Decide Which Course Level is Right for You
Courses can be offered at Standard, Honors, or Advanced Placement levels. You should choose the level that is the most appropriate for you. Discuss this with your parents/guardians, and your school counselor/teachers/advisors. Ask someone to talk about the course expectations at the various levels. Remember, we want what is best for you and your success means a great deal to us. Please make sure this is a decision that you feel good about!
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Career and Technical Education (CTE) Follow the link for descriptions of CTE classes
Students earn 1 unit of credit for English I, II, III, and IV.
All courses use the NC State Standards for English.
Honors courses require students to master more rigorous and complex material and skills at a faster pace.
Advanced Placement courses require students to master college level material, skills, and pacing. Students are expected to take the AP exam. AP courses are weighted plus one in the calculation of GPA.
English I & Honors English I
Prerequisite: None
English I students will study literature, informational texts, poetry, drama, biographical works, historical documents, and art from all genres to gain knowledge of culture, current events and themselves. They will gain the reading and writing skills necessary to write, analyze and evaluate detailed arguments. By the end of English I, students will read and understand increasingly complex texts at the upper end of ninth grade reading range.
English II & Honors English II
Prerequisite: English I
English II students will study literature, informational texts, poetry, drama, biographical works, historical documents, and art from the Americas (Caribbean, Central, South, and North), Africa, Eastern Europe, Asia, Oceania, and the Middle East to come to a better understanding of world cultures, contemporary issues, and their world. They will fine tune the reading and writing skills necessary to write, analyze and evaluate detailed arguments. By the end of English II, students will read and understand increasingly complex texts at the upper end of the tenth grade reading range. Students are required to take the North Carolina English II End of Course Exam.
English III & Honors English III
Prerequisite: English II
English III students will study literature, historical documents, informational texts, poetry, drama, biographical works, and art from the United States to gain a better understanding of the U.S. in terms of history, literature and culture. They will develop the complex literacy skills necessary to compile information from sources into a meaningful and well written original text. By the end of English III, students are expected to read and understand increasingly complex texts at the high end of the 11th grade reading range.
Advanced Placement English Language and Composition
Prerequisite: English II
Full Year Class. This intensive, college-level course emphasizes the rhetorical structures of effective writing. Students study American Literature and its relationship to the historical and cultural trends of American society. An AP English Language and Composition course cultivates the reading and writing skills that students need for college success and for intellectually responsible civic engagement.
English IV & Honors English IV
Prerequisite: English III
English IV students will study literature, historical documents, informational texts, poetry, drama, biographical works, historical documents, and art from Great Britain and Europe to better gain a basic understanding of the influence of Europe’s history on world literature and culture. They will master the complex literacy skills necessary to gather and evaluate information into various kinds of original writing. By the end of English IV, students are expected to read and understand increasingly complex texts at the upper end of the twelfth grade reading range.
Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition
Prerequisite: English III
1 semester AP course. This intensive, college-level course engages students in the close reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature to deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide both meaning and pleasure. As they read, students consider a work’s structure, style, and themes, as well as its use of figurative language, imagery, symbolism, and tone. Writing assignments include expository, analytical, and argumentative essays that require students to analyze and interpret literary works.
Broadcast Journalism I & II
Prerequisite: None
As a member of the broadcast staff, students learn the aspects of producing a school newscast. This may include researching stories, interviews, camera-work and other technical responsibilities. Please see the school instructor for more details.
MATHEMATICS
Students earn 1 unit of credit for each successfully completed course.
All courses use the NC State Standards for Mathematics.
Honors courses require students to demonstrate rigor, manage greater complexity, and apply mathematics concepts more deeply.
Advanced Placement courses are equivalent to college level courses. Students are expected to take the AP exams.
With the State Standards for Mathematics, high school learners can anticipate a rigorous curriculum which will adequately prepare them for further study and application of mathematics as they pursue college and various career options. Students can also expect a deliberate focus on the mathematical practices to facilitate their learning of this rigorous content:
• To make sense of problems and persevere in solving them
• To reason abstractly and quantitatively
• To construct viable arguments and critique the reasoning of others
• To model with mathematics
• To use appropriate tools strategically
• To attend to precision
• To look for and make use of structure
• To look for and express regularity in repeated reasoning
These mathematical practices are applied throughout each course, and with the content standards of that course, prescribe that students experience mathematics as a coherent, useful, and logical subject that makes use of their ability to make sense of problem situations.
Foundations of NC Math 1
Prerequisite: None. (This course is not available to students who have passed Math I)
Foundation of Math 1 is designed for students who need additional preparation either before entering Math 1 or simultaneously with Math 1. It provides students a survey of preparatory topics for high school mathematics. Appropriate technology and tools, including manipulatives and calculators, will be used regularly for instruction and assessment.
NC Math 1/ NC Math 1 Honors
NC Math 1 is the first high school mathematics course. This course addresses standards of functions, algebra, numbers and quantities, geometry and statistics. Students formalize and deepen their understanding of linear functions and develop new understandings of exponential and quadratic functions. Each of the identified functions is studied as family in of itself and is also compared and contrast to other function families of this course. Students study univariate data trends and use formal statistical measures to compare and contrast data sets. Additionally, students look at trends in bivariate data and summarize, represent and interpret models that exhibit linear and exponential trends. Students connect geometry and algebra through a focus on coordinate geometry in Math 1. The NC End of Course Exam for NC Math 1 is required of all students enrolled in
NC Math 1.
NC Math 2/ NC Math 2 Honors
Prerequisite: Math I/Math I Honors
NC Math 2 is the second course of a three course sequence in high school mathematics. In NC Math 2 students continue to add to their repertoire of function families by deepening function families from new courses and adding new families to their toolkit. Radical and rational functions are new to this course. Along with new function families, NC Math 2 students are expected to increase their sophistication with algebra skills. Students are asked to look at both equations and inequalities in two variables within the course appropriate function families and required to analyze, interpret, generate and/or manipulate multiple representations of functions. The geometry component of NC Math 2 is focused on similarity and congruence concepts and under this umbrella students define and solve problems using trigonometric ratios. Additionally, students use transformations to prove and justify similarity and congruences in coordinate and plane figures. Students are also expected to generate formal arguments for geometrical claims regarding triangles and parallel lines. The link between probability and data is explored through independence, conditional probability and compound probability including their use in making models and evaluating decisions.
NC Math 3/NC Math 3 Honors
Prerequisite: Math II/Math II Honors
NC Math 3 is the third course in the three course sequence for high school mathematics in North Carolina. In NC Math 3 students continue to add to their repertoire of function families by exploring and applying understandings of the much broader topic of polynomial functions. NC Math 3 students are expected to continue increasing their sophistication with algebra skills and are required to analyze, interpret, generate and/or manipulate multiple representations of many function types. New function families introduced and explored in NC Math 3 include simple trigonometric, piecewise, and logarithmic. Geometrical argumentation and proof is expected of NC Math 3 students as students prove theorems of circles and quadrilaterals. Connecting geometry and algebra to solve and justify solutions to geometrical modeling problems is a requirement for Math 3. Students also learn about statistical processes to make inferences and justify conclusions from sample surveys, experiments and observational studies. The NC End of Course Exam is required of all students enrolled in NC Math 3.
NC Math 4/NC Math 4 Honors
Prerequisite: Math III/Math III Honors
Math 4 is a fourth level math class that meets minimum admissions requirements for the UNC System. In Math 4 students continue to refine functions and statistical thinking, continuing the study of algebra, functions, trigonometry and statistical concepts previously experienced in NC Math 1-3. The course is designed to be a capstone to introductory statistical concepts. Additionally, the course intentionally integrates concepts from algebra and functions to demonstrate the close relationship between algebraic reasoning as applied to the characteristics and behaviors of more complex functions. In many cases, undergraduate students majoring in non-STEM fields will take an entry-level Algebra or Introductory Statistics course. Students will be prepared for college level algebra and statistics or as a bridge to prepare students for Precalculus or other advanced math courses.
Pre-Calculus Honors
Prerequisite: Math III/Math III Honors
Precalculus is an honors-only course that build upon the study of algebra, functions, and trigonometry experienced in previous high school mathematics courses. This course will build on students’ algebraic skills and understanding of functions to delve into real world phenomena and to deepen understanding of the functions in the course. This course is designed for students pursuing careers in STEM-related fields. Students will be prepared for Calculus, AP Calculus and any entry-level college course.
Advanced Placement Calculus AB
Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus Honors/Math IV Honors
This course explores the key concepts, methods, and applications of single-variable calculus including functions, graphs, and limits, derivatives, integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. Students will become familiar with concepts, results, and problems expressed in multiple ways including graphically, numerically, analytically, and verbally. Technology will be used to help solve problems, experiment, interpret results, and support conclusions.
Math 152 (MAT-152) AB Tech course
Student must have an unweighted GPA of 2.8+ and complete AB Tech Application. (11th & 12th Grade only)
This course provides a project-based approach to introductory statistics with an emphasis on using real-world data and statistical literacy. Topics include descriptive statistics, correlation and regression, basic probability, discrete and continuous probability distributions, confidence intervals and hypothesis testing. Upon completion, students will be able to use appropriate technology to describe important characteristics of a data set, draw inferences about a population from sample data, and interpret and communicate results. This is a Universal General Education Transfer Component (UGETC) course that satisfies Mathematics (Quantitative) for the Associate in Arts.
Students earn 1 unit of credit for each successfully completed course.
All courses use the NC Standard Course of Study.
Honors courses require students to demonstrate greater rigor, manage greater complexity, and move at a faster pace.
Advanced Placement courses are equivalent to college freshman courses and include an exam prescribed by the College Board.
Required Science Courses
Earth-Environmental Science/Honors Earth-Environmental Science
Prerequisite: None
This course investigates the four main branches of earth science: geology, meteorology, astronomy, and oceanography. Students learn about the interrelationships among living organisms and their physical environment through laboratory activities. Students study how people impact their environment and how their environment influences them.
Biology I/Honors Biology I
Prerequisite: None
Students survey the history and development of biology including an introduction to biochemistry, cellular biology, physiology, genetics, organisms, and life processes. In addition to reading, students will engage in laboratory activities to develop process and problem solving skills. Students are required to take the NC Biology End of Course Exam.
Physical Science
Prerequisite: Students should have successfully completed or be concurrently enrolled in Math 1
(Chemistry and Physics also meet the state physical science requirement.)
This course is a quantitative study of matter and energy and their interactions. Topics include mechanics, optics, heat, electricity, magnetism, sound, and radiation, as well as a study of the chemical structure and composition of matter. Students will be responsible for conducting laboratory activities and will need to be able to use mathematical formulas and equations to solve problems.
Biology Electives
Advanced Placement Biology
Prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry I
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. Investigations require students to ask questions, make observations and predictions, design experiments, analyze data, and construct arguments in a collaborative setting, where they direct and monitor their progress.
Anatomy and Physiology
Honors Anatomy and Physiology
Prerequisites: Biology I, Chemistry I recommended
(For elective credit only)
This course focuses on the structures and functions of the human body. To help students understand the relationship of anatomical structures, they will participate in animal dissections. Students will use a college-level textbook to supplement class lectures. This is an excellent course for students interested in a health field career.
Physical Science Electives
Physics I/ Honors Physics I
Prerequisite: Students should have completed or be enrolled in Math 2
Through laboratory activities and quantitative analysis, students learn about motion, velocity, forces, acceleration, electricity, wave theory, energy, and light. The honors level is more rigorous with a greater emphasis on problem solving, outside reading, research, and application of concepts to real world problems.
Advanced Placement Physics 1
Prerequisites: Prior coursework in physics is recommended, but not necessary. Students should have completed Math 2 and be concurrently enrolled in Math 3, although it is strongly recommended that students have completed Math 3.
Full Year. AP Physics 1 is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course that explores topics such as: Newtonian mechanics (including rotational motion); work, energy, and power; mechanical waves and sound; and introductory, simple circuits. Through inquiry based learning, students will develop scientific critical thinking and reasoning skills.
Honors Chemistry
Prerequisites: Students must have completed or be enrolled in Math 3
Students study a variety of chemistry topics including chemical equations and reactions, stoichiometry, the periodic table, atomic theory, molecular chemistry, kinetic theory, gas laws, solutions, and acid-base behavior. Students will use their mathematics and problem solving skills to complete laboratory activities.
Advanced Placement Chemistry
Prerequisite: Chemistry I
The AP Chemistry course provides students with a college-level foundation to support future advanced coursework 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. Students will participate in comprehensive laboratory experiences and will need to spend extensive time outside the classroom for individual study.
Earth/Environmental Science Electives
Advanced Placement Environmental Science
Prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry I
The AP Environmental Science 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. This course is interdisciplinary, embracing topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography.
Students earn 1 unit of credit for each successfully completed course.
Honors courses require students to demonstrate greater rigor, manage greater complexity, and move at a faster pace.
Advanced Placement courses are equivalent to college level courses. Students are expected to take the AP Exam.
Required Social Studies Courses
World History/Honors World History
Prerequisite: None
World history is a survey course that gives students the opportunity to explore recurring themes of human experience common to civilizations around the globe from ancient to contemporary times. World history examines the world chronologically and thematically, focusing on the historical development of phenomena, the rise and fall of civilizations and their unique contributions to humanity, and the universal elements these civilizations have in common throughout time. The application of the themes of geography and an analysis of the cultural traits of civilizations help students understand how people shape their world and how their world shapes them. Students broaden their historical perspectives as they explore ways societies have dealt with continuity and change, exemplified by issues such as war and peace, internal stability and strife, and the development of institutions.
American History: The Founding Principles, Civics, and Economics/ Honors American History: The Founding Principles, Civics, and Economics
Prerequisite: None
This course teaches the skills and knowledge necessary to become responsible and effective citizens in an interdependent world. It provides a framework for understanding the basic tenets of American democracy, practices of American government as established by the United States Constitution, basic concepts of American politics and citizenship, and concepts in macro and micro economics and personal finance. The course is organized under three strands – Civics and Government, Personal Financial Literacy and Economics. Students will gain a practical understanding of legal, political, and economic systems that affect their lives as consumers and citizens.
Honors Founding Principals of America and NC: Civic Literacy
Through the study of The Founding Documents of both national and state governments, students examine political, governmental, and legal topics that engage them in examining the legal and political systems of our society and its basic institutions. This course begins with the historical foundations of civil, political, and economic activism that created our nation, state, and local government. Knowledge gained from civics empowers students to become politically active and responsible citizens of the global society.
Economics and Personal Finance/ Honors Economics and Personal Finance
Prerequisite: None
The Economic and Personal Financial Literacy standards are intended to provide students with an understanding of the role economic factors play in making economic decisions, the ability to reason logically about key economic issues and the knowledge and skills needed to manage personal financial resources effectively for lifetime financial security. The economics standards will focus on basic economic concepts and terminology and the roles of business, labor, the government, and the consumer upon the economy. The Personal Finance standards will focus on understanding and managing personal banking, credit cards, loans, home mortgages, accessing and understanding credit reports, and paying for postsecondary education.
Advanced Placement United States History (May be substituted for American History I and II)
Prerequisites: None
This course meets state standards for US History as well as the College Board’s standards for AP US History. It emphasizes using analytical skills and factual knowledge to think critically about the issues and events central to U.S. history. Students will read a variety of historical documents and interpretations of U.S. history, write essay responses to document based questions, and prepare to take the AP Exam.
Advanced Placement World History: Modern
Prerequisite: None
The purpose of the AP World History: Modern course is to develop greater understanding of the evolution of global processes and interactions among different types of human societies beginning in 1200 CE. Students will read a variety of historical documents and interpretations of World History, write essay responses to document based questions, and prepare to take the AP Exam. This course can be substituted for World History.
Social Studies Electives
Advanced Placement European History
Prerequisite: None
This course is equivalent to college level European History from 1450 to the present. It is a reading and writing intensive course that examines the cultural, economic, political, and social developments that played a fundamental role in shaping the world. The course lays the foundation for understanding the development of contemporary institutions, the role of conflict and continuity in present-day society and politics, and the evolution of current forms of artistic expression and intellectual discourse.
Advanced Placement U.S. Government and Politics
Prerequisite: None
This course provides an analytical perspective on government and politics in the United States. It involves both general concepts used to interpret U.S. politics and the analysis of specific case studies. Familiarity with the various institutions, groups, beliefs, and ideas that constitute U.S. political reality is required. Topics include public policy, civil rights and civil liberties, as well as political beliefs and behaviors.
Students earn 1 unit of credit for each successfully completed course.
All courses follow the NC Healthful Living Essential Standards.
All students must successfully pass the required Health and Physical Education course for graduation. If a medical or religious reason will prohibit participation, talk to your principal about a modification.
All students are encouraged to participate in one or more of the elective courses listed below.
Successful completion of Compression Only CPR training/checklist is required for graduation.
Required Health and Physical Education Course
Health and Physical Education
Prerequisite: None
This course combines two required components into one section. Students will be involved in Physical Education and Health Education during the semester. The Physical Education section will incorporate fitness assessments, conditioning, sport fundamentals, and recreational activities. Health Education will enhance the student’s implementation of healthful living practices such as decision making, substance abuse, nutrition, stress management, reproductive health and safety, and more.
Elective Health and Physical Education Courses
Prerequisite for all elective Health and Physical Education Courses: Students must have successfully received credit for the required Health and Physical Education course.
Basic Weight Training
This course is designed for students who desire to improve their overall strength and fitness level but do not participate in a sport. The course will teach safety and technique of all the basic lifts and use various programs adjusted for individual use. Students participate in weight training, strength assessment, aerobic testing, and exercise routines.
Intermediate Weight Training
This course is for students who participate in a junior varsity sport and is designed to develop the fitness level of students to a higher degree in the areas of cardiovascular endurance, strength and flexibility. The course will teach safety and technique of all the basic lifts and use various programs adjusted for individual use. The students will learn a basic understanding of anatomy and physiology. Students participate in weight training, strength assessment, aerobic testing, and exercise routines.
Football Weight Training
This course is for students who participate in a varsity sport and is designed to teach safety while maximizing muscle development through a series of lifts and conditioning. Students will be taught how to develop in the areas of cardiovascular endurance, strength, speed, quickness and flexibility. This course is designed to develop maximum muscular strength. Students participate in a variety of weight lifting routines to build bulk and light sprint work to stay fit. Students will monitor their weight and muscular gains throughout the course.
Advanced Physical Education
This course consists of a combination of team and individual sports with an emphasis on competition, teamwork, skill advancement, and game strategy. Students will be asked to develop written reports on the major sports covered, draw-up tournaments, and help in the officiating of games. This course is also designed to develop the fitness level of the students to a higher degree in the area of personal fitness focusing on cardiovascular endurance, strength and flexibility. Students will be asked to develop and implement a written personal fitness plan. Students will participate in calisthenics, yoga, running, weight training, plyometric activities, and stretching.
SPANISH, FRENCH & CHINESE
Students earn 1 unit of credit for each successfully completed course.
All courses use the NC Essential Standards.
Level I and II are standard courses.
Level III and above are honors courses which require students to demonstrate greater rigor, manage greater complexity, and move at a faster pace.
Advanced Placement courses are designed to provide rigorous intermediate college level world language instruction. Students are required to take the AP Exam.
Courses may be offered at the standard & honors levels.
Prerequisites: For all courses, successful completion of the previous level is required. For example if a student takes Spanish II, he/she must have successfully completed Spanish I. If the student takes Spanish IV Honors, he/she must have successfully completed Spanish III Honors.
Level I World Language Courses
Students are introduced to the target language and its culture. Class activities develop listening, speaking, reading, and writing using the students' experiences to practice these skills. Grammar is integrated throughout the course. Students learn about the target culture through its literature, laws, foods, games, attitudes, values, and patterns of social interaction. Students develop an appreciation for how languages and cultures work by comparing the target language and culture(s) to their own.
Level II World Language Courses
Students further develop their listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. They participate in simple conversational situations and write short paragraphs which narrate, describe, compare and summarize topics from the target culture. By the end of the course, students will be able to interact with others on issues of everyday life. Students also continue to learn about the differences between languages and cultures, and how different cultures influence each other.
Level III World Language Courses (These are honors level courses)
Students' skills with listening, speaking, reading, and writing progress to allow them to participate in conversations, read short literary texts and other material about familiar topics, and write short cohesive passages using the present, past, and future tenses. In discussions, presentations, and written texts, students will be able to identify the main ideas and significant details. As they continue to build their knowledge of the target culture, students develop a deeper understanding of the interrelationships of other cultures to their own and will be able to exhibit behaviors appropriate to the target culture.
DANCE, MUSIC, THEATRE ARTS, VISUAL ARTS
Students at the high school level will have the option of studying an individual arts discipline as an area of interest, or specializing or completing a concentration in studies to prepare them for further education and/or a career in the arts. The Essential Standards communicate what students should know and be able to do as a result of instruction at each proficiency level: beginning, intermediate, proficient, and advanced (9-12).
Students earn 1 unit of credit for each successfully completed course.
All courses use the NC Arts Education Essential Standards.
Students may repeat courses for credit within a given proficiency level.
All Proficient or Advanced courses in each arts discipline receive Honors credit.
Advanced Placement courses are equivalent to college level courses. Students are expected to take the AP exam.
High School Proficiency Levels
Beginning
Standards are for students with no or limited K-8 progression in the arts education discipline (dance, music, theatre arts, or visual arts).
Intermediate
Standards are for students who have had a complete K-8 progression or who have achieved beginning level standards in the discipline at the high school level.
Proficient
Standards are for students who have achieved intermediate level standards in the discipline at the high school level.
Advanced
Standards are for students who have achieved proficient level standards in the discipline at the high school level.
Dance
Dance Beginning
Prerequisite: None
Students study the body in motion by exploring the elements of dance: space, time, and energy. Students develop an awareness of the body as an instrument for self-expression, learn about the benefits of dance for healthful living, and study the role of dance in other cultures and in different historical periods.
Dance Intermediate
Prerequisite: Mastery of Beginning Dance or audition with the teacher
Students focus on developing their dance technique, exploring dance as a performing art, and learning about anatomy as it applies to technique and injury prevention. Group and solo choreographic assignments help students apply their knowledge of dance: its technique, history, and connection to other art forms.
Dance Proficient
Prerequisite: Mastery of Intermediate Dance or audition with the teacher
The emphasis in this class is on technical development and on learning how to combine movements and perform them rhythmically and fluidly using a variety of dynamic qualities. Through more complex choreographic studies and improvisation, students learn to construct expressive phrases and combine them to create short dances. This course focuses on more advanced techniques, building choreography, and the study of dance history. This is an honors level course.
Dance Advanced
Prerequisite: Mastery of Proficient Dance or audition with the teacher
This course continues to focus on technique, improvisation, and choreography. Students study dance history, learn to describe, analyze, and critique dance works from different cultures and times. Dance research focuses on how dance reflects the culture and time period in which they originate. Students will study 20th Century dance by exploring traditional approaches to choreography and interdisciplinary dance works using media technology. Students are becoming dance artists: performers and choreographers. They will create solo and group choreographic works that include costuming, production, and lighting.Teachers will assist students with audition videos, as needed for application to dance schools or departments. This is an honors level course.
Vocal Music
Vocal Music Beginning
Prerequisite: None, but students may sing for the instructor to ensure correct placement
In these courses students will sing songs from today's popular music as well as songs from other times and other cultures. Students will develop skills with music reading and ear training as they learn to listen critically to music and evaluate its significance.
Vocal Music Intermediate
Prerequisite: Mastery of Beginning Vocal Music or audition with the teacher
This course continues to build on the comprehensive music education program introduced in Beginning Vocal Music. Students broaden their knowledge of different musical genres and will have opportunities to perform alone and in ensembles.
Vocal Music Proficient
Prerequisite: Mastery of Intermediate Vocal Music or audition with the teacher
This course is for students who want to improve their vocal technique and increase their knowledge of music. Students will perform music of varying degrees of difficulty and work to improve accuracy in sight singing. Singers may perform alone and in ensembles. This is an honors level course.
Vocal Music Advanced
Prerequisite: Mastery of Proficient Vocal Music or audition with teacher
In this course, students refine their musical skills through the rigorous study of music theory, history, appreciation, and analysis. Students will improve their vocal technique, accuracy with sight singing, and ability to perform solo and ensemble music. In addition to class work, students will attend musical events, complete special projects, and write reports. This is an honors level course.
Orchestra
Strings- Beginning
Strings - Intermediate
Strings - Proficient (Honors Level)
Strings - Advanced (Honors Level)
Prerequisites: For Beginning – Depending on the school, from 0- 2 years of prior experience playing the violin, viola, cello or bass; For the other levels - Mastery of the preceding course and audition with the teacher
This full-year class is for students who play violin, viola, cello or bass and is an extension of the middle school Orchestra Program. String players will continue to build their ensemble skills as they learn a variety of music in both classical and bluegrass/folk styles. Orchestra students are expected to participate in Fall, Winter and Spring Concerts and will have the opportunity to meet and work with guest artists from around our region. They are also eligible to audition for All-County clinics, Solo & Ensemble and other adjudicated events during the school year. Beginners are welcome with the understanding that they will need to take lessons outside of the school day to catch up with their peers. Instruments can be provided for families in need. Proficient and Advanced students will perform as members of one or more chamber ensembles and as soloists.
Band
Concert Band- Beginning
Concert Band- Intermediate
Concert Band- Proficient (Honors Level)
Concert Band- Advanced (Honors Level)
Prerequisites: For Beginning - Three years of band or audition with band director;
For the other levels - Mastery of the preceding course and audition with the band director
The Concert Band courses focus on developing skills with music performance, reading, and notating as well as listening, analyzing, and evaluating diverse musical styles. The level of discipline, responsibility, and difficulty all increase as students’ progress in proficiency levels. Extracurricular opportunities may include jazz band, pep band, district/state level honors band, chamber ensembles, and solo recitals.
Marching Band- Beginning
Marching Band- Intermediate
Marching Band- Proficient (Honors Level)
Marching Band- Advanced (Honors Level)
Prerequisites: For Beginning - Ability to play a band instrument and audition with the band director;
For the other levels - Mastery of the preceding course and audition with the band director
The Marching Band courses focus on developing skills with music performance, reading, and notating as well as listening, analyzing, and evaluating diverse musical styles. As students develop their technical skills, they will have opportunities to compose, arrange, and improvise. The level of discipline, responsibility, and difficulty all increase as students progress in proficiency levels. Extracurricular opportunities may include jazz band, pep band, district/state level honors band, chamber ensembles, and solo recitals.
Wind Ensemble- Beginning
Wind Ensemble - Intermediate
Wind Ensemble - Proficient (Honors Level)
Wind Ensemble - Advanced (Honors Level)
Prerequisites: For Beginning - Ability to play a band instrument and audition with the band director;
For the other levels - Mastery of the preceding course and audition with the band director
The Wind Ensemble courses focus on developing skills with music performance, reading, notating, listening, analyzing, and evaluating diverse musical styles. As students develop their technical skills, they will have opportunities to compose, arrange, and improvise. The level of discipline, responsibility, and difficulty all increase as students progress in proficiency levels. Extracurricular opportunities may include jazz band, pep band, district/state level honors band, chamber ensembles, and solo recitals.
Fine Arts Electives- Music Specialization
Music Specialization Beginning : Marching Band: Fall (12 Weeks)
Prerequisite: This course is for students with band/instrument experience at the middle school or high school level
This class will meet after school three days a week (days to be determined) for 105 minutes. Students will receive 1/2 a credit for this semester class. Class members will perform in the Marching Band. Performances include all home football games, two or three away games, plus playoff games. Students will also perform at marching competitions and parades. Since this course meets three days a week, attendance is mandatory at all rehearsals. Mandatory band camp is held for one week prior to the start of the school year.
Music Specialization Beginning : Color Guard
Prerequisite: Audition is required
Color Guard is a performance group and a unit of the Marching Band. Membership is by audition only. Auditions are held in the spring for the upcoming year.
COURSE NOTE: Audition is required for membership of Color Guard. Color Guard meets for one week of band camp during the summer and class meets after school in the fall semester.
Theatre Arts
Theatre Arts Beginning
Prerequisite: None
Students will experience creative dramatics, mime, reader's theater, interpretive movement, and oral interpretation as they explore the actor's craft. In addition, they will learn how directing, theatre history, and theatre management contribute to a stage production. Behind the scenes, students explore how costumes, make-up, props, and scenery along with special effects, lighting, and sound bring magic to the stage.
Theatre Arts Intermediate
Prerequisite: Mastery of Beginning Theatre Arts or audition with the teacher.
This course further develops the skills and vocabulary learned in Beginning Theatre. Through classroom scene work and the study of acting techniques in different historical periods, students will refine their acting skills. Participating in ensemble acting and student directed plays will provide additional opportunities to portray a variety of roles. Students will learn how to critique their own and others' performances and will continue learning about technical theatre and theatre management. They will perform scene work and original work.
Theatre Arts Proficient
Prerequisites: Mastery of Intermediate Theatre Arts, classification as a junior or a senior, or placement audition with the instructor
The focus of this class is on learning how to direct. Once students select their scene, they will analyze the script, audition actors from among their classmates, plan rehearsals, make decisions about blocking, and develop a plan for set and lighting design. Each student-directed scene will be showcased for a live audience. This course involves in-depth application of theater arts knowledge, skills, and processes. Students will study a variety of playwrights and different historical periods. This is an honors level course.
Visual Arts
Visual Arts Beginning
Prerequisite: None
Students will experience 2D media, such as drawing, painting, and design, and basic 3D media. Using the elements of art and principles of design, they will complete technique assignments and create their own work. Students will learn to analyze visual images, critique their own artwork and the artwork of others, and write short essays about a variety of visual art topics while studying the basics of Art History.
Visual Arts Intermediate
Prerequisite: Mastery of Beginning Visual Arts
Students will learn to use more sophisticated techniques as they complete projects using 2D and 3D media. Assigned projects will develop the students' artistic problem solving abilities and call upon them to use their use their design skills with greater inventiveness. Written work focuses on art criticism, topics in art history, and aesthetic awareness.
Visual Arts Proficient
Prerequisite: Mastery of Intermediate Visual Arts
Students will begin building a portfolio of their work using a variety of media. In building a portfolio students create work that demonstrates their increasing command of the elements of art and design principles and conveys a clear sense of their developing personal style. Students will continue their study of art appreciation, criticism, and aesthetics. Students will also study individual artists with the goal of analyzing how they reflect the historical conditions and arts trends of their time. This course is an honors level course.
Visual Arts Advanced
Prerequisite: Mastery of Proficient Visual Arts
Students will work to assemble a high quality portfolio suitable for submission as part of an art school application. Students will refine their artistic problem solving skills using a variety of media and techniques as they create 20 high quality works by the end of the class. Students will also continue their study of contemporary art and should expect to spend time outside of class working on their portfolios and completing written assignments. This course is an honors level course.
Visual Arts Specialization- Photography
Prerequisite: Mastery of Beginning Visual Arts
This course introduces students to photography as an important art form, from its beginnings in the 1800’s to today. Students will learn how to use 35mm cameras, develop film, and make prints using traditional black and white darkroom techniques. Students will also use digital photography and software programs that enhance the art.
AP Studio Art Drawing
Prerequisite: Although there is no prerequisite for AP Studio Art, prior experiences in studio art courses that address conceptual, technical, and critical thinking skills
The AP Studio Art portfolios are designed for students who are seriously interested in the practical experience of art. Students submit portfolios for evaluation at the end of the school year. AP Studio Art students create a portfolio of work to demonstrate the artistic skills and ideas they have developed, refined, and applied over the course of the year to produce visual compositions.
Students earn 1 unit of credit for each successfully completed course.
JROTC programs are designed for students in grades 9-12 and may be taken for 4 years.
Students receive regulation military uniforms free of charge. Uniforms must be worn once each week and for military functions.
Each school serves a specialized branch of the armed services which may require its own unique set of standards.
NO MILITARY SERVICE OBLIGATION RESULTS FROM JROTC PARTICIPATION.
Naval JROTC- North Buncombe High School
The purpose of the Naval Junior Reserve Officer Training Corps (NJROTC) is to introduce students to the precepts of leadership, and instill the value of goals and plans for the future. It also develops a sound appreciation to the heritage and traditions of America with emphasis on the role of the sea services in our military traditions. It includes info on the organization and mission of the United States Navy, military in general, drill, ceremonies, uniform regulations, physical fitness, orienteering (Land Navigation), principles of health, first aid and survival.
Mission of Program
Instill Self-Discipline
Develop Informed And Responsible Citizens
Promote Patriotism
Promote Habits Or Orderliness And Precision And Develop Respect For Constituted Authority
Develop a High Degree Of Personal Honor, Self-Reliance, And Leadership
Promote An Understanding Of The Basic Elements And Requirements for National Security
Promote An Understanding Of The Basic Elements And Requirements for Constituted Authority In A Democratic Society
Navy JROTC I
Prerequisite: None
This course is designed to introduce students to the precepts of citizenship, the elements of leadership, and the value of scholarship in attaining life goals. It also develops a sound appreciation for the heritage and traditions of America with emphasis on the role of the sea services in our military traditions. It includes information on the organization and mission of the Navy and Marine Corps, military drill and ceremonies, uniform regulations, physical fitness, orienteering, principles of health, first aid, and survival.
Navy JROTC II
Prerequisite: JROTC I
This course is designed to develop a sound appreciation for the heritage and traditions of American and the historically significant role of sea power in America’s future. Each cadet will foster a growing sense of pride in the program, their associates and self. In addition to a section devoted to leadership the course is divided into sections on Maritime History from early western civilization to the present, and Nautical Sciences which include maritime geography, oceanography, meteorology, and astronomy.
Navy JROTC III Honors
Prerequisite: JROTC II
This course is designed to further develop the understanding and importance of sea power and national security. The course has a section on Naval knowledge that includes sea power and national security, naval operations and support functions, military justice, and international law of the sea, and a section on Naval skills including shipboard damage control, deck seamanship, navigation, international rules of the road, maneuvering board and naval weapons. Leadership is
re-emphasized through discussion and study.
Navy JROTC IV/IV Honors*
Prerequisite: JROTC III
This is the capstone course on leadership. The course builds on the qualities of good followers and effective leaders provided in Naval Science I, II, and III. It takes an in-depth look at leadership and how to maximize skills through a series of video case studies where leadership characteristics are observed and discussed. Finally, Cultural Studies are examined with an emphasis on the Middle East.
*Honors statement: In addition to the ROTC IV curriculum, this class focuses on improving writing and communication skills with discussions on the ethics of decisions made by leaders.
Navy JROTC Staff Procedures
Prerequisite: Junior/Senior and approval by Senior Naval Sciences Instructor (SSNI)
Co-requisite: Concurrent enrollment in NJROTC II, III or IV for the school year
This course develops skills in applied leadership, administrative functions and procedures, supply functions and procedures, and applied communications techniques. Basic computer skills are required. Students in this class ensure the company runs smoothly and efficiently.
Navy JROTC Drill Team
Prerequisite: Teacher recommendation, prior JROTC course and concurrent enrollment in any JROTC class for the school year.
This course covers the basic drill and ceremonies from individual drill through battalion level drill. Cadets who take this course are required to participate in approximately six (6) drill meets throughout the school year. These meets are usually conducted on Saturdays. Additional uniforms are provided at no expense to the cadet.
Students earn 1 unit of elective credit for each successfully completed course.
ESL courses help students whose native language is not English. ESL courses provide language support with the goal of preparing students to succeed in regular education courses. Students should consult with their counselor to determine course placement
ESL Beginning
Prerequisite: To enroll in this course a student’s cumulative English Language proficiency score (as indicated by the WIDA screener or ACCESS) is between 1.0 and 2.0 and within the first or second year in U.S. schools or by ESL teacher recommendation.
This course begins with building basic interpersonal communication skills and provides cultural awareness and other support to help students acclimate to the academic rigor demands of Buncombe County Schools. Students will build their English language proficiency through interactive activities that engage all language skills (speaking, listening, reading and writing) and academic language within the English Language Development Standards (Language of Social and Instructional, Language of Language Arts, Language of Mathematics, Language of Science, Language of Social Studies).
Students may take this course for one or two semesters.
ESL Developing
Prerequisite: To enroll in this course a student’s cumulative English Language proficiency score (as indicated by the WIDA screener or ACCESS) is between 2.0 and 3.5 or by ESL teacher recommendation.
This course is designed to teach English Learners at the Beginning and Developing English language proficiency levels. The emphasis of this course is on developing fluency and more sustained, complex oral and written communication. Students continue to expand their vocabulary and acquire greater precision in the use of grammatical forms. Students hone their academic literacy skills for comprehension and effective writing by reading and responding to literary and expository texts. Student learning will be guided by the English Language Arts standards and the English Language Development Standards (Language of Social and Instructional, Language of Language Arts, Language of Mathematics, Language of Science, Language of Social Studies).
Broadcast Journalism I Honors & II Honors
Prerequisite: None
As a member of the broadcast staff, students learn the aspects of producing a school newscast. This may include researching stories, interviews, camera-work and other technical responsibilities. Please see the school instructor for more details.
Yearbook I
Prerequisite: None
As a member of the Yearbook staff, students learn to write and edit copy and captions, design layouts, take pictures, and develop themes. They will learn to use software programs for layout and design.
Yearbook II/III/ IV
Prerequisite: Yearbook I, II, or III
As members of the Yearbook production staff, students learn leadership and develop high-level skills in copywriting and editing, layout design, journalistic photography, marketing, and advanced desktop publishing. Students design specific yearbook pages and are graded on the product.
Yearbook III/IV Honors
Prerequisites: Yearbook II or III (After-school time is required.)
Students take full responsibility for the leadership aspect of publishing the school’s yearbook including copy writing, layout design, and editing, journalistic photography, advanced desktop publishing, business planning, advertising, marketing, and distribution of the book.
CTE Advanced Studies
Prerequisite: Two technical credits in one Career Cluster
This culminating course is for juniors and seniors who have earned two technical credits, one of which is a completer course, in one Career Cluster. The Advanced Studies course must augment the content of the completer course and prepare students for success in transitioning to postsecondary education and future careers. Students work under the guidance of a teacher with expertise in the content of the completer course in collaboration with community members, business representatives, and other school-based personnel. The four parts of the course include writing a research paper, producing a product, developing a portfolio, and delivering a presentation. Students demonstrate their abilities to use 21st century skills. Competitive events, community service, and leadership activities provide the opportunity to apply essential standards and workplace readiness skills through authentic experiences.
CTE Internship
A CTE Internship allows for additional development of career and technical competencies within a general career field. Internships allow students to observe and participate in daily operations, develop direct contact with job personnel, ask questions about particular careers, and perform certain job tasks. This activity is exploratory and allows the student to get hands-on experience in a number of related activities. The teacher, student, and the business community jointly plan the organization, implementation, and evaluation of an internship, regardless of whether it is an unpaid or paid internship. (Information can be found on school websites and by contacting your school’s Career Development Coordinator)
Law, Public Safety, Corrections & Security
These are AB Tech Courses. Student must have an unweighted GPA of 2.8+ and completed AB Tech application.
CJC-112 / CJC 113/ CJC 131
CJC-112 - This course introduces deviant behavior as it relates to criminal activity. Topics include theories of crime causation; statistical analysis of criminal behavior; past, present, and future social control initiatives; and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to explain and discuss various theories of crime causation and societal response.
CJC-113 -This course covers the juvenile justice system and related juvenile issues. Topics include an overview of the juvenile justice system, treatment and prevention programs, special areas and laws unique to juveniles, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to identify/discuss juvenile court structure/procedures, function and jurisdiction of juvenile agencies, processing/detention of juveniles, and case disposition.
CJC-131-This course covers the history/evolution/principles and contemporary applications of criminal law. Topics include sources of substantive law, classification of crimes, parties to crime, elements of crimes, matters of criminal responsibility, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to discuss the sources of law and identify, interpret, and apply the appropriate statutes/elements. There will be an emphasis on North Carolina law.
CJC-122 / CJC 212/ CJC 231
CJC-122- This course covers the historical, philosophical, and practical dimensions of community policing. Emphasis is placed on the empowerment of police and the community to find solutions to problems by forming partnerships. Upon completion, students should be able to define community policing, describe how community policing strategies solve problems and compare community policing to traditional policing.
CJC- 212 - This course covers ethical considerations and accepted standards applicable to criminal justice organizations and professionals. Topics include ethical systems; social change, values, and norms; cultural diversity; citizen involvement in criminal justice issues; and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate the ability to apply ethical considerations to the decision-making process in identifiable criminal justice situations.
CJC-231- The course covers the impact of the Constitution of the United States and its amendments to the criminal justice system. Topics include the structure of the Constitution and its amendments, court decisions pertinent to contemporary criminal justice issues, and other related topics. Upon completion, students should be able to identify/discuss the basic structure of the United States Constitution and the rights/procedures as interpreted by the courts.
NCVPS Placeholders (North Carolina Virtual Public Schools)
North Carolina Virtual Public Schools (NCVPS) awards high school course credits to students who successfully complete online core courses, Advanced Placement courses, and/or honors courses. Students may use NCVPS online courses to meet high school graduation requirements or enhance transcripts for college applications. Students should meet with their high school’s online course advisor to enroll in an NCVPS online high school course and have the course added to their schedule. NCVPS Distance Learning Advisors (DLA) at the school will complete the registration process. For additional information regarding NCVPS, visit http://www.ncvps.org/.
MUST MEET WITH YOUR COUNSELOR & HAVE PRINCIPAL APPROVAL
CLICK HERE TO VIEW NCPVS ONLINE HIGH SCHOOL COURSES
AB Tech Placeholder
Student must have an unweighted GPA of 2.8+ and completed AB Tech application.
Certain AB Tech courses or course combinations can count towards high school graduation requirements, but must be taken as part of an approved graduation plan developed with the school. A list of AB Tech courses can be found here. Speak with your counselor for more information.
