Avon Grove High School
Course Planning Guide
2024-2025
10 Waltman Way
West Grove, PA 19390
610-869-2446
AVON GROVE HIGH SCHOOL
10 Waltman Way
West Grove, PA 19390
ADMINISTRATION
Dr. Christie Snead Principal
Mr. Gary Benasutti Assistant Principal
Ms. Angela Houghton Assistant Principal
Ms. Ashley Penn Assistant Principal
Mr. Kyle Christy Activity/Athletic Director
GUIDANCE
Ms. Colleen Demers Counselor
Ms. Kate Garrison Counselor
Mr. CJ Hoffman Counselor
Ms. Jennifer Lubins Counselor
Ms. Elaine Markowitz Counselor
Ms. Sarah Rodgers Counselor
Mr. Scott Searfoss Counselor
TELEPHONE NUMBERS
AGHS Main Office 610-869-2446
AGHS Guidance Office 610-869-2446
AGMS Main Office 610-869-3022
Chester County Technical
College High School 610-345-1800
Avon Grove School District Website:
www.avongrove.org
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION
Profile of a Future Ready AG Graduate 1
AGHS Top Ten Skills 3
Five Pathway Options 7
Academic Information 8
Graduation Requirements 9
Blended Learning 13
Gifted Education 14
Special Education 14
Career & Technical Education 14
Dual Enrollment 15
Job Shadowing 15
NCAA Eligibility 16
Course Overview Listing 17
COURSE SELECTIONS
Applied Engineering 68
Art 75
Business, Computer & Info Tech 63
English 26
English Language Development 91
Family & Consumer Sciences 83
Health & Physical Education 61
Mathematics 35
Music 87
Science 41
Social Studies 48
World Languages 55
NONDISCRIMINATION POLICY
The Avon Grove School District is an equal opportunity education institution and will not discriminate in its educational
programs, activities, or employment practices on the basis of race, color, creed, national origin, sex, age, religion,
ancestry, sexual orientation, handicap, union membership, or other legally protected classification. Announcement of
this policy is in accordance with state and federal laws, including Title VI, Title IX, and Section 504. All inquiries should be
made to Dr. Wendi Lee Kraft, Director of Personnel, Avon Grove School District, 375 South Jennersville Road, West Grove,
PA 19390, (610) 869-2441.
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The Profile of a Future Ready Avon Grove Graduate is the outcome of a collective design process completed by forty-one
stakeholders from the Avon Grove school community. This group included students, parents, district educators, and
community partners.
The Profile of a Future Ready Avon Grove Graduate serves as a north star to guide the school district toward achieving its
mission and vision by preparing our learners to succeed in any path that they choose after high school. The mission of the
school district is “to foster a learning environment in which all students are exceptionally well-prepared to succeed and lead
meaningful lives” and the vision of the school district is “that all Avon Grove students are well-prepared to create their
futures.” To support achieving the district’s mission and vision, the Profile of a Future Ready Avon Grove Graduate
describes the competencies that students will develop as they acquire knowledge, apply skills, and build character through
experiences in our schools and in partnership with the Avon Grove school community. These competencies should ensure
success for all of our learners after graduation.
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P.A.T.H.S. to Purpose:
Academic Information and
Course Offerings
“Learning is not attained by chance;
it must be sought for with ardor and attended to with diligence.”
― Abigail Adams
P
➡
Preparation
Think Before You Act
Seek Out Opportunities
A
➡
Attitude
Respect Yourself and Others
Stay Positive
T
➡
Traits
Be Responsible
Have the Courage to Do the Right Thing
H
➡
Habits
Begin with the End in Mind
Have High Standards But Set Attainable Goals
S
➡
Skills
AGHS Top Ten Skills!
AGHS TOP TEN SKILLS
Ten Ways AGHS Prepares You for the World of Work and Life
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The purpose of the Avon Grove School District is to foster a learning environment for all students to be
exceptionally well prepared to succeed and lead full and meaningful lives. We want to provide our
students with a solid academic foundation and the career skills needed to succeed in the future,
whatever path they choose. Understanding how our classes provide not only educational content but
also the opportunity to build skills valued in the workforce is critical because the state of our economy
has created fierce competition for spots in post-secondary schools and programs, as well as for jobs.
Although the professional environment may seem far away, the time to prepare is now. School is full of
opportunities to develop the qualities most important to employers.
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Attention to Detail
Paying attention to detail may seem tedious and time-consuming; however, it is well worth the effort. When you are
double-checking your calculations for a math problem, carefully citing sources for a research paper, or making sure you
meet all of the requirements on a rubric for an assignment, you are paying close attention to detail. Avon Grove examples
include: double-checking your answers on a test, reading the directions carefully before beginning an assignment, being
aware of due dates for projects and planning accordingly, and reading the AGHS Student/Parent Handbook to familiarize
yourself with policies and procedures such as the test policy.
Paying attention to detail will come in handy in any workplace, whether you maintain a database, keep a log of the hours
you spend with clients, or simply write emails. An engineer working on building a bridge will need to make sure all
measurements are accurate, a hairdresser needs to make sure hair is cut evenly, postal workers need to make sure mail
gets to the appropriate address, and a daycare worker needs to be aware of any food allergies that a child in their class may
have to avoid potential exposure.
Calm Under Pressure
Staying calm in a pressure-filled situation is a skill everyone needs. Figuring out how to act when spontaneously faced with
a difficult situation can give even the calmest person anxiety. Learning how to deal with these situations as early on as
possible is the key to staying calm under pressure and overcoming these obstacles. Avon Grove examples include: trying
out/performing at the Holiday Holla, getting called on in class when you did not have your hand raised and did not know
the answer, trying out for a sports team that is already established, forgetting to complete an assignment and/or study for
an exam, and taking any test that is timed (such as the dreaded SAT).
Every job has the potential to put an employee in a pressure-filled situation. Journalists work with tight deadlines on a
regular basis, surgeons need to make life-and-death decisions in seconds, a waiter may have to deal with a dissatisfied or
angry customer, and if you are the boss of a company you may need to make the tough decision to lay off an employee
during the holiday season.
Honesty
Such a simple word, yet at times it can be a challenge, to be honest. Students are presented with the opportunity to
demonstrate this skill on a daily basis. If you make a mistake or choose to behave badly, do you take responsibility for your
actions? If you know you can get away with something, such as cheating, do you do it or not? Avon Grove examples include:
your best friend wants to copy your homework, which is a violation of the Avon Grove Academic Honor Code; you do not
know the response to a test question, but you can clearly see the answer on the paper of the student who sits next to you;
the cafeteria staff asks, “Who threw that grape?” and you know who did it, or it was you, but you deny it; and you want to
break up with your girlfriend/boyfriend, but you do not want to hurt his/her feelings.
Potential employers need to know that they can trust you with everything from credit cards to trade secrets. If you want to
be a counselor, your clients will need to trust you with their personal situations. If you work in the banking or accounting
industries, there may be the temptation to steal and the opportunity to get away with it. If you work in retail and someone
forgets his/her credit card or walks away without his/her change, will you try to return it?
Initiative
In the classroom environment, there are many opportunities to take initiative. Every time you are the first one to offer your
help or a solution to a problem, volunteer to lead a discussion, take on a leadership role, or demonstrate a new concept,
you are taking initiative. Taking initiative is important because it allows you to develop self-advocacy skills, as well as
communication skills. Avon Grove examples include: offering to take a lead role in a group project (such as being a
presenter), starting up a new club or activity, communicating ahead of time with your teachers for missed work prior to a
planned absence, asking for help with course material, and volunteering to demonstrate a new skill in gym class.
Employers value a confident, can-do attitude, as well as employees who come up with new ideas and chart their own
progress throughout projects. In many sales jobs, employees are required to call businesses in order to obtain new clients
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and/or sell a product. As an aspiring chef you may have new ideas for the menu and need to take the initiative to present
your ideas to the head chef. If you are starting a landscaping business, you need to build your client base by knocking on
doors and creating flyers.
Problem-Solving Skills
No matter how carefully you plan, it is inevitable that you will be faced with a problem. The sooner you build skills and learn
strategies, the more likely you will be able to identify and resolve problems quickly and effectively, and the less likely you
will fall victim to the same problem again. Every interaction you have in both your professional and personal lives is an
opportunity to weigh all possible outcomes carefully and decide on your actions. Avon Grove examples include: how to
handle when your team member does not do his/her part, what to do if you are struggling in a class, and how you react
when you hear that someone is spreading rumors about you or a friend.
Even as you leave high school behind, you will encounter similar situations and similar conflicts. As a working professional,
you will keep solving problems, whether they are computer programming bugs or budget shortfalls. In the world of
advertising, someone may try to take credit for your idea; if you work in public relations, your celebrity/athlete client may
routinely embarrass him/herself; and technology may fail you right before an important deadline. Unfortunately, some
things are out of your control. What you can control is your response, and that will determine your success.
Rising to the Challenge
Learning to work through challenges will lead to much success in life. Perseverance, never giving up, is a quality that is
valued in the world of work because employers know that they can count on you to get the job done. There may be times in
life when you have to let go, but the decision should come once all other avenues and resources have been exhausted.
Avon Grove examples include: sticking with a class and seeking help instead of dropping either the course or the level,
resolving conflict with a peer rather than giving up the relationship, and practicing harder rather than quitting the team.
Last but not least, learning to rise to the challenge will see you through the initial weeks of a new job. It will also serve you
well as you advance in your working life, taking on new projects, building expertise, and branching into new areas of
interest. While your grandparents may have worked for the same company their entire lives, today's workforce is mobile,
with most people changing careers, not just jobs, throughout their lifetime.
Speaking Skills
Public speaking as well as appropriate tone and language are other forms of communication skills that are highly desirable
across professions. It is important to “know your audience,” and use formal language appropriate to the situation. Avon
Grove examples include: addressing staff by first or last name without Mr./Ms./Mrs., answering “what?!” when an adult in
the building asks a question (being mindful of your tone), using foul language or derogatory terms without regard for your
surroundings, and having to present “Reading Minutes” in front of your entire English class beginning freshman year.
Nothing seems to raise anxiety more than an assignment that includes a presentation to the class. Avoidance may be your
instinct, but in reality, the more you practice this skill, the more comfortable you will become speaking in front of others.
This is a skill that will serve you well no matter what path you may follow. For example, in the business world, you will likely
have to pitch your ideas to your coworkers in a group setting, as well as to potential clients. Future teachers will stand in
front of a class every day. Future doctors will present case studies to a variety of audiences. In the world of cosmetology,
effective communication skills are the key to building and maintaining your client base, as well as your tip jar!
Teamwork Skills
Even if you are not wearing a jersey, you will have to work as part of a team in the majority of occupations. Teamwork skills
transcend the work environment, impacting your relationships both professional and personal. By the time you leave high
school; you can be an expert in teamwork, an increasingly important skill in today's workplace. Avon Grove examples
include: doing your fair share of the work and doing it well, showing up on the day that your group is supposed to present,
allowing each member of the group to have a voice, and recognizing that everyone can make a valuable contribution to the
task at hand.
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In addition to voicing your opinions, the most important aspects of teamwork are listening, responding to others, and
reaching compromises. In a team setting, every member is integral to the success of the group, whether you are working in
person with your team or online using a Google Document. There really is no “I” in the word team!
Time Management
High school students can feel pulled in many directions between school, sports/activities, a job, and family responsibilities.
Sometimes it can feel as though there is never enough time in the day to get everything done. Learning how to manage
your time is an important skill because as you go through life, the type of demands on your time may change but you will
still need to balance/prioritize your responsibilities. Avon Grove examples include breaking down a long-term project into
smaller chunks, attending practice and preparing for an exam while making time for a friend who needs to talk, and making
sure you meet deadlines for your postsecondary applications.
Learning to juggle the many demands on your time may seem overwhelming at times, but this skill is ultimately
valuable since most jobs require multitasking. In the sales field, you will need to take care of current clients while attracting
new ones, future teachers will have to respond to emails and phone calls and develop lesson plans for the week while
teaching four classes in a row, and if you manage a restaurant, you will need to order tomorrow's produce while planning
next week's menu.
Writing Skills
In a recent survey of employers, communication topped the list of skills they look for the most. Employers have also
expressed concern that with the popularity of social media and texting, the quality of written communication skills has
declined. Avon Grove examples include writing “IDK” on a quiz when you do not know the answer, writing the letter “u” for
“you,” using “their” for “there,” and other grammatical and spelling errors.
By doing your best on every research paper and lab report you write, you are building and reinforcing those skills as well as
preparing yourself for a career. Before you even get the chance to interview, you will need to represent yourself in cover
letters and resumes. For example, health professionals keep patient charts, researchers and artists depend on the money
they collect by writing grant applications, software engineers write technical specifications, and nearly everyone writes
emails to people inside and outside of their organization.
(Adapted from Collegeboard.com)
Please note: All course descriptions in this guide contain the top three skills students will learn/use in that particular
course. Thank you to our teachers and former students for the time and effort with this project.
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FIVE PATHWAY OPTIONS
ARTS, A/V TECHNOLOGY, AND COMMUNICATIONS
This pathway is designed to cultivate students’ awareness, interpretation, application, and production of visual, verbal, and
written work.
Cluster Areas:
● Performing Arts (PA)
● Visual Arts (VA)
● Communication Arts (CA)
BUSINESS MANAGEMENT AND ADMINISTRATION
This pathway is designed to prepare students for careers in the world of business, finance, and information services.
Cluster Areas:
● Marketing, Sales, and Service (MS)
● Finance (F)
● Business Management (BM)
HEALTH SCIENCES
This pathway is designed to cultivate students’ interests in the life, physical, and behavioral sciences, as well as the planning,
managing, and providing of therapeutic services, diagnostic services, health information, and biochemistry research
development.
Cluster Areas:
● Science and Health (SH)
● Agriculture, Food, and Natural Resources (AFN)
HUMAN SERVICES
This pathway is designed to cultivate students’ interests, skills, and experience for employment in careers related to family
and human needs.
Cluster Areas:
● Counseling and Personal Care (CPC)
● Education (E)
● Law, Public Safety, and Government (PU)
● Hospitality and Tourism (HT)
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, AND MATH
This pathway is designed to cultivate students’ interests, awareness, and application to areas related to technologies
necessary to design, develop, install, or maintain physical systems.
Cluster Areas:
● Construction and Architecture (CAT)
● Information Technology (IT)
● Manufacturing (M)
● Engineering and Engineering Technology (ET)
● Transportation, Distribution, and Logistics (TDL)
8
ACADEMIC, COURSE SELECTION, AND
PROMOTION/GRADUATION GUIDELINES
Credit Requirements for Graduation
A minimum of twenty-five (25) credits shall be required for graduation. The graduation credit requirements listed below are
minimums. Students should continue to take the most challenging courses available to them. The following credits are
required in specific disciplines:
Course Title
Units of
Credit
Grade
9
Grade
10
Grade
11
Grade
12
English
4.0
X
X
X
X
Mathematics
4.0
X
X
X
X
Science
3.0
X
X
X
Social Studies
3.0
X
X
X
Health
0.5
X
Physical Education
2.0
Electives
8.5
Total Credit Requirement
25.0
Promotion Requirements
Promotion Requirements for 9th graders to become 10th graders:
Must earn at least 6 credits
Promotion Requirements for 10th graders to become 11th graders:
Must earn a cumulative total of at least 12 credits
Promotion Requirements for 11th graders to become 12th graders:
Must earn a cumulative total of at least 18 credits
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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS
Keystone Pathway State Graduation Requirements
For students graduating in 2023 and beyond, the following options exist to meet the statewide graduation requirement:
● Keystone Proficiency Pathway: Scoring proficient or advanced on each Keystone Exam - Algebra I, Literature, and
Biology.
● Keystone Composite Pathway: Earning a composite score of 4452 on the Algebra I, Literature, and Biology Keystone
Exams (while achieving at least a proficient score on at least one of the three exams and no less than a basic score on
the remaining two).
● Alternate Assessment Pathway: Earn a passing grade for the academic course associated with each Keystone Exam on
which the student did not achieve proficiency and one of the following:
o Attainment of an established score on an approved alternate assessment (SAT, PSAT, ACT, ASVAB);
o Gold Level on the ACT WorkKeys Assessment;
o Attainment of an established score on an Advanced Placement Program or an International Baccalaureate
Diploma Program exam in an academic content area associated with each Keystone Exam on which the
student did not achieve at least a proficient score;
o Successful completion of a concurrent enrollment course in an academic content area associated with each
Keystone Exam in which the student did not achieve at least a proficient score;
o Successful completion of a pre-apprenticeship program; or
o Acceptance in an accredited 4-year nonprofit institution of higher education and evidence of the ability to
enroll in college-level coursework.
● Evidence Based Pathway: Earn a passing grade for the academic course associated with each Keystone Exam on which
the student did not achieve proficiency and demonstration of three pieces of evidence consistent with the student's
goals and career plans, including
o One of the following:
▪ Attainment of an established score on the ACT WorkKeys assessment, a SAT subject test, an
Advanced Placement Program Exam, or an International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Exam;
▪ Acceptance to an accredited nonprofit institution of higher education other than a 4-year institution
and evidence of the ability to enroll in college-level coursework;
▪ Attainment of an industry-recognized credential; or
▪ Successful completion of a concurrent enrollment or postsecondary course; and
o Two additional pieces of evidence, including one or more of the options listed above, or
▪ satisfactory completion of a service learning project
▪ attainment of a score of proficient or advanced on a Keystone Exam
▪ a letter guaranteeing full-time employment
▪ a certificate of successful completion of an internship or cooperative education program; or
▪ satisfactory compliance with the NCAA's core courses for college-bound student athletes with a
minimum grade point average (GPA) of 2.0.
● CTE Pathway: For Career and Technical Education (CTE) Concentrators, earn a passing grade for the academic course
associated with each Keystone Exam on which the student did not achieve proficiency and attainment of an industry-
based competency certification related to the CTE Concentrator's program of study or demonstration of a high
likelihood of success on an approved industry-based competency assessment or readiness for continued meaningful
engagement in the CTE Concentrator's program of study. For further explanation of the CTE Pathway, please see
PDE's Act 6 guidance.
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11
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Graduation Portfolio
All students will have the opportunity to make informed decisions about their postsecondary plans and career goals based on
self- and exploration. While it is a state mandate and a graduation requirement to complete the Career Portfolio, it is also a
terrific opportunity to help all students develop a meaningful postsecondary plan.
All Avon Grove High School students will complete a Career Portfolio by May of their Junior year using Naviance. The Career
Portfolio consists of a minimum of 8 career activities completed in grades 9-11, which address areas of career
awareness/preparation, acquisition, retention/advancement, and entrepreneurship. We hope that the Career Portfolio can
serve as a guide for each student as they transition to postsecondary (after high school) education/training, the workplace,
or both.
Advanced Placement/Honors Weighting Explanation
Advanced Placement courses are weighted an additional 1.0 quality point. For example, an A+ earned by a student in an AP
course is calculated into the grade point average as a 5.5 instead of the 4.5 earned in an unweighted course. Honors courses are
weighted an additional 0.5 quality point. For example, an A+ earned by a student in an honors course is calculated into the
grade point average as 5.0 instead of the 4.5 earned in an unweighted course. All weighted courses are marked with an * on the
course description pages.
Course Selection Process
The course selection process begins in February. Students have the opportunity to review and change courses during the course
selection verification process in the spring and finalize changes before the summer break. Students and families are encouraged
to give serious consideration to their course choices and to use the Career Pathways section of the course planning guide to
help with the decision-making process. The expectation is that all students will be scheduled for 8 credits.
If a parent/caregiver disagrees with a recommended course, he or she should contact the recommending teacher to discuss the
reasons for the recommendation. Parents/caregivers may further address recommended courses with their child’s guidance
counselor.
Students are provided with a wealth of information to help them select courses. The Guidance Department will conduct
presentations to all students in grades 9-11 to help them understand the course selection process's importance and educate
them about Career Pathways, a framework to assist them in choosing courses.
The Guidance Department conducts course selection verifications with all students in grades 9-11 throughout the spring. The
goals of the verification process are to ensure that data has been entered correctly and to offer students an opportunity to
change course choices prior to the end of the school year. Thus, since students receive multiple opportunities to discuss and
review their course selection, the last day of school in the year in which course selection takes place is the final date courses
can be changed. After that date, courses can only be changed under the following circumstances:
● Computer/data entry error
● Prerequisite for the course not met/course failure
Course Change Policies
No lunch, teacher, or study hall changes will be allowed. If a student needs to change lunch due to a medical issue,
documentation must be provided, and the family must keep in mind that the change may affect (elective) courses because of
the design of the master schedule.
Expectations for External Credit Approval
Current AGHS students may request approval to have courses that are taken at outside accredited institutions count for original
credit at AGHS and appear on the AGHS transcript. To qualify for this option, the requesting student must:
● Be a currently enrolled student in the District and have completed grade 8 with a recommendation for promotion to
grade 9,
● Request approval for the specific course prior to enrollment in the course,
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● Receive approval of the course and its equivalent from AGHS,
● Pay for the desired course (if necessary),
● Not expect the course to be part of the AGSD offer of Free and Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) for a student
identified with a disability, nor consider approval of the request to be such, and
● Provide all grade requirements and documentation to AGHS within sixty (60) days of completion of the course.
Courses must be completed by June 1
st
of the graduating year. Only final grades will be incorporated into a transcript; grades
during a marking period will not be listed on the report card. Families should check with the NCAA for any academic
requirements that may be needed for student-athletes.
Course requests for specific courses that are required for graduation and include a Pennsylvania Keystone Exam will not be
accepted. Courses taken at outside institutions that are classified as Advanced Placement will be weighted as defined in the
course description handbook. All other courses will receive no weighting in the calculation of grade point average (GPA) or class
rank.
BLENDED LEARNING
As technology availability has increased, and its application to learning has evolved, the terms “synchronous” and
“asynchronous” are associated with where and when students are learning. The traditional classroom setting is most
commonly associated with “synchronous” learning, specifically meaning that students and teachers are in the same place at
the same time as teaching and learning are occurring. “Asynchronous” learning has evolved in recent years to mean that
students are learning at a time and space separate from their teachers, typically online, using a variety of technological
tools to support their needs. In a “blended” environment, students and teachers will incorporate both modalities, with
teachers providing students significant opportunities for collaboration and independent practice (asynchronous), while also
scheduling regular interactions and time for support (synchronous) when identified by either the student or the teacher.
AGHS, in recognizing the future needs of our students, will allow students to request a blended variation, when available, of
a traditional course option as part of a student’s master schedule. Courses labeled as “blended” options within the course
handbook will still occupy one period within the existing bell schedule, and will occur during the regularly scheduled
student day. As with other scheduled courses at AGHS, the availability of sections in this modality will be dependent upon
student requests and teacher availability, and the request for a blended course is not a guarantee of placement in that
course option. Both the blended and traditional offerings of a course will meet the same course outcomes and will be
awarded the same credit on a student’s report card and final transcript.
When considering whether or not a blended course may be the best option for learning, a student should consider her/his
strengths and goals, specifically connected to the personal traits of time management, responsibility, self-awareness, and
self-advocacy. For additional information related to options and expectations for students, please seek out the department
chair of the department in which you are considering a blended course or your guidance counselor.
GIFTED EDUCATION
Gifted education services are provided through specially designed instruction individually tailored to accelerate and/or to
enrich a student’s regular education courses. A Gifted Individualized Educational Plan (GIEP) is developed for students for
whom gifted services are appropriate.
SPECIAL EDUCATION
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A student qualifies for special education when it is determined, through evaluation, that there is an educational disability
that “adversely affects educational performance” and requires special education services.
All decisions regarding a student’s Free Appropriate Public Education (FAPE) and Individualized Education Program (IEP) are
to be made by the student’s IEP team, which includes the student’s parent(s)/caregiver(s) and, as appropriate, the student.
Emphasis is on keeping the student in the Least Restrictive Environment (LRE) and supporting the student in the District’s
general education curriculum. The types and amounts of special education and related services, service delivery models,
settings in which the services are delivered, curriculum modifications, accommodations, and all other educational decisions
related to the student’s disability are to be made by the IEP Team.
CAREER AND TECHNICAL EDUCATION
AGHS partners with Chester County Technical College High School (TCHS) at Pennock’s Bridge in Jennersville to provide a
rigorous Career and Technical Education (CTE). TCHS offers students a chance to acquire the knowledge and skills necessary
to enter the workforce immediately upon graduation or as preparation for postsecondary vocational or technical training.
Today more than ever, students are realizing they must learn a vocation and have a marketable skill to earn a living.
Increased automation and modern technology are creating a need for a different kind of employment – one involving
greater and more specialized skills.
The goal of a CTE program is to meet both the student’s educational and vocational needs. In order to meet that goal,
CTE schools constantly strive to
● Prepare students with the skills and knowledge necessary for employment
● Offer a curriculum with the flexibility necessary to keep pace with changing work standards and needs
● Promote understanding of the important relationship between employers and employee
● Help develop the self-discipline necessary to work efficiently and in cooperation with others
● Encourage the development of desirable attitudes and work habits, necessary in today’s world of work
TCHS courses are individually designed using a competency-based curriculum reflecting the student’s particular skill level.
This allows students to proceed at their own rates, concentrating on areas they need to strengthen. The shop experience at
TCHS is coordinated with AGHS to allow half-day attendance at each school. Transportation is provided between the two
sites. The courses are designed to help students prepare for their career of choice. The competency-based programs allow
open entry and open exit by students. Upon graduation, students will be provided a profile of competencies mastered. In
addition, each student meeting the expected standards of performance and attendance will graduate with a “warranty” of
his/her performance capabilities. If an employer is dissatisfied with the performance of a TCHS graduate, the graduate may
return for additional training at no cost to the employer or the employee.
TO APPLY: Go to TCHS Pennock's Bridge. See “Site Shortcuts” on the bottom right of the home page. Click “Apply
online!” If you have any questions on admissions criteria, how to apply, or programs offered, please contact the
Admissions Specialist, at admissions@cciu.org or 484-237-5325. Applicants must be at least 14 years of age and
entering the tenth grade or higher. Selection is based on aptitude, attitude, attendance, past achievements, readiness
for entry into the desired program, and course availability. Emphasis is given to the potential for achievement,
interest, motivation, and likelihood of success in the student’s chosen area of study. TCHS Course Offerings
DUAL ENROLLMENT
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Our Dual Enrollment Program allows high school students to obtain college credits that may be transferable to both two-
and four-year colleges. Dual enrollment makes it possible for juniors and seniors to have advanced standing when entering
college. When students participate in dual enrollment, they will enroll for both fall and spring semesters during the school
year. Students may substitute courses at AGHS by taking an approved course for Dual Enrollment credit. For instance, a
student signed up for Dual Enrollment English would receive both college credit and English credit at AGHS.
To apply, students must pass a placement exam or have a qualifying SAT/ACT score and complete an application. Once all
have been completed, a counselor from the college along with an AGHS counselor will meet with the student to review
class options and build the student’s AGHS schedule.
For this opportunity, transportation and tuition fees are the responsibility of the family. Students are encouraged to check
with their intended future college regarding their dual enrollment policies and to see if these credits will transfer.
JOB SHADOWING
The Avon Grove Job Shadowing Experience immerses students into the world of work, where they can acquire first-hand
information about job skills and careers. Students who are able to experience the workplace see realistic and tangible
career options come alive for them. Job Shadowing involves student visits to a variety of career areas of interest during
which time they can observe and ask questions of their Shadowing hosts. This structured worksite experience provides
students with a preview of the “Real” world of work and the range of career opportunities available to them. AGHS
Students will meet with their counselor to discuss interest and participation in a Job Shadowing Experience Students who
participate in a Job Shadowing experience will be excused from school (on the day (s) of the experience) but will still be
expected to make up all required assignments, quizzes, projects, and tests during this time. AGHS Job Shadowing
Experience Student benefits:
● Provides an up-close look at workplaces and careers
● Demonstrates the link between education and future career success
● Provides important information to shape future career decision-making
● Creates new networking opportunities for future career planning
● Assists in developing a Career Action Plan for Post-Secondary goals
● Introduces students to the requirements of professions and industries to help them prepare to join the workforce
of the 21st century.
16
NCAA ELIGIBILITY
Division I Academic Eligibility
To be eligible to compete in NCAA sports during your first year at a Division I school, you must graduate high school and
meet ALL the following requirements:
● Complete 16 core courses:
o Four years of English
o Three years of math (Algebra 1 or higher)
o Two years of natural/physical science (including one year of lab science if offered)
o One additional year of English, math, or natural/physical science
o Two years of social science
o Four additional years of English, math, natural/physical science, social science, foreign language,
comparative religion, or philosophy
● Complete ten core courses, including seven in English, math, or natural/physical science, before your seventh
semester. Once you begin your seventh semester, you may not repeat or replace any of those ten courses to
improve your core-course GPA.
● Earn at least a 2.3 GPA in your core courses.
● Earn an SAT combined score or ACT sum score matching your core-course GPA on the Division I sliding scale, which
balances your test score and core-course GPA. If you have a low test score, you need a higher core-course GPA to
be eligible. If you have a low core-course GPA, you need a higher test score to be eligible.
Division II Academic Eligibility
To be eligible to compete in NCAA sports during your first year at a Division II school, you must meet academic
requirements for your core courses, grade-point average (GPA), and test scores. The requirements are changing for
students who enroll full-time at a Division II school after August 1, 2018. You must graduate high school and meet ALL the
following requirements:
● Complete 16 core courses:
o Three years of English
o Two years of math (Algebra 1 or higher)
o Two years of natural or physical science (including one year of lab science if offered)
o Three additional years of English, math, or natural or physical science
o Two years of social science
o Four additional years of English, math, natural or physical science, social science, foreign language,
comparative religion, or philosophy
● Earn at least a 2.2 GPA in your core courses.
● Earn an SAT combined score or ACT sum score matching your core-course GPA on the Division II sliding scale,
which balances your test score and core-course GPA. If you have a low test score, you need a higher core-course
GPA to be eligible. If you have a low core-course GPA, you need a higher test score to be eligible
Division III Academic Eligibility
Division III schools provide an integrated environment focusing on academic success while offering a competitive athletics
environment. Division III rules minimize potential conflicts between athletics and academics and focus on regional in-season
and conference play.
While Division III schools do not offer athletics scholarships, 75 percent of Division III student-athletes receive some form of
merit or need-based financial aid. If you are planning to attend a Division III school, you do not need to register with the
NCAA Eligibility Center. Division III schools set their own admissions standards.
17
COURSE OVERVIEW LISTING
shaded courses not offered during the upcoming school year but will be offered the following year
Course Name
Number
Elective or
Graduation
Requirement
Weighted
1.0 or .5
quality
points
When
Course
is
offered
NCAA
Approved
Blended
Course
Option
9
10
11
12
Allied Health Hon
210008H
Elective
0.5
Year
x
ART-Adobe Illustrator
210925
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Advanced Ceramics: Wheel
Throwing
210934
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Animation
210923
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ART-AP Art History
210950
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
ART-Arts, Music & Culture
210940
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Ceramics I
210930
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Ceramics II
210933
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Digital Photography
210911
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ART-Drawing I
210901
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ART-Drawing II
210902
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ART-Graphic Design I
210921
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Graphic Design II
210922
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Intro to Studio Arts
210900
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Jewelry & Metalsmithing I
210931
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ART-Jewelry & Metalsmithing II
210935
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ART-Mixed Media
210924
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Painting I
210903
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ART-Painting II
210904
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ART-Portfolio Preparation
210960
Elective
Sem.
x
x
18
ART-Printmaking
210905
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-3D Art
210920
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ART-Visual Storytelling, Cartooning &
Storyboard
210926
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
Course Name
Number
Elective or
Graduation
Requirement
Weighted
1.0 or .5
quality
points
When
Course
is
offered
NCAA
Approved
Blended
Course
Option
9
10
11
12
ART-Wearable Art
210932
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
BUS-Accounting I
210737
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
BUS-Accounting II
210738
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
BUS-AP Computer Science A
210715
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
BUS-AP Computer Science Principles
210714
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
x
BUS-Intro to Business
210720
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
BUS-Intro to Computer Science
210700
Elective
Sem.
B
x
x
x
x
BUS-Marketing
210726
Elective
Sem.
B
x
x
x
x
BUS-Microsoft Office I
210710
Elective
Sem
x
x
x
x
BUS-Microsoft Office II
210711
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
BUS-Personal Finance
210725
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
BUS-Programming Languages I
210716
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
BUS-Programming Languages II
210717
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ENG-AP English Lang & Composition
210150
Grad. Req.
1.0
Year
x
x
x
ENG-AP English Lit & Composition
210151
Grad. Req.
1.0
Year
x
x
ENG-AP Research
210154
Both
1.0
Year
x
x
x
ENG-AP Seminar
210153
Both
1.0
Year
x
x
x
x
ENG-Art of Persuasion
210138
Both
Sem.
x
x
x
ENG-CP English 9
210111
Grad. Req.
Year
x
B
x
ENG-CP English 10
210121
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
19
ENG-CP English 11
210131
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
ENG-CP English 12
210141
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
ENG-College Writing
210137
Both
Sem.
x
B
x
x
ENG-Creative Writing & Poetry
210162
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
ENG-English 9
210102
Grad. Req.
Year
x
Course Name
Number
Elective or
Graduation
Requirement
Weighted
1.0 or .5
quality
points
When
Course
is
offered
NCAA
Approved
Blended
Course
Option
9
10
11
12
ENG-English 10
210172
Grad. Req.
Year
x
ENG-English 11
210182
Grad. Req.
Year
x
ENG-English 12
210192
Grad. Req.
Year
x
ENG-Film as Literature
210136
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ENG-HON English 9
210110
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
ENG-HON English 10
210120
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
ENG-HON English 11
210130
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
ENG-HON English 12
210140
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
ENG-Journalism I
210160
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
x
ENG-Journalism II
210161
Elective
Year
x
x
x
ENG-Journalism II.5
210166
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
ENG-Journalism III
210164
Elective
Year
x
x
Advanced English
213081
213082
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
x
Beginning English
213041
213042
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
x
Intermediate English
213061
213062
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
x
Intro to English
213021
213022
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
x
20
Intro to English Extended
213031
213032
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
Life of the American Student
213011
213012
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
Reading & Writing
213002
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
FCS-Baking
211020
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
FCS-Child Development
211004
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
FCS-Everyday Foods
211021
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
FCS-Food & Cultures
211023
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
Course Name
Number
Elective or
Graduation
Requirement
Weighted
1.0 or .5
quality
points
When
Course
is
offered
NCAA
Approved
Blended
Course
Option
9
10
11
12
FCS-Housing & Design
211005
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
FCS-Life & Independence
211001
Elective
Sem.
x
x
FCS-Life & School
211000
Elective
Sem.
x
x
FCS-Sports Nutrition & Wellness
211022
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
FCS-Textile & Clothing I
211006
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
FCS-Textile & Clothing II
211007
211008
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
Homeland Security & Protective
Services
219020
Elective
Year
x
x
x
MATH-Algebra I
210200
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
x
MATH-Algebra II
210232
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
x
MATH-AP Calculus AB
210250
Grad. Req.
1.0
Year
x
x
x
MATH-AP Calculus BC
210252
Grad. Req.
1.0
Year
x
x
MATH-AP Precalculus
210253
Grad. Req.
1.0
Year
x
x
x
x
x
MATH-AP Statistics
210251
Grad. Req.
1.0
Year
x
x
x
MATH-Applications & Concepts
210262
Grad. Req.
Year
x
MATH-CP Algebra I
210211
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
x
21
MATH-CP Algebra II
210231
Grad. Req.
Year
x
B
x
x
MATH-CP Calculus
210261
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
x
MATH-CP Geometry
210221
Grad. Req.
Year
x
B
x
x
MATH-CP Statistics
210260
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
MATH-CP Trigonometry/ Precalculus
210241
Grad. Req.
Year
x
B
x
x
MATH-Geometry
210222
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
x
MATH-HON Algebra II
210230
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
x
x
MATH-HON Geometry
210220
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
x
MATH-HON Trigonometry/
Precalculus
210240
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
x
x
Course Name
Number
Elective or
Graduation
Requirement
Weighted
1.0 or .5
quality
points
When
Course
is
offered
NCAA
Approved
Blended
Course
Option
9
10
11
12
MATH-Sheltered Math I
210214
210215
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
x
MATH-Sheltered Math II
210216
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
x
MATH-Trigonometry/Precalculus
210242
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
ART-Arts, Music & Culture
210940
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
MUS-AP Music Theory
212033
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
x
MUS-Avon Grove Chorale
212021
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
MUS-Bel Canto
212022
Elective
Year
x
x
MUS-Concert Band
212000
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
MUS-Concert Choir
212020
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
MUS-Guitar
212063
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
MUS-Music Theory I
212031
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
MUS-Piano Fundamentals
212030
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
MUS-String Orchestra
212040
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
22
MUS-Wind Ensemble
212001
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
PE-Adapted Physical Education
210662
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
x
PE-Advanced Physical Education
210633
Both
Sem.
x
x
PE-Health Education
210625
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
PE-Physical Education 1
210612
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
PE-Physical Education 2
210622
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
PE-Physical Education 3
210632
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
PE-Physical Education 4
210642
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
SCI-AP Biology
210350
Both
1.0
Year
x
x
x
SCI-AP Chemistry
210351
Both
1.0
Year
x
x
x
SCI-AP Environmental Science
210355
Both
1.0
Year
x
x
x
SCI-AP Physics 1 & 2
210352
Both
1.0
Year
x
x
x
Course Name
Number
Elective or
Graduation
Requirement
Weighted
1.0 or .5
quality
points
When
Course
is
offered
NCAA
Approved
Blended
Course
Option
9
10
11
12
SCI-AP Physics C
210353
Both
1.0
Year
x
x
SCI-Applied Physics
210342
Both
Year
x
x
SCI-Biology
210323
Grad. Req.
Year
x
SCI-Chemistry
210332
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
x
SCI-CP Anatomy & Physiology
210361
Both
Year
x
x
x
SCI-CP Biology
210321
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
x
SCI-CP Chemistry
210331
Grad. Req.
Year
x
B
x
x
x
SCI-CP Current Science & Technology
210362
Both
Year
x
x
SCI-CP Integrated Science
210311
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
SCI-CP Organic Chemistry
210360
Both
Year
x
x
x
SCI-CP Physics
210341
Both
Year
x
x
x
23
SCI-Earth & Space Science
210363
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
x
SCI-HON Biology
210320
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
x
SCI-HON Chemistry
210330
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
x
SCI-HON Physics
210340
Both
0.5
Year
x
x
x
SCI-Integrated Science
210312
Grad. Req.
Year
x
SCI-Sheltered Science I
210313
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
x
SCI-Sheltered Science II
210314
Grad. Req.
Sem.
x
x
x
x
Society Skills
214446
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
SS-20th Century US Military History
210471
Elective
Sem..
x
x
x
x
x
SS-American History Through Film
210470
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
SS-AP Comparative Government &
Politics
210467
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
x
x
x
SS-AP Economics
210455
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
x
x
x
SS-AP European History
210450
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
x
x
x
SS-AP Human Geography
210456
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
x
x
x
Course Name
Number
Elective or
Graduation
Requirement
Weighted
1.0 or .5
quality
points
When
Course
is
offered
NCAA
Approved
Blended
Course
Option
9
10
11
12
SS-AP Psychology
210454
Elective
1.0
Year
x
B
x
x
x
x
SS-AP US Government & Politics
210433
Grad. Req.
1.0
Year
x
x
SS-AP US History
210452
Grad. Req.
1.0
Year
x
x
x
x
SS-AP World History
210451
Grad. Req.
1.0
Year
x
x
SS-CP Government/Economics
210431
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
SS-CP Street Law
210462
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
x
SS-CP US History
210411
Grad. Req.
Year
x
B
x
SS-CP World History
210421
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
SS-Government/Economics
210432
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
24
SS-Greek & Roman History
210472
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
x
SS-Holocaust & Genocide Studies
210473
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
x
SS-HON Government/Economics
210430
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
SS-HON US History
210410
Grade Req.
0.5
Year
x
B
x
SS-HON World History
210420
Grad. Req.
0.5
Year
x
x
SS-Psychology
210461
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
x
SS-Sheltered US History
210414
210415
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
x
x
SS-Sociology
210474
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
SS-US History
210412
Grad. Req.
Year
x
x
SS-World History
210422
Grad. Req.
Year
x
TCHS-PM 2.0
219006
Elective
Year
x
x
x
TCHS-PM 2.5
219007
Elective
Year
x
x
x
TCHS-PM 3.0
219008
Elective
Year
x
x
TCHS-PM 3.5
219009
Elective
Year
x
x
TCHS-PM 4.0
219010
Elective
Year
x
Teacher Leadership Academy
210009
Elective
Year
x
Course Name
Number
Elective or
Graduation
Requirement
Weighted
1.0 or .5
quality
points
When
Course
is
offered
NCAA
Approved
Blended
Course
Option
9
10
11
12
TECH-Advanced Materials &
Composites
210825
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
TECH-Agriculture I
210808
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Agriculture II
210809
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
TECH-Architectural CAD
210802
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
TECH-Audio/Video Engineering
210804
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Audio/Video Production I
210803
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
25
TECH-Audio/Video Production II
210805
Elective
Sem.
B
x
x
x
x
TECH-Aviation Principles & FAA 107
Drone Cert
210844
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Computer Engineering
210840
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Computer Game Design I
210842
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Computer Game Design II
210843
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Engineering CAD
210801
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
TECH-Home Planning & Maintenance
210824
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
TECH-Intro to CAD
210800
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Metal Technology I
210830
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Metal Technology II
210831
210832
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
TECH-Production Technology
210823
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
TECH-Robotics Engineering
210841
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Woodworking I
210820
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
x
TECH-Woodworking II
210821
210822
Elective
Sem.
x
x
x
WLAN-AP French Language
210551
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
WLAN-AP Spanish Language
210550
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
x
WLAN-AP Spanish Literature &
Culture
210552
Elective
1.0
Year
x
x
x
x
Course Name
Number
Elective or
Graduation
Requirement
Weighted
1.0 or .5
quality
points
When
Course
is
offered
NCAA
Approved
Blended
Course
Option
9
10
11
12
WLAN-French I
210521
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
x
WLAN-French II
210522
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
x
WLAN-French III
210523
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
WLAN-German I
210531
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
x
WLAN-German II
210532
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
26
WLAN-German III
210533
Elective
Year
x
x
x
WLAN-HON Accelerated German II &
III
210536
Elective
0.5
Year
x
x
x
WLAN-HON Accelerated Italian I & II
210546
Elective
0.5
Year
x
x
x
x
WLAN-HON French IV
210525
Elective
0.5
Year
x
x
x
WLAN-HON German IV
210535
Elective
0.5
Year
x
B
x
x
WLAN-HON Italian IV
210545
Elective
0.5
Year
x
x
WLAN-HON Spanish IV
210515
Elective
0.5
Year
x
x
x
WLAN-Italian I
210541
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
x
WLAN-Italian II
210542
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
WLAN-Italian III
210543
Elective
Year
x
x
x
WLAN-Spanish I
210511
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
x
WLAN-Spanish II
210512
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
x
WLAN-Spanish III
210513
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
WLAN-Spanish for Native Speakers I
210561
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
x
WLAN-Spanish for Native Speakers II
210562
Elective
Year
x
x
x
x
27
ENGLISH COURSE PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of English courses.
Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
English
Grade
Progression 1
Progression 2
Progression 3
Elective Courses
9th
English 9
CP English 9
Honors English 9
Journalism I (semester)
10th
English 10
CP English 10
Honors English 10
AP Seminar
2
Film as Literature (semester)
Journalism I (semester)
Journalism II (full year or semester)
11th
English 11
CP English 11
Art of Persuasion
1
&
College Writing
1
AP Language and
Composition
AP Research
AP Seminar
Honors English 11
Creative Writing & Poetry (semester)
Film as Literature (semester)
Journalism I (semester)
Journalism II (full year or semester)
Journalism III (full year)
12th
English 12
CP English 12
Art of Persuasion
1
&
College Writing
1
AP Literature &
Composition
AP Research
AP Seminar
Honors English 12
Four English credits are required for graduation.
1
Art of Persuasion and College Writing must both be taken to count for a required English credit.
While electives do not satisfy English graduation requirements, they do enhance college and career readiness skills.
28
ENGLISH
All English classes emphasize critical thinking skills through experiences in reading, writing, speaking, and listening.
Strategies in contextual analysis, grammar study, vocabulary, composition, and research are integral to the preparation of
students for the working world; therefore, English classes intensify in depth and breadth as the students move through the
four grades. The Pennsylvania Core standards provide the foundation for each course.
210102 ENGLISH 9
Year 1.0 credit 9
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Students taking this course will enjoy reading, analyzing, and writing about fiction, nonfiction, and literary nonfiction in a
learning environment tailored to their individual needs. Students can expect lessons that are scaffolded and one-on-one
interactions with their teacher/s. Vocabulary strategies and word study skills are taught in conjunction with new words
using the Sadlier Workshop. Students will improve grammar usage while refining written expression in the following modes:
literary analysis (constructed responses), narrative, informational, and argumentative. The writing process is explicitly
taught and followed with a focus on conferencing for feedback, editing, and revising throughout. Students will be exposed
to the process of research - discerning the credibility of sources and incorporating research and citations into their writing.
Engagement in guided and independent reading as well as frequent academic discussions is expected. The themes of study
include coming of age and empathy.
210110 *HONORS ENGLISH 9
Year 1.0 credit 9
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Prerequisite: Students entering this course must have successfully completed 8th-grade English with an A and have a
positive recommendation from their 8th-grade teacher. Each student in the course should exhibit a curious, inquisitive mind
and be a diligent, consistent worker. Additionally, students are expected to demonstrate above-average self-motivation,
organizational skills, and academic maturity.
Students taking this course will enjoy reading, analyzing, and writing about fiction, nonfiction, and literary nonfiction at a
more rigorous and deepened level, requiring additional readings outside of the classroom. Students will expand their
vocabularies through extensive readings and the Sadlier Workshop. Students will improve their style and voice in the
following modes: literary analysis (constructed responses), narrative, informational, and argumentative. Within the writing
process, students will use their own expertise to provide peer-to-peer conferencing for feedback. Research will be used to
synthesize found knowledge with original ideas in writing and presentation. Student-facilitated book club discussions and
Socratic Seminars are routine. Innate time management skills and a passion for literature are paramount. The themes of
study include coming of age and empathy. Students complete content-related summer reading and writing to prepare for
the course.
210111 COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH 9
210111B COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH 9 (Blended Option)
Year 1.0 credit 9
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Students taking this course will enjoy reading, analyzing, and writing about fiction, nonfiction, and literary nonfiction.
Vocabulary acquisition and skills will increase using the Sadlier Workshop. Students will improve grammar usage while
refining written expression in the following modes: literary analysis (constructed responses), narrative, informational, and
argumentative. The writing process is followed, with a focus on conferencing for feedback, peer-editing, and revising
throughout. Students will use a variety of resources for research and learn to logically incorporate research into their
writing. Students are expected to regularly complete independent reading and participate in frequent class discussions in a
29
variety of formats. 21st-century presentation skills will be modeled and practiced. The themes of study include coming of
age and empathy.
210120 *HONORS ENGLISH 10
Year 1.0 credit 10
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Prerequisite: Students entering this course must have successfully completed Honors English 9 with an average grade of 85%
or higher or successfully completed College Prep English 9 with an average grade of 94% or higher, and a recommendation
from the student’s current English teacher. CDT performance will also be considered.
Students will analyze, evaluate, and respond to a variety of literature including short stories, seminal U.S. documents,
drama, and novels at a more rigorous pace and deepened level. Students will analyze the author’s craft in addition to
deriving meaning from the text (rhetorical appeals and figurative language, author’s tone and purpose, and text structure).
Students will expand their vocabularies through extensive readings and the Sadlier Workshop. Students will use mentor
texts and peer feedback to create expert writing pieces that demonstrate originality, cohesiveness, and style in all modes.
Students will be expected to read most works independently and come to class prepared to engage with the material.
Whole class seminars, discussion groups, and presentations are expected routines. A passion for reading and writing is a
must. Themes of overcoming obstacles and making difficult choices are explored. Students will take the Literature Keystone
Exam at the conclusion of this course. Students complete content-related summer reading and writing to prepare for the
course.
210121 COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH 10
Year 1.0 credit 10
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Students will analyze and respond to a variety of literature including short stories, seminal U.S. documents, drama, and
novels. Students will analyze the author’s craft in addition to deriving meaning from the text. (rhetorical appeals and
figurative language, author’s tone and purpose, and text structure). Vocabulary acquisition and skills will increase using the
Sadlier Workshop. Through a variety of written expressions, such as literary analysis (constructed responses), narrative, and
argumentative (with research), students will workshop to improve in the areas of voice, seamless textual evidence
integration, and style. Students are expected to initiate and facilitate collaboration with their peers on a variety of projects
and discussions. 21st-century presentation skills will be practiced and refined. Themes of overcoming obstacles and difficult
choices are explored. Students will take the Literature Keystone Exam at the conclusion of this course.
210130 *HONORS ENGLISH 11
Year 1.0 credit 11
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Prerequisite: Students entering this course must have successfully completed Honors English 10 with an average grade of
85% or higher or successfully completed College Prep English 10 with an average grade of 94% or higher, and a
recommendation from the student’s current English teacher. CDT performance and AP Potential will also be considered.
Students will analyze and respond to the diverse content of American authors in a variety of genres (short stories, plays,
poetry, novels, and memoirs) at a more rigorous pace and deepened level. Students will study SAT vocabulary and evaluate
the diction of others to enhance their own communication skills. Students will use mentor texts and peer feedback to
create expert writing pieces that demonstrate originality, cohesiveness, and style in a variety of modes. Students are
expected to regularly engage in self-initiated and frequent class participation. Outside preparation for seminars is a routine
expectation. Innate creative expression and a passion for literature is a must. Students will receive guidance in preparing for
post-secondary life (career research and application/personal statement/resume/college essay writing). Overarching
themes are the human experience and the American Dream. Students complete content-related summer reading and
writing to prepare for the course.
210131 COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH 11
Year 1.0 credit 11
30
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Students will analyze and respond to the diverse content of American authors in a variety of genres (short stories, plays,
poetry, novels, and memoirs). Students will study SAT vocabulary and analyze the diction of others to enhance their own
communication skills. Writing conventions, organization, style, and focus will be practiced in multi-paragraph pieces that
include narrative, informational, and argumentative styles. In the Writer’s Workshop, students can move through the
writing process and seek teacher/peer feedback throughout. Students are expected to prepare for and facilitate
collaboration with their peers on a variety of projects and discussions. 21st-century presentation skills will be practiced and
refined. Students will receive guidance in preparing for post-secondary life (career research and application/personal
statement/resume/college essay writing). Overarching themes are the human experience and the American Dream.
210137 COLLEGE WRITING
210137B COLLEGE WRITING (Blended Option)
Semester 0.5 credit 11, 12
This course must be taken with The Art of Persuasion if taken for required graduation credit in place of any English 11 or
English 12 course.
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
This composition course is designed to help students learn to write very pragmatic essays. Students will learn different
styles of writing for different areas of study and life. Students will start with a personal essay designed to help with the
college application process and move in various modes of writing including the following: informative research-based,
argumentative, and APA research. Students should be prepared to write every day and produce a portfolio of essays.
Reading will be used as a model for the various styles. We will refine skills in writing stamina, organization, style, and
conventions as needed.
210138 THE ART OF PERSUASION
Semester 0.5 credit 11, 12
This course must be taken with College Writing if taken for required graduation credit in place of any English 11 or English
12 course.
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
The goal of this course is to help students develop and strengthen their existing (or newly forming) persuasive presentation
skills. The course gives students the opportunity to study and gain a working knowledge of the theory and psychology
involved in both verbal and nonverbal communication. At the heart of the course is speaking, writing, and listening to
persuasive mentor texts. Students will speak often so they can practice and refine their delivery style and develop more
confidence in presenting and persuading before others. This practice is accomplished through a variety of in-class exercises
through more formal assigned speeches. The course will help students improve their mechanics (articulation, vocal tone
and volume, delivery style) and also work on techniques to help reduce nervousness/stage fright. Students will gain
experience in writing and delivering several different types of persuasive speeches, including debates, talking like TED, and
closing arguments.
210140 *HONORS ENGLISH 12
Year 1.0 credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Prerequisite: Students entering this course must have successfully completed Honors English 11 with an average grade of
85% or higher or successfully completed College Prep English 11 with an average grade of 94% or higher, and a
recommendation from the student’s current English teacher. CDT performance and AP Potential will also be considered.
In this course, students will engage in reading, writing, speaking, and listening at a collegiate level and pace. Core readings
(British and World literature, drama, poetry, and nonfiction) showcase the evolution of storytelling and its insights into the
31
human experience. Extended readings outside of the classroom are vital to a classroom culture of academic discussion and
engagement that is student-led and assessed daily. Students will be expected to articulate complex ideas with clarity
(thoughtful diction, appropriate tone, and voice) in all modes of communication. Innate creative expression and a passion
for literature is a must. Tips for finalizing post-secondary writing pieces will be explored and workshopped before
application deadlines. An overarching theme is understanding the world through the rich connection between a culture and
its stories. Students complete content-related summer reading and writing to prepare for the course.
210141 COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH 12
Year 1.0 credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
The goal of this course is to prepare students for collegiate-level reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Core readings
(British and World literature, drama, poetry, and nonfiction) showcase the evolution of storytelling and its insights into the
human experience. Through independent reading, students will enhance their vocabulary and skills in analytical writing.
Responding to any inquiry with proper focus, organization, and style will be refined for all audiences and modes. Students
will, through research and close literary analysis, explore ideas and formulate assertions that will be presented to others.
Students will participate in student-led class discussions, which will be assessed often. Tips for finalizing post-secondary
writing pieces will be explored and workshopped before application deadlines. An overarching theme is understanding the
world through the rich connection between a culture and its stories.
210150 *AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Rising to the Challenge, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Prerequisite: Students entering this course must have successfully completed Honors English 10 with an average grade of
85% or higher or successfully completed College Prep English 10 with an average grade of 94% or higher. Acceptance into
this course is based on a recommendation from the student’s current English teacher, CDT performance, and AP Potential.
AP English Language and Composition is an introductory college-level composition course. Students cultivate their
understanding of writing and rhetorical arguments through reading, analyzing, and writing texts as they explore topics like
rhetorical situations, claims and evidence, reasoning and organization, and style. Students study the craft of authors -
exploring the four rhetorical modes of discourse, analyzing professional writing models, and producing essays informed by
these models. Students practice stylistic techniques that are the result of careful syntactical choices and precise diction. AP
Language and Composition is a writing-heavy course, and students will learn to write quality essays very quickly. Students
in this course will develop the skills necessary to critically analyze the world around them. Reading and writing objectives
for this course are aligned with The College Board’s AP Lang & Composition Skills. Students complete content-related
summer reading and writing to prepare for the course and are expected to take the AP Examination at the conclusion.
210151 *AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION
Year 1.0 credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisite: Students entering this course must have successfully completed AP English Language and Composition with an
average grade of 84% or higher or successfully completed Honors English 11 with an average grade of 95% or higher.
Acceptance into this course will be based on a recommendation from the student’s current English teacher, CDT
performance, and College Board AP Potential. (Students in College Prep English 11 can be considered on a case-by-case
basis.)
AP English Literature and Composition provides an intensive and rigorous study of works of literary merit across various
genres and time periods. Through this course, students will learn the skills of literary analysis and critical writing, extending
their awareness and appreciation of language and structure. Socratic seminars, analytical writing, deep reading, and
student-led presentations are at the core of the course. Students gain a working knowledge of literary terminology,
scholarly criticism, advanced vocabulary, and mature writing skills. The course is open to students who are willing to engage
in the scholarship, reading, conversing, and writing the class entails. Reading and writing objectives for this course are
32
aligned with The College Board’s AP Lit & Composition Skills. Students complete content-related summer reading and
writing to prepare for the course and are expected to take the AP Examination at the conclusion.
210153 AP SEMINAR
Year 1.0 Credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
This course is designed to help students develop and practice skills in research, collaboration, and communication; skills
that are necessary for any academic discipline. Students will investigate topics in a variety of subject areas, write research-
based essays, and design and give presentations both individually and as a team. This course will also highlight reading and
analyzing articles, studies, and other texts, gathering and combining information from sources, viewing an issue from
multiple perspectives, and crafting arguments based on evidence.
210154 AP RESEARCH
Year 1.0 Credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisite: Students entering this course must successfully complete AP Seminar.
AP Research, the second course in the AP Capstone experience, allows students to deeply explore an academic topic,
problem, issue, or idea of individual interest. Students design, plan, and implement a yearlong investigation to address a
research question. Through this inquiry, they further the skills they acquired in the AP Seminar course by learning research
methodology, employing ethical research practices, and accessing, analyzing, and synthesizing information. Students reflect
on their skill development, document their processes, and curate the artifacts of their scholarly work through a process and
reflection portfolio. The course culminates in an academic paper of 4,000–5,000 words (accompanied by a performance,
exhibit, or product where applicable) and a presentation with an oral defense.
210172 ENGLISH 10
Year 1.0 credit 10
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Students will analyze and respond to a variety of literature including short stories, seminal U.S. documents, drama, and
novels in a learning environment tailored to their individual needs. Students can expect lessons that are scaffolded and one-
on-one interactions with their teacher/s. Students will analyze the author’s craft in addition to deriving meaning from the
text (rhetorical appeals and figurative language, author’s tone, purpose, word choice, and text structure). Vocabulary
strategies and word study skills are taught in conjunction with new words using the Sadlier Workshop. Writing conventions,
organization, and expression will be practiced in the following modes: constructed response, narrative, and argumentative
with research. The writing process is explicitly taught and followed with a focus on conferencing for feedback, editing, and
revising throughout. Students are expected to collaborate well with their peers on a variety of projects and discussions.
Themes of overcoming obstacles and difficult choices are explored. Students will take the Literature Keystone Exam at the
conclusion of this course.
210182 ENGLISH 11
Year 1.0 credit 11
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
Students will analyze and respond to the diverse content of American authors in a variety of genres (short stories, plays,
poetry, novels, and memoirs) in a learning environment tailored to their individual needs. Students will study SAT
vocabulary and analyze the diction of others to enhance their own communication skills. Students can expect lessons that
are scaffolded and one-on-one interactions with their teacher/s. Conventions, organization, and expression will be
practiced in multi-paragraph pieces that include narrative, informational, and argumentative styles. The writing process is
explicitly taught and followed with a focus on conferencing for feedback, editing, and revising throughout. Students are
expected to collaborate well with their peers on a variety of projects and discussions. Students will receive guidance in
33
preparing for post-secondary life (career research, application/personal statement/resume/college essay writing).
Overarching themes are the human experience and the American Dream.
210192 ENGLISH 12
Year 1.0 credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Resilience
The goal of this course is to prepare students for “real world” reading, writing, speaking, and listening in a learning
environment tailored to their needs. Students can expect lessons that are scaffolded and one-on-one interactions with their
teacher/s. Core readings (British and World literature, drama, poetry, and nonfiction) showcase the evolution of storytelling
and its insights into the human experience. Through independent and guided reading, students will acquire new vocabulary
and skills in analytical writing. Responding to any inquiry with proper focus, organization, and style will be refined for all
audiences and modes. Working well with peers is integral and will help students prepare for post-secondary life. Tips for
finalizing post-secondary writing pieces will be explored and workshopped before application deadlines. An overarching
theme is understanding the world through the rich connection between a culture and its stories.
English Electives
210136 FILM AS LITERATURE
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
Prerequisite: Successful completion of 9
th
grade English
Students will analyze movies for rhetorical devices, consider dramatic and cinematic aspects of the film, and acquire the
language of screenwriters, directors, and producers. They will use these skills to write through an analytical cinematic lens.
The design for this class provides students opportunities to discuss and analyze the finer points of the filmmakers’ decisions
and “read” movies as they would read literature and informational text, analyzing the film’s creation and
interpreting/evaluating its message.
210160 JOURNALISM I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Teamwork Skills, Calm Under Pressure
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Collaboration, Resilience
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
Prerequisite: English grade of B or better and recommendation of a current English teacher.
This is a writing-intensive course, and students should have a strong command of the English language.
Journalism I provides students with an overview of print and broadcast journalism. Students learn to write different types
of news stories and investigate the definition of news according to different types of media. Aspiring journalists learn the
importance of journalists in society and their impact on a nation’s democracy and understand journalism law and ethics.
Students culminate their experience by creating the front page of a newspaper using professional layout software. Overall,
students who take Journalism I learn about the fields of print and broadcast journalism and will have the knowledge
necessary to apply their understanding in Journalism II.
210161 JOURNALISM II
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
210166 JOURNALISM II.5
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Teamwork Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
34
Prerequisite: Journalism I – Overall average of B or better in Journalism I and recommendation of current English teacher.
Journalism II provides students with opportunities to apply their understanding of Journalism I as they write for the student
newspaper and gain experience in broadcast journalism. Students work together as a team to produce the student
newspaper each month. Aspiring journalists gain experience in magazine and newspaper layout, and radio broadcasting.
Journalism II also teaches students how to write different types of television news stories. Overall, students who take
Journalism II experience what it is like to be a print and broadcast journalist.
210162 CREATIVE WRITING AND POETRY
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Initiative, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
Prerequisite: A good command of written English and recommendation of the current English teacher.
Students will explore their inspirations and express themselves in this course designed for students who enjoy reading and
writing both short fiction and poetry. Throughout the semester, students will revisit the question, “Where do stories come
from?” The creative writing aspect of the course focuses on composing works of short fiction through a variety of exercises,
prompts, free writes, and process-developed pieces that will be workshopped with peers. The poetry element is geared
toward demystifying the genre, emulating poets’ forms and styles, and compiling a poetry collection that displays a range of
poetic forms, content, and voices.
210164 JOURNALISM III
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Teamwork Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
Prerequisite: Journalism II or Journalism II.5 – Overall average of B or better and recommendation of a current English
teacher.
Journalism III provides students with an opportunity to continue their experience as student journalists. Students lead the
group of student journalists to produce the student newspaper each month. Aspiring journalists research a particular field
of journalism and identify its characteristics, employers, and legal issues. Students present their information to the class
and create a resume. Overall, students who take Journalism III lead others and research a particular field of journalism.
35
MATHEMATICS COURSE PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of Mathematics courses.
Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
Mathematics
Grade
Progression 1
Progression 2
Progression 3
Progression 4
Progression 5
9th
Algebra 1/
Math Lab
CP Algebra 1
CP Geometry
Honors Geometry
Honors Algebra 2
10th
Geometry
CP Geometry
CP Algebra 2
Honors Algebra 2
AP Precalculus
11th
Algebra 2
CP Algebra 2
CP Trig/Precalculus
AP Precalculus
AP Calculus AB
AP Statistics
12th
Trig/Precalc
Math Applications &
Concepts
CP Statistics
CP Trig/Precalculus
CP Calculus
CP Statistics
AP Calculus AB
AP Statistics
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
AP Statistics
Four Mathematics credits are required for graduation.
Students interested in accelerating their mathematics sequence may concurrently take Geometry and Algebra 2.
36
MATHEMATICS
We believe all students will be continuously challenged and engaged in mathematical thinking and practices. A minimum of
four credits in mathematics is required to graduate, three of which must be earned at the high school.
Calculator Philosophy
Calculators are used in all mathematics classes and should be supplied by the student. The math department uses Texas
Instruments TI-83+ or TI-84+ in the classroom.
210200 ALGEBRA I/MATH LAB
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Content extends students’ knowledge of math established in previous grades. Content focuses on linear functions and
algebraic properties, descriptive statistics, and explores exponential functions. This course focuses on an in-depth analysis
of core content and practices to explore advanced topics. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
210211 COLLEGE PREP ALGEBRA I
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisite: At least a C in Core 8 and teacher recommendation.
Content extends students’ knowledge of math established in previous grades. Content focuses on linear and quadratic
families of functions, descriptive statistics, and exploration of exponential functions. This course focuses on an in-depth
analysis of core content and practices to explore advanced topics. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
210214 SHELTERED MATH I
210215 SHELTERED MATH I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
The course is designed for newcomer high school students who either have limited and/or interrupted formal schooling or
will benefit from a math course to prepare them for Algebra I. In addition to learning and/or reviewing mathematical
concepts and skills, students will expand their knowledge of the English academic language of mathematics. The course
content will include a review of number systems (decimals, fractions, and integers), percents, ratios and proportions, the
order of operations, and solving one-step equations. This course will develop the student’s knowledge of course content
and focus on the acquisition of language skills necessary to continue in mathematics.
210216 SHELTERED MATH II
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
The course is designed for newcomer high school students who either have limited and/or interrupted formal schooling or
will benefit from a math course to prepare them for Algebra I. In addition to learning and/or reviewing mathematical
concepts and skills, students will expand their knowledge of the English academic language of mathematics. The course
content will include a review of number systems (decimals, fractions, and integers), percents, ratios and proportions,
probability and statistics, the order of operations, solving one- and two-step equations and inequalities, graphing, and lines.
This course will develop the student’s knowledge of course content and focus on the acquisition of language skills necessary
to continue in mathematics.
210220 *HONORS GEOMETRY
37
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Writing Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Prerequisite: At least an A in College Prep Algebra I and teacher recommendation.
Content extends students’ knowledge of similarity and congruence. Students will explore more complex geometric
concepts and relationships including, but not limited to, formal mathematical arguments, polygons, the coordinate system,
right triangle, trigonometry, circles, and probability. This course focuses on in-depth analysis and extension of core content
and practices to master advanced topics. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
210221 COLLEGE PREP GEOMETRY
210221B COLLEGE PREP GEOMETRY (Blended Option)
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Writing Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Prerequisite: At least a C in College Prep Algebra I and teacher recommendation.
Content extends students’ knowledge of similarity and congruence. Students will explore geometric concepts and
relationships including, but not limited to, formal mathematical arguments, polygons, the coordinate system, right triangle
trigonometry, circles, and probability. This course focuses on an in-depth analysis of core content and practices to explore
advanced topics. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
210222 GEOMETRY
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Prerequisite: Passing grade in Algebra I and/or Algebra II teacher recommendation.
Content extends students’ knowledge of similarity and congruence. Students will explore geometric concepts and
relationships including, but not limited to, formal mathematical arguments, polygons, the coordinate system, right
triangles, trigonometry, circles, and probability. This course focuses on an in-depth exploration of core content and
practices. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
210230 *HONORS ALGEBRA II
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Prerequisite: At least a B- in Honors Geometry or an A in College Prep Geometry and teacher recommendation.
Content extends Algebra I topics including equations, inequalities, absolute value, simplifying and factoring polynomials,
graphing and writing equations of lines and systems, rational expressions and equations, radical functions, quadratic
equations, probability, complex numbers, exponential and logarithmic functions, matrices, sequences, and series. This
course focuses on in-depth analysis and extension of core content to learn advanced topics. Calculator: Graphing or
Scientific.
210231 COLLEGE PREP ALGEBRA II
210231B COLLEGE PREP ALGEBRA II (Blended Option)
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Prerequisite: At least a C in both College Prep Geometry and College Prep Algebra I and teacher recommendation.
Content extends students’ knowledge of linear, quadratic, exponential, and absolute value functions and extends their
repertoire of functions to include polynomial, rational, radical, and logarithmic functions. This course focuses on an in-
depth analysis of core content and practices to explore advanced topics. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
210232 ALGEBRA II
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
38
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Prerequisite: A passing grade in Geometry and/or Algebra I and teacher recommendation.
Content extends students’ knowledge of linear, quadratic, exponential, and absolute value functions and extends their
repertoire of functions to include polynomial, rational, radical, and logarithmic functions. This course focuses on an in-
depth analysis of core content and practices. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
210241 COLLEGE PREP TRIGONOMETRY/PRECALCULUS
210241B COLLEGE PREP TRIGONOMETRY/PRECALCULUS (Blended Option)
Year 1.0 Credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Prerequisite: At least a C in College Prep Algebra II and teacher recommendation.
Trigonometry emphasizes the study of the unit circle, graphs, identities, and applications of triangles. Precalculus
emphasizes the study of functions and relations including linear, quadratic, absolute value, radical, polynomial, rational,
exponential, and logarithmic. Additional topics include complex numbers, infinite series and sequences, matrices, conic
sections, end behavior, and limits. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
210242 TRIGONOMETRY/PRECALCULUS
Year 1.0 Credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Prerequisite: At least a B in Algebra II and Geometry, or a passing grade in College Prep Algebra II and teacher
recommendation.
The first semester of this course is spent on trigonometric topics that include right triangle relations, the unit circle, exact
values of the trigonometric functions, graphs of trigonometric functions, proving trigonometric identities, solving
trigonometric equations, and the Law of Sine and Cosine. The second semester of the course extends Algebra II topics
including linear equations, systems of linear equations, systems of inequalities, quadratic functions, and exponential and
logarithmic functions. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
210250 *AP CALCULUS AB
Year 1.0 Credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisite: At least a B- in Honors Trigonometry/Precalculus or an A in College Prep Trigonometry/Precalculus, teacher
recommendation, and consideration of AP Potential.
Calculus AB is primarily concerned with developing students’ understanding of the concepts of calculus and providing
experience with its methods and applications. The course emphasizes a multi-representational approach to calculus with
concepts, results, and problems being expressed graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally. This course is a rigorous
and intense study of calculus requiring a minimum of five hours per week outside the class. Calculator: Graphing.
210251 *AP STATISTICS
Year 1.0 Credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisite: A passing grade in College Prep Trigonometry/Precalculus, teacher recommendation, and consideration of AP
Potential. AP Statistics may be an elective taken concurrently with Calculus.
This course will introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from
data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: 1) Exploring data – describing patterns and departures from
patterns, 2) Sampling and Experimentation – Planning and conducting a study, 3) Anticipating Patterns – Exploring random
phenomena using probability and simulation, 4) Statistical Inference – Estimating population parameters and testing
hypotheses. Calculator: Graphing.
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210252 *AP CALCULUS BC
Year 1.0 Credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisite: B or better in AP Calculus AB.
This course is for students who have already successfully completed AP Calculus AB and is designed to expose students to
the topics covered in a second-semester college-level calculus course. The course begins with a review of AP Calculus AB
topics in order to strengthen knowledge of those concepts and then moves into new topics. Content includes four main
topics: 1. Functions, Graphs, and Limits, 2. Derivatives, 3. Integrals, and 4. Polynomial Approximations and Series. The class
is geared to prepare students to take the AP exam.
210253 AP PRECALCULUS
Year 1.0 Credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisite: At least a B- in Honors Algebra II or an A in College Prep Algebra II and teacher recommendation.
Students will explore everyday situations and phenomena using mathematical tools and lenses. Students will build deep
mastery of modeling and functions, as they examine scenarios through multiple representations and learn how to observe,
explore, and build mathematical meaning from dynamic systems, an important practice for thriving in an ever-changing
world. Students will study functions including Polynomial, Rational, Exponential, Logarithmic, Trigonometric, Polar,
Parametric, Vectors, and Matrices through their graphical, numerical, verbal, and analytical representations and their
applications. Finally, this course will prepare students for the AP PreCalculus exam and AP Calculus the following year, as
well as future math courses.
210260 COLLEGE PREP STATISTICS
Year 1.0 Credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisite: At least a C in College Prep Algebra II or College Prep Trigonometry/Precalculus.
This course will introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from
data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: 1) Exploring Data – describing patterns and departures from
patterns, 2) Sampling and Experimentation – planning and conducting a study, 3) Anticipating Patterns – exploring random
phenomena using probability and simulation, 4) Statistical Inference – estimating population parameters and testing
hypotheses.
210261 COLLEGE PREP CALCULUS
Year 1.0 Credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Prerequisite: At least a C in College Prep Trigonometry/Precalculus and teacher recommendation.
This course covers differential calculus and introduces integral calculus – theory, methods, and applications. Calculator:
Graphing.
210262 MATH APPLICATIONS AND CONCEPTS
Year 1.0 Credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Teamwork Skills, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Resilience
Prerequisite: A passing grade in Algebra II and teacher recommendation.
This course comprises a variety of disciplines: discrete math, algebra, consumer math, geometry, probability, and statistics.
The course also includes set theory, number theory, financial management, a history of mathematics, and statistical
measures. Calculator: Graphing or Scientific.
40
SCIENCE COURSE PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of Science courses.
Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
Science
Grade
Progression 1
Progression 2
Progression 3
Progression 4
9th
Integrated Science
CP Integrated Science
CP Biology
Honors Biology
10th
Biology
CP Biology
CP Chemistry
Honors Chemistry
11th
Chemistry
Earth & Space
CP Chemistry
AP Biology
AP Environmental
CP Anatomy & Physiology
CP Organic Chemistry
CP Physics
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Environmental
Honors Physics
CP Anatomy & Physiology
CP Organic Chemistry
12th
Chemistry
Earth & Space
CP Current Science &
Technology
AP Biology
AP Environmental
CP Anatomy & Physiology
CP Organic Chemistry
CP Physics
Applied Physics
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
AP Environmental
AP Physics 1 & 2
1
AP Physics C
1
Honors Physics
CP Anatomy & Physiology
CP Organic Chemistry
Three Science credits are required for graduation.
Students interested in accelerating their science sequence may concurrently take Chemistry and Physics.
1
Honors Physics must be completed prior to AP Physics 1 & 2 and/or AP Physics C.
41
SCIENCE
Science is part of all our lives, no matter what occupation or endeavors one embarks upon. To be an informed citizen, one
must have an understanding of the basic principles of science. The world is becoming more and more scientifically and
technologically oriented. We would like all of our students to be able to graduate from Avon Grove with an appreciation
and understanding of the world of science.
A variety of courses are offered to meet the needs of all of our students, regardless of their backgrounds, ability levels, and
interests. The Honors and AP courses are the most rigorous; good study skills and work habits are essential to being
successful. A high level of self-motivation and a strong desire to achieve positive results by each student will enrich the
Honors and AP courses.
Traditional Academic courses are designed for students planning on college. The different levels are for different potential
career paths. The Technical Academic courses are designed to meet the needs of the student desiring a vocational/technical
program after graduation or unsure if higher education is in his future plans.
210311 COLLEGE PREP INTEGRATED SCIENCE
Year 1.0 credit 9
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Writing Skills, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
This course integrates Chemistry, Physics, Biology, and Ecology. Students will see how these topics are connected by
focusing on real-world applications of the concepts. You will become well-prepared for courses in Biology and Chemistry.
Some Algebra-I-level math skills will be introduced and used while studying these topics. Students must pass this course
before moving on to Biology.
210312 INTEGRATED SCIENCE
Year 1.0 credit 9
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Writing Skills, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Students will learn about the fundamentals of physics and chemistry, including how energy and matter are related, atomic
structure and bonding, properties of water and the importance of carbon in the formation of organic macromolecules.
Students are expected to demonstrate the ability to collaborate, problem-solve, think analytically and write scientifically in
order to prepare for success in future science courses! Integrated science students should be taking Math 1 or Algebra 1
concurrently.
210313 SHELTERED SCIENCE I
210314 SHELTERED SCIENCE II
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Writing Skills, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
This is a fundamental freshman science course designed for students with limited English proficiency (LEP). The goal of this
course is to prepare these students for Biology and Chemistry as well as to improve the performance of this subgroup on
the Keystone Exams. Topics covered include The Scientific method, Fundamentals of Chemistry and Physics, and some basic
Biology concepts. Two semesters of 0.5 credits each are required to complete the course. Semesters do not need to be
completed in a specific order.
210320 *HONORS BIOLOGY
Year 1.0 Credit 9, 10
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
42
Prerequisite: From FSEMS: Excelled in Algebra 1 or Honors Geometry. From AGHS: Minimum of A in College Prep Integrated
Science and successful completion of College Prep Algebra 1 or Honors or College Prep Geometry, and teacher
recommendation.
This course is an advanced, fast-paced biology course with a laboratory-oriented approach structured around inquiry that
requires extensive problem-solving strategies and reasoning skills. High-level skills in reading, writing, math, scientific
reasoning, and in-depth analysis of experimental data are essential. Students will be expected to do independent work both
on an individual and group level. This course includes weekly laboratory experiments. It is aligned to the PA Core standards
in Biology and includes the following concepts: biochemistry, cell physiology, genetics, ecology, and evolution and is
designed for the science/math college-bound student.
210321 COLLEGE PREP BIOLOGY
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Prerequisite: From FSEMS: Successful completion of Algebra 1 or Honors Geometry or excelled in 8
th
grade Core Math and 8
th
grade Science, and teacher recommendation. From AGHS: C minimum in College Prep Integrated Science and teacher
recommendation.
College Prep Biology introduces students to concepts, knowledge, and experimental approaches that span the breadth of
the field, including the scientific method, biochemistry, cells and cell processes, genetics, evolution, and ecology. Class
activities are based on laboratory experiences, inquiry, and analytical thinking through a variety of independent and
cooperative learning activities that enhance the overall learning experience. Students are expected to demonstrate
effective written communication skills and to integrate previous coursework in science and math as they apply knowledge
to form an understanding of the living world.
210323 BIOLOGY
Year 1.0 credit 10
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Teamwork Skills, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Biology is the study of all living things, and how their structure affects their function. In this biology course, which is
structured around inquiry for college admission, students will learn about how life works from the most microscopic to the
largest ecosystem. It is aligned with the PA Core standards in Biology and includes the following concepts: Basic Biological
Principles, Chemical Basis for Life, Bioenergetics, Homeostasis and Transport, Cell Growth and Reproduction, Genetics,
Theory of Evolution, and Ecology. Students will focus on vocabulary and the application of knowledge in these areas.
210330 *HONORS CHEMISTRY
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: B minimum in Honors Biology or A minimum in College Prep Biology, and excelled in Honors or College Prep
Geometry, and teacher recommendation. Taken concurrently with (or prior completion with a strong foundation in) Honors
or College Prep Algebra II.
Honors Chemistry is a fast-paced, advanced chemistry course, requiring the ability to do both independent and group work.
The fundamental concepts of chemistry are presented through demonstrations, laboratory experiments, classroom
discussions, lectures, and cooperative learning activities. Units include matter, the periodic table, nomenclature, chemical
reactions, stoichiometry, energy, gases, solutions, equilibrium, chemical kinetics, acids and bases, electrochemistry, and
nuclear chemistry. Students need to demonstrate high-level skills in mathematics, scientific reasoning, and reading
comprehension, along with disciplined work habits, to be successful in this math-based chemistry course. This course will
prepare students for AP Chemistry.
43
210331 COLLEGE PREP CHEMISTRY
210331B COLLEGE PREP CHEMISTRY (Blended Option)
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: Taken concurrently with (or prior completion with a strong foundation in) College Prep Algebra II.
This course is designed for the college-bound student interested in a science-related field. Units include matter, the
periodic table, nomenclature, chemical reactions, stoichiometry, energy, gases, and solutions. The fundamental concepts
are presented through lectures, demonstrations, laboratory activities, and group discussions. Students will learn to
integrate their algebra understanding and their scientific thinking in this course.
210332 CHEMISTRY
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisite: Successful completion of any Biology and Algebra 1 course.
This course emphasizes analysis and understanding of the interactions of matter. This is a physical science course requiring
algebra skills and is designed for college-bound students. The chemistry topics are presented as activities, and group
discussions, all of which involve quantitative as well as qualitative problem-solving skills. This course will challenge each
student to utilize inquiry-based learning which promotes engagement, curiosity, and hands-on experimentation.
210340 *HONORS PHYSICS
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: Taken concurrently with (or prior completion with a strong foundation in) AP Precalculus or College Prep
Trigonometry/Precalculus.
This course is designed for the highly motivated student who is interested in a career in science, engineering, or
mathematics. Independent and group learning will be stressed as students apply the basic principles of physics to problem-
solving and laboratory experiments. This course, when combined with AP Physics 1 and 2 and/or AP Physics C, will be
helpful for students to prepare for all four AP Physics Exams. Topics covered include kinematics, dynamics, energy,
momentum, waves, electricity, magnetism, and optics. A strong math background is required for this course.
210341 COLLEGE PREP PHYSICS
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: Successful completion of AP Precalculus or College Prep Algebra II and taken concurrently with (or prior
successful completion of) Honors or College Prep Trigonometry/Precalculus.
This course is designed for those students planning to major in a science-related field. It will provide students with a
foundation for college-level physics. Topics covered include kinematics, dynamics, momentum, energy, waves, light,
electricity, and magnetism. A strong math background is required for this course.
210342 APPLIED PHYSICS
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: Taken concurrently with (or prior successful completion of) College Prep Trigonometry/Precalculus.
This course is designed for students with an interest in science. It will concentrate on the concepts of physics and how to
relate them to real-world examples and applications. Topics covered in the class include kinematics, dynamics, waves,
sound, light, electricity, and magnetism.
44
210350 *AP BIOLOGY
Year 1.0 Credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: B test average or above in Honors Chemistry or an A test average in College Prep Chemistry, a B test average
in Honors Biology or College Prep Biology, consideration of AP Potential, and teacher recommendation.
This course provides students with the conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skills necessary to deal
critically with the rapidly changing science of biology. The main goals are to help students develop a conceptual framework
for modern biology, an appreciation of science as a process, and the ability to think and clearly express ideas orally and in
writing. The course focuses on molecules and cells, heredity and evolution, and organisms and populations. Over 25% of the
class is devoted to labs completed in a typical college course. There is a required summer assignment.
210351 *AP CHEMISTRY
Year 1.0 Credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Honors Chemistry and Honors or College Prep Algebra II, test average of B or better
in Honors Chemistry, consideration of AP Potential, and teacher recommendation.
In this course, students will attain a depth of understanding of fundamentals and a reasonable competence in dealing with
chemical problems. This course should contribute to the development of the student’s abilities to think and express their
ideas, orally and in writing, with clarity and logic. This course also includes a laboratory experience equivalent to that of a
typical college course. It is recommended for preparation for the AP Chemistry exam and SAT 2 subject test. There will be
an emphasis on developing independent work skills. There is a required summer assignment.
210352 *AP PHYSICS 1 AND 2
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Honors Physics and taken concurrently with (or prior successful completion of) AP
Calculus AB or College Prep Calculus, consideration of AP Potential, and teacher recommendation.
This course prepares students for the AP Physics 1 and Physics 2 Exams including the content areas of Kinematics,
Dynamics, Energy, Momentum, Torque and Rotational Motion, Fluids, Thermodynamics, Electric Force, Fields and Potential,
Electric Circuits, Magnetism and Induction, Optics, and Quantum and Nuclear Physics Understanding of physical principles
and the ability to apply these principles in the solution of problems are the major goals of the course. The course will
employ student-centered learning and guided inquiry to cultivate the development of critical thinking skills. Knowledge of
algebra and trigonometry is required for the course. There is a required summer assignment.
210353 *AP PHYSICS C
Year 1.0 credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Honors Physics with a B minimum and taken concurrently with (or prior successful
completion of) AP Calculus AB or College Prep Calculus, consideration of AP Potential, and teacher recommendation.
This is one of the most challenging courses at Avon Grove, a university-level science course based on university-level
mathematics. It prepares students for the AP Physics C: Mechanics, and AP Physics C: Electricity and Magnetism Exams
including the content areas of Kinematics, Dynamics, Work, Energy and Power, Momentum, Rotation, Electrostatics,
Electric Circuits, and Electromagnetism. The course will utilize guided inquiry and student-centered learning to foster the
development of critical thinking skills. It will use introductory differential and integral calculus throughout the course. There
is a required summer assignment.
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210355 *AP ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Honors Biology and Honors Chemistry or excelled in College Prep Biology and College
Prep Chemistry, consideration of AP Potential, and teacher recommendation.
This course prepares students for the AP Environmental Science Exam and provides a foundation for the following themes:
science is a process, energy conversions underlie all ecological processes, the Earth itself is one interconnected system,
humans alter natural systems, environmental problems have a culture and social context, and human survival depends on
developing practices that will achieve sustainable systems. In order to create an environment conducive to productive
discussions, students are expected to participate on a regular basis. There is a required summer assignment.
210360 COLLEGE PREP ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: B or better in College Prep Chemistry or C or better in Honors Chemistry.
Organic Chemistry is designed for college-bound students interested in a science-related field, especially those planning to
pursue a career in the life sciences, health, chemistry, engineering, and biotechnology. This course presents the
fundamental principles of carbon (organic) chemistry. Units include classes of organic molecules, organic nomenclature,
functional groups, and their reactions, stereochemistry, and NMR spectroscopy. Macroscale laboratory experiments are
used to develop classical and instrumental techniques as well as illustrate the principles involved.
210361 COLLEGE PREP ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Time Management, Attention to Detail, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: Juniors and seniors who have a C higher in Honors Chemistry, B- or higher in College Prep Chemistry, or B+ or
higher in Chemistry and B- or higher in Honors Biology or B or higher in College Prep Biology, and teacher recommendation.
Students may take any Chemistry course concurrently.
Anatomy and Physiology is designed for students planning to pursue careers in biological studies, medicine, and other
science-based careers. Class activities and labs provide student learning in the following topics: the major body systems;
how the body systems work together to maintain homeostasis; body functions in healthy and diseased states; muscle
action. This course builds on the material learned in Biology and focuses on the relationship between structure and function
at all levels of organization. At least 25% of the course is devoted to laboratory activities.
210362 COLLEGE PREP CURRENT SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
Year 1.0 credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Rising to the Challenge, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Resilience
Prerequisite: Seniors who have successfully completed at least three other science courses and teacher recommendation.
Have you ever wanted to know how much of what you see in sci-fi movies is actual science? This course uses movies and
outside-the-box approaches to learn why disease epidemics occur, how genetic engineering works, and what relationships
exist between genetics, the environment, and human behavior. Students will discover the psychology and brain research
behind society’s fascination with magic, ghosts, and other psychic phenomena and will investigate the current state of
artificial intelligence and robotics.
210363 EARTH AND SPACE SCIENCE
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Calm Under Pressure, Time Management, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
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Prerequisite: Juniors or seniors who have successfully completed at least two other science courses and teacher
recommendation.
Earth and Space Science is an introduction to the study of Earth’s systems with the addition of space topics. Students will
explore physical geology, including topics such as plate tectonics, volcanoes, earthquakes, and mountain building. Students
will analyze meteorology, including weather, climate, and severe weather events. Students will also explore astronomy by
studying the universe, galaxies, plus the solar system, and the Earth-Moon system. This course is for everybody, college-
bound or not.
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SOCIAL STUDIES COURSE PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of Social Studies courses.
Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
Social Studies
Grade
Progression 1
Progression 2
Progression 3
Progression 4
Elective Courses
9th
World History
1
CP
World History
1
Honors
World History
1
AP
World History
1,4
AP Electives (full year):
● AP Comparative Government &
Politics
● AP Human Geography
● AP Economics
● AP European History
● AP Psychology
● AP World History
● AP U.S. History
● AP U.S. Government & Politics
Non-AP Electives (full year):
● Psychology
Non-AP Electives (semester):
● American History through Film
● Greek and Roman History
● Holocaust & Genocide Studies
● Street Law
● Sociology
● 20th Century U.S. Military History
10th
U.S. History
2
CP
U.S. History
2
Honors
U.S. History
2
AP
U.S. History
2, 4
11th
Government/
Economics
3
CP Government/
Economics
3
Honors
Government/
Economics
3
AP U.S.
Government &
Politics
3, 4
12th
Any elective course offered in 9th-12th grade
Three Social Studies credits are required for graduation. Elective courses may be taken concurrently with required courses.
Class of 2025: World History
1
and U.S. History
2
are required courses. Class of 2026 and future classes: World History
1
, U.S. History
2
, and
Government/Economics
3
are required courses.
48
AP
4
courses taken as part of the typical grade level progression are awarded Social Studies credit and those not taken in the designated grade will count as
an elective credit.
SOCIAL STUDIES
The Social Studies department believes in providing a curriculum that gives students the opportunity to become informed
and involved citizens. To that goal, students are required to successfully complete three Social Studies credits for
graduation as follows: World History or AP World History, United States History or AP United States History, and
Government/Economics or AP US Government and Politics. Additionally, the following elective courses count as Humanities
elective credits toward graduation but do not count as substitutes for one of the required courses: Street Law, Psychology,
AP Psychology, AP Human Geography, AP Economics, AP European History, American History Through Film, 20
th
Century US
Military History, Greek and Roman History, Holocaust and Genocide Studies, and Sociology.
210410 *HONORS UNITED STATES HISTORY
210410B *HONORS UNITED STATES HISTORY (Blended Option)
Year 1.0 credit 10
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Honesty
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
This is a detailed analysis of the history of the United States from 1880 to the present, designed to increase understanding
and to make learning as stimulating as possible. The objective is the preparation of students for a college social studies
curriculum and the provision of insight into the complex problems faced by those directly involved in the building of
America’s democratic ideals. Research, writing, and independent study will be stressed. To accomplish this objective, an in-
depth search for the concepts and forces that motivated events in our nation’s past is encouraged. Carefully selected
readings supplement the text. A major research paper or series of projects is required. This course is recommended for
those students interested in the Arts/Humanities/Communications Cluster in the Traditional Academic Pathway.
210411 COLLEGE PREP UNITED STATES HISTORY
210411B COLLEGE PREP UNITED STATES HISTORY (Blended Option)
Year 1.0 credit 10
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Honesty
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
This is a survey of the history of the United States from 1880 to the present, designed to increase understanding and to
make learning as stimulating as possible. The objective is the preparation of students for a college social studies curriculum
and the provision of insight into the complex problems faced by those directly involved in the building of America’s
democratic ideals. Research, writing, and independent study will be stressed. To accomplish this objective, an in-depth
search for the concepts and forces that motivated events in our nation’s past is encouraged. Carefully selected readings
supplement the text. A major research paper or series of projects is required. This course is recommended for those
students interested in the Arts/Humanities/Communications Cluster in the Traditional Academic Pathway.
210412 UNITED STATES HISTORY
Year 1.0 credit 10
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Honesty
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
This course is a basic American history course and spends more time on the underlying currents at work in American
history. There is a particular focus on late 19th-century and 20
th
-century events. Students will concentrate on reading,
writing, and basic study skills in connection with the course material. This course is recommended for those students
interested in the Arts/Humanities/ Communications Cluster in the Traditional Academic Pathway as well as the Technical
Academic Pathway.
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210414 SHELTERED UNITED STATES HISTORY
210415 SHELTERED UNITED STATES HISTORY
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Honesty
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Communication, Service & Citizenship
This course provides instruction to ELs (English Learners), students who have arrived in the country within the last two years
and have limited background in American history. The course will develop students’ knowledge of course content and focus
on the acquisition of language skills needed for other Social Studies courses. The course content will cover the main
concepts and events in American history from the colonial period to the present, with a focus on the period since 1890.
Two semesters of 0.5 credits each are required to complete the course.
210420 *HONORS WORLD HISTORY
Year 1.0 credit 9
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Honesty
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness
This course covers world history from The Enlightenment to the present and incorporates thematic and regional
approaches, the use of multiple social studies disciplines, and the development of college-level historical skills. Research,
writing, and independent study will be stressed. Carefully select readings to supplement the text. A major research paper or
series of projects is required. This course is recommended for those students interested in the
Arts/Humanities/Communications Clusters in the Traditional Pathway.
210421 COLLEGE PREP WORLD HISTORY
Year 1.0 credit 9
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Honesty
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness
This course covers world history from the Enlightenment to the present and incorporates thematic and regional
approaches, the use of multiple social studies disciplines, and development of college-prep level historical skills.
Understanding of different historical texts and writing skills development will be stressed. This course is recommended for
those students interested in the Arts/Humanities/ Communications Cluster in the Traditional Academic Pathway as well as
those in the Technical Academic Pathway.
210422 WORLD HISTORY
Year 1.0 credit 9
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Honesty
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness
This course covers world history from the Enlightenment to the present and incorporates thematic and regional
approaches, the use of multiple social studies disciplines, and the development of historical skills. Students will concentrate
on reading, writing, and basic study skills in connection with the course material. This course is recommended for those
students interested in the Arts/Humanities/ Communications Cluster in the Traditional Academic Pathway as well as those
in the Technical Academic Pathway.
210430 HONORS GOVERNMENT/ECONOMICS
Year 1.0 credit 11
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Leadership, Service and Citizenship
Prerequisites: United States History and World History.
This course is designed as a survey of the American government and the American economic system. Designed as an Honors
course, it will deal with the philosophy of government and economics and the interplay between the two in the last 200
years. Federalism, political theory and behavior, party philosophy, and the three branches of the national and state
government will be explored in the government portion of the course. Current issues and municipal government will also be
covered. The economics portion of the course will provide basic economic literacy to the student by covering the
fundamental ideas in microeconomics and macroeconomics. Research, writing, and independent inquiry into topics will be
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stressed. Carefully selected readings supplement the text. A research paper and a series of projects are required. This
course is recommended for students interested in the Arts/Humanities/Traditional Academic Pathway.
210431 COLLEGE PREP GOVERNMENT/ECONOMICS
Year 1.0 credit 11
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Leadership, Service and Citizenship
Prerequisites: United States History and World History.
This course is designed as a survey of the American government and the American economic system. Designed as a college
preparatory course, it will deal with the philosophy of government and economics and the interplay between the two in the
last 200 years. Federalism, political theory and behavior, party philosophy, and the three branches of the national and state
government will be explored in the government portion of the course. Current events and municipal government will also
be covered. The economics portion of the course will provide basic economic literacy to the student by covering the
fundamental ideas in microeconomics and macroeconomics. More importantly, the student will be exposed to the critical
relationship between government, business, and the emerging global economy as well as the resulting impact on their lives.
A field trip to Washington, DC, or another government-related site is available to interested students. This course is
recommended for students interested in the Arts/Humanities/Traditional Academic Pathway.
210432 GOVERNMENT/ECONOMICS
Year 1.0 credit 11
Top 3 Skills: Initiative, Teamwork Skills, Honesty
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Leadership, Service and Citizenship
Prerequisites: United States History and World History.
This course is designed as a survey of the American government and the American economic system. The course is for
students in the technical pathway. The course will integrate the state standards in government and economics and will
include the principles and documents of government, rights, and responsibilities of citizenship, how government works,
how international relationships function, economic systems, markets and functions of governments, scarcity and choice,
economic interdependence, and work and earnings. A field trip to Washington, D. C., or other government-related sites
may be offered.
210433 *AP US GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
Year 1.0 credit 11
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Time Management, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
AP United States Government and Politics introduces students to key political ideas, institutions, policies, interactions,
roles, and behaviors that characterize the political culture of the United States. The course examines politically significant
concepts and themes, through which students learn to apply disciplinary reasoning, assess the causes and consequences of
political events, and interpret data to develop evidence-based arguments.
210451 *AP WORLD HISTORY
Year 1.0 credit 9
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Time Management, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
The AP World History course is designed to provide an opportunity for advanced study for tenth graders. Chronologically,
the course covers the period from 1200 CE to the present and focuses on the nature of changes in human society from a
global approach. The course will provide students with the analytical skills and factual knowledge equivalent to an
introductory course in world history. Intense independent study and analytical writing are required.
210452 *AP UNITED STATES HISTORY
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
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The AP U.S. History course is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal
critically with the problems and material in U.S. history. Students will learn to assess historical materials, their relevance to
a given interpretive problem, reliability, and importance, and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in
historical scholarship. An AP U.S. History class helps develop the skills necessary to arrive at conclusions on the basis of an
informed judgment and to present reasons and evidence clearly and persuasively in essay format. A field trip to a historical
site is planned.
Social Studies Electives
210450 *AP EUROPEAN HISTORY
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Time Management, Initiative, Writing Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
The study of European History since 1450 introduces students to cultural, economic, political, and social developments that
played a fundamental role in shaping the world in which they live. In addition to providing a basic narrative of events and
movements, the goals of European History are to develop an ability to analyze historical evidence and historical
interpretation, and an ability to express historical understanding and writing. A field trip to a relevant site is planned.
210454 *AP PSYCHOLOGY
210454B *AP PSYCHOLOGY (Blended Option)
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Initiative, Time Management, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
This course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior of mental processes of
human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the
psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. Students will
also learn about ethics and methods that psychologists use in their scientific studies.
210455 *AP ECONOMICS
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Students will study both Microeconomics and Macroeconomics principles throughout the course of the year in preparation
for the College Board’s Advanced Placement Examinations. During the first semester, students will gain an understanding of
principles that apply to individual consumers within the larger economic system. The primary emphasis of the study will be
focused on product markets, factor markets, and the government’s role in promoting greater competition, efficiency, and
equity in the economy. The second portion of the course will deal with Macroeconomics principles. The study of national
income and price-level determination, and also developing students’ familiarity with economic performance measures, the
financial sector, stabilization policies, economic growth, and international economies will be included. Strong graphing skills
are required.
210456 *AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Initiative, Time Management, Writing Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness
The AP Human Geography course presents high school students with the curricular equivalent of an introductory college-
level course in human or cultural geography. The course introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and
processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth's surface. Students learn to employ spatial
concepts and landscape analysis to examine human socioeconomic organization and its environmental consequences. They
also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications.
52
210467 AP COMPARATIVE GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
Year 1.0 Credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness
AP Comparative Government and Politics introduces students to the rich diversity of political life outside the United States.
The course uses a comparative approach to examine the political structures; policies; and political, economic, and social
challenges of six selected countries: China, Iran, Mexico, Nigeria, Russia, and the United Kingdom. Students compare the
effectiveness of approaches to many global issues by examining how different governments solve similar problems. Finally,
this course will prepare students for the AP Comparative Government and Politics exam.
210461 PSYCHOLOGY
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
This course stresses the scientific method used in psychology to approach human problems. The focus is on what is
happening to society today and how individuals relate to one another. Topics will include stress, mental illness, self-image,
and personality. This course is for those who plan to go to a four-year college. This course is recommended for those
students interested in the Arts/Humanities/ Communications Cluster in the Traditional Academic Pathway as well as those
in the Technical Academic Pathway.
210462 COLLEGE PREP STREET LAW
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Honesty, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Service & Citizenship
This course is designed to give students practical knowledge of the law. A field trip to a law-related institution is planned.
This course is recommended for those students interested in the Arts/Humanities/ Communications Cluster in the
Traditional Academic Pathway as well as those in the Technical Academic Pathway.
210470 AMERICAN HISTORY THROUGH FILM
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
This is a reading and writing-intensive course that seeks to answer the question, “Is film a historical source?” Students will
be studying different themes in American History and culture through primary and secondary resources and comparing
these to various films. To create a successful and productive classroom dialogue, this course is recommended to students
with a strong interest in American culture and historical analysis. Students should be prepared to study mature themes and
subjects.
210471 20
th
CENTURY US MILITARY HISTORY
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Prerequisites: B or better in previous Social Studies courses.
20th Century American Military History is an elective, half-year course at Avon Grove High School that explores the
evolution of warfare throughout history, with particular focus on American military history. The class will focus on the great
campaigns, battles, technology, tactics, and personalities that shaped history. Students will have the opportunity to analyze
the causes and effects of significant military conflicts throughout history, as well as examine challenges pertaining to
current warfare, the future of the US military, and threats and challenges that lie ahead.
210472 GREEK AND ROMAN HISTORY
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
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Prerequisites: B or better in previous Social Studies courses.
This semester-long course will focus on the Classical Era of Greek and Roman Civilization. Beginning with the rise of
powerful city-states in Greece such as Athens and Sparta, and concluding with the fall of the Western Roman Empire in 476
AD, students will gain a more in-depth learning experience of the two civilizations that are the foundations of Western
civilization. This course is ideally suited for those students that have a strong desire to learn about ancient history, as well as
plan to enroll in History courses at the college level. This course will require independent reading, writing, and analyzing
primary sources.
210473 HOLOCAUST AND GENOCIDE STUDIES
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core knowledge, Collaboration, Cultural awareness
This course is a multidisciplinary study of the events in Europe from 1935 to 1945 known as the Holocaust, as well as a
consideration of genocidal events in other regions during the 20
th
and 21
st
centuries. Using readings and film from history,
political science, literature, religion, philosophy, art, and psychology, the approach will be a problem-solving one focusing
on understanding historical events and human behavior. Students should be prepared to consider mature themes and
topics.
210474 SOCIOLOGY
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, critical thinking, Accountability
Sociology is the scientific study of human groups and social behavior. It is also part of the social sciences which include
history, economics, psychology, political science, and anthropology. The difference between sociology and the other social
sciences is the word “social”. Sociology studies all factors when two or more people interact with each other under all
conditions. Because of its broad coverage, there are many areas of study that will be discussed such as religion, culture,
deviant behavior, inequality of gender, family, education, and others.
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WORLD LANGUAGES COURSE
PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of World Languages courses.
Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
World Languages
Grades
French
German
Italian
Spanish
9
10
11
12
x
x
x
x
French I
French II
1
German I
Italian I
Honors Accelerated
Italian I and II
1
(next class is Italian III)
Spanish I
Spanish II
1
Spanish for Native
Speakers I
x
x
x
French III
1
German II
1
Honors Accelerated
German II and III
1
(next class is German IV)
Italian II
1
Italian III
1
Spanish III
1
Spanish for Native
Speakers II
1
(next class is AP)
x
x
Honors French IV
1
German III
1
Honors German IV
1
Honors Italian IV
1
Honors Spanish IV
1
x
AP French Language
1
AP Spanish Language
1
AP Spanish Literature
and Culture
1
Please see the course planning guide about the prerequisite courses required.
¹Requires a prerequisite course to take the advanced level.
55
WORLD LANGUAGES
The World Language Department provides an opportunity for serious students to acquire second language skills in French,
Spanish, German, and Italian. Most colleges require at least two consecutive years of foreign language high school credits.
In order to begin world language study, we suggest that students possess strong English skills.
The guidelines for the continuation of study will be the successful completion of the previous course in sequence. In
addition, to ensure the success of all students, a grammar evaluation assessment will be administered to incoming students
transferring from a different district school or state. The results of the exam will be used to assist with the placement of
students in language courses at or above level II (for that language).
Seniors interested in taking an entry-level world language must meet one of the following prerequisites: 1) have
successfully completed two years of a world language with a final grade of B or better in each class prior to enrollment and
2) have not had the opportunity to take an entry-level language prior to senior year due to scheduling reasons or other
special circumstances. Each request will be evaluated on a case-by-case basis by the guidance counselor, the world
languages department chair, and an administrator when appropriate. Priority in scheduling entry-level world language
courses will be given to students in grades 9-11 who have not yet had the opportunity to take an entry-level world language
course.
210511 SPANISH I
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Speaking Skills, Writing Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: Minimum of C+ in ELA (middle school) or a minimum of C+ in English (high school).
This is an introduction to the Spanish language emphasizing the skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students
will also be exposed to the customs and culture of Spanish-speaking countries. This is a college preparatory language course
that emphasizes grammar and spelling as well as conversational skills.
210512 SPANISH II
Year 1.0 credit 9,10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Writing Skills, Speaking Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: C in Spanish I.
This course is a continuation of Spanish I with more emphasis placed on reading and writing through grammar study.
Cultural and conversational skills are expanded.
210513 SPANISH III
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B in Spanish II.
This course focuses on the history, geography, and culture of Spanish-speaking countries. In an effort to increase
communication and oral fluency in the language, more emphasis will be placed on reading, understanding, and oral
proficiency than in level II. Advanced grammar skills are expanded.
210515 *HONORS SPANISH IV
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B in Spanish III.
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This course is designed for the advanced language student preparing for the AP Spanish course and exam. The course
emphasis will be focused on improving grammar skills through the listening, speaking, reading, and writing process.
Students will also be exposed to Spanish and Latin American literature selections as a means of discussion and self-
expression in the language. Serious students will find this course most helpful in their overall Spanish language experience.
210521 FRENCH I
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Speaking Skills, Writing Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: Minimum of C+ in ELA (middle school), or a minimum of C+ in English (high school).
This is an introduction to the French language emphasizing the skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students
will also learn about the customs and culture of France and the Francophone world.
210522 FRENCH II
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Writing Skills, Speaking Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: C in French I.
French II is a basic study of the language emphasizing the skills of reading and writing while enhancing listening and
speaking skills.
210523 FRENCH III
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B in French II.
This is an intermediate level of language learning with an emphasis on vocabulary enrichment and advanced grammatical
constructions. At this level, students read short stories and their first novel.
210525 *HONORS FRENCH IV
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B in French III.
This is an advanced-level language class with a strong emphasis on improving a solid grammar base along with a variety of
cultural content and literature to achieve advanced-level proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The
inclusion of an AP comprehensive section will assist the student in transitioning to level V for preparation for the College
Board Exam.
210531 GERMAN I
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Speaking Skills, Writing Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: Minimum of C+ in ELA (middle school), or a minimum of C+ in English (high school).
This is an introduction to the German language emphasizing the skills of reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students
will also be exposed to the customs and culture of Germany. This is a college preparatory language course that emphasizes
grammar and spelling and conversational skills.
210532 GERMAN II
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Writing Skills, Speaking Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: C in German I.
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In German II, students will improve and expand upon their basic skills acquired in German I. In addition, students will
continue with progressive readings and speaking skills through dialogue, role-playing, and conversational exercises. German
culture and history will continue to be presented.
210533 GERMAN III
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B in German II.
This course is designed for students to continue their learning of the German language based on various cultural and
historical topics. There is an emphasis placed on dialogues and reading selections that present real-life contexts in order to
increase the overall understanding of German. There will be a focus and continuation of grammar structures and
vocabulary in order to successfully communicate in German.
210535 *HONORS GERMAN IV
210535B *HONORS GERMAN IV (Blended Option)
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B in German III.
Students will gain advanced proficiency in the skill areas of reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Emphasis is placed on
oral communication. German history, literature, and art will be studied to help students gain a deeper understanding of the
German language and culture.
210536 *HONORS ACCELERATED GERMAN II AND III
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B+ in the most recent ELA course or B+ in German I.
Accelerated German 2 and 3 Honors is a one-year accelerated course that combines the content of German 2 and German 3
at an accelerated pace to prepare students for German 4 Honors and then AP German. The course content of German 2 and
3 will be condensed, which will result in potentially more homework and less review than would otherwise occur for this
content.
210541 ITALIAN I
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Speaking Skills, Writing Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: Minimum of C+ in ELA (middle school), or a minimum of C+ in English (high school).
This is an introduction to the Italian language and culture. Vocabulary acquisition and basic grammar skills are emphasized.
Students will be required to show novice mastery in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
210542 ITALIAN II
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Writing Skills, Speaking Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: C in Italian I.
This course is designed as a continuation of Italian I to improve and expand upon their basic skills. Furthermore, students
will compare and contrast aspects of Italian and American culture. Students will be required to show intermediate low
mastery in all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing.
210543 ITALIAN III
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
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Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B in Italian II.
This course focuses on more advanced grammatical constructions, greater vocabulary enrichment, and a deeper
exploration of Italian culture. Students will be exposed to Italian geography and customs. They will also be able to read a
chapter book in Italian. Speaking, reading, and writing are emphasized.
210545 *HONORS ITALIAN IV
Year 1.0 credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B in Italian III.
This course is designed for intermediate-mid to intermediate-high language students. The course emphasis will be on
expanding vocabulary and improving grammatical skills. Students will be exposed to and report on Italian literature,
cinema, art, and music as a means to seminar-style discussion and self-expression in the language. They will also be able to
read two collections of stories in Italian. Speaking and writing are emphasized. Enrichment opportunities will be offered to
those students interested in taking the AP Exam in Italian Language and Culture.
210546 *HONORS ACCELERATED ITALIAN I AND II
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Communication, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: B+ in ELA course for Romance- language speakers or A- in another world language course.
This course combines Italian 1 and 2. The scope and breadth of levels 1 and 2 include experiences from middle school, in
which all students have taken both Spanish and French, other Romance- languages. The course content will be condensed,
which will result in potentially more homework and less review than would otherwise occur for this content.
210550 *AP SPANISH LANGUAGE
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Rising to the Challenge, Time Management, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Spanish IV with a B average and teacher recommendation.
This course is primarily focused on preparing the advanced language student to take the AP Spanish exam but is not
exclusive to those students. This course will work to develop the student’s language skills with an emphasis on vocabulary
enrichment to increase their abilities in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will work to increase their fluency
and accuracy in both written and spoken Spanish. Students taking the AP Exam will be exempt from the course’s final exam.
210551 *AP FRENCH LANGUAGE
Year 1.0 credit 12
Top 3 Skills: Rising to the Challenge, Time Management, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness
Prerequisite: Successful completion of French IV with a B Average and teacher recommendation.
This course is primarily focused on preparing the advanced language student to take the AP French Language Exam but is
not exclusive to those students. This course will work to develop the student’s language skills with an emphasis on
vocabulary enrichment to increase their abilities in listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students will work to increase
their fluency and accuracy in both written and spoken French. Students taking the AP Exam will be exempt from the
course’s final exam.
210552 *AP SPANISH LITERATURE AND CULTURE
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Rising to the Challenge, Time Management, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Cultural Awareness
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This course uses a thematic approach to introduce students to representative texts (short stories, novels, poetry, and
essays) from Peninsular Spanish, Latin American, and United States Hispanic literature. Students continue to develop
proficiencies across the full range of modes of communication (interpersonal, presentational, and interpretive), honing
their critical reading and analytical writing skills. Literature is examined within the context of its time and place, and also
includes a strong focus on cultural connections and comparisons, including exploration of various media (e.g., art, film,
articles, and literary criticism).
210561 SPANISH FOR NATIVE SPEAKERS I
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Teamwork Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
This course offers native speakers of Spanish the opportunity to strengthen their basic skills, focusing on Spanish reading
and writing. Through the analysis and study of global themes, students’ knowledge, and pride in their heritage are
enhanced.
210562 SPANISH FOR NATIVE SPEAKERS II
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Speaking Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Prerequisite: Spanish for Native Speakers I.
Students will continue their study of their native Spanish language, heritage, and culture. A focus on skills for analyzing and
comprehending written Spanish will continue through varied types of speaking, reading, and writing exercises, as well as
the use of multimedia and film, to enhance the learning process. The course will use supplemental texts (novels and/or
short story anthologies) to provide for students’ Spanish literary and cultural awareness.
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HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Physical Education Overview
The purpose of physical education is to develop and educate students to become integrated individuals; physically,
mentally, socially, and emotionally.
The AGHS H/PE Department is committed to teaching students the value of physical activity in promoting fitness and giving
them the opportunity to increase their fitness levels through a variety of activities. Students have the opportunity to
succeed at their own level, which provides many psychological benefits contributing to a greater sense of well-being,
positive self-esteem, and personally rewarding experiences. A combination of team and individual activities provide a
balance of traditional and non-traditional programs. Emphasis is on mastery of skills, strategies, and safety procedures as
they relate to each activity, equipment, and program.
Each Physical Education course is required and a semester in length. All students must complete 2 credits of Physical
Education to fulfill graduation requirements. Students may take 2 Physical Education classes in a single year provided that
they are taken in the appropriate sequence: (PE 1, PE 2, PE 3, and PE 4).
210612 PHYSICAL EDUCATION 1
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Rising to the Challenge, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Health & Advocacy, Collaboration, Resilience
This course is concerned with basic skill development, physical fitness, and social development. Emphasis is placed on basic
skills and rules. Team sports offer the opportunity for the development of teamwork, leadership, and cooperation.
Individual activities offer the opportunity for self-motivation, creative expression, and personal goal-setting.
210622 PHYSICAL EDUCATION 2
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Rising to the Challenge, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Health & Advocacy, Collaboration, Resilience
This course is designed to develop and refine the skills introduced in PE 1. Emphasis is placed on increased levels of
performance in team and individual sports. Wellness and fitness will be consistent themes throughout the curriculum.
210632 PHYSICAL EDUCATION 3
Semester 0.5 credit 10,11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Rising to the Challenge, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Health & Advocacy, Collaboration, Resilience
This program provides the opportunity to engage in team sports and individual lifetime activities that have carry-over value
into adult life. Basic skills and basic rules of recreational-type activities are introduced. Wellness and fitness will be
consistent themes throughout. Cooperative learning and group activities will be presented in an adventure-based non-
traditional curriculum. Our indoor climbing facility will be used to culminate the learning experience.
210633 ADVANCED PHYSICAL EDUCATION
Semester 0.5 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Rising to the Challenge, Initiative, Team Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Health & Advocacy, Collaboration, Resilience
Prerequisite: Successful completion of PE1 and PE2 with a B+ or higher.
This course is designed for students with a strong interest in physical education, recreation, and related fields. Students are
challenged to learn more about individual and team activities and explore topics not covered in the traditional physical
education program. Students will participate in higher-level and faster-paced activities that will enhance their fitness and
foster a physically and mentally competitive environment in both individual and team-based activities. Opportunities for
planning activities, teaching peers, as well as coaching and strategizing will be included.
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210642 PHYSICAL EDUCATION 4
Semester 0.5 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Rising to the Challenge, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Health & Advocacy, Collaboration, Resilience
This program provides for additional lifetime sports involvement. More advanced development in team and individual sport
is encouraged. Students are given the opportunity to develop personal goals of physical fitness for lifetime performance. A
community CPR certificate course will also be included at this level.
Health Overview
Health is a graded semester course of 0.5 credits offered in the sophomore year and is required for graduation. The
curriculum is designed to involve students in educational activities to promote and emphasize wellness and improve the
overall quality of life. Helping to reduce and prevent morbidity and mortality rates is a primary concern. The program will
emphasize the mental, social, and physical aspects of health. Within each subject area, activities will be designed to
promote the idea of optimal health and wellness for the individual, family, and community. Concepts in health education
are taught using multimedia presentations and assignments are designed to evoke critical thinking about various health
topics.
210625 HEALTH EDUCATION
Semester 0.5 credit 10
Top 3 Skills: Initiative, Problem-Solving Skills, Speaking Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Health & Advocacy, Communication, Resilience
This sophomore course is concerned with the topics listed in the State Guidelines for Health Education. Emphasis is placed
on the areas of human sexuality, social diseases, mental hygiene, substance abuse, human relationships, and nutrition.
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BUSINESS, COMPUTER, AND INFORMATION
TECHNOLOGY COURSE PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of Business, Computer, and Information Technology
courses. Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
Business, Computer, and Information Technology
Grade
Business Administration
Computer Applications
Computer Programming
9th -12th
Introduction to Business
Personal Finance
Marketing
1
Microsoft Office I
Introduction to
Computer Science
Programming Languages I
Programming Languages II
1
10th-12th
Accounting I
1
Accounting II
1
Microsoft Office II
1
AP Computer Science Principles
1
11th-12th
AP Computer Science A
1
Please see the course planning guide about the prerequisite courses required.
¹Requires a prerequisite course to take the advanced level.
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BUSINESS, COMPUTER, AND INFORMATION
TECHNOLOGY
It is the goal of the Business Education Department to prepare students with the knowledge, skills, and attitudes
necessary to be successful in an ever-changing world. To meet this end, the Business Department offers a wide scope of
courses from which all students may elect during their four years of high school. Students may elect these courses in
preparation for a career in business in an area such as accounting, or they may elect business courses for their own
personal development. A large number of computer courses are also offered as part of the Business Education
curriculum. The changing world is dependent on technology. Technology gives students a more interactive role in the
learning process. In today’s world, it is imperative students develop word-processing, database, spreadsheet, and
programming skills.
Business Administration
210720 INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Speaking Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Business Management and Administration
Career Cluster: Business Management
This is the introductory course to the business pathway. This is an introduction to what business is, how it operates, and
how it is managed. Topics to be covered include economics, various types of businesses, the primary functions of
businesses, management techniques, and entrepreneurship. After the successful completion of this course, students will be
prepared to continue in the business pathway.
210725 PERSONAL FINANCE
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Time Management, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Literacies, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Business Management and Administration
Career Cluster: Finance
Have you ever wanted to be financially independent? This course will inform students how individual choices directly
affect personal goals and their future. Real-world topics covered include income, money management, spending, and
credit, as well as saving and investing. Students will design personal budgets utilizing checking and savings accounts.
They will also gain knowledge in finance, debt and credit management, investment options and strategies, and
insurance and taxes. This course will provide a basic understanding of making informed personal finance decisions
leading to financial freedom.
210726 MARKETING
210726B MARKETING (Blended Option)
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Teamwork Skills, Speaking Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Business Management and Administration
Career Cluster: Marketing Sales and Service
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Business suggested.
The first half of this course will provide the student with a basic introduction to the foundations and functions of
marketing. In the second half of the course, students will apply these marketing skills to multiple industries. This
course is designed for students interested in careers in sales management, public relations, human resources, market
research, and advertising.
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210737 ACCOUNTING I
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Business Management and Administration
Career Cluster: Finance
Prerequisite: Suggested successful completion of Introduction to Business and Microsoft Office I.
The first-year comprehensive accounting course will give students a thorough background in the accounting procedures and
concepts utilized to operate a business entity. Students will learn to interpret and record financial information from
business transactions in a professional manner. Students will learn about bank procedures and how to reconcile and
manage a checkbook. The course covers the complete accounting cycle and the preparation of end-of-year worksheets,
financial reports, and closing entries. This course provides students with a sound background for employment in the
business community or to pursue further study in business.
210738 ACCOUNTING II
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Business Management and Administration
Career Cluster: Finance
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Accounting I.
Accounting II further acquaints the student with the use of business records needed for the interpretation of financial data.
Thorough coverage of advanced topics such as inventory methods, plant assets, notes, and receivables, among others,
helps to develop a student’s analytical and interpretive skills. This course is beneficial for students who plan an accounting
or business major in college. Students will also learn to complete accounting transactions on the computer using accounting
software.
Computer Applications
210710 MICROSOFT OFFICE I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Speaking Skills, Time Management, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resiliene
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Information Technology
Students will learn features in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. This course prepares students for using
Microsoft applications which are commonly used in the business and academic worlds. Students will create documents,
spreadsheets, presentations, and databases that will simulate real-world applications while learning the functions of the
programs. This course will also prepare students to take the Microsoft Office Specialist certification exams offered in the
Microsoft Office II course.
210711 MICROSOFT OFFICE II
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Speaking Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Information Technology
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Microsoft Office I.
The students will continue to build on the Microsoft Office I skills to prepare for the Microsoft Office Specialist certification
exams. This course prepares students for successfully earning up to four Microsoft Office Specialist certifications, including
Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
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Computer Programming
210700 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE
210700B INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER SCIENCE (Blended Option)
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Communication, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Information Technology
This course is designed to teach students the fundamentals of computer programming. Students will learn the skills and
concepts of computer science as well as computing. Students will learn to use decision structures, loop structures, and sub-
procedures. They will learn to format output. This course is designed for the new programmer and will prepare a student to
take advanced programming courses.
210714 *AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Time Management, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Information Technology
Recommended Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Computer Science.
This course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the
Internet, cybersecurity concerns, and computing impacts. The course also provides the opportunity to use current
technologies to create computational artifacts for both self-expression and problem-solving. Together, these aspects of the
course make up a rigorous and rich curriculum that aims to broaden participation in computer science.
210715 *AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Time Management, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Information Technology
Prerequisite: Successful completion of AP Computer Science Principles.
AP Computer Science A is equivalent to a first-semester college-level course in computer science. The course introduces
students to computer science with fundamental topics that include problem-solving, design strategies and methodologies,
organization of data (data structures), approaches to processing data (algorithms), analysis of potential solutions, and the
ethical and social implications of computing.
210716 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Communication, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Information Technology
This course is a hands-on introduction to basic programming language concepts and techniques. Students will learn
how to construct basic algorithms and write computer programs using basic types, loops, and conditionals on a daily
basis. Students will be able to choose from various languages, including C++, Java, HTML/CSS, Python, and more.
210717 PROGRAMMING LANGUAGES II
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Initiative
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Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Information Technology
This course builds on Programming Language I with additional language concepts and techniques. This course is hands-
on, and project-based as students will construct basic algorithms and write computer programs using basic types, loops,
and conditionals. The students will be able to choose programming languages that were not chosen during the
Programming Languages I course, including C++, Java, HTML/CSS, Python, and more.
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APPLIED ENGINEERING COURSE
PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of Applied Engineering courses.
Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
Applied Engineering
Grade
Applied Materials
Computer Technology
Visual Communications
Agriculture
9th-12th
Metal Technology I
Woodworking I
Aviation Principles and FAA
107 Drone Certification
Computer Game
Design I
Computer Engineering
Robotics Engineering
Introduction to CAD
Audio/Video Engineering
Audio/Video
Production I
Audio/Video
Production II
1,2
Agriculture I
10th-12th
Home Planning and
Maintenance¹
Metal Technology II
1,2
Production Technology
1
Woodworking II
1,2
Advanced Materials and
Composites
Computer Game
Design II¹
Architectural CAD
1,2
Engineering CAD
1,2
Agriculture II
1,2
Please see the course planning guide about the prerequisite courses required.
¹Requires a prerequisite course to take the advanced level.
2
Courses that can be retaken unlimited times for credit.
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APPLIED ENGINEERING
Applied Engineering is an organization of experiences designed to assist the formation of concepts and the development of
insights into technology. The experiences are grouped into three major categories: Applied Materials, Computer
Technology, and Visual Communications. All second-level Applied Engineering courses may be taken multiple times for full
credit.
Applied Materials
Applied Materials is a study of materials as they exist in the natural environment and how these materials are transformed
through extraction, fabrication, manufacturing, and construction into human-made consumable products within the
program. Activities provide experiences fundamental to good conservation practices, experimentation, testing, use, and
analysis of materials.
210820 WOODWORKING I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Time Management, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Using hand and power tools, students will produce an individual required project in the first marking period. The students
will then be allowed to design or select a project that utilizes CAM for the second marking period. Instruction will be given
on the proper and safe use of tools. Basic material construction and joinery techniques will be stressed. Students are to
wear safety glasses at all times and are responsible for the expense of materials.
210821 WOODWORKING II (Fall)
210822 WOODWORKING II (Spring)
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
This course may be taken multiple times.
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Prerequisites: A minimum grade of C in Woodworking I. The first Semester is 210821, the second semester is 210822.
Students will be allowed to design or select projects. Emphasis on advanced techniques and time management will be
stressed. The traditional design, as well as contemporary developments including large format CNC, will be covered.
Students are to wear safety glasses at all times and are responsible for the expense of materials.
210823 PRODUCTION TECHNOLOGY
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Time Management, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Manufacturing
Prerequisite: Woodworking I.
This course is a systematic study of common production materials and manufacturing processes. In this course, students
will develop an understanding of manufacturing production and management by forming a “corporation”, selecting and
designing a project, and producing that project as a group using mass production techniques.
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210824 HOME PLANNING AND MAINTENANCE
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Construction and Architecture
Prerequisite: Woodworking I.
The purpose of this course is to make educated housing consumers of students. This course is designed to prepare students
to competently assist in planning for the construction or renovation/ expansion of a home. The course will then focus on
repairs and preventive maintenance of the structure and all major subsystems.
210825 ADVANCED MATERIALS AND COMPOSITES
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Advanced materials are becoming common in your everyday life and will help shape the world of items around you in the
future. As a student in this class, you will explore the use of composites such as carbon fiber/resin, ceramics, adhesives, and
more. Designing and fabricating these materials in an engineering and environmentally conscious manner will be the focus.
210830 METAL TECHNOLOGY I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
This course is designed to give students a basic understanding of engineering concepts, materials, tools, and procedures
used in metalworking technology. Students will have the opportunity to use Computer Aided Machining (CAM) and learn
skills in welding, conventional machining, and precision measurement. These skills will provide a firm foundation for further
study of machine tools processes. Safety precautions are highlighted. Required projects are assigned. Students are
responsible for the expense of all materials and are always to wear safety glasses. This course is a prerequisite to Metal
Technology II.
210831 METAL TECHNOLOGY II (Fall)
210832 METAL TECHNOLOGY II (Spring)
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
This course may be taken multiple times.
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Prerequisite: A minimum grade of “C” in Metal Technology I. The first semester is 210831, the second semester is 210832.
Metal Technology II is designed to build upon previous metalworking skills and techniques learned and applied from Metal
Technology I. In this course, the practices of welding, Computer Aided Machining (CAM), and precision measurement will
be taught. Students will design and create projects of their choice with the instructor's permission. Students will always
wear safety glasses and are responsible for the expense of materials.
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Computer Technology
These classes provide students with skills based on technology driven by computer hardware and software.
210840 COMPUTER ENGINEERING
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
This course may be taken multiple times.
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Prerequisites: Students may not have any prior computer-related disciplinary referrals.
This course is designed to give students hands-on experience with Arduino, Raspberry Pi, circuit boards, electricity,
desktop/laptop, computer hardware, and 3D Printer hardware/software. The course is recommended for students who
have postsecondary plans in the Information Technology or Electrical/Electronic Engineering areas.
210841 ROBOTICS ENGINEERING
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
This course may be taken multiple times.
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Initiative, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
This is an entry-level course in the design and manufacture of robotic devices. Students will be introduced to engineering
concepts in electrical, pneumatic, and mechanical applications. Students will design robotic parts using CAD software and
machine parts using conventional and CNC machines. Students will also learn what constitutes a robot in its function, travel,
and design. Students will have the opportunity to manufacture a robot to perform a task.
210842 COMPUTER GAME DESIGN I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Prerequisites: Students may not have any prior computer-related disciplinary referrals.
Using game programming software, students will design educational and entertainment games. In addition to the core
programming skills students will develop related academic skills such as math and physics for motion, English for plot
development, and the arts for content development will also be incorporated into the class.
210843 COMPUTER GAME DESIGN II
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Initiative, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Leadership, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Prerequisite: Computer Game Design I.
Students will develop additional skills and competencies in the topics of game design, graphic design in games,
monetization scenarios, and gamification of education. Two capstone projects will be completed. This course goes a level
beyond Computer Game Design I in rigor, challenges, and expectations.
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210844 AVIATION PRINCIPLES AND FAA 107 DRONE CERTIFICATION
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Initiative, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Leadership, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Students will study the principles of flight for fixed and rotary wing aircraft. Based on knowledge of general aviation
principles, students will follow a course of study designed to prepare them to become FAA-certified drone pilots by taking
the part 107 exam at age 16. The study of regulations and safe operation of UAS (Unmanned Aircraft Systems or drones) in
US airspace is the content of this exam. Students interested in careers in aviation operations and design are encouraged to
enroll in this course.
Visual Communications
Visual Communications in Applied Engineering is based on three-dimensional computer-aided design, game design, and
audio/video production. The three-dimensional entry-level CAD course, Introduction to CAD, covers two major areas:
Engineering and Architecture. The upper-level courses, which focus on one of these areas, can be taken multiple times.
210800 INTRODUCTION TO CAD
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
This is a basic course in three-dimensional computer-aided design (CAD). Basic math skills, precision measurement, and
manipulative skills are developed by means of creating engineering and architectural models. Computer-Aided Machining
(CAM) and 3D printing will also be introduced. Skills learned in this class will be applied in all Applied Engineering classes. To
Be Noted: This course is strongly recommended prior to students taking any Applied Engineering materials courses.
210801 ENGINEERING CAD
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
This course may be taken multiple times.
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to CAD.
This class will be helpful to students who plan a career in engineering and/or manufacturing. Included are part and
assembly design, two-dimensional print reading and creation, Computer Aided Manufacturing, and 3D printing. Multiple
areas of industry and technology are studied. Three-dimensional CAD and CAM technologies will be used to complete
projects.
210802 ARCHITECTURAL CAD
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
This course may be taken multiple times.
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Construction and Architecture
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to CAD.
Students taking this course will advance in the architectural design field by practicing building techniques from foundation
to finished home. Students will also learn the proper use of materials, code compliance, overall form and function, and
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production of large-format floor plans and elevations. Three-dimensional CAD technologies will be used to complete
projects.
210803 AUDIO/VIDEO PRODUCTION I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Teamwork Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Resilience
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
This is an entry-level course in the production of media for video and the web. This class will focus on the use of the
computer for video editing, effects generation, and animation. The use of cameras, computer recording/editing software,
microphones, lighting, audio, and video mixers will be covered. It is mandatory that students demonstrate responsibility
and maturity in content and equipment operation to continue in the program.
210804 AUDIO/VIDEO ENGINEERING
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Teamwork Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Resilience
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Live production and studio production are used to support student understanding and application of audio and video
physics, project management, and career exploration and preparation. Coursework will directly support AGTV. Engineering
for audio and video is a viable career path and knowledge in this area is useful for any career involving technology.
210805 AUDIO/VIDEO PRODUCTION II
210805B AUDIO/VIDEO PRODUCTION II (Blended Option)
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Teamwork Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Resilience
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
Prerequisite: Audio/Video Production I.
In this class, students will work on independent projects and be available to take on projects that assist the staff of Avon
Grove Schools, businesses, non-profits, and others in need of services in the community. Competencies would focus on
project management, directing, story creation, monetization scenarios, and video in education.
210808 AGRICULTURE I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Agriculture I will focus on local, national, and global agriculture and how it affects every aspect of our lives. Topics will
include production agriculture, horticulture, animal science, agricultural engineering, and agricultural construction.
Students will use science, technology, engineering, and math skills in order to complete hands-on projects, class
discussions, lectures, and community improvement projects.
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210809 AGRICULTURE II
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Collaboration, Accountability
Top 3 Competencies:
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Engineering and Engineering Technology
Agriculture II will focus on how local, national, and global agriculture affects our lives. Students will learn about production
agriculture, horticulture, animal science, agricultural engineering, and agricultural construction, using STEM skills to
complete hands-on projects, class discussions, and community improvement projects.
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ART COURSE PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of Art courses.
Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
Art
Grade
2-Dimensional
3-Dimensional
Digital Art
Arts Appreciation
9th -12th
Introduction to Studio Arts
Mixed Media
Visual Storytelling
Printmaking³
Ceramics I
Ceramics II
1,3
Advanced Ceramics:
Wheelthrowing
3
3-D Art Forms
Wearable Art
Adobe Illustrator
3
Graphic Design I
Graphic Design II¹
Arts, Music, and Culture
10th-12th
Drawing I¹
Drawing II
2,3
Painting I¹
Painting II
2,3
Jewelry and Metalsmithing
I
Jewelry and Metalsmithing
II
1
Animation
1,3
Digital Photography
3
11th-12th
Portfolio Preparation
2,3
AP Art History
Please see the course planning guide about the prerequisite courses required.
¹Requires a prerequisite course to take the advanced level.
²Requires two prerequisite courses to take this course.
³Course that can be retaken for credit.
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ART
The Art Department recognizes the overwhelming need for artists and designers in today's innovative workforce. We are
committed to providing the students of Avon Grove High School the opportunity to develop artistically. Our goal is to create
an atmosphere where new ideas, experimentation, and discovery regularly take place. A variety of media and techniques
are explored throughout the art curriculum, as well as an aesthetic appreciation of historical and current works in art and
design.
Studio Arts: 2-Dimensional Art
210900 INTRODUCTION TO STUDIO ARTS
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Taking Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Resilience, Critical Thinking, Growth Mindset
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
This course is a prerequisite to Drawing I, Drawing II, Painting I, and Portfolio Preparation. Students interested in the art
career pathway should take this course in their freshman year.
Students interested in pursuing a career in visual arts should take this course during their freshman year. This is an
introductory course, exposing students to elements of two-dimensional design through the process of drawing and
painting. Students learn how to draw proportionally correct and shade three-dimensional forms from observation. Artistic
media include but are not limited to graphite, charcoal, oil pastels, pen and ink, watercolor, and acrylic paint. Students gain
and apply their understanding of composition, color theory, and art criticism.
210901 DRAWING I
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Problem-Solving Skills, Speaking Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Communication, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Studio Arts or Mixed Media. Students who have chosen a career
pathway in fine arts should plan to take this course early to advance.
This course will provide you with in-depth instruction on the design elements and techniques needed to create successful
two-dimensional artwork. The emphasis of your learning will be based on drawing from life to develop keen observation
skills. This knowledge of “seeing” will help your artwork to have convincing 3D illusion, textures, and depth. Materials such
as pencil, pen and ink, charcoal, and pastels will be used to complete drawing projects in illustration, portraiture, still life,
and perspective. Art history is investigated to inspire your artworks through visual references, films, and classroom
discussions.
210902 DRAWING II
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Can be retaken for credit
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Introduction to Studio Arts and Drawing I. Successful completion of Drawing I with a
“C” or better.
This course will expand on your technical and creative skills acquired in Drawing I. Projects will have an emphasis on
drawing from direct observation, challenging still life, and the figure. You will have the opportunity to develop your own
individualized art concepts. Explore diverse drawing media using a variety of artistic techniques to create a series of
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drawings. A range of Contemporary, Historical, and Cultural Art References will be presented throughout this semester's
course. Students taking this course again for credit must have received a “B” or better.
210903 PAINTING I
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Time Management, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Prerequisite: successful completion of Introduction to Studio Arts or Mixed Media. Students who have chosen a career
pathway in fine arts should plan to take this course early to advance.
Have you always wanted to learn how to paint? Learn painting fundamentals and begin to build your portfolio. Students
taking this course will have a chance to paint with watercolor and acrylics to develop their creative skills and knowledge of
color theory. Still Life, Landscape, and Personal Interest Projects will be the subject of this project-based class. The design
process of your paintings will be emphasized to help you create successful compositions. The history of art including the
painting styles and techniques of various artists and cultures will be reflected upon.
210904 PAINTING II
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Can be retaken for credit
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Time Management, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Prerequisite: successful completion of Introduction to Studio Arts and Painting I. Students enrolled in this course should be
serious about pursuing a career in the fine arts. Successful completion of Painting I with a “C” or better.
In Painting I, we just scratched the surface. Building on your previous knowledge of color theory and basic technical skills,
Painting II will be the perfect place for you to explore new ways to apply paint and layer textures. Glazing in layers, Plein Air
Impressions, and oil painting techniques will be included in this course. Larger canvases and longer project time will offer
you ways to stretch out and reach heightened levels of your artistic capability. Through your painting, you will hone in on
the personalized artistic vision. Class critique discussions and deeper exploration of the conceptual meaning of your artwork
will be important aspects of how you grow as an artist. Students taking this course again for credit must have received a “B”
or better.
210905 PRINTMAKING
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Can be retaken for credit
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
This course introduces students to a number of creative printmaking processes, each with their own unique blend of
results. Printmaking is suitable for students of all levels of experience who enjoy experimenting with tactile methods of
making art. Design and create custom t-shirts using the screen printing process. Venture into the rich history of
printmaking, discover art from modern-day printmakers and discover your own creative voice. In addition to the screen
print, create monoprints, linoleum block prints, Sun Prints, and Collograph prints. Gain and apply an understanding of
composition, color theory, and art criticism. Students taking this course again for credit must have received a “B” or better
in the first course.
210924 MIXED MEDIA
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Rising to the Challenge, Problem-Solving Skills, Resilience
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Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Mixed Media is a class where students will explore the combined use of a variety of art materials used in drawing, painting,
collage, and assemblage creation. Students will discover skills and techniques in these materials to create their own two-
and/or three-dimensional works of art. Students are encouraged to creatively combine these materials and techniques to
create artwork that explores perceptual as well as conceptual issues and ideas.
210926 VISUAL STORYTELLING, CARTOONING, AND STORYBOARD
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Rising to the Challenge, Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
Visual Storytelling combines unique aspects of creative writing and creation of original visual images to tell engaging stories.
The student taking this course may be an artist but does not need to be. By combining the best of both these aspects
through individual exploration, teamwork, collaboration, and the sharing of ideas and talents, we will create and produce
our work. Students will be exploring and creating work inspired by various forms of comic strips, comic books,
storyboarding, storytelling through art history, and children’s books/storybooks.
210960 PORTFOLIO PREPARATION
Semester 0.5 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Initiative, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Critical Thinking, Communication, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Prerequisite: Juniors should take this course in the Spring semester then again if needed. Seniors will need to take this course
in the Fall semester in order to meet college application deadlines. Prerequisite: Pathways for Painting/Drawing, Ceramics,
and Graphic Design Students: a minimum of a B in both Introduction to Studio Arts and Drawing I and II or Ceramics I and II
or Graphic Design I and II. This course may be taken twice.
If you want to be prepared to apply for Art College or a Career in the Arts, this course will help you! This course will help
you to edit, refine and develop a portfolio of your recent artwork. A personal portfolio is a critical part of the application
process for most post-secondary fine art institutions. Art projects will be based on observational drawing, still life,
portraiture, and architecture. Individualized goals and requirements will be established to meet each student’s needs.
Conceptual artwork in your favorite media is also encouraged to reflect unique identity, style, and interests. Group
discussions about your work and critiques will help you to speak about, write about, and refine your artwork so that you
can feel prepared for portfolio reviews.
Studio Arts: 3-Dimensional Art
210920 3D ART
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Teamwork Skills, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
During this course, students will explore a variety of traditional and contemporary sculpture materials and processes.
Students will discuss and create various forms of 3-D art, through various historical, cultural, and career-oriented lenses.
Assignments may include but are not limited to abstract sculpture, conceptual art installation, and architectural model
making. Idea development, project planning, and problem-solving are encouraged through daily work and classroom
critiques.
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210930 CERAMICS I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Time Management, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Ceramics is an entry-level course focusing on the design and production of clay projects. This course provides instruction in
a variety of hand-building and surface decoration techniques to create creative and individualized works. Students will
explore various surface decoration techniques to finalize projects including texturizing, glazing, and hand-painting.
210931 JEWELRY AND METALSMITHING I
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
This course is an introduction to traditional and contemporary methods of creating jewelry using metalsmithing techniques.
Through practicing skills of annealing, soldering, filing, sanding, and polishing techniques students will design and create
their own jewelry. Designs will be created through the manipulation of copper, brass, sterling silver, and/or alternative
materials.
10932 WEARABLE ART
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Time Management, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Art as if it functions in our daily lives takes many forms. Fashion or wearable accessories including hats, shoes, eyewear,
wallets, bags, and jewelry serve us every day in a variety of ways. In creating wearable art, artists must take into
consideration its purpose and conformity to the human figure and lifestyles. You will have the opportunity to create
projects centered around designing and making wearable artwork. Presentations and individualized guided learning will
familiarize you with construction techniques using a wide range of materials. Expand your creative ability through
invention, and practice sustainable art-making through the use of repurposed and recycled materials. Contemporary Artists,
Hat Makers, Fashion Designers as well as time-honored textile sewing techniques will inspire your creations.
210933 CERAMICS II
Can be retaken for credit
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Time Management, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Prerequisite: successful completion of 210930 with a minimum of a C or better
Ceramics II is an advanced course that focuses on a variety of new and alternative ways to produce clay projects. Students
will experiment with and explore new processes while balancing and building on techniques learned from prior classes. The
class will focus on student exploration of concepts to build creative thought and problem-solving.
210934 ADVANCED CERAMICS: WHEEL THROWING
Course can be retaken for credit. Course can be taken freshman year in the spring if student has taken Ceramics I in the fall.
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Time Management, Attention to Detail
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
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During this advanced course, students will be introduced to the fundamentals of wheel-throwing through the exploration
and practice of materials and techniques. Projects will be created through experimentality on the wheel and completed
through handbuilding, deconstruction, and glazing techniques. Problem solving, perseverance, and work ethic will be
encouraged for daily work and assignments.
210935 JEWELRY AND METALSMITHING II
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills:
Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Time Management
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Prerequisite: successful completion of 210931 (Jewelry and Metalsmithing) with a minimum of a C or better
This advanced course builds on the skills students have developed in Jewelry and Metalsmithing I, to explore new ways of
creating and designing jewelry. Students will be given the opportunity to master new skills, and experience new kinds of
materials in the artistic medium of jewelry and metalsmithing. Projects will allow for practice of these skills and creative
choice as students challenge their problem solving skills, perseverance, and work ethic.
Studio Arts: Digital Art
210911 DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Can be retaken for credit
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Taking Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
This is an entry-level course for students interested in learning the basics of photography using digital cameras and the
computer or “digital darkroom”. Students will develop technological as well as conceptual skills to make successful black-
and-white and color images. Students will use Adobe Photoshop and Adobe Lightroom for post-production work. Course
projects will address lighting, composition, and a variety of photographic techniques and subject matter. It is mandatory
that students demonstrate responsibility and maturity in content and equipment operation to continue in the program.
210921 GRAPHIC DESIGN I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Time Management, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
Every advertisement, logo, bumper sticker, and t-shirt design we see have been created to influence us. Students in this
course will learn how to recognize messages in graphic design and analyze their effects on our behavior. Students will learn
to produce designs for publication using Adobe Photoshop and InDesign software. Assignments are centered on the
advertising field including, but not limited to, logo design, movie posters, and advertising campaigns. Compositional layout,
typography, and the image will be emphasized in digital designs.
210922 GRAPHIC DESIGN II
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Time Management, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
Prerequisite: successful completion of Graphic Design I.
Building on visual communication skills learned in Graphic Design I, students will create artwork centered around the
aesthetic and creative disciplines of digital art. Students will have the opportunity to create original artwork in Adobe
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Photoshop and InDesign. Multi-application assignments will be used to refine and expand their design and presentation
skills. Students will have the opportunity to explore commercial and conceptual digital arts through independent projects
and community outreach.
210923 ANIMATION
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Can be retaken for credit
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Time Management, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Resilience
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
Prerequisite: Successful completion of Graphic Design I or Adobe Illustrator.
Film and television are continuing to expand beyond the moving picture into the art of animation and computer graphics.
This course will introduce students to Adobe Animate and moving graphic images. Students will create digital art and
original characters for use in their own animated shorts. The finished product will be multimedia videos that the student
may include in their portfolio if they wish to pursue a career in the digital arts.
210925 ADOBE ILLUSTRATOR
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Can be retaken for credit
Top 3 Skills: Creativity, Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Communication Arts
This course will introduce you to Adobe Illustrator’s interface, workspace, tools, and techniques. Enjoy working on the
computer and using the creative side of your brain? Adobe Illustrator is for you. Experience in Adobe Illustrator can increase
your marketability as an artist and/or graphic designer in various fields such as editorial, advertising, fine art, fashion,
textiles, and product design. Gain and apply an understanding of composition, color theory, and art criticism to digital
designs.
Arts Appreciation
210940 ARTS, MUSIC, AND CULTURE
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork, Problem Solving, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Resilience
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, Communication
Career Cluster: Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Communication Arts
Do you have an interest in creating visual artworks or music compositions? Have you wondered about how art and music
influence culture, society, and ourselves? This course offers students, regardless of previous experience, the opportunity to
engage in critical thinking and creative projects in the performing and visual arts. Students explore and learn about being
creators of art and music through critical thinking and creativity. We make connections with historical and contemporary
artists and musicians. We create original art and compositions with varying forms of inspiration and cultural influences. We
examine various art forms through the lens of identity, expression, storytelling, impact, and reaction. The course culminates
in a unique student exhibition/performance at the end of each semester.
210950 *AP ART HISTORY
Year 1.0 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
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This course reflects a college-level introductory art history survey course and will prepare students for the advanced
placement exam in Art History. Course instruction is designed to provide an understanding of various art forms from all
geographical areas of the known world. Students will critically analyze the major forms of art from past and present
cultures by analyzing the visual form, the contextual history, the content of the work, and the function of the work.
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FAMILY & CONSUMER SCIENCES COURSE
PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of Family & Consumer Sciences courses.
Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
Family & Consumer Sciences
Grade
Human Services/
Personal Growth
Visual Arts/
Creative Expression
Food Science and Nutrition
9th -10th
Life & School
9th -12th
Child Development
Housing and Design
Textiles and Clothing I
Textile and Clothing II
1
Baking
Everyday Food
10th-12th
Food and Cultures
Sports Nutrition and Wellness
11th-12th
Life & Independence
Please see the course planning guide about the prerequisite courses required.
¹Requires a prerequisite course to take the advanced level.
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FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES
211000 LIFE AND SCHOOL
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Rising to the Challenge, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Human Services
Career Cluster: Counseling and Personal Care
Through a significant number of blended experiences, you will develop skills to help you navigate the school experience.
You will learn about your strengths, learning styles, and personality and how these relate to your life and possible career
choices. Other topics include communication and peer relationships, understanding consumer rights and responsibilities,
and how nutrition is important to health, wellness, and learning in school.
211001 LIFE AND INDEPENDENCE
Semester 0.5 credit 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Initiative, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Human Services
Career Cluster: Counseling and Personal Care
Through a significant number of blended experiences, this course will help to develop clear goals and objectives for
successfully completing high school and preparing you for living and working in today’s world. You will learn to build strong
transferable employee skills, and balance personal, educational, and career responsibilities. You will learn to gain
knowledge of how to balance personal income, manage future finances, and develop wise consumer strategies.
211004 CHILD DEVELOPMENT
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Writing Skills, Teamwork Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Literacy, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Human Services
Career Cluster: Education
What does it take to be a great caregiver? It is the hardest job one could ever have and the most rewarding. It takes
readiness, commitment, nurturing, and love. Experience what it is like to be the parent of a newborn baby. Our
computerized babies need to be fed, burped, rocked, and diapered. Learn how to help children develop physically,
intellectually, emotionally, and socially. This is an excellent class for those interested in careers in teaching, health, or
human services or anyone who plans to be a parent someday.
211005 HOUSING AND DESIGN
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Initiative, Attention to Detail
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Leadership, Accountability
Career Pathway: Science Technology Engineering and Math
Career Cluster: Construction and Architecture
You will learn what makes up a community. What is zoning? What are the advantages and disadvantages of renting or
buying housing? How is housing acquired? What are the different types of housing? How do you tell one style of house
from another? You will learn how a house is constructed. Through various projects, you will create living spaces that meet
the needs of individuals or families. You will draw floor plans, create space plans, select furniture, fabrics, lighting, and
accessories, and determine a color palette for your design. Take this class if you are interested in a career in construction,
architecture, design, or real estate.
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211006 TEXTILES AND CLOTHING I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Time Management, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
In this class, you will learn to operate a sewing machine and use a commercial pattern to create a garment you can wear.
You will learn valuable sewing skills such as how to sew on a button and hem by hand. Learn about different fibers that are
made into yarns and threads which are then made into different fabrics that are either woven or knitted. Create original
fashion designs on croquis (pre-drawn figures). If you have an interest in a career in fashion design or merchandising, textile
design, tailoring, or just want to be able to make your own clothes, this class is for you. Each student must provide his/her
own material for the class.
211007 TEXTILE AND CLOTHING II
211008 TEXTILE AND CLOTHING II
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Time Management, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Core Knowledge, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Visual Arts
Prerequisite: Grade of C or better in Textiles and Clothing I.
This course is intended for students with a desire to learn about fashion history and current fashion trends. Students will
advance their knowledge of fabric use and clothing construction. Learning activities will include hands-on experience using
more advanced fabric and construction techniques. It will prepare those students interested in a career in Fashion and
Fashion Design, Fashion Merchandising, Retail Management, Tailoring, or Textile Science.
211020 BAKING
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Health Services
Career Cluster: Agriculture Food and Natural Resources
Experience in food preparation encourages lifelong success and pleasure in cooking and eating. Plan, prepare, and evaluate
bakery food products—egg foam and milk-based desserts, quick breads, yeast breads, pies, cakes, and cookies. In addition
to practical lab experiences, you will use classroom reference materials to understand and reinforce the theories of various
food preparation activities. Learning activities also include videotaped and real-life demonstrations. Elect Baking if you are
planning a career in the food service industry, restaurants, or bakeries.
211021 EVERYDAY FOODS
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Health Services
Career Cluster: Agriculture Food and Natural Resources
Discover the many different ways food can be prepared for optimal health and enjoyment. Plan weekly food preparation
activities by selecting recipes for grains, vegetables, fruits, dairy products, and meat dishes. The course content includes an
exploration of the dietary guidelines in addition to daily food intake planning. Elect this course if you are considering a
career in food service or nutrition-related fields.
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211022 SPORTS NUTRITION AND WELLNESS
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Health Services
Career Cluster: Agriculture Food and Natural Resources
Want to feel and perform your best? Not just for athletes, Sports Nutrition will provide students with the knowledge
needed to construct individualized approaches to nutrition for all levels of performance by learning to use food as fuel.
Students will learn about the importance of eating the correct proportions of nutrients, the timing of meals, as well as the
importance of snacks and hydration. Students will learn to prepare a variety of foods to improve performance and promote
physical and emotional wellness.
211023 FOOD AND CULTURES
Semester 0.5 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Health Services
Career Cluster: Agriculture Food and Natural Resources
Would you like to prepare and sample a wide variety of appetizing foods as you learn to appreciate the cultures of other
countries and ethnic groups? Are you interested in health and wellness? Food and Cultures is a course designed for you. It
will be valuable to you if you are considering a career in social work, international business, nutrition, or the food service
industry. There will be a significant number of blended experiences offered throughout this course.
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MUSIC COURSE PROGRESSION
The following diagram shows the typical progression of Music courses.
Movement between progressions occurs and all possibilities are not represented.
Music
Grade
Ensemble Courses
Non-Ensemble Courses
Music Theory
Extracurricular
Opportunities
9th-12th
Bel Canto Treble Choir
Concert Band
Concert Choir Mixed
Ensemble
String Orchestra
Guitar Fundamentals
Piano Fundamentals
Music Theory
Choral:
Armonia Treble Ensemble
Tenor-Bass Ensemble
Instrumental:
Chamber Ensemble
Full Orchestra
(audition based for
woodwinds, brass, and
percussion)
Indoor Percussion
Jazz Band
Marching Band
Musical Pit Orchestra
10th-12th
Avon Grove Chorale¹
AP Music Theory¹
Please see the course planning guide about the prerequisite courses required.
¹Requires a prerequisite course to take the advanced level.
MUSIC
212000 CONCERT BAND
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
Prerequisite: Must play a band instrument. Incoming freshmen, and newcomers must pass an entrance audition.
The Concert Band is open to those students who have attained a minimal high school level of proficiency on their
instrument as determined by the entrance audition. Students in Concert Band, combined with those in Wind Ensemble, will
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comprise the Marching Band. The Marching Band begins in the spring before the new school year and performs in parades
and festivals throughout the area in the fall. The Concert Band presents public concerts at Christmas, in February, and in the
spring.
212001 WIND ENSEMBLE
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
The Wind Ensemble is a select performance group of limited instrumentation made up of the most advanced players in the
high school band program. Students in Wind Ensemble receive instruction in more advanced Wind and Percussion
techniques and perform more complex literature. Students are frequently the only ones playing their particular part and
have an increased expectation of learning their music outside of rehearsals. The Wind Ensemble presents public concerts in
the winter and spring, as well as in adjudicated performances and trips. Opportunities exist for outstanding students to
participate in PMEA District, Region, and All State events.
212020 CONCERT CHOIR
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
Prerequisite: Audition required.
The Concert Choir is open to Tenor and Bass Voice singers in grades 9-12 and Treble Voice Singers in grades 11-12. Concert
Choir will prepare and perform a variety of repertoire of different periods, styles, and languages as well as study vocal
technique, music theory, and sight singing. Performances will include the winter and spring concerts, the adjudication
festival on the Music Department spring trip, and other community performances. Students will attend a small group lesson
once or twice per month in rotation, in addition to daily rehearsals. Rehearsals and concert performances outside of the
school day are required.
212021 AVON GROVE CHORALE
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
Prerequisite: Audition required.
Students are selected for this choir based on an audition for the director and audition panel. Auditions are held in Spring for
the following school year. Mid-year transfers must wait until the end of the school year to audition for the next year.
Chorale will prepare and perform a variety of repertoire of different periods, styles, and languages as well as study more
advanced vocal technique, music theory, and sight singing. Performances include school events, the winter and spring
concerts, the adjudication festival on the Music Department spring trip, and other community performances. Students will
attend a small group lesson once or twice per month in rotation, in addition to daily rehearsals. Rehearsals and concert
performances outside of the school day are required.
212022 BEL CANTO
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Teamwork Skills, Initiative
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
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Bel Canto is open to all Treble-Voice singers in grades 9-10. Bel Canto will prepare and perform a variety of repertoire of
different periods, styles, and languages as well as study vocal technique, music theory, and sight singing. Performances will
include the winter and spring concerts, the adjudication festival on the Music Department spring trip, and other community
performances. Students will attend a small group lesson once or twice per month in rotation, in addition to daily rehearsals.
Rehearsals and concert performances outside of the school day are required.
212030 PIANO FUNDAMENTALS
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Initiative, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
Learn how to read music and play the piano! In this course, you will learn beginning music theory concepts and how to
apply that to simple piano music. Learn elements of music theory such as rhythm, melody, harmony, form, key signatures,
notation, performance, scales, pitch, dynamics, and tempo. Students will be expected to practice to achieve keyboard
proficiency and complete music theory assignments.
212031 MUSIC THEORY I
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Problem-Solving Skills, Attention to Detail, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
This course is a prerequisite for AP Music Theory. Prior to taking this course, students should have experience reading music
notation as well as instrumental or vocal performance experience. In this course, a classical approach is used to help the
student learn the basics of writing music from key signatures through simple harmonic and melodic writing. Students
planning to continue their music education in college will benefit from this course.
212033 *AP MUSIC THEORY
Year 1.0 credit 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Initiative, Problem-Solving Skills, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
Prerequisite: Completed Music Theory I with a B or higher.
This course will develop a student’s ability to recognize, understand, and describe the basic materials and processes of
music that are heard or presented in a score. The achievement of this goal will be best promoted by integrated approaches
to the student’s development of aural skills, sight-singing skills, written skills, compositional skills, and analytical skills
through listening exercises, performance exercises, written exercises, creative exercises, and analytical exercises. This
course will be very valuable to students interested in majoring or minoring in music.
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212040 STRING ORCHESTRA
Year 1.0 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork Skills, Attention to Detail, Problem-Solving Skills
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
Prerequisite: Must be able to play an orchestral string instrument (violin, viola, cello, double bass).
The String Orchestra is offered to students who have basic to advanced high school string proficiency. Students will explore
and heighten their ensemble performance practice and individual skills through the performance of various genres of music
in combination with different string techniques and exercises. The String Orchestra presents concerts in the winter and
spring and has an adjudicated performance designed for the Music Department spring trip. There are also monthly pull-out
lessons. Participation in the concerts is required; participation in the adjudication performance is optional but strongly
encouraged; participation in lessons is required. Opportunities for small ensemble performances as well as District and
Regional Competitions are available.
212063 GUITAR
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Attention to Detail, Initiative, Time Management
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Critical Thinking, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts A/V Technology and Communications
Career Cluster: Performing Arts
Students will learn to read music and understand concepts of music theory through guitar instruction. This course is
designed to provide beginning guitarists with the tools to continue their playing after the course has ended, either through
private instruction from an outside source or through self-teaching. Prior playing experience and owning a guitar are not
necessary to take the course.
210940 ARTS, MUSIC, AND CULTURE
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
Top 3 Skills: Teamwork, Problem Solving, Rising to the Challenge
Top 3 Competencies: Growth Mindset, Collaboration, Accountability
Career Pathway: Arts, A/V Technology, Communication
Career Cluster: Performing Arts, Visual Arts, Communication Arts
Do you have an interest in creating visual artworks or music compositions? Have you wondered about how art and music
influence culture, society, and ourselves? This course offers students, regardless of previous experience, the opportunity to
engage in critical thinking and creative projects in the performing and visual arts. Students explore and learn about being
creators of art and music through critical thinking and creativity. We make connections with historical and contemporary
artists and musicians. We create original art and compositions with varying forms of inspiration and cultural influences. We
examine various art forms through the lens of identity, expression, storytelling, impact, and reaction. The course culminates
in a unique student exhibition/performance at the end of each semester.
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ENGLISH LANGUAGE DEVELOPMENT
Students who speak a first language other than English are eligible for support services through the ELD program.
Participation is determined by the student’s performance on the WIDA Screener, the state-mandated English language
proficiency test. Based on the results of the WIDA Screener and the WIDA ACCESS 2.0, the subsequent yearly proficiency
test, students are placed into appropriate levels of English instruction. In these courses, students are given explicit
instruction in the four domains of language: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Students are also given the
opportunity to develop content-specific academic language to strengthen their ability to succeed in core classes. The goal of
the ELD program is for students to achieve English language proficiency as evidenced by the results of the annual WIDA
ACCESS 2.0 assessment.
213002 READING AND WRITING
Semester 0.5 credit 9,10, 11, 12
In this course, students will increase their reading, writing, speaking, listening, and thinking skills in English through
collaboration and independent work. Students will achieve PA’s Academic standards and progress toward achieving PA’s
English Proficiency standards. Students will study the 6 main types of writing: Narrative, Persuasive, Expository,
Informative, Argumentative, and Creative Writing.
213011 LIFE OF THE AMERICAN STUDENT
213012 LIFE OF THE AMERICAN STUDENT
Semester 0.5 credit 9,10, 11, 12
This course comprises 3 parts: personal growth and health, academic and scholastic success, and career and job readiness.
The goal of this course is to help newcomer students feel more invested in their learning and this country. This course
includes guest speakers, former students, community mentors, and guidance participation to support English Language
Learners. Students will experience lessons on how to do tasks needed in school like using Schoology and PowerSchool, how
to study and do homework, where to look for help online and in the resources given to them (general technological
literacy), how to prepare for life after high school (trade vs. career), and the importance of attendance, personal hygiene,
places and people in the community as resources (post office for passport photos, coupons, local food banks, shelters, thrift
shops, etc.). Time will be provided to practice these skills.
213021 INTRODUCTION TO ENGLISH
213022 INTRODUCTION TO ENGLISH
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
This course is designed for newly arrived students whose first language is not English. Students develop basic English
language skills through the four literacy domains: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Emphasis is placed on basic
vocabulary and grammar structures as well as reading comprehension strategies and developing writing skills. Extra
supports are in place for students who have limited or interrupted formal education to acquire basic literacy skills.
213031 INTRODUCTION TO ENGLISH EXTENDED
213032 INTRODUCTION TO ENGLISH EXTENDED
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
This course is an extension of the Introduction to English course. Students have the opportunity for small group reading
instruction with fiction and nonfiction text, according to reading proficiency. There are also many speaking and listening
tasks that allow students to engage in extended English conversations. Students also engage in various narrative and
informational writing projects.
213041 BEGINNING ENGLISH
213042 BEGINNING ENGLISH
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
This class is a continuation of basic communication in a student’s new language, with further listening and speaking
development from Introduction to English courses. The formal skills of writing, reading, vocabulary, and grammar will
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progress, along the lines of everyday situations, interesting contexts, and a variety of material. In this course, students will
learn how to describe people and places, ask for and give information, express needs and wants, make comparisons, and
use literature to make connections to text and grammatical features such as complete sentences, simple present tense,
present progressive tense, subject pronouns, adjectives, possessive nouns, and adjectives. Students will develop sentences
into paragraph form. The focus will be on learning grammatical structures and using this knowledge within the writing
context. Students will advance their listening, reading, speaking, and writing skills to advance through to Intermediate
English.
213061 INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH
213062 INTERMEDIATE ENGLISH
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
This course is designed to build upon and advance skills acquired in Beginning English. Students will continue to develop
their understanding of the English language through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Topics covered will include
fiction and nonfiction texts, essay writing, grammar conventions, analyzing others’ ideas and sharing their own, and working
collaboratively with their peers.
213081 ADVANCED ENGLISH
213082 ADVANCED ENGLISH
Semester 0.5 credit 9, 10, 11, 12
This course is designed to build upon and advance skills acquired in Intermediate English. Students will continue to develop
their understanding of the English language through reading, writing, listening, and speaking. Topics covered will include:
reading and analyzing fiction and nonfiction texts, writing using evidence to support claims and ideas, using appropriate
grammar and conventions when writing in English, speaking with confidence in both formal and informal settings on a
variety of topics, and listening with the intent to respond.
