Central Catholic Course Descriptions
Religion
Religion I Required 9 10 credits
Old Testament (Hebrew Scriptures) - First Semester
This year’s focus is on Scriptures, Old and New Testament, each for a semester. The students will become familiar with biblical terminology and prominent characters, basic context, and overarching themes in the Old Testament. The students will study the OT as sacred literature of the ancient Israelite people and as the sacred scripture of the Christian Church today. Students will learn to pray with the scriptures.
New Testament - (Christian Scriptures) - Second Semester
The second semester will build on the first semester. Students make connections with OT teachings. The focus of this course is on Jesus - God, man, and savior. Special emphasis is given to the requirements and rewards of Christian discipleship. Students will also study the role of the Holy Spirit in the early church, the letters to the churches and the book of Revelation as apocalyptic literature.
Religion II Required 10 10 credits
Sacraments - First Semester
What are sacraments: symbols, rituals, prayer. Emphasis will be given to the sacraments as the special means of the church to continue the works of Jesus Christ. Both the scriptural foundations and the history of the sacrament will be presented.
Morality - Second Semester
Assessing personal moral integrity, conscience formation, defining morality, the Catholic church and morality, revealing the moral Jesus. The study of capital sins, virtues, cardinal virtues, values, steps to take in making a moral decision. Basic principles found in the Ten Commandments, Beatitudes, Works of Mercy, and Precepts of the Catholic Church along with current moral issues facing the church today and the church’s position.
Religion III Required 11 10 credits
Prayer and Spirituality - First Semester
The goal of this class is to help students develop and expand their understanding of Spirituality that “there is more to life than meets the eye,” and hopefully our students will recognize their need for the spiritual, for a relationship with God that can help them not only make it through a tough world, but, even more, to find true lasting happiness.
Church History - Second Semester
The students will come to a better understanding of the meaning of the church through a study of its history. The challenges and problems will be presented along with the response of the church and the church’s growth. Special emphasis will be given t the church in today’s world and to the history of the church in the United States.
Religion IV Required 12 10 credits
Christian Lifestyles/Church Doctrine/Apologetics - First Semester
The particular way of living out the Christian vocation – the single lifestyle, the priestly and religious lifestyles, and the married lifestyle—will be examined in the contest of identity, intimacy, vocation, and ministry. Doctrine, our public and official belief, is the identifying characteristic for our Catholic community. The course helps the student discover the ideas and context of the main points. In this understanding students will be able to defend their faith to others.
Social Justice/Apologetics - Second Semester
Social justice focuses on the need to be aware of and to respond to the needs of our neighbor. The role of the conscience and decision-making will be reviewed when challenged about social issues. The course helps the student discover the ideas and context of the main points. In this understanding students will be able to defend their faith to others.
English I Required Grade 9 10 credits
This course covers all the basics of English. Students will read works from a variety of genres, study and apply the six traits of writing in an assortment of styles, and be introduced to the research process. Grammar skills will be reviewed and applied to all formal writings. Spelling, vocabulary and comprehension skills will be expanded through reading, Root Focus and other activities. Students will have the opportunity to receive extra credit points through the Accelerated Reader program.
English II Required Grade 10 10 credits
This class is a balance of composition and literature. Various forms of literature will be a focal point and will be read, analyzed, and discussed. Students will create an autobiography booklet. Paragraph, essay, personal narrative, poetry, and various forms of creative writing will be explored. Students will continue to develop skills in researching a topic and applying the six traits of writing. Grammar skills will be reviewed and applied to all formal writings. Spelling, vocabulary and comprehension skills will be expanded through reading, Root Focus and other activities. Students will have the opportunity to receive extra credit points through the Accelerated Reader program.
American Literature and Composition Required Grade 11 10 credits
This course will focus primarily on literature written by American authors. Students will explore various forms of literature, authors from different backgrounds, and cultural and historical situations. Poetry and fiction selections will also be used to stimulate creative thought and writing. Composition will be a major component of the course, giving students an opportunity to apply the six traits of writing and grammar skills. Students will write a term paper over the historical background of a novel, an author, or another relevant topic. Spelling, vocabulary and comprehension skills will be expanded through reading, Root Focus and other activities. Students will have the opportunity to receive extra credit points through the Accelerated Reader program.
British Literature Required Grade 12 10 credits
Students will explore British literature and recognize how historical and cultural aspects influence the author’s writing. Student will incorporate practical grammar skills and the six-traits to their writing and will demonstrate research skills by writing a research paper. Spelling, vocabulary and comprehension skills will be expanded through reading, Root Focus and other activities. Students will have the opportunity to receive extra credit points through the Accelerated Reader program.
Speech Required Grade 10 5 credits
Students will become familiar with the communication process. Individual and group activities will facilitate growth in both intrapersonal and interpersonal communication skills. Students will practice the process of researching and writing an effective speech. Research skills will be gained by using a variety of sources and public speaking skills will be gained by presenting speeches in a classroom setting. Primarily, students will develop informative and persuasive speeches, but will also explore additional types of public speaking as time allows.
Journalism Elective 11-12 5 credits
This course is for the student who aspires to have a career in journalism or the student who simply wants to explore journalistic writing and develop skills in publication layout. It will be the student’s job to research and find newsworthy material, write various types of stories, sell and prepare advertisements, and learn the skill of newspaper layout by working with Photoshop and PageMaker computer programs. The creative and self-motivated student will succeed in this class.
Creative Writing Elective 11-12 5 credits
This class provides students with an opportunity to explore different forms of written communication, and to write in a variety of creative styles. Students will develop poetry, essays, stories, plays, and other written work. Each student will create a portfolio.
Film and Literature Elective 11-12 5 credits
This class provides students with an opportunity to critically watch and analyze films, while exploring complimentary written work in various styles. Literary and cinematic devices will be examined and students will demonstrate understanding through the completion of various projects, including written work and oral presentations.
Drama Elective 11-12 5 credits
This class will introduce students to theatrical elements and several types of drama. Students will read a variety of plays and explore the actor’s craft through exercises, improvisations, scene work and character analysis. Skills in analyzing text and in creative interpretation will be developed. Students will keep journals and respond to dramatic works by writing in a variety of styles.
Yearbook I, II Elective 11-12 5 credits
This course is for the student who aspires to have a career in journalism or who wants to be involved with preserving the memories of their high school experience. The student will work on layout and design of the school’s yearbook by working with Photoshop and PageMaker computer programs.
Visual Storytelling Elective 11-12 5 credits
This class will provide an opportunity for students to develop writing skills and to communicate through visual storytelling. Students will explore elements of literature including character, setting, plot, and theme. A variety of literary devices such as foreshadowing, flashback, and symbolism will be used to develop writing skills. Research skills will be gained by using a variety of sources to gather information. Students will practice each step of the writing process and apply the six traits of writing to their work. For each writing project, students will present the story visually by using a number of resources and skills. The use of illustrations, photography and computer graphics will be among the options students have for telling their stories visually.
Advanced Composition Elective 11-12 5 credits
This course may be used as a dual credit class for college taken through Northeast Community College for a fee.
Designed to develop writing skills, students write short papers and essays based upon their personal experience and/or assigned readings. The course emphasizes the clear written expression of ideas and the importance of organization, word choice, logic and sentence construction. The process of planning, writing, revising, and editing essays for a particular audience is also emphasized.
Juniors may take this class if they have an “A” cumulative average.
College Credit: ACT composite 21, 21 English ACT score and/or top half of class rank
Social Studies
World Geography Required Grade 9 5 credits
In this course the students will identify the five themes of Geography. The students will be able to use maps and other geographic tools to understand the physical and human activities that helped shape the earth. The students will locate and identify countries, capitals, and major physical features.
World History I Grade 10, 11, 12 5 credits
World History I presents the students with an overview of the cultural, political, and economic movements from Prehistory through Medieval Times. The student learns to face the cause and effect on history. The students also learn to face the challenges of the present age by studying the ways in which the past generation faced similar situations. The relationship of the past and the future is also stressed. History is seen as an ongoing event in which the student is actively involved.
World History II Grade 10, 11, 12 5 credits
World History II presents the students with an overview of the cultural, political, and economic movements from Renaissance to Modern History. The student learns to face the cause and effect on history. The students also learn to face the challenges of the present age by studying the ways in which the past generation faced similar situations. The relationship of the past and the future is also stressed. History is seen as an ongoing event in which the student is actively involved.
United States History I Grade 10, 11, 12 5 credits
A survey of American history from Early Beginnings to the Roaring Twenties, with emphasis on the concepts and motivations rather than “names and dates” will be analyzed. The relationship between past and present will be emphasized as well as the way in which history repeats itself. Creative thinking skills are used to resolve hypothetical problems. Modern problems are discussed and analyzed; lifestyle and problems of the future are also presented.
United States History II Grade 10, 11, 12 5 credits
A survey of American history from The Great Depression to the Present, with emphasis on the concepts and motivations rather than “names and dates” will be analyzed. The relationship between past and present will be emphasized as well as the way in which history repeats itself. Creative thinking skills are used to resolve hypothetical problems. Modern problems are discussed and analyzed; lifestyle and problems of the future are also presented.
U.S. Government Grade 11 or 12 5 credits
This course is designed to familiarize the student with the basic structure of the Federal Government system and inner-workings. Students study social issues and project how current legislative action and policy will affect the future. This class is designed for the student to put into practice their civic duties as a member of a Democratic society.
Economics Grade 11, 12 5 credits
This course is designed to show cause and effect relationships of the economic, free enterprise systems. A review of other economic structures that are in place in the global economy will also be studied. Economic theories and economic geography are emphasized. Discussion on topics such as break-even points, supply and demand curve, along with elastic in inelastic supply will be included.
World Affairs Grade 10, 11, 12 5 credits
This course covers the current events affecting our world. This includes economic, political, spiritual, and cultural events, along with the history behind these events. The effects of these events on the student and our society will be explored. World organizations and alliances will also be studied.
Sociology Grade 11, 12 5 credits
Sociology concentrates its study upon man’s interaction with others and the products of this group living. This course deals with customs, traditions, and values which emerge from the group living and how this group in turn affects these aspects and is affected by them through the study of institutions and our relationships to man. Enhancements of field study work, observations of social play and human interaction will help develop an understanding of cultures. This class will be taken as a tele-course through Northeast Community College.
College Credit: ACT composite 21, English ACT score 21 and/or top half of class rank
Psychology Elective 12 5 credits
This course may be used as a dual credit class for college taken through Northeast Community College for a fee.
Psychology is the study of human behavior and mental process. Topics include theoretical approaches, development, biological foundations, learning, perception, emotions, motivation, social behavior, abnormal behavior, and approaches to therapy. Juniors may take this class if they have an “A” cumulative average.
College Credit: ACT composite 21, 21 English ACT and/or top half of class rank
Foreign Language
Goals of the foreign language curriculum at all levels are the following:
Spanish I Elective (recommended) 10 credits
The first year of Spanish helps each student attain an acceptable degree of proficiency in the four skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing the language. The material presented is practical and useful and relates to the students’ everyday lives. They will gain knowledge and understanding of other cultures. Students use the Internet, audio and video cassettes to enhance language and cultural learning. All students have the opportunity to attend a cultural event in Omaha or Lincoln within their first two years of Spanish.
Spanish II Elective (recommended) 10 credits
The second level of Spanish furthers the student’s ability in speaking, understanding, reading and writing in Spanish. Students engage in conversation that provide and obtain information, express feelings and emotions, and exchange opinions. Computers, cassette recording, and video are used to enhance language and cultural learning. All students have the opportunity to attend a cultural event in Omaha or Lincoln within the first two years of Spanish.
Spanish III Elective 10 credits
The third level is designed to further the fundamental skills in language usage and to provide opportunity for self-expression in speaking and writing. Students will connect with other curriculum areas. Students are required to perform one hour of service each semester that exposes them to authentic language and/or culture. Presentation and participation of materials for class will be spoken 70% of the class time.
Spanish IV Elective 10 credits
At this level, the student communicates mostly in Spanish. Emphasis is placed on the student’s use of the Spanish language both within and beyond the school setting. Students perform 2 hours of service per semester that exposes them to authentic language and culture. Presentation and participation of materials for class will be spoken 90% of the class time.
Mathematics All math classes should have teacher signatures
Pre-Algebra Elective Grade 9 10 credits
This course covers pre-Algebra concepts and topics from the first semester of Algebra I. It is intended to give students a firm foundation for Algebra I.
Prerequisite: Recommendation needed by 8th grade math teacher or placement test results.
Algebra I Required Grade 9-10 10 credits
Algebra I guides the student in the discovery of mathematical principles. It also develops the necessary understanding and skills required as a preparation for courses in higher mathematics. These topics include linear and quadratic graphing, radical expressions, rational numbers and polynomials. Problem solving skills are emphasized throughout the course.
Prerequisite: Recommendation needed by 8th grade math teacher, placement test results, or must have passed Pre-Algebra.
Geometry Required Grade 9-11 10 credits
Geometry is designed to help students develop an understanding of the fundamental facts and principles of abstract reasoning. It improves their problem-solving skills and encourages habits of logical thinking and precise expression. The course contains concepts of plane, solid and coordinate geometry. May be taken concurrently with Algebra II with instructor(s) approval.
Prerequisite: Algebra I with passing grade
Algebra II Elective Grade 10-12 10 credits
Algebra II is a study of functions, their properties, and applications. It expands and strengthens the skills learned in Algebra I and Geometry. Clear thinking and accuracy are emphasized as important parts of problem-solving.
Prerequisite: Geometry (an exception is the student taking Geometry and Algebra II in the same year).
Pre-Calculus Elective Grade 11-12 10 credits
The purpose of this Pre-Calculus course is to bridge the gap between Algebra II and Calculus. The course treats standard elements of trigonometry, analytic geometry, college algebra, and problem solving. Pre-Calculus prepares the student for their future by giving them an adequate background for college math courses. Extensive use of the graphics calculator is emphasized.
Prerequisite: Algebra II
Discrete Math Elective Grade 12 5 credits
This semester course is designed for seniors who have passed Algebra II but do not want to take the college prep Pre-Calculus. Topics covered include matrices, probability, and statistics. Graphics calculators will be used extensively. This course does not necessarily prepare the student for calculus in college.
Prerequisite: Algebra II (the exception is the student taking Algebra II at the same time).
Trigonometry Elective Grade 12 5 credits
This semester course will cover the basic trigonometry functions and the study of vectors. Graphics calculators and CBL’s will be used extensively. Applications of trigonometry functions will be emphasized. This course does not necessarily prepare the student for calculus in college.
Prerequisite: Algebra II (the exception is the student taking Algebra II at the same time).
Calculus Elective Grade 12 10 credits
This course builds on the conceptual knowledge developed in Pre-Calculus and prepares the student for college calculus. The topics covered are limits, differentiation and integration. Application problems are emphasized, along with the use of graphics calculators. This course is recommended for those who plan to major in math, science, engineering or pre-med in college. It can also be taken for college credit through Northeast Community College.
Prerequisite: Math Pre-Calculus or CollegeAlgebra/Trigonometry College Credit: ACT composite 21, Mathematics ACT Score 21 and/or top half of class rank.
AP Calculus AB Elective 12 10 credits
Advanced Placement Calculus AB is equivalent to a one-semester college calculus course. The topics covered are limits, differentiation and integration as presented in the syllabus published by the College Board. College credit and placement depends on the individual college and performance on the AO exam in May. Application problems are emphasized, along with the use of graphics calculators. This course is recommended for those who plan to major in math, science, engineering or pre-med in college. This is a highly demanding course. Students must have excellent study skills and must be willing to take the AP test in the spring.
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus or College Algebra/Trigonometry
AP Statistics Elective 11, 12 10 credits
This is a course in statistics that covers the topics in the syllabus published by the College Board. College credit and placement depend on the individual college as well as performance on the AP test in May. This statistics class will introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: Exploring Data, Planning a study, mathematical maturity and quantitative reasoning ability and is an alternative to AP Calculus or can be taken concurrently. This class can also be taken concurrently with Pre-Calculus.
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus with the exception being the student taking Pre-Calculus at the same time.
Algebra and Trigonometry for College Credit Elective Grade 12
5 college credits 10 high school units 1 year class
This class is the study of field axioms, sets, functions, equations, inequalities, matrices and determinants, exponents, logarithms, trigonometric functions and analysis. This class is a prep for calculus and those who need an algebra/trig background for their major at community college or 4-year college.
Prerequisite: Completion of Algebra II and acceptance by instructor and Northeast Community College.
Math in Everyday Life Elective Grade 12 10 credits
This class will allow students to learn application of math in their daily lives. The student is required to solve math problems that relate to personal and business situation. The problem solving includes the use of who numbers, fractions, decimals, records, and when calculating interest, commissions, taxes, home and car expenses and other home and business-related problems. Basic accounting procedures and terminology will also be part of this course. Must have approval of math instructors to enroll.
Computer Science
Computer Application/Basic Business Required Grade 9 5 credits
In this course each student will review how to operate a computer, Microsoft Office programs and Internet usage. Basic keyboarding skills, such as formatting, business letters, envelopes, reports, and completing application forms, will be learned. The second part of the course will allow the student to learn basic math/business principles including payroll, reconciliation of bank statements, figuring loans, discounts, and federal taxes.
Advanced Computer Applications Elective Grade 10-12 5 credits
This course is designed for the student who wants to learn the advanced features using Microsoft Office and Adobe Creative Suite 2. The course expands on the use of word processing, database, spreadsheet, PowerPoint, Illustrator, Photoshop, and InDesign. Projects that integrate the program applications will be used.
Interactive Media & Web Technologies I and II Elective Grade 10-12 5 credits
This class is designed to teach students the fundamentals of digital media hardware and software. The course expands on the effective use of text, image, video, web and sound file types. Projects that integrate the program applications will be used.
Computer Programming I and II Elective Grade 11-12 5 credits
This course is an introduction to teach programming in general and the elements of C++, Java and Alice programming language. Emphasis will be placed on structured programming principles: problem-solving, top-down modular design, coding and style. It encourages students to use clear, logical thinking and precise expression in writing an effective program.
Computer Design I and II Elective Grade 11-12 5 credits
This course in an introduction to teach Dreamweaver, Flash, and Fireworks. The course expands on how to create a Dreamweaver web site, creating and enhancing graphics in Fireworks and using Flash to create animation and video. Projects that integrate the program applications will be used. Projects will include a business site and the continued update of the school’s site.
Business
Accounting I Elective Grade 10-12 10 credits
In this yearlong course each student will complete an accounting cycle for the three major types of businesses. They will be introduced to accounting concepts, terms, and procedures that will be used in a service business formed as a proprietorship, a merchandising business as a partnership and corporation. Other materials to be covered include checking accounts, automated accounting systems, voucher systems, and petty cash systems. Upon completion of the course the students should be able to start and maintain records for themselves or for a small business.
Accounting II Elective Grade 12 10 credits
Introduction to principles of debit and credit, recording of purchase and sale of merchandise and equipment, calculation and recording of interest and depreciation. Includes methods of determining inventory values, payroll procedures, and preparation of statements for a service and merchandising business.
Personal Finance Elective Grade 12 5 credits
This course will cover the basic principles needed for effective personal finance management, including the practical applications of money management, budgeting, taxes, credit insurance, housing, investments and retirement planning
Business Law Elective Grade 11-12 10 credits
This course covers the protection the law gives the general public. Contracts are the most common dealing we have with the law daily. Insurance and ownership of property will also be studied. The students will be given information about social justice with which the law deals, and they will be encouraged to use their ethical standards to form decisions.
Vocational
Career Exploration Elective Grade 12 5 credits
Seniors may go out into the work force and experience an occupation one class period a day first-hand with this class. A suitable business is contacted by the Guidance Counselor and the student is then responsible for the tasks assigned by the place of business. A final paper by the student, and evaluation by the business, and a parent survey are the requirements for this class.
Science
Physical Science Required Grade 9 10 credits
Physical Science is an introductory science course that demonstrates the interaction of matter and energy and the physical laws that govern them. Topics include: matter, atomic theory, chemical reactions, Newton’s laws, gravity, heat. Light, magnetism and electricity. Lab work will introduce students to activities that further develop concepts.
Biology Grade 10 10 credits
During this course, students will acquire a general understanding of living organisms, their functions and relationships with other organisms in the environment. Specific topics to be discussed include cell, heredity, ecology, viruses and classification of organism (protists, monera, fungi, animals and plants). Special attention will be given to the application of biology in the daily lives of students.
Chemistry Elective Grade 11, 12 10 credits
Chemistry is primarily for college bound students. Emphasis will be placed on problem solving and critical thinking skills. Topics covered will include but not be limited to the study of general principles including atomic structure, nomenclature, reactions, and compounds, interactions of substances, the effects of temperature, pressure and concentrations as it applies to solubility, reaction rate and pH. Laboratory work associated with the concepts presented in class will be utilized. Scientific calculators are required. Algebra II needs to be taken simultaneously or prior.
Environmental Science Elective 11, 12 10 credits
Environmental Science is the study of the world around us. The major emphasis is man’s impact, both good and ban on the animals, air, water and planet. Topics covered include the biosphere, ecosystems, populations, pollution, cycles in the environment and solutions to problems. Critical thinking skills and problem solving will be stressed in lab work, case study problems and real world issues.
Physics Elective Grade 11, 12 10 credits
Physics is designed to provide the student with the fundamental understanding of the physical laws. Concepts are explained and developed through explanation and experimentation with the emphasis placed on mathematical calculations. Topics covered include but are not limited to Newton’s laws, gravity, momentum, circular motion, electricity, and magnetism. Students should be comfortable with complex mathematical concepts. A strong background in Algebra and Geometry is necessary. A scientific calculator is necessary.
Basic Nurse Aide Elective 11, 12 5 credits
This course will be offered through Northeast Community College during one of Central Catholic’s class periods. The student will be responsible for payment for tuition and course materials. This course includes basic patient care, an introduction to aging and disability, personal hygiene, body activity skills, fire prevention, and safety. Basic communication and documentation, planning patient care, and vital signs, as well as nutrition and elimination needs and a discussion of death and dying are included. Anatomy and physiology will also be discussed. Students completing this course and successfully completing a written and practical exam, are prepared for employment as nursing assistants in hospitals and/or extended care facilities. The students’ names will be placed on the basic nurse aide registry at the Nebraska Health and Human Services Regulation and Licensure, Credentialing Division.
The students are expected to attend all classes even if Central Catholic is not in session.
Astronomy Elective 11, 12 5 credits
Astronomy looks at the development of the stars and star patterns. Time will be spent on the physics and chemistry of the stars as well as the paths, constellations, and measuring of stars in the sky. Algebra II and a scientific calculator are recommended. Class will be held in the fall and require some nighttime sky watching.
Meteorology Elective 11, 12 5 credits
Meteorology is an in-depth look at the interactions that develop into weather patterns. Time will be spent learning the simple physics and chemistry that determines weather patterns. Algebra II and a scientific calculator are recommended.
Physiology I Elective Grade 11, 12 10 credits
This course is an elective open to juniors and seniors who have successfully completed biology. In this class, students will acquire a general understanding of the human body. Specific topics to be discussed include biochemistry, cytology, anatomical terminology, and histology. Body systems covered include the integumentary, skeletal, and muscular. Special attention in lectures, labs, and field trips will be given in relating lectures to the medical field.
Physiology II Elective Grade 12 10 credits
This course is an independent study course open to seniors who have successfully completed Physiology I. In this class, students will continue to acquire a general understanding of the human body. Specific topics to be discussed include the following body systems: nervous, digestive, urinary, circulatory, lymphatic, and reproductive. Special attention in notes, labs and field trips will be given in relating material to the medical field. When applicable a job shadowing experience will accompany the class.
Fine Arts
Introduction to Art Elective Grade 10-12 5 credits
This course is offered to all students that will fulfill half of their fine arts requirements for graduation. During the first quarter of this class, the students will learn the basics of art including the elements of art and principles of design. Small projects will be used to enhance their learning of these topics. The second quarter of the class is directed around the teaching of art history from Prehistoric through Renaissance periods.
Introduction to Art II Elective Grade 10-12 5 credits
This course is an elective offered to all students who have successfully completed the Introduction to Art I course. This class also can be applied to the fulfillment of half of their fine art requirements for graduation. During this class, the students will continue their study of art history including the Late Renaissance period through the 20th century art. Small projects will be used to enhance their learning of these topics.
Studio Art I Elective Grade 11, 12 5 credits
This course is an elective open to students who have successfully completed the two introductory classes. The emphasis of the course will center on the development of drawing and painting skills and possibly three-dimensional techniques. Projects will be designed to develop creativity and enhance the art sills the student already has. Three-dimensional projects may be included in this course dependent upon the student’s interest. Use of digital photography enhances student learning in this course.
Studio Art II Elective Grade 11, 12 5 credits
This course is an elective open to all students who have successfully completed Studio Art I and is designed for the serious art student. The emphasis of this course will continue to center on the development of drawing skills and some painting skills. Projects will include still lifes, self-portraits, design projects and other various projects. This course will also emphasize techniques involved in creating three dimensional art projects such as paper mache, clay, collages, and various other projects. Use of digital photography and the Adobe In-Design computer software will enhance student learning in this course.
Music
Band Elective Grade 9-12 8 credits
Concert band is the opportunity for students who have played an instrument on the elementary level and are interested in pursuing the experience in high school band. Band provides an experience of playing with other students in ensemble where the technical and musical skills of a developing instrumentalist can be fostered. Membership in the band automatically means membership in pep band for sports events unless the student is part of the sports team. Jazz band is also part of the class. A variety of music is performed. This class meets before school each morning. Preparation of songs worked on for the Christmas Concert, the Conference Band Clinic, the All-City Concert, the District Music Contest, and the Spring Concert. Every other year the Band performs for the Memorial Day Services at St. Michael’s cemetery.
Swing Choir Elective Grade 10-12 5 credits
Swing choir is a balanced ensemble of singers. Through a personal dedication of each member the group can attain a high level of choral excellence and can represent the school with pride in interscholastic competition and at guest appearances. Proper singing techniques are taught. Musical terms, theory and functions are taught as well. Computers, videos, CD are used to enhance the students’ learning. The class prepares selections for Conference Choral Clinic in the fall, the Christmas Concert, the All-City concert, District Music Contest and the Spring Concert.
Music Appreciation Elective Grade 10-12 10 credits
Learn the different musical eras and composers and listening to their compositions. Note names, signs, etc. A variety of activities including videos from the eras and internet research will be completed. Students will be able to write own compositions on computers. There may be some time for singing.
Music Theory Elective 10-12 5 credits
This class is open to students who have taken piano lessons or would like to start. The class also incorporates theory and composition. Music software programs will be used to learn theory and composition techniques.
Physical and Health Education
Health/Physical Education I Required Grade 9 10 credits
This course is designed to show the importance of physical fitness and health in today’s society. Each week time will be split between PE and health. PE class is devoted to developing good physical health and a pattern of exercise which can be carried throughout life. (Weightlifting, tumbling, volleyball, dance, soccer, bowling, basketball, Wally ball kickball, softball, etc) The health component will include the areas of personal health, mental wellness, eating disorders, healthy and unhealthy relationships, tobacco, alcohol and drugs, diseases that affect different body systems and sexual reproduction.
Advanced Health/Physical Education Required Grade 11 or 12 5 credits
This is a semester course that incorporates PE and Health each week. The students will be able to perform the Heimlich maneuver, rescue breathing, and CPR procedures on the baby and adult Annie’s. Students will also have knowledge of how to control bleeding, care for different types of wounds, identify and care for frostbite, stroke, shock, heat exhaustion, heat stroke and burns. PE activities may include weight and circuit conditioning, tennis, bowling, basketball, volleyball, mushy ball and Frisbee golf.
Lifetime Activities Elective Grade 12 5 credits
The class is intended to further develop a respect for activity and maintaining good health. This will be done by emphasizing the physical fitness program and developing skills that can be used in lifetime activities. Activities may include camping, fishing, golf, cards, weight training.
Fitness and Conditioning Elective 10, 11, 12 5 credits
This course is intended to develop and maintain total fitness for the student. Activities may include proper stretching techniques, plyometrics, aerobics, and fitness exercise.