FAIR School Downtown

Program of Study 2020-2021

2

Credits. Core courses (English, Math, Science, Social Studies and World Languages) meet all year. At the successful completion of the year, students earn 1.0 credits (0.25 each quarter). All other courses meet for a half year. At the successful completion of the half year, students earn 0.5 credits (0.25 each quarter). Students complete 6 credits per academic school year beginning 2020-2021. Credit Requirements

Subject Years Quarters Credits English 4 16 4 Social Studies 3.5 14 3.5 Math 3 12 3 Science 3 12 3 Physical Education 0.5 2 0.5 Health 0.5 2 0.5 Fine Arts 4 16 4 Electives 3 12 3 Total Required 21.5 Total Possible 24-28 Required Courses Grade English Math Science Social

Studies Other

9 English 9 Intermediate Algebra, or other Math course

Physical Science World Geography & Cultures, African American History

Health, Physical Education

10 English 10- World Literature

Geometry Biology World History Health, Physical Education

11 English 11- American Literature

Advanced Algebra

Physics or Chemistry

US History Health, Physical Education

12 African American Literature, Writing Workshop

Options: College Prep Algebra & Statistics*, Precalculus*

Physics or Chemistry

Economics, American Government

Health, Physical Education

Minnesota State Testing Requirements In the spring, tenth graders take the Reading MCA and eleventh graders the Math MCA. In addition, Biology students will take the Science MCA. Please see the MDE website (education.state.mn.us) for specific information regarding these assessments.

Grading System Grade Grade

Point Percent

A 4.0 93-100 A- 3.66 90-92.99 B+ 3.33 87-89.99 B 3.0 83-87.99 B- 2.66 80-82.99 C+ 2.33 78-79.99 C 2.0 73-77.99 C- 1.66 70-72.99 D+ 1.33 67-69.99 D 1.0 63-66.99 D- 0.66 60-62.99 F 0 0-59.99

3

College Planning.

Listed below are the minimum requirements for college admission. We strongly encourage students to take courses beyond these minimum requirements. Additional coursework beyond these minimums increases a student’s chances for admission. Colleges consider the rigor of high school course loads when making admission decisions. The more credits earned creates a stronger academic transcript for all subject areas. The expectations at competitive colleges are significantly higher. These colleges would expect prospective students to have challenged themselves by taking at least some advanced or enriched courses. Minimum Recommendations for College Preparation Note: While these are good guidelines, consult specific college brochures or websites for exact admissions requirements. Community

College Tradit ional Four-Year State College

Tradit ional Four-Year University

Private Four-Year College

Highly Selective Four-Year College

Minneapolis Community & Technical College

St. Cloud State University

University of Minnesota

University of St. Thomas

Harvard University

English 4 years 4 years 4 years 4 years 4 years

Math 3 years 3 years

(Algebra, Geometry, & Advanced Algebra)

3-4 years

(Algebra, Geometry, & Advanced Algebra)

3-4 years

(Algebra, Geometry, & Advanced Algebra)

4 years

(Algebra, Geometry, & Advanced Algebra)

Science 3 years 3 years

(Physical Science, Biology, & Chemistry)

3-4 years

(Physical Science, Biology, & Chemistry)

3-4 years

(Physical Science, Biology, & Chemistry)

4 years

(Physical Science, Biology, Chemistry, & Adv. Science)

Social Studies

3.5 years 3.5 years 4 years 4 years 4 years

World Language

Desirable 2 years minimum

2 years minimum

2 years minimum

4 years

Arts Desirable 1 year Varies Varies Participation Encouraged

4

Table of Contents.

Graduation requirements … 2

Grading system … 2

College Planning … 3

Table of Contents … 4

English … 5

Spoken Word, Theater, Film … 6

Math … 8

Media Arts … 9

Music … 9

Phy. Ed. & Health … 10

Science … 11

Social Studies … 12

Visual Art … 13

Spanish … 16

Career & Technical Ed … 17

Additional Options … 17

Counseling Information … 17

5

write English English 9 Required Grade Level: 9 All Year - 1 Credit English 9 sharpens the skills of reading, analysis, writing, speaking, grammar, media literacy, and higher-level thinking. Students practice their critical thinking skills while we analyze Sherman Alexie’s The Absolutely True Diary of a Part-Time Indian, Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, Angie Thomas’s The Hate U Give, and Marjane Satrapi’s Persepolis. Our goal as a department is to provide students with texts that challenge students’ literary skills and reflect our students’ diverse experience. English 10 - World Literature Required Grade Level: 10 All Year - 1 Credit World Literature builds on the skills of analysis, critical thinking, reading, writing, vocabulary, media literacy, and higher-level thinking developed in English 9. Students explore and critically analyze literature originating beyond the borders of the United States such as Shakespeare’s Othello, Chinua Achebe’s Things Fall Apart, Elie Wiesel‘s Night, Art Spiegelman’s Maus, and a free choice reading unit. Through a combination of written assignments and arts integration projects, students gain a better understanding of the world by comparing the foreign experiences in these texts to their own domestic and diverse experiences. Students continue building their foundation of formal composition and gain experience in the art of creative expression.

English 11 - American Literature Required Grade Level: 11 All Year - 1 Credit American Literature utilizes reading, writing, speaking, and media skills to critically and creatively think about literature from across the United States. Students analyze and create connections between texts such as Tim O’Brien’s The Things They Carried, Zora Neale Hurston’s Their Eyes Were Watching God, and Octavia Butler’s Kindred. Through the use of critical theories, students deconstruct literature from multiple perspectives, exploring the impact of American History on literature and culture, students focus on ideas including race, gender, class, and history. Students also focus on organization, voice, word choice, and fluency for expository and creative pieces. African-American Literature Required Grade Level: 12 Semester - .5 Credits African-American Literature explores themes surrounding heritage, culture, race, identity, privilege, and institutional racism and serves as a student’s culminating conversation on equity. Possible works include Douglass’ A Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, Wilson’s The Piano Lesson, Haley’s The Autobiography of Malcolm X, and Beal’s Warriors Don’t Cry in addition to a variety of poems, spirituals, short stories, and films. These works provide the context for post-secondary level assignments in writing, discussing and presenting personal opinions concluding with a capstone symposium project for all students Writing Workshop Required Grade Level: 12 Semester - .5 Credits Writing Workshop concentrates on communicating concise, powerful, and articulate ideas through creative and expository essays in preparation for college applications. At the beginning of the semester, students will analyze, review and craft effective and unique college application essays. Additional possible essay styles

6

include descriptive, narrative, persuasive, comparison/contrast, analogy, research, and analysis. Students expand their vocabulary and grammar skills for sentence variety and fluency, while current events and personal experiences support relevant and useful thesis statements. Guided and independent writing time and small group drafting, editing and proofreading conferences lead to a digital portfolio of student work. Yearbook & Newspaper Grade Levels: 9-12 All Year - 1 Credit This class introduces students to a running a publication. The staff will create monthly and yearly publications that highlight student creativity, ideas, opinions, news and events, and will learn how to compose work for a student audience. Their yearbook and newspapers are designed under a strict budget, and in doing so, students are required to work cooperatively in order to meet deadlines. Each staff member plays an important role in the overall outcome of the publications. Leadership roles are designed as incentives for seniority and for those who have shown a willingness and desire to go above and beyond what is required. Students will ultimately be responsible for the success of their publications and the way in which FAIR School Downtown is represented. It should be the goal of each student to produce a high quality product that they can be proud of. Units of study include teamwork, responsibility, brainstorming, content, coverage, concept, reporting, writing, headlines, captions, editing, photography, typography, design, graphics, finances, yearbook campaigns, advertising and distribution.

represent Spoken Word, Theater, Film Film Studies Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Film Studies focuses on the creative, technical and theatrical components of filmmaking. Students learn the artistry of film through the analysis of cinema past and present. Analytical discussion, and film reviews accompany students as they follow the century-long evolution of the medium, and create films of their own. Spoken Word 1 & 2 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Spoken Word focuses on the development and delivery of artistic, descriptive, and thoughtful word performance. To understand the history of the art form, students examine the work of others through a critical lens and discuss the social, political, personal and economic issues that surface. Students utilize rhyme, rhythm, and repetition to create their own work and develop theatre skills to perform it. Written compositions are practiced orally in preparation for performances throughout the year. Play: Technical (Theatre Production 1) Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Gain real life experience working on the behind-the-scenes side of theater. You will have the opportunity to work with a professional set designer, costume designer, sound designer, stage manager, and director, learning the skills to support full-length theatrical production. Watch your ideas and vision manifest on stages as a part of our Spring semester play!

7

Must be available to stay after school for the week of tech rehearsals and performance. Dates TBD Play: Performance (Performance Theatre 1) Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Are you ready to step on the stage and show FAIRNATION your talent? Let your star shine and join the cast of our Spring semester play! You will learn ensemble building, auditioning, character development, and rehearsal strategies all in preparation for performing in a full-length play. All levels of experience are welcome. A part is waiting for you! Must be available to stay after school for the week of tech rehearsals and performance. Dates TBD. Performance Theatre 2 / Acting 2 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Performance Theatre 2 delves into advanced movement techniques, unique acting styles, and meaningful ensemble work. Each year, students explore a different advanced performance philosophy, such as Viewpoints or French clowning, creating opportunities to really stretch as an actor. Students take these new understandings to scripted work and end by creating a full ensemble original production. This class can be taken again and again, with a new experience each time. Background Knowledge Needed from: Performance Theatre 1 or prior theatre study Musical Theatre - Triple Threat Theatre Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester-.5 Credits Using material from contemporary musical theatre (like The Wiz, Dreamgirls, Hamilton, In the Heights, Wicked, and more), this class enables young artists to explore challenging, socially relevant material from the contemporary musical theatre world as they receive the voice, movement and acting training in a safe, group

setting. Class is open to experienced performers as well as those new to the craft. While the emphasis is on performance, students will also receive training in a wide variety of musical theatre disciplines during the rehearsal process, including: acting a song, proper breathing technique, movement, building a character, ensemble acting, and more. Acting for Film Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Television, movies, Netflix, and YouTube are all successful because of the talent that fills their screens. In this class we will develop young actors skills when working in front of the camera. The students will: perform on-camera acting exercises, sharpen skills take after take, receive individual feedback on work, learn about close-ups, continuity and auditioning, take their first step toward the silver screen, develop your film acting technique, create and build relationships. Dance 1 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits This semester course is open to any 9th-12th grade student and has a concentration in movement fundamentals through the dance elements of time, space, and energy. The intent is to give students an awareness and reverence for the physical body and its athletic and expressive capabilities. Students experience these elements through a variety of genres including modern dance, swing dance, hip hop, African, and ballet. Introductory elements of dane choreography and performance are also included.

8

calculate Mathematics Intermediate Algebra Required Grade Level: 9 All Year - 1 Credit Intermediate Algebra further develops the concepts of basic algebra. Intermediate algebra topics include, but are not limited to: statistics, inequalities, linear functions, quadratic functions, systems of equations, and exponential functions. Modeling and problem solving will be introduced throughout the course. Geometry Required Grade Level: 10 All Year - 1 Credit The purpose of this course in Geometry is to formalize and extend students’ geometric experiences from previous grades. Students will explore more complex geometric situations and deepen their explanations of geometric relationships, moving toward formal mathematical arguments. Students will explore the use of equations to describe relationships, inductive and deductive reasoning, congruence, coordinates, right triangle trigonometry, and measurement ideas (including area and volume). Students will learn through a variety of methods, such as Google SketchUp, traditional construction tools, and projects to create real world applications of the concepts discovered in this course. Advanced Algebra Grade Levels: 11-12 All Year - 1 Credit Advanced Algebra is a continuation of Intermediate Algebra. Students will build on their knowledge of linear, quadratic, and exponential functions, and will study new functions including polynomial, rational, and logarithmic functions. Students will work closely with the expressions

that define the functions and continue to expand and hone their abilities to model situations and to solve equations and inequalities, including solving quadratic equations over the set of complex numbers and solving exponential equations using logarithms. In addition, students engage in rigorous academic activities in preparation for college entrance exams and field applications. This course meets entrance requirements for university admission and prepares students for Trigonometry/College Algebra and Pre- Calculus. Background Knowledge Needed from: Geometry, Intermediate Algebra College Prep Algebra & Statistics Grade Levels: 11-12 All Year - 1 Credit College Prep Algebra & Statistics review major concepts from Algebra courses in preparation for college level Algebra. Statistics are reviewed as well including collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data with the addition of use of technology for analysis purposes. Background Knowledge Needed from: Advanced Algebra Pre-Calculus Grade Levels: 11-12 All Year - 1 Credit Pre-Calculus topics include function notation and transformations along with the properties and graphs of the following functions: polynomial, rational, power, exponential, logistic, and logarithmic. As part of this course, students learn the fundamental concepts of algebra and understand the properties of different functions. They know the graphs of different functions and their properties while being aware of the varied applications of Pre-Calculus. Trigonometry fundamentals include but are not limited to: unit circle, trigonometric properties and graphing trig functions. Background Knowledge Needed from: Advanced Algebra

9

Calculus Grade Level: 12 All Year - 1 Credit Calculus is the crowning achievement of 17th century mathematics. It is the branch of mathematics used to describe motion, and it has a multitude of applications in mathematics, the physical sciences, engineering, and the social and biological sciences. The major concepts studied are functions and limits, derivative, applications of the derivative, integral, and transcendental functions. Background Knowledge Needed from: Pre-Calculus

capture Media Arts

Media Arts 1 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Media Arts 1 provides opportunities to analyze, create, interpret, and reflect on works of media, including graphic design, audio recording, photography, video, animation, and digital imagery. Students intentionally apply Elements of Art, Principles of Design, and Elements of Media Arts to communicate their ideas, thoughts, and understanding of concepts through writing and multimedia work. Through the creation of multimedia, they continue to build skills in a variety of software programs. Media/Video Arts 2 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Media/Video Arts 2 adds on to the skills and concepts learned in Media 1 and provides continued opportunities to create, describe, analyze, interpret, and evaluate media arts work. Students develop design skills while utilizing Adobe Creative Suites. In addition, students continue to develop their understanding of the

Elements of Media Arts through video, photography, and digital imagery production. Students are introduced to various careers in media arts including job descriptions, salary ranges, required education and work experience. Background Knowledge Needed from: Media Arts 1 Advanced Media & Video Arts Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Advanced Media & Video Arts continue the fundamentals by further developing an artistic point of view and style. Students analyze, create, interpret, and reflect on works of media, including photography, video, and digital imagery. Guided by individual interests, students intentionally apply Elements of Art, Principles of Design, and Elements of Media Arts to communicate their ideas, thoughts, and understanding of concepts through writing and multimedia work. In addition, students work towards creating a portfolio of quality work, as well participate in authentic experiences such as visiting Artists, workshops, and portfolio reviews by College admissions representatives. Background Knowledge Needed from: Media Arts 1 & 2

make Music Concert Band Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits or All Year - 1 Credit (All Year Encouraged) Concert Band emphasizes the development of ensemble playing through the performance of various types of music, such as jazz, popular, classical and concert band music. Skills are advanced as students study technique and musical elements, perform in large and small ensembles, and participate in solo study. Students

10

have the opportunity to explore different band instruments other than their primary instrument. Prior band experience is strongly encouraged. This course may be repeated for credit. Preferred Background Knowledge from: Prior Band experience Combo Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Combo allows students to form musical combos to explore various styles such as jazz, pop, and classical music. Combos are selected through student choice and/or instructor assignments. Improvisation is encouraged and previous musical experience is necessary. Guitarists and bassists are welcome. Preferred Background Knowledge: Plays a musical instrument Percussion Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits This group class is designed to engage students through percussion music. This course teaches students to play a variety of drums and other percussion instruments through reading music and composing original pieces. No prior musical experience is necessary. This course may be repeated for credit. Piano/Keyboarding Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits or All Year - 1 Credit Piano/Keyboarding is tailored to a student’s previous musical experience and open to all musical levels. Beginners learn to read music and play the keyboard, while Intermediate and Advanced students continue piano study. Possible areas of focus are composition, improvisation, and performance. Students may take Piano/Keyboarding for one or two semesters.

Concert Choir Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits or All Year - 1 Credit (All Year Encouraged) Concert Choir covers the spectrum of choral music repertoire including gospel, spiritual, folk and art songs, pop, vocal jazz, and a cappella selections. In rehearsal, singers learn healthy vocal technique, how to sing musically with an ensemble, and how to perform with confidence. The Concert Choir participates in school performances and throughout the Twin Cities community. This course can be repeated for credit. Pop Choir Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits or All Year - 1 Credit Pop Choir combines a mixture of contemporary pop hits, jazz and musical theater standards, and well-known music from TV and film. Students integrate music with choreography and movement to create dynamic performance pieces to showcase at the end of the semester. A great option for both new and experienced singers! This course can be repeated for credit.

exercise Physical Education & Health Fitness for Life (online) Grade Levels: 9-12 (0.5 credit required) Semester - .5 Credits Fitness for Life invites students to explore the basics of personal fitness by establishing a workout routine while learning about the physical basis of fitness. This is an online course in which students log workouts completed at home, outside, the Downtown YMCA, or another venue of their choice. Students improve overall body strength and cardiovascular endurance as well as design and implement an ongoing fitness plan. This course may be repeated for credit.

11

Health (possibly online) Grade Levels: 9-12 (0.5 credit required) Semester - .5 Credits Health develops the knowledge and skills needed to pursue a healthful lifestyle. Five dimensions of health (mental, physical, emotional, intellectual and social) are the focus as students examine conflict resolution, injury prevention, alcohol and other drugs, community and environmental health, family health and sexuality, mental and emotional health, nutrition, personal and consumer health, and physical activity.

experiment Science Physical Science Required Grade Level: 9 All Year - 1 Credit Physical Science is a course that is required for graduation and consists of two semesters. The purpose of the course is to extend the student’s ability to conduct inquiry, develop explanations based on evidence and to expand understanding of the nature of science. The course is designed to develop a basic overview of physics (the study of how matter behaves) and chemistry (the study of the composition of matter) as well as astronomy (the study of the universe). Skills that are taught or reinforced include use of the scientific method, critical thinking, making simple calculations, comparing and contrasting, relating cause and effect, and using basic laboratory equipment. This course will build fundamental knowledge and skills used future high school science classes. Biology Required Grade Level: 10 All Year - 1 Credit Biology, the study of life, focuses on how living things work, interact, and change. The major units

include the nature of science, the cell and its functions, ecology, genetics, evolution, and human body systems. Students will expand their critical thinking, data analysis skills, and understanding of life processes as they complete inquiry projects and experiments. Chemistry Grade Level: 11-12 All Year - 1 Credit Chemistry, the study of matter, focuses on what matter is, how matter interacts with other matter, as well as energy. The curriculum includes history of science, matter and energy, atomic structure and electron configuration, the periodic table, chemical bonding, reactions and equilibrium, stoichiometry, and states of matter and nuclear chemistry. Chemistry builds on the basic lab skills with an emphasis on lab safety and experimental design. Physics Semester 2 Grade Level: 11-12 Semester - .5 Credits Semester 1 of Physics is an introductory course which provides an overview of topics which include, but are not limited to motion, forces, and energy. Practical applications are emphasized in a conceptual approach as well as frequent laboratory experiences. Physics Semester 2 Grade Level: 11-12 Semester - .5 Credits Semester 2 of Physics includes the topics of electricity, magnetism, waves, sound, and light. The emphasis is on problem solving using higher mathematical models. Environmental Studies Grade Levels: 11-12 Semester - .5 Credits Environmental studies is a semester long project- and participation-based interdisciplinary upper level science elective in which students examine

12

the problems and solutions of our environment. We will study global climate change, environmental effects of modern agriculture, and energy. All students are required to complete an interdisciplinary final project that they will present to our FAIR community. Students will practice skills related to community outreach, research, public speaking, data analysis, environmental stewardship, discussion, debate, and academic writing.

explore Social Studies World Geography & Cultures Required Grade Level: 9 Semester - .5 Credits Geography prepares students to live in an increasingly diverse and globalized world. Students build cultural capacity by engaging in courageous conversations, examining their own perspectives, and listening to the perspectives of others. Students study the role that geography, culture, technology, politics and economic systems have in the 21st century while developing their understanding of global citizenship. Students work collaboratively to research, investigate, and develop sustainable solutions to current global issues and present their findings in a formal presentation. African American History Required Grade Level: 9 Semester - .5 Credits In this course, students explore African American history and culture through the lens of historical sociology and critical studies. The course lifts up the voices and perspectives of African Americans to tell their own his-stories and her-stories by utilizing engaging texts, multimedia resources and critical dialogue. The lesser known stories of everyday resistance and momentous struggles for citizenship and democracy are examined. Below are the course learning objectives:

• Provide an introduction to African American history, including local histories;

• Explore why African Americans have occupied an oppressed position in the US and how they have resisted and created movements for social change and democracy;

• Examine changes over time and employ sociological, economic, cultural, and political tools for understanding the historical and contemporary circumstances of African American communities;

• Consider how social constructs such as race, gender and class shape the lives of African Americans.

World History Required Grade Level: 10 All Year - 1 Credit World History develops a greater understanding of, and an appreciation for, the events, people and patterns that make up the history of the world. Students examine periods of continuity and change through history to uncover and better understand how we have ended up where we are. Students analyze the processes, patterns, and people that have shaped the world from prehistory to the present. Five themes guide student learning: • Interaction between humans and the

environment • Development and interaction of cultures • State-building, expansion, and conflict • Creation, expansion, and interaction of

economic systems • Development and transformation of social

structures US History Required Grade Level: 11 All Year - 1 Credit US History delves into the events, people, and patterns that make up our history. Students examine how the events have shaped us into the cultures and people we are today. They listen to and learn from each other’s stories and place these stories within the larger narrative of

13

American history. Students develop strong analytical and critical skills, examine events through multiple racial, cultural, and artistic lenses, while also becoming critical consumers of history. Themes used to focus discussions and analysis are American diversity, American identity, culture, demographic changes, economic trans- formations, environment, globalization, politics & citizenship, reform, religion, slavery & its legacies, and war & diplomacy. Economics Required Grade Level: 12 Semester - .5 Credits Economics examines the principles and theories of micro and macro economics, including supply and demand, markets, the public sector, the labor force, economic development and globalization. Students apply these principles to the problems and conditions of the individual, businesses, and the larger economy. Through a variety of perspectives and lenses students explore the relationship between the government and economics, while also examining the United States’ role in the global economy. US Government Required Grade Level: 12 Semester - .5 Credits US Government critically examines the policies, trends, movements, and issues that formed and continue to form our country. Careful attention is given to the understanding of political ideals, parties, and interest groups. Students delve into current politics, including the role, structure, and history of the government. While examining the foundation of Civil Liberties and Civil Rights, students explore the current conditions and reality of American society.

create Visual Art All visual arts classes: • Create works of art • Reflect upon the outcomes of those experiences • Explore historical connections • Write about the process • Work individually and with other classmates • Find a direct correlation to other disciplines • Explore career options in the field of fine arts • Practice presenting and displaying artwork • Participate in Critiques, feedback sessions, and group discussions • Develop a portfolio of original art work Students are encouraged to utilize museums, galleries, studios, technology, Internet, and community resources while exploring historical and contemporary artists and works of art. Beginning Drawing Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Beginning Drawing develops skill, knowledge, visual observation and appreciation of art. Exercises include but are not limited to; still-life renderings, figure drawing introduction, exploration of texture and line, Shading, and perspective technique development. Students engage in regular critiques and discussions about completed or works in progress, as well as confer about current art events. Students use a variety of media (pencil, pen and ink, pastels, colored pencils, charcoal, assorted varieties of paper, and oil pastels) to create a foundation for all Advanced Drawing and Painting courses and is a requirement for other Visual Arts courses Beginning Drawing or prior drawing study is a prerequisite for all subsequent visual arts courses

14

Drawing 2 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Drawing 2 Students learn to apply skills learned in Drawing 1 through exploring deeper art concepts and developing original content. Working from observation and the various skills of life drawing are taught as well as exploring mixed media, personal expression, and Art making trends in Art History. Students build a portfolio of drawings using a variety of media and techniques while exploring historical and contemporary artists. How to present and display your Art are taught, as well as how to critique your own, and others Art work. Students will be provided with opportunities to present their portfolio’s to professional Artists, and or Collage admission representatives. Background Knowledge Needed from: Beginning Drawing or prior drawing study Drawing 3 Grade Levels: 10-12 Semester - .5 Credits Drawing 3 continues to build on the skills, knowledge and concepts of Beginning Drawing and Drawing 2. Students work independently exploring concepts and ideas that have personal interest to them. Students continue to use the language of art as well as build connections to historical concepts past and present. Students improve their skills of speaking and writing critically and reflectively about their work. Students continue to develop skills in presenting, displaying, and critiquing works of Art. An emphasis is placed on portfolio development as well as investigation of postsecondary Art options and professional opportunities. Background Knowledge Needed from: Beginning Drawing and Drawing 2

Painting 1 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Beginning Painting develops and increases artistic painting skills, knowledge, experiences, visual observation, and appreciation. Students explore a variety of painting media such as; watercolor, acrylic, and mixed media. Beginning with a rich introduction on the possibility of watercolor, they focus on the foundational techniques of successful watercolor painting. Students also explore the work of contemporary watercolorists to understand a variety of techniques. Study of the Japanese method of Sumi-e will also open students to the wider cultural implications of the medium. Acrylic paint engages students in modern methods of painting by first developing a strong foundation of color theory while also developing paint handling skills. Students paint on a variety of surfaces including paper, canvas board and stretched canvases, which they build. Good drawing skills and artistic knowledge are essential for beginning painting students. Background Knowledge Needed from: Beginning Drawing or prior drawing study Painting 2 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Painting 2 provides students with in-depth study and practice of various painting media in an intensive studio environment. Students build their own painting surfaces and experiment with mixed media techniques. Emphasis is placed on modern and contemporary painters and movements such as Pop, Abstract Expressionism, and artists who create works in the realm of social justice. Development of personal style and aesthetic understanding is gained through student research, study, and oral presentations of historical and contemporary artists. Individual growth and experimentation is a priority of art production, and personal critique, through writing and discussions, helps that process.

15

Background Knowledge Needed from: Beginning Drawing and Painting 1 or prior study Painting 3 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Painting 3 continues to build on the skills, knowledge and concepts of Beginning and Painting 2. Students work independently exploring concepts and ideas that have personal interest to them. Students continue to use the language of art as well as build connections to historical concepts past and present. Students increase their skills of speaking and writing critically and reflectively about their work. Focus will be given to portfolio development, writing artist statements, content, composition and creating original series of works. Background Knowledge Needed from: Beginning and Painting 1 and 2 Ceramics 1 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Ceramics 1 delves into functional and sculptural pottery while exploring form, design, function, and good craftsmanship. Students create works of art in clay, utilizing the processes of hand building (coils, slabs and pinch) and wheel throwing, followed by preparing the surface with texture, carving, and decorative glazing. Students complete each project while learning the glazing, finishing, and firing process. They study ancient ceramics of Greece and contemporary ceramics of Native Americans as well as other historical and contemporary ceramic artists. Ceramics 2 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Ceramics 2 further explores the medium of clay through larger scale works and sculptural exploration. Skills in wheel throwing, glazing, and surface decoration techniques are increased. Students create multiple clay forms in a variety of

sizes, while developing their personal aesthetic. Research on historical and contemporary ceramic artists also deepens knowledge of techniques and creates a wider base for artistic development. Students reflect on their work through writing, participate in discussions, and cooperate in group work. Background Knowledge Needed from: Ceramics 1 Ceramics 3 Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Ceramics 3 class continues to build on the skills, knowledge and concepts of Beginning and Intermediate Ceramics. Students work independently exploring concepts and ideas that have personal interest to them. Students continue to use the language of art as well as build connections to historical concepts past and present. Students improve their skills of speaking and writing critically and reflectively about their work. This class will focus on portfolio development, creating an original body of work, composition and writing an artist statement. Background Knowledge Needed from: Ceramics 1 and 2 Sculpture Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Sculpture provides a foundational experience through experimentation with assorted materials (construction paper, wood scrap, cardboard, plaster, wire, and found objects). Students will explore and use recycled materials throughout the course as we delve into modern artists who upcycle materials otherwise doomed to landfills. Students create relief sculpture in the round and kinetic sculpture through methods including assemblage, additive, subtractive and modeling. Individually planned construction and collaborative free-form object- making provides varied sculptural opportunities. Students investigate issues of social justice, environmental impact of refuse, sustainable living, and social

16

engagement of audiences through collaboration and installation. Sculptors across history and cultures are discussed and explored. This course may be repeated for credit. Applied Arts Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Applied Arts explores mediums that most would consider outside the realm of fine arts, from papermaking and book-making to mosaic and screen printing. The history of dye is also explored through tie-dye and batik methods and creations. Cultural influences on crafts, how they are regarded in today’s society, and role of crafts in art are explored and discussed. Background Knowledge Needed from: Beginning Drawing or prior drawing study Printmaking Grade Levels: 9-12 Semester - .5 Credits Printmaking teaches students the history, techniques, and process of creating one or more images from a single prepared surface. Relief, monotype, drypoint, and screen-printing are taught through production and examination of historical and contemporary artists. Varied techniques (hand rubbed prints from card- board and linoleum, printing press with plexiglass, and embossing) are used as students work individually or collaboratively. Students discuss and critique exemplars and their own artwork to enhance and improve their skills and understanding of concepts. This course may be repeated for credit. Background Knowledge Needed from: Beginning Drawing or prior drawing study

speak World Languages Spanish 1 Grade Levels: 9-12 All Year - 1 Credit Spanish 1 students engage in a variety of learning opportunities to develop a foundation of communication in Spanish by learning to discuss their daily lives, families, and personal preferences, as well as by studying Spanish-speaking cultures. Coursework includes a variety of speaking and writing practices with some storytelling. Students will work individually and in groups on artistic projects. Students will read at least one book entirely in Spanish. The majority of the class is taught in Spanish with English translation. Spanish 2 Grade Levels: 9-12 All Year - 1 Credit Spanish 2 students review previously studied structures and vocabulary from Spanish 1, but quickly expand vocabulary, incorporate additional verb tenses, and build increasingly advanced sentence structures. Communication is emphasized as students improve their listening, speaking, reading and writing through language study skills. In-depth investigations familiarize student with Spanish-speaking people and their cultures. Knowledge is demonstrated through a variety of assessments including student created skits and dialogues, story writing, and presentations. Students will work individually and in groups on a variety of projects, including reading books written in Spanish. The majority of the class is taught in Spanish. Background Knowledge Needed from: Spanish 1 or prior Spanish study

17

explore Career CTE Portfolio Grade levels: 9-12 (typically 11-12th grade) Quarter-Semester: 0.5 credit Participating in this opportunity allows students to complete a professional portfolio prior to earning credit for work or an internship. The portfolio focuses on the career development process which encourages learning about yourself, career research and comparison, and how to be successful in a career. Students will have the support of completing this portfolio with FAIR’s work-based learning coordinator. Career Experience/Internship Grade levels: 11, 12 Quarter - Semester: 0.25 credit/quarter Career Experience/Internship allows students to earn credit for a part-time job or an internship opportunity! Using a student-centered approach, the work-based learning coordinator will assist students in navigating workforce challenges of their part time job or internship that will lead to more in depth conversations about post-secondary pathways. Students will participate in activities and discussions surrounding topics like conflict resolution, workplace safety, ethical dilemmas, workplace rights, and budgeting. Background Knowledge Needed from: CTE Portfolio

branch out Additional Options ONLINE LEARNING CLASSES There are several reasons for becoming an online student, and there are several ways to do so. Students who are interested in online coursework should meet with their school counselor to discuss the options and courses available. WHAT KIND OF STUDENT BENEFITS FROM MPS ONLINE COURSES? The student who: • Can’t seem to fit Physical Education or Health in

their already full schedule. • Needs to finish additional credits to graduate. • Wants to take a course their school does not

offer. • Has disability or short term medical issue and

needs to work from home. • Has summer job or family travel plans and still

wants to earn credit during the summer school session.

• Is home schooled and wants additional classes. • Needs an alternative learning setting. • Wants to be a full time online student. PSEO (Post-Secondary Enrollment Option) The State of Minnesota’s Post-Secondary Enrollment Option Program (PSEO) enables high school students in grades 10-12 to take classes at any Minnesota college while still in high school. The state covers the cost of tuition and books. Credit is earned at the high school and college level upon successful completion of the course. Students can take college courses part or full-time at a post-secondary institution as PSEO students. Post-secondary institutions offer courses on their campus and online.

18

PSEO as a 10th grade student Legislation allows eligible 10th-grade students to enroll initially in one Career and Technical Education (CTE) course through PSEO their first semester. If the student earns a “C” or higher grade in this first course, they are eligible to take two additional CTE courses while in 10th grade. In order to be eligible, a 10th-grade student must have met the proficiency level of “meets or exceeds” on the 8th Grade MCA Reading Test or pass a nationally normed standardized test. PSEO as an 11th-12th grade student Each college and/or university that offers PSEO sets their own requirements for enrollment into the program. As a general rule, successful PSEO students are in the top 30% of the junior class or the top 50% of their senior class. School districts do not make this determination. Students at FAIR Downtown have successfully completed coursework at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities, Concordia College, and Minneapolis Community & Technical College. MY LIFE PLAN (MLP) My Life Plan (MLP) is a post-secondary (after high school) planning graduation requirement. MLP requires students to explore self, college, and career. Each grade level has required activities that students typically complete through classrooms. Activities include personality and interest assessments, résumé writing, career and college research, and self-reflection surveys. SCHOOL COUNSELING SERVICES SCHOOL COUNSELORS The FAIR School Counseling Program is designed to provide comprehensive, developmental counseling, addressing the academic, career/post-secondary, and social/emotional needs of all students. Students and parents are encouraged to schedule appointments with their assigned School Counselor. Students may stop by the

Counseling Office before school, after school, during their assigned lunch, or during passing time to schedule an appointment. Throughout the school year The FAIR School Counselor meets with students and families individually for different reasons based upon their individual needs. Some students may be referred to us by a concerned teacher or coach, we may seek out specific students for various reasons, and/or students and parents are always welcome to come to us for any reason. The FAIR School Counselor works in classrooms facilitating college and career readiness lessons in accordance with MPS’ post-secondary planning graduation requirement: “My Life Plan” (for more information please refer to http://guidance.mpls.k12.mn.us/my_life_plan), and sometimes work with small groups of students if common issues can be best addressed in a group format. ACHIEVEMPLS CAREER AND COLLEGE CENTER (CCC) The AchieveMpls Career and College Center (CCC) provides The FAIR School students and families with the information, personal support, and connections they need to create a solid plan for their future careers or college plans. Coordinators, in collaboration with the The FAIR School Counselor and other staff members, provide opportunities for students to: · obtain individual guidance on career opportunities, college searches, and financial aid · use the Naviance and other websites to research colleges, ACT/SAT test preparation, write resumes, complete My Life Plan milestones, search for scholarships, and investigate careers · attend college fairs · participate in career experiences · meet with college, career, and military representatives · get assistance in searching for local and national scholarships · receive help completing job applications Families are always welcome to stop into the Career and College Center or schedule an appointment with a coordinator to discuss questions regarding their student’s post-secondary plans.

19

ACADEMIC SUPPORT PROGRAMS AUTISM The Autism program is designed to serve students who have been identified as having Autism Spectrum Disorders. Program components include highly-structured, individualized programming, intensive communication and language training, social skills training, utilization of natural environments for instruction, positive behavioral programming, educationally based sensory activities, and inclusion with mainstream peers and activities when appropriate. Related services including speech/language, occupational therapy, and adaptive physical education are also provided based on individual need. LIFE SKILLS The Life Skills Program at Southwest High School is a full-time (level IV/Federal setting III) program. The mission of the program is to prepare students for the transition from school to adulthood. Emphasis is placed on the development of skills, attitudes, and behaviors necessary for success as an adult. RESOURCE SETTING Students receiving special education services in the resource setting spend most of their day in general education classes. Typically resource students are enrolled in the high school foundations course which supports individual academic needs for general education classes, i.e. organization, work completion, and self-advocacy skills. Resource students may also have a small group special education math or English class if identified on their IEP. Southwest is currently using a co-teaching model for support of some resource students in Physics 9th grade, AP Human

Geography 9th grade, 9th grade math, 10th grade math, and 11th grade math. DEVELOPMENTAL COGNITIVE DELAY (DCD) This program provides special education services to students with emphasis on developing functional and academic skills. Services are provided in a variety of settings, including general education and special education classrooms, community environments, and job training sites. All educational and transition areas are addressed based on student needs as outlined in the student's IEP. Alternative curriculum is provided to students that includes instruction in daily and independent living, communication, community participation, recreational and leisure, work and work-related skill development. ADVISORY Advisory is a regularly scheduled period of time, during the school day, when staff meet with small groups of students. This regularly scheduled advisory time is an opportunity for students and staff to build community and communication in our building to enrich student success. Advisory days will be separated into travel days and non-travel days. On travel days students can arrange with a teacher that is not their advisory teacher to meet with them for any work (missing assignments; assignment/ test re-do, etc.). On non-travel days students must stay with their assigned advisory teacher and use their advisory time in a productive manner.

Expect More. Experience More.

We see FAIR School as a beacon of 21st century learning, grounded in equity and defined by arts and academic excellence, where all student achieve through he integration of the arts, technology, cultural understanding, and active, committed community partnerships.