North Laurel High School Curriculum Guide

DRIVER EDUCATION

Drivers Ed Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grades: 10-12 Prerequisite: Student must have driver’s permit

Traffic safety is a co ed course consisting of 30+ classroom hours and two to four hours behind the wheel instruction. It is a general course based on the admitted purpose of acquainting the student with certain information about driving that would be useful to the student in his driving experiences. It brings together, for beginning and experienced drivers alike, the latest ideals in task analysis, decision-making, and traffic safety for drivers. The primary purpose of this course is to provide the student with the knowledge and skills he/she will need to become a safe, efficient user of the highway transportation system as driver, passenger, and pedestrian. The student must also meet the requirements of KRS 159.051 (No Pass/No Drive Statute)

ENGLISH DEPARTMENT

English I Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade: 9 Prerequisite: None	With emphasis in maturation of critical thinking skills, English I students begin to analyze multi-cultural and multi-generational text. Through the analysis of varied text, students develop traits of collegiate and career ready individuals.  Students specifically read assorted samples of fiction, which include but are not limited to novels, short stories, plays, and poetry.  They will also evaluate nonfiction through an introductory study of editorials and speeches, with focusing instruction on rhetoric and language.  Not only will students critically read multiple and varied texts, but they will also compose written works for diverse purposes allowing them to communicate analytically, persuasively, and creatively.  Through their own reading and writing, as well as through explicit instruction students will also show their command of the conventions of language.  Whenever feasible, technology will also be utilized to provide real world applications of attained language and reading skills.
Pre AP English I Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Prerequisite: Middle school English teacher recommendation and exemplary performance on MAP/other diagnostic tests	The Pre-AP English I course utilizes “Laying the Foundation” activities with a significant emphasis on syntax and analysis of literature. The Pre-AP English I student will complete outside readings, write literary analyses, and think critically about texts at all levels. This course will progress at a faster pace than English I as it will prepare students to take Pre-AP English II.
English II Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade: 10 Prerequisite: English I	English II is a survey of fiction and non-fiction, with an emphasis on analytical writing.  Students read novels, short stories, plays, and poetry by authors from varied backgrounds, giving students both a literary and cultural foundation.  Non-fiction pieces include informational texts and persuasive writing such as editorials and speeches, with an emphasis on rhetoric and purpose. Writing instruction focuses on literary analysis, persuasive writing, personal writing, and creative writing.  Technology is utilized for student projects that focus on real world applications of language and reading skills, giving students the opportunity to connect literature of the past to themes of the present.  Students prepare for the PLAN test in the first semester, and continue to prepare for the ACT as the year progresses. The End of Course Assessment and On-Demand writing test are used to measure academic progress in reading and composition for English II.
Pre-AP English II Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade: 10 Prerequisite: English I and exemplary performance on MAP/other diagnostic tests	A skills-based course that emphasizes close reading and analytical writing.  Students will analyze both fiction and non-fiction pieces with a variety of novels, short stories, plays, and poetry by authors from varied backgrounds.  This course solidifies the foundation by building on skills students have already acquired and requires them to perform increasingly more sophisticated tasks in their reading, writing, and thinking.  Writing instruction will focus on literary analysis, persuasive writing, personal writing and creative writing for various audiences.  Students’ style and voice will mature and become more distinctive.  Students will prepare for the PLAN test in the first semester.  The End of Course Assessment and On-Demand writing tests will be used to measure academic progress.  Emphasis will focus on preparation for AP English and college readiness.
English III Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade: 11 Prerequisite: English II	English III continues to develop competencies in language and communication skills. Content includes instruction in oral presentation and written composition.  Instruction focuses heavily on study skills, college readiness, ACT and On-Demand writing preparation. With a research paper as a major requirement of the class, reference skills and research techniques are also emphasized.  Throughout the course, students examine the historical, cultural, and aesthetic significance of American Literature.  As in English I and II, mechanics and usage are taught within the context of the students' composition.  Continuing to practice the steps in the writing process, students write for a variety of purposes.
AP English III Credit: 1 Course Length: Year Prerequisite: English II and exemplary performance on PLAN test	The AP English III course follows the same curriculum as English III but will progress at a faster pace and includes activities that will prepare the student to take the Advanced Placement English Language examination offered by the College Board at the completion of the class. The focus is on non-fiction, and students are required to conduct in-depth analysis of materials read.  The writing for this class includes many analytical essays and an argumentative research-based paper. This will be a weighted credit.
English IV Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade : 12 Prerequisite: English III	English IV offers continued refinement of abilities in language arts skills. Content includes appropriate experiences in oral and written composition and the historical, cultural, and aesthetic significance of English and/or world literature.  Grammar and mechanics will be covered in context of literature and writing. Special attention to literary writing and personal writing will be given.
AP English IV Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grade: 12 Prerequisite: English III and exemplary performance on ACT	The Advanced Placement Literature and Writing course (AP English IV) is designed to immerse students into an English academic discourse community.  Students will critically read classical works of literature, evaluate author technique, and write collegiate essays using analysis and synthesis, conduct writing workshops, improve test-taking skills, and develop a literary and rhetorical vocabulary.  This class helps students broaden their worldviews by connecting to great authors of the past through meaningful reading, writing, and discussion.  All assessment is designed by the College Board, and students have the opportunity to obtain college credit by passing the AP English Literature exam, earning a three or above; however, some colleges will not accept a 3 score
21^st Century Communications Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grade: 9 Prerequisite: None	The 21^st Century Communications class is a combination of speech, creative writing, and arts and humanities.  Students will conduct interviews, informative, persuasive, and demonstrative speeches.  They will write and work shop poems, short stories, scripts, non-fiction, and flash fiction.  Modern literature (pop-fiction and young adult fiction) will be read to enhance communication skills and older text is woven in to supplement the arts and humanities. Technology is utilized to enhance speeches and text.  This will count as the humanities credit toward graduation.
Journalism Credit: ½ Course Length: Semester Grades: 9-12	Special Topics: newspaper study; newspaper production; news information gathering; proofreading; journalistic writing
Appalachian Literature Credit: ½ Course Length : Semester	Special Topics: focused on Appalachian Literature.
Women’s Studies Credit : ½ Course Length : Semester	This one semester elective will focus on Core Content standards for English Language Arts & Social Studies. Students will be introduced to a variety of sources including fiction, non-fiction, and film with an emphasis on the changing roles of women and how they express their views in writing.  Course is open to juniors and seniors, both male and female.

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE

Intro to Family & Consumer Science (FACS) Credit: 1 Course Length: Semester Grades: 9-12 Prerequisite: None	This comprehensive course provides an opportunity for acquiring basic life skills and guides students to explore and select specific areas for concentrated study.  Emphasis is on family, employability skills, adolescent development, introduction to textiles, interiors and design, financial management, challenges of parenting, establishing healthy relationships, and creating a foundation for healthy lifestyles and nutrition.  Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.
Child Services I Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grades: 11-12 Prerequisite: Child Development	This course provides training for entry-level positions in day care centers, nurseries, kindergartens, and private homes.  Students study careers in child development, child development and guidance, children’s health and well-being in group care, value of play, teaching strategies and management, and curriculum development.  The subject content is reinforced with work experience in a variety of childcare establishments.  Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.
Child Development Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grades: 10-12 Prerequisite: None	This course addresses the concepts related to understanding the areas and stages of human growth and development, recognizing effects of heredity and environment on human growth and development, meeting the needs of exceptional children, promoting optimum growth and development in the prenatal, infancy, toddler, preschool and school-age stages.  Careers in child/human development are explored.  Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) student organization.
Advanced Child Development Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grades: 11 - 12 Prerequisite: Child Development Or Principles of Teaching AND principal approval required.	This course addresses the practical problems related to understanding the types and stages of human growth and development, recognizing effects of heredity and environment on the life stages, meeting the needs of exceptional children, promoting optimum growth and development in the middle childhood, adolescent, and adulthood stages.  Careers in child/human development and adult care services are explored.  Students may have the opportunity to act as a student aid in special needs classroom. Regular student attendance is required if placed as an aid in a classroom. Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) student organization. Enrollment in Child Development or Principles of Teaching AND principal approval is required before enrolling in this course.
Foods & Nutrition Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: None	This course is designed to assist students in making critical decisions about food, which contributes to health and well-being. Laboratory instruction can be included as an application process.  Practical problems addressed relate to attitudes toward food, nutrition facts, special health concerns and diets, management of food resources, preparation skills and careers in nutrition and food service.  Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.
Culinary Skills I Credit: 1 Course Length: Semester Grades: 11-12 Prerequisite: Foods & Nutrition	This advanced course allows students to increase competencies in a variety of food preparation techniques. Emphasis will be placed on food presentation, garnishing, menu planning and the skills necessary to prepare for a career in the culinary arts. Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.
Culinary Skills II Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grades: 10-12 Prerequisite: Culinary Skills I	In this course students resume progress in pursuing competencies in food production and services. Orientation to the food service industry and development of food preparation skills are reinforced.  Food service management functions are introduced.  More in-depth information is provided and higher levels of skills are taught.  Time is provided for work based learning opportunities.  Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.
Relationships Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grades: 10-12 Prerequisite: None	This course assists students to develop self-understanding, understand others better, improve interpersonal skills both within and outside the family, be more considerate of other person’s needs and property, and maintain mental and emotional wellness.  Family Life education comprises a portion of this course, including dating and married relationships.  Preparations for and the achievement of a successful marriage are emphasized. Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.
Parenting Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grades: 10-12 Prerequisite: None	This course is designed to aid students in developing parenting and care giving skills that can be applied in a variety of situations. Major topics include becoming an informed parent, caring for the newborn, being an effective parent/caregiver, caring for the sick and elderly and exploring career opportunities in care giving. Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.
Principles of Teaching Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grades: 11-12 Prerequisite: Child Development	This course provides opportunities for students with an interest in teaching to develop skills, strategies, and techniques used for instruction at various grade levels.  Instruction addresses the principles and procedures for promoting the physical, emotional, social, and intellectual development of children, adolescents and developmentally appropriate practices in educational settings.  Students will gain work experience in classrooms with certified teachers as part of their course work.  Other components include the development of a four-year post-secondary plan, salaries and benefits of a teacher, job security, and future projections of the job market.  Leadership experiences will be provided through student organizations (e.g., co-curricular, extra-curricular).
Money Skills Credit: ½ Course Length : Semester Grades: 10-12 Prerequisite: None	This course is designed to prepare students to understand and use sound financial management skills and practices contributing to financial stability, improving the quality of life for individuals and families. Decision-making, problem solving, goal setting and using technology are integrated throughout the content. Leadership development will be provided through the Family, Career and Community Leaders of America.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

Spanish I Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grades: 9-12 Prerequisite: None	Spanish I is the beginning course of Spanish and provides the student with the basic concepts of the language. The student will have the opportunity to learn through basic Spanish conversational practice, Spanish music, films, food, guest speakers as well as cultural activities about the Spanish way of life.
Spanish II Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grades: 10-12 Prerequisite: Spanish I	Spanish II continues development in the four language skills: listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. Emphasis continues on the culture, customs, and traditions of the people whose language is studied.
Spanish III Credit: 1 Course Length: 2 Semesters Grades: 10-12 Prerequisite: Spanish II	Spanish III reviews and refines the basic grammar and vocabulary presented in Spanish I and Spanish II. The four basic language skills are emphasized through selected readings and activities that enhance the Spanish culture

HEALTH AND PHYSICAL EDUCATION

Health Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grades: 9-12 Prerequisite: None	This course will emphasize instruction in community/consumer health, safety and accident prevention, substance use and abuse, growth and development, personal health, mental health, family life, environmental health, and nutrition education.
Physical Ed Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Prerequisite: None	This course will raise the overall physical fitness level of each participating student to a level where the student recognizes the benefits of maintaining a high level of physical fitness. It also will teach basic skills and help students develop awareness and an interest in at least two (2) lifetime sports activities or activities with carryover value in later life.
Advanced PE Credit: 1/2 Course Length: Semester Grades: 10-12 Prerequisite: None	Advanced PE consists of a continuation of activities included in Physical Education I with emphasis on advanced skill development, rule knowledge and strategy acquisition, and lifetime skill development. A student can earn three credits in Advanced Physical Education.
Emergency Procedures Credit : ½ Course Length: Semester Grades: 9-12	This course focuses on potential emergency situations. It is designed to promote an understanding of standard precautions necessary for personal and professional health maintenance and infection control. Upon successful completion of the course, the student will have the opportunity for certification in First Aid and Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation.
Fitness & Weight Management Credit ½ Course Length : Semester Prerequisite: Football	This course is designed to teach students how to gain weight, lose weight, trim, tone and become physically fit, as well as how to plan and eat a healthy diet