High School Course Offerings

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of 9th Grade English Language Arts.

English/Language Arts is the study of language through the interpretation and analysis of texts. You will examine a collection of diverse, authentic texts and analyze the techniques used by their authors. You will then apply that learning to your own writing, drawing on a wide range of authorial techniques to support your own development as an author and thinker.

Semester A In Colorado English 9, Semester A, you will analyze techniques in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction texts to analyze thematic connections and inform your own writing and in-class discussions.

Semester B In Colorado English 9, Semester B, you will build on analysis and writing skills as you explore drama, historical documents, speeches, and shorter fictional texts.

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of 9th Grade Advanced English Language Arts.

English/Language Arts is the study of language through the interpretation and analysis of texts. You will examine a collection of diverse, authentic texts and analyze the techniques used by their authors. You will then apply that learning to your own writing, drawing on a wide range of authorial techniques to support your own development as an author and thinker.

In Colorado English 9, Semester A Honors, you will analyze techniques in poetry, fiction, and nonfiction texts to analyze thematic connections and inform your own writing and in-class discussions.

In Colorado English 9, Semester B Honors, you will build on analysis and writing skills as you explore drama, historical documents, speeches, and shorter fictional texts.

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of 10th Grade English Language Arts.

English/Language Arts is the study of language through the interpretation and analysis of texts. You will use the techniques you discover in authentic texts to improve your own skills as an author.

Semester A In Colorado English 10, Semester A, you will closely read classic, modern, and world literature to explore themes, literary elements, and word choice. By reading a variety of informational texts, you will analyze the development of central ideas through the structure and vocabulary. Throughout the course you will compose your own texts and brief analyses to demonstrate your learning.

Semester B In Colorado English 10, Semester B, you will closely read classic, modern, and world literature to explore themes through characterization and the structure of literary texts, including Shakespeare. You will closely read seminal documents to understand how authors develop an effective argument. In the culminating unit, you will use all the skills you have learned in this course to write your own research paper from texts you select.

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of 10th Grade Advanced English Language Arts.

English/Language Arts is the study of language through the interpretation and analysis of texts. You will use the techniques you discover in authentic texts to improve your own skills as an author.

In English 10 A Honors, you will closely read classic, modern, and world literature to explore themes, literary elements, and word choice. By reading a variety of informational texts, you will analyze the development of central ideas through the structure and vocabulary. Throughout the course you will compose your own texts and brief analyses to demonstrate your learning.

In English 10 B Honors, you will closely read classic, modern, and world literature to explore themes through characterization and the structure of literary texts, including Shakespeare. You will closely read seminal documents to understand how authors develop an effective argument. In the culminating unit, you will use all the skills you have learned in this course to write your own research paper from texts you select.

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of 11th Grade English Language Arts.

English/Language Arts is the study of the creation and analysis of literature written in the English language.

Semester A In Colorado English 11, Semester A, you will study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension and writing skills. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. In this course, you will read and analyze different genres in literature with an emphasis on American literary movements over time. You will also complete writing activities to evaluate literary works with regards to literary techniques, form, and theme.

Semester B In Colorado English 11, Semester B, you will study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension and writing skills. The instruction covers several types of writing, including creative, descriptive, and narrative. In this course, you will read and analyze a variety of literary genres with an emphasis on modern American literature and its literary movements. You will also complete writing activities to evaluate various literary works with regards to literary techniques, form, and theme.

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of 11th Grade Advanced English Language Arts.

English/Language Arts is the study of the creation and analysis of literature written in the English language.

In English 11 A Honors, you will study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension and writing skills. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. In this course, you will read and analyze different genres in literature with an emphasis on American literary movements over time. You will also complete writing activities to evaluate literary works with regards to
literary techniques, form, and theme.

In English 11 B Honors, you will study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension and writing skills. The instruction covers several types of writing, including creative, descriptive, and narrative. In this course, you will read and analyze a variety of literary genres with an emphasis on modern American literature and its literary movements. You will also complete writing activities to evaluate various literary works with
regards to literary techniques, form, and theme.

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Senior Literature, Composition and Communication.

English/Language Arts is the study of the creation and analysis of literature written in the English language.

Semester A In Colorado English 12, Semester A, you will explore the relation between British history and literature from the Anglo-Saxon period through the neoclassical era, including the works of Shakespeare. You will read and analyze a variety of literary works from this time period by using relevant cultural and political history presented in each lesson. In this course, you will also study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension, writing skills, and grammar and mechanics. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. In addition, you will complete writing activities using your analytical and persuasive skills.

Semester B In Colorado English 12, Semester B, you will explore the relation between British history and literature from the romantic period to the modern era. You will read and analyze a variety of literary works from this time in the context of relevant cultural and political history. In this course,
you will also study a variety of techniques to improve your reading comprehension, writing skills, and grammar and mechanics. The instruction covers many types of writing: creative, descriptive, expository, narrative, and persuasive. In addition, you will complete writing activities using your analytical and persuasive skills.

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of AP English Language and Composition WT.

In AP® English Language and Composition, students investigate rhetoric and its impact on culture through analysis of notable fiction and nonfiction texts, from pamphlets to speeches to personal essays. The equivalent of an introductory college-level survey class, this course prepares students for the AP® exam and for further study in communications, creative writing, journalism, literature, and composition.

Students explore a variety of textual forms, styles, and genres. By examining all texts through a rhetorical lens, students become skilled readers and analytical thinkers. Focusing specifically on language, purpose, and audience gives them a broad view of the effect of text and its cultural role. Students write expository and narrative texts to hone the effectiveness of their own use of language, and they develop varied, informed arguments through research. Throughout the course, students are evaluated with assessments specifically designed to prepare them for the content, form, and depth of the AP® Exam.

AP® English Language and Composition is recommended for 11th and 12th grade students. This course fulfills 11th grade requirements. Consequently, we recommend that students take only one of the following courses: English 11, Texas English III, and AP® English Language and Composition.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP® designation.

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of AP English Literature and Composition.

Each unit of AP® English Literature and Composition is based on a researched scope and sequence that covers the essential concepts of literature at an AP level. Students engage in in-depth analysis of literary works in order to provide both depth and breadth of coverage of the readings. Units include Close Analysis and Interpretation of Fiction, Short Fiction, the Novel, and Poetic Form and Content. Writing activities reinforce the reading activities and include writing arguments, analysis, interpretation, evaluation, and college application essays.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP® designation.

Please note that these are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Algebra 1.

Algebra 1, Semester A, is a single-semester course designed to build, develop, and periodically assess your subject-matter knowledge while strengthening your mathematical skills. Linear relationships are a main focus of this course. You will graph, create, and solve linear equations and apply function notation to describe linear relationships. You will also study linear transformations and represent linear data using scatter plots and mathematical models. You will write and solve systems of linear equations and inequalities. At the end of this course, you will represent, compare, and analyze datasets in a variety of contexts.

Algebra 1, Semester B, is a single-semester course designed to build, develop, and periodically assess your subject-matter knowledge while strengthening your mathematical skills. The major topics of this semester are quadratic and exponential relationships. You will learn to perform operations on polynomials and factor them. You will examine quadratic relationships in detail by writing and graphing quadratic equations. You will also model real-world situations with quadratic functions and solve quadratic equations using a variety of methods. You will investigate exponential relationships and apply exponential models to describe and make predictions about real-world situations. You will solve linear-quadratic and linear-exponential functions. At the end of the semester, you will compare different function types graphically and algebraically.

Please note that 02052G5.0034 and 02052G5.0044 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Advanced Algebra 1.

Semester A, is a single-semester course designed to build, develop, and periodically assess your subject-matter knowledge while strengthening your mathematical skills. Linear relationships are a main focus of this course. You will graph, create, and solve linear equations and apply function notation to describe linear relationships. You will also study linear transformations and represent linear data using scatter plots and mathematical models. You will write and solve systems of linear equations and inequalities. At the end of this course, you will represent, compare, and analyze datasets in a variety of contexts.

Algebra 1A Honors covers the same material as Algebra 1A. This advanced course requires additional extension assignments and has a modified, more rigorous, end of semester test at the end of the course.

Semester B, is a single-semester course designed to build, develop, and periodically assess your subject-matter knowledge while strengthening your mathematical skills. The major topics of this semester are quadratic and exponential relationships. You will learn to perform operations on polynomials and factor them. You will examine quadratic relationships in detail by writing and graphing quadratic equations. You will also model real-world situations with quadratic functions and solve quadratic equations using a variety of methods. You will investigate exponential relationships and apply exponential models to describe and make predictions about real-world situations. You will solve linear-quadratic and linear-exponential functions. At the end of the semester, you will compare different function types graphically and algebraically.

Algebra 1B Honors covers the same material as Algebra 1B. This advanced course requires additional extension assignments and has a modified, more rigorous, end of semester test at the end of the course.

Please note that 02072G5.0012 and 02072G5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Geometry.

Geometry is a branch of mathematics that uses logic and formal thinking to establish relationships among points, lines, angles, plane figures, and solids, and to define their properties. 

In Geometry, Semester A, you will explore foundations of geometry, coordinate geometry, and rigid and non-rigid transformations of figures in the coordinate plane, using them to establish congruence and similarity of polygons. You will investigate and prove theorems about lines, angles, triangles, parallelograms, and other polygons and build geometric constructions using both basic tools and technology.

In Geometry, Semester B, you will explore right triangles, trigonometry, and properties of circles and apply geometric concepts to probability. You will also investigate and measure surface area and volume of geometric solids, applying what you learn to model and solve real-world problems.

Please note that 02072E5.0014 and 02072E5.0024 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Advanced Geometry.

Geometry courses, emphasizing an abstract, formal approach to the study of geometry, typically include topics such as properties of plane and solid figures; deductive methods of reasoning and use of logic; geometry as an axiomatic system including the study of postulates, theorems, and formal proofs; concepts of congruence, similarity, parallelism, perpendicularity, and proportion; and rules of angle measurement in triangles, quadrilaterals, vertical angles, lines intersected by a transversal, etc. The pace of an advanced course may be faster than that of the Geometry course.

Geometry A Honors covers the same material as Geometry A (02072G5.0012). This advanced course requires additional extension assignments and has a modified, more rigorous, end of semester test at the end of the course.

Geometry B Honors covers the same material as Geometry A (02072G5.0022). This advanced course requires additional extension assignments and has a modified, more rigorous, end of semester test at the end of the course.

Please note that 02056G5.0012 and 02056G5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Algebra 2.

Algebra 2, Semester A, is a single-semester course designed to cultivate and periodically assess your subject-matter knowledge while strengthening your mathematical skills. You will begin building a solid foundation for the course by focusing on understanding how expressions and functions can model relationships. The course has a concentrated focus on polynomial, radical, and rational functions, so you will expand your arithmetic skills to include polynomial, radical, and rational expressions and equations. You will analyze the key features with tables, graphs, and equations when they are in function form. With consistent application of these functions throughout the duration of the course, you will understand how they can model relationships and solve real-world problems, often utilizing technology.

Algebra 2, Semester B, Semester B, is a single-semester course designed to cultivate and periodically assess your subject-matter knowledge while strengthening your mathematical skills. You will begin by studying exponential and logarithmic equations and functions, discovering relationships and ways these function types can model real-world situations. Expanding on your knowledge of functions, you will study how arithmetic and geometric sequences can be used to solve problems. You will also learn about piecewise functions and their key features, and closely compare the key features of different function types. This course includes lessons that focus on trigonometric functions and their features, emphasizing transformations and modeling phenomena. Finally, you will build your understanding of the key concepts of statistics and probability to investigate sampling techniques and make inferences from data.

Please note that 02056E5.0014 and 02056E5.0024 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Advanced Algebra 2.

Algebra 2 course topics typically include developing an understanding of the relationships between the symbolic, graphic, tabular and verbal representations of functions; utilizing the various representations to interpret function behavior and solve equations; operations with rational and irrational expressions; factoring of rational expressions; in-depth study of linear equations and inequalities; quadratic equations; solving systems of linear and quadratic equations; graphing of constant, linear, and quadratic equations; properties of higher-degree equations; exponential functions; inverse functions; statistical modeling; modeling linear and quadratic data; and operations with rational and irrational exponents. The pace of an advanced course may be faster than that of the Algebra 1 course.

Algebra 2 A Honors covers the same material as Algebra 2A (02056G5.0012 ). This advanced course requires additional extension assignments and has a modified, more rigorous, end of semester test at the end of the course.

Algebra 2 B Honors covers the same material as Algebra 2B (02056G5.0022 ). This advanced course requires additional extension assignments and has a modified, more rigorous, end of semester test at the end of the course.

Please note that 02110G5.0012 and 02110G5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Precalculus.

Studying higher algebra and trigonometry leads to a better understanding of calculus. In Precalculus, Semester A, you will explore and build your knowledge of inverse, trigonometric, and logarithmic functions; trigonometric identities; complex numbers; and vectors. You will also apply this knowledge to real-world situations.

Precalculus encompasses the rudiments of calculus, analytical geometry, and trigonometry. In Precalculus, Semester B, you will explore and build your knowledge of conic sections, matrices, sequences, induction, and probability and apply this knowledge to real-world situations. You will also study basic concepts of calculus, such as the limits of a function and area under the curve.

Please note that 02110E5.0012 and 02110E5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Precalculus ADV WT.

Precalculus builds on algebraic concepts to prepare students for calculus. The course begins with a review of basic algebraic concepts and moves into operations with functions, where students manipulate functions and their graphs. Precalculus also provides a detailed look at trigonometric functions, their graphs, the trigonometric identities, and the unit circle. Finally, students are introduced to polar coordinates, parametric equations, and limits.

Please note that 02203H5.0013 and 02203H5.0023 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of AP Statistics WT.

AP® Statistics gives students hands-on experience collecting, analyzing, graphing, and interpreting real-world data. They will learn to effectively design and analyze research studies by reviewing and evaluating real research examples taken from daily life. The next time they hear the results of a poll or study, they will know whether the results are valid. As the art of drawing conclusions from imperfect data and the science of real-world uncertainties, statistics plays an important role in many fields. The equivalent of an introductory college-level course, AP® Statistics prepares students for the AP® exam and for further study in science, sociology, medicine, engineering, political science, geography, and business.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP® designation.

Please note that 02124H5.0012 and 02124H5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of AP Calculus WT.

AP® Calculus grounds the study of calculus in real-world scenarios and integrates it with the four STEM disciplines. The first semester covers functions, limits, derivatives and the application of derivatives. The course goes on to cover differentiation and antidifferentiation, applications of integration, inverse functions, and techniques of integration.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP® designation.

This is a one semester course.

Probability and Statistics is a mathematics course that teaches two related, but distinguishable disciplines. Probability is the study of the likelihood that an event will occur. For example, what is the likelihood that you will win a writing contest if there are 3,000 entries? What are the chances that you will land that lead role in the school play if 30 students audition? In statistics, you will practice the science of collecting and analyzing numerical data in order to make decisions. The study of statistics upholds that of probability. You’ve likely worked with both disciplines to varying degrees during your
math education.

In this course, you will represent and interpret data using dot plots, histograms, box plots, two-way frequency tables, and scatter plots. You will study normal distributions and distinguish between correlation and causation. You will also determine the conditional probability of two events or whether the events are independent. Using counting techniques and the rules of probability, you will calculate probabilities and use the results to make educated and fair decisions. You will evaluate several data collection techniques and statistical models, including simulations. The course closes with information on how you can use probability models to represent situations arising in everyday life that involve both payoff and risk.

Two semesters of Algebra 1 is a prerequisite for Probability and Statistics. Before beginning this course, you should be able to do the following:

• Represent linear relationships graphically and with equations.
• Graph functions using basic calculator skills.
• Understand that the probability of a chance event is a number between 0 and 1.

Please note that 03159G5.0012 and 03159G5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Physical Science.

Science is the study of the natural world. It relies on experimentation and evidence to describe the natural events that occur around us. Physical science is the study of matter and energy. 

In Physical Science A, you’ll describe the atomic and molecular structure of substances using models. You will investigate how chemical reactions involve energy and lead to changes in properties of substances. You’ll also model different kinds of forces and the effect they have on the motion of objects. You’ll solve problems involving work and power and apply these principles to simple machines. Finally, you will see how simple machines make up more complex machines that are important in our lives.

In Physical Science B, you’ll investigate gravitational, electric, and magnetic force fields and identify factors that determine their strength. You’ll apply
concepts of electricity and magnetism to explain how motors, generators, and electromagnets work. You will discuss energy transformations in objects and systems, including how heat flows between objects that are at different temperatures. You will model how sound and light travel as waves and how they interact with different forms of matter. Finally, you’ll explore how electromagnetic waves help us communicate with one another and collect information about the universe.

Please note that 03051G5.0012 and 03051G5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Biology.

Biology with Virtual Labs A is a single-semester course designed to strengthen your knowledge of basic biology. The first unit introduces biology and biochemistry. It focuses on the roles of and differences between plant and animal cells. In the second unit, you’ll learn about the functions of different organ systems. The third unit covers cell division and the role of DNA and chromosomes in passing traits from parents to offspring. You will also have the option to learn more about biology through augmented reality and the use of the Edmentum AR Biology app on your mobile device.

Biology with Virtual Labs B is a single-semester course designed to strengthen your knowledge of biology concepts. The first unit focuses on the classification, characteristics and biological processes of living organisms. In the second unit, you’ll study evolutionary mechanisms and the impact of environmental factors on species over time. The third unit focuses on the conservation of energy as it relates to living things and different ecosystems. In the last unit, you’ll explore how different ecosystems are interdependent. You will also have the option to learn more about biology through augmented reality and the use of the Edmentum AR Biology app on your mobile device.

Please note that 03052E5.0014 and 03052E5.0024 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Advanced Biology.

Biology with Virtual Labs A Honors is a single-semester course designed to strengthen your knowledge of basic biology. The first unit introduces biology and biochemistry. It focuses on the roles of and differences between plant and animal cells. In the second unit, you’ll learn about the functions of different organ systems. The third unit covers cell division and the role of DNA and chromosomes in passing traits from parents to offspring. You will also have the option to learn more about biology through augmented reality and the use of the Edmentum AR Biology app on your mobile device.

Biology with Virtual Labs B Honors is a single-semester course designed to strengthen your knowledge of biology concepts. The first unit focuses on the classification, characteristics and biological processes of living organisms. In the second unit, you’ll study evolutionary mechanisms and the impact of environmental factors on species over time. The third unit focuses on the conservation of energy as it relates to living things and different ecosystems. In the last unit, you’ll explore how different ecosystems are interdependent. You will also have the option to learn more about biology through augmented reality and the use of the Edmentum AR Biology app on your mobile device.

Please note that 03101G5.0012 and 03101G5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Chemistry.

Chemistry is the study of matter and how it changes. This course looks at matter’s composition, properties, and transformations.

In Semester A, you’ll explore the structure and properties of matter. You’ll analyze and construct the periodic table of elements. You’ll compare elements based on their atomic structures and relative positions in the periodic table. You will also discuss the chemical bonding taking place in ionic and covalent compounds and metals. Finally, you’ll predict the outcome of chemical reactions based on the reactants involved.

In Semester B, you will calculate the theoretical quantities of substances involved in a chemical reaction through the study of stoichiometry. You’ll analyze chemical reactions that involve aqueous solutions, acids and bases, and gases. You’ll see how gases respond to changes in pressure, volume,
temperature, and quantity through the ideal gas law. You’ll also calculate changes in temperature caused by physical and chemical processes and analyze reactions in terms of bond energies. Finally, you will understand how atoms are changed by the unique processes of radioactive decay, nuclear fusion, and nuclear fission.

Please note that 03101E5.0012 and 03101E5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Advanced Chemistry.

Chemistry is the study of matter and how it changes. This course looks at matter’s composition, properties, and transformations.

In Semester A, you’ll explore the structure and properties of matter. You’ll analyze and construct the periodic table of elements. You’ll compare elements based on their atomic structures and relative positions in the periodic table. You will also discuss the chemical bonding taking place in ionic and covalent compounds and metals. Finally, you’ll predict the outcome of chemical reactions based on the reactants involved.

In Semester B, you will calculate the theoretical quantities of substances involved in a chemical reaction through the study of stoichiometry. You’ll analyze chemical reactions that involve aqueous solutions, acids and bases, and gases. You’ll see how gases respond to changes in pressure, volume,
temperature, and quantity through the ideal gas law. You’ll also calculate changes in temperature caused by physical and chemical processes and analyze reactions in terms of bond energies. Finally, you will understand how atoms are changed by the unique processes of radioactive decay, nuclear fusion, and nuclear fission.

Please note that 03151G5.0012 and 03151G5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Physics.

Physics offers a curriculum that emphasizes students' understanding of fundamental physics concepts while helping them acquire tools to be conversant in a society highly influenced by science and technology.

The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice critical scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Topics include the nature of science, math for physics, energy, kinematics, force and motion, momentum, gravitation, chemistry for physics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, waves, nuclear physics, quantum physics, and cosmology.

Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science.

Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how physics concepts are applied in technology and engineering. Journal and Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing skills.

Please note that 03151E5.0012 and 03151E5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Advanced Physics.

Physics offers a curriculum that emphasizes students' understanding of fundamental physics concepts while helping them acquire tools to be conversant in a society highly influenced by science and technology.

The course provides students with opportunities to learn and practice critical scientific skills within the context of relevant scientific questions. Topics include the nature of science, math for physics, energy, kinematics, force and motion, momentum, gravitation, chemistry for physics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, waves, nuclear physics, quantum physics, and cosmology.

Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Lab activities reinforce critical thinking, writing, and communication skills and help students develop a deeper understanding of the nature of science.

Throughout this course, students are given an opportunity to understand how physics concepts are applied in technology and engineering. Journal and Practice activities provide additional opportunities for students to apply learned concepts and practice their writing skills.

Please note that 03056H5.0012 and 03056H5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of AP Biology.

AP® Biology builds students' understanding of biology on both the micro and macro scales. After studying cell biology, students move on to understand how evolution drives the diversity and unity of life. Students will examine how living systems store, retrieve, transmit, and respond to information and how organisms utilize free energy. The equivalent of an introductory college-level biology course, AP® Biology prepares students for the AP® exam and for further study in science, health sciences, or engineering.

The AP® Biology course provides a learning experience focused on allowing students to develop their critical thinking skills and cognitive strategies. Frequent no- and low-stakes assessments allow students to measure their comprehension and improve their performance as they progress through each activity. Students regularly engage with primary sources, allowing them to practice the critical reading and analysis skills that they will need in order to pass the AP® exam and succeed in a college biology course. Students perform hands-on labs that give them insight into the nature of science and help them understand biological concepts, as well as how evidence can be obtained to support those concepts. Students also complete several virtual lab studies in which they form hypotheses; collect, analyze, and manipulate data; and report their findings and conclusions. During both virtual and traditional lab investigations and research opportunities, students summarize their findings and analyze others' findings in summaries, using statistical and mathematical calculations when appropriate. Summative tests are offered at the end of each unit as well as at the end of each semester, and contain objective and constructed response items. Robust scaffolding, rigorous instruction, relevant material and regular active learning opportunities ensure that students can achieve mastery of the skills necessary to excel on the AP® exam.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP® designation.

Please note that 03207H5.0012 and 03207H5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of AP Environmental Science WT.

AP® Environmental Science provides students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world. The course draws upon various disciplines, including geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography in order to explore a variety of environmental topics. The equivalent of an introductory college-level science course, AP® Environmental Science prepares students for the AP® exam and for further study in science, health sciences, or engineering. Scientific inquiry skills are embedded in the direct instruction, wherein students learn to ask scientific questions, deconstruct claims, form and test hypotheses, and use logic and evidence to draw conclusions about the concepts. Frequent no- and low-stakes assessments allow students to measure their comprehension and improve their performance as they progress through each activity.

Students also perform hands-on labs and projects that give them insight into the nature of science and help them understand environmental concepts, as well as how evidence can be obtained to support those concepts.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP® designation.

This is a one semester course.

US Government is the study of the founding principles of democracy in the United States, the structures and details of how the government functions, and the role of the individual citizen in participating in that democracy. In US Government, you will learn about the principles and events that led to the founding of the United States in the eighteenth century; examine how the operations of the US government are spread among three branches of government and distributed between the national, state, and federal levels of government; explore the role of the individual citizen in the operations of the government; and, finally, apply these concepts to understanding the concrete areas of foreign, domestic, and economic policy. You’ll explore timelines to gain an understanding of how events link to each other and to the structures of government that exist today, and you’ll analyze historical
documents for a firsthand sense of how government structures were designed. You’ll also gather evidence from relevant documents and historical texts to develop credible explanations of how and why the government exists as it does. You’ll then use that evidence to express viewpoints on the operations of government by writing essays and creating presentations about topics of relevance to modern US citizens.

This is a one semester course.

Geography and World Cultures is a robust, one-semester course that explores how geographic features, human relationships, political and social structures, economics, science and technology, and the arts have developed and influenced life in countries around the world. Along the way, students are given rigorous instruction on how to read maps, charts, and graphs, and how to create them.

Please note that 04051G5.0012 and 04051G5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of  World History.

In World History, learners will explore historical world events with the help of innovative videos, timelines, and interactive maps and images. Learners will develop historical thinking skills and apply them to their study of European exploration, the Renaissance, the Reformation, and major world revolutions. They will also study World War I, World War II, the Cold War, and the benefits and challenges of living in the modern world.

Please note that 04101G5.0012 and 04101G5.0022 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of U.S. History.

This US History course promotes the examination, analysis, and evaluation of important events in the history of the United States of America.

In Semester A, you will examine events that shaped the birth, growth, and expansion of the nation from the late 1700s through the mid-
1900s. These events are told through multiple diverse perspectives and include a focus on primary and secondary sources. Throughout the course, you will use inquiry skills to examine, ask questions, and analyze the impacts of historical events and actions, and will discuss the outcomes of them with your peers. You will also form opinions about historical events and support your opinions with information from your reading. Not only will you investigate history, but you will also use critical thinking and analytical skills through Clarifying Big Ideas lessons in order to gain a deeper understanding of history.

In Semester B, you will examine events that impacted America—from the Cold War to the Civil Rights Movement through the War on Terror. These events are told through a variety of viewpoints and primary and secondary sources. Throughout the course, you will use inquiry to examine and analyze the impacts of events and actions. You will discuss the outcomes with your peers. You will also form opinions about events and support your opinions with facts that you learned.

This is a one semester course.

Psychology provides a solid overview of the field's major domains: methods, biopsychology, cognitive and developmental psychology, and variations in individual and group behavior. 

By focusing on significant scientific research and on the questions that are most important to psychologists, students see psychology as an evolving science. Each topic clusters around challenge questions, such as “What is happiness?” Students answer these questions before, during, and after they interact with direct instruction. 

This course is built to state standards and informed by the American Psychological Association's National Standards for High School Psychology Curricula. The teaching methods draw from the National Science Teachers Association (NSTA) teaching standards.

This is a one semester course.

This one-semester elective course is intended as a practical, hands-on guide to introduce you to the field of sociology. You will explore the evolution of sociology as a distinct social science, learn about sociological concepts and processes, and discuss how the individual relates to society. You will also learn about the influence of culture, social structure, socialization, and social change in today's society.

This is a one semester course.

This course covers basic economic problems such as scarcity, choice, and effective use of resources. It also covers topics on a larger scale such as market structures and international trade. It particularly focuses on the US economy and analyzes the role of the government and the Federal Reserve System.

This is a one semester course.

AP U.S. Government and Politics studies the operations and structure of the U.S. government and the behavior of the electorate and politicians. Students will gain the analytic perspective necessary to critically evaluate political data, hypotheses, concepts, opinions, and processes. Along the way, they'll learn how to gather data about political behavior and develop their own theoretical analysis of American politics. They'll also build the skills they need to examine general propositions about government and politics, and to analyze the specific relationships between political, social, and economic institutions. The equivalent of an introductory college-level course, AP U.S. Government and Politics prepares students for the AP exam and for further study in political science, law, education, business, and history.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP designation.

Please note that 04104H5.0014 and 04104H5.0024 are separate one-semester courses. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of AP U.S. History.

Each of the units in the course provides students with a survey of US history topics in which they analyze problems and themes for each era through supplementary readings while developing and deepening their understanding of the events, people, and places that were relevant during the time period. Students will also learn to assess primary and secondary sources. This course is meant to have students think conceptually about the issues facing the United States and how those issues have influenced our history, rather than just memorizing facts and dates.

This is a one semester course.

AP Macroeconomics students learn why and how the world economy can change from month to month, how to identify trends in our economy, and how to use those trends to develop performance measures and predictors of economic growth or decline. They'll also examine how individuals, institutions, and influences affect people, and how those factors can impact everyone's life through employment rates, government spending, inflation, taxes, and production. The equivalent of a 100-level college-level class, this course prepares students for the AP exam and for further study in business, political science and history.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP designation.

This is a one semester course.

AP® Microeconomics studies the behavior of individuals and businesses as they exchange goods and services in the marketplace. Students will learn why the same product costs different amounts at different stores, in different cities, at different times. They'll also learn to spot patterns in economic behavior and how to use those patterns to explain buyer and seller behavior under various conditions. Microeconomics studies the economic way of thinking, understanding the nature and function of markets, the role of scarcity and competition, the influence of factors such as interest rates on business decisions, and the role of government in promoting a healthy economy. The equivalent of a 100-level college course, AP® Microeconomics prepares students for the AP® exam and for further study in business, history, and political science.

This course has been authorized by the College Board® to use the AP® designation.

This is a one semester course.

AP® Psychology is a one-semester course that provides an overview of current psychological research methods and theories. Students will explore the therapies used by professional counselors and clinical psychologists and examine the reasons for normal human reactions: how people learn and think, the process of human development, and human aggression, altruism, intimacy, and self-reflection. They will study core psychological concepts, such as the brain and sense functions, and learn to gauge human reactions, gather information, and form meaningful syntheses. Along the way, students will also investigate relevant concepts like study skills and information retention. The equivalent of an introductory college-level survey course, AP® Psychology prepares students for the AP® exam and for further studies in psychology or life sciences.

Please note that 05169G5.0013 and 05169G5.0023 are separate one-semester courses. 0013 is a prerequisite for 0023. 

Digital and Interactive Media 1 is intended as a practical, hands-on guide to help you understand the concepts of digital and interactive media. This course will cover careers, training, and emerging technologies in digital media. This course familiarizes you with the concepts involved in digital media, such as graphic design, digital photography, principles of design, and digital printing. This course also covers copyright laws and fair use involved in digital media.

Digital and Interactive Media 2 is intended as a practical, hands-on guide to help you understand the concepts related to digital communication systems, audio and video production, multimedia, animation, and digital publishing. This course will cover digital communication systems. This course familiarizes you with audio and video technologies. This course also covers digital media design, multimedia, and animation. In addition, this course teaches you how to create a web page, publish digital products, and create a digital portfolio.

Please note that 05167G5.0014 and 05167G5.0024 are separate one-semester courses. 0014 is a prerequisite for 0024. Students must take both courses to complete a full year of Photography.

Professional Photography is intended as a practical, hands-on guide to help you understand the skills required to achieve success in photography careers. This course has 14 lessons organized into four units, plus four Unit Activities. Each lesson contains one or more Lesson Activities.

This course will cover various topics in photography, such as camera exposure settings, portrait photography, advertising photography, architectural photography, photographic special effects, retouching photographs, restoring old photographs, analog photography, darkroom equipment and development, safety procedures, evaluating photographs, stages of production, and photography portfolio.

You will submit the Unit Activity documents to your teacher, and you will grade your work in the Lesson Activities by comparing them with given sample responses. The Unit Activities (submitted to the teacher) and the Lesson Activities (self-checked) are the major components of this course. There are other assessment components, namely the mastery test questions that feature along with the lesson; the pre- and post-test questions that come at the beginning and end of the unit, respectively; and an end-of-semester test. All of these tests are a combination of simple multiple-choice questions and technology enhanced (TE) questions.

This is a one semester course.

Everyone needs to take care of their body, but we aren’t necessarily born with the knowledge of how to go about it. It’s important to invest time and energy into understanding what it means to be healthy. There are many activities you can engage in which are dangerous for your long-term health, so you need to know how to identify and avoid these activities. It’s also important to identify lifestyles which will lead to a longer, more enjoyable life. This course will guide you through lifestyle choices you will make which will ultimately impact your life in meaningful ways.

This is a one semester course.

08005G5.0046 is only offered by BVSD Online during the summer term.

This course takes a more in-depth look at the five components of physical fitness: muscular strength, endurance, cardiovascular health, flexibility, and body composition. This course allows students to discover new interests as they experiment with a variety of exercises in a non-competitive atmosphere. By targeting different areas of fitness, students increase their understanding of health habits and practices and improve their overall fitness level. Students take a pre- and post-fitness assessment. Throughout this course students also participate in a weekly fitness program involving elements of cardio, strength, and flexibility.

This is a one semester course.

Walking Fitness helps students establish a regular walking program for health and fitness. Walking is appropriate for students of all fitness levels and is a great way to maintain a moderately active lifestyle. In addition to reviewing fundamental principles of fitness, students learn about goals and motivation, levels of training, walking mechanics, safety and injury prevention, appropriate attire, walking in the elements, good nutrition and hydration, and effective cross-training. Students take a pre- and post-fitness assessment. Throughout this course students also participate in a weekly fitness program involving walking, as well as elements of resistance training and flexibility.

This is a one semester course.

Strength Training by Carone Fitness focuses on the fitness components of muscular strength and endurance. Throughout this course students establish their fitness level, set goals, and design their own resistance training program. They study muscular anatomy and learn specific exercises to strengthen each muscle or muscle group. Students focus on proper posture and technique while training. They also gain an understanding of how to apply the FITT principles and other fundamental exercise principles, such as progression and overload, to strength training.

This is a one semester course.

This one-semester course is intended to help you familiarize yourself with the basic and essential concepts of finance. This course has twenty-one lessons organized into five units. Each unit has a Unit Activity, and each lesson contains one or more Lesson Activities. This course will cover the fundamental concepts of finance, including the importance of finances and financial planning in personal life and business, ways to manage finances, different investment strategies, and various career options available in the field of finance. You will submit the Unit Activity documents to your teacher, and you will grade your work on the Lesson Activities by comparing them with the given sample responses. The Unit Activities (submitted to the teacher) and the Lesson Activities (self-checked) are the major components of this course. There are other assessment components, namely the mastery test questions that feature along with the lesson; the pre- and post-test questions that come at the beginning and end of the unit, respectively; and an end-of-semester test. All of these tests are a combination of simple multiple-choice questions and technology enhanced (TE) questions.