robert g. cole high school · 2018-01-03 · a practicum course where students can gain real-world...
TRANSCRIPT
ROBERT G. COLE
HIGH SCHOOL REGISTRATION GUIDE
2018 - 2019
FSHISD Beliefs
We exist to serve the military child.
We are a family of lifelong learners who respect and honor individual
differences, diversity, and talent.
We believe a safe and caring environment fosters the emotional and social
well-being of students.
We believe that every teacher is a leader; every leader is a teacher.
We inspire our students to their highest level of learning.
We, the school community, provide engaging, challenging, and meaningful
work for learners.
We prepare students to be leaders by instilling character, competence, and
creativity.
Topic: Page:
Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 2
Accreditation ....................................................................................................................... 2
Attendance ......................................................................................................................... 2
Change of Address and Telephone Numbers .................................................................... 3
Grading System Explanation .............................................................................................. 3
Course Designations ...................................................................................................... 3-4
Grade Level Classification .................................................................................................. 4
Important Notices ............................................................................................................... 4
Prerequisites ........................................................................................................................................... 4
Advanced Academics Agreements……………………………………………………………………………….4
Support for English Language Learners…………………………………………………………………………4
Graduation Plan………………………………………………….…………………………………………………4
Classes of insufficient size & Alternate course selection ......................................................................... 4
Schedule Changes/ Course Requests..................................................................................................... 5
Dropping a course................................................................................................................................... 5
Academic Dishonesty ............................................................................................................................. 5
Waivers for Grades ................................................................................................................................. 5
Physical Fitness Assessment .................................................................................................................. 5
Instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR) ............................................................................... 5
Mastery of Professional Communications ............................................................................................... 5
College Preparation ................................................................................................................................ 5
College Acceptance Testing Requirements ............................................................................................. 5
NCAA Requirements ............................................................................................................................... 5
College Credit Earning Programs and Courses ................................................................. 6
Graduation Requirements (Entering 9th grade 2014 and Beyond)…………………..……...7
Navigating the Foundation Plan and Endorsements .......................................................... 8
Foundation Plan with Endorsements Diagram ................................................................... 9
Foundation Plan FSHISD Core Course Options ................................................................ 10
STEM Endorsement Options.............................................................................................. 11
Business and Industry Endorsement Options .................................................................... 12
Arts and Humanities Endorsement Options .................................................................. 13-14
Public Service Endorsement Options ................................................................................. 15
Multidisciplinary Endorsement Options .............................................................................. 16
Course Descriptions ....................................................................................... 17-28 English and Language Arts Courses ................................................................................................... 17-18
Mathematics Courses ......................................................................................................................... 18-19
Science Courses ................................................................................................................................. 20-21
Social Studies Courses ....................................................................................................................... 21-22
Computer Science Courses ................................................................................................................ 22-23
Business and Industry Courses ........................................................................................................... 23-24
Public Services Courses ..................................................................................................................... 24-25
Arts and Humanities Courses .............................................................................................................. 25-26
Physical Education and Athletics Courses……………………………………………………...….……………27
General Elective Courses ................................................................................................................... 27-28
Special Education Electives .................................................................................................................... 28
Advanced Academics Agreements ............................................................................... 29-34
Extracurricular Opportunities .............................................................................................. 35
Automatic College Admission........................................................................................ 36-37
NCAA Rules for Eligibility ................................................................................................... 38
Four Year Plan……………………………………………………………………………… ....... 40
TA
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2
To the students: This catalog is intended to help students select the courses for next school year. The basic plan for Texas high school education includes certain required subjects and elective courses that balance the program and compliment cultural interests, career and post-high school plans. Students are urged to take as many English, Math, Science, and Social Studies courses as they are capable of mastering. Students are encouraged to ask the counselors and teachers for assistance.
To the parents:
Parents have an important role in helping their children make decisions regarding high school course selections. Please
become familiar with this curriculum guide to help make important decisions. Parents are encouraged to ask the teachers,
counselors, and administrators at the school about any specific concerns.
Registration:
Once a class schedule is formulated, the student is expected to follow that schedule. Staffing is based on the courses
selected by students and changes of mind should not result in a schedule change when school begins. Please take the
process seriously and take advantage of the many opportunities to gain information afforded to the students and parents
by the campus staff.
In registering for courses for next school year, students will automatically be placed on the Foundation High School
Program with one endorsement for graduation. Students may also work toward performance acknowledgements and are
encouraged to do so. Students wishing to select the Foundation High School Program without an endorsement must
meet with a counselor, as this option is not available until the end of the sophomore year.
Robert G. Cole Middle/ High School is accredited through the Texas Education Agency.
In Texas children between the ages of 6 and 18 are required to attend school unless otherwise exempted by law. School
officials investigate and report violations of the state compulsory attendance law. Students are expected to be in
attendance in school at all times when school is in session.
State law requires that a student may not be given credit for a class unless the student is in attendance a minimum of
90% of the time the class is scheduled to meet. Students who have been absent must bring to the office a written, signed
statement by a parent, guardian, and person having custody or control of the student or a doctor’s note as to the reason
for the absence. Without an approved reason for absence turned in to the school attendance office within two school
days, an unexcused absence will remain on the record. For more detailed information on what events are counted as
excused or unexcused absences, please see FSHISD Policy and the Robert G. Cole Middle/ High School Student and
Parent Handbook.
ACCREDITATION
ATTENDANCE
INTRODUCTION
3
Students who change their home address or telephone number are required to report this information to the Attendance
Office as soon as the change is known. Students who fail to report this information within one week will be subject to
disciplinary action.
There shall be a minimum attendance requirement for grading purposes. The following grading systems are used for
academic and elective courses:
For Academic Performance: 90 – 100 Indicates excellent achievement (A) 80 – 89 Indicates above average achievement (B)
75 - 79 Indicates average achievement (C) 70 – 74 Indicates below average achievement (D)
Below 70 Failing (F)
NC Noncredit due to excessive absences
F Fail
P Pass
For Citizenship:
E Excellent S Satisfactory
N Needs Improvement
U Unsatisfactory
AP – Advanced Placement:
AP courses prepare a student to take Advanced Placement Exams for college credit. Content requirements for all AP courses are prescribed in the Descriptions published by the College Board. These publications may be obtained for all AP subject area. Enrolled students will take the AP assessments offered in the spring. Students scoring a 3, 4, or 5 on one or more of these tests may gain college credit. Students scoring a 2 or higher, are better prepared for the rigors and expectations of college-level work. Students should consult specific colleges/universities regarding acceptance of credit.
CTE – Career and Technical Education
Career and Technical Education programs offer students a coherent and rigorous sequence of courses intended to
provide students with relevant knowledge and skills needed to prepare for further education and careers in current or
emerging professions. Students must earn four credits by the completion of at least three courses in a specific order to
earn a CTE linked endorsement. The capstone course for these programs must be an advanced course, which is typically
a practicum course where students can gain real-world experience in the program’s profession. Robert G. Cole High
School’s CTE programs are in the clusters of (1) Business, Management and Administration, (2) Arts, A/V Technology,
and Communications – Commercial Photography, (3) Hospitality and Tourism – Culinary Arts, and (4) Health Science. *FSHISD, in support of school districts and Career and Technical Education Programs, does not discriminate on the basis of sex, disability, race, color, age or national origin in its educational programs, activities, or employment as required by Title IX, Section 504 and Title VI. *FSHISD, para assistar distritos escolar y su Programa Educacional de Carerra y Technologia no discriminan en base a sexo, disabilidad, raza, color, edad u origen nacional en sus programas, educativos, actividades, o empleo como lo requiere el Titulo IX, Seccion 504 y Titulo VI.
DC - Dual Credit:
Dual credit courses allow students to earn college credit while in high school. These courses fulfill high school course
requirements, appear on the high school transcript, and are used in calculating grade point averages. These courses are
taught by a Cole High School teacher on the Cole campus. Dual Credit courses are free of charge to students. In order
to be eligible, the student must meet all designated prerequisites, apply to St. Phillip’s College, score an acceptable
measure on a qualifying exam (SAT, ACT, or TSI), and present the required documents. See the Dual Credit Registration
guide and Handbook for more detailed registration information. Please contact FSHISD Academic Dean for more
information.
CHANGE OF ADDRESS AND TELEPHONE NUMBERS
GRADING SYSTEM EXPLANATION
COURSE DESIGNATIONS
4 DE - Dual Enrollment:
Dual Enrollment courses allow students to earn an opportunity for college credit while in high school. These courses fulfill
high school course requirements, appear on the high school transcript, and are used in calculating grade point averages.
If credit is earned and accepted by the students, the college credit will be granted by the University of Texas at Austin
(UT) on a UT Transcript. These courses are cooperatively taught by a Cole High School teacher on the Cole campus and
a Course Coordinator from the UT campus. Dual Enrollment courses are free of charge to the students. In order to be
eligible for these courses the student must receive written parental permission and meet all designated prerequisites.
Please contact FSHISD Academic Dean for more information.
Local Credit
In accordance with Texas mandate, courses designated local credit shall not count as high school credits towards
graduation or the grade point calculation for the purposes of college entry.
Pre-AP – Pre-Advanced Placement:
Pre-AP courses are targeted towards highly motivated students with hopes of working towards a college preparatory
track, including AP courses. These courses include a differentiated curriculum that includes a wider range and greater
depth of subject matter than that of the general level course, an emphasis on higher level and critical thinking skills, and
independent, as well as guided research. Students enrolled in Pre-AP level courses must read at or above grade level
and must be motivated by an interest in the subject area.
Students shall be classified according to the following:
CLASSIFICATION CREDITS
Freshman (9th grade) 0 - 5.5
Sophomore (10th grade) 6 - 11.5
Junior (11th grade) 12 - 17.5
Senior (12th grade) 18
Prerequisites: Prerequisites required by a course sequence or recommended by a course’s instructor are noted in the course description section under each course title. Please read these items closely and thoughtfully consider them when making course requests and, if applicable, endorsement sequence decisions. They are intended to help students and their families make informed decisions about appropriate class placement. All AP courses have a prerequisite that students should be able to read and comprehend college-level texts and apply the conventions of Standard Written English in their writing, including writing grammatically correct, complete sentences. Advanced Academics Agreements:
There are three advanced academics agreements to clearly delineate certain expectations, commitments and
understandings required to better ensure success in these courses. There is one for dual credit, dual enrollment and Pre-
AP/ AP courses. Contracts are on pages 29-34 in this guide. Students interested in enrolling in these courses, and their
parents, must sign on the choice cards acknowledging these agreements. If a student enrolls in a course, a contract must
be completed for each course and submitted to that classroom teacher at the beginning of the year.
Support for English Language Learners in the English as a Second Language (ESL) Program Instruction to support English and a Second or Other Language students is provided in a pull-out program format. All English teachers are ESL Certified and all faculty members receive training on English language acquisition instruction for the listening, reading, writing and speaking development of these students. Graduation Plan All students are required to complete the graduation plan that matches their path on page 40 of this registration guide. The career pathway and endorsement portions of the plan is considered when leadership makes decisions about course offerings and staffing. Classes of insufficient size & Alternate course selection Students are reminded that some course offerings are tentative and are dependent upon sufficient enrollment. Alternate
courses listed should be carefully selected as they may be used if a scheduling conflict occurs.
GRADE LEVEL CLASSIFICATION
IMPORTANT NOTICES
5 Schedule Changes/Course Requests: The master schedule is built, faculty is hired, and room assignments are made based on student choices. Changes may
NOT be considered after May 25, 2018 unless a student fails a summer school class or attends summer school or credit
recovery and gains credit for a course selected for the following school year. After the school year has begun, schedule
changes will only be made for leveling purposes. Please make selections with care.
Dropping a course: Changes of mind will not be granted after May 25, 2018. A course dropped after the first 10 days of the semester will
receive a WF (Withdrawn Failing). The WF will be recorded on the student’s report card for the remaining grading period
and the semester, and the student’s permanent record. This WF averages as a zero in the student’s GPA and makes the
student ineligible for participation in extracurricular activities for the next three school week evaluation period.
Academic Dishonesty:
Cheating, collusion and plagiarism are frowned upon at Robert G. Cole High School. These offenses will result in a zero on the assignment. If a student participates in academic dishonesty in a Dual Credit or Advanced Placement course, that student will be removed from the course. Plagiarism is a situation in which 20% or more of a student’s composition is identical to that of another’s intellectual property. In the event that a student’s paper meets the 20% requirement, but does not contain appropriate citations, a conversation shall occur about the incident, but future incidents will result in a label of plagiarism. All students that participate in these activities will be required to meet with a counselor to process the incident and determine a plan for future success.
Waivers for Grades:
Student enrolled in Pre-AP, AP, DC or DE courses will remain eligible for UIL activities if their grades fall below the
passing mark of 70.
Physical Fitness Assessment: TEA requires the fitness levels of all students in grades 3-12 to be assessed at least once annually and submit the results to the Texas Education Agency each school year. The TEA has identified the Fitness Gram as the assessment tool to be used by all school districts effective in the 2007-2008 school year. Instruction in Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation (CPR): TEA requires that before graduating high school in Texas, each student must receive instruction in CPR. Certification in CPR is not required. Requirements for CPR may be waived by ARD or 504 committees in special circumstances. At Robert G. Cole High School CPR instruction will occur during the week of graduation. Mastery of Professional Communications: TEA requires that before graduating high school in Texas, each student demonstrate proficiency, in delivering clear verbal messages; effective nonverbal behaviors; listening for results; applying valid problem-solving processes; and communication skills needed for professional and social success in interpersonal situations, group interactions, and personal and professional presentations. Students are required to complete the professional communications or speech course to meet this requirement at Robert G. Cole High School. College Preparation: Students intending to complete a college-preparatory plan should consult catalogs of specific colleges before making
selections, paying particular attention to foreign language and mathematics requirements. Colleges that have large
numbers of applicants will often use rigorous course loads as selection criteria even if their catalog states a lesser
minimum requirement.
College Acceptance Testing Requirements:
Students wishing to enroll in a Texas college must qualify by exam. All students who are not exempt by their ACT or SAT scores must take the Texas Success Initiative (TSI) Assessment prior to enrolling in a Texas public college or university. See your counselor or contact the college of your choice for more information about the TSI test. Students can be exempt from the testing requirement by earning qualifying scores on the SAT or ACT.
National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) Requirements:
Athletes should carefully consider their course options as NCAA has requirements for academic credit that may impact
college participation and scholarships. For example, credit by exams for core courses may provide credits for high school
graduation, but do not count for core academic credit for athletes wishing to complete in college athletic programs for
NCAA Division I and II schools.
6
Alamo Academies Program through Alamo Colleges
Alamo Academies are two-year dual credit academy programs open to Juniors Only. Applications are required in the
spring for fall enrollment. See counselor for more information. More information is also available at
http://www.alamoacademies.com/.
Alamo Area Aerospace Academy Aircraft Mechanics- Three hour courses; students attend
classes on the St. Philip’s SW Campus. Information Technology and Security Academy Computer Security-Three hour courses; students attend
classes at the St. Philip’s Advanced Technology Center. Advanced Technology and Manufacturing Academy Diverse Manufacturing –Three hour courses; students
attend classes on the St. Philip’s SW Campus. Health Professions Academy Earn college credits toward becoming a nurse; students
attend classes at San Antonio College. Heavy Equipment Academy Heavy equipment technicians; students attend classes at
an Alamo Academy campus. Dual Credit Courses through St. Philip’s College Robert G. Cole High School offers Dual Credit courses to high school students. Dual Credit allows a high school student to earn college credit and high school credit concurrently. Academic dual credit is awarded through St. Philip’s College. Students must qualify for admission to the college or university and register by a specific deadline. High school graduation credit is awarded through Robert G. Cole High School based on student performance. More information is also available at https://www.alamo.edu/spc/dual-credit/.
OnRamps Dual Enrollment Courses through The University of Texas at Austin Robert G. Cole High School offers Dual Enrollment courses offer an opportunity for college credit while in high school.
Students who demonstrate ability to do college level work in the fall semester may participate in a spring undergraduate
course. The course is taught by a highly-trained high school teacher and a UT professor. If earned and accepted,
academic college credit is awarded through UT. More information is also available at http://onramps.utexas.edu/
. Computer Science UT Computer Science 302
3 college credits
ROBERT G. COLE
HIGH SCHOOL
ST. PHILIP’S COLLEGE
Semester I Semester II ENGLISH III Composition I –
ENGL 1301 Composition II – ENGL 1302
ENGLISH IV British Literature I – ENGL 2322
British Literature II – ENGL 2323
PRECALCULUS College Algebra – MATH 1414
Precalculus Math – MATH 2414
STATISTICS Elementary Statistics – MATH 1442
U.S. HISTORY U.S. History I –
HIST 1301 U.S. History II – HIST 1302
COLLEGE CREDIT EARNING PROGRAMS AND COURSES
7
Students who enter the ninth grade in the fall of 2014 and thereafter must enroll in courses necessary to complete the
Foundation High School Program with an endorsement. Students entering ninth grade prior to the fall of 2014 can opt in to
the Foundation Program. Students may also earn Distinguished Level of Achievement by including and successfully
completing Algebra II in their selected coursework. The table below, which outlines requirements for 22 credits for the
Foundation High School Program plus the 4 additional credits required for an endorsement. Along with the following course
requirements, students must meet proficiency in professional communication as determined by the district. Eligibility to
attend a four-year college in Texas upon graduation is determined by completion of the entrance requirements set forth by
each college or university.
Course Foundation + Endorsement Notes
English
4 English I, II, and III are required with options for the 4th credit.
Mathematics 3
Algebra I,
Geometry, and an
additional math
course
+ 1 additional
advanced math
course
Algebra II must be taken to earn the Distinguished Level of Achievement.
Science 3
Biology
and
IPC, Chemistry, or
Physics,
and
an additional
science course
+ 1 additional
advanced science
course
Biology is required for all students.
Social Studies 3
World Geography
or World History,
U.S. History,
Government ( ½ ),
& Economic ( ½ )
U.S. History, Government and Economics are
required for all students.
Languages other
than English
(Foreign Language)
2 Students may take and earn two credits in the same language.
Physical Education 1 Students may earn a maximum of four (4) credits in PE toward graduation-including athletics. Students may meet the PE requirement through after school participation in the fall semester of marching band and cheerleading, and both semesters for JROTC. Student may also meet the PE requirement if they participate in a district-approved Olympic caliber, off-campus training program.
Fine Arts 1 Approved fine arts courses include art, music, and theatre courses.
Electives 5 + 2 additional
electives
Total Credits
Required
22 26
Revised: 12/12/2014
CLASSES OF 2018 AND BEYOND
FOUNDATION HIGH SCHOOL PROGRAM
FORT SAM HOUSTON ISD GRADUATION PLAN
8
The Foundation Plan:
This graduation plan identifies the minimum requirements for graduation as The Foundation. Each student must earn 22
specific Foundation credits and also four additional credits to earn an endorsement to earn a high school diploma in the
state of Texas. The chart on page 7 lists those 22 credits.
Endorsements:
Students can choose from five endorsement areas to participate in at Cole High School. Those areas are:
Science Technology Engineering and Math
Business and Industry
Arts and Humanities
Public Services
Multi-Disciplinary Studies
These are diagramed on page 9. The diagram gives insight into which of endorsement courses may be completed as part
of the 22 credit Foundation, and which would be completed as part of the additional 4 credit requirement. Within each
endorsement area, there are specific course sequence options. The course sequence options provide details into how a
student can earn an endorsement at Cole High School. These are Cole’s options:
Science Technology Engineering and Math
o Computer Science
o Mathematics
o Science
o Combination
Business and Industry
o CTE Arts, A/V Technology and Communications – Commercial Photography
o CTE Business, Management, and Administration
o CTE Hospitality and Tourism – Culinary Arts
o English - Debate
Arts and Humanities
o Art
o Languages Other Than English
o Music
o Social Studies
o Theatre
o Combination – Fine Arts
Public Services
o CTE Health Science
o JROTC
Multi-Disciplinary Studies
o Advanced Placement or Dual Credit
o Four Foundation Subject Area Credits
Making Decisions:
Students should closely review the courses identified in these specific course sequence options to make choices about
which endorsement, option and classes they will request. These sequences, which can be found on pages 11-16 are
intended to guide students towards their “major” of choice. Advanced English, Mathematics and Science options can be
found on page 10. We encourage students to select one endorsement of focus. As students work though their high school
career, they may change their minds. They may earn more than one endorsement. A decision on an endorsement is not
meant to be final, but is meant to help students be more aware of their direction and goals. Due to the mobility of our
population, it may be likely that the Multidisciplinary Studies Endorsement is the best for a student because of the credits
that student has been able to accumulate in his or her travels.
NAVIGATING THE FOUNDATION PLAN AND ENDORSEMENTS
9
10
English – 4th credit options
English IV
AP English IV
English IV DC
Creative Writing
Debate III
College Preparatory ELA
Mathematics – 3rd/4th credit options
Algebraic Reasoning
Algebra II
Pre-Calculus
Pre-AP Precalculus
DC Precalculus
AP Calculus AB
AP Calculus BC
AP Computer Science
Statistics
AP Statistics
DC Statistics
Discrete Mathematics
College Preparatory Math
Science – 2nd credit options
IPC
Chemistry
AP Chemistry
Physics
AP Physics I
Science – 3rd/4th credit options
Chemistry
Physics
Environmental Systems
AP Biology
AP Chemistry
Anatomy and Physiology
Forensic Science
DC Biology II
Revised: 12/12/2017
FORT SAM HOUSTON ISD FOUNDATION PLAN
CORE COURSE OPTIONS
11
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY, ENGINEERING, MATH ENDORSEMENT
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o Algebra II
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics / AP Physics I
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or
World History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same
language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 3 Credits
Students must take 4
Computer Science courses.
Choices include:
o Fundamentals of Comp. Science
o DE Computer Science
o AP Comp. Science A o Computer Science III
– Independent Study o Robotics (offered to
MS students) o Discrete Mathematics
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o Algebra II
Students must take two
additional Math courses.
Choices include:
o Algebraic Reasoning o Precalculus o Pre-AP Precalculus o DC Precalculus o AP Calculus AB o AP Calculus BC o Statistics o AP Statistics o DC Statistics o AP Computer
Science o Discrete Mathematics
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics / AP Physics I
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or
World History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 6 Credits
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o Algebra II
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics / AP Physics I
Students must take two
additional Science
courses. Choices include:
o AP Chemistry o AP Biology o Environmental
Systems o Anatomy and
Physiology o Forensic Science
Social Studies
o World Geography or
World History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same
language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 6 Credits
Beyond the foundation,
students take three
additional credits from no
more than two of the
following areas:
Computer Science
Mathematics
Science
COMPUTER
SCIENCE MATHEMATICS SCIENCE COMBINATION
12
BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY ENDORSEMENT
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or World
History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 3 Credits
Students must earn at least 4
Credits from CTE Business,
Management and
Administration courses.
Courses must be taken in the
appropriate sequence. 3rd Credit
must be an advanced course.
Choices include:
o Professional Communications (½)
o Touch System Data Entry (½)
o Money Matters o Business Information
Management I o Business Information
Management II
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or
World History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same
language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 3 Credits
Students must earn at least 4
Credits from CTE Hospitality
and Tourism courses.
Courses must be taken in the
appropriate sequence. 3rd
Credit must be an advanced
course. Choices include:
o Introduction to Culinary
Arts
o Culinary Arts (2)
o Advanced
Culinary Arts (2)
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
Students must take two
additional English courses.
Choices include:
o English IV
o AP English IV
o English IV DC
o Creative Writing
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or
World History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same
language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 3 Credits
Students must take 3
Debate classes. Choices
include:
o Debate I
o Debate II
o Debate III
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or World
History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 3 Credits
Students must earn at least 4
Credits from CTE Arts, A/V
Technology and
Communications courses.
Courses must be taken in the
appropriate sequence. 3rd Credit
must be an advanced course.
Choices include:
o Principles of Arts, A/V Technology and Communications
o Commercial Photography I o Commercial Photography I
Lab o Commercial Photo II o Commercial Photo II Lab o Practicum in Commercial
Photography
CTE ARTS, A/V TECHNOLOGY, AND
COMMUNICATIONS –
COMMERCIAL
PHOTOGRAPHY
CTE BUSINESS,
MANAGEMENT, AND
ADMINISTRATION *Available only to students
who completed BIM 1 in 2017-
2018
CTE HOSPITALITY AND
TOURISM – CULINARY
ARTS
ENGLISH - DEBATE
13
[ppp’\
ARTS AND HUMANITIES ENDORSEMENT
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or World
History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) & Economics
( ½ )
Foreign Language (same language)
Students must take four levels of
the same language or two levels of
two different languages. Choices
include:
o Spanish I
o Spanish II
o Spanish III
o Spanish IV
o French I
o French II
o French III
o French IV
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 5 Credits
LANGUAGES OTHER THAN ENGLISH
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or World
History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) & Economics
( ½ )
Foreign Language (same language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
Students must earn at least 4
Credits from Art courses. Courses
must be taken in the appropriate
sequence. Choices include:
o Art I
o Art II
o Art III
o AP Studio Art: 2D Portfolio
o AP Studio Art: 3D Portfolio
o AP Studio Art: Drawing
Portfolio
Electives
o 4 Credits
ART
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or World
History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) & Economics
( ½ )
Foreign Language (same language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
Students must take four Music
courses. Courses must be taken in
the appropriate sequence. Choices
include:
o Band I
o Band II
o Band III
o Band IV
o Choir I
o Choir II
o Choir III
o Choir IV
Electives
o 4 Credits
MUSIC
14
ARTS AND HUMANITIES ENDORSEMENT
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or World
History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ), Economics ( ½ )
Students must take two additional
Social Studies courses. Choices
include:
o AP Government
o Psychology ( ½ )
o Sociology ( ½ )
o AP US History
o DC US History
o World Geography
o World History
o AP World History
Foreign Language (same language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 5 Credits
SOCIAL STUDIES
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or World
History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) & Economics (
½ )
Foreign Language (same language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
Students must take four Theatre
courses. Courses must be taken in
the appropriate sequence. Choices
include:
o Technical Theatre I
o Theater Arts I
o Theater Arts II
o Theater Arts III
o Theater Arts IV
Electives
o 4 Credits
THEATRE
Beyond the foundation, students take
two additional credits each from two
of the following Arts areas, for a total
of four additional credits.
Art
Music
Theatre
COMBINATION – FINE ARTS
15
PUBLIC SERVICE ENDORSEMENT
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit (Anatomy and
Physiology Highly
Recommended)
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or World
History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 3 Credits
Students must earn at least 4
Credits from CTE Health Science
courses. Courses must be taken in
the appropriate sequence. 3rd Credit
must be an advanced course.
Choices include:
o Principles of Health Science
o Health Science Theory
o Practicum in Health Science (2)
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o 4th Credit
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry
o Physics
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography or World
History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 3 Credits
Students take a coherent sequence
of four courses. Choices include:
o Army JROTC I o Army JROTC II o Army JROTC III o Army JROTC IV
CTE HEALTH SCIENCE
JROTC
16
MULTIDISCIPLINARY STUDIES ENDORSEMENT
While fulfilling foundation requirements,
students take four advanced placement
or four dual credit courses.
English
Students may take advanced
placement or dual credit English
courses. Choices include:
o AP English III
o DC English III
o AP English IV
o DC English IV
Mathematics
Students may take advanced
placement or dual credit Math
courses. Choices include:
o AP Calculus AB
o AP Calculus BC
o DC Precalculus
o AP Statistics
o DC Statistics
o AP Computer Science
o DE Computer Science
Science
Students may take advanced
placement or dual credit Science
courses. Choices include:
o AP Chemistry
o AP Biology
o AP Physics I
Social Studies
Students may take advanced
placement or dual credit Social
Studies courses. Choices include:
o AP World History
o AP US History
o DC US History
o AP US Government
Fine Arts
Students may take advanced
placement or dual credit Fine Arts
courses. Choices include:
o AP Studio Art
o AP Studio Art: 2D Portfolio
o AP Studio Art: 3D Portfolio
o AP Studio Art: Drawing Portfolio
English
o English I
o English II
o English III
o English IV
Mathematics
o Algebra I
o Geometry
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Science
o Biology
o Chemistry or Physics
o 3rd Credit
o 4th Credit
Social Studies
o World Geography
o World History
o U.S. History
o Government ( ½ ) &
Economics ( ½ )
Foreign Language (same language)
o Level I
o Level II
Physical Education
o 1 credit
Fine Arts
o 1 credit
Electives
o 6 Credits
FOUR FOUNDATION SUBJECT AREA CREDITS
ADVANCED PLACEMENT OR DUAL CREDIT
17
ENGLISH AND LANGUAGE ARTS
ENGLISH I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: Required for all freshmen, English I places the
emphasis on grammatical structure, vocabulary skills and writing. The
course covers various genres including fiction, nonfiction, poetry and
drama with an emphasis on reading and writing informational text. Each
freshman is required to produce a research paper and a multimedia
presentation on a selected topic.
ENGLISH I Pre-AP Credit: 1.0 Prerequisite: current English teacher’s recommendation
Course Description: English I course material is covered at a faster
pace and in more depth. Vocabulary skills emphasize PSAT and SAT
vocabulary. Readings are more advanced with a multicultural
background. Students are introduced to and must respond to AP
prompts.
ENGLISH II Credit: 1.0 Prerequisite: English I
Course Description: Required for all sophomores, English II places the
emphasis on grammatical structure, vocabulary skills and writing. The
course covers various genres including fiction, nonfiction, poetry and
drama with an emphasis on reading and writing persuasive text. Each
sophomore is required to produce a research paper and a multimedia
presentation on a selected topic.
ENGLISH II Pre-AP Credit: 1.0 Prerequisites: English I and current English teacher’s
recommendation
Recommended prerequisite: Pre-AP English I
Course Description: English II course material is covered at a faster
pace and in more depth. Vocabulary skills emphasize PSAT and SAT
vocabulary. Readings are more advanced with a multicultural
background. Students are introduced to and must respond to AP
prompts.
ENGLISH III Credit: 1.0 Prerequisite: English II
Course Description: English III is required of students during the junior
year. The course covers a survey of American Literature with emphasis
on Puritanism, Romanticism, and Realism. In addition to reading and
discussing various works, students will write a research paper on an
assigned literary topic. A systematic study of SAT vocabulary is
required. Communication skills, both oral and written, will be
emphasized.
AP ENGLISH III – ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION Credit: 1.0 Recommended Prerequisites: English II Pre-AP and current
English teacher’s recommendation
Course Description: This course is organized around the acquisition of
critical thinking, analysis, and writing. The student progresses from
defining rhetorical terms to the more sophisticated skill of analyzing
writing for rhetorical elements to finally, understanding the author’s use
of language, syntax, and rhetoric. Students create essays in different
modes for different audiences that are error-free, well organized, and
that use rhetorical elements in a controlled way and for specific
purposes. Students will learn to analyze visuals such as charts,
paintings, artistic photographs, news photographs propaganda, and
advertisements. Students will practice and acquire close reading skills.
Several strands of skills are emphasized: rhetorical analysis,
development of ideas through critical thinking, and writing skills. We also
continue “strands” of close reading skills including defining words using
context clues and discerning connotative meanings. The course takes
the student through steps of acquiring, practicing, and finally mastering.
ENGLISH III DC / ENGL 1301 COMPOSITION I and ENGL1302 COMPOSITION II Credit: 1.0 / 6.0 Prerequisites: English II and meet all Alamo College’s admission
requirements Special Notes: If a student is enrolled in a class period that also
accommodates AP English Language and Composition students, these
students may be required to participate in AP activities as well.
Course Description: Composition I-Intensive study of and practice in writing processes, from invention and researching to drafting, revising, and editing, both individually and collaboratively. Emphasis on effective rhetorical choices, including audience, purpose, arrangement, and style. Focus on writing the academic essay as a vehicle for learning, communicating, and critical analysis. This course fulfills the Communication foundational component area of the core and addresses the following required objectives: Critical Thinking, Communication, Teamwork, and Personal Responsibility. Composition II- Intensive study of and practice in the strategies and techniques for developing research-based expository and persuasive texts. Emphasis on effective and ethical rhetorical inquiry, including primary and secondary research methods; critical reading of verbal, visual, and multimedia texts; systematic evaluation, synthesis, and documentation of information sources; and critical thinking about evidence and conclusions. This course fulfills the Communication foundational component area of the core and addresses the following required objectives: Critical Thinking, Communication, Teamwork, and Personal Responsibility.
ENGLISH IV Credit: 1.0 Prerequisite: English III
Course Description: English IV is required of all seniors for graduation.
Through the study of British, world, and contemporary literature and
nonfiction, students in English IV focus on close reading and
interpretation of literary selections, composition, vocabulary
development, listening and speaking, and viewing and representing a
variety of media.
AP ENGLISH IV – ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION Credit: 1.0 Recommended prerequisites: Pre-AP English III and current
teacher’s recommendation
Course Description: This course is organized around the evaluation and
analysis of major works of British literature through the lens of their
historical contexts and the authors’ use of literary techniques. The
students will learn to compose essays that will hone their ability to
clearly develop a unique and strong statement and master advanced
sentence structure while evaluating themes and/or concepts presented
in works of literature. This course also focuses on the practice of self-
initiated/guided research and study to master the elements of the
course. Class practices are held for the Literature and Composition AP
test that students are required to take in May.
ENGLISH IV DC / ENGL 2322 BRITISH LITERATURE: ANGLO SAXON THROUGH NEOCLASSICAL and ENGL 2323 BRITISH LITERATURE: ROMANTICISM TO THE PRESENT Credit: 1.0 / 6.0 Prerequisites: English III and meet all Alamo College’s admission
requirements Special Notes: If a student is enrolled in a class period that also of
accommodates AP English Literature and Composition students, these
students may be required to participate in AP activities as well.
Course Description: British Literature I-A survey of the development
of British literature from the Anglo-Saxon period to the Eighteenth
Century. Students will study works of prose, poetry, drama, and fiction in
relation to their historical, linguistic, and cultural contexts. Texts will be
selected from a diverse group of authors and traditions. British
Literature II- A survey of the development of British literature from the
Romantic period to the present. Students will study works of prose,
HIGH SCHOOL COURSE DESCRIPTIONS
18 poetry, drama, and fiction in relation to their historical and cultural
contexts. Texts will be selected from a diverse group of authors and
traditions.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY ELA Credit 1.0 Course Description: In this college-preparatory course students will
improve integrated critical reading and writing skills through
engagement with a variety of texts across content areas and genres. As
a result, students will be able to develop and express ideas clearly and
effectively to communicate with various audiences for various purposes
and occasions. This course is designed for students who are not yet
college-ready (as indicated by EOC, PSAT, etc.) by the spring semester
of their 11th grade year.
CREATIVE WRITING Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: English I and English II Course Description: Creative writing is for the student who enjoys
writing on his/her own and would like to develop creativity and increase
output. Writing is concentrated on genres of poetry, short story, and
drama. Personal observations and ideas serve as a springboard to
creative invention. Students are encouraged to participate in UIL writing
contests.
MATHEMATICS
ALGEBRA I Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: 8th Grade Mathematics or equivalent Course Description: This course is the foundation for high school
mathematics courses. It is the bridge from the concrete to the abstract
study of mathematics. Students learn to use a variety of
representations, tools, and technology to solve meaningful problems.
Topics include Foundation of functions, linear, quadratic, and
exponential functions. Real world applications are presented within the
course content.
GEOMETRY Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Algebra I Course Description: This course develops a structured mathematical
system employing both deductive and inductive reasoning. Students
study properties and relationships having to do with size, shape,
location, direction, and orientation of figures. Geometry students solve
meaningful problems using geometric ideas, relationships, and
properties. Topics include plane, spatial, coordinate, transformational
geometry, justification, and proof. Algebraic methods are used to solve
problems involving geometric principles.
GEOMETRY Pre-AP Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra I and current math teacher’s recommendation Course Description: This course develops an appreciation of an
axiomatic system pattern observation. Exploration of these patterns
allows the student to make conjectures about geometry which can be
proven deductively. The skills learned in Algebra I are integrated
throughout the course in order to reinforce the skills previously learned.
Students study properties and relationships having to do with size,
shape, location, direction, and orientation of figures. Geometry
students solve meaningful problems using geometric ideas,
relationships, and properties. Topics include plane, spatial, coordinate,
transformational geometry, justification, and proof. A variety of
problems will be used to challenge an advanced mathematics student.
ALGEBRAIC REASONING Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Algebra I Course Description: Students will continue with the development of mathematical reasoning related to algebraic understandings and processes, and deepen a foundation for studies in subsequent mathematics courses. Students will broaden their knowledge of functions and relationships, including linear, quadratic, square root, rational, cubic, cube root, exponential, absolute value, and logarithmic functions. Students will study these functions through analysis and application that includes explorations of patterns and structure, number and algebraic methods, and modeling from data using tools that build to workforce and college readiness such as probes, measurement tools, and software tools, including spreadsheets.
ALGEBRA II Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Algebra I Recommended Prerequisite: Geometry Course Description: In this course, students study algebraic concepts
and the relationships among them to better understand the structure of
algebra. Students in Algebra II learn that equations and functions are
algebraic tools that can be used to represent geometric curves and
figures, and they perceive the connections between algebra and
geometry to use the tools of one to help solve problems in the other.
Topics include linear, quadratic, square root, rational, exponential and
logarithmic functions, conic sections, and sequences and series.
ALGEBRA II Pre-AP Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra I and current math teacher’s recommendation Recommended Prerequisite: Geometry Course Description: This course extends and deepens the topics of
the regular course through real world and technology applications and
utilizes Pre-AP instructional strategies. A variety of problems will be
used to challenge the advanced mathematics student.
DISCRETE MATHEMATICS FOR COMPUTER SCIENCE Credit: 1.0 Prerequisites: Algebra II Special Notes: Counts as an advanced mathematics course Course Description: This course provides the tools used in most areas of computer science. Exposure to the mathematical concepts and discrete structures presented in this course is essential in order to provide an adequate foundation for further study. SEE COMPUTER SCIENCE COURSES FOR FULL DESCRIPTION. PRECALCULUS Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra I, Geometry and Algebra II Course Description: This course extends and integrates concepts from
Algebra and Geometry. Students use functions, equations, and limits
as useful tools for expressing generalizations and as means for
analyzing and understanding a broad variety of mathematical
relationships. Students use a variety of representations, tools, and
technology to model functions and equations to solve problems.
Topics include a study of polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic,
and trigonometric functions, inverse and second degree relations and
their graphs, complex numbers, polar coordinates, vectors, and
sequences and series. A student may not move on to Calculus after
this course, however they may move on to Statistics.
PRECALCULUS Pre-AP Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra II and current math teacher’s recommendation Course Description: This course extends and deepens the topics of the
regular course through real-world and technology application and
utilizes Pre-AP instructional strategies. Students use a variety of
representations, tools, and technology to model functions and
19 equations to solve problems. This course will rigorously emphasize
fundamentals of higher mathematics including a study of polynomial,
rational, exponential, logarithmic, and
trigonometric functions, inverse and second degree relations and their
graphs, complex numbers, polar coordinates, vectors, and sequences
and series. Students use functions, equations, and limits as useful
tools for expressing generalizations and as means for analyzing and
understanding a broad variety or mathematical relationships.
PRECALCULUS DC / MATH 1414 COLLEGE ALGEBRA and MATH 2412 PRECALCULUS MATH Credit: 1.0 / 8.0 Special Notes: If a student is enrolled in a class period that also
accommodates Pre-AP Precalculus students, these students may be
required to participate in AP activities as well.
MATH 1414 Prerequisites: Algebra II and meet all Alamo College’s admission requirements Course Description: In-depth study and applications of polynomial, rational, radical, exponential and logarithmic functions, and systems of equations using matrices. Additional topics such as sequences, series, probability, and conics may be included. MATH 2412 Prerequisites: MATH 1414 Course Description: In-depth combined study of algebra, trigonometry, and other topics for calculus readiness. Includes the study of elementary functions both algebraic and trigonometric, their graphs and applications. These functions include polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic and trigonometric.
AP CALCULUS AB Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Precalculus and current math teacher’s recommendation AP clarified prerequisites: Four years of mathematics courses designed for the college-bound student, which prepare them for a strong foundation in reasoning with algebraic symbols and working with algebraic structures. These courses should study algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry and elementary functions. Students should have basic familiarity with sequences and series, and exposure to polar equations. Recommended prerequisites: Precalculus Pre-AP and current math teacher’s recommendation Special Notes: Students enroll in either AP Calculus AB or BC based on
ability level Course Description: The purpose of this course is to provide the
student with an understanding of basic calculus concepts and
problem-solving methods for use in his/her chosen field or in further
mathematics studies. Topics include: limits of a function, continuity,
maxima and minima, area, volume, center of mass, rates of growth,
parametric, polar and vector functions, application of derivatives,
applications of integral, fundamentals theorem of calculus, techniques
of anti-differentiation, applications of anti-differentiation, and
polynomial approximations and series, and other applications, and
infinite sequences and series. Students completing this course will
receive two credits of college credit through St Philip's College.
Students will prepare to take the College Board Advanced Placement
Exam in Calculus AB.
AP CALCULUS BC Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Precalculus and current math teacher’s recommendation AP clarified prerequisites: Four years of mathematics courses designed for the college-bound student, which prepare them for a strong foundation in reasoning with algebraic symbols and working with algebraic structures. These courses should study algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry and elementary functions. Students should have basic familiarity with sequences and series, and exposure to polar equations. Recommended prerequisites: Precalculus Pre-AP and current math teacher’s recommendation Special Notes: Students enroll in either AP Calculus AB or BC based on
ability level Course Description: This course covers the topics seen in Calculus AB and provides advanced skills in methods and applications. The course emphasizes a multi-representational approach to calculus. Topics include parametric, polar and vector functions, application of derivatives, applications of integrals, fundamental theorem of calculus, techniques of antidifferentiation, applications of antidifferentatiation, and polynomial approximations and series. Students will prepare to take the College Board Advanced Placement Exam in Calculus BC.
STATISTICS Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Recommended Prerequisite: Algebra II
Course Description: Statistics is a course that involves the study of
four main areas: exploring data, sampling and experimentation,
anticipating patterns, and statistical inference. The course draws
connections between all aspects of the statistical process, including
design, analysis, and conclusions. The course teaches students how to
communicate methods, results, and interpretations using the
vocabulary of statistics. The course teaches students how to use
graphing calculators and demonstrates the use of computer output to
enhance the development of statistical understanding through
exploring and analyzing data, assessing models, and performing
simulations.
AP STATISTICS Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Algebra II
Course Description: AP Statistics is a course that introduces students
to the major concepts and tools for collecting analyzing, and drawing
conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual
themes: exploring data, planning a study, anticipating patterns and
statistical inference.
STATISTICS DC / MATH 1442 ELEMENTARY
STATISTICAL METHODS Credit: 1.0 / 4.0
Prerequisite: Algebra II and meet all Alamo College’s admission
requirements Special Notes: If a student is enrolled in a class period that also
accommodates AP Statistics students, these students may be required to
participate in AP activities as well.
Course Description: This full year dual credit course includes
collection, analysis, presentation, and interpretation on data, and
probability. Analysis includes descriptive statistics, correlation and
regression, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing.
COLLEGE PREPARATORY MATH Credit: 1.0
Course Description: In this college-preparatory course, students will
study relations and functions, inequalities as well as algebraic
expressions and equations. Those expressions and equations will
include absolute value, polynomial, radical and rational, with an
emphasis on linear and quadratic. This course is designed for students
who are not yet college ready (as indicated by EOC, PSAT, etc.) by the
spring semester of their 11th grade year.
20
SCIENCE
BIOLOGY I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: Students conduct field and laboratory investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical-thinking and scientific problem-solving. Students study: structures and functions of cells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues, and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; biological evolution; taxonomy; metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems; homeostasis; ecosystems; plants and the environment. Critical skills include communication, data analysis, critical thinking, use of computer technology and modem scientific equipment, and responsibility.
BIOLOGY I Pre-AP Credit: 1.0
Recommended prerequisites: Pre-AP Science course and current science teacher’s recommendation Course Description: Students in this advanced course investigate the same topics as the Biology course, enriched with higher level content and lab investigations. Independent research is an integral part of this course. There will be emphasis on data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and proper lab procedures.
AP BIOLOGY Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Biology I, Chemistry I and current science teacher’s recommendation Recommended prerequisite: Biology I Pre-AP Course Description: This course follows the AP guidelines. It meets the needs of the student who plans to major in Science or an allied field, as well as, the intellectually curious non-science member. Fundamental topics from Biology are covered in greater depth with three general areas of concentration: molecules and cells; genetics and evolution; and organisms and populations. Critical skills emphasized include communication, data analysis, critical thinking, use of computer technology and modem scientific equipment, as well as student responsibility. There will be emphasis on data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and proper lab procedures. INTEGRATED PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY Credit: 1.0
Recommended prerequisite: Biology I Course Description: Students conduct field and laboratory investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical-thinking and scientific problem-solving. This course integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry in the following topics: forces and motion, work and power, machines, waves, energy transformations properties of matter, changes and physical changes of matter, and solution chemistry. There will be emphasis on data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and proper lab procedures.
CHEMISTRY I Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Biology I and Geometry recommended or concurrent enrollment in Geometry Course Description: Students conduct field and laboratory investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical-thinking and scientific problem-solving. Students study a variety of topics that include: characteristics of matter; energy transformations during physical and chemical changes; atomic structure; periodic table of elements; behavior of gasses; bonding; nuclear fusion and nuclear fission; oxidation-reduction reactions; chemical equations; solutes; properties of solutions; acids and bases; and chemical reactions. Students will investigate how chemistry is an integral part of our daily lives. There will be emphasis on data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and proper lab procedures.
CHEMISTRY Pre-AP Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Biology I and Algebra II recommended or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II and current science teacher’s recommendation. Course Description: Students in this advanced course investigate the same topics as the chemistry course, enriched with high level content,
and advanced problem solving and lab investigations. Independent research is an integral part of this course. There will be emphasis on data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and proper lab procedures.
AP CHEMISTRY Credit: 1.0
Recommended Prerequisites: Chemistry I, Algebra II and current science teacher’s recommendation Course Description: This course follows the College Board Advanced Placement guidelines. It prepares students for the AP exam for which the student may receive college credit. Concepts presented on the college level include inorganic and organic chemistry, reaction rates, and thermodynamics. Computer technology enhances the concepts taught in this course. There will be emphasis on data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and proper lab procedures.
PHYSICS I Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Biology I, Chemistry I, and concurrent enrollment in Algebra II Course Description: Students conduct field and laboratory investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical-thinking and scientific problem-solving. Student study a variety of topics that include laws of motion; changes within physical systems; conservation of energy and momentum; force; thermodynamics; characteristics and behavior of waves and quantum physics. This course provides students with a conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical and scientific skills. This course will be enriched with advanced mathematical problem solving, challenging labs, and independent work. There will be emphasis on data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and proper lab procedures.
AP PHYSICS I Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Algebra II and current science teacher’s recommendation Course Description: This is an algebra-based course in general physics. General physics topics presented during the course follow those outlined by the college board and also mirrors an introductory level university physics course. Topics include, kinematics, dynamics, energy, momentum and circuits to name a few. Students will spend time in traditional formula-based learning as well as developing critical thinking and reasoning skills through laboratory investigations.
ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry Course Description: This course offers the student further study in human life science processes and structures. Laboratory and computer assisted dissections and study of related animal body parts facilitate understanding and knowledge necessary for careers in medical and health-related fields. Students will explore causes and effects of certain diseases, malfunctioning of organs and systems, as well as environmental factors. Critical skills emphasized include processing research information, computer skills for acquiring information, as well as furthering communication skills and student responsibility. A System Based investigating of the Human Body. There will be emphasis on data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and proper lab procedures.
ENVIRONMENTAL SYSTEMS Credit: 1.0
Course Description: This course is designed to enable a better understanding of man’s impact on our surroundings and the environmental needs of the future. Students study a variety of topics that include: biotic and abiotic factors in habitats; ecosystems and biomes; interrelationships among resources and an environmental system; sources and flow of energy through an environmental system; relationships between carrying capacity and changes in populations and ecosystems. Lab work, the use of multimedia and computer simulations, and laboratory and field investigations are important components of this course. There will be emphasis on data collection and analysis, critical thinking, and proper lab procedures.
21 FORENSIC SCIENCE Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry Course Description: Forensic Science is a course that uses a structured and scientific approach to the investigation of crimes of assault, abuse and neglect, domestic violence, accidental death, homicide, and the psychology of criminal behavior. Students will learn terminology and investigative procedures related to crime scene, questioning, interviewing, criminal behavior characteristics, truth detection, and scientific procedures used to solve crimes. Using
scientific methods, students will collect and analyze evidence through case studies and simulated crime scenes such as fingerprint analysis, ballistics, and blood spatter analysis. Students will learn the history, legal aspects, and career options for forensic science. Scientific decision making is a way of answering questions about the natural world. Students should be able to distinguish between scientific decision-making methods and ethical and social decisions that involve the application of scientific information.
SOCIAL STUDIES
WORLD GEOGRAPHY Credit: 1.0
Course Description: This course provides students with opportunities
to study the five themes of geography: location, place, human
environment interaction, movements, and regions. Content introduces
the student to the world geographers, their unique vocabulary, tools,
and methodologies. Students acquire an understanding of the physical
setting of the earth, locate and study different landforms and regions of
the world, learn how people and geography impact each other, and are
introduced to urban analysis. Content offers students the opportunity to
put into practice the geographical concepts and skills they have
accumulated throughout the social studies program beginning in the
elementary grades and in the Texas history courses.
WORLD GEOGRAPHY Pre-AP Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: current social studies teacher’s recommendation Course Description: This course provides an enriched world geography
program with a greater emphasis on logical reasoning, higher order
thinking skills, and problem solving. All topics and credits given for
world geography above apply to this course. Most students will have
completed eighth grade Pre-AP US History prior to enrolling in World
Geography Pre-AP.
WORLD HISTORY Credit: 1.0
Course Description: A survey course of the history of the world from
Prehistoric times to the present with emphasis on Western Civilization
and the rising Asian and African nations. Content of this course
includes the development of early civilization and other world regions
from their early days to the present. The course provides students the
opportunities to compare and analyze various ways of life and cultural
patterns that reflect the diversity and commonality of human
experiences and the understanding of how these patterns occur.
Geographic influences on world history are part of the study.
AP WORLD HISTORY Credit: 1.0
Recommended prerequisites: World Geography and current social studies teacher’s recommendation AP clarified prerequisites: Students should be able to read a college-level textbook and write grammatically correct, complete sentences. Course Description: The purpose of this course is to develop greater
understanding of the evolution of global processes and contact in
interaction with different types of human societies. Focused primarily
on the past thousand years of global experience, the course builds on
an understanding of cultural, institutional, and technological precedents
that, along with geography, set the human stage. Specific themes
provide further organization to the course. This course may be taken
in place of the regular World History course. Students may earn
college credit thorough the College Entrance Examination Board AP
Examination which is offered in May of each year. The students
enrolled in the class will take the AP exam in May. The fee for the AP
exam is paid for by the school. This course is writing and reading
intensive, and requires significant effort and organization.
UNITED STATES HISTORY Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: World Geography or World History Course Description: Content for the second year of study of United
States History includes significant individuals, issues, and events after
the period of Reconstruction to the present. The course continues the
focus on the history, geography, and political and economic growth of
the nation. It also continues the theme of cultural pluralism as a
characteristic of American society, past and present, as seen through a
global experience. Students study the emergence of the United States
as a world power. They learn how geography influences historical
developments, analyze economic development and growth,
understand the nation's social and cultural developments, and study
the political development of the United States from Reconstruction to
the present.
AP UNITED STATES HISTORY Credit: 1.0
Recommended prerequisites: World Geography Pre-AP or AP World History, and current social studies teacher’s recommendation AP clarified prerequisites: Students should be able to read a college-level textbook and write grammatically correct, complete sentences. Course Description: This advanced course in American history explores ideas, concepts, interpretation, and movements in American history from the early settlement of the Americas to the present. Broad themes of the course include the creation and evolution of political institutions, the role of America in the world, the development of the American economy, and the way in which the American people have lived. This course may be taken in place of the United States History. Students may earn college credit thorough the College Entrance Examination Board AP Examination which is offered in May of each year.
UNITED STATES HISTORY DC / HIST 1301 UNITED STATES I and HIST 1302 UNITED STATES II Credit: 1.0 / 6.0
Prerequisites: World Geography or World History, current social studies teacher’s recommendation, and meets all Alamo College’s Admission requirements Recommended prerequisites: Pre-AP or AP Social Studies course Special Notes: If a student is enrolled in a class period that also
accommodates AP US History students, these students may be required to
participate in AP activities as well.
Course Description: This advanced course in American history
explores ideas, concepts, interpretation, and movements in American
History from the early settlement of the Americas to the present.
Broad themes of the course include the creation and evolution of
political institutions, the role of America in the world, the development
of the American economy, and the way in which the American people
have lived. This course may be taken in place of the United States
History.
22 UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: World Geography, World History, and U.S. History. Course Description: This course provides an opportunity to study in
depth the foundation of the United States political system; to analyze
the political institutions, processes, and values of the system; to
analyze the structure and functions of the government on local, state,
and federal levels; and to study the major documents which will include
the Constitution, Bill of Rights, and Federalist Papers. Students put into
practice the content and concepts they have about responsibilities on
the civic level. Students will analyze the institutions and processes of
local, state, national, and other political systems. This course builds
upon knowledge gained in elementary grades and in earlier secondary
social studies courses.
AP UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS Credit: 0.5 Prerequisites: World Geography, World History, and U.S. History and current social studies teacher’s recommendation. Recommended prerequisites: Pre-AP or AP Social Studies course Course Description: This is a first-year college level course in American Government. The course is designed to examine, in depth, the Foundation of the American political system through an extensive review of the nation’s Constitution, its three branches of government, the policy making process of the government, the growth and development of political institutions and parties, the influence of the bureaucracy and media on policy making and a study of state and local government structures. Emphasis in the course will be placed on the development of research skills, the interpretation and analysis of primary and secondary documents and on writing of critical essays on political issues and problems. The course is ideally suited for those students planning to major in the Social Sciences or for those seeking advanced standing in college government should they desire to take the Advanced Placement Exam in government or to validate credit through other means. A strong writing background is pre-supposed as are good study habits and strong self-motivation. Students are encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Examination in May of each year. A summer reading program may be required.
ECONOMICS WITH EMPHASIS ON THE FREE ENTERPRISE SYSTEM Credit: 0.5
Prerequisites: World Geography, World History, and US History Course Description: This course provides opportunities for students to
study basic principles concerning production, consumption, and
distribution of goods and services. Content builds an understanding of
the essential components and benefits of the free enterprise system.
Students study such concepts as scarcity, economic interdependence,
the market system, prices, economic stability, and growth. They
examine the role of government in the American economic system,
and explore selected aspects of international economic systems.
PSYCHOLOGY Credit: 0.5
Course Description: This course gives students the opportunity to
study individual and group psychology. Students learn how the
knowledge, methods, and theories of psychologists applies to
analyzing human behavior. Course content is organized to help
students develop critical attitudes toward superficial generalizations
about human behavior, to recognize the tentativeness of propositions
about human behavior, and to achieve a better understanding of
human behavior in general.
SOCIOLOGY Credit: 0.5
Course Description: This course includes the nature of sociology,
culture, socialization, groups and institutions, communications and
cultural development and change. The concepts will remain constant;
however the content may vary depending on the student interest. The
students will have an opportunity to explore the major tools of the
science of Sociology. These will include, but are not limited to,
analyzing types of groups and interaction among groups,
understanding the impact of media on groups, and analyzing the
impact of science and technology upon people and cultures.
COMPUTER SCIENCE
FUNDAMENTALS OF COMPUTER SCIENCE Credit: 1.0
Recommended prerequisite: Touch Systems Data Entry Course Description: Students will learn about the computing tools used every day. Students will foster their creativity and innovation by designing, implementing, and presenting solutions to real-world problems. Students will use computer science concepts to access, analyze, and evaluate information needed to solve problems. By using computer science knowledge and skills that support the work of individuals and groups, students will select the technology appropriate for the task, synthesize knowledge, create solutions, and evaluate the results. Students will learn digital citizenship by researching current laws and regulations and by practicing integrity and respect. Students will gain an understanding of the principles of computer science through the study of technology operations and concepts.
COMPUTER SCIENCE / UT COMPUTER SCIENCE 302 COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES: THRIVING IN OUR DIGITAL WORLD Credit: 1.0 / 3.0
Prerequisites: Algebra I and Algebra II or concurrent enrollment in Algebra II, Fundamentals of Computer Science, and current Computer Science teacher’s recommendation Course Description: A computer science course that does not require any previous background in programming. Instead, it focuses on the power, beauty, and joy of computing and shows how computing impacts almost every aspect of our lives. Students learn how computational thinking can help solve real-world problems in varied fields such as forensics, social networking, and artificial intelligence. Students also develop basic programming skills, Texas College and Career Readiness skills, apply critical thinking, problem solve and communicate within a project-based learning framework.
AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Computer Science Pre-AP AP Clarified Prerequisites: The student should have a basic understanding of English and Algebra and be comfortable with functions and the concepts found in the uses of function notation. The course builds on the students existing foundation in mathematical reasoning acquired before the course. Special Notes: The course meets fourth year math credit for the recommended and distinguished program. Course Description: This course is both a college-prep course for potential computer science majors and a foundation course for students planning to study in other technical fields such as engineering, physics, chemistry, and geology. Students will write programs in the JAVA and HTML programming languages using advanced computer science concepts such as encapsulation, inheritance, boolean logic, arrays, control structures, methods and object oriented programming. The course emphasizes programming methodology, procedural abstraction, and in-depth study of algorithms, data structures, and data abstractions, as well as a detailed examination of a large case study program. Instruction includes preparation for the AP Computer Science A Exam. This course counts for the one credit required for the Technology Applications graduation credit.
23 COMPUTER SCIENCE III - INDEPENDENT STUDY Credit: 1.0 Pre-requisites: Computer Sci. Pre-AP and AP Computer Science Course Description: Computer Science III will foster students' creativity and innovation by presenting opportunities to design, implement, and present meaningful programs through a variety of media. Students will collaborate in various electronic communities to solve the problems. Through data analysis, students will identify task requirements, plan search strategies, and use computer science concepts to access, analyze, and evaluate information needed to solve problems. Students will select the technology appropriate for the task, synthesize knowledge, create solutions, and evaluate the results. Students will learn digital citizenship by researching current laws and regulations and by practicing integrity and respect. Students will gain an understanding of advanced computer science data structures through the study of technology operations, systems, and concept.
DISCRETE MATHEMATICS Credit: 1.0
Pre-requisites: Algebra II Course Description: This course provides the tools used in most areas of computer science. Exposure to the mathematical concepts and discrete structures presented in this course is essential in order to provide an adequate foundation for further study. Discrete Mathematics for Computer Science is generally listed as a core requirement for Computer Science majors. Course topics are divided into six areas: sets, functions, and relations; basic logic; proof techniques; counting basics; graphs and trees; and discrete probability. Mathematical topics are interwoven with computer science applications to enhance the students' understanding of the introduced mathematics. Students will develop the ability to see computational problems from a mathematical perspective. Introduced to a formal system (propositional and predicate logic) upon which mathematical reasoning is based, students will acquire the necessary knowledge to read and construct mathematical arguments (proofs), understand mathematical statements (theorems), and use mathematical problem-solving tools and strategies. Students will be introduced to discrete data structures such as sets, discrete functions, and relations and graphs and trees. Students will also be introduced to discrete probability and expectations.
BUSINESS AND INDUSTRY PRINCIPLES OF ARTS, AUDIO/VIDEO TECHNOLOGY, AND COMMUNICATIONS – CTE Credit: 1.0 Course Description: In addition to creative aptitude, this course develops a strong background in applications, and a proficiency in oral and written communication. Students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.
COMMERICAL PHOTOGRAPHY I – CTE Credit: 1.0
Recommended Prerequisite: Principles of Arts, A/V Technology and Communications Course Description: Careers in commercial photography require skills that span all aspects of the industry from setting up a shot to delivering products in a competitive market. Within this context, while developing knowledge and skills for success in this career, students will understand of the industry with a focus on creating quality photographs.
COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY I Lab – CTE Credit: 1.0 Recommended Prerequisites: Principles of Arts, A/V Technology and Communications Required Corequisite: Commercial Photography I Course Description: Students will develop an advanced technical understanding of the commercial photography industry with a focus on producing, promoting, and presenting professional quality photographs. COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY II – CTE Credit: 1.0
Recommended Prerequisites: Principles of Arts, A/V Technology and Communications and Commercial Photography I Course Description: Students will develop an advanced technical understanding of the commercial photography industry with a focus on producing, promoting, and presenting professional quality photographs.
COMMERCIAL PHOTOGRAPHY II Lab – CTE Credit: 1.0 Recommended Prerequisites: Principles of Arts, A/V Technology and Communications and Commercial Photography I Required Corequisite: Commercial Photography II Course Description: Students will develop an advanced technical understanding of the commercial photography industry with a focus on
producing, promoting, and presenting professional quality photographs. PROFESSIONAL COMMUNICATIONS Credit: 0.5
Special Note: Course meets requirements for the communication applications credit. Course Description: Blends written, oral, and graphic communication in a career-based environment. Careers in the global economy require individuals to be creative and have a strong background in computer and technology applications, a strong, solid academic foundation, and a proficiency in professional oral and written communication. Within this context, students will be expected to develop and expand the ability to write, read, edit, speak, listen, apply software applications, manipulate computer graphics, and conduct Internet research.
TOUCH SYSTEMS DATA ENTRY – CTE Credit: 0.5
Course Description: Basic skills are learned through correct keyboarding techniques and skill building drills for speed and accuracy using computers. Students will introduce personal notes, enumerations, personal business letters, business letters, memoranda, envelopes, horizontal and vertical centering. The student will also proofread, make corrections and compose. Emphasis is on active listening and decision-making.
MONEY MATTERS - CTE Credit: 1.0
Course Description: Students will investigate global economics and its impact on consumers and businesses. Students apply critical-thinking skills to analyze financial options based on current and projected economic factors. Students will gain skills necessary to set and determine long-term financial goals through investment, tax planning, asset allocation, risk management, retirement planning, and estate planning.
BUSINESS INFORMATION MANAGEMENT II – CTE Credit: 1.0 Prerequisite: Business Information Management I Recommended Prerequisite: Touch Systems Data Entry Course Description: Students implement personal and interpersonal skills to strengthen individual performance in the workplace and in society and make a successful transition to the workforce and post-secondary education. Student apply technical skills to address business applications of emerging technologies, create complex word-processing documents, develop sophisticated spreadsheets using charts and graphs, formulate databases, and make electronic presentations using appropriate software. Students will be able to test for Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint certification.
24 INTRODUCTION TO CULINARY ARTS – CTE Credit: 1.0
Course Description: This course will emphasize the principles of planning, organizing, staffing, directing, and controlling the management of a variety of food service operations. This course will provide insight into the operation of a well-run restaurant. Students are encouraged to participate in extended learning experiences such as career and technical student organizations and other leadership or extracurricular organizations. Student must pass safety test with 100% mastery. This course is a required prerequisite for Culinary Arts.
CULINARY ARTS – CTE Credit: 2.0
Recommended Prerequisites: Introduction to Culinary Arts Course Description: This course begins with the fundamentals and principles of the art of cooking and the science of baking and includes management and production skills and techniques. Students qualify for a national sanitation certification. This course is offered as a laboratory-based course. Students are encouraged to participate in extended learning experiences such a s career and technical and student organizations and other leadership or extracurricular organizations.
ADVANCED CULINARY ARTS – CTE Credit: 2.0
Prerequisite: Culinary Arts and Family Consumer Science Teacher’s Recommendation Course Description: This is a lab-based class that extends content and enhances skills introduced in Culinary Arts by in-depth instruction of industry-driven standards in order to prepare students for success in higher education, certifications and/or immediate employment. Students are encouraged to participate in extended learning experiences such a s career and technical and student organizations and other leadership or extracurricular organizations.
PRINTING AND IMAGING TECHNOLOGY I – CTE Credit: 1.0 Recommended Prerequisite: Principles of Arts, A/V Technology and Communications
Course Description: In addition to creative aptitude, this course develops a strong background in applications, and a proficiency in oral and written communication. Students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.
PRINTING AND IMAGING TECHNOLOGY II – CTE Credit: 1.0
Recommended Prerequisite: Principles of Arts, A/V Technology and Communications
Course Description: In addition to creative aptitude, this course develops a strong background in applications, and a proficiency in oral and written communication. Students will be expected to develop an understanding of the various and multifaceted career opportunities in this cluster and the knowledge, skills, and educational requirements for those opportunities.
DEBATE I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: Students will be introduced to the logical argumentation that takes place in policy-making and value debate. The student will analyze a specific topic question, research to find evidence, and develop affirmative and negative case positions. Co-curricular involvement in speech activities and contests is an integral requirement of this course.
DEBATE II Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Debate I Course Description: Advanced debate theory and practice will be the focus of the course, refining the student’s skills in analysis, research, organization, synthesis, evaluation, and speaking. Co-curricular involvement in speech activities and contests is an integral requirement of this course.
DEBATE III Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Debate II Course Description: Advanced debate theory and practice will be the focus of the course, referring the student’s skills in analysis, research, organization, synthesis, evaluation, and speaking. Depth and breadth of study will be expanded so as to require the student to carry out individualized assignments which will enhance and enlarge the opportunities for higher level thinking and problem solving. Co-curricular involvement in speech activities and contests is an integral requirement of this course.
PUBLIC SERVICES PRINCIPLES OF HEALTH SCIENCE – CTE Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Principles of Health Science and Biology Course Description: The course provides an overview of the therapeutic, diagnostic, health informatics, support services, and biotechnology research and development systems of the health care industry. To pursue a career in the health science industry, students should learn to reason, think critically, make decisions, solve problems, and communicate effectively. Students should recognize that quality health care depends on the ability to work well with others. The health science industry is comprised of diagnostic, therapeutic, health informatics, support services, and biotechnology research and development systems that function individually and collaboratively to provide comprehensive health care. Students should identify the employment opportunities, technology, and safety requirements of each system. Students are expected to apply the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a health science career through further education and employment. Professional integrity in the health science industry is dependent on acceptance of ethical and legal responsibilities. Students are expected to employ their ethical and legal responsibilities and limitations and understand the implications of their actions.
HEALTH SCIENCE THEORY – CTE Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Principles of Health Science and Biology Course Description: The course is designed to provide for the development of advanced knowledge and skills related to a wide variety of health careers. Students will have hands-on experiences for continued knowledge and skill development. To pursue a career in the health science industry, students should recognize, learn to reason, think critically, make decisions, solve problems, and communicate effectively. Students should recognize that quality health care depends on the ability to work well with others. The health science industry is comprised of diagnostic, therapeutic, health informatics, support services, and biotechnology research and development systems that function individually and collaboratively to provide comprehensive health care. Students should identify the employment opportunities, technology, and safety requirements of each system. Students are expected to apply the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a health science career through further education and employment. Professional integrity in the health science industry is dependent on acceptance of ethical and legal responsibilities. Students are expected to employ their ethical and legal responsibilities, recognize limitations, and understand the implications of their actions.
25 PRACTICUM IN HEALTH SCIENCE – CTE Credit: 2.0
Prerequisites: Principles of Health Science, Health Science and Biology Course Description: The Practicum is designed to give students practical application of previously studied knowledge and skills. Practicum experiences can occur in a variety of locations appropriate to the nature and level of experience. To pursue a career in the health science industry, students should learn to reason, think critically, make decisions, solve problems, and communicate effectively. Students should recognize that quality health care depends on the ability to work well with others. The health science industry is comprised of diagnostic, therapeutic, health informatics, support services, and biotechnology research and development systems that function individually and collaboratively to provide comprehensive health care. Students should identify the employment opportunities, technology, and safety requirements of each system. Students are expected to apply the knowledge and skills necessary to pursue a health science career through further education and employment. Professional integrity in the health science industry is dependent on acceptance of ethical and legal responsibilities. Students are expected to employ their ethical and legal responsibilities and limitations and understand the implications of their actions.
JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICER TRAINING CORPS - JROTC I - IV Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Citizenship: The student must be U.S. citizen or national. Immigrants who have been lawfully admitted for permanent residence In the United States are authorized to participate in JROTC; Age: The student must be at least 14 years old; Physical: Must be capable to participate In the physical fitness program that may be part of the JROTC curriculum or an extension of it; Senior Army Instructor (SAI) Selection: JROTC II, III, IV students are selected by the SAI with the approval of the school officials.
Course Description: A one - to - four-year course designed to aid and
motivate young people to be better citizens through: Developing
informed and responsible citizens; developing their leadership
potential; Strengthening their character through the teaching of values
associated with service life; promoting and understanding the historical
role of the citizen soldier in a democratic society; developing the ability
to logically arrange thoughts and communicate effectively, orally and in
writing; developing an appreciation of the values of physical and
mental fitness; developing the best skills necessary to work effectively
as a team member; developing an interest in the military services as a
possible career.
JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICER TRAINING CORPS - DRILL Credit: Local
Prerequisites: Must be formally enrolled In Junior Reserve Officers Training Corps program SAI selects members Course Description: A one - to - three-year course designed to aid
students to become more accomplished in skills required for ROTC
leadership development. Cadets develop leadership and instructional
techniques to assist in overall operation of the JROTC battalion.
ARTS AND HUMANITIES ART I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: This full year course is an introduction to visual awareness. Art I is the prerequisite course for the comprehensive high school art program and fulfills the one-credit fine arts graduation requirement. Student projects are designed to build creative and critical thinking skills through practice in drawings, painting, printmaking, sculpture, crafts and other art disciplines.
ART II Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Art I and current art teacher’s recommendation Course Description: This course challenges students to refine their skills in fine arts media usage and creative problem-solving. Art projects become increasingly complex and require students to participate in art competitions throughout the year.
ART III Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Art II and current art teacher’s recommendation Course Description: This course begins the development of the body of work leading to the AP portfolio. It is recommended for students who have demonstrated ability to complete challenging work successfully at a demanding pace. Emphasis is placed on creative problem-solving, independent research and learning, task commitment and special topics.
AP STUDIO ART: 2D PORTFOLIO Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Art II or higher and current art teacher’s recommendation Course Description: Production of this portfolio asks students to become independent thinkers and develop a body of work informed by research of contemporary and master artists, cultural exemplars and peer dialogue. The portfolio reflects 12 breath of experiences pieces, 12 pieces concentrating on a specific theme, and 5 quality executions of artworks. The course continues the development of the body of work begun in Art III.
AP STUDIO ART: 2D PHOTOGRAPHY PORTFOLIO Credit: 1.0 Recommended Prerequisites: Principles of Arts, A/V Technology and Communications and Commercial Photography I Course Description: Production of this portfolio asks students to become independent thinkers and develop a body of work informed by commercial photography best practices. The portfolio reflects 12 breath of experiences pieces, 12 pieces concentrating on a specific theme, and 5 quality executions of artworks.
AP STUDIO ART: 3D PORTFOLIO Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Art II or higher and current art teacher’s recommendation Course Description: Production of this portfolio asks students to become independent thinkers and develop a body of work informed by research of contemporary and master artists, cultural exemplars and peer dialogue. The portfolio reflects 12 breath of experiences pieces, 12 pieces concentrating on a specific theme, and 5 quality executions of artworks. The course continues the development of the body of work begun in Art III.
AP STUDIO ART: DRAWING Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Art II or higher and current art teacher’s recommendation Course Description: Production of this portfolio asks students to become independent thinkers and develop a body of work informed by research of contemporary and master artists, cultural exemplars and peer dialogue. The portfolio reflects 12 breath of experiences pieces, 12 pieces concentrating on a specific theme, and 5 quality executions of artworks. The course continues the development of the body of work begun in Art III. AP Portfolio assessment participation is optional.
26 BAND Beginning, Intermediate, Varsity I, II, III, IV Credit: 1.0 Prerequisite: Placement by audition Special Notes: Physical education credit may be earned for the semester incorporating marching band. Course Description: Fall semester - marching band is the primary performing organization. Appearances at pep rallies, football games, parades, and other community gatherings require a substantial amount of out-of-school practice for students enrolled in the course. Our school may offer concert band activities in addition to the marching band during the fall semester. Spring semester - A high degree of proficiency on their instrument may allow for scheduling into the concert band. Members will perform the most difficult of wind/percussion literature. Additional time commitments required.
CHOIR I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: This course will explore and study basic vocal and choral techniques including good tone production, dictation, balance and blend, and artistic interpretation of the composer's intent. Music theory and sight singing will be part of the curriculum with performance opportunities available. Competitive activities are a part of this program.
CHOIR II, III, IV Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Choir I Course Description: This course will explore and study basic vocal and choral techniques including good tone production, dictation, balance and blend, and artistic interpretation of the composer's intent. Music theory and sight singing will be part of the curriculum with performance opportunities available. Competitive activities are a part of this program.
TECHNICAL THEATRE I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: This course afford students the opportunity to develop and exercise creativity, intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, problem solving, and collaborative skills. Participation and evaluation in a variety of theatrical experiences will afford students opportunities to develop an understanding of self and their role in the world.
THEATRE ARTS I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: This course is designed as a survey course, providing the student with an intense sampling of all facts of theatre, with an emphasis placed on actor training. The subject matter will range from stage terminology, structure, of plays, and early theatrical history to vocal and movement. Also included will be improvisation, character analysis, and duet/group acting, stage design and construction, lighting, costuming and makeup. Co-curricular involvement in productions, contests, and other such activities is an integral part of this program.
ADVANCED THEATRE ARTS - THEATER II Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Theater Arts I Course Description: Course emphasizes advanced study in acting and design. Course units will include the study of advanced acting techniques and application of the design elements for the stage through group and individual projects. Production styles and performances are discussed and the basic principles of performance are analyzed extensively. Involvement in co-curricular productions, contests, and other such activities is an integral part of this program.
ADVANCED THEATRE ARTS - THEATER III Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Theater Arts II Course Description: Course emphasizes advanced study in acting and design. Course units will include the study of advanced acting techniques and application of the design elements for the stage through group and individual projects. Production styles and performances are discussed and the basic principles of performance are analyzed extensively. Involvement in co-curricular productions, contests, and other such activities is an integral part of this program.
ADVANCED THEATRE ARTS - THEATER IV Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Theater Arts III Course Description: Course emphasizes advanced study in acting and design. Course units will include the study of advanced acting techniques and application of the design elements for the stage through group and individual projects. Production styles and performances are discussed and the basic principles of performance are analyzed extensively. Involvement in co-curricular productions, contests, and other such activities is an integral part of this program.
FRENCH I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: French I is the first course of a recommended three year sequence designed to develop the fundamental language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The emphasis of French I is the development of oral language. The study of introductory vocabulary, phonetics, and grammar are included. The culture and civilization of the French-speaking world is integrated into all aspects of the course.
FRENCH II Credit: 1.0
Course Description: The second year of French is a continuation of the development of the fundamental language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing with added emphasis on oral proficiency. Vocabulary and more complex grammatical structures are emphasized along with relevant cultural topics.
FRENCH III Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: French II Course Description: The French III program continues the development of proficiency in all four fundamental skills with concentration on oral communication. The French III student will read and discuss in French a variety of cultural and literary selections. A more sophisticated use of French will be fostered through writing and conversational opportunities.
FRENCH IV Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: French III Course Description: The fourth year of French includes advanced conversation, discussion, grammar and composition with intensive readings of literature and current periodicals. The study of relevant cultural topics continues.
SPANISH I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: Spanish I is the first course of a four year sequence designed to develop the fundamental language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The emphasis of Spanish I is the development of oral language. The study of introductory vocabulary, phonetics, and grammar are included. The culture and civilization of the Spanish-speaking world is integrated into all aspects of the course.
SPANISH II Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Spanish I Course Description: The second year of Spanish is a continuation of the development of the fundamental language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing with added emphasis on oral proficiency. Now vocabulary and more complex grammatical structures are emphasized along with relevant cultural topics.
SPANISH III Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Spanish II Course Description: The Spanish III program continues the development of proficiency in all four fundamental skills with concentration on oral communication. The Spanish III student will read and discuss in Spanish a variety of cultural and literary selections. A more sophisticated use of Spanish will be fostered through writing and conversational opportunities.
SPANISH IV Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Spanish III Course Description: Spanish IV continues to build upon the knowledge and skills acquired in prior years of study. The students will focus on
27 using Spanish to communicate in conversational and other informal settings and on reading and analyzing selected literary works.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND ATHLETICS
PHYSICAL EDUCATION INDIVIDUAL SPORTS Credit: 0.5 Course Description: Students participate in individual sports. Students will learn about motor skills and movement, participation in physical recreation activities, practice reflective and good sportsmanship as well as understand the relationship between physical activity and health.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION TEAM SPORTS Credit: 0.5
Course Description: Students participate in team activities using team concepts. The development of abilities and opportunities to maintain a high level of fitness, rules and skills of the game, and good sportsmanship will be emphasized.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION EQUIVALENT – ATHLETICS Credit: 1.0 Prerequisite: Coaches' recommendations Course Description: Participation in specific athletic programs with concurrent enrollment in an athletics period for football, volleyball, basketball and swimming.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION EQUIVALENT – MARCHING BAND I, II, III, IV (Varsity, Intermediate, Beginning) Credit: up to 1.0 Prerequisite: Placement by audition Course Description: Marching band is the primary performing organization. Appearances at pep rallies, football games, parades, and community gatherings require substantial out-of-school practice for students enrolled in the course. Our school may offer concert band activities in addition to the marching band during the fall semester.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION EQUIVALENT – ATHLETICS JUNIOR RESERVE OFFICER TRAINING CORPS - JROTC I - IV Credit: 1.0
Prerequisites: Citizenship: The student must be U.S. citizen or national. Immigrants who have been lawfully admitted for permanent residence In the United States are authorized to participate in JROTC; Age: The student must be at least 14 years old; Physical: Must be capable to participate In the physical fitness program that may be part of the JROTC curriculum or an extension of it; Senior Army Instructor (SAI) Selection: JROTC II, III, IV students are selected by the SAI with the approval of the school officials. Course Description: A one - to - four-year course designed to aid and motivate young people to be better citizens through: Developing informed and responsible citizens; developing their leadership potential; Strengthening their character through the teaching of values associated with service life; promoting and understanding the historical role of the citizen soldier in a democratic society; developing the ability to logically arrange thoughts and communicate effectively, orally and in writing; developing an appreciation of the values of physical and mental fitness; developing the best skills necessary to work effectively as a team member; developing an interest in the military services as a possible career. NOTE: For information concerning credit for off-campus physical education experiences, see the Parent/Student Handbook and apply through the appropriate counselor.
GENERAL ELECTIVES
ACADEMIC DECATHLON Credit: Local
Prerequisite: Teacher’s recommendation Course Description: This course is designed to prepare students for the national Academic Decathlon competition. After school hours and independent study are required. This course prepares students to compete in UIL competition at the district, regional, and state levels.
HEALTH EDUCATION Credit: 0.5
Special Note: Meets health education credit for recommended and distinguish achievement program. Course Description: Health is a required course designed to be taken in the first year of high school. It includes the study of the human body and the functions of the systems, drug abuse, first aid, CPR, diseases, stress, relationships, nutrition, exercise, health agencies, and sex education.
HUMAN GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT – CTE Credit: 1.0 Course Description: The course is an examination of human
development across the lifespan with emphasis upon research,
theoretical perspectives, and common physical, cognitive, emotional,
and social developmental milestones. The course covers material that
is generally taught in a postsecondary, one-semester introductory
course in developmental psychology or human development.
MEDIA CENTER ASSISTANT Credit: Local
Prerequisite: Librarian Recommendation Course Description: Students enrolled in the course will assist Cole Librarians for one period per day. They will act as aides for the teachers in the media center. No grade will be given for this course.
OFFICE ASSISTANT Credit: Local
Prerequisite: Office Staff Recommendation Course Description: Students enrolled in the course will assist Cole administration for one period per day. They will act as aides for the personnel in the main office or the library. No grade will be given for this course.
P.A.S.S. Credit: Local
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation Course Description: This course is MANDATED by the State of Texas for any student who does not meet standard on a STAAR test. A student MUST take this course to receive intervention instruction to bring the student up to State Standards.
ONLINE SAT/ACT PREPARATION Credit: Local
Course Description: This one semester course concentrates on successfully preparing students to take the college entrance examinations such as the SAT and ACT. Both subject content and test taking skills will be emphasized.
SENIOR EARLY RELEASE Credit: 0
Prerequisite: Administrator’s Approval; senior must have passed all sections of the state assessment and have credits to graduate on time. Special Notes: In the event that a student falls from good academic standing while enrolled in this course, the student will be removed from this course. Course Description: Students with serious discipline issues may not receive administrative approval. Students may be released for no more than one period. Student may not be on any FSHISD campus during
28 the early release periods without written permission from an administrator. Student must provide his/her own transportation.
SPORTS MEDICINE I Credit: 1.0
Course Description: This course is designed to prepare students in the science of injury prevention, treatment, and rehabilitation related to sport injuries. Students will receive hands-on experience with evaluations of sport-related injuries, various taping and wrapping techniques, and rehabilitation, as well as the proper techniques and procedures for emergency situations.
SPORTS MEDICINE II Credit: 1.0
Prerequisite: Sports Medicine I Course Description: This course provides an in-depth study and application of the components of sports medicine including, but not limited to: basic rehabilitative techniques; therapeutic modalities; wound care, taping and bandaging techniques; prevention, recognition, and care of musculoskeletal injuries; injuries to the young athlete; drugs in sports; and modern issues in sports medicine. Individualized and independent assignments will be included in this course.
STUDENT-2-STUDENT Credit: Local
Prerequisites: Interview and Committee Selection, Applications from S2S Sponsor Course Description: A Course for selected high school students to work as peer helpers to the incoming new students on the campus. Students should be good ambassadors of the school and community. Students are mentors to others.
STUDENT LEADERSHIP Credit: Local
Course Description: This course, developed by the Texas Association of Secondary School Principals, provides an opportunity for students to study, practice, and develop group and individual leadership and organizational skills.
TEACHER ASSISTANT Credit: Local
Prerequisite: Teacher Recommendation Course Description: Students enrolled in the course will assist Cole teachers for one period per day. They will act as aides for the teachers in their classrooms. A pass/fail grade will be given for this course.
SPECIAL EDUCATION ELECTIVES
STUDY SKILLS I, II, III, IV Credit: Local
Prerequisite: Qualified Special Education Student/ ARD/IEP Committee Recommendation Course Description: This course is designed for students identified as
having special education needs who are mainstreamed into a majority
of regular classes. It this class, students receive remedial or tutorial
assistance with their subjects. Emphasis is placed on developing
study skills, organizational skills, problem solving, communication and
decision-making skills. In addition, students may receive support in
coping with every day stressors through review of daily agendas/point
systems.
CAREER PREPARATION I-II Credit: 2.0-3.0
Prerequisite: Qualified Special Education Student/ ARD/IEP Committee Recommendation Course Description: This course emphasizes development of skills
necessary for placement in a work setting. Independent, cooperative
and group activities are provided in a combination of school and
community-based instructional settings. Functional academic training
is included as appropriate.
29
Campus Commitment The campus believes Pre-Advanced Placement courses are intended to help prepare students for the advanced expectations of Advanced Placement and Dual Credit courses. The campus commits to advanced academics by communicating the value of advanced coursework, recruiting students with potential for success, encouraging student commitment, and supporting advanced academics instruction.
Student Commitment The student commits to recognizing the long term benefits of active participation. I will be persistent in my studies because these
courses will be challenging. I will organize my time and put forth effort as
these courses are time intensive, rigorous and require full commitment.
In the event that I encounter difficulties with the content, I will follow the 3-Weeks 3-Ways protocol.
Student Understandings I understand late work and retests are
discouraged. I will work to eliminate this academic behavior throughout the year.
I recognize plagiarism and cheating are not tolerated. Plagiarism and cheating will result in a zero for the assignment and academic probation. Another incident may result in removal from the course.
I understand that course changes will be contingent on space availability, extenuating circumstances, and the timing of the request.
I understand that participation in advanced coursework prepares me for college, increases my chances of finishing a college degree in four years and earning a higher college GPA.
If I fail a grading period and have participated in the 3-Weeks 3-Ways intervention program, or continuously partake in unacceptable behaviors that negatively affect my performance, these will be indicators that I am not properly placed. At this point, I will conference with my teacher and parent to discuss the situation, and I will be removed from the course.
Parent Commitment The parent commits to supporting student learning in the advanced placement program; by supporting teacher efforts to provide rigorous, quality instruction and by valuing the learning that occurs. I will familiarize myself with the course content
and requirements. I will encourage my child to be prepared for class
every day. I will help my child organize his or her time and efforts.
If my child encounters difficulties with the course content, I will expect my child to participate in the 3-Weeks 3-Ways intervention system.
Parent Understandings I understand late work and retests are not
permitted. I will support my child in eliminating this academic behavior throughout the year.
I recognize plagiarism and cheating are not tolerated. Plagiarism and cheating will result in a zero and academic probation. Another incident may result in my child’s removal from the course.
I understand that schedule changes will be contingent on space availability, extenuating circumstances, and the timing of the request.
I understand that advanced academic courses may seem challenging for my child.
If my child fails a grading period, and has participated in the 3-Weeks 3-Ways intervention program, or continuously partakes in unacceptable behaviors that negatively affect his/her performance, these will be indicators that s/he is not properly placed. At this point, I will conference with the teacher and my child to discuss the situation, and my child will be removed from the course.
ADVANCED ACADEMICS AGREEMENTS
ROBERT G. COLE MIDDLE/ HIGH SCHOOL
Pre-Advanced Placement Agreement
30
Pre-AP Teacher Commitment The teacher commits to pre-advanced academics by encouraging student participation, planning for student learning, providing rigorous, quality instruction, and offering assistance for struggling students.
I will teach the course following the curriculum as aligned with the The College Board and NMSI course descriptions and requirements.
I will provide 3-Weeks 3-Ways Intervention supports for students that need it. I will teach the course following IEP or 504 requirements as authorized by FSHISD and legal mandate. I will provide meaningful, relevant instruction. I will give ample opportunities for students to be successful. I will provide appropriate tutorial opportunities for students who have difficulty with course content. I will keep grades current by ensuring that progress reports and reports card are reflective of each student’s
performance and progress.
31
Campus Commitment The campus commits to advanced academics by communicating the value of advanced coursework, recruiting students with potential for success, encouraging student commitment, and supporting advanced academics instruction. The campus pays for all AP exams and all students are required to sit for the exams. If a student does not show up for the required exam, he/she must reimburse the school for the cost of that exam. The campus in collaboration with the National Math and Science Institute (NMSI) will offer three Student Study Sessions for Math, Science and English AP courses throughout the year, and put in place the 3-Weeks 3-Ways Intervention Program to ensure students reach their highest potential before withdrawing from an AP course.
Student Commitment The student commits to recognizing the long term benefits of active participation. I will be persistent in my studies because these
courses will be challenging. I will organize my time and put forth effort as these
courses are time intensive, rigorous and require full commitment.
I will do my best to attend all three student study sessions for all Math, Science and English AP course I am enrolled in.
In the event that I encounter difficulties with the content, I will follow the 3-Weeks 3-Ways protocol.
Student Understandings I understand late work and retests are not
permitted.
I recognize plagiarism and cheating are not tolerated. Plagiarism and cheating will result in a zero for the assignment and automatic removal from the course.
I understand that course changes will be contingent on space availability, extenuating circumstances, and the timing of the request.
I understand that participation in advanced coursework prepares me for college, increases my chances of finishing a college degree in four years and earning a higher college GPA.
If I fail a grading period and have participated in the 3-Weeks 3-Ways intervention program, or continuously partake in unacceptable behaviors
that negatively affect my performance, these will be indicators that I am not properly placed. At this point, I will conference with my teacher and parent to discuss the situation, and I will be removed from the course.
Parent Commitment The parent commits to supporting student learning in the advanced placement program; by supporting teacher efforts to provide rigorous, quality instruction and by valuing the learning that occurs. I will familiarize myself with the course content
and requirements. I will encourage my child to be prepared for class
every day. I will help my child organize his or her time and efforts. I will help my child prioritize attendance at the Student Study Sessions.
If my child encounters difficulties with the course content, I will expect my child to participate in the 3-Weeks 3-Ways intervention system.
Parent Understandings I understand late work and retests are not
permitted. I recognize plagiarism and cheating are not
tolerated. Plagiarism and cheating will result in a zero for the assignment and automatic removal from the course.
I understand that schedule changes will be contingent on space availability, extenuating circumstances, and the timing of the request.
I understand that advanced academic courses may seem challenging for my child.
If my child fails a grading period, and has participated in the 3-Weeks 3-Ways intervention program, or continuously partakes in unacceptable behaviors that negatively affect his/her performance, these will be indicators that s/he is not properly placed. At this point, I will conference with the teacher and my child to discuss the situation, and my child will be removed from the course.
ROBERT G. COLE HIGH SCHOOL
Advanced Placement Agreement
32
AP Teacher Commitment The teacher commits to advanced academics by encouraging student participation, planning for student learning, providing rigorous, quality instruction, and offering assistance for struggling students.
I will teach the course following the curriculum as authorized by The College Board and NMSI. I will provide 3-Weeks 3-Ways Intervention supports for students that need it. I will teach the course following IEP or 504 requirements as authorized by FSHISD and legal mandate. I will provide meaningful, relevant instruction at a college level. I will give ample opportunities for students to be successful. I will provide appropriate tutorial opportunities for students who have difficulty with course content. I will keep grades current by ensuring that progress reports and reports card are reflective of each student’s
performance and progress. I may implement Pre-AP scaffolding measures at my discretion.
33
Campus Commitment
The campus commits to advanced academics by communicating the value of advanced coursework, recruiting
students with potential for success, encouraging student commitment, and supporting advanced academics instruction. The campus Dual Credit Coordinator and Counselor commit to providing support systems for
students upon request.
Student Commitment
The student commits to recognizing the long term benefits of participation and seeking assistance when needed. I will be persistent because these courses will
seem challenging at first, but initial grades may not reflect later grades in the course.
In the event that I encounter difficulties with content, I will conference with my teacher and attend recommended tutorials.
Student Understandings
I understand that participation in advanced coursework prepares me well for college, increases my chances of finishing a college degree in four years and earning a higher GPA.
I understand that if I receive a D or F in a course, I shall not participate in a dual credit course for one year. (per Alamo Colleges)
Students may be withdrawn for lack of attendance and/or lack of progress. (per Alamo Colleges)
If a student plagiarizes, or colludes or cheats in any dual credit class, the student will receive a zero on the assignment. Repeat offenses will result in failure, drop and suspension from the dual credit program.
I understand that if I drop a dual credit course, I will be enrolled in the Advanced Placement equivalent of that course.
Parent Commitment The parent commits to supporting student learning in the dual credit program; by supporting teacher efforts to provide rigorous, quality instruction; and by valuing the learning that occurs.
I will encourage my child to be prepared for class every day.
If my child encounters difficulties with the course content, I will expect my child to conference with the teacher and attend recommended tutorials.
Parent Understandings
I understand that advanced academic courses may seem challenging at first and initial grades may not reflect later grades in the course.
I understand that if my child receives a D or F in a course, s/he shall not participate in a dual credit course for one year. (per Alamo Colleges)
Students may be withdrawn for lack of attendance and/or lack of progress. (per Alamo Colleges)
If a student plagiarizes, or colludes or cheats in any dual credit class, the student will receive a zero on the assignment. Repeat offenses will result in failure, drop and suspension from the dual credit program.
I understand that if my child drops a dual credit course, s/he will be enrolled in the Advanced Placement equivalent of that course.
Allowances
By signing, I give permission to FSHISD to release official copies of my transcript to St. Philip’s College for the
purpose of registration and finalizing credit records at FSHISD and St. Philip’s College for a dual credit course. By
signing, I give permission to FSHISD to release a copy of PCS orders to St. Philip’s College for the purpose of
communication and record keeping about transfers before a semester is completed. I acknowledge that I have
read the entire Dual Credit Handbook, and I understand the advantages and consequences of taking a Dual Credit
course.
ROBERT G. COLE HIGH SCHOOL
Dual Credit Agreement
34
University Commitment
The University of Texas at Austin (UT) commits to the OnRamps dual enrollment program by communicating program value through research
and statistics, recruiting high school campuses and students to equip them with potential for success, and ensuring college-level instruction in
the high school classroom. High school teachers will be specifically trained for courses by UT and will work hand-in-hand with a college advisor
to provide students a college experience reflective of UT coursework, instructional technology and professor support. Upon successful entry into
and completion of the college coursework in the spring semester of the course, UT will grant college credit to those students that accept it.
Campus Commitment The campus commits to advanced academics by communicating the value of advanced coursework, recruiting students with potential for
success, encouraging student commitment, and supporting instruction. The campus coordinator and Counselor commit to providing support
systems for students and teachers upon request. High school teachers will be provided all time and resources required to attend OnRamps
training by UT.
Student Commitment The student commits to recognizing the long term benefits of participation and seeking assistance when needed.
I will honor all course entry modules and abide by their contents.
I will be continually persistent because these courses are taught at the rigor of a UT core course.
I will dedicate time and energy to the out-of-class work and exploratory nature of class activities to work towards my highest level of success.
In the event that I encounter difficulties with content, I will conference with my teacher and attend recommended tutorials.
Student Understandings
I understand that participation in advanced coursework prepares me well for college, increases my chances of finishing a college degree in four years and earning a higher GPA.
I will be granted a high school grade for all activities taught and assessed by the high school teacher of the course and a college grade for all assessments and projects assessed by the college coordinator of the course.
If a student plagiarizes, or colludes or cheats in any OnRamps class, the student will be investigated by UT to determine consequences granted by the college. The high school teacher shall grant a zero on the assignment. Repeat offenses will result in failure, drop and suspension from the dual enrollment program.
UT and Cole recommend that students limit the number of advanced academics courses taken concurrently with OnRamps courses to ensure student success in this program.
Earning college credit for an OnRamps course is not guaranteed. I must earn 75 or higher for the first semester of the course to be eligible for college credit in the spring.
Parent Commitment The parent commits to supporting student learning in the dual enrollment program; by supporting teacher efforts to provide rigorous, quality instruction; and by valuing the learning that occurs.
I will encourage my child to be prepared for class every day.
If my child encounters difficulties with the course content, I will expect my child to conference with the teacher and attend recommended tutorials.
Parent Understandings
My child will be granted a high school grade for all activities taught and assessed by the high school teacher of the course and a college grade for all assessments and projects assessed by the college coordinator of the course.
I understand that OnRamps courses will maintain a level of high rigor.
If a student plagiarizes, or colludes or cheats in any OnRamps class, the student will be investigated by UT to determine consequences granted by the college. The high school teacher shall grant a zero on the assignment. Repeat offenses will result in failure, drop and suspension from the dual enrollment program.
I understand that FERPA requirements will be followed regarding the college activities and grades associated with this course.
UT and Cole recommend that students limit the number of advanced academics courses taken concurrently with dual enrollment courses to ensure student success in this program.
Earning college credit for an OnRamps course is not guaranteed. My child must earn a 75 or higher for the first semester of the course to be eligible for college credit in the spring.
ROBERT G. COLE HIGH SCHOOL
OnRamps Dual Enrollment Agreement
35
HONOR SOCIETIES
English National Honor Society
French National Honor Society
Math National Honor Society
National Honor Society and Junior National Honor Society
Spanish National Honor Society
STUDENT ORGANIZATIONS
Family Career and Community Leaders of America
Health Occupations Students of America
Student 2 Student
Student Council
Texas Technology Students Association
ACADEMIC UIL COMPETITIONS
Calculator Applications
Cross-Examination Debate
Current Issues & Events
Editorial Writing
Feature Writing
Headline Writing
Informative Speaking
Lincoln-Douglas Debate
Literary Criticism
Mathematics
News Writing
Number Sense
One-Act Play
Persuasive Speaking
Poetry Interpretation
Prose Interpretation
Ready Writing
Science
Social Studies
Spelling & Vocabulary
SPORTS
Baseball
Basketball
Cheer
Cross Country
Football
Golf
Powerlifting
Soccer
Softball
Swimming
Tennis
Track and Field
Volleyball
EXTRACURRICULAR OPPORTUNITIES
36
In accordance with Texas Education Code (TEC), §51.803, a student is eligible for automatic admission to a college or university as an undergraduate student if the applicant earned a grade point average in the top 10 percent of the student's high school graduating class or in the percentage of qualified applicants that are anticipated to be offered admission to the University of Texas at Austin*, and the applicant:
(1) successfully completed the requirements for the Recommended High School Program (RHSP) or the Distinguished Achievement Program (DAP);
(2) earned the distinguished level of achievement under the Foundation High School Program; or
(3) satisfied ACT's College Readiness Benchmarks on the ACT assessment or earned on the SAT assessment a
score of at least 1,500 out of 2,400 or the equivalent.
High school rank for students seeking automatic admission to a general academic teaching institution is determined and reported as follows.
(1) Class rank shall be based on the end of the 11th grade, middle of the 12th grade, or at high school graduation, whichever is most recent at the application deadline.
(2) The top 10 percent of a high school class shall not contain more than 10 percent of the total class size.
(3) The student's rank shall be reported by the applicant's high school or school district as a specific number out of a specific number total class size.
(4) Class rank shall be determined by the school or school district from which the student graduated or is expected to graduate. (TAC §5.5(e))
An applicant who does not satisfy the course requirements considered to have satisfied those the course requirements if the student completed the portion of the RHSP, DAP, or the distinguished level of achievement under the Foundation High School Program that was available to the student but was unable to complete the remainder of the coursework because courses were unavailable to the student as a result of circumstances not within the student's control. To qualify for automatic admission an applicant must:
(1) submit an application before the deadline established by the college or university to which the student seeks admission;
(2) meet all curriculum requirements for admission established by the college or university to which the student seeks admission; and
(3) provide a high school transcript or diploma that indicates whether the student has satisfied or is on schedule to satisfy the requirements of the RHSP, DAP, or the distinguished level of achievement under the Foundation High School Program or the portion of the requirements that was available to the student.
Colleges and universities are required to admit an applicant for admission as an undergraduate student if the applicant is the child of a public servant who was killed or sustained a fatal injury in the line of duty and meets the minimum requirements, if any, established by the governing board of the college or university for high school or prior college- level grade point average and performance on standardized tests.
AUTOMATIC COLLEGE ADMISSION REQUIREMENTS
37
ACTION REQUIRED
October 24, 2017
TO THE ADMINISTRATOR ADDRESSED:
SUBJECT: The University of Texas at Austin Automatic Admission Policy
Senate Bill 175, passed by the 81st Texas Legislature, allows The University of Texas at Austin to limit
automatic admission to 75 percent of the university’s enrollment capacity designated for first-time
resident undergraduate students.
The University has determined that it will automatically admit all eligible 2019 summer/fall freshman
applicants who rank within the top 6% of their high school graduating classes, with remaining spaces
to be filled through holistic review. A letter from University President Gregory L. Fenves is attached
to this correspondence.
This information should be shared with all high school junior-level students and their parents.
If you have questions regarding this policy, please contact Rachelle Hernandez, Senior Vice Provost
for Enrollment Management at The University of Texas at Austin, at (512) 471-4363.
Sincerely,
Mike Morath Commissioner of Education
Attachment – Notification Letter from The University of Texas at Austin President Gregory L. Fenves
38 Anyone who participates in sports at a Division I or II college or university must fulfill the NCAA requirements. Students must also register with the NCAA Clearinghouse during the fall semester of the senior year or they cannot be recruited to play in a Division I or II college or university. To register: go to www.eligibilitycenter.org/. The High School Code is: 446-204.
Requirements:
Graduate from high school.
Division I Full Qualifier – athlete must achieve a GPA of 2.3 in 16 core academic courses; use Full Qualifier Sliding Scale for test scores and GPA
Division I Academic Redshirt – athlete must achieve a GPA of 2.0 in 16 core academic courses; use Full Qualifier Sliding Scale for test scores and GPA
Division II Full Qualifier – athlete must achieve a GPA of 2.2 in 16 core academic courses; use Full Qualifier Sliding Scale for test scores and GPA
Division II Partial Qualifier – athlete must achieve a GPA of 2.0 in 16 core academic courses; use Partial Qualifier Sliding Scale for test scores and GPA
SAT score for NCAA includes the reading and math sections. The ACT is the sum of the four sections. THE SCORES MUST BE REPORTED DIRECTLY TO THE NCAA ELIGIBILITY CENTER BY THE AGENCY (test scores that appear on transcripts will not be used). Use the score code of 9999 to report score to the Eligibility Center.
The highest scores achieved on the verbal and mathematics section of the SAT or highest scores achieved on the four individual tests of the ACT may be combined to achieve the highest scores.
High School Core Courses (Division I):
In total must complete 16 core courses
10 core courses must be completed before the start of the seventh semester (these courses are locked-in and cannot be repeated)
7 of the 10 courses must be in English, Math or Science 2018 High School Core Courses (Division II):
3 years English;
2 years Math (Algebra I or higher);
2 years natural or physical science (including I lab course, if offered by any high school you attended);
3 years additional courses in English, math or natural/ physical science;
2 years of social science; and
4 additional academic course in any of the above areas, or foreign language, computer science, philosophy or comparative religion.
POTENTIAL COLLEGE ATHLETES
39
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40
Parent Signature: ______________________________________________
Name: ID #:
School: Grade: Date Initiated: Date(s) Amended:
Directions: Courses required at a specific grade level are noted in the chart below. Students have flexibility in determining the year of study for the following graduation requirements: World History or World Geography, Foreign Language, Fine Arts, PE and Health.
High School credits earned in
Middle School 9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade
English I English II English III English: _______________
Math:_________________ Math:_________________ Math:_________________ Math:_________________
Biology Science: ______________ Science: ______________ Science: ______________
U.S. History Government ( ½ ) / Economics ( ½ )
The Four-Year Plan is intended to give you and your parent(s) a guide to use as you progress
through high school. You will want to review the plan each year to make sure you are taking
the required courses for graduation. Your course selection should support your aptitude and
interests and align with the career you wish to pursue. My Graduation Plan Type is:
______ Foundation + Endorsement
______ Distinguished
Plans after high school:
Career: _________________
______ 4-year university
______ 2-year university
______ vocational/trade school
______ military
______ enter workforce
Endorsement:
STEM
⃝ Computer Science ⃝ Mathematics ⃝ Science ⃝ Combination Business and Industry
⃝ Comm. Photography ⃝ Business ⃝ Culinary Arts ⃝ English - Debate Arts and Humanities
⃝ Art ⃝ Social Studies ⃝ Languages ⃝ Theater ⃝ Music ⃝ Combination – Fine Arts Public Services
⃝ Health Science ⃝ JROTC Multidisciplinary Studies
⃝ AP or DC ⃝ Foundation Credits
Graduation Plans 2014-15
Foundation + Endorsement(s) Distinguished
Discipline Credits Credits Credits
English 4
Math 3 1 Incl. Algebra II
Science 3 1
Social Studies 3
Foreign Language 2
Fine Arts 1
PE 1
Health and Speech** 1
Electives 4 2
Total Credits for Graduation 22 26 26
FSHISD CLASS OF 2018 AND BEYOND 4-YEAR PLAN WORKSHEET
41
The Fort Sam Houston School District Board of
Trustees and the Administrative Staff fully concur and
are firmly committed to comply with the provisions of
the following laws: Title VI - Civil Rights Act of 1964;
Title IX Education Amendment of 1972; Section
504 - Rehabilitation Act of 1973, and Title
II - Americans with Disabilities Act of 1992. These
Federal Laws jointly require that programs, services,
and activities be provided without regard to race,
color, national origin, sex, or handicap. For
information about your rights or grievance
procedures, contact: Dr. Gail Siller, Superintendent, at
(210) 368 -8700.