Course Descriptions
Junior High
Jr. High Industrial Arts
This course introduces students to the basics of building. Students will be learning about basic shop safety, measurement, materials and uses, project planning, basic hand and power tool use, as well as the dynamics of working together to produce small projects and build expertise. 1 Semester (Ms. Cook)
7th Grade English
This course builds on students previous learning through reinforcement and further development of skills in grammar, vocabulary, literature, writing, speaking and listening, and reading. 2 Semesters (Ms. Cook)
7th Grade English
Students in eighth grade will read a variety of fiction and nonfiction texts focused on historical eras and places such as urban living, dystopias, the Holocaust, and more. Units covered include: The Outsiders, “Flowers for Algernon”, Informational Texts, The Diary of Anne Frank, and The Giver. In addition, students will complete an in-depth study of grammar and vocabulary, as well as learning critical-thinking skills. Students will spend time researching, writing, and presenting a wide variety of information. Eighth graders will write in a variety of genres, including responses to literature, reflective essays, research reports, and narrative stories. Special focus will be given to preparing students for high school. 2 Semesters (Ms. Palmer)
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. Cook)
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 (Mr. Mason)
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. Cook)
7th Grade Track
This is an experiential learning class that works together once or twice a month focusing on specific topics such as orienteering, plein air painting, plant identification, team building, rock climbing, natural materials building and much more. 2 Semesters (Ms. Cook)
Life Skills
This course introduces students to a variety of topics such as healthy living, financial education, anthropology, self defense and other student interest topics through design and implementation of multiple mini units. 1 Semester (Ms. Cook)
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. Cook)
Senior High
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. 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. Palmer)
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. Palmer)
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. Palmer)
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. Palmer)
High School Mathematics
Algebra I
Students will use the skill learned in 8th grade math to further deepen their understanding of algebraic concepts. Including how to solve equations with no or infinite solutions. How to solve algebraic inequalities. Graphing and defining transformations of lines. Solving systems of linear equations with no or infinite solutions. How to apply properties of exponentials and solve exponential equations. How to graph and solve basic quadratic equations, and interpret statistical data. 2 Semesters (Mr. Mason)
Algebra II
Students will use concepts learned in algebra I to better understand the importance of polynomial functions, exponential functions, rational functions and trigonometric functions. By being able to solve and graph each function. 2 Semesters (Mr. Mason)
Geometry
Students will use concepts they have learned from both algebra I and 8th grade math to further their understanding of geometric concepts. Students will learn how to apply logic to statements and prove statements to be true. How to define parallel and perpendicular lines as well as angle relationships between them. How to define a transformation between two shapes. Identify relationships between shapes, includes: similarity, congruence, area, volume, angle relationships, and circumference. Probability within geometry. 2 Semesters (Mr. Olmstead)
Precalculus and Trigonometry
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 (Mr. Mason)
Topics in Math
Students will learn the underlying foundations of discrete mathematics. Students will learn how to determine the validity of a statement using truth tables. Prove relationships of sets. Learn and apply the basics of number theory, combinatorics, and graph theory. 1 Semesters (Mr. Olmstead)
Social Studies
Economics
This is a semester long course that is required for graduation, and covers the functions of markets, comparative economic systems, investments, personal finance, and the role of the government in the economy. 1 Semesters (Ms. Angle)
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)
Advanced/College Courses
English 101-DC (CWI)
English 101 emphasizes the process and strategies of writing with critical attention to purpose, audience, and style. Students write analytical essays based on readings, observations, and ideas; develop their inventiveness and voice, and edit for style conventions of standard usage. This course introduces students to academic writing conventions, including integrating sources and using a citation system. PREREQ: Satisfactory placement score or prior completion of ENGL 015, ENGL 020, or ENGL 090. COREQ: ENGL 100, if required by placement score. 1 semester (3 college credits) (Ms. Palmer)
Speech
Speech Communications
Students in Introduction to Public Speaking will learn a variety of professional presentation techniques and will present expository, persuasive, demonstrative, and extemporaneous speeches throughout the semester. In addition, students will learn how to analyze an audience, how to conquer stage fright, how to evaluate a speech, and how to give constructive criticism to peers. Listening skills will be highlighted as well. This class is an Idaho required course for graduation. 1 semester (Ms. Palmer)
CTE Courses
High School Computer Sciences
Students will learn the basics and logic of programming using the computer program scratch. Students will be able to build different types of programs from basic games and animations to calculators. Students will learn multiple famous algorithms like Bubble Sort. 1 semester (Mr. Mason)
Auto Shop
This course covers basic car care, under hood inspection (fluids, belts, hoses), removing & replacing items (wiper blades, bulbs, fuses), cooling system maintenance, battery/charging system diagnosis, lubrication system maintenance, tire information, brake inspection, minor ignition system maintenance (spark plugs, wires, firing order), car buying, car insurance, and service information. Course assignments include reading, writing, shop performance and participation, and a final exam. 1 semester (Mr. Bell)
Graphic Design
This course introduces students to the basics of graphic design. Students will learn the different principles of design, use Adobe products (such as illustrator and photoshop), graphic and logo creation, and practical applications. 1 semester (Mr. Bell)
Introduction to Robotics -
This course introduces students to the past, current, and future use of automation technology in the industry and everyday use. Assignments will include reading, writing, experiments, and construction projects. At each phase of this course students should be able to apply lessons from the class to solve each assignment. 1 semester (Mr. Bell)
Trade Skills and Industry
This course focuses on the production and selling of an item. The class will choose an item, research the cost, construct the item, prototype, and eventually sell the item. This class will have a heavy emphasis on safety and industry judgement. Tools will only be used once a student has been exposed to an instructor's lecture, passed a safety test with a score of 80% correct or or better, and performed a live safety demonstration for their instructor. 1 semester (Mr. Olmstead)
Principles of Engineering
This course allows students to connect and apply content, science, math, and technology to solve problems. Students will need knowledge of drafting, problem solving, mechanisms, energy, material properties, and construction. Assignments will include reading, writing, experiments, and construction projects. At each phase of this course students will apply all they have learned so far to solve and complete each assignment. 1 semester (Mr.)
Welding I
This course allows students to learn about blueprint reading, welding symbols, and the proper use of GMAW, SMAW, arc cutters, and grinders. Assignments will include reading, writing, practice welds, and construction projects. Tools will only be used once a student has been exposed to an instructor's lecture, passed a safety test with a score of 80% correct or or better, and performed a live safety demonstration for their instructor. 1 semester (Mr. Olmstead)
Welding II
This course allows students to learn about blueprint reading, welding symbols, and the proper use of GMAW, SMAW, arc cutters, and grinders. These skills will be building on what students have learned from Welding I. Assignments will include reading, writing, practice welds, and construction projects. Tools will only be used once a student has been exposed to an instructor's lecture, passed a safety test with a score of 80% correct or or better, and performed a live safety demonstration for their instructor. 1 semester ()