Course Descriptions

7th Grade Math

Students will build skills with integers, rational numbers, expressions and equations, inequalities, ratios and proportions, percentages, constructions and scale drawings, circles and area, surface area and volume, probability and statistics utilizing the district adopted curriculum Big Ideas Math: A Bridge to Success. 2 Semesters (Ms. Daniell)

8th Grade Math

Students learn the basics of algebra and geometry. Including solving algebraic equations with multiple steps. Identifying relationships within angles. Graphing lines using multiple forms. Solving systems of linear equations. Defining and determining what is and is not a function. Using real numbers and the Pythagorean Theorem. Find the volume of solids, and interpret data. 2 Semesters (Ms. Olson)

7th Grade Science 

This is a Life Science course that teaches students a wide variety of information beginning with cells and working through the expanse of living things and how they function individually and as a force in an environment. There will be multiple speaking opportunities through the presentation of projects that demonstrate learning and use of the scientific process and research. 2 Semesters (Ms. Daniell)

8th Grade Science

This course is Earth Science.  Students learn a variety of aspects about space, natural resources, geology, volcanoes, water cycle and weather and climate. Students will demonstrate their learning through projects and presentations as well as written assessments designed to incorporate the scientific process, research and experiments. 2 Semesters (Ms. Daniell)

Physical Education / Health 

(Ms. Daniell)

7th Grade World History

World History  7th grade social studies.  Students will learn about different cultures, map skills and historical impacts of each of the unique cultures.  The school year starts with the Roman Empire, travels the Arabian Peninsula, Africa, and then heads to Eastern Empires. Students will learn how these cultures are interconnected through the Silk Road, and how ideas and inventions are shared throughout the Middle Ages world.  Second semester students will learn about the Americas civilizations before European exploration. Then the course heads back to Middle Ages Europe, and how the Renaissance was an explosion of learning, which led to Europeans exploring and heading towards the Americas and also caused the Silk Road to be obsolete.  The ending of this course will set the stage for students' Social Studies course in eighth grade (US History I). (Ms. Angle)

Arts

7th Grade Art Course Description: This class is the first half of an arts foundation curriculum. Students will learn a variety of techniques, review the elements of art, and get introduced to art history and influential visual artists. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with a wide variety of art mediums and develop a greater understanding of the creative process. (Mrs. Stephensen)

8th Grade Art Course Description: This class is the second half of an arts foundation curriculum. Students will study the principles of design, learn a variety of techniques, review the elements of art, and be introduced to art history and influential visual artists. Students will have the opportunity to experiment with a wide variety of art mediums and develop a greater understanding of the creative process. (Mrs. Stephensen)

High School English Language Arts (ELA)

9th Grade English/English I

Students in ninth grade will read a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts focused on genre and literary analysis.  Some of the units covered include: poetry, short stories, and drama (Romeo and Juliet).  In addition, students will complete an in- depth study of grammar, Greek etymology, as well as use critical- thinking skills. Students will spend time researching, writing, and presenting a wide variety of information. Ninth graders will write in a variety of forms, including responses to literature, research papers, reflective essays, and narrative stories. 2 semesters (Ms. Newton)

10th Grade English/English II

Students in tenth grade will read a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts focused on world literature. Some of the units covered include: Night, World Literature Short Stories and Book Clubs (Latin American, African, Asian, European, Immigrant), and European Literature (Julius Caesar). In addition, students will complete an in- depth study of grammar, Latin etymology, as well as use critical- thinking skills. Students will spend time researching, writing, and presenting a wide variety of information. Tenth graders will write in a variety of forms, including responses to literature, reflective essays, and narrative stories. 2 semesters (Ms. Newton)

11th Grade English/English III

Students in eleventh grade will read a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts focused on American Literature. Literature units covered include: Native Americans, Puritans, Rationalists, Romantics, and Modernists. In addition, students will complete an in-depth study of grammar, SAT vocabulary preparation, as well as use critical- thinking skills. Special focus will be given to preparing for college entrance exams.  Students will spend time researching, writing, and presenting a wide variety of information. Eleventh graders will write in a variety of forms, including responses to literature, reflective essays, and narrative stories. 2 semesters (Ms. Newton)  

12th Grade English/English IV

Students in twelfth grade will read a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts focused on College and Career Readiness and British Literature. Some of the literature units covered may include: Synthesis Writing, Personal Statements, Listening Literacy, The Anglo-Saxons (Beowulf), The Middle Ages (The Canterbury Tales), and a choice Passion Project. In addition, students will complete an in-depth study of grammar, college-ready vocabulary, as well as use critical-thinking skills. Special focus will be given to preparing for the senior project. Students will spend time researching, writing, and presenting a wide variety of information. Twelfth graders will write in a variety of forms, including responses to literature, reflective essays, and narrative stories. 2 semesters (Ms. Newton)

High School Mathematics

Algebra I

Semester 1: The fundamental purpose of this course is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. The critical areas, called units, deepen and extend understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend. Students also engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic functions. Semester 2: The fundamental purpose of this course is to formalize and extend the mathematics that students learned in the middle grades. The critical areas, called units, deepen and extend understanding of linear and exponential relationships by contrasting them with each other and by applying linear models to data that exhibit a linear trend. Students also engage in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic functions. (Ms. Olson)

Algebra II

In Algebra II students build on the foundations of linear, quadratic, and exponential functions extending their repertoire to include polynomial, rational, radical, and logarithmic functions. 2 Semesters (Ms. Olson)

Geometry

Geometry includes the study of 3-dimensional figures, plane figures, and transformations. Students explore more complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships, moving towards formal mathematical arguments. Many algebraic applications will be addressed in geometry. 2 Semesters (Ms. Olson)

Precalculus and Trigonometry (Advanced Math)

Students will use the tools learned and developed in algebra II to further their understanding of different types of functions. As well as be able to use the unit circle to solve trigonometric problems. 2 Semesters (Ms. Olson)

College Prep Math 

This a semester-long, pass/fail course designed for juniors and seniors preparing for the SAT, ACT, ALEKS, or ASVAB math exams. Students will review essential concepts in algebra, geometry, data analysis, and advanced topics like exponents and trigonometry while building test-taking strategies and confidence. The course combines direct instruction, workbook practice, and adaptive online tools to support individualized growth and readiness for college or career. This course does not impact GPA. (Ms. Olson)

History / Social Studies

US History 1 

Students embark on a journey to understand the complex and dynamic development of the United States. Through a comprehensive exploration of American history, we will examine the cultural, social, and economic transformations that have shaped the nation from its earliest days through the Civil War and Reconstruction Era. This is a required class to graduate, and a pre-requisite to US History II. (Ms. Angle)

US History 2 

This course provides a survey of United States history from 1890 to present day. The main topics of study include American Growth and Expansion, World War I, the Roaring Twenties, the Great Depression, World War II, the Cold War, the Civil Rights Movement, and the Vietnam War. This course supports the development of Idaho Content Standards by requiring students  to read and analyze historical texts, think deeply about historical events, write in a variety of ways, and effectively utilize supporting  evidence. (Ms. Angle)

Economics / Personal Finance

This Economics course introduces students to the fundamental principles that shape economic decision-making, markets, and financial systems. Using Economics: Principles in Action by O’Sullivan and Sheffrin, students will begin by exploring scarcity, opportunity cost, production possibilities, and the different types of economic systems before examining the structure and benefits of the American free enterprise system. From there, students will analyze how markets work by studying demand, supply, prices, and competition, while applying concepts through graphs, scenarios, and problem-solving activities. The course then shifts to measuring economic performance, including GDP, business cycles, unemployment, inflation, and poverty, allowing students to connect economic theory to real-world challenges. Finally, students will investigate money, banking, and financial markets, learning about the role of money, the history of banking, and how financial markets support saving, investing, and economic growth. Throughout the course, students will engage in hands-on projects, graphing exercises, and discussions to apply economic concepts and better understand their role in today’s economy.  (Ms. Lowry)

Government 

This American Government course provides students with a comprehensive study of the foundations, structures, and functions of the United States government while fostering connections to current events and real-world applications. Using Magruder’s American Government as the primary text, students will explore topics such as the origins and principles of democracy, the Constitution, federalism, political behavior, and the roles of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches. Each unit emphasizes both historical context and contemporary relevance, with opportunities for students to engage in simulations such as a minor party debate, congressional committee bill creation, a presidential election, and a Supreme Court case. Daily discussions of current events encourage critical thinking and global awareness, while projects and assignments promote civic literacy and active participation. Throughout the course, students will meet Idaho State Social Studies Standards as they develop a deeper understanding of American government, individual rights, and the responsibilities of citizenship.  (Ms. Lowry)

Languages

Spanish I

This is a one year introductory course where students will learn the basics of pronunciation, conversational vocabulary topics, and culture. 2 Semesters (Ms. Angle)

Spanish II

This is a one year course where students will continue exploration of the language, using advanced verb tenses, broadening vocabulary, and cultural topics. 2 Semesters (Ms. Angle)

Sciences

Life Science - High School

In this class, you decide what we study. Together, we’ll choose four themes in life science, and you’ll design your own research questions within those themes. Each cycle ends with a presentation, project, or showcase. The semester finishes with a reflection portfolio. The course will also include concepts of exercise physiology where we learn how the human body is impacted by exercise over time.  (Mr. Kemink)

Chemistry 

This is an introductory course in general chemistry.   The focus of this course is the study of matter, its interactions  and how these processes manifest  in the observable universe.  As we address this objective we will have opportunities  to reflect on  the historical development  of the theories that comprise chemistry. We will gain perspective on the  theoretical framework of chemistry and learn about  technology that is being used to perform chemical research today. During the course, we will address many fundamental chemical concepts, improve our quantitative skills,  develop a general understanding of the process of science, and enhance our appreciation of the universe.  (Mr. Jones)

Biology

This course addresses what is perhaps the most amazing phenomena in the universe, life.  We will approach this topic through a process of inquiry that incorporates general science practices, science crosscutting concepts and the key disciplinary core ideas of biology.   As we investigate, we will retain a focus on the underlying physical and chemical principles that are necessary for understanding the complex process of life.  We will gain insight into numerous aspects of living systems such as  biochemistry, genetics, cell biology, growth and development, ecology, biological diversity and the history of life. (Mr. Jones)

Physical Science

This class will serve as a foundation for  the future  by helping you make sense of the world as we engage in science and engineering practices. We will learn to recognize and understand the crucial science crosscutting concepts as we navigate the most fundamental of the sciences.  The course is organized into 2 semesters.  The first semester is an introduction to general chemistry where we inquire into key concepts and theories of matter. The second semester is an introduction to physics where we  examine the theories that help us make sense of the natural world.  We will address topics  such as motion, mechanics, fundamental forces, energy, electromagnetism, space, time,  wave phenomena in addition to others!  (Mr.  Jones)  

HS Art

Studio Art Course Description: This class is for students with previous art experience and designed around student choice. Students use  a variety of media, while preparing to complete a cohesive portfolio of artwork. Additionally, they express their ideas and understanding of their artwork in a written commentary that accompanies their body of work. Scheduled critique sessions provide guidance and an opportunity to clarify and express ideas. (Mrs. Stephensen)

Digital Art Course Description: This course will explore visual storytelling through a variety of mediums, including digital programs such as Procreate, Adobe Illustrator, Photoshop, as well as traditional art-making mediums. Students will explore illustration techniques through thematic concepts within each unit of study. (Mrs. Stephensen)

Art Around the World Course Description: This course combines the Visual Arts with Cultural Anthropology plus Art History—students would simultaneously learn about cultures and history alongside the visual arts, music, dance and storytelling and develop a greater awareness of the role that visual imagery and culture have in our daily lives. (Mrs. Stephensen)

Physical Education

The high school physical education course is designed to improve students’ overall fitness, strength, and confidence through daily participation in warm-ups, weight training, and a variety of team and individual games. Emphasizing personal growth, teamwork, and social development, the course fosters a supportive environment where students of all abilities can thrive. Through activities such as basketball, volleyball, disc golf, dance, and cooperative games, as well as structured weightlifting, students develop physical literacy, understand fitness principles, and build lifelong habits that promote health, enjoyment, and positive social interaction.                   (Mr. MacDonald)

Electives

Leadership Course Description:

The Leadership course at Clark Fork Jr.-Sr. High School empowers students to take active roles in shaping a positive school culture and strengthening community connections. Through project-based learning, students work collaboratively to address real-world issues, improve student engagement, and support school-wide initiatives. Emphasis is placed on leadership development, communication, problem-solving, and data-informed decision making. Students lead events, analyze school and community feedback through surveys, and create actionable plans that enhance both student life and community involvement. This course encourages responsible leadership, initiative, and meaningful student voice in school and community improvement efforts. (Mr. MacDoanald)

Millwork/Woodworking:

Course Overview

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of woodworking and carpentry. Students will gain experience using hand tools, power tools, and machinery safely while completing individual and group projects. The semester is designed to progress from beginner skills to advanced woodworking techniques and projects. (Mr. Johansen)

Intro to the Trades:

Course Overview

This 18-week Introduction to the Trades course provides high school students with hands-on exposure to multiple career pathways in skilled trades. Areas of focus may include woodworking, carpentry, electrical basics, plumbing, welding, drafting, and general construction. Students will progress from beginner-level safety and tool use to advanced projects and problem-solving. The course emphasizes employability skills, teamwork, craftsmanship, and career exploration. (Mr. Johansen)

Carpentry 1:

Course Overview

This course introduces students to the fundamentals of carpentry, framed within the National CTE Best Practices Framework for Construction Trades. Students will progress from basic safety and measurement skills to advanced construction projects. They will gain hands-on experience using hand tools, power tools, and construction equipment while applying math, reading, and problem-solving skills relevant to the carpentry trade. (Mr. Johansen)