native American experience, including worldviews, spirituality, language, health, socio-economics, art, images in the media, contemporary professionals and organizations, veterans, and modern-day pow- wows. The last lesson expands to examine a global perspective by introducing issues of indigenous people worldwide. (15 lessons and submissions, 4 labs, 2 exams)
World History Before 1815
African American Studies: Historical Perspectives
(½ credit) In this semester-long course, students study human events from the first use of agriculture 15,000 years ago through the end of the French Revolution in 1815. Included are lessons on the ancient civilizations of Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Later lessons examine the great periods of global exploration and expansion, as well as scientific discovery. Also studied are the revolutions in England, America, and France. Another course, World History Since 1815, continues from 1815 to the present. Both of these courses are independent, stand-alone courses which may be taken separately or in sequence. (20 lessons and submissions, 2 exams)
(½ credit) African American Studies is a semester-long course that traces the experiences of Africans in the Americas from their first arrival in 1500 to the present day. In this course, students explore history, politics, and culture. Though the course proceeds in chronological order, the lessons are grouped thematically. Practice questions within the lessons offer students no-fault, periodic checks for understanding. “In Their Own Words” sections provide students interesting reading or audio excerpts from primary sources. Labs afford students additional experiences with original documents and sources by asking them to think creatively in response to writing assignments and other projects. Interactive games, maps, and timelines, along with video clips add high interest in the material. (16 lessons and submissions, 2 exams, 5 labs)
World History Since 1815
Consolidated Government
(½ credit) This semester-long course follows human history from the end of the French Revolution until the present day. Topics covered before the midterm include the Industrial Revolution, the African and Asian colonial experience, the rise of European Nationalism, and the horrors of World War I. In the second half students read about the rise of totalitarian ideologies of Fascism and Communism, World War II, the Cold War, Post-Colonial Africa, the Rise of Asian Economies, and the Global War on Terror. We recommend that students take this course after completing our World History Before 1815 course, but it can be taken as an independent course. For states where a full credit is earned for study of the time period covered in this course, teachers may easily supplement the lessons with special projects and research assignments to meet the requirement for additional instructional time. (19 lessons and submissions, 2 exams)
(½ credit) Provides and overview of the operation and development of federal, state, county and city governments. It examines statute making, diplomacy, labor policies, public finance, and the contrasts between national, state and local levels of government. Topics emphasize the branches of government, the checks and balance system of the national government, the separation of power, and the role of the government in promoting the interests of the people and involving itself in current topics. Other areas of discussion include the Constitution; civil rights and equality; the legislative, judicial and executive branches; the Federal Reserve System, and foreign policy. This one-semester course presents the essentials of government. (8 lessons and submissions, 2 exams)
World History Since 1500
Career Exploration
(1 credit) This year-long course follows human history from the Renaissance at the end of the Middle Ages until the present day. Topics covered in the first semester include the Renaissance, the Enlightenment, the French Revolution, Industrial Revolution, the African and Asian colonial experience, the rise of European Nationalism, and the horrors of World War I. In the second half students read about the rise of totalitarian ideologies of Fascism and Communism, World War II, the Cold War, Post-Colonial Africa, the Rise of Asian Economies, and the Global War on Terror. (25 lessons and submissions, 4 labs, 4 exams)
(½ credit) This semester course provides students opportunities to set personal and career goals while developing employability skills. Students are guided through exercises that teach them about career clusters and paths, educational options after high school, and practical job-seeking strategies such as completing applications, composing effective resumes and cover letters, and navigating the interview process. Students conduct research throughout the course and present their findings written and oral projects. (17 lessons and submissions, 2 exams)
American History
Social Issues
(1 credit) Examines the founding and development of the United States from the start of European exploration and settling of the original colonies to how they grew and became a powerful united nation. Topics covered include the pre-colonial cultures of Indigenous peoples, the arrival and impact of Europeans in North America, the Revolutionary War, Manifest Destiny, the Civil War, the Industrial Revolution, the United States in the 20th Century, and the influence of immigration on American society and culture. Also incorporated are instruction in the development of economics, politics, society, and the culture of America. (23 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(½ credit) Social Issues provides students an opportunity to research and reflect upon the questions and concerns confronting individuals and society today. It requires students to be able to employ higher level thinking skills. Each lesson creates a framework for an objective look at a single contemporary problem and asks students to identify, read, and digest recent literature covering that topic. Students are guided to read critically in order to develop and support an opinion about the issue.
Because the topics studied in this course require some maturity, Social Issues is best suited for juniors and seniors. Teachers are encouraged to study the Note to Teachers and the Table of Contents before enrolling students to determine the appropriateness of the content for their school and students. (16 lessons and submissions, 1 lab, 2 exams)
Social Issues is not recommended for Pre-Assessment or CRAM.
American Government
Art History
(1 credit) Introduces students to a comprehensive survey of the operation and development of federal, state, county and city governments. The course examines all aspects of government: its statute making, diplomacy, labor policies, public finance, and the contrasts between national, state and local levels of government. Topics emphasize the branches of government, the checks and balance system of the national government, the separation of power, and the role of the government in promoting the interests of the people and involving itself in current topics. Other areas of discussion include the Constitution; civil rights and equality; the legislative, judicial and executive branches; the Federal Reserve System, and foreign policy. (24 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(1 credit) Introduces students to the principles required for an analysis and evaluation of art. The first semester of the course offers a survey of developments in art from ancient India, China, and Japan; the Islamic civilization; Egyptian civilization, and Africa. It also examines Western art, beginning with Ancient Greece and ending with the High Renaissance in Western Europe. The second semester identifies major trends and movements in art and architecture since the Northern Renaissance and examines historical events and social movements that contributed to the development of periods, styles, and approaches to art. There are also lessons devoted to the rapid movement toward abstraction which occurred during the 20th century. Throughout the course, students are provided opportunities to analyze and think about art in critical and intelligent ways. (31 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
Economics
Computer Technology: An Introduction
(1 credit) Introduces students to how decisions are made in the four areas of production. Topics include saving, spending, and borrowing; the law of supply and demand, the Federal Reserve System; sources of money supply; and how the government plays a unique role in an open market economy. (20 lessons and submissions, 4 exams)
(1/2 Credit) Computer Technology: An Introduction is a semester-long course that emphasizes project-based learning where students will apply what they have studied to create formatted manuscripts, databases, spreadsheets, and other presentations utilizing a variety of computer tools. Additional units on the history of computers and basic technology concepts, proper and effective use of the Internet and the World Wide Web, and emerging technology and careers provide students with a strong foundation in 21st century skills for other STEM coursework. Students will need access to Microsoft Office programs to complete the assignments.
