Course Catalog

Mission Academy 2022 – 2023

HIGH SCHOOL

  • English 9

    • Transcript Category: English || A-G: B
    • Description: The English 9 course is an overview of exemplar selections of literature in fiction and nonfiction genres. Students read short stories, poems, a full-length novel, and a full-length Shakespeare play, analyzing the use of elements of literature in developing character, plot, and theme. For example, in selected stories, students compare the effect of setting on tone and character development. Likewise, in the poetry unit, students analyze how artists and writers draw from and interpret source material. Each unit includes informational texts inviting students to consider the historical, social, and literary context of the main texts they study. For example, in the first semester, a Nikolai Gogol story that is offered as an exemplar of magical realism is accompanied by instruction on that genre. Together, the lesson content and reading prompt students to demonstrate their understanding of magical realism by analyzing its qualities in a literary text. Throughout the course, students respond to others’ claims and support their own claims in essays, discussions, and presentations, consistently using thorough textual evidence. The range of texts includes canonical authors such as William Shakespeare, Franz Kafka, and Elie Wiesel, as well as writers from diverse backgrounds, such as Alice Walker, Li-Young Lee, and Robert Lake-Thom (Medicine Grizzlybear).

  • English 10

    • Transcript Category: English || A-G: B
    • Description: The focus of the English 10 course is the writing process. Three writing applications guide the curriculum: persuasive, expository, and narrative writing. Each lesson culminates in a written assignment that lets students demonstrate their developing skill in one of these applications. English 10 follows the model of English 9 by including at least one anchor text per lesson, but the essays, articles, stories, poems, and speeches are often presented as models for students to emulate as they practice their own writing. So that these readings may serve as proper examples for students, a high proportion of texts for this course are original pieces. English 10 also continues to develop students’ reading, listening, and speaking skills. Readings include poems, stories, speeches, plays, and a graphic novel, as well as a variety of informational texts. The readings represent a wide variety of purposes and cultural perspectives, ranging from the Indian epic The Ramayana to accounts of Hurricane Katrina told through different media. Audio and video presentations enhance students’ awareness and command of rhetorical techniques and increase their understanding of writing for different audiences.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      English 9

  • English 11

    • Transcript Category: English || A-G: B
    • Description: In the English 11 course, students examine the belief systems, events, and literature that have shaped the United States. They begin by studying the language of independence and the system of government developed by Thomas Jefferson and other enlightened thinkers. Next, they explore how the Romantics and Transcendentalists emphasized the power and responsibility of the individual in both supporting and questioning the government. Students consider whether the American Dream is still achievable and examine the Modernists’ disillusionment with the idea that America is a “land of opportunity.”Reading the words of Frederick Douglass and the text of the Civil Rights Act, students look carefully at the experience of African Americans and their struggle to achieve equal rights. Students explore how individuals cope with the influence of war and cultural tensions while trying to build and secure their own personal identity. Finally, students examine how technology is affecting our contemporary experience of freedom: Will we eventually change our beliefs about what it means to be an independent human being? In this course, students analyze a wide range of literature, both fiction and nonfiction. They build writing skills by composing analytical essays, persuasive essays, personal narratives, and research papers. In order to develop speaking and listening skills, students participate in discussions and prepare speeches. Overall, students gain an understanding of the way American literature represents the array of voices contributing to our multicultural identity.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      English 9 & English 10

  • English 12

    • Transcript Category: English || A-G: B
    • Description:The English 12 course asks students to closely analyze world literature and consider how we humans define and interact with the unknown, the monstrous, and the heroic. In the epic poems The Odyssey, Beowulf, and The Inferno, in Shakespeare’s Tempest, in the satire of Swift, and in the rhetoric of World War II, students examine how the ideas of “heroic” and “monstrous” have been defined across cultures and time periods and how the treatment of the “other” can make monsters or heroes of us all. Reading Frankenstein and works from those who experienced the imperialism of the British Empire, students explore the notion of inner monstrosity and consider how the dominant culture can be seen as monstrous in its ostensibly heroic goal of enlightening the world. Throughout this course, students analyze a wide range of literature, both fiction and nonfiction. They build writing skills by composing analytical essays, persuasive essays, personal narratives, and research papers. In order to develop speaking and listening skills, students participate in discussions and prepare speeches. Overall, students gain an understanding of the way world literature represents the array of voices that contribute to our global identity.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      English 9, English 10, and English 11

  • ELL Foundations Newcomer

    • Transcript Category: English (ELs) || A-G: N/A
    • Description: The ELL Foundations: Newcomer course consists of 23 thematic lessons. Its design facilitates the introduction of basic vocabulary and sentence structure needed by beginning English language learners. These units enable students to experience immediate success in communicating in English while progressively developing skills necessary for success in ELL Foundations: Level 1By the end of this course, you will be able to do the following:
      ❖ Understand basic structures, expressions and vocabulary such as school
      environment, questions, and greetings
      ❖ Apply knowledge of letter-sound correspondences to recognize words
      ❖ Understand basic vocabulary such as school environment
      ❖ Use sound/symbol relationships as they apply to the phonological systems of English
      ❖ Recognize and distinguish phonological elements of newly acquired vocabulary such
      as vowel sounds for the letters a, e, and i, and the consonant sound for ch
      ❖ Infer meaning by making associations of words with the context of the situation
      ❖ Understand basic number vocabulary
      ❖ Understand basic vocabulary such as directions
      ❖ Understand prepositions of location and questions about location
      ❖ Interpret a speaker’s message and distinguish between the speaker’s opinion and
      verifiable fact

  • ELL Foundations Level IA & IB

    • Transcript Category: English (ELs) || A-G: N/A
    • Description: The ELL Foundations: Level 1 course offers 32 multicultural reading selections in the following genres: myths and legends, biographies, poetry, short stories, and articles.By the end of this course, you will be able to do the following:
      ❖ Rely on context to determine meanings of words and phrases
      ❖ Identify and explain main ideas and their supporting details understand and analyze the differences in structure and purpose between various categories of informational materials
      ❖ Analyze ways authors organize and present ideas such as: cause/effect,
      compare/contrast or chronologically
      ❖ Rely on knowledge of cognates to determine meanings of words and phrases
      Use reference aids such as a glossary, dictionary, thesaurus and available technology to determine meaning, usage and pronunciation
      ❖ Use structural analysis to identify words, including knowledge of Greek and Latin roots and prefixes/suffixes
      ❖ Paraphrase and summarize text to recall, inform, or organize ideas
      ❖ Recognize elements of plot, including setting, character development, conflicts, and resolutions
      ❖ Understand various elements of authors’ craft in both fiction and nonfiction, including word choice, symbolism, figurative language, mood, irony, foreshadowing, flashback, persuasion techniques, and point of view
      ❖ Identify common themes in literature

  • Reading Skills and Strategies

    • Transcript Category: English or Elective || A-G: GB
    • Description: Reading Skills and Strategies is a course is designed to help the struggling reader develop mastery in the areas of reading comprehension, vocabulary building, study skills, and media literacy, which are the course’s primary content strands. Using these strands, the course guides the student through the skills necessary to be successful in the academic world and beyond. The reading comprehension strand focuses on introducing the student to the varied purposes of reading (e.g., for entertainment, for information, to complete a task, or to analyze). In the vocabulary strand, the student learns specific strategies for understanding and remembering new vocabulary. In the study skills strand, the student learns effective study and test-taking strategies. In the media literacy strand, the student learns to recognize and evaluate persuasive techniques, purposes, design choices, and effects of media. The course encourages personal enjoyment in reading with 10 interviews featuring the book choices and reading adventures of students and members of the community. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards.

  • Writing Skills and Strategies

    • Transcript Category: English or Elective || A-G: GB
    • Description: Writing Skills and Strategies develops key language arts skills necessary for high school graduation and success on high stakes exams through a semester of interactive instruction and guided practice in composition fundamentals. The course is divided into ten mini-units of study. The first two are designed to build early success and confidence, orienting students to the writing process and to sentence and paragraph essentials through a series of low-stress, high-interest hook activities. In subsequent units, students review, practice, compose and submit one piece of writing. Four key learning strands are integrated throughout: composition practice, grammar skill building, diction and style awareness, and media and technology exploration. Guided studies emphasize the structure of essential forms of writing encountered in school, in life, and in the work place. Practice in these forms is scaffolded to accommodate learners at different skill levels. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards.

  • Media Literacy

    • Transcript Category: English or Elective || A-G: English Elective (GB)
    • Description: Writing Skills and Strategies develops key language arts skills necessary for high school graduation and success on high stakes exams through a semester of interactive instruction and guided practice in composition fundamentals. The course is divided into ten mini-units of study. The first two are designed to build early success and confidence, orienting students to the writing process and to sentence and paragraph essentials through a series of low-stress, high-interest hook activities. In subsequent units, students review, practice, compose and submit one piece of writing. Four key learning strands are integrated throughout: composition practice, grammar skill building, diction and style awareness, and media and technology exploration. Guided studies emphasize the structure of essential forms of writing encountered in school, in life, and in the work place. Practice in these forms is scaffolded to accommodate learners at different skill levels. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) standards.

  • Chemistry

    • Transcript Category: Physical Science || A-G: Science(D)
    • Description: Chemistry offers a curriculum that emphasizes students’ understanding of fundamental chemistry concepts while helping them acquire tools to be conversant in a society highly influenced by science and technology. The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice critical scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Topics include the nature of science, the importance of chemistry to society, atomic structure, bonding in matter, chemical reactions, redox reactions, electrochemistry, phases of matter, equilibrium and kinetics, acids and bases, thermodynamics, quantum mechanics, nuclear reactions, organic chemistry, and alternative energy. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how chemistry concepts are applied in technology and engineering. Journal and Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing skills. This course is built to state standards.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      Middle school Physical Science, and one year of Algebra

  • Earth Science

    • Transcript Category: Physical Science || A-G: Science(D)
    • Description: Earth Science offers a focused curriculum that explores Earth’s composition, structure, processes, and history; its atmosphere, freshwater, and oceans; and its environment in space. Course topics include an exploration of the major cycles that affect every aspect of life, including weather, climate, air movement, tectonics, volcanic eruptions, rocks, minerals, geologic history, Earth’s environment, sustainability, and energy resources. Optional teacher-scored labs and projects encourage students to apply the scientific method. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA).

  • Physics

    • Transcript Category: Physical Science || A-G: Science(D)
    • Description: Physics offers a curriculum that emphasizes students’ understanding of fundamental physics concepts while helping them acquire tools to be conversant in a society highly influenced by science and technology. The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice critical scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Topics include the nature of science, math for physics, energy, kinematics, force and motion, momentum, gravitation, chemistry for physics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, waves, nuclear physics, quantum physics, and cosmology. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how physics concepts are applied in technology and engineering. Journal and Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing skills. This course is built to state standards and the American Association for the Advancement of Science (AAAS) Project 2061 benchmarks and the National Science Education Standards.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      One year of Algebra (two years recommended)

  • Biology

    • Transcript Category: Life Science || A-G: Science (D)
    • Description: Biology focuses on the mastery of basic biological concepts and models while building scientific inquiry skills and exploring the connections between living things and their environment.The course begins with an introduction to the nature of science and biology, including the major themes of structure and function, matter and energy flow, systems, and the interconnectedness of life. Students then apply those themes to the structure and function of the cell, cellular metabolism, and biogeochemical cycles. Building on this foundation, students explore the connections and interactions between living things by studying genetics, ecosystems and natural selection, and evolution. The course ends with an applied look at human biology.Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts.Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science.This course is built to the National Science Education Standards (NSES) and is aligned with state standards.

  • Environmental Studies

    • Transcript Category: Elective || A-G: Science Elective (GD)
    • Description: Environmental Studies explores the biological, physical, and sociological principles related to the environment in which organisms live on Earth, the biosphere. Course topics include natural systems on Earth, biogeochemical cycles, the nature of matter and energy, the flow of matter and energy through living systems, populations, communities, ecosystems, ecological pyramids, renewable and non-renewable natural resources, land use, biodiversity, pollution, conservation, sustainability, and human impacts on the environment. The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, deconstruct claims, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Case studies of current environmental challenges introduce each content lesson and acquaint students with real-life environmental issues, debates, and solutions. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science. Virtual Lab activities enable students to engage in investigations that require long periods of observation at remote locations and to explore simulations that enable environmental scientists to test predictions. Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how biology, earth science, and physical science are applied to the study of the environment and how technology and engineering are contributing solutions for studying and creating a sustainable biosphere. This course is built to state standards.

  • World History

    • Transcript Category: World History|| A-G: Social Science Elective (GA)
    • Description: In World History, students learn to see the world today as a product of a process that began thousands of years ago when humans became a speaking, travelling, and trading species. Through historical analysis grounded in primary sources, case studies, and research, students investigate the continuity and change of human culture, governments, economic systems, and social structures. Students build and practice historical thinking skills, learning to connect specific people, places, events and ideas to the larger trends of world history. In critical reading activities, feedback-rich instruction, and application-oriented assignments, students develop their capacity to reason chronologically, interpret and synthesize sources, identify connections between ideas, and develop well-supported historical arguments. Students write throughout the course, responding to primary sources and historical narratives through journal entries, essays and visual presentations of social studies content. In discussion activities, students respond to the position of others while staking and defending their own claim. The course’s rigorous instruction is supported with relevant materials and active learning opportunities to ensure students at all levels can master the key historical thinking skills.This course is built to state standards.

  • U.S. History

    • Transcript Category: U.S. History || A-G: Social Science Elective (GA)
    • Description: U.S. History traces the nation’s history from the pre-colonial period to the present. Students learn about the Native American, European, and African people who lived in America before it became the United States. They examine the beliefs and philosophies that informed the American Revolution and the subsequent formation of the government and political system. Students investigate the economic, cultural, and social motives for the nation’s expansion, as well as the conflicting notions of liberty that eventually resulted in civil war. The course describes the emergence of the United States as an industrial nation and then focuses on its role in modern world affairs.Moving into the 20th and 21st centuries, students probe the economic and diplomatic interactions between the United States and other world players while investigating how the world wars, the Cold War, and the “information revolution” affected the lives of ordinary Americans. Woven through this chronological sequence is a strong focus on the changing conditions of women, African Americans, and other minority groups.The course emphasizes the development of historical analysis skills such as comparing and contrasting, differentiating between facts and interpretations, considering multiple perspectives, and analyzing cause-and-effect relationships. These skills are applied to text interpretation and in written assignments that guide learners step-by-step through problem-solving activities.This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies.

  • Economics

    • Transcript Category: Social Science Elective|| A-G: Social Science Elective (GA)
    • Description: Economics offers a tightly focused and scaffolded curriculum that provides an introduction to key economic principles. The course covers fundamental properties of economics, including an examination of markets from both historical and current perspectives; the basics of supply and demand; the theories of early economic philosophers such as Adam Smith and David Ricardo; theories of value; the concept of money and how it evolved; the role of banks, investment houses, and the Federal Reserve; Keynesian economics; the productivity, wages, investment, and growth involved in capitalism; unemployment, inflations, and the national debt; and a survey of the global economy. Economics is designed to fall in the fourth year of social studies instruction. Students establish mastery of key economic principles through a scaffolded series of analytic written assignments and lesson tests. They also apply basic mathematics to economic concepts. This course is built to state standards and further informed by standards from the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      U.S. Government and Politics is recommended, but not required

  • U.S. Government and Politics

    • Transcript Category: Civics|| A-G: Social Science Elective (GA)
    • Description: In U.S. Government and Politics, students examine the history, principles, and function of the political system established by the U.S. Constitution. Starting with a basic introduction to the role of government in society and the philosophies at the heart of American democracy, this course provides students with the knowledge needed to be informed and empowered participants in the U.S. political system. Through critical reading activities, feedback-rich instruction, and application-oriented assignments, students develop their capacity to conduct research, analyze sources, make arguments, and take informed action. In written assignments, students address critical questions about U.S. politics and the role of individual Americans in the politics and political organizations. In discussion activities, students respond to political opinions, take a position, and defend their own claims. Formative and summative assessments provide students — and teachers — with ample opportunities to check in, review, and evaluate students’ progress in the course. This course is built to state standards and informed by the College, Career, and Civil Life (C3) Framework for Social Studies State Standards and the National Standard for Civics and Government.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      U.S. History

  • Geography and World Cultures

    • Transcript Category: Elective|| A-G: Social Science Elective (GA)
    • Description: Geography and World Cultures offers a tightly focused and scaffolded curriculum that enables students to explore how geographic features, human relationships, political and social structures, economics, science and technology, and the arts have developed and influenced life in countries around the world. Along the way, students are given rigorous instruction on how to read maps, charts, and graphs, and how to create them.Geography and World Cultures is built to state standards and informed by standards from the National Council for History Education, the National Center for History in the Schools, and the National Council for Social Studies.Geography and World Cultures is designed as the first course in the social studies sequence. It develops note-taking skills, teaches the basic elements of analytic writing, and introduces students to the close examination of primary documents.

  • Psychology

    • Transcript Category: Elective|| A-G: Social Science Elective (GA)
    • Description: Psychology provides a solid overview of the field’s major domains: methods, biopsychology, cognitive and developmental psychology, and variations in individual and group behavior.By focusing on significant scientific research and on the questions that are most important to psychologists, students see psychology as an evolving science. Each topic clusters around challenge questions, such as “What is happiness?” Students answer these questions before, during, and after they interact with direct instruction.This course is built to state standards and informed by the American Psychological Association’s National Standards for High School Psychology Curricula. The teaching methods draw from the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) teaching standards.

  • Sociology

    • Transcript Category: Elective|| A-G: Social Science Elective (GA)
    • Description: Sociology examines why people think and behave as they do in relationships, groups, institutions, and societies.Major course topics include individual and group identity, social structures and institutions, social change, social stratification, social dynamics in recent and current events, the effects of social change on individuals, and the research methods used by social scientists.In online discussions and polls, students reflect critically on their own experiences and ideas, as well as on the ideas of sociologists. Interactive multimedia activities include personal and historical accounts to which students can respond, using methods of inquiry from sociology. Written assignments provide opportunities to practice and develop skills in thinking and communicating about human relationships, individual and group identity, and all other major course topics.This course is built to state standards and the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Expectations of Excellence: Curriculum Standards for Social Studies.

  • Algebra I

    • Transcript Category: Algebra or Mathematics || A-G: Mathematics (C)
    • Description: Algebra I builds students’ command of linear, quadratic, and exponential relationships. Students learn through discovery and application, developing the skills they need to break down complex challenges and demonstrate their knowledge in new situations.Course topics include problem-solving with basic equations and formulas; an introduction to functions and problem solving; linear equations and systems of linear equations; exponents and exponential functions; sequences and functions; descriptive statistics; polynomials and factoring; quadratic equations and functions; and function transformations and inverses.This course supports students as they develop computational fluency, deepen conceptual understanding, and apply mathematical knowledge. Students discover new concepts through guided instruction and confirm their understanding in an interactive, feedback-rich environment.A variety of activities allow for students to think mathematically in a variety of scenarios and tasks. In Discussions, students exchange and explain their mathematical ideas. Modeling activities ask them to analyze real-world scenarios and mathematical concepts. Journaling activities have students reason abstractly and quantitatively, construct arguments, critique reasoning, and communicate precisely. And in Performance Tasks, students synthesize their knowledge in novel, real-world scenarios, make sense of multifaceted problems, and persevere in solving them.This course is built to state standards. Throughout the course, students are evaluated by a variety of assessments designed to prepare them for the content, form, and depth of state exams.

  • Algebra II

    • Transcript Category: Algebra or Mathematics || A-G: Mathematics (C)
    • Description: Algebra II introduces students to advanced functions, with a focus on developing a strong conceptual grasp of the expressions that define those functions. Students learn through discovery and application, developing the skills they need to break down complex challenges and demonstrate their knowledge in new situations. Course topics include quadratic equations and functions; polynomial functions; rational expressions and functions; radical expressions and functions; exponential and logarithmic functions; trigonometric functions; modeling with functions; probability and inferential statistics; probability distributions; and sampling distributions and confidence intervals. This course supports all students as they develop computational fluency and deepen conceptual understanding. Students begin each lesson by discovering new concepts through guided instruction, then confirm their understanding in an interactive, feedback-rich environment. Modeling activities equip students with tools for analyzing a variety of real-world scenarios and mathematical ideas. Journaling activities allow students to reason abstractly and quantitatively, construct arguments, critique reasoning, and communicate precisely. Performance tasks prepare students to synthesize their knowledge in novel, real-world scenarios and require that they make sense of multifaceted problems and persevere in solving them. This course is built to state standards.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      Algebra I and Geometry

  • Financial Algebra

    • Transcript Category: Mathematics || A-G: N/A
    • Description: Financial Algebra focuses on real-world financial literacy, personal finance, and business subjects. Students apply what they learned in Algebra 1 and Geometry to topics including personal income, taxes, checking and savings accounts, credit, loans and payments, car leasing and purchasing, home mortgages, stocks, insurance, and retirement planning. Students then extend their investigations using more advanced mathematics, such as systems of equations (when studying cost and profit issues) and exponential functions (when calculating interest problems).This course is built to state standards as they apply to Financial Algebra and adheres to the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics’ (NCTM) Problem Solving, Communication, Reasoning, and Mathematical Connections Process standards.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      Algebra 1 and Geometry or their equivalents

  • Pre-Calculus

    •  Transcript Category: Mathematics || A-G: Mathematics (C)
    • Description: Precalculus is a course that combines reviews of algebra, geometry, and functions into a preparatory course for calculus. The course focuses on the mastery of critical skills and exposure to new skills necessary for success in subsequent math courses. The first semester includes linear, quadratic, exponential, logarithmic, radical, polynomial, and rational functions; systems of equations; and conic sections. The second semester covers trigonometric ratios and functions; inverse trigonometric functions; applications of trigonometry, including vectors and laws of cosine and sine; polar functions and notation; and arithmetic of complex numbers. Within each Precalculus lesson, students are supplied with a post-study Checkup activity that provides them the opportunity to hone their computational skills by working through a low-stakes problem set before moving on to formal assessment. Unit-level Precalculus assessments include a computer-scored test and a scaffolded, teacher-scored test. The course is built to state standards and the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM) standards.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      Two years of algebra and one year of geometry

  • Probability and Statistics

    •  Transcript Category: Mathematics || A-G: Mathematics (C)
    • Description: Probability and Statistics provides a curriculum focused on understanding key data analysis and probabilistic concepts, calculations, and relevance to real-world applications. Students are challenged to work toward mastery of computational skills, apply calculators and other technology in data analysis, deepen their understanding of key ideas and solution strategies, and extend their knowledge through a variety of problem-solving applications. Course topics include types of data, common methods used to collect data, and representations of data, including histograms, bar graphs, box plots, and scatterplots. Students learn to work with data by analyzing and employing methods of extending results, involving samples and populations, distributions, summary statistics, experimental design, regression analysis, simulations, and confidence intervals.
      Ideas involving probability — including sample space, empirical and theoretical probability, expected value, and independent and compound events — are covered as students explore the relationship between probability and data analysis. Extended projects allow for more open-ended, extended applications of concepts and skills. Students collect and analyze statistical data about a topic that interests them, and they apply probability concepts in a real-world context. The content is based on the Common Core standards and is aligned with state standards.

  • Geometry

    • Transcript Category: Mathematics || A-G: Mathematics (C)
    • Description: Geometry builds upon students’ command of geometric relationships and formulating mathematical arguments. Students learn through discovery and application, developing the skills they need to break down complex challenges and demonstrate their knowledge in new situations. Course topics include reasoning, proof, and the creation of sound mathematical arguments; points, lines, and angles; triangles and trigonometry; quadrilaterals and other polygons; circles; congruence, similarity, transformations, and constructions; coordinate geometry; three-dimensional solids; and applications of probability. This course supports all students as they develop computational fluency and deepen conceptual understanding. Students begin each lesson by discovering new concepts through guided instruction, and then confirm their understanding in an interactive, feedback-rich environment. Modeling activities equip students with tools for analyzing a variety of real-world scenarios and mathematical ideas. Journaling activities allow students to reason abstractly and quantitatively, construct arguments, critique reasoning, and communicate precisely. Performance tasks prepare students to synthesize their knowledge in novel, real-world scenarios and require that they make sense of multifaceted problems and persevere in solving them. This course is built to state standards.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      Algebra I

  • General Math

    •  Transcript Category: Mathematics or Elective || A-G: N/A
    • Description: General Math offers a structured remediation solution based on the NCTM Curricular Focal Points and is designed to expedite student progress in acquiring 3rd- to 5th-grade skills. The course is appropriate for use as remediation for students in grades 6 to 12. When used in combination, Math Foundations I and Math Foundations II (covering grades 6 to 8) effectively remediate computational skills and conceptual understanding needed to undertake high school–level math courses with confidence. General Math empowers students to progress at their optimum pace through over 80 semester hours of interactive instruction and assessment spanning 3rd- to 5th-grade math skills. Carefully paced, guided instruction is accompanied by interactive practice that is engaging and accessible. Formative assessments help students to understand areas of weakness and improve performance, while summative assessments chart progress and skill development. Early in the course, students develop general strategies for honing their problem-solving skills. Subsequent units provide a problem-solving strand that asks students to practice applying specific math skills to a variety of real-world contexts. This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of Math (NCTM) standards and Curricular Focal Points for Prekindergarten through Grade 8 Mathematics: A Quest for Coherence. Math Foundations II builds directly upon the General Math curriculum.

  •  Pre-Algebra

    • Transcript Category: Mathematics || A-G: N/A
    • Description: Pre-Algebra provides a curriculum focused on foundational concepts that prepare students for success in Algebra I. Through a “Discovery-Confirmation-Practice”-based exploration of basic concepts, students are challenged to work toward a mastery of computational skills, to deepen their understanding of key ideas and solution strategies, and to extend their knowledge through a variety of problem-solving applications. Course topics include integers; the language of algebra; solving equations with addition, subtraction, multiplication, and division; fractions and decimals; measurement; exponents; solving equations with roots and powers; multi-step equations; and linear equations. Within each Pre-Algebra lesson, students are supplied with a scaffolded note-taking guide, called a Study Sheet, as well as a post-study Checkup activity that provides them the opportunity to hone their computational skills by working through a low-stakes, 10-question problem set before starting formal assessment. Unit-level Introductory Algebra assessments include a computer-scored test and a scaffolded, teacher-scored test. The course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council of Teachers of Mathematics (NCTM).

  • Spanish I

    • Transcript Category: VAPA/FL/CTE || A-G: Language (E)
    • Description: Spanish I teaches students to greet people, describe family and friends, talk about hobbies, and communicate about other topics, such as home life, occupations, travel, and medicine. Each lesson presents vocabulary, grammar, and culture in context, followed by explanations and exercises. Vocabulary includes terms to describe school subjects, parts of the body, and people, as well as idiomatic phrases. Instruction in language structure and grammar includes the structures and uses of present-tense verb forms, imperatives, adjective agreement, impersonal constructions, formal and informal address, and reflexive verbs. Students explore words used in different Spanish-speaking regions and learn about the cultures of Spanish-speaking countries and regions within and outside Europe.The material in this course is presented at a moderate pace.This course is built to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) standards.

  • Spanish II

    • Transcript Category: VAPA/FL/CTE || A-G: Language (E)
    • Description: Building on Spanish I concepts, Spanish II students learn to communicate more confidently about themselves, as well as about topics beyond their own lives – both in formal and informal situations. Each lesson presents vocabulary, grammar, and culture in context, followed by explanations and exercises. Students expand their vocabulary in topics such as cooking, ecology, geography, and architecture.Instruction in language structure and grammar includes a review of present-tense verb forms, an introduction to the past tense, the conditional mood, imperatives, impersonal constructions, and reported speech. Students deepen their knowledge of Spanish-speaking regions and cultures by learning about history, literature, culture, and contemporary issues.The material in this course is presented at a moderate pace.This course is built to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) standards.Spanish I, MS Spanish 2, or equivalent

  • Spanish III

    • Transcript Category: VAPA/FL/CTE || A-G: Language (E)
    • Description: In Spanish III, students build upon the skills and knowledge they acquired in Spanish I and II. The course presents new vocabulary and grammatical concepts in context while providing students with ample opportunities to review and expand upon the material they have learned previously. Students read and listen to authentic materials from newspapers, magazines, and television. The content is focused on contemporary and relevant topics such as urbanization and population growth in Latin American countries, global health concerns, jobs of the future, and scientific advancements. The materials engage students as they improve their command of Spanish. Students review the formation and use of regular and irregular verbs in the present and future tenses, as well as the use of reflexive particles and infinitives. They also expand their understanding of noun and adjective agreement, the comparative and superlative degree of adjectives, and the placement and use of direct and indirect objects and pronouns. Students expand their vocabulary through exposure to word roots and families, popular slang, the correct use of words that are often confused for one another, and review of concepts such as proper placement of accents and stress. Presentation of new materials is always followed by several interactive, online exercises, allowing students to master the material as they learn it. Teacher-scored activities provide students with opportunities to use their new Spanish skills both orally and in writing. Discussion activities allow students to interact with their peers in the target language. This course is built to the American Council on the Teaching of Foreign Languages (ACTFL) standards.
    • PREREQUISITES:
      Spanish I and II (or equivalent)

  • Art Appreciation

    • Transcript Category: VAPA || A-G: VAPA (F)
    • Description: Art Appreciation is a survey of the history of Western visual arts, with a primary focus on painting. Students begin with an introduction to the basic principles of painting and learn how to critique and compare works of art. Students then explore prehistoric and early Greek and Roman art before they move on to the Middle Ages. Emphasis is placed on the Renaissance and the principles and masters that emerged in Italy and northern Europe. Students continue their art tour with the United States during the 20th century, a time of great innovation as abstract art took center stage. While Western art is the course’s primary focus, students will finish the course by studying artistic traditions from Africa, Asia, Oceania, and the Americas.Coverage of each artistic movement highlights historical context and introduces students to key artists that represent a variety of geographic locations. Throughout the course, students apply what they have learned about art critique to analyze and evaluate both individual artists and individual works of art.This course is built to state standards and informed by the Consortium of National Arts Education Associations standards. It encompasses a variety of skills to enable students to critique, compare, and perhaps influence their own works of art.

  • Music Appreciation

    • Transcript Category: VAPA || A-G: VAPA (F)
    • Description: Music Appreciation introduces students to the history, theory, and genres of music, from the most primitive surviving examples through the classical to the most contemporary in the world at large. The course is offered in a two-semester format. The first semester covers primitive musical forms and classical music. The second semester presents the rich modern traditions, including American jazz, gospel, folk, soul, blues, Latin rhythms, rock and roll, and hip-hop. The course explores the interface of music and social movements and examines how the emergent global society and the Internet bring musical forms together in new ways from all around the world.

  • Business Applications

    • Transcript Category: CTE A-G/CTE || A-G: Elective (GO)
    • Description: Business Applications prepares students to succeed in the workplace. Students begin by establishing an awareness of the roles essential to an organization’s success, and then work to develop an understanding of professional communications and leadership skills. In doing so, students gain proficiency with word processing, email, and presentation management software.This course allows students to explore careers in business while learning skills applicable to any professional setting. Through a series of hands-on activities, students will create, analyze, and critique reports, letters, project plans, presentations, and other professional communications. Regular engagement in active learning ensures students can continually refine the skills necessary to prepare them for work. In addition, students will evaluate the qualifications required for specific careers so they can identify opportunities that are of interest to them.Business Applications is an introductory level Career and Technical Education course applicable to programs of study in business, management, and administration; information technology; and other career clusters. This course is built to state and national standards. Students who successfully complete the course can go on to obtain the Microsoft® Office Specialist: Microsoft® Office Word certification.**Microsoft is a registered trademark of Microsoft Corporation in the United States and/or other countries.

  • Computer Applications

    • Transcript Category: Computer Literacy or CTE || A-G: Elective (GO)
    • Description: Computer Applications provides an introduction to software applications that prepares students to succeed in the workplace and beyond. Students will develop an understanding of professional communications and leadership skills while gaining proficiency with word processing, email, and presentation management software. Students will also be able to demonstrate digital literacy through basic study web publishing and design, spreadsheets and database software.This course allows students to explore careers in the fields of business and information technology while learning skills applicable to any professional setting. Through a series of hands-on activities, students will create, analyze, and critique reports, letters, project plans, presentations, and other professional communications. Regular engagement in active learning ensures students can continually refine the skills necessary to prepare them for work. In addition, students will evaluate the qualifications required for specific careers so they can identify opportunities that are of interest to them.Computer Applications is an introductory level Career and Technical Education course applicable to programs of study in Business Management and Administration, Information Technology, and other career clusters. This course is built to state and national standards.

  • Athletic Conditioning I

    • Transcript Category: Physical Education || A-G: N/A
    • Description: Successful completion of this course will require parent/legal guardian sign-off on student-selected physical activities on weekly participation reports to verify the student is meeting his or her requirements and responsibilities. This course is available for students who participate in competitive athletics only.

  • Athletic Conditioning II

    • Transcript Category: Physical Education || A-G: N/A
    • Description: Successful completion of this course will require parent/legal guardian sign-off on student-selected physical activities on weekly participation reports to verify the student is meeting his or her requirements and responsibilities.

  • Physical Education A

    • Transcript Category: Physical Education || A-G: N/A
    • Description: This course is built to state standards and informed by the National Council for the Social Studies (NCSS) Expectations of Excellence: Curriculum Standards for Social Studies as well as the National Standards for History published by the National Center for History in Schools (NCHS). This course meets CA Healthy Youth Act (CHYA) compliance requirements for the instruction of sexual health in high school.

  • Physical Education B

    • Transcript Category: Physical Education || A-G: N/A
    • Description: Health Opportunities through Physical Education (HOPE) combines instruction in health and physical education in a full-year, integrated course. It focuses on developing skills, habits and attitudes to maintain a healthy lifestyle and applying lessons learned to physical fitness. Through active participation and real-world simulations, the course aims to demonstrate firsthand the value of conscientious lifestyle management. Successful completion of this course will require parent/legal guardian sign-off on student-selected physical activities on weekly participation reports to verify the student is meeting his or her requirements and responsibilities.

  • College and Career Preparation I

    • Transcript Category: Work Readiness || A-G: Elective (GO)
    • Description: High school students have many questions about the college application process, what it takes to be a successful college student, and how to begin thinking about their careers.In College and Career Preparation I, students obtain a deeper understanding of what it means to be ready for college. Students are informed about the importance of high school performance in college admissions and how to prepare for college testing. They know the types of schools and degrees they may choose to pursue after high school and gain wide exposure to the financial resources available that make college attainable.Career readiness is also a focus. Students connect the link between interests, college majors, and future careers by analyzing career clusters. Students come away from this course understanding how smart preparation and skill development in high school can lead into expansive career opportunities after they have completed their education and are ready for the working world.Students who complete College and Career Preparation I have the basic skills and foundation of knowledge to progress into College and Career Preparation II, the capstone course that provides hands-on information about the transition from high school to college and career.This course is built to the American School Counselors Association National Standards for school counseling programs.

  • College and Career Preparation II

    • Transcript Category: Work Readiness || A-G: Elective (GO)
    • Description: High school students have many questions about the college application process, what it takes to be a successful college student, and how to begin thinking about their careers.College and Career Preparation II builds on the lessons and skills in College and Career Preparation I. The course provides a step-by-step guide to choosing a college. It walks students through the process of filling out an application, including opportunities to practice, and takes an in-depth look at the various college-admission tests and assessments, as well financial aid options.College and Career Preparation II also instructs students in interviewing techniques and provides career guidance. Students explore valuable opportunities such as job shadowing and internships when preparing for a career.Students who complete this course obtain a deeper understanding of college and career readiness through informative, interactive critical thinking and analysis activities while sharpening their time management, organization, and learning skills that they learned in College and Career Preparation I.College and Career Preparation II prepares students with the knowledge and skills to be successful in college and beyond.This course is built to the American School Counselors Association National Standards for school counseling programs.

  • Foundations of JAG

    • Transcript Category: Work Readiness || A-G: N/A
    • Description: This course is a Career Readiness Course developed to provide engaging and relevant information by equipping students with the skills they need for employment. The Curriculum offers an integrated approach to exploring careers and their skill requirements. The course includes the skills, abilities, and learning dispositions that are required for success in 21st century society and workplaces. The curriculum comprises five modules: communication, career readiness, employability skills, leadership, and financial literacy.

  • Attack the CAASPP

    • Transcript Category: Elective NON A-G || A-G: N/A
    • Description: Attack the CAASPP is a 5 credit course designed to support 11th grade students to prepare to test their
      best on the CAASPP exams. The course focuses on building three key capacities in student participants: procedural knowledge of the technological interface of the SBAC testing platform, including question types and embedded tools, conceptual knowledge of key ELA and Math standards and content, and mental and emotional perseverance through challenges and stress.

  • Digital Skills

    • Transcript Category: Computer Literacy Non A-G || A-G: N/A
    • Description: Digital Skills is a course which covers many of the 21stcentury skills necessary for student academic and professional success. In this course students will learn the fundamental basics of the Google Drive Suite which includes Google Docs, Slides, Drawings, Gmail, and Calendar. Students will learn the importance of staying safe online as well as representing themselves in a positive light through their digital footprint. Students will learn and use a variety of tools to increase productivity and organization while working online. The course covers the importance of multimedia in enhancing academic and professional projects. Students will learn and apply advanced skills in the Google Drive Suite to ensure they maximize the features available. Lastly, students will design and create an online portfolio using Google Sites to showcase the work completed in the course.

  • Driver’s Education

  • Health Education

    • Transcript Category: Elective || A-G: Elective (GO)
    • Description: Health is a valuable, skills-based health education course designed for general education in grades 9 through 12. Health helps students develop knowledge, attitudes, and essential skills in a variety of health-related subjects, including mental and emotional health, social health, nutrition, physical fitness, substance use and abuse, disease prevention and treatment, and injury prevention and safety. Through use of accessible information and project-based learning, students apply the skills they need to stay healthy. These skills include identifying and accessing valid health information, practicing self-management, identifying internal and external influences, communicating effectively, making healthy decisions, setting goals, and advocating. Students who complete Health build the skills they need to protect, enhance, and promote their own health and the health of others. This course is built to state standards.