[ 9th Grade | 10th Grade | 11th Grade | 12th Grade | Electives | 7-8 Courses ]
NINTH GRADE |
ENGLISH (9)
In the ninth grade, the curriculum focuses on one quarter of speech, concentrating on informative public address with emphasis on research, organization, writing of the speech and the use of effective visuals. The course will also include a variety of short presentations, from monologues to the reading of poetry and prose to help build both verbal and nonverbal skills as well as gain personal confidence in their ability to communicate.
The remainder of the year will focus on vocabulary, literature, writing skills and applied grammar. The vocabulary study utilizes a weekly lesson and quiz. Literature consists of the readying of poetry, plays, short stories, nonfiction and novels, stressing the elements of each type of literature. Writing will incorporate descriptive, narrative, and expository. Applied grammar will place emphasis on language mechanics, parts of the sentence, adjectives, adverbs, verbal and compound/complex sentences.
TEXTS:
Elements of Literature, Third Course by Holt, Rinehart, and Winston, 1993
Wordskills by McDougal, Littell and Company 1993
The Writer's Craft by McDougal, Littell & Co., 1998
Novels include the following:
Night, Harris and Me, The Chocolate WarPHYSICAL SCIENCE (9)
Physical Science is broken up into two semesters with one semester being primarily physics, or the study of motion and the other being chemistry, or the study of matter. The physics unit is spent primarily studying laws of motion, forces in matter-including a unit on relativity, energy, light, and sound. The chemistry unit places emphasis on general chemical principles, the basics of matter and the periodic table, and the relationship of these things to our everyday lives. Organic Chemistry is taught with emphasis on nomenclature and basic functional groups and their relationships to our lives.
TEXT: Conceptual Physical Science (Second Edition) by Hewitt, Suchocki
& Hewitt--Addison-Wesley, 1999.
WORLD HISTORY (9)
The curriculum for ninth grade social studies is based on World History. Students will study a survey of the most significant events in World History. The course begins in prehistoric times and examines events until the present. Highlights of the course work include; ancient civilizations, the contributions of the Greeks and Romans, elements of European History, and selected topics from modern history including World War I and World War II. Students will utilize their textbooks as well as the Internet, library, and current periodicals.
TEXT: World History, Glencoe, 2005.
MATHEMATICS (one full year math class required)
PRE-ALGEBRA (9)
Materials needed: Scientific calculator All important
Pre-Algebra concepts and skills are presented to prepare
students for success in Algebra I. This rigorous
course introduces variables, expressions, equations, and
graphing, as well as a five-step problem-solving strategy to
help students apply mathematical concepts.
TEXT: Math Advantage (Middle School III), Harcourt Brace & Company, 1999
Designed for: Pre-Algebra is designed for the 9th
grade student who experienced difficulty in Mathematics 8 or
who needs more preparation for Algebra I.
OR
ALGEBRA I (8, 9, 10)
(Prerequisite: Math 8 or Pre-Algebra)
Materials needed: Scientific calculator. The content
and questions of this class integrate geometry, probability,
and statistics together with algebra. Pure and applied
mathematics are also integrated throughout. These topics are
not isolated as separate units of study or enrichment.
They are employed to motivate, justify, extend and otherwise
enhance important concepts of algebra. Four dimensions
of understanding are emphasized to maximize performance:
skill in carrying out various algorithms; developing
and using mathematics properties and relationships;
applying mathematics in realistic situations; and
representing or picturing mathematical concepts.
Students will learn to use mathematics effectively through
problem-solving experiences that include use of higher-order
thinking skills in daily assignments, a wide variety of
problem types in the questions, and open-ended problems.
TEXT: ALGEBRA, Prentice Hall, 2002
OR
GEOMETRY (9, 10, 11)
(Prerequisite: Algebra One) Materials
needed: Scientific calculator.Four dimensions of
understanding are emphasized: skill in drawing,
visualizing, and mathematical relationships and
proofs; using geometric ideas in real
situations; andrepresenting geometric concepts with
coordinates, networks or other diagrams. There is a
significant amount of algebra employed to motivate, justify,
extend and otherwise enhance the geometry. The
coordinate and transformational approaches connect geometry
with algebra and transformations are functions which allow
all figures to be considered as geometric. This
text is particularly beneficial in any further study
of algebra and functions.
TEXT: GEOMETRY, Prentice Hall, 2002
TENTH GRADE |
AMERICAN HISTORY (10) (1900-1975)
This course is designed around nine units. Each unit has extra readings and video as well as the textbook. The units are:
- Theodore Roosevelt, Inventors, Industrialists, and Immigration and the Spanish-American War
- The 1920’s and Charles Lindbergh
- The 1930’s and F.D. Roosevelt; Events leading to WWII
- WWII and Japanese-Americans and the Homefront
- Harry Truman
- John F. Kennedy
- The Vietnam War . . . why it happened, how we fought, and why we lost
- The U.S. Space program (Mercury, Gemini, and Apollo)
TEXT: American Anthem, Holt, Rienhart, Winston, 2007.
BIOLOGY(10)
A study of principles of biology in which the characteristics of living organisms are investigated. Special emphasis of principles as they apply to the uniformity, diversity and organization of the plant and animal kingdom and their environmental relationships will be stressed. General topics of study include characteristics of life, genetics, evolution, representatives of the protozoan, plant, and animal kingdoms.
TEXT: Biology: The Web of Life. Scott, Foresman, Addison, Wesley, 1998.
ENGLISH (10)
This class encompasses writing, literature, vocabulary, spelling, and grammar and usage study. The forms of writing each student will complete during the course of the year are as follows: autobiographical incident, observing situations and settings, poetry, comparison and contrast, cause and effect, problem and solution, controversial issue, and interpretive essay. Students will be required to prewrite, write, edit and rewrite each piece of written work for final evaluation. Each student will also be required to submit a portfolio of his/her written work for final evaluation.
A quarter of the class will be spent on Speech. The class will be required to write and present a persuasive speech, oral interp of prose, and poetry, concentrating on writing, organization, character analysis, presentation and listening skills.
Vocabulary and spelling will be studied and tested on a weekly basis. Grammar study will include the eight parts of speech, the sentence, the phrase, the clause, correct agreement, using pronouns correctly, using verbs correctly, and using modifiers correctly. Usage study will include capitalization, and punctuation.
Literature study will cover the short story, the novel, drama and poetry.
TEXTS:
Wordskills by McDougal, Littell & Co., 1993
The Writer's Craft by McDougal, Littell & Co., 1998
Elements of Literature by Holt,Rinehart & Winston 1996
Novels include: The Giver, To Kill A Mockingbird, O Pioneers,
MATHEMATICS (one math class required each semester)
ALGEBRA I (8, 9, 10, 11)
(Prerequisite: Math 8 or Pre-Algebra)
Materials needed: Scientific calculator. The content
and questions of this class integrate geometry, probability,
and statistics together with algebra. Pure and applied
mathematics are also integrated throughout. These topics are
not isolated as separate units of study or enrichment.
They are employed to motivate, justify, extend and otherwise
enhance important concepts of algebra. Four dimensions
of understanding are emphasized to maximize performance:
skill in carrying out various algorithms; developing
and using mathematics properties and relationships;
applying mathematics in realistic situations; and
representing or picturing mathematical concepts.
Students will learn to use mathematics effectively through
problem-solving experiences that include use of higher-order
thinking skills in daily assignments, a wide variety of
problem types in the questions, and open-ended problems.
TEXT: ALGEBRA, Prentice Hall, 2002
OR
GEOMETRY (9, 10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Algebra One) Materials
needed: Scientific calculator. Four dimensions of
understanding are emphasized: skill in drawing,
visualizing, and mathematical relationships and
proofs; using geometric ideas in real
situations; and representing geometric concepts with
coordinates, networks or other diagrams. There is a
significant amount of algebra employed to motivate, justify,
extend and otherwise enhance the geometry. The
coordinate and transformational approaches connect geometry
with algebra and transformations are functions which allow
all figures to be considered as geometric. This
text is particularly beneficial in any further study
of algebra and functions.
TEXT: GEOMETRY, Prentice Hall 2002
OR
ALGEBRA II (10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Algebra I) Materials needed: Scientific calculator.The
student is expected to work out daily assigned problems and exercises.
This course consists of a review of fundamentals, functional relations,
systems of equations, radicals, quadratic equations, exponents, powers,
roots, logarithms, sequences, equations of higher degree, matrices and
determinants. Extensive use of programmable/graphing calculators
is incorporated.
TEXT: Advanced Algebra, Prentice Hall, 2002.
Designed for: Algebra II is recommended for students planning to attend
a two or four year college.
ELEVENTH GRADE |
AMERICAN GOVERNMENT (11)
Course
Objectives/CLE's
First Semester:
1.
The U.S. Constitution and its amendments will be studied 4 days each week. This includes an in depth study of the Supreme Court and Civil Rights / Equal Justice cases.
2. Friday will be used jointly for the testing of eight cultural literacy terms and current events.
Second Semester:
1. A major unit on Watergate and Nixon’s Final Days in office. This includes answering questions using the book, reading “All the President’s Men” and watching the movie, and some documentaries about Watergate.
2. The weekly cultural literacy term quizzes continue the second semester.
3. The legislative, executive, and judicial branches of the federal government are studied with the Constitution, which lasts through first semester.
4. The Nebraska unicameral is studied.
5.
Each student must attend one school board meeting.
TEXT: Magruder’s American Government, Prentice Hall, 2006
"All the President’s Men" by Woodward and Bernstein
ENGLISH (11)
This class encompasses writing, literature, vocabulary, spelling, and grammar and usage study. The forms of writing each student will complete during the course of the year are as follows: memoir, interview profile, the short story, classification, examining changes, drawing conclusions, persuasive essay, critical analysis. Students will be required to prewrite, write, edit and rewrite each piece of written work for final evaluation. Each student will also be required to submit a portfolio of his/her written work for final evaluation, with an emphasis on persuasive writing in preparation for the state writing standards.
Vocabulary and spelling will be studied and tested on a weekly basis. Grammar study will include the eight parts of speech, the sentence, the phrase, the clause, correct agreement, using pronouns correctly, using verbs correctly, and using modifiers correctly. Usage study will include capitalization, and punctuation.
Literature study will cover the short story, the novel, drama and poetry. The student will concentrate on the different types of text, theme, elements of fiction, literary devices, and informational material in preparation for the state assessment.
TEXTS:
Wordskills by McDougal, Littell & Company, 1991.
The Writer's Craft -- by McDougal, Littell & Company, 1998.
Elements of Literature by Holt, Rinehart & Winston, 1996.
Novels include: Of Mice & Men, Great Gatsby, and The Crucible
MATHEMATICS (one math class required each semester)
GEOMETRY (9, 10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Algebra One) Materials
needed: Scientific calculator. Four dimensions of
understanding are emphasized: skill in drawing,
visualizing, and mathematical relationships and
proofs; using geometric ideas in real
situations; and representing geometric concepts with
coordinates, networks or other diagrams. There is a
significant amount of algebra employed to motivate, justify,
extend and otherwise enhance the geometry. The
coordinate and transformational approaches connect geometry
with algebra and transformations are functions which allow
all figures to be considered as geometric. This
text is particularly beneficial in any further study
of algebra and functions.
TEXT: GEOMETRY, Prentice Hall 2002
OR
ALGEBRA II (10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Algebra I) Materials needed: Scientific
calculator.The student is expected to work out daily
assigned problems and exercises. This course consists
of a review of fundamentals, functional relations, systems
of equations, radicals, quadratic equations, exponents,
powers, roots, logarithms, sequences, equations of higher
degree, matrices and determinants. Extensive use of
programmable/graphing calculators is incorporated.
TEXT: Advanced Algebra, Prentice Hall, 2002.
Designed for: Algebra II is recommended for students
planning to attend a two or four year college.
OR
FUNCTIONS, STATISTICS AND TRIGONOMETRY (11, 12) *CC
(Prerequisite: Geometry & Algebra II) This class was developed
to attract and keep students in mathematics. The course integrates
ideas of functions and trigonometry, with the statistics and data analysis
necessary to function successfully in the worlds of today and tomorrow.
FST builds the understanding with real-world problems, establishing a
firm foundation for future work in mathematics courses and in applications
the students will meet in their lives. FST provides an important
study of data analysis and statistics that all students need. Statistics
and algebraic concepts are integrated as students display, describe,transform,
interpret, and model numerical data. FST gives traditional topics
of trigonometry integrated with matrix representations and exploration
of real-world phenomena using the trigonometric functions.
TEXT: Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry. Addison, Wesley,
Longman, Inc. 1998
TWELFTH GRADE |
ENGLISH (12)
This class encompasses writing, literature, vocabulary, spelling, grammar and usage study. Each student will complete a research paper, and vocabulary will be studied and tested on a weekly basis. Literature study will cover the short story, the novel, drama and poetry. The student will concentrate on the different types of text, theme, elements of fiction and poetry, and literary devices.
TEXTS: Wordskills by McDougal, Littell & Company, 1991;
The Writer's Craft --by McDougal, Littell & Company, 1998;
Elements of Literature by Holt, Rinehart & Winston, 1989.
Novels include: Lord of the Flies, Death of a Salesman, In Cold Blood, and Fallen Angels.
OR
ENGLISH COMPOSITION ENG 1010 (12) (1st Sem.) *CC
Course Objectives/CLE's
English Composition 1010 is 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 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. TEXTS: Between Worlds: A Reader Rhetoric and Handbook, 2nd ed. Eds. Susan Backman and Melinda Barth. Addison-Wesley Longman, Inc., 1998.
ENGLISH COMPOSITION II-ENG 1020 (12) (2nd Sem.) *CC
Course Objectives/CLE's
(College Credit Writing) (Sem.) Similar to English Composition 1010, but with an emphasis on the technique of reading and explicating works of literature, particularly the novel and poetry.
TEXT: Literature: Reading Fiction, Poetry, Drama, and the Essay, 4th ed. Ed. Robert DiYanni. McGraw Hill, 1998.
OR
APPLIED BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS - (11,12) *CC
(Distance Learning)
Course Objectives/CLE's
The class curriculum is divided into four parts: business communication, employment communication, speech communication and the basics of English and writing communication.
The first quarter will address core communication tools including: self assessments, resumes, cover letters, and interviewing techiniques. The second quarter will focus on the essential principles of effective written communication which is needed for the fast-paced business world. Writing requests, replies, analyzing the receiver and distribution method as well as gathering and organizing a message will be covered. The third quarter will target speech skills and visual presentations such as PowerPoint while the last quarter reviews basic grammar usage skills and writing principles.
Texts: Four part series: Business Communication, Employment Communication, Speech Communication, Writing. Published by South-Western Publishing. Thompson Learning, Copyright 2000.
ELECTIVES |
ACCOUNTING I (10, 11, 12)
Planning a career in business? Owning your own
business? Need help for personal use? Accounting
I will give you the background knowledge for personal use or
continued study in a post-secondary school. You will
complete accounting tasks, using a double-entry system, for
service and merchandising businesses. Activities
include the completion of special problems using the
microcomputer.
TEXT: Century 21 Accounting, 6th edition, first year,
Swanson, Ross, Hanson, South-Western Publishing Co.,
l995.
ACCOUNTING II (11, 12) - This class is offered from Newcastle.
Study topics include the review of the basic accounting
model, accounting for merchandising operations, the use of
special-purpose journals, and the measuring and reporting of
assets and current liabilities. This course may be
taken for college credit through Northeast Community
College.
TEXT: Principles of Accounting, 6th Edition, Needles,
Anderson, Caldwell, Houghton Mifflin Co., 1996.
ACT PREPARATION/ADVANCED SPEECH (11, 12)
(Distance Learning)
This class is designed to prepare students for English and Reading portion of the ACT examination. Students examine the test procedure, test-taking strategies, content review, and sample questions. Practice test will be given weekly from a variety of sources including the ACT web site. In addition to this, a large portion of the class will deal with punctuation, (commas, colons, dashes/parentheses, and apostrophes) grammar (subject/verb agreement, adjective/adverb agreement and verb form) sentence structure, (sentence fragments, fused sentences and dangling modifiers) recognizing run-on sentences, organization problems, transitional words and contrast and comparison. The class is designed to help students recognize the errors in the ACT, learn to manage the time given for each test and gain confidence with the test format helping to eliminate test anxiety.
TEXT:
Correct Spelling, H.M. Rowe Company, 1981
Applied Punctuation, H.M. Rowe Company, 1980
The ACT Video Review Workbook, 1998
ALTERNATIVE ENERGIES (10, 11, 12) First Semester
(Prerequisite: Introduction to Agriculture or teacher’s signature) This class will learn the concepts involved with harnessing energy from new and/or alternative sources. Such sources include Hydroelectric, Biofuels, Solar, Wind, Tidal, and Nuclear.
BIOLOGY (11, 12) *CC
ADULT LIVING
Course Objectives/CLE's
You will gain the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions as you assume adult roles and responsibilities—to become independent, responsible, and engaged members of society, with emphasis on the next 5-10 years of your life. These decisions are organized into three broad categories: financial literacy, relationship literacy and life/work literacy. Topics studied include: YOU (personality, temperament, genetics, and environment), communication skills, relationship skills, sexuality, engagement & marriage, decision making in families, and taking care of financial responsibilities and managing money as an adult.
TEXT: Contemporary Living, Goodheart-Wilcox, 2004
ADVANCED HEALTH/ANATOMY, PHYSIOLOGY (11, 12)
Consists of the following short
courses:
1) Anatomy - the name and function of body parts.
2) Physiology-the study of the relationship between all the
internal organs.
3) Cytology-study of cells and their function.
4) Biochemistry-the interrelationship betweenbiology and
chemistry.
5) Histology-the study of different tissues that make-up the
human body. The use of activities, projects and labs
are used whenever possible to show how these systems are
related to human health. Science research projects are
incorporated into the curriculum. Safety is a priority.
TEXT: Principals of Anatomy and Physiology (7 Ed.) by
Tortora and Grabowski, John Wiley and Sons, 2000.
ADVANCED SPEECH (9, 10, 11, 12)
Course Objectives/CLE’s
Advanced Speech deals with the context of communication, sending and receiving of messages, listening strategies, communication confidence, interpersonal communication skills, group dynamics, leadership skills needed in communication, informative speaking, persuasive speaking, and other types of speeches.
The class will work on drama skills as well, including understanding theatrical techniques, different genre’s of drama and do performer reviews.
Text: Essentials of Speech Communication (2001) McDougal Littell
AGRIBUSINESS (11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Introduction to Agriculture, or teacher's signature) This class will learn the concepts and skills necessary for farm management and agribusiness management. Topics of study will include the following: Setting Goals, Record Keeping Systems, Net Worth, Cash Flow, Financial Analysis, Budget Analysis, Types of Budgeting systems, Cost and Return Analysis, Marketing a product and marketing strategies, Futures Commodities (the futures market), Risk Management, Investment Analysis, Taxes and Tax Considerations, Professional Organizations, Entrepreneurship, Farming Cooperatives, International Trade, and Agricultural Law. An Agricultural Current Event will be due every other Friday with written and oral evaluation. A Supervised Agricultural Experience Program (SAE) will be graded as 20% of the final grade.
TEXT: Farm and Ranch Business Management, John Deere, 1992.
AGRICULTURAL LEADERSHIP (11, 12)
1 year (Prerequisite: Introduction to Agriculture, or teachers signature) 1st semester (prerequisite: Introduction to Agriculture, or teachers signature) Available for Juniors and Seniors. This class will identify and practice leadership skills. The curriculum includes the following: Basic leadership styles, Identifying famous leaders, Visioning, Goal setting, Motivation, Stress management, Different forms of communication, Agricultural journalism and broadcasting, Group dynamics, How to influence others, Time management, Parliamentary procedure, Public speaking, Team building, Risk taking, and Code of ethics. An Agricultural Current Event will be due every other Friday with written and oral evaluation. A Supervised Agricultural Experience Program (SAE) will be graded as 20% of the final grade.
TEXT: Leadership: Personal Development & Career Success, Delmar Publishers, 1997.
AGRICULTURAL MECHANICS (10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Introduction to Agriculture, or
Introduction to Technology) In this class, students will
learn the concepts and basic skills necessary for a career
in welding and engine repair. The first semester will be
devoted to welding, starting with shop safety. Skills to be
mastered with different welding tools include flat welds,
fillet welds, t-welds, vertical welds, horizontal welds, and
overhead welds. A project will be designed, and constructed
to develop skills related to metal fabrication. The second
semester will be devoted to small engines and auto mechanics
with topics including: Engine designs, two stroke, four
stroke, and diesel engines, engine parts, and engine
maintenance. Small and large engines will be disassembled,
repaired, and assembled in class. Other agricultural skills
to be mastered include operation of a Global Positioning
System unit, surveying, sprayer calibration, and planter
calibration. Projects will be graded as 20% of the final
grade.
TEXT: Welding: Fundamental of Service, by John Deere (1991),
and Auto Fundamentals by Stockel, Stockel, and Johanson,
Goodheart Wilcox (1996)
ALGEBRA II (10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Algebra I) Materials needed: Scientific
calculator.The student is expected to work out daily
assigned problems and exercises. This course consists
of a review of fundamentals, functional relations, systems
of equations, radicals, quadratic equations, exponents,
powers, roots, logarithms, sequences, equations of higher
degree, matrices and determinants. Extensive use of
programmable/graphing calculators is incorporated.
TEXT: Advanced Algebra, Prentice Hall, 2002.
Designed for: Algebra II is recommended for students
planning to attend a two or four year college.
ANALYTICAL GEOMETRY& CALCULUS (12) *CC
(College Credit) (Prerequisite: Functions, Statistics and Trigonometry) This class is designed both for prospective mathematics majors and for students whose primary interest is in engineering, the physical and social sciences, or non-technical fields. The presentation of material is still geared to a beginner's experience and maturity. The step-by step explanations, abundant worked examples and wide variety of exercise continue to be distinctive features of this text. The nine chapters of TC7 cover functions of a single variable, limits, continuity, derivatives, and the definite integral with review and application of logarithmic, exponential, inverse and hyperbolic functions. This class can be taken for college credit.
TEXT: Calculus, Sixth Edition; Swokowski, Oliniick, Pence; PWS Publishing Company (1994)
ANIMAL SCIENCE (10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Introduction to Agriculture or teacher's signature) This class will learn the concepts and skills necessary for careers in animal science and livestock production. The class will discuss topics revolving around management and operation of dairy, beef, swine, sheep, poultry, and horse production including the following: Breeds of livestock, Animal parts and structure, Livestock judging, USDA quality and yield grades, Meat and Carcass Evaluation, Animal Reproduction, Genetics, Animal nutrition, and Vet science. An Agricultural Current Event will be due every other Friday with written and oral evaluation. A Supervised Agricultural Experience Program (SAE) will be graded as 20% of the final grade.
TEXTS:
Modern Livestock and Poultry Production 5th edition, Delmar Publishers, 1997.
Introduction to Veterinary Science 1st edition, Delmar Publishers, 2005.
APPLIED MATHEMATICS - (11, 12)
Course Objectives/CLE's
This course will ensure that students master the problem
solving and logical reasoning skills critical to success in
mathematics and everyday life. Application and career
lessons motivate students to solve various types of problems
applied to personal life and the trades. Calculators are
allowed and necessary throughout this course. This course is
designed for Seniors not taking Advanced Mathematics, or
Juniors supplementing their math who wish to review basic
algebra and math skills. The non-college bound student or
student planning to attend a technical school will benefit
from this course.
TEXT: Mathematics for the Trades, Prentice Hall, 2005.
ART I (9, 10, 11, 12)
Art I is basically a survey course that introduces the
student to as many different types of art processes and
media as possible. There is a heavy emphasis on
drawing, since that skill is easily learnable through
drawing instruction, and is basic to every other art process
done in this class. Drawing media include pencil,
charcoal, colored pencil, pastels, pen and ink, and oil
pastel, to name a few. Students will also learn
painting techniques with watercolor, tempera, and acrylic
media, as well as printmaking. Three dimensional work
will include simple sculpture projects. Students will learn
about commercial art, available art and art related careers,
and the importance of art in the world around them.
Finally, Art I students will learn about artists of the past
and present,art movements, how to look at art critically,
and how to express themselves through the art they
create.
TEXT: Art In Focus, Glencoe McGraw-Hill, 1994 and Themes
& Foundations in Art, West, 1995
ART II (10, 11, 12)
Art II is a continuation of the skills and knowledge
learned in Art I. A broader range of drawings (subject
matter and media) will be offered, and the processes will be
slightly more complicated and demanding. Students will
generally do projects that are larger, and rendering skills
will be sharpened. Students will also be given the
opportunity to incorporate more feeling into their artwork
through a freer use of color and line. Students will do
several three dimensional projects, including sculpture,
clay projects, and craft-type activities. Again,
commercial artwork experiences are offered, and a field trip
is usually scheduled, offering students the opportunity to
visit businesses which employ artists. Finally, Art II
students will learn about artists of the past and present,
explor art created in the world around them.
TEXT: Art In Focus, Glencoe McGraw-Hill, 1994 and Themes
& Foundations in Art, West, 1995
ART III (11, 12)
Art III is a level of art where students should have
knowledge of the basic techniques of drawing, painting,
printmaking, and design. They will have had the
opportunity to work with almost every media this department
has to offer, so this third course in art to experiment with
color, variations of technique, and mixing medias. The
projects will be larger, and imagination, emotion, and
spontaneity will be incorporated into every activity to a
much greater extent. Specialized design will be
emphasized, and portfolios will be developed for students
wishing to have them. Several three dimensional
projects will be required, and commercial art will be
explored more extensively. Finally, Art III students
will continue to learn about artists of the past and
present, explore art movements, and learn how to
intelligently critique the art they create and the art
created in the world around them.
TEXT: Art In Focus, Glencoe McGraw-Hill, 1994 and Themes
& Foundations in Art, West, 1995
ART IV (12)
Students in Art IV will be considered to be contemplating
an art related career, and will use the time in this class
to explore the processes and techniques that they most
enjoy. Projects will be decided by the teacher and the
student, but all the general art work categories will be
explored: drawing (all media), painting, printing making,
craft processes, clay, sculpture, commercial art, and
design. General mixed media projects will be assigned.
Students will endeavor to create polished projects for
portfolio display and scholarship consideration, though
students will not necessarily use their portfolio in this
way if they are not planning to pursue the field of
art. College level craftsmanship will be required.
TEXT: Art In Focus, Glencoe McGraw-Hill, 1994 and Themes
& Foundations in Art, West, 1995
BAND (9, 10, 11, 12)
At this level, quality performance, competition, self-discipline, and pride play a very big role in our program. A variety of music from various styles is presented each year. Six (6) objectives are used and are listed in the curriculum guide. Public concerts are performed which include the Veteran's Day Program, Christmas Concert, Spring Concert, along with jazz band competitions, District Music Contest, pep band performances, commencement, and other depending on public request. Three-six trips are taken during the year including marching band competition, jazz band competitions, district music contest, possible concert tour and state fair. The high school pep band (when available) also performs at football, volleyball and basketball games.
CAREERS/MEDIA (9, 10, 11, 12)
Course Objectives/CLE's
This course is a project-based class. Throughout the year students will be initiating projects related to the 6 field clusters. These career clusters are Business, Marketing and Management; Environmental and Agricultural Systems; Communication and Information Systems; Industrial, Manufacturing, and Engineering Systems; Health Sciences; and Human Services and Resources. Through these projects students will have a better understanding on how to lead, direct and manage projects and people. This in turn should provide them with resumes experiences. This course will also focus on designing, implementing and producing the yearbook. Students will be engaged in photography, writing and will use a program called Indesign to create the yearbook.
TEXT: Working, by Southwestern, 2007; Exploring Careers, Glencoe, 2007; Nebraska Career Connections Website.
CHEMISTRY (11, 12)
(Must have or be taking Algebra II) Atomic theory and molecular concept, kinetic theory, atomic structure and chemical bonding, principles of chemical reactions and molecular structure. Fundamental concepts of chemistry will be introduced, developed and utilized.
TEXT: Chemistry: The Study of Matter. Prentice Hall 1992.
CHILD DEVELOPMENT/HOUSING
Course Objectives/CLE's
Parenting styles, pregnancy, birth and the development of the child through age 6 are studied. Research on the costs of baby, choosing safe child care, and car seat safety will be some of the information learned in this class. Hands on projects with children will be an important part of the learning in Child Development. In Housing, you will learn about the universal need for housing and how it is met around the world. Styles of housing in the U.S., reading floor plans, the elements and principles of design, and an interior decorating project will be the main areas of learning in this class.
TEXT: Residential Housing, Goodheart-Wilcox (1992).
CHORUS (9, 10, 11, 12)
Sr. High Mixed Chorus is for students in grades 9-12. The focus of the class is to improve the quality of life for all students by developing their capacities to participate fully in their musical culture. Choir consists of a well-planned sequence of learning experiences which are challenging and rigorous. The music studied reflects a broad range of genres, styles and periods. The music performed is of the highest quality within each genre, style and period. Skills in music literacy (reading music) are emphasized. Vocal technique, aimed at healthy, technically correct vocal production, is stressed which will enable the participants to have confidence in their musical capabilities and enjoy singing throughout their lives. The group will perform in school concerts (3-4), clinics, and contests scheduled throughout the school year. Students seeking personal enrichment experiences will have the opportunity to participate in auditioned Honor Choirs, and All State Festivals. In addition, students are encouraged to become involved in community/church musical activities.
Swing Choir is an auditioned group open to choir members only.
COMMUNITY SCIENCE (11, 12)
This course is application based inquiry approach to teaching science concepts used in everyday life. Problem solving and group projects will be used throughout the curriculum. Topics will include consumer chemistry, agriculture, health, water science, ecology, local and global issues, and technology.
TEXT: Chemistry in the Community (4th Edition), W.H. Freeman 1988.
COMPUTER APPLICATIONS (9, 10, 11, 12)
This course is advancing into the 21st century skills. iMac computer programs will be used to produce mail able business forms. Both proofreading and formatting skills will be emphasized. Students will gain advanced skills in word processing, database, and spreadsheets using both Word and Appleworks. Students will also use iphoto, imovie, idvd to produce a DVD.
TEXT: Century 21 Keyboarding & Information Processing, South-Western, 1997 An Introduction to Computing Using ClarisWorks, Lawrenceville Press, 1996.
CURRENT ISSUES (12)
This elective is designed as a one-year course. It requires the instructor’s permission to enter. Students study world events plus current issues that affect the U. S. and Nebraska mainly through newspaper articles. Many of these articles are analyzed by the students in writing as well as discussed in class.
You need to have an interest in keeping up with the news and at least a “B” average in social studies to qualify for this elective course.
DRAFTING TECHNOLOGY (10, 11, 12)
This class is open to any 10-12th grade student, with Intro to Tech as a preferred prerequisite. Students going into all technical areas and engineering are encouraged to take this class. Areas of study include: architectural drafting, and mechanical drafting. Each student will design a house, draw complete plans, and construct a house to scale. In mechanical drawing the student will draw isometric and multi-view drawings of actual industrial problems. In Advanced Drafting all drawings will be on the computer.
TEXT: AutoCad and Its Applications Basics, Shumaker & Madsen, Goodheart-Wilcox, 2000, Learning 3D Viz, Tickoo & McLees, Goodheart-Wilcox, 2000.
ELECTRICITY/ADVANCED WOODWORKING (10, 11, 12)
House wiring is offered the first semester to students in grades 10-12. Topics covered are electrical terms, conductors, electrical cord safety, conduit, boxes, switches, outlets, service requirements, house wiring circuits and modernizing electrical systems. Students spend 7 weeks working in the lab on actual house wiring circuits. A competency test over 10 circuits is given at the end of the first semester. The main objective of this semester is to gain the understanding and knowledge to be able to wire a house. Second semester basic electronics covers topics on the science of electronics, sources of electricity, circuits and power, magnetism, electric motors. About 7 weeks are spent on assembling an AM radio from a Heath Kit. The main objective is to give each student a background in electronics, and some hands-on-experience in building a radio from a kit.
Advanced Woodworking Class is open to any student that has completed the Woodworking I course. Course content is designed to expand woodworking skills to a high level. Students are encouraged to develop independent work habits and self-motivation is necessary to complete a complex project.
TEXT: Applied Electricity and Electronics, Bayne, Goodheart-Wilcox, 2000.
ENGLISH COMPOSITION ENG 1010 (12) (1st Sem.) *CC
Course Objectives/CLE's
English Composition 1010 is 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
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.
TEXT: Between Worlds: A Reader Rhetoric and
Handbook, 2nd ed. Eds. Susan Backman and Melinda
Barth. Addison-Wesley Longman, Inc., 1998.
ENGLISH COMPOSITION II-ENG 1020 (12) (2nd Sem.) *CC
Course Objectives/CLE's
(College Credit Writing) (Sem.) Similar to English
Composition 1010, but with an emphasis on the technique of
reading and explicating works of literature, particularly
the novel and poetry.
TEXT: Literature: Reading Fiction, Poetry,
Drama, and the Essay, 4th ed. Ed. Robert DiYanni.
McGraw Hill, 1998.
FOODS & NUTRITION
Course Objectives/CLE's
Foods & Nutrition will teach you skills for life in the areas of food preparation and how diet impacts your life. If you plan on going into any health care career or just want to know more about nutrition for personal application, this course gives you the foundation of nutrition knowledge. Interspersed between nutrition principles are food preparation skills and techniques, food safety, designing your kitchen, and learning about how foods interact through various foods labs/cooking/baking experiences.
FUNCTIONS, STATISTICS AND TRIGONOMETRY (11, 12) *CC
(Prerequisite: Geometry & Algebra II) This
class was developed to attract and keep students in
mathematics. The course integrates ideas of functions
and trigonometry, with the statistics and data analysis
necessary to function successfully in the worlds of today
and tomorrow. FST builds the understanding with
real-world problems, establishing a firm foundation for
future work in mathematics courses and in applications the
students will meet in their lives. FST provides an
important study of data analysis and statistics that all
students need. Statistics and algebraic concepts are
integrated as students display, describe, transform,
interpret, and model numerical data. FST gives
traditional topics of trigonometry integrated with matrix
representations and exploration of real-world phenomena
using the trigonometric functions.
TEXT: Functions, Statistics, and Trigonometry.
Addison, Wesley, Longman, Inc. 1998
INDEPENDENT SCIENCE RESEARCH (9, 10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Teacher's Signature) Science Research is
offered only on an instructor approval basis to students
9-12 with aspecial interest in science. Students need
to be enrolled in all science and math classes to be
eligible for this course. This class is inquiry based
with students working on various research projects to serve
the needs of high ability or high interest students.
Students are expected to participate in field trips and
additional activities outside the classroom. Special short
research projects will be given to students. These
instructor designedprojects help the student develop or
improve information gathering techniques, deductive
reasoning and data analysis. Students will also be
working on a special interest project of their own
design. The data that is gathered will be kept in a
daily log book so that this information can be organized
into a paper. These papers will be presented to judges at a
yearly Junior Academy of Science contest at Wayne State
College. Students should be taking all the science and
math classes Laurel offers in order to qualify. Safety is a
priority.
TEXT: Biological Science: Interaction of Experiments and
Ideas by BSCS, Prentice-Hall, (BSCS), 1977.
INTRODUCTION TO AGRICULTURE (9)
Introduction to Agriculture is designed to present students to all aspects of the agricultural program and the FFA. Concepts and skills learned will include the following: The FFA organization, Parliamentary procedure, Soils, Weed identification, Insects, Plant propagation, Ag chemicals, Sustainable agriculture, Record books, Livestock judging, Small animals, Livestock production, Animal health, Genetics, Meat identification, Ag technology, Welding, and Careers in agriculture. An Agricultural Current Event will be due every other Friday with oral evaluation. A Supervised Agricultural Experience Program (SAE) will be graded as 20% of the final grade.
TEXT: Agriscience Fundamentals and Applications 4th edition, Delmar Publishers, 2004.
INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS (9, 10, 11, 12)
Students will study a wide range of topics related to business. These include: Our Economic Environment, Business
and Government in Our Global Economy, Technology for
Business Decisions, Careers in Our Global Economy, Consumers
in the Economy, Financial Institutions and Banking Services,
Credit in Our Economy, Savings and Investment Strategies,
Risk Management, Personal Financial Management, and Small
Business Management.
TEXT: Introduction to Business, South Western Ed.
Pub.; 1997.
INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS ENGLISH (11, 12) *CC
Course Objectives/CLE's
INTRODUCTION TO HSR/HUMAN RELATIONS (9, 10, 11, 12)
Course Objectives/CLE's
Introduction to Human Services and Resources is a class for anyone considering a career in the Human Services and Resources Career Field, which includes the clusters Education & Training, Human Services, Government & Public Administration and Law, and Public Safety & Security. You will experience how the foundation knowledge and skills like communication, ethics, leadership and teamwork relate to the HSR career field. You will also consider these as applied to your multiple roles of family member, wage earner and citizens. The Human Relations part of this class will focus on leadership styles, forms of communication, people management, public speaking, and team building. The Human Relations course will culminate with the development of a portfolio focused on personal and leadership projects and experiences.
INTRODUCTION TO TECHNOLOGY (9, 10, 11, 12)
This program is based on exploring new industrial processes. A cluster of areas are explored, which consist of welding, power mechanics, drafting, computer drafting, Metric 500, an CNC Lathe. In each of these areas the subject matter is more academic in information. The students develop a working knowledge of each area and work on actual problems faced in industry.
LIFE SKILLS
Course Objectives/CLE's
This is a comprehensive introductory Family and Consumer Sciences class. Units on self, personality, goal setting, challenges, communication, family, friends, management of time and money, laundry and home care are studied in the fall. The spring semester includes units on foods and nutrition with foods labs, clothing and construction with a sewing project, housing with an interior design project, and an introduction to child development.
TEXT: Building Life Skills, Goodheart-Wilcox, 2003
LIFETIME FITNESS (9, 10, 11, 12)
This class will be open to grades 9-12, with an emphasis on individual fitness and conditioning improvement through activities such as running, weight training, plyometrics, stretching exercises and aerobics. Students are expected to improve their strength levels, lower their resting heart rate, improve their agility, and become more flexible as a result of his/her individual program. Students will be expected to maintain a weight training log and resting heart rate log. The course is designed to demonstrate fitness activities and habits that students can use after graduation. All Laurel-Concord students involved in athletics are encouraged to take this course once the physical education requirements have been met.
LIFETIME SPORTS/HEALTH (9, 10, 11, 12)
High school students will participate in seasonal activities such as swimming, pickleball, CPR, flag football, basketball, softball, bocce ball, archery, badminton, weight lifting, bowling, golf, and volleyball. Each activity unit will include practicing skills, learning rules and dimensions, and playing or participating in the activity. *Fitness testing will be done in the fall and spring.
Students will be in health for one semester. During this time students will study units on emotional development, mental health and mental disorders, stress, physical fitness, nutrition and weight control, caring for the body, conception and birth (including male and female reproductive systems, conception and prenatal development), adolescence, marriage and parenthood, aging and death, drugs, alcohol, and smoking, infectious diseases (including sexually transmitted diseases, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, first aid and environmental health). The course is designed to give students information in all areas of health-physical, social, emotional and environmental.
TEXT: Health - Making Life Choices, Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, 2000
MICROSOFT OFFICE XP (11, 12) - CC*
Online
Businesses prefer hiring applicants who can prove proficiency in computer knowledge. Microsoft Office offers students the opportunity to become certified in Microsoft Word (word processing software) and Microsoft Excel (spreadsheet software). Microsoft PowerPoint (presentation software) and Microsoft Access (database software) will also be a part of the class work. This class is offered online and can be taken any period; students from other schools have the opportunity to enroll in this course taught at Laurel-Concord Public School.
TEXT: Microsoft Office XP- Introductory Concepts and Techniques, 2002
MONEY MANAGEMENT (11, 12)
This course combines a variety of topics all related to money and finances. Topics taught in this course include: Budgeting, Credit, Investing, Banking, Vacationing, Cars, Housing, Insurance, Taxes, Working which involves writing your resume, cover letter, and interviewing. Math problems, writing assignments, current events, simulations, class discussions, field trips will be used to help prepare students when they are living on their own. Students taking this course will have a better understanding of how to budget for the future.
TEXT: C.W. Publications Software Dollars and Sense
PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH (9, 10, 11, 12)
This course will combine components of the Lifetime Sports course with an emphasis on individual fitness and activities. Topics from the Lifetime Sports class will include pickleball, basketball, volleyball, bocce ball, ultimate frisbee, swimming, badminton, and other activities. Individual activities will include archery, horseshoes, orienteering, fitness walks, weight lifting, bowling, golf, and an emphasis on personal fitness and personal fitness assessment.
Students will be in health for one semester. During this time students will study units on emotional development, mental health and mental disorders, stress, physical fitness, nutrition and weight control, caring for the body, conception and birth (including male and female reproductive systems, conception and prenatal development), adolescence, marriage and parenthood, aging and death, drugs, alcohol, and smoking, infectious diseases (including sexually transmitted diseases, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, first aid and environmental health). The course is designed to give students information in all areas of health-physical, social, emotional and environmental.
TEXT: Health - Making Life Choices, Glencoe/McGraw-Hill, 2000
PHYSICS (11, 12)
(Must have or be taking Algebra II) A strong background in physics is provided by stressing the major concepts that students will need to apply regularly. Also studied are:
Fundamental mathematics, measurement, straight line motion, graphical analysis of motion, vectors, dynamics, momentum and its conservation, motion in two dimensions, universal gravitation, work and power, energy and its conservation, hear, optics, electricity, magnetism, atomic physics.
TEXT: Physics – Principles and Problems. Merrill Publishing, 1990.
PLANT SCIENCE (10, 11, 12)
(Prerequisite: Introduction to Agriculture or teacher's signature) This class will learn concepts related to botany, soil science, crop science, horticulture, and landscape design. Topics to be covered in these areas include: Soil fertility, Soil conservation, Organic matter, Crop production, Forage production, Irrigation systems and management, Sustainable agriculture, Plant diseases, Insects, Plant propagation, Hydroponics, Floriculture, Landscape designs, Genetics and Biotechnology.
An Agricultural Current Event will be due every other Friday with written and oral evaluation.
A Supervised Agricultural Experience Program (SAE) will be graded as 20% of the final grade.
TEXT: Introduction to Plant and Soil Science and Technology, Interstate Publishers, 1997.
SPANISH I (9, 10, 11, 12)
The Spanish I curriculum focuses on written and oral
communication. Basic Spanish grammar, vocabulary,
reading, writing, listening and speaking skills are
emphasized. The textbook, workbook, worksheets, and
classroom practice provide opportunities to use the
language, and to explore the Hispanic culture.
TEXT: Ven Conmigo - Level I, Holt-Rinehart-Winston,
2000.
SPANISH II (10, 11, 12)
Spanish II continues the curriculum of Spanish I with
more in-depth grammar and vocabulary study. Reading,
writing, listening and speaking skills continue to be
emphasized.
TEXT: Ven Conmigo - Level I, Holt-Rinehart-Winston,
2000.
SPANISH III (11, 12)
Spanish III begins with an intensive review of the basics
covered in Spanish I and Spanish II. Using the skills
previously learned, the students will continue to improve
their reading, writing, speaking, and comprehension
skills.
TEXT: Ven Conmigo - Level II, Holt-Rinehart-Winston,
2000.
SPANISH IV (12)
Spanish IV begins with an intensive review of the basics
covered in Spanish I, Spanish II, and Spanish III.
Using the skills previously learned, the students will
continue to improve their reading, writing, speaking, and
comprehension skills.
TEXT: Ven Conmigo - Level III, Holt-Rinehart-Winston,
2000.
WILDLIFE AND NATURAL RESOURCES (10, 11, 12)
2nd Semester
(Prerequisite: Introduction to Agriculture or teacher’s signature) This class will learn the concepts and skills necessary for careers pertaining to conservation and wildlife. Curriculum will focus on Energy sources, Soil conservation, Waste management, Ground water conservation, Habitats and habitat management, Private and public wildlife, Life cycles of birds, animals and fish, Endangered species, Sustainable agriculture, Hunting, Fishing, and Trapping. An Agricultural Current Event will be due every other Friday with written and oral evaluation. A Supervised Agricultural Experience Program (SAE) will be graded as 20% of the final grade.
TEXT: Wildlife and Natural Resource Management, Delmar Publishers, 1998.
WOODWORKING I (10, 11, 12)
In the class the student has a full year of beginning woodworking.
The first 9-10 weeks of school is all classroom with the following areas
of study: tool care, hand tools, power tools. The student begins work
in the lab on a project general knowledge of woodworking. Open to all
students 10-12.
TEXT: Modern Woodworking by Wagner, Goodheart & Wilcox, 1980.
[ 9th Grade | 10th Grade | 11th Grade | 12th Grade | Electives | 7-8 Courses ]