English Department
English 12
Grade Level: 12 Course Number: 1160 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Completion of English 11 with passing grade. Students will study British literature with attention to many classic works. They will use organizational skills, audience awareness, and appropriate vocabulary and grammar to plan and deliver an effective oral presentation. Writing will include producing technical, expository, and analytical papers. Each student will also produce a well-documented major research paper. Emphasis in grammar will focus on developing a sophisticated style in writing and speaking. Attention will be given to sequence of tense, effective sentence combining, parallel structure, and usage problems.
English 11
Grade:11 Course Number: 1150 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Completion of English 10 with passing grade. These students will study themes and characterizations in American literature, which are reflective of the history and the culture. They will make and analyze persuasive oral presentations, with attention to the accuracy of evidence and the effectiveness of delivery. Writing will include business and technical correspondence, expository and persuasive compositions, and documented research papers. The study of grammar emphasizes review of sentence structure, phrases/clauses, usage problems, and other information necessary for effective speaking and writing.
English 11 AP
Grade:11 Course Number: 1196 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: An A average in English 9 and 10 Challenge and the recommendation of that teacher. This is an AP course in English Language and Composition that 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. Both their writing and their reading should make students aware of the interactions among a writer's purposes, audience expectations, and subjects.
English 10
Grade: 10 Course Number: 1140 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Completion of English 9 with passing grade. Students will read and critique literary works from a variety of eras and cultures. Attention is given to communication in small-group activities and to analysis of printed consumer information. Emphasis in writing will be on exposition and analysis. Grammar study will include phrases and clauses, sentence structure, paragraph development, usage problems, and other information needed for effective speaking and writing.
English 10 Honors
Grade: 10 Course Number: 1141 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Have an A average and teacher recommendation to continue in Challenge class. These courses, designed for college-bound students, are more rigorous in content, process, and expectation than the regular English courses. In addition to the requirements for the regular English classes, students will read additional novels chosen from a list compiled by the department. Writing will include sophisticated grammatical structures, and speaking skills will be more fully developed. Students will enter at least one writing contest per year.
English 9
Grade: 9 Course Number: 1130 Credit: 1
Students will read significant literary works from a variety of cultures and eras. Knowledge of literary terms and forms will be applied in the student's own writing. Electronic databases and a style sheet method to cite references are used for research and reports. Writing includes narrative, literary, expository, and technical forms, with emphasis on analysis. Grammar study will include a review of the parts of speech, sentence structure, usage problems, and other information needed for effective writing and speaking.
English 9 Honors
Grade: 9 Course Number: 1131 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Student needs to pass the eighth grade English SOL test with Advanced Proficient and an A average. These courses, designed for college-bound students, are more rigorous in content, process, and expectation than the regular English courses. In addition to the requirements for the regular English classes, students will read additional novels chosen from a list compiled by the department. Writing will include sophisticated grammatical structures, and speaking skills will be more fully developed. Students will enter at least one writing contest per year.
Yearbook
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 1215 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Application with essay and teacher recommendation.
Math
Algebra I
Grade: 9 – 12 Course Number: 3130 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Student must pass the eight-grade math with a B or better average. Course content includes sets and set notation, the study of the structure and properties of the number system, the system of polynomials, first degree equations and inequalities in one and two variables, factors of polynomials, rational expressions, irrational numbers, graphing, and quadratic equations.
Geometry
Grade: 9 – 12 Course number:3142 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Pass Algebra I Part II/ Algebra I. This course is a study in basic geometry covering such topics as reasoning and proof, parallel lines and triangles, congruent and similar triangles, polygons and quadrilaterals, coordinate geometry, area, circles, surface area and volume, and transformational geometry.
Algebra II
Grade: 10 – 12 Course Number:3135 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Pass Algebra I and Geometry with a C or better average and pass the Algebra I and Geometry SOL test or students needing a math credit for graduation/diploma requirements and have exhausted options with a lower level math. Algebra II begins with a review of properties of operations and order in the set of real numbers. Topics of study include linear functions and relations, systems of linear equalities and inequalities, polynomials and rational algebraic expressions, sequences, quadratic formula, complex numbers, and exponential and logarithmic functions. Additional topics that may be introduced are permutations, combinations, probability, and an introduction to matrices.
Trigonometry/Analysis
Grade11-12 courseNumber:3137 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Pass Algebra II with a C or better average and pass the Algebra II SOL test. This course is divided into two semesters of study. The first semester includes the introduction of trigonometry with emphasis of the following topics: basic circular functions, graphs of circular functions, inverses of circular functions and their graphs, and trigonometric functions. The second semester includes the study of the following topics: vectors, analytic geometry of points and lines, coordinate geometry of conic sections, exponential and logarithmic functions, and complex numbers.
Pre-Calculus
Grade:12 courseNumber: 3162 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Pass Algebra II with a B or better average and pass the Algebra II SOL test. Also, be enrolled in or have completed Trigonometry with a C or better average. This course includes the study of linear functions and relations, theory of equations, matrices and vectors, sequences and series, polar coordinates and complex numbers, limits, derivatives, integrals, and probability.
AP Calculus
Grade:12 Course Number: 3177 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Completed through Trigonometry with an A or B average. Pass the entrance test administrated through Virginia Highlands Community College . This course is designed to meet the requirements of the Advanced Placement program. A student needs a strong background in algebra, geometry, and analysis before attempting this course. Some of the topics studied are functions, conics, trigonometry, derivatives of polynomial and trigonometric functions, polar coordinates, partial functions, parametric equations, and various application problems. Also studies are integrations of polynomial and trigonometric equations.
VHCC Engineering Calculus (Dual Enrollment)
Grade: 12 Course Number: 3180 Credit: 3
Prerequisite: Presents analytic geometry and the calculus of algebraic and transcendental functions including the study if limits,
derivates, differentials, and introductions to integration along with their applications. Designed for mathematical, physical and
engineering science programs.
VHCC Basic Applied Calculus (Dual Enrollment)
Grade: 12 Course Number: 3179 Credit: 3
Prerequisite: Present limits, continuity, differentiation of algebraic and transcendental function functions with applications, and an introduction to integration.
Science Department:
Earth Science
Grade:9 Course Number: 4209 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None. Major emphasis and laboratory work are in the areas of geology, astronomy, meteorology, oceanography and physical geography.
Biology
Grade:10 Course number: Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Completion of Earth Science or Earth Science CH. Biology is designed for the non-college-bound student. The main objectives are to have the student plan and conduct investigations. The students will investigate the history of biological concepts, the biochemical principles essential for life, the relationship between cell structure and function, the basis of classification systems, and the common mechanism of inheritance.
Biology Honors
Grade:10 CourseNumber:4310 credit: 1
Prerequisite: Recommendation from 9th grade science teacher and successful completion of Earth Science or Earth Science CH with an A or B. This course is designed for college-bound students and provides the students with a detailed understanding of living systems, classification of organisms, biochemical life processes, cellular organization, and mechanisms of inheritance. Also included are population studies, interactions and relationships among organisms, populations, communities, ecosystems and their environments, as well as changes in organisms through time.
Biology II/ Ecology
Grade11-12 Course Number: 4340 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Biology or Biology CH. Involves hands-on laboratory activities - learning about issues and interactions between man and his environment
Chemistry
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 4410 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation from biology teacher and pass Biology Challenge and Algebra II. Chemistry involves the study of matter and energy.
Social Studies Department:
Virginia and U. S. Government
Grade:12 Course Number: 2440 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: U. S. History. Course is designed to acquaint the student with a firm understanding of the structure and functions of state, local, and national government. The course also traces the development of government in the U. S. and the world and exposes the student to contemporary political thought and practice.
Virginia and U. S. History
Grade:11 Course Number: 2360 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: World Geography or World History. This course studies the development of the United States and its interplay with the nations of the world and includes a study of the state of Virginia with emphasis on the cultural and political contributions to the nation.
Current History Economics
Grade: 10 – 12 Course Number: 2800 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None. Current History is a semester course concerned with current events. One of the popular news magazines is used as a text with inclusion of media news and newspaper articles. The course will be limited to a maximum of 25 students. The course will be limited to students in grades 10-12.
World History I
Grade:9–10 Course Number: 2341 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None. World History is a survey of the early development of world cultures. Students will understand the development of world civilizations from the prehistoric era to 1000 A. D. Emphasis is placed on Egyptian, Greek, Roman, and Asian cultural and geo-political contributions. Students will acquire an appreciation of the world's major religions. This course is an excellent precursor for WH II.
World History II
Grade:10–12 Course Number: 2342 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: World History I. The course examines the history and culture of the world from 1000 A.D. - present. Students will recognize contributions made during major time periods that include the Industrial Revolution, the Renaissance and Reformation, and major military revolutions.
Physical Education
Advanced PE
Grade:11–12 Course Number: 7640 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: A/B average in 9th & 10th PE. Activities offer more lifelong activities that include swimming, canoeing, kayaking, fishing, water safety, beach volleyball, repelling, golf, tennis orienteering, bowling, camping, outdoor cooking, archery, and special classes like CPR, Youth Leadership, and Virginia Hunter Education.
Health and Physical Education 10
Grade:10 Course Number: 7400 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Must complete PE 9 with passing grade and State required physical education/health/drivers education. The PE program is designed to develop, maintain, and appreciate physical fitness. Classroom subject matter for Driver Ed. is based on an analysis of the tasks an individual must perform when operating a motor vehicle.
Health and Physical Education 9
Grade:9 Course Number: 7305 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: State required physical education and health. The Physical Education program is designed to develop, maintain, and appreciate physical fitness.
CTE Courses
Agricultural Plant Science I
Grade: 9 - 12 Course number: 8006 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None. Approximately one half of the course is devoted to (agricultural mechanics with emphasis placed on skill development in basic metals, tool filing and cold metals, introduction to arc and gas welding, sheet metal, and hand woodworking. The remainder of the course emphasizes the development of competencies in plant and animal sciences, rural and urban living, leadership, and resource conservation.
Agricultural Animal Science II
Grade: 10 - 12 Course Number: 8008 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Agricultural Science and Mechanics I. Approximately one half of the course is devoted to agricultural mechanics with emphasis placed on skill development in fundamentals of electricity, arc welding, gas cutting and welding, small engines, power woodworking and wood and metal preservatives. Instruction is also provided in animal science and further development of competencies in rural and urban living, leadership, and resource conservation.
Agricultural Production Technology III
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 8010 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Agricultural Science and Mechanics II. Emphasis is placed on individualized instruction and supervised occupational experience programs. The major emphasis is the attainment of competencies in one or more areas of plant science, animal science, soil science, agricultural business management and agricultural mechanization based upon the student's employment objective.
Agricultural III CO-OP
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 8011 Credit: 1
Agricultural Management IV
Grade: 12 Course Number: 8012 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Agricultural Production III. Agricultural Production IV is an occupational course. The course includes instruction in agricultural mechanics; emphasis is placed on the application of mechanical skills to farm power and machinery, soil and water management, and farm structures. Appropriate instruction is provided in livestock production, farm management, supervised farming programs, and leadership training.
Agricultural lV CO-OP
Grade: 12 Course Number: 8013 Credit: 1
Introduction to Natural Resources I
Grade:9 - 12 Course Number: 8040 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None. The 'Course assists students in developing knowledge and skills required for employment in occupations in forestry and wildlife management, outdoor recreation, and air, soil, and water management. This course includes instruction in forest production and management, wildlife, soil, and water, conservation, mechanics related to the field and leadership training.
Natural Resources Management II
Grade:10 - 12 Course Number: 8042 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Introduction to Natural Resources I. This course, which is a continuation of Introduction to Natural Resources, increases student knowledge of and appreciation for our outdoor resources. Students develop knowledge and skills necessary for employment or continuing education in forestry, wildlife, soil and water management, outdoor recreation, fish management, and air quality.
Horticulture Sciences I
Grade:10–11 Course Number: 8034 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None. The horticulture program is designed to assist students in developing necessary knowledge, skills, habits, and attitudes for entry employment and advancement in areas such as floriculture, landscaping, greenhouse operation, and nursery plant production. Students receive instruction in using soil and other plant growing media and identifying, propagating, and growing horticultural plants in the greenhouse and land lab.
Horticulture II Greenhouse Plant Production
Grade: 10 - 12 Course Number: 8035 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Horticulture Sciences. Included in this course are developing plant production facilities, science application in plant production and identification of plants. Business management and marketing skills are emphasized.
Horticulture III Landscaping
Grade: 10 - 12 Course Number: 8036 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Horticulture Sciences II. Students develop knowledge, skills, habits, and attitudes for entry-level employment in landscape design, landscape construction, and landscape maintenance.
Horticulture IV Special Arts
Grade:9 - 12 Course Number: 8037 Credit: 1
Horticulture IV Co-op
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 8041 Credit: 1
Agricultural/ Horticulture Co-op
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 8000-8103 Credit: 1-3
Turf Establishment and Maintenance I
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 8051 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: None. Students begin to master the duties and tasks of professionals who establish and maintain turf in public areas such as golf courses; park; athletic fields; school industrial, and institutional campuses; and residential lawns.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Information Technology Fundamentals
Grade: 9 - 10 Course Number: 6670 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: None. This course introduces essential basic skills elated to information technology basics, Internet fundamentals, network systems, computer maintenance/upgrading/troubleshooting, computer applications, and interactive media.
Accounting
Grade:
10,
11,
or
12
Course Number: 6320
Credit: 1
Prerequisites: None
Course Description: Accounting is a system of recording
and
summarizing
business and financial transactions. Students study the
basic
principles,
concepts, and practices of the accounting cycle.
Accounting is a
critical
factor leading to business success.
Business Management*
Grade:
10,
11,
or
12
Course Number: 6135
Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Information Technology Fundamentals (IC3)
Course Description: Business Management equips students
with the
social,
economic, business, and job search competencies necessary for
successful
initial employment in retail, wholesale, industrial, or service
businesses.
Students study basic management concepts as they explore
business
ownership,
planning, operations, marketing, finance, economics,
communication, the
global
marketplace, and human relations. Student leadership
skills may
be
enhanced by participation in Cooperative Education* and the
Future
Business
Leaders of America (FBLA).
*Cooperative Education
Grade:
11
or
12
Credit: 1
Prerequisites: 2.0 GPA; Teacher Approval
Students must successfully complete both the classroom (Business
Management)
and on-the-job training phase of the program in order to receive
credit
and
must be continuously employed throughout the school year in a teacher
approved business, industrial or service firm.
Computer Information System
Grade: 10 - 12 Course Number: 6612 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Keyboarding or Information Technology Fundamentals. This course includes learning and applying Microsoft Office applications Word, Excel, Power Point, and Access.
Web Page I
Grade: 10 – 12 Course Number: 6631 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Algebra I and lower level computer class. Students begin to explore and learn the process of developing a Web Page using Microsoft FrontPage as the computer applications. Digital cameras are used to capture student events.
Web Page II
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 6632 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Web Page Development 1. Web Page II students will be exposed to the HTML code and logic procedures to program complex web pages. Students then work to maintain the schools current Web Page.
Foreign Language
French I
Grade: 9 – 12 Course Number: 10 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Students will have an A or B average in English and a recommendation from the English teacher or previous language teacher is necessary. French I is a basic introduction to French grammar and culture.
French II
Grade: 10 – 12 Course Number: Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Students will have an A or B average in English and a recommendation from the English teacher or previous language teacher is necessary.
French III
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Students will have an A or B average in English and a recommendation from the English teacher or previous language teacher is necessary.
French IV
Grade:12 Course Number: 5140 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Students will have an A or B average in English and a recommendation from the English teacher or previous language teacher is necessary.
VHCC French (Dual Enrollment)
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Overall GPA 3.0, Advanced Diploma Track, B average in English, Recommendation of teacher. Introduces understanding, speaking, reading, and writing skills and emphasis basic French sentence structure.
SpanishI
Grade:9–12 Course Number: 5510 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Students will have an A or B average in English and a recommendation from the English teacher or previous language teacher is necessary. Spanish I is a basic introduction to the Spanish language, stressing equally the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
Spanish II
Grade:9–12 Course Number: 5520 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Students will have an A or B average in English and a recommendation from the English teacher or previous language teacher is necessary. Spanish II continues the study of the language stressing verb tenses, idioms, and more complex grammatical structures. Reading , writing, listening, and speaking are still stressed as well as continued study of the Hispanic life style.
Spanish III
Grade:10–12 Course Number: 5530 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Students will have an A or B average in English and a recommendation from the English teacher or previous language teacher is necessary.
Spanish IV
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number 40 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Students will have an A or B average in English and recommendation from the English teacher or previous language teacher is necessary.
Spanish V
Grade:12 Course Number: 5550 Credit 1
Prerequisite: Students will 'have an A or B average in English and recommendation from the English teacher or previous language teacher is necessary.
Fine Arts
\Art I
Grade: 9 – 12 Course Number: 9120 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None. Art I introduces students to the elements of art and the principles of design. This course includes art history, aesthetics, art criticism and studio production. Students will work in drawing from life, painting with tempera and watercolor, clay, sculpture, printmaking, papermaking, and bookbinding.
Art II
Grade: 10 – 12 Course Number: 9130 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Art 1. The student will learn to analyze any work of art terms of the elements of art and principles of design. Students will study art history with emphasis on selected artists. Covered will be drawing, painting, sculpture, 'ceramics, printmaking, and bookbinding. Student must have average of "C" or better on Art 1.
Art III
Grade: 11 – 12 Course number: 9140 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Art II. Courses emphasize individual style, art history, aesthetics, and art criticism continues. Student must have average of "C" or better in Art II.
Art IV
Grade: 12 Course Number: 9150 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Art III. Courses emphasize individual style, art history aesthetics, and art criticism continues. Student must have average of "C" or better in Art II.
Band
Grade: 9 – 12 Course Number: 9234 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: Audition or previous successful band experience. Area of instruction include marching band techniques (fall season only), concert band performance, and survey of band literature, sight-reading, audition preparation, technical development, and basic music theory.
Percussion Ensemble
Grade:9–12 Course Number: Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Any student wishing to participate in percussion ensemble must: Be in either band or choir. Be able to read music (treble or bass clef) at a proficient level. Be dedicated to practicing their music and performing for the public. This class is designed for students wishing to learn more about percussion and perform on percussion instruments. This class will teach the less experienced students the basics of performing on percussion equipment and the more experienced students a chance to grow in their percussion skills. In addition, students will learn proper playing techniques for all basic percussion equipment including keyboard percussion, pitched, and non-pitched percussion instruments. Snare drum rudiments will also be included as part of the class. Very minimal amounts of homework will be assigned in this class; however, students are expected to practice their music daily and perform in concerts after-school. After-school rehearsals may be scheduled as needed.
Chorus
Grade: 9 – 12 Course number: 9289 Credit: 1
Prerequisite: None. This course is made up of soprano/alto/tenor/bass combined into one large group setting.
GOVERNOR'S SCHOOL
Anatomy & Physiology I, II
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 4331 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Complete application and be in the gifted program. This course will present an integrated approach to human anatomy and physiology along with microbiology and pathology. Students should understand the scope and subdivision of anatomy and physiology as well as the chemistry of the human body as it relates to the health sciences.
Astronomy I, II
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 4610 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Complete application and be in the gifted program. In this course you discover new facts, but also you will grow to appreciate the cosmos that surrounds us. You will grow to understand those mysterious phenomena of the heavens.
Engineering & Robotics I, II
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 8490 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Complete application and be in the gifted program. This course is designed to help you understand what an engineer is and what an engineer does. It will give you a strong foundation in engineering fundamentals and help cultivate your problem-solving skills. Our students will also need to be able to participate in controlling technological change because it will shape their lives and their children's lives. We will explore industrial robots, educational robots, as well as personal robots. You will even build your own robot!
Multivariate Calculus & Analytical Geometry
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 3178 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Complete application and be in the gifted program. This course is designed to introduce students to the powerful mathematical tools that comprise the calculus. Students will learn to solve a broad range of "real world" problems in the engineering and physical science fields - from the "burn" duration of the Shuttle orbital maneuvering system for ISS rendezvous to the ballistic path of a basketball through application of calculus fundamentals. Students will also be introduced to the use of computers for calculus based problem solution.
Principles of Physics I, II
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 4510-4520 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Complete application and be in the gifted program. The course is not to make you a physicist. It is to give you an idea of the way physicists view the world; to have the satisfaction of understanding and even predicting the outcome of activities happening all around you.
Statistics I, II
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 3190 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Complete application and be in the gifted program. The course is designed to introduce students to fundamental techniques of probability calculation and statistical analysis. Students will learn basic mathematical tools for effective experiment design, experimental results analysis, and "Real World" probability determination.
Western Civilization I, 11
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 2375 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Complete application and be in the gifted program. The course is designed to introduce students to the history of humankind from the earliest period through the present with an emphasis on Western Civilization. Students will learn about the major cultures, ideas, people, and events that have influences the development of modern Western society.
World Civilization I, II
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 2351 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Complete application and be in the gifted program. The course offers students an introduction to the history of humankind from prehistory to the twenty-first century. While the approach is similar to the Western Civilization course, this course has a global perspective. This course is designed to survey the Asian, African, Latin American, and European civilization from the ancient period to the present.
Asynchronous Courses - Distance Learning Solution
Advanced Placement (AP) English Language & Composition
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 2212 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Students must complete an application for the following course.
AP English Language and Composition will train students to become skilled readers and writers and prepare them to take the AP English Language and Composition exam. This intensive writing course emphasizes coherent organization, logical thought development, and effective uses of language, which lead to the overall success of this course. Students will engage in peer reviews and writing workshops. End of course project is an online writing portfolio.
Advanced Placement (AP) Human Geography
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 2212 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Students must complete an application for the following course. AP Human Geography introduces student to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth's surface. Students will study diverse peoples and areas organized around concepts that include location and place, scale, pattern, spatial organization, and rationalization. They will also learn about the methods and tools geographer use in their science and practice. This course will prepare students to take the AP Human Geography exam.
Advanced Placement (AP) Spanish Language
Grade 11 - 12 Course Number: 5570 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Students must complete an application for the following course. Advanced Placement CAP) Spanish Language places emphasis on the mastery of the Spanish Language. The four areas of reading, writing, speaking, and listening will be practiced extensively allowing students to hone their skills in preparation for the Advanced Placement Examination in Spanish Language.
Legal Ease
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 6131 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Students must complete an application for the following course. This course will examine the foundations of our legal system. Topics include criminal law, business law, family law, etc. Research on a multitude of legal professions will also be conducted during this course. Students will study case law that has made an impact on the way we live our lives today.
Advanced Geometry
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 3199 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Students must complete an application for the following course. Advanced geometry will build on the skills and knowledge students have mastered in SOL geometry. Students in advanced geometry will delve into geometry topics in greater depth as well as cover topics beyond the scope of SOL geometry (including real life applications). Advanced geometry will satisfy the math elective requirement for an advanced studies diploma.
Advanced Biology: Regional Ecology
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 4340 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Students must complete an application for the following course. This course is an exploration of the unusual ecology of the Southern Appalachian Mountains . Topics include the geological, hydrological and biological processes affecting Southwest Virginia . There will be a focus on environment change and the implication to economic and human systems.
Dual Enrollment U.S. History
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 2996 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Students must complete an application for the following course. This course is a survey of the history of the United States from discovery through the twenty-first century. Students who successfully complete this course will earn credit for History 122 (United States History I) and History 122 (United States History II) for a total of six hours of college credit. Students in this course must have successfully completed SOL U.S. History.
Our Own Write
Grade: 11 – 12 Course Number: 1515 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Students must complete an application for the following course. Students in English 1515 will study the Appalachian oral tradition. Students will explore and write about aspects of Appalachian lore and culture - both present and past - while focusing on skills development in research, photography, interviewing, multiple modes of writing, and Internet-based publication. The goal of the course is to complete a class project that will highlight the Appalachian culture and represent the diversity of Appalachian through the students in the class.
Write! Write! Write!
Grade: 11 - 12 Course Number: 1171 Credit: 1
Prerequisites: Students must complete an application for the following course. This course is designed to assist students in tapping their creative potential through a variety of personal writings, short stories, poems and a non-fiction article with the prospect of publication. The final project will be the creation of a literary magazine, featuring selections from all writers.
AP European History
The study of European history since 1450 A.D. introduces students to cultural, economic, political, and social developments that played a fundamental role in shaping the world in which they live. Without this knowledge, we would lack the context for understanding the development of contemporary institutions, the role of continuity and change in present-day society and politics, and the evolution of current forms of artistic expression and intellectual discourse. In addition to providing a basic narrative of events, and movements, goals of the course are to develop a) an understanding of some of the principal themes in modern European history, b) an ability to analyze historical evidence and historical interpretation, and c) an ability to express historical understanding in writing. Summer assignments are required. Students taking this course are required to take the Advanced Placement Exam.
Prerequisite:World History I/ English grade of B or better. This course is offered through York County .
World Mythology
The purpose of this class is to introduce students to major themes, stories, and characters in the mythologies of several different cultures. The course will concentrate on Greek and Roman mythology, but will also include material from Norse, Celtic, Native American, African and Egyptian mythology. The course will be taught using an interdisciplinary approach that considers literary and artistic themes from diverse perspectives including theology, sociology, anthropology and history.
Prerequisite: Students should display an interest and aptitude in social studies and literature. Strong writing skills are important.
AP Environmental Science
The goal of the course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them.
Prerequisite:It is recommended that students have completed two years of high school laboratory science – one year of life science and one year of physical science (biology or chemistry). Students should also have taken at least one year of algebra. It is also desirable that students have taken earth science.
AP World History
The purpose of the AP World History course is to develop greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and contacts, in interaction with different types of human societies.
Prerequisite: Students enrolled in AP World History should exhibit above average knowledge concerning historical and political events. Students should have earned an overall “B” average in related history and geography courses.
AP Art History
The AP offering in Art History is designed to provide the student with an understanding and knowledge of architecture, sculpture, painting, and other art forms within diverse historical and cultural contexts. Students examine and critically analyze major forms of artistic expression from the past and the present from a variety of cultures. While visual analysis is the fundamental tool of the art historian, art history also emphasizes understanding works in context, considering such issues as patronage, gender, and the functions of and effects of works of art.
Prerequisite: High degree of commitment to academic work and prior success in other courses such as history and literature and in any of the studio arts.
AP Statistics
AP Statistics is a college-level, non-calculus based course in introductory statistics. This course is designed to present strategies for collecting, organizing, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Student will work on projects involving the hands-on gathering and analysis of real world data. They will learn to interpret and judge the statistical information in the world around them. Computers and calculators will allow students to investigate and explore statistical concepts. Effective communication skills will be developed through regular written analysis of real data.
Prerequisite: Algebra II, with the requisite mathematical maturity and quantitative reasoning ability.
Pre-Calculus/Mathematical Analysis
The purpose of this course is to study functions and develop skills necessary for the study of calculus. The pre-calculus course includes analytical geometry and trigonometry. The course content will cover the following concepts: polynomial, rational, exponential, inverse, logarithmic, and circular functions; sequence and series; vectors; conic sections; polar coordinate systems; mathematical induction; matrix algebra and system of equations.
Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II and Geometry. A strong understanding of Algebra II is necessary.
AP Calculus AB
Calculus AB develops the students’ understanding of the concepts of calculus and provides experience with its methods and applications. The course emphasizes a multirepresentational approach to calculus, with concepts, results, and problems being expressed graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally.
Prerequisites: Four years of secondary mathematics including courses in which algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry, and elementary functions are taught.
Chinese I
Students develop the ability to communicate about themselves and their immediate environment using simple sentences containing basic language structures. This communication
is evidenced in all four language skills – listening, speaking, reading and writing – with emphasis on the ability to communicate orally and in writing. Students begin to explore and study the themes of Personal and Family Life, School Life, Social Life, and Community Life. Enrollment will be expanded and Chinese II, III and AP Chinese will be developed in successive years.
Prerequisite: Recommendation of school guidance counselor based on student’s prior school performance and self-motivation. The student must plan to take the language a minimum of 2-3 years.
AP Latin Literature
The AP Latin Literature offering requires students to be able to translate accurately from Latin into English the poetry or prose they are reading and to demonstrate a grasp of grammatical structures and vocabulary. Stylistic analysis is an integral part of the advanced work in AP Latin Literature. Students will study the poetry of Catullus paired with selections from Cicero, Horace or Ovid. Students will be able to understand and analyze passages from these authors.
Prerequisites: High degree of commitment to academic work and completion of Latin I, II, and III.
Creative Writing
This course is an introduction to the major genres of creative (imaginative) writing, including fiction, poetry, drama, and personal essay (creative nonfiction). The class will examine the creative process through experimentation with a variety of creative exercises. The types of experimental writing will examine the formal, technical elements of fiction, poetry, and drama. In addition, the course will feature reading, analyzing, and critiquing a variety of literary examples, including the student’s writing. The course members will compose stories, poems, and dramatic scenes. Finally, this course will prepare the student for more advanced work in creative writing, including fiction and poetry writing.
Prerequisites: This course will be structured as a writing workshop course taught online. Students must be willing to dedicate time to peer evaluation of the poetry and fiction written by students.
SAT Prep (fee-based)
The course objectives are: l) assess strengths and weaknesses in testing skills and strategies to personalize instruction, 2) demonstrate the use of organizational skills by submitting weekly action plans, 3) differentiate among strategies necessary to successfully complete standardized tests, 4) become familiar with test, test directions, answer sheet and different type of questions by taking actual sample tests, 5) apply critical thinking skills, 6) apply problem solving techniques and strategies, 7) apply fundamental mathematical principles to unfamiliar problems, 8) apply knowledge of successful study and reading strategies.
The SAT Prep course is fee based. The tuition charge is $150.00 per student.
Prerequisites: 10th grade student or above. The student should have completed or is currently taking mathematics through the level of Geometry.