VIRTUAL PREPARATORY ACADEMY OF WASHINGTON

World history A*

World History (1 of 2) explores the key events and global historical developments from hunter-gatherer societies to the Industrial Revolution. It begins with analyzing early prehistoric people from the Paleolithic era to the Agricultural Revolution. The course follows the rise and fall of early empires and then considers the fall of the Roman Empire and its aftermath. Continuing through the Middle Ages, the course analyzes the Crusades, feudalism, the plague, and Asian empires. It explores the impact and effects of the Renaissance and Protestant Reformation on human culture and analyzes conflicts between the Roman Catholic Church and Protestant and Catholic reformers. Examining the Age of Exploration, the course follows European explorers who sought new trade routes to Asia, the discovery of the Americas, the rise of joint-stock companies, the slave trade, and the emergence of the American colonies. It analyzes significant historical revolutions, including the Scientific Revolution and the Enlightenment, the American and French revolutions, the Latin American revolutions, and the Industrial Revolution.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

world history b* 

World History (2 of 2) traces the developments of the last 250 years that have shaped the modern world. It begins by examining the origins of modern Western imperialism—or the building of empires, including the influence of the Industrial Revolution and reactions to groups based on culture and ethnicity. The course will analyze the profound cultural, economic, and political impacts imperialism had on Africa and Asia, including the rise of Japan. From there, it continues to examine how imperialism and nationalism contributed to the outbreak of World War I. It will consider how the Treaty of Versailles contributed to the rise of fascism in Europe and the start of World War II. The course will also analyze the changing, destructive nature of 20th-century warfare and atrocities such as the Armenian Genocide and the Holocaust.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

us history A* 

US History (1 of 2) begins with the period of European exploration and the impact Europeans had on the lives of those native to North America. From there, the course traces the development of the English colonies in North America, the causes and effects of the American Revolution, and the ratification of the Constitution. Next, the course examines the causes of the War of 1812. Throughout the course, students will analyze sectionalism through events like westward expansion, the Civil War, and Reconstruction. The later part of the course examines the Indian Wars, immigration, and the Second Industrial Revolution. The ideas that shaped the history of those living in the United States are a particular focus of this course.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

us history B* 

US History (2 of 2) continues the story of the United States, encompassing the successes and failures of the nation in improving the human condition and espousing the unalienable rights that define the American spirit. It begins with the period of reform during the Gilded Age and Progressive Era, followed by World War I and the economic boom of the era known as the “Roaring Twenties.” After a study of the Great Depression and the New Deal, the course then traces America’s involvement in World War II and the Cold War, and proxy conflicts like the Vietnam War and Korean War. Students learn about pivotal events in the second half of the 20th-century presidential administrations. The course examines domestic and global events as the United States emerges into the 21st century, including technology innovations, international communications, and the rise of terrorism. Along the way, the course explores some key individuals who contributed to the events and policies that have shaped the decades discussed within these lessons.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

economics* 

Economics explores principles that allow students to make informed decisions about personal finance. In this course, students develop a broader understanding of national and international economic decisions and policies. These principles will help students understand why economics impacts history, the distribution of wealth, and the quality of life for all members of society.

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

civics and government 

US Government provides students with basic knowledge of the history and philosophy of the United States government and its principles, which guide our democracy. Students will examine the United States Constitution to answer questions and determine the facts of government. They will also focus on the functions and duties of the three branches of government. Students pay special attention to political participation, citizens’ rights and responsibilities, and world government systems. Students will study political institutions to explore the US government’s history, organization, and functions.

This course prepares students to take the Naturalization Test designed by the United States federal government. The course is for high school students to fulfill the requirements for graduation. Civics: Citizenship allows students to engage with the government, where they will soon participate. This course provides real-world connections between democratic ideals and practical activities.

Credit Recovery Course Available

English IA* 

English I (1 of 2) is the first semester of the ninth-grade English Language Arts course. This course covers reading, writing, and analysis using informational and literary texts. As students read the selections in this course, they explore textual evidence, identify themes and central ideas, make inferences, analyze word choice, and recognize figurative and connotative language in various texts. As part of the course, students read the early fantasy novel The Princess and the Goblin by George MacDonald. Students also compare portrayals of both literary and informational content in different mediums. Grammar and usage lessons cover context and word function as clues to the meaning and function of words in various domains and dialects. Students learn how figures of speech can deepen meaning and how reference materials help build vocabulary skills. Students also complete two Writing Projects: a personal narrative (memoir) and a literary analysis.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

English IB* 

English I (2 of 2) is the second semester of the ninth-grade English Language Arts course. This course covers reading, writing, and analysis using informational and literary texts. As students read the selections in this course, they review concepts such as textual evidence, themes and central ideas, characters, and inferences. They also learn new concepts, including rhetorical techniques, structure and style, and arguments and claims. Students read the dystopian novella Anthem by Ayn Rand as part of the course. Students also compare works from different periods to identify how later works use earlier ones for inspiration. The grammar and usage lessons review context and word nuances. Students also learn about spelling conventions, style manuals, phrases and clauses, parallel structure, and colons and semicolons. They will also complete two Writing Projects: an informational essay and an argument essay.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ENGLISH IIA* 

English II (1 of 2) is the first semester of the 10th-grade English Language Arts course. This course covers reading, writing, and analyzing informational texts, argument texts, and videos. As students read the selections in this course, they explore explicit and inferred meaning through textual evidence, identify central ideas and details that support them, evaluate arguments and claims, recognize organizational structures, analyze figurative, connotative, technical, and rhetorical language, and assess the effects of word choice on tone in a variety of texts. Students recognize and use different reference sources and review spelling, grammar, usage, and punctuation rules, including semicolons and colons. Students learn new vocabulary, including domain-specific words, and identify context clues and patterns of word change with prefixes and suffixes. Students also complete two Writing Projects: an informational essay and an argument essay.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ENGLISH IIB* 

English II (2 of 2) is the second semester of the 10th-grade English Language Arts course. This course covers reading, writing, and analysis of literary texts from around the world and across history. As students read the selections, they practice strategies to recognize textual evidence, identify themes, make inferences, analyze all aspects of characterization, and identify figurative language, figures of speech, and literary devices. As part of the course, students read the Greek tragedy Antigone by Sophocles and write a character analysis based on one of the main characters. Language lessons review context clues and word nuances. Students also learn more about patterns that occur with affixes, evaluate the correct use of phrases and clauses, and identify parallel construction with gerunds and infinitives. In addition to the literary analysis essay, students complete a personal narrative essay.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ENGLISH IIIA* 

English III (1 of 2) is the first semester of the 11th-grade English Language Arts course. This course covers reading, writing, and analysis using informational and argument texts. As students read the selections in this course, they explore textual evidence, identify central ideas and supporting details, make inferences, analyze word choice, and recognize figurative and connotative language in various texts. As part of the course, students read seminal US texts such as “What to the Slave is the Fourth of July?” by Frederick Douglass and presidential speeches, court documents, and scientific articles. Grammar lessons cover context and word function as clues to meaning, spelling and hyphenation rules, and contested usage. Students learn how figures of speech can deepen meaning and how reference materials help build vocabulary skills. Students also complete two research-based Writing Projects: an informational essay and an argument essay.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ENGLISH IIIB*

English III (2 of 2) is the second semester of the 11th-grade English Language Arts course. This course covers reading, writing, and analysis using informational and literary texts. As students read the selections in this course, they learn about literary elements such as plot, setting, and character; themes and central ideas; and characteristics of poetry and drama. Students read the classic American play The Crucible by Arthur Miller as part of the course. Students also compare works from different periods to identify how later works use earlier ones for inspiration. The grammar and usage lessons review context and word nuances. Students also learn about style manuals, phrases and clauses, parallel structure, and colons and semicolons. Students also complete two Writing Projects: a fictional narrative and a literary analysis.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ENGLISH IVA* 

English IV is the first semester of the 12th-grade English Language Arts course. This course covers reading, writing, and analysis using informational and argument texts. As students read the selections in this course, they explore rhetoric, figurative language, theme and purpose, specialized vocabulary, text structure, word nuances, and more. As part of the course, students read seminal US texts such as the Declaration of Independence, presidential speeches, court documents, and articles related to innovative technology. Grammar lessons cover context clues, word patterns as clues to meaning, contested usage, and strategies for avoiding syntax errors. Students learn to make inferences, conduct research, evaluate evidence, and use reference resources. Students also complete two research-based Writing Projects: an informational essay and an argument essay.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ENGLISH IVB* 

This semester covers in-depth literary analysis using narrative texts from British literature— from the Middle Ages through modern times. The course builds in complexity, covering explicit and implicit meanings, figurative language, literary devices, central ideas, themes, and narrative and structural elements. Students write a fictional narrative in the style of Gothic Romanticism and a literary analysis comparing or contrasting two texts from different eras of British literature. These short and extended forms of writing emphasize the writing process, from note-taking and outline-making to revising and editing for content and style.

*Honors Course Available

*Credit Recovery Course Available

PRE-ALGEBRA

Students will start with the review of integers and rational numbers. They’ll then move into properties of numbers, including working with exponents and roots and mastering the order of operations. Students will learn about variables, simplifying expressions, and solving multi-step equations. Finally, they’ll study lines and linear equations, and along the way, they will work with ordered pairs, the coordinate plane, and graphs.

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ALGEBRA 1A* 

This course helps develop and strengthen students’ algebraic thinking and problem-solving skills. Students apply properties to simplify expressions with exponents and radicals and explore the relationships between rational and irrational numbers. Then, students solve linear equations using inverse operations and write and solve linear equations that model real-world situations. As they explore linear relationships, they graph lines from equations and tables and write linear equations that represent given graphs. They also solve linear inequalities and graph them on number lines and coordinate planes. Students solve and graph systems of linear equations and inequalities using their knowledge of linear equations and inequalities. Next, students apply operations on polynomials and explore factoring quadratic expressions. Finally, students solve quadratic equations by factoring, using the quadratic formula and technology, and they work with systems that contain quadratic equations.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ALGEBRA 1B* 

This course extends students’ algebraic understanding by applying what they know about linear and quadratic equations to the concept of functions. They also learn about square root and cube root functions and absolute value, piecewise, and step functions. Students identify key features, interpret functions presented as equations, graphs, tables, and verbal descriptions, and apply them to real-world problems. They will learn to use key features to compare different types of functions. The course then focuses on performing transformations of functions. Students learn to graph functions by transforming parent functions. The course concludes with a study of statistics, which helps students discover some of the fascinating ways to use math to explore the world.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

GEOMETRY A* 

In Geometry (1 of 2), students build upon their understanding of geometric concepts by working through various geometric problems, writing formal proofs, and constructing geometric figures. To explain the concepts of congruent and similar figures, we use transformations focusing on the properties of congruent and similar triangles. Students will learn to prove these properties with postulates, theorems, and formal proofs. The course wraps up with trigonometric ratios and their applications to real-world situations.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

GEOMETRY B* 

In this course, students will use the Pythagorean theorem, distance, midpoint, and slope formulas to solve geometric problems and develop coordinate proofs.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ALGEBRA 2A* 

In this course, students will review and expand on their knowledge of linear, quadratic, and exponential functions and broaden their understanding of polynomial and rational functions. They will work with interactive text, delve into example problems, and watch engaging instructional videos to enhance learning.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

ALGEBRA 2B* 

In this course, students learn about and work with rational and radical equations, graph radical functions, and extend their knowledge of trigonometric functions. Students work with interactive text, delve into example problems, and watch engaging instructional videos to enhance learning.

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

COLLEGE MATHEMATICS PREPARATION A* 

In this course, students model real-life situations with equations and inequalities, expand their skills by solving exponential equations with logarithms and synthesize and generalize a variety of function families. Each lesson of this course includes an interactive text, example problems, and related instructional videos.

Credit Recovery Course Available (PreCalculus A)

 

COLLEGE MATHEMATICS PREPARATION B* 

From construction to physics, the concepts in this course are used in real-world situations. In this course, students will learn how to make probability decisions and use basic statistics and sampling processes to understand data sets and answer questions about samples and populations.

Credit Recovery Course Available (PreCalculus B)

 

FINANCIAL MATH

Students learn to apply the skills they learn to solve real-life problems and analyze current financial issues of taxes, loans, car leases, mortgages, and insurance. They will use mathematical processes to study patterns and analyze data, algebraic formulas, graphs, and amortization modeling. Schools may use this course independently or pair it with Applied Mathematics to create a full-year Math Models course.

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

APPLIED MATH 

Students examine how artists, video game developers, and musicians apply mathematical concepts to create and even how biologists use mathematics to measure the distances between cells and gain new insights about the body. Students apply concepts from geometry, functions, probability, and statistics. Schools may use this course independently or pair it with Financial Mathematics to create a Math Models full-year course

*Credit Recovery Course Available

PHYSICAL SCIENCE A*

Physical Science (1 of 2) introduces the world of chemistry. Students will begin with an introduction to science and the basic methods and tools scientists use to produce meaningful results. Students then will explore the structure and properties of matter and how it changes in response to energy. Next, students will practice reading and interpreting the information on the periodic table and chemical names, formulas, equations, and models. Students will also discover the types and properties of reactions, mixtures, solutions, acids, and bases. Finally, students will examine nuclear reactions’ scientific principles and human applications. Throughout the course, students explore the course topics’ historical perspectives and modern social implications.

 

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

PHYSICAL SCIENCE B*

Physical Science (2 of 2) introduces students to physics. They will start by building a foundation of what it means to be scientific by describing how scientists think, communicate, and do their jobs. Next, students will cover important aspects of motion and force, including the motion of fluids and how motion relates to Newton’s laws. Building upon these fundamentals, students will explore the topics of thermodynamics, energy, work, and machines. The nature and properties of waves are covered next, and then students end by examining electricity and magnetism. Throughout the course, students will parallel their investigation into the scientific method with a course project that introduces them to the field and processes of engineering.

 

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

BIOLOGY A*

This biology course covers biochemistry basics and how it relates to life, which enhances students’ understanding of biology. Biology allows students to understand the organisms around them and how they affect systems on Earth. It also helps students understand themselves on a biological level. Students use logical thinking to identify relationships and draw conclusions. They evaluate topics in biology to better understand the basics of biochemistry, cells, membranes, cell division and reproduction, energy and metabolism, and photosynthesis.

 

Honors Course Available

 

Credit Recovery Course Available

 

BIOLOGY B*

This biology course covers the basics of genetics and the technology used to understand it better. Students will discover how organisms have evolved due to natural selection. They will also explore ecology, including how matter and energy flow through organisms and their ecosystems, and learn to see a bigger picture of their biological world.

 

During this course, students will apply ethical guidelines to biological research and engage in arguments about the ethical implications of current biotechnology. Students will also be able to model the flow of matter and energy in ecosystems and understand how changes to the flow affect organisms in their environment. Overall, students will evaluate topics in biology to better understand the basics of genetics, DNA and the genetic code, genomics, evolution, and ecology.

 

Honors Course Available

Credit Recovery Course Available

SPANISH 1A*

This introductory course will introduce students to Spanish language basics through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will learn to introduce themselves and others, discuss interests and hobbies, ask for directions, and more!

In addition to learning the language, students will also study the cultures of some Spanish-speaking countries. They will learn about daily life in Mexico, Spain’s history, Argentina’s cultural traditions, and more!

Students will participate in discussion boards, speaking practice, a culture project, and a speaking project.

Credit Recovery Course Available

SPANISH 1B*

This course is the second semester of year one of Spanish. Students will continue with the introduction to the basics of the Spanish language through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will learn to discuss school subjects, professions, daily routines, and likes and dislikes.

In addition to learning the language, students will study the cultures of Venezuela, Chile, Ecuador, Guatemala, and Cuba. Students will examine each country’s history, traditions, and practices.

Students will participate in discussion boards, speaking practice, a multimedia writing project, and a speaking project.

Credit Recovery Course Available

SPANISH 2A* 

This course is the first semester of year two of Spanish. Students will continue with the introduction to the basics of the Spanish language through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will learn how to discuss social relationships, climate, various animals, fables, holiday customs and traditions, and outdoor activities.

In addition to learning the language, students will also examine the cultures of Paraguay, Puerto Rico, El Salvador, Costa Rica, and Bolivia. Students will learn about each country’s history, products, traditions, practices, and perspectives.

Students will participate in discussion boards, speaking practice, writing a fable in Spanish, and a speaking project that will have the students ask questions and start and end conversations.

Credit Recovery Course Available

SPANISH 2B* 

This course is the second semester of year two of Spanish. Students will continue their Spanish language acquisition through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students will participate in discussion boards, speaking practices, writing projects, and speaking projects. Students will learn to discuss multiple topics such as transportation, extracurricular interests, significant historical figures of various countries, professions, cuisine, clothing, health, and technological advances. Students will be able to discuss these topics in the present, past, future, and conditional tenses, as well as the present subjunctive mood.

In addition to learning the language, students will study the cultures of the Dominican Republic, Equatorial Guinea, Honduras, Uruguay, and Panama. Students will learn about each country’s history, cultural products, traditions, practices, and perspectives.

Credit Recovery Course Available

SPANISH 3A 

Spanish 3 (1 of 2) is the first semester of year three of Spanish. Students will continue their Spanish language acquisition through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Discussion Boards, speaking practice, a writing project, and a speaking project offer further practice of these skills. Students will explore the topic of writing in Spanish by learning about informative, argumentative, and descriptive texts and the creative writing process. They will also learn about significant historical events in Spanish-speaking countries and cultural products, practices, philosophies, and public spaces. Students will discuss these topics in the indicative and subjunctive moods and the imperative.

Credit Recovery Course Available

SPANISH 3B 

Second Semester: Students will continue acquiring the Spanish language through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Students explore Spanish-language literature by learning about notable authors and reading and analyzing selected poems and short stories. They will also learn about behavioral norms in different Spanish-speaking cultures in various social contexts. Students will discuss these topics in the indicative and subjunctive moods in multiple tenses.

Credit Recovery Course Available

ART HISTORY: ORIGINS

In this course, students will journey through time, learning about prehistoric and ancient art, ancient Mediterranean and medieval art, and early European art from the Renaissance through Rococo. They will also learn how to read and interpret art on a fundamental level. Art is best learned through experience and expression, so students will have opportunities to experience the art and react to it through discussion boards and projects. The goal of this course is to show how art relates to life.

ART HISTORY: MODERN

In this course, students will journey into art history beginning in the late 1700s. At this time in Europe, political upheavals and scientific and technological advances led to exploration, innovation, and great wealth for many. They will study noteworthy Western art movements, artworks, artists, and architecture as they travel forward to the present. They will look at global art past and present, with travels to China, Japan, Africa, Oceania, Southeast Asia, India, and back to the Americas.

Along the way, they will have many opportunities to respond personally to all things art and share their insights with their peers through discussion boards. Three projects provide diverse, meaningful interactions with the art, the artists, and the movements.

BEGINNING DRAWING

In Drawing, students will use various art tools and materials to discover their unique properties and effects. Students will explore ordinary things around them to observe the structures and meanings of things seen in their homes and communities. They will study the forms, textures, movements, and patterns of the things they see daily.

Each project and each lesson builds on the previous one, so always do the lessons in order. Be sure to follow the directions regarding which materials, sizes, and subject matter to use for each project. Each lesson will be a study of a new way of drawing. The examples will show only the method and materials used, never the same subject or size as the project assigned. The examples are never to be copied. An example will only show one way of using the technique described.

Students will grow in artistic skill and enjoyment by becoming more observant, experimenting with new materials, and exploring various methods.

Beyond fundamental skills are various levels of creativity. Every lesson provides room for expressing the technical skill learned uniquely and creatively.  

BEGINNING PAINTING

This course introduces students to classical and contemporary painting techniques and concepts, emphasizing the understanding of its formal language and the fundamentals of artistic expression. Students will learn to paint from observation of still life, landscapes, and life models to achieve realism while exploring various painting styles. Emphasis will focus on color theory, linear perspective, compositional structure, figure/ground relationships, visual perception, spatial concepts, and critical thinking skills. Students will study and research major painting styles and movements in a historical context. The aim is for students to use this global approach to develop a “critical eye” in evaluating contemporary painting. Acrylic and watercolors are the mediums used in this class. The main emphasis of this course is to encourage and nourish individuality and creativity.

Please be aware that this course includes depictions of nudity, as many art movements celebrate the human form. Many important and influential works of art include nudity, and it would be nearly impossible to teach art history without including them. Given the subject matter, the course is extensively visual.

ANIMATION

Do you wonder what creating the next blockbuster animated movie would be like? Or do you want to make the next big video game? Do you have an eye for drawing, technology, and timing? If so, animation is the course for you! You will learn how to use animation tools to conceptualize and bring your creations to life. You’ll discover the ins and outs of creating 2D and 3D animation from start to finish. You’ll begin working on our design portfolio and get hands-on experience creating animation projects. Learning about animation could lead to a thriving career in the growing world of technology and animation.

ART IN WORLD CULTURES

Who do you think is the greatest artist of all time? Leonardo da Vinci? Michelangelo? Perhaps a more modern artist like Claude Monet or Pablo Picasso? Or is it possible that the greatest artist of all time is someone whose name is lost to history? In Art in World Cultures, you’ll learn about some of the greatest artists in the world while creating your art, both on paper and digitally. This course explores basic principles and elements of art and teaches you how to critique different artworks art. Along the way, you will discover some traditional art forms from various regions of the world, including the Americas, Africa, and Oceania.

CHARACTER EDUCATION 

In this course, students learn about the main character traits: truthfulness, trustworthiness, responsibility, diligence, integrity, respect, caring, and fairness. They analyze and interpret specific situations that demonstrate these traits. Then, in the next part of the course, students discover how to define and recognize bullying and cyberbullying, and they learn how they negatively impact everyone involved. Students develop a bullying prevention mindset by learning safe and appropriate strategies to respond to bullying situations. Finally, as members of their neighborhood, city, and country, students learn about good citizenship by describing the rights, duties, and privileges included.

CIVICS AND GOVERNMENT (CR) 

In this course, students will understand the significance of government, law, and politics. They will examine the United States foundational documents and how they shaped the United States government. Students will explore the purposes and functions of federal, state, and local government, the justice system, political systems, the environment, and the economy. Learners will evaluate their role and civic responsibility to their families, communities, and country, including voting and being productive members of society. Students will get to know leaders and influential people who have championed many causes, including civil rights and the environment. Learners will also learn proper ways to interact in society, including interpersonal skills and respecting differences in others, including those with disabilities. Learners will follow a step-by-step approach to completing each lesson, which includes textbook reading, interactive activities, supplemental reading, lectures, video clips, and PowerPoint presentations to enhance and reinforce learning. Learners receive frequent feedback from teachers and peers through discussions. By the end of the course, students will have a deep understanding of their civic responsibilities and the difference one individual can make in society.

CRIMINOLOGY AND JUSTICE* 

Criminology and Justice is a beginner-level course on crime and forensic procedures. This course covers the criminal justice system, non-forensic evidence, and what happens inside the courtroom. The course follows a storyline of two college interns who discover a series of connected crimes in a suburban setting, what they do with that information, and how they follow it through the justice procedures.

CRIMINOLOGY AND FORENSICS* 

Criminology and Forensics is for students with a beginner-level understanding of crime and forensic procedures.

The course encourages students to be introspective and intrigued by the topics in the course. It covers topics on crime and criminology, witnesses and perpetrators, and the crime lab. The course follows a storyline of two college interns who discover a series of connected crimes in a suburban setting.

COMPUTER BASICS 

This course will help students learn the basics of computer operations. They will learn basic software programs, word processing, spreadsheets, and presentations. Students also have the opportunity to improve their keyboard speed and accuracy.

CULINARY ARTS 1A

Are you considering a career in the food service industry or looking to develop your culinary skills? This introductory course will provide basic cooking and knife skills while preparing you to enter the culinary world. Discover the history of food culture, food service, and global cuisines while learning about food science principles and preservation. Finally, prepare for your future by building the professional, communication, leadership, and teamwork skills crucial to a culinary arts career.

CULINARY ARTS 1B 

Did you know that baking is considered a science? Building on the prerequisite course, discover how to elevate your culinary skills by creating stocks, soups, and sauces, and learn baking techniques. Examine sustainable food practices and the benefits of nutrition while maintaining taste, plating, and presentation to truly wow your guests. The last unit in this course explores careers in the culinary arts for ways to channel your newfound passion!

EARTH SCIENCE A 

The first three modules of Semester 1 cover Scientific Inquiry, the Structure and Composition of the Universe, and the Features of the Solar System. Students learn the importance of scientific inquiry and how to communicate the results of scientific investigations. They will study the universe’s formation, including the Big Bang Theory, the motions of celestial objects, and stellar evolution. The third module covers the Solar System, including features of the Sun, planets, and the movements of Earth. The second three modules of Semester 1 cover Weather, Climate, and Earth’s Water Cycle. In Module 4, Students study the atmosphere and clouds and the factors influencing local and global climate. In Module 5, they learn about weather, air masses, meteorology, and storms. Module 6 covers the water cycle, including groundwater, ocean features, water scarcity, and pollution.

EARTH SCIENCE A (CR) 

The first three modules of Semester 1 cover Scientific Inquiry, the Structure and Composition of the Universe, and the Features of the Solar System. Students learn the importance of scientific inquiry and how to communicate the results of scientific investigations. They will study the universe’s formation, including the Big Bang Theory, the motions of celestial objects, and stellar evolution. The third module covers the Solar System, including features of the Sun and the planets and the movements of Earth. The second three modules of Semester 1 cover Weather, Climate, and Earth’s Water Cycle. In Module 4, Students study, students learn about the atmosphere and clouds and the factors that influence local and global climate. In Module 5, they continue learning about weather, air masses, meteorology, and storms. Module 6 covers the water cycle, including groundwater, ocean features, and water scarcity and pollution.

EARTH SCIENCE B 

The first three modules of Semester 2 cover the physical structure of the Earth and its tectonic system, including the rock cycle, tectonic activity, and mountain building. It also covers weathering erosion and soil formation. The course addresses the concept of systems, the Earth as a system, feedback in systems, and the Earth’s primary nutrient cycles. The second three modules of Semester 2 cover geologic history, including the evolution of Earth’s atmosphere, the geologic time scale, and the fossil record. It then goes over natural resources and the effects of human population on natural resources. The course covers human society and its interconnectedness with the Earth’s environment, how science and technology work together, and the technological design process in earth science applications.

EARTH SCIENCE B (CR) 

The first three modules of Semester 2 cover the physical structure of the Earth and Earth’s tectonic system, including the rock cycle, tectonic activity, and mountain building. It then covers weathering erosion and soil formation. The course addresses the concept of systems, the Earth as a system, feedback in systems, and the Earth’s primary nutrient cycles. The second three modules of Semester 2 cover geologic history, including the evolution of Earth’s atmosphere, the geologic time scale, and the fossil record. It then goes over natural resources and the effects of human population on natural resources. The course covers human society and its interconnectedness with the Earth’s environment, how science and technology work together, and the technological design process in earth science applications.

ECONOMICS*

Economics explores principles that allow students to make informed decisions about personal finance. In this course, students develop a broader understanding of national and international economic decisions and policies. These principles will help students understand why economics impacts history, the distribution of wealth, and the quality of life for all members of society.

ECONOMICS* (CR) *ACCELERATE 

This course introduces the principles and the applications of economics in everyday life. Students develop an understanding of limited resources and compare them with unlimited wants and needs. Students learn how individual and national economic decisions are made to allocate goods and services among competing users. Students apply economic principles to think and problem-solve. The study of Economics uses the view of financial institutions and policies to explore the history, organization, and functions of the U.S. government in controlling our economy. It offers students learning opportunities that build one on another. A goal of the course is for the student to develop the critical skills of analysis, synthesis, and evaluation in a demanding and thoughtful academic setting. Students are encouraged to use their knowledge of the policies and institutions of economics to develop their views on current economic and monetary issues. They learn how to apply learnings to personal financial activities. The course looks closely at the country’s economic knowledge and values and gives students a look into the problems faced by presidents and congressional representatives. It also covers the roles of political activists, political parties, interest groups, and the media in shaping the U. S. economy. The course presents the Supreme Court as the voice of reason in the balance of powers. Students are encouraged to perform at higher levels as they examine historical documents and additional readings, work with a set of facts arranged by theme, become skillful in note-taking, and join student discussions. Students develop and demonstrate their writing skills by preparing extended research-based papers.

FASHION DESIGN* 

In Fashion Design, students learn the basics of what it takes to have a career in fashion design. They explore the foundations of fashion design, including colors, fabrics, and fashion design tools. The course is graded based on the student’s ability to demonstrate knowledge through two multi-step projects, a series of checkpoints, and a final exam.

FINANCIAL LITERACY*

We all know money is essential in life. But how essential? Your financial decisions today may have a lasting effect on your future. Rather than feeling anxious about finances, feel empowered by learning to make wise decisions! Personal and Family Finance will begin the conversation around spending and saving money wisely, investing in safe opportunities, and the days ahead. Learning key financial concepts around taxes, credit, and money management will provide both understanding and confidence as you begin to navigate your route to future security. Discover how education, career choices, and financial planning can lead you in the right direction to making your life simpler, steadier, and more enjoyable.

GAMING UNLOCKED 

We’ve been playing games for thousands of years. Man has loved to find ways to entertain himself. In this course, the student becomes the game master!

Students will learn the basics of gaming, from what makes a game fun to what makes a game work. They will explore all types of games in this course, from mental to board and video games. The course focuses on developing students’ ability to recognize good gameplay mechanics and the steps necessary to produce a game. This course will NOT require students to know or learn a programming language. The emphasis is on the history and design of games and learning about the different careers available in the game industry.

HEALTH (CR) 

This course teaches students the knowledge and skills they need to lead a healthy life. Semester A focuses on the impact of personal decisions on the student’s health. Students learn to find, evaluate, and use reliable information on multiple health topics. They also study the basic science behind nutrition, exercise, stress, and psychology and examine how these factors affect a person’s overall health. Each lesson in the course guides students in applying what they have learned in the lesson to their own lives and choices—and gives them a chance to discuss the topic with peers and instructors.

HEALTH 101 

This course provides an overview of how behavior affects health. Students learn about nutrition and physical activity; growth, development, and sexual health; injury and safety prevention; alcohol, tobacco, and other drugs; mental, emotional, and social health; and personal and community health. Students also explore how their choices about their bodies affect their present and future. They learn tools to make informed decisions to better their health.

INTRODUCTION TO GRAPHIC AND WEB DESIGN* 

This course is an introduction to how, through design, students can communicate visually with one another. Each unit will cover topics such as the principles and elements of design or printing and publishing projects. By understanding the foundation of visual communication through design, this course will be a great introduction to a career path in this field.

INTRODUCTION TO INTERIOR DESIGN*

Interior Design is a foundational course where students learn the fundamentals of interior design, including the principles and elements of design. Students will learn the necessary skills, attributes, roles, and responsibilities of interior designers. The course covers different domains and specialties within the field of interior design. Additional course content includes the history of design, materials designers use, and information on furniture, furnishings, and accessories. The course covers how the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), universal design, and green design affect the field of interior design. The student is graded based on discussion boards, lesson checkpoints, one unit project, and a final exam.

MILITARY CAREERS 

Most of us have seen a war movie; maybe it had a hotshot aviator, a renegade private, or a daring Special Forces operative. But outside of these sensationalized portrayals, do you understand how the military works or what it can do for you? The military offers far more career diversity than most people imagine. Introduction to Military Careers will provide the information you need to gain a broader understanding of how to find the right fit. You will learn about the five military branches – Air Force, Army, Coast Guard, Marines Corps, and Navy – and examine which jobs you may want to pursue. From aviation to medicine to law enforcement, the military can be an outstanding place to achieve your dreams in a supportive and well-structured environment.

MUSIC APPRECIATION* 

Have you ever heard a piece of music that made you want to get up and dance? Cry your heart out? Sing at the top of your lungs? Whether pop, classical, or anything in between, music provides a powerful way for people to celebrate their humanity and connect with something larger than themselves. Music Appreciation: The Enjoyment of Listening will offer a historical perspective on music from the Middle Ages to the 21st century and teach you how to listen and hear (with a knowledgeable ear) the different music around you. Learning to appreciate sound and melody is the best way to ensure a continued love of this delightful art form.

PERSONAL FITNESS A-Required for Graduation

Students explore key concepts from combative sports, gymnastics and tumbling, and various team sports and activities. Students also focus on advanced fitness guidelines, motor skill development, game strategy, and the physical, emotional, and cognitive factors that affect performance. Throughout the course, students evaluate their fitness by setting goals, designing an exercise plan, and tracking their results.

PERSONAL FITNESS B-Required for Graduation

Students explore how to develop physical fitness plans for themselves and others. They begin by learning how to assess fitness levels, as well as how to set and modify fitness goals. Students also learn to become savvy consumers by evaluating fitness products and programs. In addition, they explore ways to become the best leaders they can be. Students exercise throughout the course because this is a physical education course. They will have the freedom to participate in physical activities that they enjoy. To track their progress, they maintain a daily physical activity log.

PHOTOGRAPHY BASICS*

In Photography Basics, students will learn to explain the setup and proper use of basic photography equipment correctly. Through projects and research activities embedded in the course, students will create and present a portfolio of work. In addition, students will learn to describe professional habits, etiquette, and technology essential to creating a photograph. Access to photography equipment is not needed to take the course; opportunities to practice with digital simulations and theory will be present throughout the course. This course is for beginners interested in learning about photography and what it could take to make a career out of an interest in this exciting, dynamic field of study. Photography Basics is for ninth grade or higher. A background in photography is not necessary to take this course.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 1A-Required for Graduation

In this course, students will learn about the importance of physical activity and personal fitness, aspects of sport and recreation, and healthy eating habits. Students will evaluate their fitness, design an exercise plan, and track their results throughout the course.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 1A & 1B (CR)

Physical Education encompasses learning how to live and maintain a healthy lifestyle. This course covers physical fitness, why it is essential, how to have a healthy attitude, and how to stick with a healthy game plan. In this ever-changing world, physical fitness becomes more important and challenging to find the time for. This course allows the student to discover how to make physical fitness a part of their daily life and that it is attainable. This course leads the student to discover healthy behaviors and sets the tone for physical fitness and healthy exercise. PE for a Healthy Lifestyle will examine the emotional, physical, and scientific factors that impact physical performance. This course is for anyone, ranging from the beginner to advanced abilities.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 1B-Required for Graduation

In this course, students learn about the fundamentals of exercise science, including principles of the relevant body systems, fitness testing, training, and program design. Students will evaluate their fitness, design an exercise plan, and track their results throughout the course.

SPORTS & ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING*

Whether watching a famous athlete make an unbelievable play or witnessing a sensational singing performance, the world of sports and entertainment is never dull. Although it may seem impossible for you to be a part of this glittery world, it’s not! The Sports and Entertainment Marketing field offers careers combining entertainment with traditional marketing but with much more glamour. Explore basic marketing principles while delving deeper into the multi-billion dollar sports and entertainment industry. Learn how professional athletes, sports teams, and famous entertainers are marketed as commodities and how the savvy people who handle these deals can become very successful. This course will show you exactly how things work behind the scenes of a major entertainment event and how you can be part of the act.

THEATER, CINEMA, & FILM PRODUCTION* 

Lights! Camera! Action! Let’s explore the enchanting world of live theater and its fascinating relationship to the silver screen. In Theater, Cinema, and Film Production, you’ll learn the basics of lighting, sound, wardrobe, and camerawork while examining the magic that happens behind all the drama. Delve into the glamorous history of film and theater and explore these industries’ tremendous influence on society and culture. During this unit, you’ll discuss and analyze three classic American films, “Casablanca, Singing in the Rain, and The Wizard of Oz,” to help you learn how to critique and appreciate some of the most famous dramas of all time.

WORLD GEOGRAPHY & CULTURES A (CR)* 

The student will learn basic map reading skills and development, geographic technology, and the recognition of geographic themes to make sense of the world. The course examines world regions, including the nations, people, and cultures of the Americas and Western Europe.

WORLD GEOGRAPHY & CULTURES B (CR)* 

This second-semester course continues to teach the basic skills of map reading and development, the use of geographic technology, and the recognition of geographic themes. The focus examines the world regions, including the nations, people, and cultures of Central Europe and Northern Eurasia, Central and Southwest Asia, South Asia, Africa, East Asia, and the Pacific.

ap courses

AP English Language and Composition

AP English Literature and Composition

AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus BC

AP Biology

AP Chemistry

credit recovery

Our Credit Recovery courses are designed to serve students seeking to recapture credit for courses previously taken. Our credit recovery courses are in the same scope and sequence as the original credit courses. However, some teacher-graded assignments have been removed from the course to accelerate the student’s path.