High School Course Descriptions

Art
Art I A/B: Drawing and Painting (Open to 10th, 11th and 12th grade)
  • A year long course designed to introduce students to drawing and painting at the high school level. One semester will be devoted to each discipline. Students will explore and practice fundamental skills with regard to the elements of art and the principles of design and their relationship to basic composition. In the course of the class, students will experiment with a variety of drawing and painting media, methods and techniques.
​
Art II A/B: Advanced Art (Open to 11th and 12th grade)
Prerequisite:  Successful completion of Art I
  • This course is designed for serious minded art students wishing to further develop their skills.  Students will continue to study the fundamentals of art that began in Art I including the elements and principles of art.  Emphasis is placed on the media of pottery, printmaking and black and white photography.  The course is designed to complete the foundation necessary for Art III independent study

Art III A/B: Independent Art (Open to 12th grade)
Prerequisites:
  • Successful completion of Art I.
  • Successful completion of Art II—this MAY be negotiable for those who entered Art I as juniors rather than sophomores.
  • See the instructor before registering
  • Art III is an independent style class where upper level art students monitor/pace themselves throughout the quarter to complete required work.  Students in this class should have a solid foundation in artistic processes and media.  Thus, a major goal of the course is for students to focus more on growth, creativity and expression in their artworks.  In other words, to create works of art which are more personal.  Throughout the year, students will explore up to four different media. ​
English 
ENGLISH 12A/B: Speech & British Literature 
Semester One: Speech
  • Students will prepare and deliver three formal assignments: Speech to Inform, Persuasive Speech, and Visual-Aid Demonstration Speech.
  • During both semesters, students may also be actively engaged in the Accelerated Reader Program and various vocabulary assignments from the Great Sources Vocabulary for Achievement workbook.
Semester Two: British Literature
  • Students will read and study Macbeth. Upon completion of play, students will engage in a writing assignment. Students will also read a variety of short stories, poems and novel excerpts, all focusing on British Literature. Finally, students will be required to read a novel and will write a short paper upon completion.

COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH A/B: Speech & American Literature 
Semester One: Speech
  • Students will prepare and deliver four formal assignments: Serious Prose, Informative Speech, Persuasive Speech, and a Visual-Aid Demonstration Speech.
Semester Two: Literature/Writing
  • The curriculum and requirements in this class are designed for the student who is planning on attending a two-year or a four-year college.  The course helps to prepare students for college level coursework.  Students will be exposed to and will study a variety of literary genres with a focus on the speaking, reading, and writing skills needed for academic success.

ENGLISH 11A/B: American Literature, Mythology, & Research Paper
Semester One: American Literature
  • Students will read a variety of short stories, poems, plays, and/or novels that pertain to American Literature. Possible novels include The Scarlet Letter and/or the Huckleberry Finn. Upon completion of the novels, students will complete a persuasive paper. Students will also read and study Hamlet. Writing assignments and projects will follow each selection.
Semester Two: Mythology and Research Paper
  • Students will read, take notes and test out of selected chapters from Edith Hamilton’s Mythology. Students will also During both semesters, students may also be actively engaged in the Accelerated Reader Program, vocabulary assignments from the Great Sources Vocabulary for Achievement workbook, and various grammar assignments.

ENGLISH 10A/B
Semester One and Semester Two
  • Students will read and study a variety of short stories, poems, and plays. Plays may include Twelve Angry Men and Our Town. Students will also read the novel Lord of the Flies.  Writing assignments and projects will follow each reading selection. Special emphasis will be given to getting students ready for the MCA Reading Test in the spring.
  • During both semesters, students may also be actively engaged in the Accelerated Reader Program, vocabulary assignments from the Great Sources Vocabulary for Achievement workbook, and various grammar assignments.

ENGLISH 9A/B    
Semester One and Semester Two
  • Students will read and study a variety of short stories, poems, and plays. Plays may include Romeo and Juliet, The Miracle Worker and Antigone. Students may also read a novel.  Writing assignments and projects will follow each reading selection. Special emphasis will be given to getting students ready for the MCA Writing Test in the spring.
  • During both semesters, students may also be actively engaged in the Accelerated Reader Program, vocabulary assignments from the Great Sources Vocabulary for Achievement workbook, and various grammar assignments.

 
Family & Consumer Science (FACS) 
  • One semester of material. 
CHILD DEVELOPMENT (FACS ELECTIVE) (10TH -12TH GRADE) ​
  • One semester.
  • This course introduces students to the complexities of child development by examining how humans develop physically, socially, emotionally and intellectually from conception through puberty.  Students will participate in a period of infant care simulation.
​
SENIOR STRATEGIES (FACS ELECTIVE) (12TH GRADE)
  • This semester long course is an exploration of the skills and knowledge necessary for a successful transition to living independently.  Topics include money management, wise consumer practices, and home management​
​
FOODS (FACS ELECTIVE 10TH-12TH GRADE) 
  • This course will introduce the students to the science of managing personal nutrition and health, food skills, food preparation, and meal management.  This course is applicable to all students interested in learning daily nutrition skills and management skills.  It will also develop students’ decision-making skills.  This class will consist of lecture, extensive periods of application, and simulations.
TEXTILES (FACS ELECTIVE) (11TH-12THE GRADE) ​
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY

ARCHITECTURAL DRAFTING & DESIGN (9TH GRADE)
  • One semester.
  • This course is designed to develop the students' interests and abilities in the area of drafting.  Course work will include the study of basic drafting principles, basic house design principles, floor plans, and elevations, using both drafting boards and computer aided drafting and design symbol system of drafting. ​​​​ ​

METAL TECHNOLOGY/WELDING (10TH-12TH GRADE)
  • One semester. 
  • Metals is a basic study of metal working processes that can be used around the home or on the job.  Processes will be studied, demonstrated and then applied in learning activities.
  • Units to be explored:  Arc Welding, gas welding, heat treating, hacksaws, chisels, finishing metal.
  • Activities:  Arc welds, gas welds, oxy-ace welds, oxy-ace cuts.

WOOD TECHNOLOGY   (10TH-12TH GRADE) (OFFERED IN EVEN YEARS)
  • Woods is a machine woodworking class using all the machines in the wood shop.  Grades will be based on classroom activities and on projects.  Suggested projects will be a gun cabinet or grandfather clock although it may be modified to make a hutch, bookcase, wardrobe, etc.
 
​POWER MECHANICS A/B   (GRADES 11TH-12TH GRADE) ​
  • Power Mechanics is a hands-on class that allows students to develop skills that can be used at home or on the job.  Shop-work will consist of disassembly, reconditioning, and assembly of a gas engine.  Students will also troubleshoot and tune-up automobiles.  The diesel engine will be explored. Units to be expanded on:  engines, transmissions, brakes, electrical, cooling, lubrication, fuel, and steering.
​​
CONSTRUCTION (10TH-12THE GRADE) (OFFERED IN ODD YEARS) 
  • One semester. 
  • This course is designed to develop the students' interests and abilities in the area of construction.  Course work will involve instruction in the areas of building location, surveying, blue prints, foundations, grading, schedules, building codes, electrical, heating air conditioning, plumbing, and cost analysis.

MANUFACTURING (10TH -1TH GRADE)
Manufacturing class is designed to allow students to develop a company and produce a product.  The company/class will sell the product to the public with a vision of making a profit.  Each company will be divided up with 4-6 students in each.
MATHEMATICS
ALGEBRA I A/B: (Grades 8, 9, 10, 11, 12)
  • Algebra I is a fundamental mathematics course which serves as a basis for such subjects as geometry, higher algebra, calculus and trigonometry, computer science, chemistry and physics.  Equations, formulas, and fundamental operations are included in this beginning class.  The course is designed to implement the NCTM standards by teaching concepts through their applications emphasizing the reading and writing of mathematics, providing a wide variety of meaningful problem-solving opportunities, and incorporation of the latest technology.

ALGEBRA I+ A/B: (Grade 9, 10,11)
  • Algebra I+ is a continuation of Algebra I, which serves as a basis for such subjects as geometry, higher algebra, calculus and trigonometry, computer science, chemistry and physics.  Equations, formulas, and fundamental operations are included in this beginning class.  The course is designed to implement the NCTM standards by teaching concepts through their applications emphasizing the reading and writing of mathematics, providing a wide variety of meaningful problem-solving opportunities, and incorporation of the latest technology.

ALGEBRA II A/B : (Grades 9, 10, 11, 12)
Prerequisite:  Algebra I
  • The course is a continuation of Algebra I.  Basic algebraic definitions and properties are reviewed throughout the course.  Learning how to write and graph linear, quadratic and exponential equations will be emphasized.  Implementing the NCTM Standards will be done by teaching concepts through applications emphasizing the reading and writing of mathematics while providing a wide variety of meaningful problem solving opportunities.  Incorporating the latest technologies and preparation for Trigonometry are also a major focus.

GEOMETRY A/B: Semester 1 & 2 
  • Semester One: Geometry integrates coordinates and gives strong attention to measurement formulas and three dimensional figures in the first half of the book. Work with proof-writing follows a carefully sequenced development of logical precursors. Geometry contains the following topics:  Figures and measures, Proofs, Parallels, Proving triangles congruent, applying congruent triangles, polygons and reflections.
  • Semester Two: Continuation of Semester One. Contains the following topics: Quadrilateral trapezoids and symmetric polygons, applying similar triangles, circles and lines, areas of geometric polygons, coordinate geometry and three-dimensional figures.

FUNCTIONS, STATISTICS and TRIGONOMETRY A/B
Prerequisite:  Algebra II
  • Semester One: In earlier work you have studied linear, quadratic, exponential, and logarithmic functions and perhaps also trigonometric and circular functions.   In this course you will review and extend ideas about these functions.  Many of the extensions are done with the aid of a calculator with graphic and statistical capabilities.  This course will concentrate on topics that deal with functions, statistics, and trigonometry.  A thorough knowledge of functions and trigonometry is needed for calculus, an area of mathematics that is fundamental in engineering and in the physical sciences.  Statistics is required for anyone who majors in the social sciences or business.
  • Semester Two: This is a continuation of semester one.  You will continue to concentrate on topics that deal with functions, statistics, and trigonometry.  If you further study in any area in which mathematics is encountered, it is likely that you will need the mathematics presented in this class.

CALCULUS A/B
Prerequisite:  Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry
  • Semester One:Topics include a review of the elementary functions, advanced properties of functions (including special attention to polynomial and rational functions) polar coordinates, complex numbers, and the introductions to the derivative and integral.
  • Semester Two: Topics include recursion, induction, combinatorics, vectors, graphs, and circuits.  Manipulation of complex rational expressions, not emphasized in previous courses, is discussed here.  Mathematical thinking, including specific attention to formal logic and proof and comparing structures, is a unifying theme employed throughout the course.

SENIOR HIGH MATH –GRADE 11-12 A/B
Prerequisite:  Algebra II, Geometry
  • This class is a math alternative for students who have completed Algebra II and Geometry.  Seniors who have not passed the GRAD Math test are required to enroll in this class. Topics include a review of algebra  and geometry concepts and an introduction to basic trigonometry concepts.

Math 1110-College Algebra- GRADE 11-12  (3 CIHS Credits)
Prerequisite:  Algebra II
  • This course covers basic algebraic operations, linear and quadratic equations and inequalities, variations, functions and their graphs, binomial expansion, theory of equations, rational equations, conic sections, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of equations. 

Math 2231-Calculus I - GRADE 11-12 (4 CIHS credits)
Prerequisite:  College Algebra
  • This course is a first in a sequence of courses designed to cover limits, continuity, differentiation, and integration of algebraic and trigonometric functions, and applications of derivatives.
​
MUSIC ​
INSTRUMENTAL:  
  • High School Band Grades - Every  day-1/2 period
  • Students are expected to have completed Band the previous year in order to enroll, unless other arrangements have been made with the director.  The major emphasis of the High School Band is the development of individual skills in performance through the participation in the large ensemble.  Of particular importance are the concepts of pitch, tone control, balance, and blend.  In addition to the large group experience, all members of this band are involved in concerts, over 15 pep band events, MSHSL large group, or band contest, performing on Memorial Day and at graduation.  Students are encouraged to perform at Solo and Ensemble Contest, Honor Bands and tryout for the Minnesota All-State Band.  Students with a high level of participation have the opportunity earn an extracurricular varsity letter in band.
VOCAL: 
  • High School Choir - Every day-1/2 period
  • This course requires a basic vocal audition for admittance.  This performance group is designed to build the basic skills of choral tone, intonation, melodic and expressive singing, and rhythmic concepts.  Performance opportunities include, concerts, MSHSL sponsored music contests, graduation and various field trips when it is possible.  Students will study and perform a variety of musical styles and genres.  Students will also have the opportunity to prepare vocal solos and be a member of a smaller vocal ensemble.  Students with a high level of participation have the opportunity to earn an extra-curricular varsity letter in choir.
​
PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH (11th-12th Grade)
PHYSICAL EDUCATION (11th - 12th Grade) 
  • One Semester
  • Students will be introduced to and will participate in a variety of activities.  Team sports will include flag football, basketball, volleyball, lacrosse, floor hockey and softball.  Individual sports such as badminton, bowling, table tennis, golf, shuffleboard, and weight training will be introduced.
​
PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH 9 A/B
  • This is a required course that encompasses all the aspects of physical education.  This course covers team and individual sports. There will be a unit on weight training included in the course.  Some examples of units are flag football, softball, volleyball, lacrosse, floor hockey, basketball, bowling, and some recreational games.  The course will be based on trying to introduce some examples that will lead to a lifetime of fitness for the students. 
  • The health unit again is required and encompasses a variety of topics.  Modern health is the study of an individual's outer and inner self, knowledge of the physical, mental, and emotional and social aspects of an individual's life in our society.  The activities will try to modify or reinforce student's attitudes toward correct health habits and practices.  Evaluation is based on written assignments and tests, individual and group projects, and class participation. 

Units to be taught:
  • Mental Health and Mental Disorders
  • Nutrition
  • Weight Control
  • Suicide/Teenage Suicide
  • Environmental Health
  • Social Issues
  • Death and Dying
  • Consumer Health
​
PHYSICAL EDUCATION 10
  • One Semester
  • This is a required course that encompasses all the aspects of physical education.  This course covers team and individual sports. There will be a unit on weight training included in the course.  Some examples of units are flag football, softball, volleyball, basketball, bowling, and some recreational games.  The course will be based on trying to introduce some examples that will lead to a lifetime of fitness for the students. ​
PHYSICS
ELEMENTARY PHYSICS A/B CIHS
  • Elementary Physics will combine a conceptual approach with quantitative problem-solving to help in the learning of physics.  The class will also deal with applications and understanding of scientific inquiry.  Labs will be conducted with most chapters.
Semester One:  Physics A
Prerequisites:      Algebra I and II, a good understanding of algebra is essential
Topics covered: Introduction to the laws and principles of mechanics, including:
                Nature of Physics
                SI units, Precision, Accuracy
                One and Two-Dimensional Motion
                Newton’s Laws of Motion and Forces
                Work and Energy
                Momentum
                Law of Gravity
Semester Two:  Physics B
Prerequisites:      Algebra I and II
                                Passing grade in physics A
Topics covered:  Properties of matter, including:
                Rotational Motion
                Equilibrium and Dynamics 
                Fluid Mechanics
                Thermodynamics
                Wave Motion
                Principles of Optics
                Electric Forces
                Magnetism

**Students need an interest in learning new things and a willingness to go beyond the average routes of thought to thinking “outside the box”.
**Students need to realize this is a college course and much will be expected of them.  This course has a high standard of rigor.

PHYSICS

General physics is a conceptual approach to understanding the basics of everyday physics.  The class is based on discussions, research, lab activities, and some math to help reinforce the concepts studied.  It also covers applications of physics and an understanding of scientific inquiry.

Topics covered:

                Describing and Explaining Motion

                Gravity

                Momentum

                Work and Energy

                Structure and States of Matter

                Thermal Energy

                Vibrations and Waves

                Light

                Electricity and Magnetism

     Atomic Models and Relativity
CHEMISTRY
CHEMISTRY A/B
  • Chemistry solves problems that have to do with everything around us, and all of our daily interactions with matter.  For example, chemistry involves the color and texture of our clothes, technology, and the energy we get from digesting our food.  Everybody’s life is affected by chemistry.  This course combines a conceptual approach with quantitative problem-solving to help in the learning of chemistry.​
Semester One:  Chemistry A 
Prerequisite:  Algebra I, a good understanding of algebra is essential.
Topics Covered: An introduction to the properties of matter:
  • Matter
  • Atomic Structure
  • Electron Clouds and Probability
  • Periodic Table Development/Organization
  • Chemical Formulas
  • The Mole
​
Semester Two:  Chemistry B
Prerequisites: Algebra I & Passing grade in chemistry
Topics covered:  Further investigation into the properties of matter and their interactions:
  • Chemical Bonding
  • Polar Molecules
  • Kinetic Theory
  • Solids, Liquids, and Gases
  • Gases and the Mole
  • Reaction Rates and Equilibrium
  • Acids, Bases, and Salts
  **Students need an interest in learning new things and a willingness to go beyond the average routes of thought to thinking “outside the box”.
Biology, Environmental Sciences, & Physical Sciences
 BIOLOGICAL PRIN. 1111A – CIHS
  • Odd years
  • This is an introductory level course where students study fundamental concepts of cell biology, the chemical and physical basis of life, concepts in genetics, evolution, and the impact that biological and genetic advances have on society and the biosphere.

BIOLOGICAL PRIN. 1112B – CIHS
  • Odd years
  • This is an introductory level course that introduces the concepts of macroevolution, the 6 kingdoms system of classification, comparative study of representatives of the 6 kingdoms with special emphasis on plants and animals, the concept of biomes, and the role of human activities and their affects on the ecological balance of the biosphere.

BIOLOGY 2252A – Anatomy and Physiology I - CIHS
  • Even years
  • An advanced course designed to acquaint the student with the structure, function, and disease processes of cellular physiology, homeostasis, integumentary, respiration, lymphatics, immunity, heart, blood, joints, skeletal and muscular systems ion the human body. This course will also investigate the impact of environmental influence on the human body as well as the effects of the environment and genetics on disease processes. This course is designed to assist the student in developing a basic understanding of the normal structure and function of the body.

BIOLOGY 2254B – Anatomy and Physiology II - CIHS
  • Even years
  • An advanced course designed to acquaint the student with the structure, function, and disease processes: nerve tissue, central nervous, endocrine, digestion, nutrition, urinary, reproduction, development and genetic systems in the human body. This course will also investigate the impact of environmental influence on the human body as well as the effects of the environment and genetics on disease processes.

BIOLOGY 2256 A/B-Advanced Physiology -CIHS
  • Even years
  • This is a lab course taken in conjunction with BIO 2252 and BIO 2254.

BIOLOGY A/B--GRADE 10
  • Biology is a year long class that questions the students to explain “what is life? ”. Emphasis will be given to the study of cell biology, Mendelian genetics, evolution and natural selection, classification and diversity in the six kingdom system, nine phyla of animals and their adaptations, the environment, and the human body.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE A/B (GR.11-12)
  •  (MUST HAVE PASSED BIOLOGY 10)
  • Environmental Science is a year long class that covers our place on the planet Earth. Main ideas covered would be Ecology, Populations, Biodiversity, Mineral and Energy Resources, Cycling of Matter in our Air, Water and Land and the health and future of our planet. Emphasis is given to the impact humans have on our planet and the organisms we share the Earth with.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE II A/B (GR.11-12)
  •  (MUST HAVE PASSED ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE I)

PHYSICAL SCIENCE A/B -- GRADE 9
  • Physical science explores aspects of both physics and chemistry.  Generally, one semester focuses on physics and the other semester on chemistry.  Most of the time is spent on the main concepts of each topic, but some use of equations and calculations are involved too.  Also incorporated into the class are discussions on relating science to technology, the environment, economics, and history. Labs will be conducted with most chapters.
Semester One
Topics Covered: An introduction to the nature of science with a focus on physics:
  • The Scientific Method
  • Energy and Motion
  • Velocity and Acceleration
  • Momentum
  • Energy
  • Wave Properties
Semester Two
Topics covered: An introduction to the nature of science with a focus on chemistry: 
  • States of Matter
  • Classification of Matter
  • Atomic Structure
  • Properties of Elements
  • Organization and History of the Periodic Table
  • Chemical Bonds and Formulas
  • Chemical Reactions
  • Acids, Bases, and Salts
SOCIAL STUDIES

Senior Social A/B: Grade 12
  • This course will explain the choices made by consumers and businesses and how they affect economy as a whole. Topics include the study of but are not limited to: scarcity, economic systems, supply and demand, checking/savings accounts, insurance, the stock market, investing, business structures, gross domestic product (GDP), unemployment, inflation, the Federal Reserve System, taxes and the federal budget, as well as international trade. This course emphasizes the skills of note taking, complex writing, independent study, use of media, and researching.
 Semester One -  Economics
  • Different economic systems are explained and you learn how these systems answer such economic questions as “What should be produced?”, “How should things be produced?”, and “For whom should the goods be produced?”
Semester Two - World History
  • This is a course in world history from pre-history to present times. The purpose of this course is to provide students an opportunity to learn about events that shaped the world we live in today. The contents of this course includes but is not limited to: the first humans, Western Asia and Egypt, India and China, Ancient Greece, Romans, Middle Ages, Renaissance, Reformation, Ottoman Empire, the French Revolution, European Imperialism, World War I and II, the Cold War, and current global problems. This course emphasizes the skills of note taking, listening to lectures, complex writing, independent study, use of media, and researching.

World Geography A/B: Grade 11
  • This is a general introductory course to World Geography emphasizing the five themes of geography, the impact of environmental issues on a global community, the study of the political, economic, cultural, and physical characteristics of most of the continents of the world. The purpose of the course is to increase each student’s basic knowledge of various areas of the world where the United States is involved or has the potential to be involved.
  • The student will illustrate the ability to interpret and communicate geographic information and analyze the relationships between land, ownership, culture, and history.
  • The following skills will be developed by assignments that will include student reports, completing worksheets, listening to lectures, analysis of basic relationships concerned with a global world in a geographical setting, doing independent study, using the media and note taking, and the use of research skills.

AMERICAN HISTORY A/B: Grade 10
  • This is a course in American History designed to cover United States history from the Civil War to the present time.  The beginning of the course will involve a brief review of revolutionary America up to the Civil War.  The purpose of the course is to increase each student's basic knowledge of our country's history and to develop a pride in our country's past.
  • The contents of the course will include:  Reconstruction after the Civil War, the emergence of modern America, imperialism and the progressive movement, World War I, World War II, the cold war to the present day, and global tensions.
  • The following skills will be developed by making assignments which will include student reports, completing worksheets, listening to lectures, listening to guest speakers, doing independent study, using the media and note taking, and the use of research skills.

CAREERS: Grade 10
  • One Semester  
  • This course is designed to provide career investigation in order to understand types of occupations and careers available.  Attitudes, values, behaviors, skills, and interests of students will be explored and related to various careers.  Education and training for careers will be discussed along with the current trends and outlooks for various careers.  The job seeking process will also be covered within this course.
  • Job Shadowing will be done in this class. 

CIVICS A/B:  Grade 9
  • Review of U.S. Citizenship
  • This is a general social studies course that focuses on the rights and responsibilities of American citizenship.  The purpose of the class is to increase awareness of the forces and institutions that affect the students' life, and to demonstrate ways in which citizenship cannot just be learned, but lived.  The course content includes:  Historical Foundations of the US Government, the Constitution and the Amendments, Political Participation, The Three Branches of Government, The Federal System, and a Civil Rights unit.  If time allows, we will also examine local government units.
  • The students will be required to read assignments from the textbook and handout materials, take notes, work in small groups settings, carry out simulation activities, listen to AV materials, hand in written assignments and worksheets, and discuss current events.
  • Students who participate in Civics class and put forth the requisite effort will understand the foundations, rights and responsibilities of being a United States Citizen.
...
...