COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
1 = First Semester Only
2 = Second Semester Only
3 = Same Course Offered Both Semesters
4 = Full Year Course
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REQUIRED COURSES
General Science - 4
General Science is a two semester course. All freshmen are required to take both semesters. It is an integrated program of earth, life, physical, and environmental science. The emphasis will be on critical thinking and applications to today’s society and environment.
A test-out for ninth grade General Science is given each spring. This test will be administered at Valley Southwoods Freshman High School by the science department. It is the responsibility of the student and his/her parent/guardian to provide transportation to Valley Southwards on the test date at the appointed time.
Students may not use books or notes during the test, but they may use calculators. The test will be graded by teachers in the science department. Students will be notified by their junior high counselor if they meet the requirements to test-out of General Science, which is a score of 80% or above on the exam. Each student who passes the test-out exam, along with his or her parent/guardian will meet a team leader in the Valley Southwoods Forum on a Wednesday to be determined following the testing.
Biology (9th grade)- 4
Prerequisite: Meets Entrance Criteria
This two-semester course exposes the student to the variety of living organisms found on the planet. Life functions are studied on the chemical, cellular, organism, and community levels. Genetics, diseases, nutrition, and biotechnology are studied with an emphasis directed toward human concerns. Laboratory participation is a vital component of this course and is expected of all students.
Language and Literature- 4
This is a two-semester course designed to expose students to multiple genres of literature and modes of writing. Literary genres will include: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama, with an emphasis on contemporary multicultural and classic literature, including Homer’s Odyssey andShakespeare’s The Tragedy of Romeo and Juliet. This course will focus on vocabulary, writing conventions, multiple novel studies, literature circles, the Hero’s Journey, film analysis, and technology integration. Students will be expected to participate in class discussions and share their writing with teachers and peers.
Accelerated Language and Literature/Fundamentals of Writing- 4
Prerequisite: Meets Entrance Requirements
This course is a compacted two-semester course resulting in 2 credits in Language Arts for graduation from Valley High School. This rigorous course exposes advanced students to multiple genres of literature and modes of writing. Literary genres will include: fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama with an emphasis on multicultural and world literature, and the Hero’s Journey concept. The course will cover the major literary pieces of the Language and Literature class at a much faster pace and a deeper level, and will include other more challenging material. Writing modes will include: expository, persuasive, personal narrative, literary analysis, and research writing. The course will also include a strong emphasis on vocabulary and conventions. Students will also be expected to complete independent reading assignments during the school year. A summer independent reading and journaling requirement based on the novel, To Kill a Mockingbird, and several short reading selections will be addressed in the curriculum during 1st Quarter. (Students registered for the class are expected to attend a spring informational meeting at Valley Southwoods to receive the Summer Coursework Packet, textbooks, and general information. Qualifying students, either from within the district or move-ins, who enroll after the spring meeting should receive materials and textbooks from Valley Southwoods Team Leaders as soon as possible.
Basic Math 9- 4
Basic Math 9 is a two semester course for students needing additional mathematical skill development before enrolling in Algebra related courses. This course will build on concepts covered in Basic Math 7 and Basic Math 8.
Algebra A- 4
Algebra A is a two-semester course which uses the same text and course outline as Algebra B. Algebra A is designed to provide students with a basic foundation in algebraic principles. Content includes: solving and graphing equations and inequalities, systems of equations, exponents, factoring and solving word problems.
Algebra B- 4
Algebra B is a two-semester course which is designed to provide students with an in-depth understanding of algebraic principles. Content includes: solving and graphing equations and inequalities, systems of equations, exponents, factoring, algebraic fractions and quadratic equations.
Geometry- 4
Prerequisite: Algebra
Geometry is a two semester course which involves the development and study of a mathematical system. This course is designed to review and strengthen algebraic skills, develop deductive and inductive reasoning ability, and increase spatial perception. The topics include principles of logic, parallelism, congruence, similarity, circles, spheres, constructions and loci, areas, volumes, coordinate geometry, and transformations. Geometry will enable students to move into either Algebra II and Trigonometry B or Algebra II and Trigonometry C.
Physical Education- 4
The physical education curriculum is designed to provide rigorous physical activities to maintain and enrich the quality of life. The curriculum also helps develop movement skills in activities through which students will acquire, appreciate and maintain physical fitness essential to health and well-being throughout life. Physical education at Valley Southwoods is a required course. The curriculum consists of units including health and fitness concepts with basic fitness testing and assessment, volleyball, rhythm and aerobics, and weight training. Letter grades will be assigned and included in the grade point average.
If a student is not able to participate in a physical education class, a note from the parent/guardian will be honored excusing him or her for one class period only. Absences for more than one class at a time will require a doctor’s excuse stating a specific reason. The doctor’s excuse must be presented to the school nurse.
Students are required to wear special clothing (black shorts, white tee-shirt, athletic shoes) during class which will be communicated by the physical education teacher. Students are responsible for keeping their clothing in clean and good condition. It is recommended every article of clothing be plainly marked with the student’s first and last name.
Geographical Cultural Studies- 4
This class is a broad-based investigation of world regions. The course focuses on the geography and cultures of Latin America, the Middle East, East Asia, Sub-Saharan Africa, Antarctica, and the Pacific World. In addition to these area studies, the course will emphasize the five themes of geography: map skills, research skills, and current global issues. This social studies course will integrate with the ninth grade core courses and electives.
Accelerated Geographical Cultural Studies- 1
Prerequisite: Meets Entrance Criteria
This rigorous first-semester course covers both regular semesters of GCS at the 9th grade level. It will focus on the following regions: Latin America, Sub Saharan Africa, Europe, East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, Pacific World, and the Middle East with emphasis on map skills, place-name location geography, and current events including class participation and discussions. Because this is a one semester course, the pace will be stepped up. Therefore students entering this course must be highly motivated and will be expected to read course materials, take notes, develop study guides, and complete projects outside class time. Students who enroll in this course will also be enrolled in Ancient Western Civilization second semester. Successful completion of this course and Ancient Western Civilization will allow students to be eligible for AP Europe in the 10th grade.
Ancient Western Civilization- 2
Prerequisite: Meets Entrance Criteria
Ancient Western Civilization is offered second semester and will survey the critical eras in European history from the ancient world through the Middle Ages. Students can expect that knowledge in history, art, literature, philosophy, and cultures will be explored during the semester course. Successful completion of this course and the first semester Accelerated Geographical Cultural Studies course will allow students to be eligible for AP Europe in the 10th grade.
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ELECTIVE COURSES
BUSINESS ELECTIVES
Keyboarding 1- 3
This one semester course is designed for students who have had little or no previous keyboarding experience. It is a must for students entering college or the world of work. Students will use microcomputers to learn letter, number, and symbol keys. In addition, students will learn to format term papers and letters to colleges and businesses.
FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE
Consumer Technology- 3
Consumer Technology is a one-semester course in which students learn life management skills that will help them balance work and family through the use of technology and hands-on experiences. The classroom is divided into 13 modules that the students rotate through on a 6-day rotation. Students will have the opportunity to work through approximately 10 of the 14 modules. Basic life skills are taught making the student aware of their role as a family member and a productive member of the work place.
Art – Photographic Foundations- 3
Photographic Foundations is an introductory-level course and requires no previous photography experience. The course will investigate cameras and basic darkroom skills, including processing and printing black and white images.
Art – Three Dimensional Foundations- 3
Three Dimensional Foundations is an introductory level course and requires no previous art experience. The course will investigate ceramic and metal skills, including wheel throwing and metal fabricating. Materials fee covers basic ceramic, metal and presentation supplies. This course will provide a foundation for further study in Applications Level art courses at Valley High School.
Art – Two Dimensional Foundations- 3
Two Dimensional Foundations is an introductory level course and requires no previous art experience. The course will investigate drawing and painting skills, including airbrushing and printmaking. Materials fee covers basic drawing, painting, and presentation supplies. This course will provide a foundation for further study in Applications Level art courses at Valley High School.
Band – Ninth Grade- 4
Freshman Band is scheduled daily and covers curriculum including Concert Band, Marching Band, and Jazz Band as well as chamber playing. The Concert Band is the focused center of the curriculum with enriched playing opportunities form within the ensemble. Concerts are scheduled throughout the year and are a significant part of the curriculum. All students are provided with lessons as part of continuous improvement of skills and abilities. Students cover a wide range of quality literature appropriate to their level of ability. Instruction on a daily basis includes work within the ensemble as well as sectionals for smaller group instruction. Solo/Ensembles as well as chamber group experiences will be offered to all members. Students will participate second semester in one of several district events as part of the curriculum.
The Jazz Band is selected from members of the Concert Band during the first quarter and rehearses before school. All students who have an interest in jazz are encouraged to participate. Curriculum is based on the study of improvisation as well as ensemble skills at wide range of levels and abilities. The group will perform at several concerts as well as festivals throughout the year.
The focus on marching fundamentals takes place in the fall and spring through the Marching Band program. All students participate in All City Band Nights as well as spring parade performances. Students with a strong desire to advanced marching experiences may audition for the Valley Marchmasters.
The Valley Marchmasters function during the fall and spring marching seasons. In addition to all home football games, the marching band attends out-of-town performances in the fall and various performing trips out of state. Auditions are held in the spring and require attendance at Fall Band Camp as well as early morning and first hour rehearsals during the first quarter.
Chorus – Bass Clef- 4
Membership in this full year class is open to students who show an interest in singing. The chorus is designed for those who sing in the tenor-bass range. Vocal instruction is directed toward the development of the adolescent changing voice, with careful attention given to the special qualities and problems of the voice at this age level. Vocal lessons are a significant part of the curriculum. Vocal and musical skills developed here can prepare students to participation in A Capella Choir and Valley Singers. This group performs at concerts, contests, conventions, and community functions.
Chorus – Treble Clef- 4
Membership in this full year class is open to students who show an interest in singing. The chorus is designed for students who sing in the soprano-alto range. Vocal lessons are a significant part of the curriculum. Vocal and musical skills developed here can prepare students for participation in A Capella Choir and Valley Singers. This group performs at concerts, contests, conventions, and community functions.
Chorus – Southwoods Singers- 4
Prerequisite: Membership in Bass or Treble Clef Chorus. Auditions will take place in the spring of the student’s 8th grade year.
An auditioned chamber group that will explore and perform a variety of select chamber music. They will gain a greater understanding of advanced vocal technique for the mixed ensemble. Included in the curriculum with be the study of the composers and styles of vocal music for the chamber ensemble. The class will meet alternating days throughout the year and will receive one half credit. The auditioned Southwoods Singers will have approximately five concerts as well as State Solo and Ensemble Contest.
Orchestra – 9th Grade- 4
Valley Southwoods Orchestra students attend daily string orchestra rehearsals and weekly private and semi-private lessons in this full year course. Symphony Orchestra rehearsals take place before, during and after school depending on student schedules and needs. Orchestra students have the opportunity to perform in chamber ensembles that meet based on student availability. The Valley Southwoods Orchestra students perform in concerts, festivals and contests.
Debate I/Public Speaking- 4
In this year-long course, each student will develop debate and public speaking skills. Debate will include research, preparation, presentation and evaluation of policy debate, Lincoln-Douglas debate, public forum and legislative debate. Public speaking will include oratorical and extemporaneous speaking, and interpretation of literature. Students will be required to participate in co-curricular activities beyond the school day. Requiring advanced reading comprehension and analytical skills, this rigorous course is intended for self-motivated students who can work both cooperatively and independently. This course fills the Speech graduation requirement. A debate course is required for all debate team members and all member of the class will participate on the debate team. All students will compete in Debate I/Public Speaking in one tournament at no cost to the student.
Speech/Composition- 4
Prerequisite: Both semesters of Language and Literature or test-out
This full year course is an integration of Speech Communication and Fundamentals of Writing with focus on both written and oral communication skills. Writing concepts and activities include expository, narrative and persuasive essays and literary analysis with enrichment in grammar, vocabulary, and writing process skills. Speech communication concepts and activities include development of interpersonal skills, intrapersonal awareness, and the organizational and delivery skills of public speaking. Emphasis is placed on topic selection and development and research skills. Students who feel the personalized environment of a full-year course would be beneficial to them are encouraged to register for this course, which fulfills both the Speech Communication and Fundamentals of Writing requirements.
Theatrics- 3
This course will satisfy the fine arts requirement for graduation. This one semester course encourages the development of self and group awareness. It will emphasize teacher culture, performance and appreciation. National Standards for the Arts will be addressed through script writing, oral interpretation, criticism, research, history, movement, ensemble work and careers.
Technology Education- 3
Technology Education is a one semester course in which students use a hands-on approach to explore, develop skills, and apply technology to specific topics. This classroom is divided into several different stations. Each station addresses a specific topic, or unit, which requires students to use a variety of high technology tools and instruments. Pairs of students cycle through these stations every 10 to 12 days. Students will benefit from practical experiences in the operation and application of tools and systems such as computers, CD-ROM, milling machines, technical simulations, and information retrieval systems. Students will gain skills in experimentation, problem solving and communication, as well as exploring personal interests, aptitudes and strengths.
Examples of these stations are: robotics, computer aided drafting, aerodynamics, fluid power, electronics, computer animation, aviation, CNC milling, graphic communication, mechanical systems, structural engineering, and controls and sensors.
French I- 4
A full year course designed to develop the student’s skill in listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Successful completion of first year French should enable the students to engage in simple conversations and to read and write French within reasonable limits. The language lab is an integral part of the course and an important supplement to speaking and listening comprehension. The student will also be exposed to the culture of France.
French II- 4
Prerequisite: Successful completion of French I
A full year course with the goal of maintaining and improving the skills acquired in first year French with emphasis on listening, speaking, reading and writing. The language lab is an integral part of the course and an important supplement to speaking and listening comprehension. The student will continue to learn about France and other French speaking countries.
German I- 4
This full year course is an introduction to the German language and to the culture of Germany, Austria and Switzerland. After one year, the student will be able to converse, read and write standard German at the novice level.
Japanese I- 4
Japanese I is a full-year course which introduces Japanese language and culture. The four language skills of listening, speaking, reading and writing will be developed, but emphasis will be on oral proficiency.
Latin I- 4
Latin I is a full year course which involves learning to read and write the Latin language. Although Latin is not spoken in the modern world, this course emphasizes correct pronunciation of conversational idioms based upon ancient authors, its relationship to all the Romance languages and English, as well as providing a structural basis for spoken languages which use case - such as Russian and German. Latin trains the memory, enhances word power, provides the opportunity to develop reasoning ability, and strengthens reading skills. The first year also includes Roman culture, mythology and history.
Spanish I- 4
Spanish I, a full year course, is an introduction to the Spanish language and the culture of Spanish-speaking countries. Speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills will be developed through varied classroom activities. Students will gain a basic working vocabulary for communication. Language lab activities, written and oral, are required.
Spanish II- 4
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish I or teacher recommendation.
Spanish II is a full year course which emphasizes continued development of listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills in addition to appreciation of the various Spanish-speaking cultures. These skills will be further developed through individual and class projects, and supplemental books and tapes. Language lab activities, written and oral, are required.
ELL Work Study- 3
A course students may sign up for each semester they are entitled to ELL resources. Students are expected to work at least 15 hours per week and be employed for at least 14 weeks to obtain credit. Students are responsible for obtaining their own employment, as well as providing transportation to/from the job. An ELL teacher will visit the jobsite 2 times/semester. Students will be required to meet with teacher weekly and turn in a time sheet. Students will complete a culminating activity as arranged by the teacher and student. Seniors may waive physical education requirements while enrolled in ELL work study.
English as a Second Language (ESL)- 3
Non-English or limited English speaking students are enrolled in ESL class after a period of evaluation by the ESL teacher. Program objectives are as follows:
- To teach students the skills in speaking, listening, reading and writing which will allow them to function in high school.
- To help students understand and participate in American cultural life.
- To assist students in learning to use English as a natural vehicle of communication.
Two semesters of ESL may be counted as fulfilling two of the six high school language arts requirements, one literature course and one elective. Six semesters of ESL may be counted as elective credits used to fulfill graduation requirements. Additionally, ESL students may utilize the Pass/No Pass option when taking required courses.
Transitional English for Non-Native Speakers- 4
This two-semester course will use developmentally appropriate materials for English Language Learners to learn and master the major concepts of English literature and writing. The course will provide non-native speakers with an overview of English concepts needed for success in future English classes. Teachers will integrate individualized instruction in word usage, mechanics, parts of speech and syntax into writing assignments and class discussions appropriate for the English language abilities of the students enrolled. This course will fulfill the Language and Literature requirement or an elective credit and will prepare students for Fundamentals of Writing and Speech.
Extended Learning Program (ELP)- 3
Prerequisite: Invitation and parent permission
This program is designed for identified gifted and talented students (invitation is based upon selection into the gifted and talented program and is limited) who wish to continue their individual development through autonomous enrichment activities. Meeting on alternate days, the course is based upon the Autonomous Learner Model and will allow individual development through self-awareness and in-depth studies. Students may choose to work on special academic needs, to create and implement seminars, or to become involved in various academic competitions. Since the program builds on each year, it can be repeated for a maximum of four years and four credits. (1/2 credit per semester.)
Healthy Dimensions PE- 4
In this class, an individualized physical education plan will be created for students with low physical fitness levels or with limited physical or psychological conditions, which limit participation in the regular PE curriculum. The students in this class would not qualify for Peer Partner PE.
Learning Lab 9 (ATR Program)- 3
A resource teacher will serve identified students in need of academic, social or emotional assistance. The teacher will work with students individually and in small groups as appropriate. (1/2 credit per semester)
Peer Partner PE- 3
In this class, MD and PD students participate with Valley Southwoods volunteer students in a modified curriculum and level of activity resulting in a safer environment and enhanced learning possibilities. Student volunteers will be chosen through a screening process and will receive ½ elective credit. Volunteers will take their regular PE class in addition.
Reading Resource- 3
The Reading Resource teacher assumes an active role by diagnosing reading needs of students and providing a variety of reading, writing, and study strategies and instruction to support student success. The teacher will work with students through individual conferencing and in small groups as appropriate. Students and teacher work together both in the regularly scheduled Reading Resource class and in students’ core courses of English, science, and social studies. The teacher collaborates with teachers of core courses to integrate reading strategies with content level materials. (1/2 credit per semester)
Special Education
Special education services are determined for individual students by a staffing team consisting of the parents, school staff and Heartland AEA representatives. The district provides a broad continuum of services to assist students with disabilities.
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