English Course Descriptions

English I

This course includes engaging and interactive instruction about reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language, with a focus on exploring a wide variety of genres and their elements. Students learn how to carefully read, interpret, and analyze literature and nonfiction works of cultural or historical significance appropriate to grade 9. Throughout the course, students practice narrative, informational, and argument writing. Students also develop and deliver presentations and participate in discussions with their peers.

Honors English I

This course encompasses the same standards as English I but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

English II

This course includes engaging and interactive instruction about reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language, with a focus on exploring a wide variety of genres and their elements. Students build on previous skills including how to carefully read, interpret, and analyze literature and nonfiction works of cultural or historical significance appropriate to grade 10. Throughout the course, students practice informational and argument writing. Students also develop and deliver presentations and participate in discussions with their peers.

Honors English II

This course encompasses the same standards as English II but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

English III

This course includes engaging and interactive instruction about reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language, with a focus on exploring a wide variety of genres and their elements. Students build on previous skills including how to carefully read, interpret, and analyze literature and nonfiction works of cultural or historical significance appropriate to grade 11. Throughout the course, students practice informational and argument writing. Students also develop and deliver presentations and participate in discussions with their peers.

Dual Credit English III (ENG 111)

ENG 111 is a course in writing as a recursive process involving the discovery and communication of meaning. Students research, analyze, write, revise and edit texts with the aim of communicating with various audiences of readers. Students must successfully complete ENG 111 with a "C" or better to qualify to take ENG 112 and ENG 210 next year.

English IV

This course includes engaging and interactive instruction about reading, writing, speaking and listening, and language, with a focus on exploring a wide variety of genres and their elements. Students build on previous skills including how to carefully read, interpret, and analyze literature and nonfiction works of cultural or historical significance appropriate to grade 12. Throughout the course, students practice informational and argument writing. Students also develop and deliver presentations and participate in discussions with their peers. Special focus on preparing students to effectively communicate in daily life after high school.

Dual Credit English IV (ENG 112 and ENG 210)

ENG 112 (Fall Semester) is a course in argumentative and persuasive writing and academic discourse. Students practice rhetorical strategies and scholarly methods as they perform assigned research and writing projects. Successful completion of ENG 111 is a prerequisite.

ENG 210 (Spring Semester) is a course in reading, interpreting, evaluating, and writing about literature. The purpose of the course is to enable students to cultivate a critical appreciation of literature, its aesthetic qualities, and its relevance to the real-life experiences and concerns of individuals and cultures”. Successful completion of ENG 111 and ENG 112 with a “C” or better is a prerequisite.

Math Course Descriptions

Applied Mathematics I (offered in place of Algebra I beginning 23-24 school year)

This integrated approach to high school mathematics combines number, algebra, geometry, probability and statistics into one course and is no less rigorous than a traditional pathway: Algebra 1 and Geometry. Typically Integrated/Applied Mathematics 1 has more geometric concepts than a traditional Algebra 1 course.

Honors Applied Mathematics I (offered in place of Honors Algebra I beginning 23-24 school year)

This course encompasses the same standards as Applied Mathematics I but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

Algebra I (no longer offered as of 23-24 school year)

This course is designed to emphasize the study of multiple representations of linear and non-linear functions. It includes mathematical concepts for working with rational numbers, various expressions, analyzing and solving linear equations & inequalities, data analysis, probability, statistics, and polynomials. Students will use hands-on materials and calculators when needed in solving problems where the algebra concepts are applied. Students who complete Algebra I should take Geometry next.

Honors Algebra I (no longer offered as of 23-24 school year)

This course encompasses the same standards as Algebra I but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

Applied Mathematics II (offered in place of Geometry beginning 24-25 school year)

This course is the second year of Applied Mathematics and includes number, algebra, geometry, probability and statistics and is no less rigorous than a traditional pathway: Algebra 1 and Geometry. Typically Applied II has a blend of geometric and algebraic concepts along with probability.

Honors Applied Mathematics II (offered in place of Honors Geometry beginning in 24-25 school year)

This course encompasses the same standards as Applied Mathematics II but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

Geometry (no longer offered as of 24-25 school year)

This course is designed to emphasize the study of the properties and applications of common geometric figures in two and three dimensions. It includes the study of transformations and right triangle trigonometry. Inductive and deductive thinking skills are used in problem solving situations, and applications to the real world are stressed. It also emphasizes writing proofs to solve (prove) properties of geometric figures. Students who complete Geometry should review the chart above to decide which course to take next.

Honors Geometry (no longer offered as of 24-25 school year)

This course encompasses the same standards as Geometry but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

CCR Math III

CCR (College and Career Readiness) Math is designed to help students gain additional skills in mathematics that will help them gain higher scores on important college-related tests (ACT and SAT) and future courses as well as career-related exams (KYOTE). The course serves as a short review of important Algebra I and Geometry concepts, introduces important Algebra II skills, and begins laying the foundation for students to progress into the college or career of their choice.

Business Math

This course focuses on mathematical functions using whole numbers, fractions, decimals, and percents that are required to function in today's business world as well as to handle personal finance. The ability to estimate and approximate answers in solving financial problems will be emphasized.

Advanced College Algebra DC

This college level course reviews selected topics in algebra and analytic geometry. Develops manipulative skills and concepts required for successful calculus study. Includes brief review of basic algebra, quadratic formula, systems of linear equations, logarithmic/exponential equations. **Students who wish to take this course for college credit must meet the necessary GPA requirements.**

Trigonometry DC

This is a college preparatory class. Students can expect for this course to be the equivalent of a college level course. Topics from Algebra will be refined and new topics such as horizontal asymptotes of rational functions, trigonometry, and analytic geometry will be discussed. Students will look at trigonometric functions and identities. Analytic geometry will be developed further. **Students who wish to take this course for college credit must meet the necessary GPA requirements.**

AP Calculus

This course covers topics ranging from an extensive review of pre-calculus to derivatives and their applications. This class also covers topics such as summations, the limit method of integration, and integration of various functions. Students should be prepared for extensive outside class assignments and extensive use of the graphing calculator.

Statistics DC

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing, and drawing conclusions from data.

Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes:

● Exploring Data: Describing patterns and departures from patterns.

● Sampling and Experimentation: Planning and conducting a study.

● Anticipating Patterns: Exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation.

● Statistical Inference: Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses.

**Students who wish to take this course for college credit must meet the necessary GPA requirements.**

Science Course Descriptions

Earth/Space Science

Students develop a conceptual understanding of Earth/space science, as outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science, through the use of science and engineering practices. They experience Earth/space concepts such as energy in the Earth system, geochemical cycles, formation and ongoing changes of the Earth system, and formation and ongoing changes of the universe. 

Honors Earth/Space Science

This course encompasses the same standards as Earth/Space Science but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

Biology I

Students develop a conceptual understanding of biological sciences, as outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science. They experience concepts such as the cellular organization; molecular basis of heredity; biological change; interdependence of organisms; matter, energy and organization in living systems; and behavior of organisms.

Honors Biology I

This course encompasses the same standards as Biology I but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

Chemistry I

This course serves as an introduction which integrates the basic concepts of chemistry and physics as outlined in the Kentucky Academic Standards for Science. Students learn how the physical and chemical properties of matter can be explained and predicted in terms of atomic and molecular structures and forces. They also learn how balanced and unbalanced forces influence the behavior of objects. Students will learn these core ideas within these topics through the use of the science and engineering practices and crosscutting concepts. The science and engineering practices are skills students will use as they investigate the natural world and develop solutions to problems

Honors Chemistry I

This course encompasses the same standards as Chemistry I but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

DC Chemistry I

A beginning course in general chemistry designed for students who plan to take additional chemistry courses. **Students wishing to gain college credit for this course will have to meet the minimum GPA requirements set forth by Murray State University**

AP Chemistry II (offering depends on interest and availability in schedule)

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 investigations, as they explore topics such as: atomic structure, intermolecular forces and bonding, chemical reactions, kinetics, thermodynamics, and equilibrium. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam.

AP Biology II

AP Biology is an introductory college-level biology course. Students cultivate their understanding of biology through inquiry-based investigations as they explore the following topics: evolution, cellular processes, energy and communication, genetics, information transfer, ecology, and interactions. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam.

AP Environmental Science (offering depends on interest and availability in schedule)

The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-semester, introductory college course in environmental science, through which students engage with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. The course requires that students identify and analyze natural and human-made environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. Environmental Science is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. College credit is earned with a qualifying score on an AP exam.

Anatomy/Physiology (offering depends on interest and availability in schedule)

This course focuses on the study of the human body, including nutrition concepts, digestive system, circulatory system, nervous system, and the reproductive system.

Forensics

This course is designed to familiarize students with the basic principles and uses of forensic science in the criminal justice system.  Forensic science is the study and application of science to the processes of law and involves the collection, examination, evaluation and interpretation of physical evidence.

Zoology (offering depends on interest and availability in schedule)

The course gives an introduction to zoology, with particular emphasis on the morphology and systematics of both vertebrates and invertebrates. In addition, the students should acquire basic knowledge in ethology, evolution, and human ecology (including an introduction to the biosphere and biodiversity).

Social Studies Course Descriptions

American Studies

American Studies is an introductory survey of the inquiry practices and disciplinary strands US and KY civics, economics, geography and history of social studies. It is designed to give the student exposure to the inquiry practices and the disciplinary strands of social studies.

Honors American Studies

This course encompasses the same standards as American Studies but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

AP Human Geography

This introductory college-level human geography course. Students cultivate their understanding of human geography through data and geographic analyses as they explore topics like patterns and spatial organization, human impacts and interactions with their environment, and spatial processes and societal changes.

World History

This course engages students in historical thinking focused on the Pre-Modern era to the present, from 1300 to the present. History is the study of past events, often including an explanation of their causes. Students need to understand their historical roots and those of others and how past events have shaped their world. In developing these insights, students must know what life was like in the past and how things change and develop over time. Reconstructing and interpreting historical events provides a needed perspective in addressing the past, the present and the future.

Honors World History

This course encompasses the same standards as World History but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

US History

This is a course designed for furthering your knowledge and appreciation of our nation's past, present, and future. A substantial amount of content will be covered in the upcoming weeks and months, accompanied with a variety of activities, materials, and student achievement. The course will develop an understanding of social, political, economical, cultural, and military experiences that have played a crucial role in shaping the history of our country.

Honors US History

This course encompasses the same standards as US History but does so on an advanced level with more focus on developing college-level analysis and skills.

DC US History

The first semester of this course explores the colonization, settlement, revolution, economic, social and political development, sectional conflict, Civil War and Reconstruction.

The second semester of this course explores immigration, westward movement, economic growth and problems; world power, the two World Wars, the Cold War, and national developments to the present.  **Students wishing to take this course for college credit must meet minimum GPA requirements set forth by Campbellsville University**

DC European History

The first semester of this course explores cultural, social, religious, economic, and political developments; contributions of European people through ancient, medieval, and early modern times. 

The second semester of this course explores commercial and industrial revolutions, colonial expansion, nationalism, international rivalries, two World Wars, the cold war, and world events to the present. **Students wishing to take this course for college credit must meet minimum GPA requirements set forth by Campbellsville University**

Psychology

Psychology is an introduction to the basic scientific theoretical principles of individual human behavior. Students will be exposed to various topics in the field of psychology research.

Psychology II

This course explores psychology as a science and the research methods common in psychological research covering some of the key concepts and findings in the study of abnormal psychology, sensation, consciousness, child psychology, motivation, emotion, memory and attitudes, and group processes. The course encourages students to explore classical concepts in psychology within the context of cutting edge research and contemporary issues within modern society. There is a particular focus on how psychology and concepts within the subject can inform controversial issues in everyday society.

Music Course Descriptions

Mixed Chorus

Students develop vocal skills in the context of a large choral ensemble as a means to study and perform a variety of styles. These courses are designed to develop students' vocal techniques and their ability to sing parts and include experiences in creating and responding to music. Courses are offered on multiple levels to accommodate proficiency.

Chorale 

Students build upon previously developed vocal skills in the context of a large choral ensemble as a means to study and perform a variety of styles. These courses are designed to develop students' vocal techniques and their ability to sing parts and include experiences in creating and responding to music. Courses are offered on multiple levels to accommodate proficiency.

Band

Students study and perform a variety of traditional styles such as traditional chamber music, and contemporary or popular styles, such as jazz and rock, while also cultivating students' technique on instruments appropriate to the style(s) performed -- brass, woodwind, string, percussion instruments, and/or electronic.

Piano Skills

Students explore the fundamentals of music and basic keyboard techniques such as scales, chords, melodic lines, and harmonic structure. This course may include more advanced keyboard techniques and teaches students the appropriate care, handling, and maintenance of musical instruments. Courses are offered on multiple levels to accommodate proficiency.

Advanced Music Theory (offering depends on interest and availability in schedule)

This course provides students with an understanding of the fundamentals of music and include one or more of the following topics: melody, harmony, composition, arrangement, analysis, aural development, and sight reading.

Art Course Descriptions

Visual Arts I

Students are introduced to the basic fundamentals of artistic expression. The course includes experiences in drawing, painting, two-and three-dimensional design, sculpture, and other art forms. The course emphasizes observations, interpretation of the visual environment, visual communication, imagination and symbolism, and an introduction to various visual arts techniques and media. The focus of the course is on application of the fundamental processes of artistic expression and application of the concepts and approaches in the symbolic aspects of art and design to two- and three-dimensional problems so that they demonstrate a range of abilities and versatility with technique, problem solving, and ideation. A study of historical and contemporary art and artists from a worldwide perspective, and instruction and practice in peer review through the critique process, presentation or their, responding to art and connecting their art to the world around them are included. 

Sculpture

Sculpture promotes creative expression through three-dimensional works. Students explore representational and abstract sculpture through subtractive (carving), additive (modeling), and assemblage techniques in one or more media. They produce representational and abstract sculptures that communicate personal ideas and messages through the application of the fundamentals of artistic expression while incorporating elements of art and principles of design. A study of historical and contemporary sculpture and sculptors from a worldwide perspective, and instruction and practice in the critique process are addressed.

Ceramics

This course engages students in learning experiences that encompasses the historical and cultural context of ceramics, critiquing their own work and the work of others, aesthetic inquiry, and creative production. They develop knowledge of ceramic techniques and processes with an emphasis on creative design and craftsmanship. Experience includes, but is not limited to, clay modeling, hand building, coil building, casting and throwing on the potter's wheel. Students develop a working knowledge of kiln firing and glazing techniques. Students balance experimentation and safety, freedom and responsibility while developing and creating artworks. 

Painting/Drawing

Students focus on the blend and relationships that occur between drawing and painting. Attention is given to two-dimensional work and utilizes one or more mediums, such as pen-and-ink, pencil, chalk, watercolor, tempera, oils, and acrylics. Students extend and refine knowledge in the creative process to visually communicate personal intent. Advanced students extend and refine knowledge in the creative process. They are encouraged to develop their own artistic styles. Students focus on making meaning by investigating and reflecting their awareness of their perceptions, knowledge, and experiences of life. The course may emphasize either drawing or painting or combine both.

Art Portfolio

Art Portfolio is designed to address a variety of factors and methods including evolving technologies when preparing and refining artwork for portfolio presentation and or when deciding if and how to preserve and protect art. Students will create, select, respond to, and present work that clearly reflects newly obtained technical skills, increasing conceptual thinking and is a reflection of their personal interests and may serve as an opportunity for students to expand their expertise in a particular form or style, to explore a topic in greater detail, or to develop more advanced skills. Individual critique and planned peer review will help students prepare for future endeavors. This course covers any identified Visual Arts discipline. 

Introduction to Creative Media Arts

An introduction to and survey of the creative and conceptual aspects of designing media arts experiences and products, including techniques, genres and styles from various and combined mediums and forms, including moving image, sound, interactive, spatial and/or interactive design. Typical course topics include: aesthetic meaning, appreciation and analysis; composing, capturing, processing and programming of media arts products, experiences and communications; their transmission, distribution and marketing; as well as contextual, cultural, and historical aspects and considerations. This course covers the conceptual, social and philosophical aspects of the variety, purposes and nature of media arts. 

Multimedia Art

The creative and conceptual aspects of designing and producing media arts experiences, products and services that combine imagery, text, sound, motion, interactivity and/or virtuality into a unified presentation. Typical course topics include: aesthetic meaning, appreciation and analysis; composition, development, processing and programming of combined physical, interactive and virtual experiences and environments; their presentation, transmission, distribution and marketing; as well as contextual, cultural, and historical aspects and considerations.

Visual Art Web Design

The creative and conceptual aspects of designing and producing interactive, multimedia web sites and experiences, products and services, including information architecture, graphic and interface design and web-based multimedia. Typical course topics include: aesthetic meaning, appreciation and analysis; development, construction, and programming of virtual, multimedia and interactive experiences; their applications in internet communications; as well as contextual, cultural and historical aspects and considerations.

Cultural/Performing Arts Course Descriptions

Drama/Theatre

This course is designed to develop a knowledge of theatrical concepts and techniques that will enable students to create new theatre pieces (work-in-progress/complete), perform existing theatre works and respond to both studio exercises and performances. Introduction to Theatre covers multiple styles of dramatic literature and uses a variety of connections to historical and cultural contexts. Introduction to Theatre sets the stage for both a performance and a technical theatre emphasis and students engage on a basic level with skills and knowledge in and of: acting and improvisation, theatre design and technology, theatre history and appreciation, dramatic literature and critique, and theatre administration.

Film as Literature

The course aims to develop students as proficient interpreters of film texts. Through the study and analysis of film texts, students develop critical abilities and appreciation of artistic, cultural, historical and global perspectives in film. They examine concepts, theories, practices and ideas from multiple perspectives, challenging their own views to understand and value those of others. The course emphasizes the importance of an appreciation of the development of film across time and culture.

History of Rock n Roll

Students develop an understanding of Rock n Roll music and its importance in relation to the human experience. Learning experiences include guided listening, analysis, discussion and hands on experimentation including informal performance, improvisation, or composition focused on how various styles of music apply musical elements to create expressive or aesthetic impact.

History of Country Music

Students develop an understanding of Country music and its importance in relation to the human experience. Learning experiences include guided listening, analysis, discussion and hands on experimentation including informal performance, improvisation, or composition focused on how various styles of music apply musical elements to create expressive or aesthetic impact.

PE Course Descriptions

PE I

This course is designed to give students the opportunity to learn through a comprehensive sequentially planned Physical Education program in accordance with the Kentucky Academic Standards for High School (9th-12th Grade) Physical Education. The emphasis of this course is to provide students with the skills, knowledge, attitude and confidence to be active for a lifetime. Students will have the opportunity to develop skills in fitness/conditioning activities, individual/team sports and recreational activities. Students will learn how lifetime physical activity contributes to optimal physical, mental, emotional and social health.

Co-Ed Team Sports

This course is designed to be an extension of Physical Education I to provide students with the advanced skills, knowledge, attitude and confidence to be active for a lifetime. Focus is on team sports and cooperation. Course has future sections (2, 3, and 4) to allow taking multiple times.

Fitness/Wellness

This course is designed to be an extension of Physical Education I to provide students with the advanced skills, knowledge, attitude and confidence to be active for a lifetime. Focus is on nutrition and exercise regimens to increase personal health.

Strength Training

This course is designed to be a guided study for student athletes interested in building muscle, speed, and agility. Emphasis will be placed on proper training and nutrition regimens that help students attain their health and athletic goals. Teacher or Coach recommendation is required.

*For Army JROTC course descriptions, go to the JROTC Pathway section.

Health Course Description

Health

This course is designed to give students the opportunity to learn through a comprehensive sequentially planned Health Education program in accordance with the Kentucky Academic Standards for High School Health Education. The emphasis of this course is to teach students the ability to access, understand, appraise, apply and advocate for health information and services in order to maintain or enhance one's own health and the health of others.