ANHS COURSES

2022-23

Courses offered are subject to change Updated 10/31/2022

Course Offerings

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

English I

English I Honors

English II

English II Honors

English III

English IV

AP Lang

AP Lit/Comp

English Language Development/English

English for English Learners I

English for English Learners II

Course Descriptions

English I

UC/CSU: b

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 9: College Prep, Completed English 8 or equivalent

English I is the first step into college and career readiness. In this course, students will read a wide variety of texts over

several units to develop their skills in writing, vocabulary, reading, and collaboration. Students will learn effective

techniques in communication, such as reading, writing, listening, and speaking, while delving into fiction, nonfiction,

poetry, mythology, and drama. English I will prepare students with the necessary skills to achieve success during their

high school career, inside and outside of the classroom.

English I Honors

UC/CSU: b

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 9: Earned a 4.0 GPA in English 8 OR Earned a 3.50 GPA in English 8 ACC

English I Honors is an advanced English class for the more motivated, capable English student. Students who opt for

this more challenging course will undertake copious reading and writing throughout the year. Literature studied in this

course includes mythology, the novel, drama, non-fiction, and poetry. The course also emphasizes grammar and

vocabulary.

**As a 9th grade course this course is not eligible to receive UC honors recognition. The course does have a

weighted grade which will be included in overall GPA calculation.

English II

UC/CSU: b

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 10: College Prep,Completed English 9

This course meets entrance requirements for the University of California and California State University systems and

is aligned with Common Core Standards. The course offers a rigorous curriculum that includes a variety of complex,

board-approved novels, thematically linked nonfiction, and poetry. Students will be challenged with sophisticated

literature that will prepare them for college preparatory English and real world applications. Course work will include

the development of evidence-based claims, textual analysis, composition, vocabulary, grammar, digital literacy,

interpretation, reflection, and synthesis. Course work will promote communication, collaboration, critical thinking, and

creativity.

English II Honors

UC/CSU: b

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 10 : Earned an “A” both semesters in English I AND teacher recommendation OR

Passed Honors English I (B or better)

English II Honors is designed for sophomores as a more rigorous alternative to English II College Prep. Students will

build upon skills learned in English I/English I Honors in composition and reading. The course consists of extensive

reading of a range of texts, including novels, short stories, plays, and poetry from a variety of historical eras and cultural

backgrounds, including high level, complex nonfiction selections. The focus is on critical reading, analysis, and

interpretation to produce thoughtful written responses to assigned readings. Written assignments, both formal and

informal, are focused on detailed textual analysis, argument, and synthesis, and require students to express complex

and interrelated ideas with clarity and a mature style.

Course Descriptions

English III

UC/CSU: b

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 11: College Prep, Completed English II

This course meets entrance requirements for the University of California and California State University systems and is

aligned with Common Core Standards. The course offers a rigorous curriculum that includes a variety of complex,

board-approved fiction, nonfiction, and poetry. Students will explore universal themes that are present in American

literature and apply their newfound insights to the real world. Students will develop skills in grammar, vocabulary,

composition, verbal communication, reading strategies, and digital literacy through collaboration, interpretation,

reflection, and synthesis.

English IV

UC/CSU: b

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 12

By studying World Literature throughout the ages, the English program nurtures an understanding of the universal

connection among people. Students analyze a variety of literature from different cultures to recognize similar and

different thoughts, actions, and emotions. As students analyze various themes, genres and styles, they develop critical

thinking skills. By recognizing the author’s purpose and biases and their own perception, they expand the ability to

critically evaluate evidence and respect diversity.

AP English Language and Composition

UC/CSU: b

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 11: Passed English II with an “A” AND teacher recommendation OR Passed

Honors English II (B or better) OR Passed Honors English II with a “C” AND teacher recommendation

This course offers a rigorous preparation for college level writing and emulates a first-year college composition class by

preparing students to “write effectively and confidently in their college courses across the curriculum and in their

professional and personal lives” (College Board). Students will read and analyze a wide range of non-fiction texts—from

newspaper editorials, to travel writing, to literary non-fiction, to biography, to sermons. Although most of the texts for

the course are non-fiction, some works of fiction will be studied. In terms of reading, students will learn how to analyze

and critique a wide range of non-fiction texts. Students will become familiar with the rhetorical strategies that make for

effective, persuasive writing. Specific attention will be paid to the development and analysis of a written argument.

Students will learn how to identify the elements of a strong argument and will grow to improve their own written

arguments. Furthermore, in terms of writing, students will improve their mastery of standard written English and will

grow in their ability to produce “analytic and argumentative compositions that introduce a complex idea and develop it”

through the use of evidence. Students will continue to develop their ability to revise their own writing—improving upon

its strengths and removing its weaknesses.

Course Descriptions

AP English Literature and Composition

UC/CSU: b

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 12: Passed English III (B or Better) AND teacher recommendation OR Passed

AP Lang/Comp (C or better)

Students in this college–level course read and carefully analyze both English and American literature written in a variety

of time periods, from the 16th Century through the contemporary period. This course will provide students with the

intellectual challenges and workload consistent with a typical sophomore undergraduate English Literature class. The

AP Literature exam in May is a three hour test; one hour of multiple choice questions (45% of total score) and two hours

dedicated to composing three essays, typically a close reading of a passage, a poem analysis, and an open question

which requires you to draw from any number of works you have covered throughout the course of the year (55% of total

score). Practice essays and exams are given throughout the year.

English for English Learners I

UC/CSU: b allow a max of 10 credits for ELD courses

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12: Students in this class are concurrently enrolled in ELD I and have

participated in the program for 2 or less years.

This course is designed to serve as a bridge to mainstream English classes for students at the emerging level of English

proficiency. Students read and write across a variety of genres, applying knowledge of language to derive meaning from

text, and express themselves appropriately for different audiences and purposes. This course addresses the California

Common Core English Language Arts Standards for grade 9-12 as well as the California ELD Standards: Grades 9-12.

English for English Learners II

UC/CSU: Does not meet UC/CSU a-g Requirements

NCAA: No

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12: Students in this class have completed English for English Learners I and

are concurrently enrolled in ELD 2 or higher. This class is appropriate for students who have participated in

the program for three or less years.

This course is designed to serve as a bridge to mainstream English classes for those students who due to limited

English proficiency continue to need targeted support in literacy. Students read and write across a variety of genres,

applying knowledge of language to derive meaning from text, and express themselves appropriately for different

audiences and purposes. This course addresses the California Common Core English Language Arts Standards for

grade 9-12 as well as the California ELD Standards: Grades 9-12.

Course Offerings

English Language Development Support

ELD I

ELD II

ELD III

ALD I, II, III

*These courses supplement English for English Learners I,II and grade level English

classes

Course Descriptions

Emerging English Language Development I

UC/CSU: Does not meet UC/CSU a-g Requirements

NCAA: No

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12: See your Counselor or Guidance Office for Details

In the ELD 1 course, beginning English language learners (ELs) will acquire basic interpersonal communicative

skills and academic English instruction. Students will develop the four language domains of listening, speaking,

reading, and writing by participating in thematically organized, practical, and interactive contexts. Learning

activities are conducted in English. In the ELD 1 course, adopted curriculum is used to accelerate students’

language acquisition. Students in this class concurrently take English Fundamentals 1. The course goals and

objectives are based on the California ELD Standards: Grades 9-12.

Expanding English Language Development II

UC/CSU: Does not meet UC/CSU a-g Requirements

NCAA: No

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12: See your Counselor or Guidance Office for Details

In the ELD 2 course, beginning or early intermediate English language learners (ELs) will continue to acquire basic

interpersonal communicative skills and will begin to acquire cognitive-academic language proficiency in English.

Students will continue to develop the four language domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing by

participating in thematically organized, practical, and interactive contexts. Learning activities are conducted in

English. In the ELD 2 course, adopted curriculum is used to develop students’ literacy and writing skills. Students

in this class are concurrently enrolled in English Fundamentals 2 or grade level English. The course goals and

objectives are based on the California ELD Standards: Grades 9-12.

Bridging English Language Development III

UC/CSU: Does not meet UC/CSU a-g Requirements

NCAA: No

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12: See your Counselor or Guidance Office for Details

In this course, English language learners (ELs) will continue to acquire academic language proficiency in English.

The students will continue to develop the four language domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing by

participating in more rigorous and demanding thematically organized, practical, and interactive contexts using

adopted curriculum. Students in this class are concurrently enrolled in grade level English. The course goals and

objectives are based on the California ELD Standards: Grades 9 – 12.

Course Descriptions

Academic Language Development I, II, III

UC/CSU: Does not meet UC/CSU a-g Requirements

NCAA: See your Counselor or Guidance Office for Details

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12: See your Counselor or Guidance Office for Details

In these courses, English language learners (ELs) who have participated in the program for over three years will

continue to acquire academic language proficiency in English. The students will continue to develop the four

language domains of listening, speaking, reading, and writing by participating in more rigorous and demanding

thematically organized, practical, and interactive contexts using the adopted curriculum. Differentiated instruction will

focus on systematic vocabulary development, comprehension, fluency, and study skills. Attention will be paid to

developing students’ language skills in a meaningful context for situations both within and beyond school settings.

Students will also focus on academic vocabulary development, language, syntax,grammar and writing structures

through close reading of grade level informational and literary texts, and scaffolded writing tasks.

Course Offerings

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

Algebra I

Algebra II

Algebra II/Financial Application

AP Calculus AB

AP Calculus BC

AP Computer Science A

AP Statistics

Beginning Personal Finance

Geometry

Honors AlgebraII/Trigonometry

Honors Precalculus

Math for the College Bound

Precalculus

Topics in Calculus

Course Descriptions

Algebra I

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 9: Grade level course (no criteria needed)

This course focuses on deepening and extending understanding of linear and exponential relationships, contrasting

linear and exponential relationships with each other and engaging in methods for analyzing, solving, and using quadratic

functions, extending the laws of exponents to square and cube roots, and applying linear models to data that exhibit a

linear trend.

Algebra II

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12: Pass Geometry

This course focuses on relating arithmetic of rational expressions to arithmetic of rational numbers, expanding

understandings of functions and graphing to include trigonometric functions, synthesizing and generalizing functions

and extending understanding of exponential functions to logarithmic functions, and relating data, display and summary

statistics to probability and exploring a variety of data collection methods.

Algebra II Financial Applications

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12: Pass Geometry

This course is aligned with the California Algebra II standards. Topics include banking, investing, credit, employment

and income taxes, automobile ownership, independent living, and retirement planning and household budgeting. The

course offers students multiple opportunities to use, construct, question, model and interpret financial situations through

multiple representations, including symbolic algebraic, graphical, geometric and verbal.

AP Calculus AB

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 11-12: Earn a “B-” or higher both semesters in Honors Precalculus

This course focuses on solving problems involving functions and models, limits and derivatives, differentiation rules,

applications of differentiation, integrals, applications of the integral, and differential equations (see Advanced Placement

information in CUSD Course Catalog).

Course Descriptions

AP Calculus BC

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 11: Earn an “A-” or higher both semesters in Honors Precalculus; Grade 12:

Earn an “A-” or higher both semesters in Honors Precalculus

This course focuses on solving problems involving limits and derivatives, differentiation rules, applications of

differentiation, integrals, applications of the integral, techniques of integration, further applications of integration,

differential equations, parametric equations, polar coordinates, and infinite sequences and series(see Advanced

Placement information in CUSD Course Catalog).

AP Computer Science A

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 11-12; recommended enrollment in Precalculus or beyond

This course is intended as an introductory course for students who contemplate majoring in computer science at the

university level or other disciplines that require significant involvement with computing. This course emphasizes

programming methodology and procedural abstraction, and includes the study of algorithms, data structures, and data

abstraction. Students will learn to code fluently in a well-structured fashion utilizing a subset of the JAVA language.

The course includes an introduction to classes and object oriented programming, as well as well-known algorithms and

data structures.

AP Statistics

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12: Earn a “B-” or higher both semesters in Honors Algebra 2/Trigonometry

This course focuses on solving problems involving exploratory analysis, planning a study, probability, and statistical

inferences.

Beginning Personal Finance

UC/CSU: Does not meet UC/CSU a-g Requirements

NCAA: No

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 11-12: Passed Geometry

This course focuses on practical mathematics, earning money, purchasing, banking, credit, transportation, expenses,

taxes, living expenses and budgeting, investing, and college and career planning.

Course Descriptions

Geometry

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 9: (1) Earn a 4-quarter 3.00 GPA or higher in Algebra 1 and score 75% or higher

on the Algebra 1 End-of-Course Final Exam OR (2) Earn a 4-quarter 2.75 GPA or higher in Algebra 1 and score

85% or higher on the Algebra 1 End-of-Course Final Exam; Grades 10-12: Pass Algebra 1

This course focuses on establishing criteria for congruence of triangles based on rigid motions, establishing criteria for

similarity of triangles based on dilations and proportional reasoning, informally developing explanations of

circumference, area, and volume formulas, applying the Pythagorean Theorem to the coordinate plane, proving basic

geometric theorems, and extending work with probability.

Honors Algebra II/Trigonometry

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 9: (1) Earn a 4-quarter 3.00 GPA or higher in Geometry and score 75% or higher

on the Geometry End-of-Course Final Exam OR (2) Earn a 4-quarter 2.75 GPA or higher in Geometry and score

85% or higher on the Geometry End-of-Course Final Exam; Grades 10-12: Earn a “B” or higher both semesters

in Geometry

This course focuses on the Algebra 2 concepts, plus additional topics such as analyzing and graphing polynomial

functions, analyzing and graphing conic sections, expanding the understanding of systems of linear and nonlinear

equations and inequalities with the application of linear programming, matrices and determinants, a study of series and

sequences with mathematical induction, as well as graphing and applying advanced trigonometric functions.

Honors Precalculus

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12: Earn a “B-” or higher both semesters in Honors Algebra 2/ Trigonometry

This course focuses on the Precalculus concepts, plus more advanced topics such as solving problems involving

vectors, polar coordinates, sequences and series, DeMoivre’s Theorem, probability and statistics.

Math for the College Bound

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 12: Passed any Algebra 2 course

This course focuses on a combination of selected precalculus and statistics concepts, including solving problems

involving polynomial, rational and trigonometric functions, linear systems and matrices, limits, exploring and comparing

data, and probability distributions.

Course Descriptions

Precalculus

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12: Passed any Algebra 2 course

This course focuses on solving linear and nonlinear systems of equations and inequalities, matrices and determinants,

graphing quadratics and polynomials, and solving problems involving exponential and logarithmic functions,

trigonometric functions, and sequences and series.

Topics in Calculus

UC/CSU: c

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 11-12: Passed Precalculus or Honors Precalculus

This course focuses on functions and models, limits and derivatives, differentiation rules, applications of differentiation,

integrals, applications of the integral, integration by parts, and differential equations.

Course Offerings

SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

Anatomy & Physiology

AP Biology

AP Chemistry

AP Environmental Science

AP Physics 1

AP Physics C

Biology

Biotechnology (Honors)

Chemistry

Conceptual Physics

Forensics (Honors)

Honors Biology

Honors Chemistry

Marine Ecology

Physics

Sports Medicine

Course Descriptions

Anatomy & Physiology

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12: Passed a Physical Science

This is a course designed to give students a more specific understanding of how the human body works. The major

organ systems of the body, the structures and their functions are covered thoroughly, as well as those general and most

common problems and disorders. This course is taught using higher problem solving and critical thinking skills,

increased number of case studies, dissections, more organ systems and disorders. This course is designed to expose

students who desire to further their education and are curious about and/or are contemplating a profession in the

medical field. Students will be encouraged to engage in thoughtful debates and discussions about current medical

practices and procedures on their own.

AP Biology

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 11-12: Passed Chemistry (B or better) OR Passed Honors Chemistry (C or

better)

This inquiry and investigative laboratory-based course is an advanced course equivalent to the first year of college

biology. Course content includes: biochemistry, cells and tissues, cell chemistry, plant and animal classification, animal

physiology, reproduction and genetics, evolution, ecology, interactions. Students who complete this course are

encouraged to take the AP Exam in Biology.

AP Chemistry

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 11-12: Passed Honors Chemistry (B or better)

This inquiry and investigative laboratory-based course is an advanced course equivalent to first-year college chemistry.

Emphasis is placed on in-depth study of the structure of matter, states of matter, reactions,descriptive chemistry, and

chemical calculations. Students who complete this course are encouraged to take the AP Exam in Chemistry.

AP Environmental Science

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 11-12: Passed Chemistry (B or better both semesters) OR Passed Honors

Chemistry (C or better both semesters)

This lecture and laboratory-based course is equivalent to one semester of college environmental science. It emphasizes

the interdependency and complexity of the natural world and the impact of human activity on the global ecosystem.

Topics include energy, matter, Earth, atmosphere, biosphere, human population dynamics, renewable and

nonrenewable resources, environmental quality, global changes and their consequences, and environment and society.

Students who complete this course are encouraged to take the AP Exam in Environmental Science.

Course Descriptions

AP Physics 1

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 11-12: Passed Chemistry (Earned an A both semesters) OR Passed Honors

Chemistry (C or better both semesters) AND Passed Honors Algebra II/Trig (C or better both semesters)

The AP Physics 1 course focuses on understanding concepts and equations that are stressed in the AP topic outline.

The concepts that will be covered in the school year include vectors and their applications in all of the Physics topics

covered, Kinematics, Circular Motion, Forces and Gravitation, Momentum and Inertia, Work and Energy, Rotation and

Torque, Simple Harmonic Motion and Waves, Electricity and Circuits. Throughout the year we will focus on the practical

applications of these topics. The AP course provides an opportunity for students to display their knowledge in an

engineering setting with our quarter projects.

AP Physics C

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 12: AP Physics 1 (B or better both semesters) AND Enrolled in IB/AP Calculus

AB or BC

This laboratory course is equivalent to first-year college Physics. Principles of classical mechanics and

electromagnetics are developed. Emphasis is on analysis of physical systems and solving equations. The sequence is

more intense than the B course, as problem solving requires differential and integral calculus. Students who complete

this course are encouraged to take the AP Exam in Physics C.

Biology

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 9: A,B,C,D - Science 8.

This investigative laboratory oriented course emphasizes the basic structural, physiological, ecological, evolutionary,

and genetic principles as they pertain to living organisms. Critical thinking and problem solving are integral components

of the curriculum. The course is also designed to help all students develop an appreciation of the natural world and an

understanding of biology’s role in society.

Biotechnology

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 11-12: A,B,C - Biology and Physical Science

Biotechnology is the study and manipulation of living organisms and their building blocks for commercial use. Biotech

has applications in the areas of medicine, agriculture, and the environment. The course is designed to give students an

introduction to the scientific concepts and laboratory research techniques currently used in the field of biotechnology.

Through extensive reading, laboratory work, and workplace experiences, students will evaluate career opportunities in

the field of biotechnology. This course does have a weighted grade which will be included in overall GPA

calculation.

Course Descriptions

Chemistry

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12: Passed Biology (C or better both semesters) AND Passed Algebra I (B or

better both semesters)

This inquiry and laboratory-based course emphasizes chemical principles, which investigate the composition, behavior

and organization of matter at an atomic and nuclear level. Emphasis is placed on developing and using models, planning

and conducting investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, using mathematical and computational thinking, and

constructing explanations; and to use these practices to demonstrate understanding of quantitative evaluation of the

atom, elements, periodic table, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, equilibrium, nuclear chemistry, and

energy transfer. Students will be expected to engage in, design, and evaluate investigations in the laboratory setting.

Conceptual Physics

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12: Passed Biology

Conceptual Physics is an introductory course in the foundations of Physics. Emphasis will be on the development of an

intuitive understanding of physics principles and concepts. Students will also learn problem solving skills using basic

algebra as it applies to the physics concepts. Laboratory work will help students develop reasoning power, focus on

investigation skills, and apply physics principles to multiple circumstances and scenarios. This course emphasizes a

study of motion with basics in Mechanics, Heat, Electricity and Magnetism, Sound and Light.

Forensics

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: ANHS & SJHHS: Completion of Biology; A,B,C - Chemistry or Physics: A,B,C

The course covers the collection and analysis of evidence found at a crime scene using a variety of chemical, physical

and microscopic examination techniques. Topics include but are not limited to blood spatter analysis, fingerprints, glass

and fiber, toxicology, firearms, entomology, question documents, hair, and serology. This course does have a

weighted grade which will be included in overall GPA calculation.

Course Descriptions

Honors Biology

As a 9th grade course this course is not eligible to receive UC honors recognition. The course does have a

local weighted grade which will be included in overall GPA calculation.

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 9: Passed Science 8 (earned an A) AND Passed Algebra 1 (B or better) Enrolled

in Geometry AND Passed English 8 ACC (B or better) OR Passed English 8 (earned an A)

Honors Biology is an advanced investigative laboratory course examining the structural and physiological characteristics

of life from the molecular to the organismal level. Further emphasis will focus on analyzing and constructing patterns of

biological interactions within ecosystems based upon selective pressures of speciation. Students will be using critical

thinking skills to formulate arguments based on scientific data to explain natural phenomena and design solutions to

current global problems.

Honors Chemistry

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 10-12: Passed Biology with an A OR Passed Honors Biology (C or better) AND

Passed Algebra I with an A AND Enrolled in Geometry or higher Recommended: Enrolled in Alg. II or higher.

Honors Chemistry is an elective, college preparatory class designed to meet the needs of students with a strong

background in mathematics and science. This course offers students a chance to learn the fundamental principles of

chemistry, to learn safe laboratory techniques, to learn proper handling techniques of various chemical substances, and

to develop problem solving and critical thinking skills needed to succeed at the college level. Students participate in

multiple inquiry based investigations that are aligned with the California NGSS standards. Students collaborate and

communicate their findings and understanding in different formats such as lab reports, individual and/or group

presentations and research papers. Students interested in pursuing careers in healthcare, engineering, pharmacology,

research, veterinary medicine, science teaching, lab technology, or any related field are strongly encouraged to take

this course.

Marine Ecology

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 11-12:Passed Biology (C or better) AND Passed a Physical Science

Marine Ecology is a college-prep laboratory course that emphasizes the interrelationships between marine organisms

and the physical environments in which they live. The comprehensive focus of this course covers both Physical and

Biological Oceanography. Students will be engaged in multiple inquiry based collaborative laboratory investigations that

will develop problem solving and critical thinking skills to formulate arguments based on scientific data to explain natural

phenomena and design solutions to current global problems.

Course Descriptions

Physics

UC/CSU: d

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 10-12: Passed Biology (B or better) OR Passed Honors Biology (C or better) AND

Enrolled in Algebra II or higher

Physics is an introductory course for the college-bound student who wishes to undertake a challenging science course.

This course is designed to help all students develop a basic understanding of physics and is a great link to mathematics

with its regular use of Algebra/Trigonometry skills. This course emphasizes a study of motion with basics in Mechanics,

Thermal Energy, Electricity and Magnetism, Sound and Light. The ultimate goal of this course is to teach students how

to think like a physicist by communicating clearly, sorting through ideas and relating them to concepts.

Sports Medicine

UC/CSU: d - must complete fall and spring semesters for UC/CSU credit

NCAA: No

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12. Biological Science graduation credit for CUSD students.

Students will be introduced to the care, prevention and rehabilitation of athletic injuries. Also included in the course will

be CPR certification, strength and conditioning principles relative to fitness clubs, athletic training rooms, physical

therapy clinics, YMCAs, and chiropractic offices.

Course Offerings

SOCIAL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

American Government

AP Art History (earns UC/CSU F requirement)

AP European History

AP Government/Economics

AP Psychology

AP US History

Economics

Honors World History

Psychology

US History

World History

Course Descriptions

American Government

UC/CSU: a

NCAA: Yes

Length: Semester - 5 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 12: This course counts towards the Econ/Gov grad requirement, Note: Students

take American Government for a semester and Economics for a semester

This course focuses on the major events that have helped to shape the modern political world. This course is aligned

with the California State Framework and will provide students with a concise, yet detailed understanding of the United

States political structure, past and present.

AP Art History

UC/CSU: f (This course is a VPA elective, NOT social science credit,)

NCAA: No

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Earned a B or better in English I OR Earned a C or better in Honors English II AND

Passed Honors World History OR concurrent enrollment in World History OR concurrent enrollment in AP

European History

This course is equivalent to a two-semester college survey course exploring the nature of art, art making, and responses

to art. By investigating specific course content of 250 works of art characterized by diverse artistic traditions from

prehistory to the present, students develop in-depth, holistic understanding of the history of art from a global perspective.

Students become active participants in the global art world, engaging with its forms and content. They experience,

research, discuss, read, and write about art, artists, art making, responses to, and interpretations of art. This course is

designed to prepare students for the AP examination.

AP European History

UC/CSU: a

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 10: This course meets the World History grad requirement, Earned a B or better

in English I OR Enrolled in Honors English II

This course focuses on developing students' understanding of European history from approximately 1450 to the present.

The course has students investigate the content of European history for significant events, individuals, developments,

and processes in four historical periods, and develop and use the same thinking skills and methods (analyzing primary

and secondary sources, making historical comparisons, chronological reasoning, and argumentation) employed by

historians when they study the past. The course also provides five themes (interaction of Europe and the world; poverty

and prosperity; objective knowledge and subjective visions; states and other institutions of power; and individual and

society) that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in

different times and places. This course is designed to prepare students for the AP examination.

Course Descriptions

AP Government/Economics

UC/CSU: a

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 12: This course meets the Econ/Gov graduation requirement. Earned a B or

better in US History OR Earned a C or better in AP US History

This course will give students an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. Students will

study in depth the U.S. Constitution, various governmental institutions, the role played by interest groups and political

parties, as well as an examination of the beliefs and values that make up American political culture. Students will analyze

and explain typical political processes/beliefs and their consequences. This course is designed to prepare students for

the AP examination.

AP Psychology

UC/CSU: g (This course is a “G” requirement for the UC system, not social science credit)

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines:. Grade 11/12 : A or B in prior Soc. Sci. Course or A, B or C in prior AP Soc. Sci.

Course. (not open to 9th or 10th graders)

This course introduces students to the study of the mind and behavior. The course covers a wide range of topics.

These include research methods, human development, sensation,perception, learning, cognition, motivation,

emotion, personality, intelligence, mental disorders, biological psychology, social psychology and health psychology.

AP Psychology is a weighted course designed to prepare students for the AP examination.

AP US History

UC/CSU: a

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 11: This course meets the US History grad requirement; Enrolled in AP Language

and Composition OR Earned a B or better in 10th grade social science OR Earned a C or better in 10th grade

AP social science

This course is a full year survey in American history. The course timeline begins in the Pre Columbian era and concludes

in the present day. The course will be taught chronologically with an emphasis placed on major themes as they unfold

throughout the nation’s history. The course is designed for students who wish to take the AP exam in early May or those

who wish to complete an advanced study of American history. The AP US History exam presumes at least one full

academic year of college level preparation; the course will attempt to replicate that preparation. Course content is

dictated by the College Boardand will include all elements of the California state standards for 11th grade US History.

Economics

UC/CSU: g

NCAA: Yes

Length: semester: 5 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 12: This course counts towards the Econ/Gov grad requirement, Note: Students

take American Government for a semester and Economics for a semester

This required course provides a survey of economic concepts and skills that will give students a sound grasp of both

the theoretical and practical approaches to economics including micro and macroeconomics. This course also

emphasizes global interdependence, including a unit on world trade. A unit on finances, investment and banking is also

included.

Course Descriptions

Honors World History

UC/CSU: a

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 9: Enrolled in Honors English I or Meets the criteria for Honors English I;

Recommendation: Concurrent enrollment in Honors English 1. This combination is designed to prepare

students for the rigors of AP classes in their sophomore year. This class will receive a weighted grade for

CUSD Only

This course will provide students with a rigorous course focused on developing their understanding of the world’s major

historical events beginning with the rise of democracy and ending with modern revolutions. In line with California

Common Core State Standards, the class takes a chronological approach to the curriculum where students will identify,

analyze and evaluate major historical themes as well as the historical roots of current world issues. Areas to be studied

Include the Rise of Democracy, Age of Enlightenment, Revolutions, the Industrial Revolution, Imperialism, World War

I, Totalitarianism, World War II, the Cold War, and the Modern World. Students will study major historical themes

throughout the course including politics and the rise of democratic ideas in order to develop an understanding of the

historical roots of current world issues, especially within the international community. Students will learn and extensively

practice a variety of skills including, but not limited to: analyzing primary and secondary documents, crafting articulate,

well-written DBQ responses, and completing inquiry-based projects. These practices will best prepare them for success

in future courses taken within the Advanced Placement Programs.

Psychology

UC/CSU: g (this course is a UC elective, NOT social science credit)

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year -10 credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 11 and 12: no criteria needed.

This is a one semester introductory course designed to survey the major principles of Psychology. Psychology is an

academic and applied discipline that involves the scientific study of mental functions and behaviors. Psychologists

attempt to understand the role of mental functions in individual and social behavior, while also exploring the physiological

and biological processes that underlie cognitive functions and behaviors. Psychologists explore concepts such as

perception, cognition, attention, emotion, motivation, brain functioning, personality, behavior, and interpersonal

relationships.

US History

UC/CSU: a

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 11: Completed World History, college prep; this course meets the US History

grad requirement

This course is designed to give students an in depth look at the history of the United States during the 20th century.

The course will begin with a brief review of the founding and early development of our country, through the Civil War

and leading to industrialization. There will be a focus on examining primary source documents to better understand the

key issues and themes that have shaped the United States during the 1900’s. Students will be challenged to interpret

and analyze historical information through the eyes of those who lived it, in order to better understand the country and

world we live in.

Course Descriptions

World History

UC/CSU: a

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 10: This course meets the World History grad requirement; listed as

“Wh/Geo/Cult” in Aeries portal.

This course will focus on the study of major turning points that shaped the modern world, beginning with the rise of

democracy and ending with modern revolutions. In line with California Common Core State Standards, the class

takes a chronological approach to the curriculum where students will identify, analyze and evaluate major historical

themes as well as the historical roots of current world issues. Areas to be studied include the Rise of Democracy, Age

of Enlightenment, the Industrial Revolution, Imperialism, World War I, Totalitarianism, World War II, the Cold War, and

the Modern World. Students develop an understanding of current world issues and relate them to their historical,

geographic, political, economic, and cultural contexts. They will also learn a variety of skills including, but not limited

to: analyzing primary and secondary documents and crafting articulate, well-written DBQ responses.

Course Offerings

World Language Department

French I

French II

French III

AP French IV

Spanish I

Spanish II

Spanish III

Spanish IV

AP Spanish IV

AP Spanish V

Spanish for Spanish Speakers I

Spanish for Spanish Speakers II

Course Descriptions

French I

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12; no criteria needed

This year-long college prep elective provides the student with communicative experiences in the target language

necessary to gain and give information for personal and social purposes in various contextual settings. The course

offers students without any previous formal French experience the opportunity to study the basic principles for learning

to speak, read, and write the French language.

French II

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12; successful completion of French I

This year-long college prep elective offers students who have successfully completed French I or the equivalent the

opportunity to continue the study of the basic principles of the French language. The language used is authentic and

current, reflecting the language spoken and read in a Francophone society. Instruction is student-centered and

communication-based.

French III

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12:successful completion of French II

This course offers students who have successfully completed French II or the equivalent the opportunity to continue the

study of the French language and culture. The student is provided with communicative experiences in the target

language necessary to inform, inquire after, and give information in more complex situational contexts.

AP French IV

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12

This course is conducted in French and continues to develop oral skills that improve the student’s fluency in French

with an emphasis on practical vocabulary. Stress is given to a systematic review of those topics of French grammar

designed to reinforce the student’s comprehension and ability to express himself/herself in French, both orally and in

writing. The student will be expected to read and discuss literary selections from various French authors. Aspects of

both contemporary and traditional French culture will be explored. After completing this course, students are expected

to take the AP examination in the French language.

Course Descriptions

Spanish I

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 9-12

This course provides the student with communicative experiences in the target language necessary to gain and give

information for personal and social purposes in various contextual settings. The course offers students without any

previous formal Spanish experience the opportunity to study the basic principles for learning to speak, read, and write

the Spanish language.

Spanish II

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 9-12

This course offers students who have successfully completed Spanish I or the equivalent the opportunity to continue

the study of the basic principles of the Spanish language. The language used is authentic and current, reflecting the

language spoken and read in a Spanish-speaking society. Instruction is student-centered and communication-based.

Spanish III

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 10-12

This course offers students who have successfully completed Spanish II or the equivalent, the opportunity to continue

the study of the Spanish language and culture. The student is provided with communicative experiences in the target

language necessary to inform, inquire after, and give information in more complex situational contexts. A student must

pass either 10 credits of fine arts or 10 credits of the same world language in order to graduate. All the following world

language courses are approved for the University of California and are recommended for college preparatory students.

situational contexts.

Spanish IV

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 10-12

Spanish only is spoken by teachers and students. The course emphasizes speaking fluency and vocabulary extension.

This course may be selected by students preparing for advanced language acquisition yet not seeking Advanced

Placement credits.

Course Descriptions

AP Spanish IV

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 10-12

Spanish only is spoken by teachers and students at this level. The course emphasizes speaking fluency and vocabulary

extension. Grammar is used more as a source to pinpoint weaknesses and errors than as a consecutive study. Short

stories, novels, newspapers, poetry, and other sources, which reflect the greatness of Spanish literature, are studied

and read. Oral discussion in Spanish is conducted on an individual, small group, and large group basis. After completion

of this course, some students may elect to take the Advanced Placement examination in the Spanish language.

AP Spanish V

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades 9-12

Conducted entirely in Spanish, this course is an equivalent of a one-year college introduction to Hispanic Literature,

covering selected works from the literatures of Spain and Spanish America. The history and culture of Spain and

Spanish America is emphasized through readings, extensive discussions, compositions, and review of grammatical

principles. Students will be equipped and prepared to converse, read and write about various topics at a near fluency

level. After completing this course, some students may elect to take the Advanced Placement examination in the

Spanish language or literature.

Spanish for Spanish Speakers I

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 9-12

This year-long college prep elective is designed to further develop and improve the overall Spanish linguistic skills

students already possess. Students in this class will not only learn the standard forms of the language, but will also

explore and expand their understanding of the Hispanic world and its presence in the United States through literature,

history, geography, and cultural units. For this purpose, pupils will participate in learning activities which emphasize

meaningful communication, fluency, critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and positive self-image. This course is

designed to create bilingual, biliterate, and bicultural students.

Spanish for Spanish Speakers II

UC/CSU: e

NCAA: Yes

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 9-12

This year-long college prep elective offers students who have successfully completed Spanish for Spanish Speakers I

or the equivalent, the opportunity to further develop and improve the overall Spanish linguistic skills students already

possess. Students in this class will not only learn the standard forms of the language, but will also explore and expand

their understanding of the Hispanic world and its presence in the United States through literature, history, geography,

and cultural units. For this purpose pupils will participate in learning activities which emphasize meaningful

communication, fluency, critical thinking skills, cultural awareness, and positive self-image. This course is designed to

create bilingual, biliterate and bicultural students who will be prepared to continue with their formal study of Spanish in

the upper level course.

Course Offerings

Fine Arts Department (Visual and Performing Art)

Actors Repertory

Actors Repertory Advanced

AP Art History

AP Drawing

AP Music Theory

Architectural Design for Architects

Architectural Design for Engineers

Architectural Engineer Advanced

Beginning Guitar

Chamber Orchestra

Concert Band

Concert Choir

Culinary Arts

Digital Photo

Drama Advanced

Course Offerings

Fine Arts Department (Visual & Performing Arts)

Drama I

Draw and Painting

Film Studies

Madrigals

Multimedia Design (1st year of yearbook)

Rapid Prototype

Stagecraft

Stagecraft Intro

String Orchestra

Theater Production

TV Broadcast Journalism

Video Production

Video Production Advanced

Wind Ensemble

Course Descriptions

Actors Repertory

UC/CSU: f (must complete fall and spring semesters for UC/CSU credit)

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 10-12

This advanced course offers the student experience in performance situations. The student will study acting, directing,

producing, and dramaturgy through multiple performance experiences. There is a prerequisite of one year of Advanced

Drama for this course and/or Drama/Musical Comedy and admission into the class is by audition only. This class may

be taken for a total of 4 semesters as Actors Repertory and Actors Rep Advanced.

AP Art History

UC/CSU: f (must complete fall and spring semesters for UC/CSU credit)

NCAA: Not Applicable

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grade 10: A or B in English 1/Honors English 1 or Honors World History

Grades 11-12: A or B in Grade 10 or 11 Social Science Course or A, B or C in Grade 10 or 11 AP Social Science

Course

This course is the equivalent to a two-semester college survey course exploring the nature of art, art making, and

responses to art. By investigating specific course content of 250 works of art characterized by diverse artistic traditions

from prehistory to the present, students develop in-depth, holistic understanding of the history of art from a global

perspective. Students become active participants in the global art world, engaging with its forms and content. They

experience, research, discuss, read, and write about art, artists, art making, responses to, and interpretations of art.

This course is designed to prepare students for the AP examination.

AP Drawing

UC/CSU: f (must complete fall and spring semesters for UC/CSU credit)

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 10-12

The AP Art and Design Program includes three different courses: AP 2-D Art and Design, AP 3-D Art and Design, and

AP Drawing. In each course, you’ll investigate materials, processes, and ideas. You’ll make works of art and design by

practicing, experimenting, and revising, and you will communicate your ideas about art and design through written and

visual expression.

AP Music Theory and Dictation

UC/CSU: f (must complete fall and spring semesters for UC/CSU credit)

NCAA: Not Applicable

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 11-12

This course is an intensive study of the units of musical structure in the common practice period of Western music,

including aural recognition, writing, and analysis of melody, rhythm, cord structure and the simple units of musical form.

Also included are the accurate notation of melody and rhythm from dictation and the development of sight-singing skills.

Course Descriptions

Architectural Design for Architects

UC/CSU: f (must complete fall and spring semesters for UC/CSU credit)

Length: Year - 10 Credits

Placement Guidelines: Grades: 9-12

This course provides skills required for drafting and computer-assisted drafting (CAD), including architectural and

electro/mechanical drawing. Students learn to use media and drafting materials, identify line styles and weights,

distinguish different views, read prints, use correct graphic terminology, create lettering and freehand technical

sketches, use descriptive geometry in CAD drafting, apply dimensioning and tolerance principles, and create drawings

using state-of-the-art CAD software, including single view. Continued orthographic drawings, auxiliary view, pictorial,

and assembly drawings.Students will be introduced to 3D printing and laser cutter in all Architect Design and

Advanced Architect design. Students apply math skills throughout the course, including measurement and geometry.

This course is a part of the Career and Tech. Education Architecture or Engineering Pathway.