2022-23 EPHS Courses | EPHS | EPCUSD 401

ART COURSES

INTRO TO ART

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This is an introductory visual arts course that integrates art with students' personal and academic interests and their ability to explore and communicate ideas and concepts. Through learning foundational drawing, painting and ceramic skills, students will practice creative thinking, self-expression, planning and problem solving. Technology will be used to create drawings and support various aspects of the art-making process.

PHOTOGRAPHY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	Intro to Art

This course is an introduction to photography course, which exposes students to the materials, processes and artistic techniques of taking artistic photographs. Students learn about the operation of a digital camera, composition, lighting techniques, camera angles and basic photo editing. As students advance, the instruction regarding the creative process becomes more refined, and students are encouraged to develop their own artistic style.

DRAWING

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	Intro to Art

This course is designed to develop the student's ability to draw from observation using a wide variety of materials and techniques. Figure drawing, abstraction and realism will be explored. Students will learn how to experiment, practice and develop ideas.

PAINTING

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	Intro to Art

This course provides a basic understanding of the tools, processes and language relative to painting media. Students will synthesize these understandings into individual paintings. Learners will integrate and build upon their knowledge of color theory, composition and drawing to create paintings of subjects in traditional and abstract styles.

CERAMICS AND SCULPTURE

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	Intro to Art

This course is for students with a personal interest in pottery and other 3D media. Students will create three-dimensional artwork, using a variety of sculptural techniques and media such as clay hand-building techniques, wheel throwing, plaster and paper mache. Within the projects there will be an emphasis on planning, sketching, multiculturalism, art history and art criticism.

ADVANCED CERAMICS AND SCULPTURE (HONORS)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	Intro to Art, Ceramics and Sculpture

In this honors course, students will learn advanced ceramic and sculptural techniques. Students will expand on previous sculptural media and techniques. Students will work on concepts, such as abstract sculptures, symbolism and expressionism. Students will learn advanced processes such as glass, jewelry, plaster and advanced ceramic techniques. Students will build upon skills learned in Ceramics and Sculpture such as wheel throwing.

ADVANCED DRAWING AND PAINTING (HONORS)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	Intro to Art, Painting or Drawing

Advanced 2D is a drawing and painting studio class for students who have successfully passed Drawing or Painting. This advanced studio class will focus on expanding techniques and ideas learned in previous art classes as well as prepare students for AP Studio Art. It is a semester-long class that can be taken in conjunction with another art class.

AP STUDIO ART: DRAWING

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	Intro to Art, Drawing and Painting

AP STUDIO ART: 2D DESIGN

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	Intro to Art, Drawing and Painting

As an AP art student, you will be asked to emphasize research, experimentation, discovery, inventive thinking and art making, critical analysis and problem solving in your work. Your goal will be to create a portfolio of college-level work, and at the end of the school year submit it for evaluation. A qualifying portfolio score can earn college credit and/or advanced placement. You will submit a digital portfolio as well as actual artworks. Each portfolio has two sections: Selected Works and a Sustained Investigation. In the Sustained Investigation section you will need to create a body of artwork that is guided by inquiry and shows an in-depth study of practices, experimentation and revision with a variety of materials, processes and ideas. In the Selected Works section you will need to show five artworks that show advanced skill of the 2D, 3D or Drawing principles of design. Within the three different portfolios, there is no preference for materials or methods of art making.

AP STUDIO ART: 3D DESIGN

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	Intro to Art, Ceramics and Sculpture

BUSINESS COURSES

BUSINESS PRINCIPLES I

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This course is designed to provide students with an overall understanding of many aspects of the business world, including concepts, functions and skills for meeting the challenges of operating a business. Business Principles will unlock the mysteries of what businesses are, how they work and what impact they have on students' lives. Students will learn about our economic environment, business ownership, and how business and government function in our economy. This course will also serve as a background for future business courses at Elmwood Park High School.

BUSINESS PRINCIPLES II

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This course is a continuation of the topics covered in Business Principles I. The topics expanded upon include careers in our global economy, business ethics and small business management concepts. Students will learn about basic functional areas, such as finance, management, marketing, administration and production. Students will prepare for roles as consumers, workers and citizens. This course will also serve as a background for future business courses at Elmwood Park High School.

CONSUMER EDUCATION*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	None

This course provides students with personal financial management techniques. Students learn how to clarify their own values, goals and priorities before they are faced with adult concerns. Students will cover financial and resource management topics. Consumer topics addressed include shopping, automobile ownership, housing, banking services, credit, taxes, insurance and consumer action.

*This course DOES satisfy the Consumer Education requirement for the State of Illinois.

INFORMATION PROCESSING I

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

Students will develop basic skills in touch keyboarding and proper technique. Major emphasis is placed on keyboarding techniques, speed and accuracy development, proofreading and the correction of errors. Formatting and production that meet business standards are introduced.

INFORMATION PROCESSING II

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	Information Processing I

Information Processing II reinforces skills learned in Information Processing I. Special emphasis is placed on production formatting in an effort to help students complete a variety of work in a limited amount of time. Students will use the features of word processing software as a tool to create and upload documents and to put together slideshows using presentation software. Students will create business letters, prepare reports, edit and utilize spreadsheets, create memorandums and engage in business correspondence. Students will review basic language skills with data to create customizable reports and letters. This course will incorporate keyboarding skills and the editing, formatting and printing of documents.

DIGITAL LITERACY I*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This course is designed to teach the fundamentals of using digital devices to provide students with employability skills that are of high demand in the workplace. Students will gain experience and practical application through hands-on use of word processing, computer concepts, the internet, telecommunications, information-processing equipment and emerging communication software. The following topics will be covered: editing and formatting text and documents, illustrating documents with graphics, merging files, internet safety, privacy and security, digital footprints and online reputations, information literacy, creative credit and copyrights, digital citizenship and ethical issues. Integration of the Microsoft Office Suite, Google and several open source applications will be used as application tools in this learning environment. Workplace skills as well as communication skills will be taught and integrated throughout this course.

*Students may have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized digital literacy certification as part of this course.

DIGITAL LITERACY II*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	Digital Literacy I

This course is designed to teach the fundamentals of using electronic devices to provide students with skills for working in an internet or networked work environment at both entry-level and upper-level management positions. Students will gain experience and practical applications through hands-on use of spreadsheet software, presentation software, the internet and communication software. The following topics will be covered: worksheet basics, formatting and editing worksheets, calculating worksheet data, working with charts, creating slideshows and presentations, as well as a continuation of the themes of privacy and security, digital footprints and online reputations, information literacy, creative credit and copyrights, digital citizenship and ethical issues. Integration of the Microsoft Office Suite, Google and several open source applications will be used as application tools in this learning environment.

*Students may have the opportunity to earn industry-recognized digital literacy certification as part of this course.

ACCOUNTING I/II

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	None

Accounting I & II are skill-level courses that are of value to all students pursuing a background in business, finance, marketing and management. These courses include planned learning experiences that develop initial and basic skills used in systematically computing, classifying, recording, verifying and maintaining numerical data involved in financial and product control records, including the paying and receiving of money. Instruction includes the interpretation and analysis of data to provide assistance to management for decision making.

Accounting computer applications will be integrated throughout the course where applicable. Career opportunities in the accounting field will be discussed throughout the school year. Practice sets will be utilized throughout the school year. Practice sets with business papers will be used to emphasize actual business records management. These courses provide a technical background for college-bound students who plan a business curriculum as well as for those who wish vocational preparation.

FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	None

The accounting cycle, system design, cash control, inventory methods, receivables and depreciation methods will be covered in the accounting section. The Investments portion of the class will introduce planning, implementing and managing a successful investment program. Students will experience investing by raising money and investing in the stock market.

MARKETING I*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	None

This course provides a basic understanding of marketing principles. Topics include marketing, buyer behavior, trend analysis, advertising, wholesaling, merchandising, pricing and product development.

*Students who enroll in this course will complete the application process to become a student at Triton College. Completion of Marketing II is required to obtain the college credit.

MARKETING II — MERCHANDISING AND SALES*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	Marketing I

This course is a continuation of Marketing I with a focus on the dynamic activities that are associated with merchandising. Students will become acquainted with the various marketing careers, wholesaling, pricing, sales promotion, creative selling techniques, merchandise planning and advertising.

*Students who enroll in this course will complete the application process to become a student at Triton College. Upon acceptance by Triton College and completion of the course in addition to Marketing I with a final grade of C or better in both marketing courses, the student will receive dual credit from Triton College.

COMPUTER GRAPHICS I

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This is an introductory class exploring the manipulation of images and symbols through the use of the stated software, photography, source images (internet), printed page, scanners and the historical and design process/techniques. Students will use image-editing programs to manipulate scanned images, computer graphics and original artwork, as well as creating graphical headers, interactive menus and buttons, and visually appealing backgrounds. Through this course, students will experiment with the language of design to create a variety of works that will be incorporated into a marketing portfolio. Students will work with Adobe Photoshop.

COMPUTER GRAPHICS II

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This is an introductory class exploring the manipulation of images and symbols through the use of the stated software, photography, source images (internet), printed page, scanners and the historical and design process/techniques. Through this course, students will experiment with the language of design to create a variety of works that will be incorporated into a marketing portfolio. Students will learn the fundamentals of web-page design using HTML, HTML editors and graphic editors and Javascript. Students will work with Adobe Illustrator, Adobe Photoshop and Adobe InDesign.

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10, 11, 12	Algebra 1

AP Computer Science Principles offers a multidisciplinary approach to teaching the underlying principles of computation. The course will introduce students to the creative aspects of programming, abstractions, algorithms, large data sets, the internet, cybersecurity concerns and computing impacts. AP Computer Science Principles will give students the opportunity to use technology to address real-world problems and build relevant solutions. The AP Assessment for this course includes two performance tasks that will be integrated into class time and will be submitted electronically to the College Board, as well as a written end-of-course exam. Scores on each of these components will be used to determine the student's total AP score.

DIGITAL ANIMATION

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This studio class is a computer-based course that explores a variety of animation techniques and production techniques. Through the creation of short digital animations, students will explore two-dimensional methods of animation, methods of production, basic editing processes, stylistic/visual concerns and how to incorporate the images onto web-enabled files. Instruction will include multimedia authoring, applications and programming tools such as Javascript to use hardware and software to capture, edit and create animated text, graphics and images. This will be incorporated into a marketing portfolio. Students will work with Adobe Animate.

WEBSITE DESIGN

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This class is designed to introduce students to website design using a Microsoft Windows operating system. Students will use this technology to develop web pages using HTML coding in the Adobe Dreamweaver program. Those students who are interested in art, design or website development and plan to enter the world of advertising, web design or film animation would benefit from this class. Course activities include developing individual web pages, coding, and website planning and design. There are no prerequisites for this course, but it is recommended that students have basic computer skills and knowledge.

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING I

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	Algebra

This course is an interactive introductory course for students brand new to programming that teaches the foundations of computer science using the Python language. Focus will be on developing algorithms, number calculations and data, making decisions, and repetition and loops. Learn how to think computationally and solve complex problems, skills that are important for every career.

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING II

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	Computer Programming I

This course builds on the basic coding structures and skills from Computer Programming I to add graphics, functions, arrays, 2D arrays and internet coding. Learn how to think computationally and solve complex problems.

VIRTUAL ENTERPRISE INTERNATIONAL I & II*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	One credit of business education

This capstone course provides a macro-level simulated business environment in which students create and manage a virtual company, conducting business with other virtual firms nationally and internationally. Students are involved in every aspect of running the business (formulating, analyzing and evaluating decisions), including human resources, accounting, product development, production, distribution, marketing and sales. In the simulated business environment, students belong to a specific department depending on skills, prior knowledge and personal interest. Leadership opportunities within the firm provide further relevant experience. The program enables participants to experience careers, acquire global economic knowledge, learn about interconnections among the industry and government, develop interpersonal and organizational skills, utilize technology as applied in business, and gain a clear understanding of how employees work together to meet the goals of the company while at the same time conveying the professional expectations of the workplace. This is a repeatable credit course.

*Students who enroll in this course will complete the application process to become a student at Triton College. Upon acceptance by Triton College and completion of the course with a final grade of C or better, the student will receive dual credit from Triton College.

BUSINESS LAW

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	None

This course is designed to provide an understanding of the basic principles as applied to ordinary business transactions. It provides instruction in guarding against ordinary legal errors. The laws of contracts, negotiable papers, employer and employee relationships, agency bailments and insurance are stressed. Since many of the cases are presented from the business point of view, the course may be considered as a business background as well as a personal use course.

DRIVER EDUCATION COURSES

DRIVER EDUCATION — CLASSROOM

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	Must be at least 15 years old on the first day of the course

This one-semester course is typically offered at the sophomore level. The classroom phase of driver education is designed to cultivate desirable attitudes toward safe driving and traffic safety, with an emphasis on applicable rules and regulations. Upon successful completion of the classroom and behind-the-wheel instruction, students are able to attain an Illinois State Driver's License.

According to the Illinois School Code 105 ILCS 5/27-24.2: Each student must be enrolled in high school and receive a passing grade in at least eight courses during the previous two semesters prior to enrolling in a driver education course.

DRIVER EDUCATION — BEHIND THE WHEEL

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE	FEE
No credit	9, 10, 11, 12	Previous or concurrent enrollment in the classroom portion	$275

The driving phase of driver education will be offered to students before school or after school and during the summer. To be enrolled in this course, students must have taken the classroom portion of driver education or be concurrently enrolled. This course consists of six hours of behind-the-wheel time with a certified instructor and approximately 12 hours of driving observation. Grades are issued for the course.

Please note that the registration process for BTW has been revised. Only students currently enrolled in Driver Education — Classroom will be allowed to register for BTW. Each semester the school will accept 36 students for BTW instruction. If time permits, and more students can be accommodated, the school may open registration for a limited number of students.

ENGLISH COURSES

ENGLISH I — REGULAR* AND HONORS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9	None

In English I, students will develop a common understanding of key literary elements and forms, as well as a common vocabulary for discussing them. In alignment with Common Core Standards, significant concepts will be targeted with the reading and thorough analysis of each individual text. The student is introduced to the technique of interpreting literature with special emphasis on reading strategies and skills, such as inference and main idea. In-depth study of recurrent themes will also be an integral part of the course. Students will be exposed to independent reading expectations and writing requirements. An accelerated sequential writing program is also included with emphasis on well-constructed multi-paragraph themes.

*English I Regular is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

ENGLISH II — REGULAR* AND HONORS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10	English I

The sophomore curriculum allows students to experience a variety of texts from several cultures and time periods. Each text provides a different cultural and literary experience. Students will gain a greater understanding of the historical framework of each piece. The literature and supplementary materials will provide each student with a multicultural perspective on worldly issues. In alignment with Common Core Standards, this course possesses a rigorous writing and reading focus while building speaking and listening skills. The course requires students to actively work with their peers while defining themselves as readers and writers.

*English II Regular is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

ENGLISH III — REGULAR*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	English II

The third year of English explores major themes that pervade American life, both past and present. By reading and viewing literature of every genre and other forms of cultural expression in the United States, students understand their literary and cultural traditions, interrogate their own roles in the world and become more effective critics and builders of American culture. We will investigate enduring questions that persist throughout American literature.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10, 11	English II Honors or teacher recommendation

This is a college-level course with a purpose to enable students to read complex texts with understanding and to write prose of sufficient richness and complexity to communicate effectively with mature readers. These skills will allow students to read critically and write effectively in different modes in the college classroom and beyond.

Students will become increasingly more aware of how language works through the study of nonfiction in all its varied forms — essays, biographies, visual texts, letters, speeches, journalism, etc. Students will analyze what the writers say along with how they say it.

The writing will be formal and informal; it will primarily be responses to your reading, both analyzing it and emulating it, as well as creating original arguments and supporting them through logical development and appropriate style. Students will learn how to synthesize research materials and use proper MLA style.

This course will also offer students the opportunity to read American fiction and drama such as Fitzgerald, Salinger and Miller. ACT test prep will also be incorporated into the class.

Additionally, an important goal of this course is to help to prepare for the AP English Language and Composition exam given in May. The course will teach students the expectations of the AP examiners and will provide many opportunities for practicing writing and reading in the exam format. All students enrolled in Advanced Placement English Language and Composition are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

AMERICAN STUDIES — ENGLISH

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	English I, English II

American Studies is a two-credit class that consists of a one-credit English course (described here) and a one-credit history course (described in Social Studies Courses). The class combines the English III curriculum with the U.S. History curriculum. Students are team-taught over two consecutive periods by an English teacher and a social studies teacher with the idea of blending topics and reinforcing writing and reading skills that overlap in both classes. Topics emphasize the development of American culture, including political, economic and social history as well as American literature.

SENIOR SEMINAR*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	12	English III

This course explores the universal theme of identity through various pieces of literature (nonfiction and fiction). In the first semester, students will reflect on their individual academic developments and explore plans for their post-secondary lives. Emphasis will be placed on real-world research and writing skills (college/career searches, college applications, personal statements, cover letters, and resume writing). In the second semester, students will be asked to critically examine how people build their identities and how they function in the world at large. Through the analysis of literature, they will apply a critical lens to contemporary problems. Skill development will include speaking for a variety of purposes and analyzing literature.

This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	AP English Language and Composition or teacher recommendation

This college-level dual-credit course is the equivalent of the first year of college rhetoric. It is based on the idea that many high school students can successfully complete college English while still in high school. This course will prepare the student to take and pass the Advanced Placement test given in May; successful performance on this test will earn the student college credit.

This course includes extensive training in all modes of discourse, including exposition, narration, argumentation and literary analysis. In addition, the course includes extensive reading and analysis of demanding and challenging literary works such as "Frankenstein," "Death of a Salesman" and "Hamlet."

The underlying approach to the study of literature is textual rather than historical. The selections reflect a concern for depth rather than breadth. The student completing this course can expect to be a fluent, capable writer and a perceptive, critical reader. All students enrolled in AP English Literature and Composition are required to take the AP exam in May.

TRANSITIONAL ENGLISH

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	12	English III with a C or above

This course will focus on writing and reading as related skills by practicing reading comprehension and essay writing in the context of community, housing and equity. Students will develop critical thinking skills and the ability to write clear, focused, well-developed, organized essays using fiction and nonfiction sources, which discuss experiences focused on, for example, treatment of mental health, prisons and criminal justice, digital privacy and social justice.

COLLEGE COMPOSITION (DUAL CREDIT)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	12	English I, II, III and a 3.0 GPA

This honors course emphasizes logical, coherent writing skills for competency in any school or professional writing situation. Students will develop critical thinking skills and the ability to write clear, focused, developed, organized paragraphs and essays about both fiction and nonfiction sources. Dual credit (high school and college credit) may be available.

INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC SPEAKING

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

Introduction to Public Speaking is designed to provide experience and training in public speaking so that students are equipped with the skills essential for success in the business and academic worlds of today and tomorrow. Students present various formats of speeches and are responsible for constructive feedback of their peers' speeches.

ADVANCED PUBLIC SPEAKING (HONORS)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	Introduction to Public Speaking

Advanced Public Speaking has the student expand upon the speaking and listening skills learned in Introduction to Public Speaking. Students learn to tailor a message to suit a particular audience, enhance the message through technology, understand logic and reasoning, develop listening skills, identify propaganda techniques, and understand the physical producers of voice to control and vary tone, volume, pitch and rate. Students participate in workshop-oriented groups to develop the various skills listed above.

INTRODUCTION TO CREATIVE WRITING

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

Creative Writing has the student look at various fiction pieces, in addition to writing their own creative products. The formats the student will read and write will include poetry and short stories.

ADVANCED CREATIVE WRITING (HONORS)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	Introduction to Creative Writing

This course will expand on the writing techniques and strategies explored in the Introduction to Creative Writing course. This course will rely heavily on the workshop model of revision and discussion of the creative texts that students write, which is an adapted version of the workshop model used in creative writing graduate school programs around the country. Students will produce a large volume of creative work and will critically read and provide thoughtful feedback on their peers' writing in various genres. Students will ultimately choose one genre to focus on for a longer, more polished product. Students will defend their creative writing product by writing an introduction to their own work and writing critically about their influences and techniques.

INTRODUCTION TO THEATER STUDIES

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

Intro to Theater Studies is designed to give the student an appreciation of the world of theater and an opportunity to discover the artist we each hold within. In this course, students will study the wide range of knowledge demanded by theater and develop personally as they apply their newfound knowledge in classroom activities. This course enriches student's awareness, skills and self appreciation, enabling them to build a foundation for future arts development. Intro to Theater Studies provides for diverse learning styles and capabilities and allows students to experience the joy that comes from artistic communication.

ADVANCED THEATER STUDIES (HONORS)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	Introduction to Theater Studies

Advanced Theater Studies will further develop skills and knowledge acquired in Introduction to Theater Studies. This intensive course focuses on character development, emotional and sensory recall, movement, articulation, diction and voice. Script selection and reading will be a major topic in this course.

INTRODUCTION TO JOURNALISM

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

The construct of this course will focus on the study of rhetoric in many different forms. Students will read a wide range of prose nonfiction and prose fiction in order to explore how reputable authors use linguistic patterns to persuade, inform, entertain and explore. The class is designed entirely around a project-based learning scenario in which students will create an original, authentic product that will be shared with the entire school district. The Tiger newspaper will be a student-led publication created and distributed using a wide range of technological resources. Much like a real-world working scenario, students will be asked to conduct research to develop their ideas, revise their products and adhere to deadlines.

ADVANCED JOURNALISM (HONORS)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10, 11, 12	Introduction to Journalism

This composition course will further develop skills and knowledge acquired in Introduction to Journalism and is designed to lead students to a critical understanding of the media that surround us. The course focuses on the analysis of three major media industries — advertising, news and entertainment — and the print and nonprint messages created by these industries. Students will be required to write weekly response papers, read college-level texts, view a variety of forms of media, participate in class discussions and complete analytical projects.

FILM AND MEDIA STUDIES

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	English I

Students explore film and media by analyzing these genres and interpreting the narrative and artistic decisions of writers and directors to better understand the art of providing information and storytelling and its purposes. Students gain a more sophisticated understanding of society and its cultural products by considering individual creativity and collaborative fabrication, culture and mass culture, and the verbal and the visual.

FANTASY & SCI FI

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	English I & II

This course will focus on literature in the genres of science fiction and fantasy, such as "The Hobbit." Students will explore the lore, world-building, and story elements authors use to explore themes about humanity. Through this course, students will be primarily exposed to short stories and novels; however, they will also explore other modes within the genres. The coursework will include both analysis and creative forms of writing, as well as extended projects and discussions.

LATINX & CONTEMPORARY AUTHORS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	English I & II

Do you enjoy stories that reflect your everyday life? Stories that touch on the conflicts of bullying, relationships and the pulls on your identity? Specifically, do you find yourself sometimes living in two worlds — the private world of your friends and the public world of your parents and school? If these plotlines intrigue you, consider taking the Latinx Experience course, where the texts and conversations will be centered around contemporary Latino/a authors, poets, musicians and filmmakers and the layered complexities of living in the 21st century. One of the main novels used will be Erika Sanchez' "I’m Not Your Perfect Mexican Daughter." Additionally, the class will include memoir writing, class discussions and short presentations of family traditions, original work and historical events related to the themes of ethnicity, identity, and external and internal influences.

KINETIC WELLNESS COURSES

ADAPTIVE KINETIC WELLNESS I

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	Medical recommendations

This class will provide students with opportunities to develop an individual level of fitness, acquire knowledge of physical fitness concepts, and improve personal fitness while following modifications from their physician. Students will participate in a variety of activities ranging from individual and team sports to individual and group fitness.

KINETIC WELLNESS I

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9	None

This class will provide the opportunity for students to learn basic skills, rules and strategies. During this course, students are introduced to individual personal fitness (stretching, physical strength, cardiovascular conditioning) and team-based sports/activities, weight training, fitness activities and CPR training. In addition, students will complete the state requirements for fitness testing.

KINETIC WELLNESS II

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10	Kinetic Wellness I

This class will provide students with the opportunity to continue improving on skills, rules and strategies for individual and team-based sports, weight training and fitness activities. This course includes an emphasis on personal fitness (stretching, physical strength, cardiovascular conditioning) as well as continued development of team sports and activities. In addition, students will complete the state requirements for fitness testing.

GROUP FITNESS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one quarter)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This class offers students the opportunity to exercise in a variety of forms ranging from Tabata, high intensity interval training (HITT), circuit training, resistance/light weight training, yoga, Pilates, walking, floor and step aerobics. Students will be expected to take an active role in designing daily workouts. This is a base-level course for those who want to be introduced to a variety of exercise methods that tone and strengthen the entire body.

STRENGTH & CONDITIONING

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one quarter)	11, 12	KW I & II or Group Fitness

During this course, students will participate in basic to advanced strength training exercises that involve anaerobic and aerobic exercises. Throughout the course, students will learn to identify muscular anatomy and understand how to develop those muscles through various exercises. Participation will include, but not be limited to, cardio and weight training activities. The weight room is the main classroom setting where students will be provided with a weightlifting plan that is developed by the teacher.

INDIVIDUAL WELLNESS & FITNESS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	KW I & II or Group Fitness

This class is a classroom/lab combination that is designed for students to gain the necessary information on how to establish a healthier lifestyle and better understand the close relationship between physical health and fitness. We will be learning basic kitchen skills, and we will shop, plan out and practice making healthy and nutritious meals. Nutrition and exercise logs will be kept. Each student will participate in group health, fitness and nutritional goals and will then establish his/her own fitness and nutritional goals for the semester.

PERSONAL SAFETY & WELLNESS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	KW I & II or Group Fitness

This is a one-semester course that focuses on the theory and practice of self defense in response to physical attack. Students will learn the skills necessary to try and avoid violence and unsafe situations. Students completing this course will also learn various self-defense techniques to have as options if they need to defend themselves. Additional topics covered include healthy and unhealthy relationships, personal awareness and safety tactics, and real-world application.

KINETIC WELLNESS III

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11	KW I & II

JUNIOR LEADER — KINETIC WELLNESS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	Teacher recommendation

The purpose of this class is to develop students' leadership skills so as to enable them to assist our kinetic wellness staff in class activities. Through use of leadership skills they will develop self-confidence and positive self-esteem. They will acquire attitudes and habits of loyalty, self-control, cooperation and courtesy. Course outcomes include the following:

Students will learn to apply the rules and regulations of all kinetic wellness activities.
Students will learn how to officiate and apply proper techniques of officiating in game situations.
Students will learn proper exercise techniques, proper safety rules and will monitor student performance of these techniques.
Students will become proficient in performing and supporting peers in a variety of kinetic wellness activities.

This course requires an additional fee, which will be used for the purchase of a special T-shirt and for possible field trips.

COMPETITIVE TEAM SPORTS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one quarter)	11, 12	KW I & II

This course is for a student who has advanced knowledge and skills in a variety of team sports. Choosing this course means you have the desire to compete against others with a similar intensity level. Students are expected to have a firm grasp of the official rules for a variety of team sports. The focus will be on teamwork, sportsmanship, strategy and the improvement of knowledge and individual skills. This class will be run similarly to an athletic team. Units will involve skills, drills, scorekeeping and competitive play.

KINETIC WELLNESS IV

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	12	KW I, II & III

SENIOR LEADER — KINETIC WELLNESS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	12	Junior Leader KW and teacher recommendation

Skills learned and developed in the Junior Leader — Kinetic Wellness program will now be put into practice. Leadership skills will be used to assist our kinetic wellness staff in class activities. Leaders will lead exercises, officiate, assist with equipment as well as motivate and encourage students. Senior Leaders will be assigned to a teacher for the semester and will be given further instructions for duties and leadership roles. This is an honors course.

ADVANCED STRENGTH & CONDITIONING

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	B or above in Strength & Conditioning

This honors class is offered to students involved in athletics or who have completed strength training. The focus of this course will be to improve functional strength, speed, agility and explosive power that will translate into better sports performance. This course includes high-intensity weight, functional and plyometric training. The advanced strength training class is designed to provide each student with the knowledge needed to understand the importance of strength and fitness training.

HEALTH EDUCATION

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

Health Education is a course required by the State of Illinois. It is designed to teach students ways of maintaining good physical, mental and social health. The following topics are covered: mental health and mental illness; health careers; purchasing health products; the influence of the environment on health; prevention and control of diseases; physical fitness; tobacco, alcohol, drugs; human sexuality; nutrition; AIDS education; single parent lifestyles; coping with death; and health and life insurance programs.

MATHEMATICS COURSES

ALGEBRA I*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

The content of Algebra 1 is organized around families of functions, with special emphasis on linear, exponential and quadratic functions. Students will learn to represent functions through verbal descriptions, equations, tables and graphs. There will be opportunities to participate in the exploration of mathematical concepts, cooperative learning activities and small group discussion.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

GEOMETRY*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10	Algebra I, CPM I/II/III

The content of Geometry includes geometric forms, shapes, patterns and relationships. Algebraic methods are used as they apply to geometric situations. The use of logical reasoning is stressed, which helps the students in real-life situations. There will be opportunities to participate in the exploration of mathematical concepts, cooperative learning activities and small group discussion.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

ALGEBRA II*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	Algebra I, CPM I/II or CPM I

The content of this course gives students a strong background in mathematical reasoning and problem solving that will be important in the future. The course emphasizes using functions, equations and graphs to model problem situations. There will be opportunities to participate in the exploration of mathematical concepts, cooperative learning activities and small group discussion.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

PRE-CALCULUS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	12	Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II or CPM I-IV

This is a college preparatory course designed to complete the student’s study of high school algebra and move into topics covered in a trigonometry and an introductory calculus course. This class is intended for those students entering college or taking an Advanced Placement math course. There will be opportunities to participate in the exploration of mathematical concepts, cooperative learning activities and small group discussion.

FINANCIAL MATH

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	Algebra I, Geometry

This course was designed for students who are following a technical pathway or career. Students will study number systems, number sense, geometry and basic algebra. This course is intended to transition students into a technical career or trade school.

TRANSITIONAL MATH

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	12	Algebra I, Geometry and C or better in Algebra II

This transitional course is for high school seniors who have passed Algebra II with a C or better and will prepare them for a general education college-level math course. The course will serve as a prerequisite for the following college-level courses: General Education Statistics, General Education Mathematics, Quantitative Literacy, Elementary Mathematical Modeling or a technical/occupational mathematics pathway.

Taking and passing this course means that you will not have to take the college-level entrance exam. You will be placed into a credit-bearing course.

Topics will include but not be limited to the following:

Numeracy — Operation sense, estimation, measurement, quantitative reasoning
Algebra — Operations on expressions and functions (must include at least one factoring technique in context), construction and solving of equations
Functions and modeling — Characteristics of functions including graphical analysis, modeling with geometry, modeling with linear and nonlinear functions (must include at least three types of nonlinear functions from the following list: polynomial, rational, radical, exponential, logarithmic)

CORE-PLUS MATHEMATICS I/II

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9	Teacher recommendation

This course will combine the topics covered in Core-Plus Math I and Core-Plus Math II. The first course in the Core-Plus series covers topics regarding patterns in data, patterns of change, linear models, graph models, patterns in space and visualization, exponential models and simulation models. The second course in the Core-Plus series covers topics regarding matrix models, patterns of location, shape and size, patterns of association, power models, network optimization, geometric form and its function, and patterns in chance.

CORE-PLUS MATHEMATICS II

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9	CPM I and teacher recommendation

The second course in the Core-Plus series covers topics regarding matrix models, patterns of location, shape and size, patterns of association, power models, network optimization, geometric form and its function, and patterns in chance.

CORE-PLUS MATHEMATICS III

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10	CPM I/II or CPM II and teacher recommendation

The third course in the Core-Plus series covers topics regarding multiple-variable models, modeling public opinion, symbol sense and algebraic reasoning, shapes and geometric reasoning (including proof), patterns in variation, families of functions and discrete models of change.

CORE-PLUS MATHEMATICS IV

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	CPM I-III and teacher recommendation

The fourth course in the Core-Plus series contains mathematical content that allows considerable flexibility in tailoring a course to best prepare students for various undergraduate programs. CPM IV is designed for students intending to pursue programs in the mathematical and physical sciences or engineering. The topics include rates of change, modeling motion, logarithmic functions and data models, polynomial and rational functions, functions and symbolic reasoning, and space geometry. Depending on time available, additional topics of study will be selected based on student performance and interests.

AP CALCULUS AB

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	CPM IV or Pre-Calculus

This course will meet all the College Board topic requirements for an AB Advanced Placement Calculus class. The equivalent of one semester of college calculus, the course begins with functions and graphs and proceeds through limits, continuity, derivatives and their applications, integrals and their applications, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. The use of the graphing calculator and computers as tools to assist in sound problem-solving techniques will be emphasized. The course will create the ideal environment for the integration of mathematics, science and technology. As a result of successfully completing the course, together with their performance on the AP exam, students may receive college credit and/or advanced placement in calculus at several colleges and universities. All students enrolled in AP Calculus AB are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

AP CALCULUS BC

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	CPM IV or Pre-Calculus

Following the College Board's suggested curriculum designed to parallel college-level calculus courses, AP Calculus BC courses provide students with an intuitive understanding of the concepts of calculus and experience with its methods and applications, and also require additional knowledge of the theoretical tools of calculus. These courses assume a thorough knowledge of elementary functions, and they cover all of the calculus topics in AP Calculus AB as well as the following topics: vector functions, parametric equations and polar coordinates; rigorous definitions of finite and nonexistent limits; derivatives of vector functions and parametrically defined functions; advanced techniques of integration and advanced applications of the definite integral; and sequences and series.

AP STATISTICS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	CPM IV or Pre-Calculus (can be concurrent)

This course will meet all the College Board topic requirements for an Advanced Placement Statistics class. It is the equivalent of one semester of college statistics. The course introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and drawing conclusions from data. Four broad conceptual themes are covered: (1) exploring data, (2) planning a study, (3) probability models and (4) statistical inference. As a result of successful completion of this course and performance on the AP exam, students may be able to receive college credit and/or advanced placement in statistics at numerous colleges and universities. All students enrolled in AP Statistics are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

MUSIC COURSES

CHORALE*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10	None

This course, intended for freshmen/sophomores who are in their first year of choir, combines the best of personal enjoyment while developing vocal skills and studying the fundamentals of musicianship. Special emphasis is put on the development of sight singing skills necessary for future placement into advanced choral groups. Chorale performs at four school concerts throughout the year. A commitment to singing and performing is important, and upon successful completion of Chorale, a student can then audition for Concert Choir and/or Swing Choir.

*Chorale students participate in the four major concerts of the year, and attendance at all concerts is required.

CONCERT CHOIR*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	One year of Chorale and/or director's approval

This course combines the best of personal enjoyment while developing vocal skills and studying the fundamentals of musicianship. Special emphasis is put on the development of sight singing skills necessary for future placement into advanced choral groups. Concert Choir performs at four school concerts throughout the year as well as commencement. This class is repeatable.

*Attendance at all four major concerts is required.

SWING CHOIR*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10, 11, 12	Director's approval

This course is designed for advanced students who perform a wide variety of choral literature, from classical to contemporary. Swing Choir also focuses on music reading, sight singing and more advanced music theory concepts. The Swing Choir performs at concerts, festivals and community events as well as at four school concerts per year and commencement. This class is repeatable.

*Attendance at the four major concerts, plus commencement, is required with occasional out-of-school performances throughout the school year.

AP MUSIC THEORY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10, 11, 12	None

The AP Music Theory course is designed for the mature musician who is interested in enhancing their music ability through a rigorous study of music theory. The class will enable the student to understand theoretical and historical significance of harmonic structure as it relates to Western music. During the course of the class, students will develop the necessary technical skills used in analysis of music both structurally and harmonically. In addition, students will devote a significant amount of time developing their aural capabilities, such as sight singing, interval and chord recognition, melodic dictation and harmonic dictation. Ultimately, the class will prepare students for the AP Music Theory AP examination given in the spring, as well as entrance examinations given by schools of music for entering freshmen music majors.

CONCERT/MARCHING BAND — WOODWINDS AND BRASS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	Concert Band or director's approval

Woodwind and brass students will work on total musicianship, developing performance skills and building further knowledge of fundamentals of music theory. Concert Band performs in three or four formal concerts throughout the year. Students will participate in activities of the Marching Tigers during Q1. All band students should be available for band camp rehearsals during the summer in preparation for the upcoming season's marching show. Band camp is held for one full week, usually the first week of August. Prerequisite: Passing grade in previous year's Concert Band class and/or approval of the instructor.

CONCERT/MARCHING BAND — PERCUSSION

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	Concert Band or director's approval

Percussion students will work on total musicianship, developing performance skills and building further knowledge of fundamentals of music theory. Concert Band performs in three or four formal concerts throughout the year. Students will participate in activities of the Marching Tigers during Q1. All band students should be available for band camp rehearsals during the summer in preparation for the upcoming season’s marching show. Band camp is held for one full week, usually the first week of August. Prerequisite: Passing grade in previous year’s Concert Band class and/or approval of the instructor.

JAZZ BAND

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	Director's approval

All interested students with band experience on an appropriate instrument (saxophone, trumpet, trombone, drum set, bass, guitar, piano) join Jazz Band to continue work on total musicianship, developing performance skills and building further knowledge of fundamentals of music theory and basic improvisation. Jazz Band members perform in three or four formal concerts throughout the year. Prerequisite: Passing grade in previous year's Jazz Band class and/or approval of instructor.

PIANO METHODS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This course is designed for students with little or no piano experience. Using the electronic piano lab (MIDI), the class will introduce students to music notation, basic music theory, keyboard technique and music terminology through the study of keyboard repertoire. Students repeating this course or students with theory and composition experiences will be able to experience more advanced musical topics.

GUITAR METHODS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This course is designed for students who are interested in learning how to play the guitar and/or to develop strong technical skills in guitar performance. This course will introduce the techniques and musicianship skills in order to perform classical, blues, jazz, rock and pop repertoire. Students will learn music reading skills, sight reading, chords, collaboration, practice skills, and expressive performance and listening skills. Steel-string electric guitars are provided and stay in the classroom.

MUSIC PRODUCTION

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

This course will explore the fundamentals of creating and organizing music with computers and teach students the ins and outs of using sound engineering hardware. This is a project-based class in which students will use different software applications to create and arrange music. Students will learn how to manipulate music by creating medley mixes, music re-arranging and exploring the digital world of music. Digital audio, MIDI and recorded audio will be used and incorporated to create music files. Students will learn basic concepts on making beats and music patterns to be used in music production. Keyboard skills are helpful but not necessary. Enrollment is open to all students, grades 9-12.

SCIENCE COURSES

BIOLOGY I*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9	None

Biology I is an introductory course in the life sciences. Basic concepts stressed include the scientific method, cell theory, genetics, ecology, evolution and classification. Lab work is a part of the course. Students will work in groups as well as individually and will have the opportunity to use the available technology.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

BIOLOGY I HONORS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9	Teacher recommendation

Biology I Honors is an introductory course in the life sciences. The basic concepts stressed, as well as the use of available technology and group/individual learning, are similar to that of Biology I. The Biology I Honors curriculum is designed to challenge the science student who is highly motivated and academically mature enough to handle a teaching method that incorporates problem solving, analysis and inquiry.

CHEMISTRY I*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10	Biology I

Chemistry is the science that deals with the properties and structure of matter. It is based on the premise that the properties of matter are a consequence of its structure. As one of the exact sciences, it requires mathematical skills involving proportions. This course is recommended for all students interested in college programs in the teaching of science, engineering, medicine, pharmacy, nursing and associated health careers. Basic principles and laboratory activities stress understanding concepts above rote memory. Solving problems on the basis of general principles rather than one-type formulas will be expected. Students will be introduced to the measurement and manipulation of real numbers, significant digits and an understanding of precision and accuracy. Topics covered include heat, chemical formulas, atomic structure, chemical bonding, chemical reactions and nomenclature, stoichiometry, gas pressure, phase changes and gas laws. Lab experiences in this class include performing flame tests, finding melting points, reacting metals with acid and using freezing-point depression to make ice cream.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

CHEMISTRY I HONORS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10	Biology I Honors or teacher recommendation

Chemistry I Honors is an accelerated course introducing the science of chemical properties and structure of matter. The basic concepts stressed, as well as use of technology and group/individual learning, are similar to that of Biology I Honors. This course is designed to challenge the science student who is highly motivated and academically mature enough to handle a teaching method that incorporates problem solving, analysis and inquiry.

PHYSICS I*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	Biology I, Chemistry I & Algebra I

This course is a conceptual look into classical mechanics (how and why things move), electricity, magnetism, buoyancy and wave properties. This course does not concentrate on the mathematics of physics as much as the explanations for why an event took place. Equations are looked at as guides to thinking about the physical world around us. The class includes experiments and demonstrations, which further the course by engaging students in scientific observation of the physical world. Our goal is to increase the student's scientific literacy while instilling a genuine wonder about the world we live in.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

AP PHYSICS 1

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	Honors Chemistry or teacher recommendation

AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based physics course equivalent to the first semester of an introductory, algebra-based physics college course. Because this is a yearlong course, students have time to foster deeper conceptual understanding through student-centered, inquiry-based instruction. Students have time to master foundational physics principles while engaging in science practices to earn credit or placement in college. Course topics include Newtonian mechanics (including rotational dynamics and angular momentum); work, energy and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introduction to electric circuits. All students enrolled in AP Physics 1 are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10, 11, 12	Biology I & Chemistry I (can be concurrent)

Environmental Science is an introductory lab course for students who wish to study the natural sciences in an interdisciplinary context that includes consideration of how humans have influenced various systems around us. This offering has a widespread focus on many aspects of biology, earth and atmospheric sciences, fundamental principles of chemistry and physics, human population dynamics, and an appreciation for the Earth and its natural resources.

INTRO TO HEALTHCARE CAREERS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	Biology 1

This course will expose students to the variety of opportunities available within the healthcare industry, such as nursing, therapy, vision and dental care, administrative services and lab technology. The main purpose of the course is to assist students in further developing their interest into a tentative career choice. The content will provide in-depth information into health occupation careers and trends, occupational and educational opportunities, and educational, physical, emotional and attitudinal requirements.

SPORTS MEDICINE AND MANAGEMENT

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	Biology I & Chemistry (with a B)

The Sports Medicine and Management course combines student interests in physical activity and science. Designed for students interested in athletic training, physical therapy, nursing, exercise physiology, EMT/paramedic and other allied medical fields, this course introduces students to the basic principles and techniques for the prevention, recognition, treatment and rehabilitation of common injuries and illnesses related to physically active people. This lab-based course includes taping and bandaging, proper use of protective padding, treatment modalities, medical terminology, budgeting, ordering supplies, as well as general operation of an athletic training-room facility. More advanced topics include injury assessment, phases of healing, and the use of exercise and equipment to help recondition injured athletes.

AP CHEMISTRY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	12	Chemistry 1 Honors, Physics & teacher recommendation

The AP Chemistry course provides students with a college-level foundation to support future advanced course work in chemistry. Students cultivate their understanding of chemistry through inquiry-based learning as they explore topics such as atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics and equilibrium. Labs and demonstrations will help students develop explanations and predictions of natural phenomena. Students who enroll in this course should have a C or better in Chemistry I Honors and be proficient in algebra. All AP Chemistry students are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

AP PHYSICS 2

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	12	AP Physics 1 or teacher recommendation

AP Physics 2 is a continuation of AP Physics 1. Also algebra-based, it is a physics course equivalent to the second semester of an algebra-based physics college course. Because this is a yearlong course, students will again have time to foster deeper conceptual understanding through student-centered, inquiry-based instruction. Students have time to master foundational physics principles while engaging in science practices to earn credit or placement in college. Course topics include principles of fluids, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, optics and topics in modern physics. All AP Physics 2 students are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

AP BIOLOGY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11 (with Physics enrollment), 12	A in Biology I or Honors Biology

AP Biology provides a college-level biology experience for students interested in biological research and/or health-related fields. Students are expected to build on their knowledge from previous science coursework through inquiry-based investigations and statistical analysis. Major topics include cell communication, cellular energetics, genetics and evolutionary biology. All students are expected to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

HONORS ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	B or better in both Biology I & Chemistry I

Anatomy & Physiology is an honors course designed to help students prepare for higher education, to further their studies in an area of biological interest or to enter a health-related profession. The course will also benefit those students interested in liberal arts, physical education and pre-chiropractic programs. Course material presents information about the body's structures and its functions. It attempts to discover answers to such questions as: What enables people to move? How is it possible for them to talk? How can they see the expanse of the food they eat? How do individuals derive from food the energy they need for exercise and other types of activities? All these and other human activities make up life; Anatomy & Physiology attempts to explain them. Anatomy & Physiology will provide a basic understanding and working knowledge of the human body. Extensive laboratory work will be an integral part of this course.

SOCIAL STUDIES COURSES

WORLD HISTORY*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9	None

World History is a survey of the most important events, ideas, beliefs, customs and institutions from earliest times to the present. Attention is focused on the growth of freedom and justice in government, but considerable study is given to geography, religion, science, business, fine arts, language, literature, education and family life. The important men and women of every age and nation are studied to see how individuals both shape and are shaped by their society. World History is an important background for an understanding of world affairs and world literature, as well as essential background for understanding United States history.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	Teacher recommendation

Advanced Placement Human Geography is a college-level course designed to introduce students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use and alteration of the earth's surfaces. Students also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their science and practice. Specific topics of the course include analysis of maps and spatial data, how political regulations, economics, values and tastes create particular cultural landscapes, how regions came into being and what they reveal about the changing character of the world we live, and how events and processes operating in one place can influence those in other places. All students enrolled in AP Human Geography are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

AP WORLD HISTORY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10	Teacher recommendation

This course provides a broader and more in-depth analysis of the content studied in World History. There is also considerable in-depth study and reading outside the required textbook. Students may also be offered opportunities for field trips as part of their enrichment in the social sciences. All AP World History students must take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

UNITED STATES HISTORY*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	None

The principal aim of this course is to provide students with the background, knowledge and pride in their American heritage that will prepare and motivate them to discharge their duties and preserve their rights as citizens. The course includes a study of the contributions of various ethnic groups to the growth and development of this state and nation. The course is organized chronologically around the major forces, events and personalities of our history from America's beginnings in Europe to the present. Special attention is focused on the political and economic struggles that led to the Declaration of Independence, our Constitution with its Bill of Rights, the growth of democracy, the settling of the West, the Civil War, the growth of industries, corporations, labor unions, commercialized farms, the rise of cities, social problems and our emergence into world leadership.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

AMERICAN STUDIES — HISTORY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	English I, English II

American Studies is a two-credit class that consists of a one-credit history course (described here) and a one-credit English course (described in English Courses & Faculty). The class combines the English III curriculum with the United States History curriculum. Students are team-taught over two consecutive periods by an English teacher and a social studies teacher with the idea of blending topics and reinforcing writing and reading skills that overlap in both classes. Topics addressed in the course emphasize the development of American culture, including political, economic and social history as well as American literature. This is a 2.0 credit class, one credit for English and one credit for History.

AP UNITED STATES HISTORY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11	Teacher recommendation

AP U.S. GOVERNMENT & POLITICS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	None

AP United States Government and Politics introduces students to key political ideas, institutions, policies, interactions, roles and behaviors that characterize the political culture of the United States. The course examines politically significant concepts and themes, through which students learn to apply disciplinary reasoning, assess causes and consequences of political events, and interpret data to develop evidence-based arguments. Students will also be required to take and pass the Constitution Test during the course. This course fulfills the civics requirement. All AP U.S. Government and Politics students must take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

AP COMPARATIVE GOVERNMENT

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	11, 12	None

Following the College Board’s suggested curriculum designed to parallel college-level comparative government and politics courses, this class offers students an understanding of the world’s diverse political structures and practices. The course encompasses the study of both specific countries and general concepts used to interpret the key political relationships found in virtually all national policies. Course content generally includes sources of public authority and political power, the relationship between states and society, the relationships between the political and institutional frameworks of citizens and states, political change, and comparative methods. All students enrolled in AP Comparative Government are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

INTRODUCTION TO PSYCHOLOGY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	None

Formerly known as Mind and Media, this course introduces students to the study of individual human behavior. Course content typically includes (but is not limited to) an overview of the field of psychology, topics in human growth and development, personality and behavior, and abnormal psychology.

AP PSYCHOLOGY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	Intro to Psychology

Following the College Board's suggested curriculum designed to parallel a college-level psychology course, AP Psychology introduces students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. The course exposes students to each major subfield within psychology and enables students to examine the methods that psychologists use in their science and practice. All students enrolled in AP Psychology are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

INTRODUCTION TO SOCIOLOGY

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	None

As a combination of the former courses Contemporary Problems in American Society and American Culture Since WWII, this class will push students to examine the most pressing issues facing society today, with special emphasis given to challenges facing teens and young adults.

CRIMINAL JUSTICE

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
0.5 (one semester)	10, 11, 12	None

This course will examine the workings of the U.S. criminal and civil justice systems, including providing an understanding of civil and criminal law and the legal process, the structure and procedures of courts, and the role of various legal or judicial agencies. Course content will also include contemporary problems in the criminal justice system.

SENIOR U.S. GOVERNMENT*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (one semester)	12	None

This course examines the multiple components of the United States government. Units include foundations of American government and a detailed look into the legislative, executive and judicial branches. Political parties, interest groups, civil rights, elections and voting will also be covered. Students will learn about the State of Illinois and local governments, with an emphasis on civic engagement and political participation.

*This course is offered using a co-taught model for students needing extra support.

WORLD LANGUAGE COURSES

SPANISH I

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

During the first year, emphasis is placed on developing, listening and speaking skills. These skills are developed by conversations and daily oral and written work. In addition to speaking and understanding the language on an elementary level, the students who successfully complete the course will also be able to compose simple paragraphs employing present and preterite tenses and read basic selections with comparative ease. Throughout the year various aspects of both Mexican and Spanish culture are also discussed.

SPANISH II*

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	Spanish I

During the second year, greater emphasis will be placed on reading and writing skills. Emphasis will also be placed on increasing the pupil's ability to express himself accurately in both the present and past tenses. Structure and syntax will be studied in greater depth, so that these aspects of language can be used effectively and correctly in oral and written work.

*Students who have taken Spanish I during grades 7 and 8 may earn one full high school credit in World Language if they earn credit in Spanish II during their first year at EPHS.

SPANISH III (HONORS)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10, 11, 12	Spanish II

At the third-year level, appropriate selections of standard literary works are read. Together with short stories, authentic articles and various culture studies, students will form the basis for improvement in reading, writing, listening and speaking as they expand their knowledge of the Spanish vocabulary. Written composition work will include story summaries, recounting of a personal experience and other suitable topics. A continual study of vocabulary, grammar and syntax will make the students better able to speak and write correctly. Mexican, Peruvian and Dominican cultures will be emphasized via written and audiovisual materials.

HERITAGE SPANISH (HONORS)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	Placement exam

This course would provide our heritage speaker population the chance to grow their writing and reading skills. It would also help expand their vocabulary. The goal of this class is to help students increase their literacy in Spanish in order to successfully gain the seal of biliteracy.

SPANISH IV (HONORS)

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	Spanish III

Students in the fourth year will improve their skills in written and oral Spanish through various projects and presentations during the year. Such projects may include newsletters, relief maps, themes/essays, speeches and research projects. There will be extensive review of grammar, syntax and vocabulary. Honors credit may be earned.

AP SPANISH LANGUAGE AND CULTURE

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	12	Spanish IV or Heritage Spanish

Students in the Advanced Placement Spanish course will cover material equivalent to a third-year college course in advanced Spanish composition and conversation. This course will emphasize the use of Spanish for active communication. It will encompass oral skills, reading comprehension, grammar and composition. Extensive training in the organization and writing of compositions and the expression of ideas orally will be an integral part of the course. This class will allow students to continue to build proficiency through a variety of interactive and non-interactive activities such as compositions, essays, oral presentations, skits, and in-depth studies of Spanish and Latin American literature, history and geography. All students enrolled in Advanced Placement Spanish are required to take the Advanced Placement exam in May.

ITALIAN I

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	9, 10, 11, 12	None

The student is introduced to the basics of listening, understanding, speaking and reading in the Italian language. The student builds vocabulary, practices pronunciation, studies grammar, reads simple passages and writes original sentences. Italian culture is introduced and studied through lecture, readings, film and music.

ITALIAN II

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10, 11, 12	Italian I

The student continues the study of grammar, understands more complex structures, converses more freely in Italian, using a wider vocabulary, composes short, grammatically correct paragraphs and develops more insights into the Italian culture.

ITALIAN III HONORS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	10, 11, 12	Italian II

The student learns to communicate effectively in Italian. Emphasis will be placed on vocabulary and complex verbal structures. Through appropriate literary works and films, the student will improve in comprehension and be able to interpret longer narrations. The student will be able to write story summaries, dialogues and compositions on a variety of subjects. The student will immerse himself/herself in Italian culture, art, opera and cuisine.

ITALIAN IV HONORS

CREDIT	GRADE LEVEL	PREREQUISITE
1.0 (two semesters)	11, 12	Italian III

In this fourth level of Italian class, students will continue to build vocabulary, learn new grammatical skills and will take an in-depth look at regions and cultural topics. Some of the vocabulary will focus on giving directions, ecology and the environment, songs and the world of music, television and immigration. Grammatical topics include the imperative and present conditional verb tenses, comparatives and superlatives, relative and indefinite pronouns, the present and past subjunctive tenses and the imperfect and pluperfect subjunctive. Students will learn how to incorporate these new skills into their speech and writing in Italian.

2022-23 Courses | Online Catalog

INTRO TO ART

PHOTOGRAPHY

DRAWING

PAINTING

CERAMICS AND SCULPTURE

ADVANCED CERAMICS AND SCULPTURE (HONORS)

ADVANCED DRAWING AND PAINTING (HONORS)

AP STUDIO ART: DRAWING

AP STUDIO ART: 2D DESIGN

AP STUDIO ART: 3D DESIGN

BUSINESS PRINCIPLES I

BUSINESS PRINCIPLES II

CONSUMER EDUCATION*

INFORMATION PROCESSING I

INFORMATION PROCESSING II

DIGITAL LITERACY I*

DIGITAL LITERACY II*

ACCOUNTING I/II

FINANCIAL INVESTMENTS

MARKETING I*

MARKETING II — MERCHANDISING AND SALES*

COMPUTER GRAPHICS I

COMPUTER GRAPHICS II

AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES

DIGITAL ANIMATION

WEBSITE DESIGN

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING I

COMPUTER PROGRAMMING II

VIRTUAL ENTERPRISE INTERNATIONAL I & II*

BUSINESS LAW

DRIVER EDUCATION — CLASSROOM

DRIVER EDUCATION — BEHIND THE WHEEL

ENGLISH I — REGULAR* AND HONORS

ENGLISH II — REGULAR* AND HONORS

ENGLISH III — REGULAR*

AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION

AMERICAN STUDIES — ENGLISH

SENIOR SEMINAR*

AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION

TRANSITIONAL ENGLISH

COLLEGE COMPOSITION (DUAL CREDIT)

INTRODUCTION TO PUBLIC SPEAKING

ADVANCED PUBLIC SPEAKING (HONORS)

INTRODUCTION TO CREATIVE WRITING

ADVANCED CREATIVE WRITING (HONORS)

INTRODUCTION TO THEATER STUDIES

ADVANCED THEATER STUDIES (HONORS)

INTRODUCTION TO JOURNALISM

ADVANCED JOURNALISM (HONORS)

FILM AND MEDIA STUDIES

FANTASY & SCI FI

LATINX & CONTEMPORARY AUTHORS

ADAPTIVE KINETIC WELLNESS I

KINETIC WELLNESS I

KINETIC WELLNESS II

GROUP FITNESS

STRENGTH & CONDITIONING

INDIVIDUAL WELLNESS & FITNESS

PERSONAL SAFETY & WELLNESS

KINETIC WELLNESS III

JUNIOR LEADER — KINETIC WELLNESS

COMPETITIVE TEAM SPORTS

KINETIC WELLNESS IV

SENIOR LEADER — KINETIC WELLNESS

ADVANCED STRENGTH & CONDITIONING

HEALTH EDUCATION

ALGEBRA I*

GEOMETRY*

ALGEBRA II*

PRE-CALCULUS

FINANCIAL MATH

TRANSITIONAL MATH

CORE-PLUS MATHEMATICS I/II

CORE-PLUS MATHEMATICS II

CORE-PLUS MATHEMATICS III

CORE-PLUS MATHEMATICS IV

AP CALCULUS AB

AP CALCULUS BC

AP STATISTICS