Prerequisite(s): None 

English language arts and reading embody the interconnected nature of listening, speaking, reading, writing, and thinking through the seven integrated strands of developing and sustaining foundational language skills; comprehension; response; multiple genres; author's purpose and craft; composition; and inquiry and research. The strands focus on academic oracy (proficiency in oral expression and comprehension), authentic reading, and reflective writing. The strands are integrated and progressive with students continuing to develop knowledge and skills with increased complexity and nuance in order to think critically and adapt to the ever-evolving nature of language and literacy.

Prerequisite(s): None 

This course will explore the same topics as English 1 with more depth and complexity. 

Advanced Course: Carefully review the Advanced Course Commitment guidelines before selecting this course.

Prerequisite(s): Grade 8 Mathematics, or its equivalent 

Students will build on the knowledge and skills of 6-8 mathematics which provided a foundation in linear relationships, number and operations, and proportionality. Students will study linear, quadratic and exponential functions and make connections among the functions in both mathematical and real-world scenarios. Students will generate and solve linear systems with two equations and two variables and will create new functions through transformations. Students will use technology to collect and explore data and analyze statistical relationships. Students will also study polynomials of degree one and two, radical expressions, sequences and laws of exponents.

Prerequisite(s): Grade 8 Mathematics, or its equivalent 

This course will explore the same topics as Algebra 1 with more depth and complexity. Counselor recommendation is recommended. 

Advanced Course: Carefully review the Advanced Course Commitment guidelines before selecting this course.

Prerequisite(s): Algebra 1 

Students will strengthen their mathematical reasoning skills in geometric contexts. Within the course, students will begin to focus on more precise terminology, symbolic representations, and the development of proofs. Students will explore concepts covering coordinate and transformational geometry; logical argument and constructions; congruence; similarity, trigonometry; two- and three-dimensional figures; circles; and probability. Due to the emphasis of probability and statistics in the college and career readiness standards, standards dealing with probability have been added to the geometry curriculum to ensure students have proper exposure to these topics before pursuing their post-secondary education.

Prerequisite(s): Algebra 1 

This course will explore the same topics as Geometry with more depth and complexity. 

Advanced Course: Carefully review the Advanced Course Commitment guidelines before selecting this course.

Prerequisite(s): Algebra 1; Recommended: Geometry 

In Algebra 2, students will broaden their knowledge of quadratic functions, exponential functions, and systems of equations. Students will study logarithmic, square root, cubic, cube root, absolute value, rational functions and their related equations. Students will connect functions to their inverses and associated equations and solutions in both mathematical and real-world situations. In addition, students will extend their knowledge of data analysis and numeric and algebraic methods. Algebra 2 is a course required by most major universities.

Prerequisite(s): Algebra 1; Recommended: Geometry 

This course will explore the same topics as Algebra 2 with more depth and complexity. 

Advanced Course: Carefully review the Advanced Course Commitment guidelines before selecting this course.

Prerequisite(s): None 

In Biology, students conduct laboratory and field investigations, use scientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisions using critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students in Biology study a variety of topics that include: structures and functions of cells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues, and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; biological evolution; taxonomy; metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems; homeostasis; and ecosystems and the environment. 

Prerequisite(s): None 

This course is highly recommended as a prerequisite for those students who plan on taking AP Biology and the AP exam as Juniors or Seniors. This course will explore the same topics as core Biology with more depth and complexity. Laboratory work, including dissections, collections, and student-designed experiments is required. 

Advanced Course: Carefully review the Advanced Course Commitment guidelines before selecting this course. 

Prerequisite(s): None 

In World Geography Studies, students examine people, places, and environments at local, regional, national, and international scales from the spatial and ecological perspectives of geography. Students describe the influence of geography on events of the past and present with emphasis on contemporary issues. A significant portion of the course centers around the physical processes that shape patterns in the physical environment; the characteristics of major landforms, climates, and ecosystems and their interrelationships; the political, economic, and social processes that shape cultural patterns of regions; types and patterns of settlement; the distribution and movement of the world population; relationships among people, places, and environments; and the concept of region. Students analyze how location affects economic activities in different economic systems. Students identify the processes that influence political divisions of the planet and analyze how different points of view affect the development of public policies. Students compare how components of culture shape the characteristics of regions and analyze the impact of technology and human modifications on the physical environment. Students use problem-solving and decision-making skills to ask and answer geographic questions.

Prerequisite(s): None 

The AP Human Geography course is equivalent to an introductory college-level course in human geography. The course introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth's surface. Students employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine socioeconomic organization and its environmental consequences. They also learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications. This course counts as World Geography credit. For more information visit www.apcentral.collegeboard.org 

Advanced Placement Course: Carefully review the Advanced Course Commitment guidelines before selecting this course. 

Prerequisite(s): None 

The basic purpose of this course is to motivate students to strive for lifetime personal fitness with an emphasis on the health-related components of physical fitness. The knowledge and skills taught in this course include teaching students about the process of becoming fit as well as achieving some degree of fitness within the class. The concept of wellness, or striving to reach optimal levels of health, is the corner stone of this course and is exemplified by one of the course objectives-students designing their own personal fitness program.

Prerequisite(s): Must get a physical and complete RankOne paperwork within 2 weeks of school starting. 

This course prepares individuals for the physical and technical skills required for healthy or competitive weightlifting. Participants work on fundamental technique, strength, agility and endurance daily. Participants will develop proper lifting techniques, as well as learn the rules, regulations, and terminology associated with the sport.

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

Participants prepare for one of the five teams competing in scheduled UIL competition, which lasts from August through the end of November or December. During the off-season, students participate in weight training and movement activities that prepare them for all athletic activities. The off-season program and spring football practices are prerequisite for participation in the fall season for students who are enrolled in GISD, unless a student is enrolled in a different athletic period. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

Tryouts will be held in August. Participants who are selected for one of four competitive teams will be placed in the class. Participants work to develop fundamentals in passing, serving, spiking, blocking, team chemistry, digging, and offensive/defensive techniques. Participants will also learn the rules, regulations and terminology associated with the sport. The competitive season runs from August through November. In the spring, the off-season will focus on conditioning, weight training, plyometrics, and individual and team fundamentals. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements, be placed in the program by written approval of the head baseball coach, and have above average skills 

This is not a course for players with little baseball ability. Students who are approved for this course are expected to try out for the junior varsity or varsity baseball teams in the spring. An aggressive approach is taken in all phases of team play through advanced conditioning, hitting techniques, and defensive situations. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

Basketball is taught in two parts with the first part taking place before and after the basketball season. First, the basic fundamentals of basketball are taught - shooting, passing, dribbling, rebounding, and defense. Special individual skill attainment is emphasized at this time. A secondary program of conditioning, consisting of weightlifting, running and other exercises that will benefit and strengthen the individual is implemented. The second phase (during the basketball season) places emphasis on competitive team play. Team offense and defense, as well as strategy and specific situation work, are emphasized. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

This course prepares students for competitive running. Participants work on endurance, speed, and strength. Participants also learn the importance of monitoring the heart rate and good nutrition. The competitive season begins in August and lasts through November. The off-season focuses on weights, agility, and long distance running. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at the recommendation of the coach 

Golf students receive intermediate or advanced instruction. The intermediate instruction includes a review of basic techniques and strategies. The advanced training stresses team play, as well as advanced strategies and specific situation play. Golf will be offered both fall and spring semesters. 

Prerequisite(s): Mandatory tryouts required 

Cheerleaders are selected based upon judging during tryouts. Each member of the cheer squad will be scheduled in a class period for the fall and spring semester. The course will provide opportunities for individuals to develop skills, techniques, and conditioning necessary to be a successful cheerleader. Various team building strategies will be implemented. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

This course will develop all participants to reach the physical fitness needed to participate in competitive soccer. The first semester covers physical training, fundamentals, as well as tactical and competitive play. The second semester will continue as the first semester until the competitive season is over. Soccer season begins in January and ends in March. Off-season will consist of strength training as well as a series of soccer competitions. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

This course prepares girls for competitive fast pitch softball. Participants work to develop all phases of the game including advanced conditioning, hitting, defensive fundamentals and technique. The fall focuses on conditioning, fundamentals, technique, and strategy. Softball season begins in February and lasts through May. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

Students who participate in swimming must be able to compete at a varsity level and be able to perform all four competitive strokes. Practices will begin after the first week of school. Tryouts for the team will be two weeks after the school year begins. The top 19 swimmers (both girls and boys) will remain on the team. The first three weeks concentration will be stroke mechanics and turns. As the season continues the team will begin conditioning and swim 5,000-7,000 yards per day. The competitive season begins in October and ends in February. During the off-season we will continue to swim and cross train and participate in meets in March and in April. Practices will be during the period and continue after school. Students must provide their own transportation home. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

Students enrolled for competitive tennis already have a basic understanding of the rules and at least average skill development. These levels of tennis instruction are designed to enhance a student's current skill level, with emphasis on technique and strategy, through complex drills. Team members are expected to display their expertise as they participate in tournaments. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

Students receive extensive training in the development of track and field techniques. During the first semester work is concentrated on the development of long distance running. Cross-Country meets are held on Saturday and all students are expected to attend these meets. Cross Country and Track and Field will field three teams: Varsity, Junior Varsity, and Freshmen. Training continues in the second semester in preparation for spring track and field competition. Students may participate on one of three teams: Varsity, Junior Varsity, or Freshmen. 

Prerequisite(s): Must meet all UIL requirements and be placed in the program at recommendation of the coach 

This course prepares individuals for the physical and technical skills required for competitive collegiate wrestling. Participants work on fundamental technique, strength, agility and endurance daily. Participants will develop grappling skills, as well as learn the rules, regulations, and terminology associated with the sport. The first semester focuses on preparing individuals for the competitive season which runs from November to February. The second semester focuses on strength and conditioning. 

Prerequisite(s): Athletic Trainer Approval Only 

This course provides an opportunity for the study and application of the components of sports medicine including but not limited to: sports medicine related careers, organizational and administrative considerations, prevention of athletic injuries, recognition, evaluation, and immediate care of athletic injuries, rehabilitation and management skills, taping and wrapping techniques, first aid/CPR/AED, emergency procedures, nutrition, sports psychology, human anatomy and physiology, therapeutic modalities, and therapeutic exercise. This course will require outside-of-class time and involve working with athletes and athletic teams. 

Prerequisite(s): None 

Corequisite(s): PE Substitution Dance 

Dance I is a course designed to introduce the student to the fundamentals of dance. This class will include basic dance technique and history in genres such as ballet, modern, jazz, social, folk and choreography. Fall and/or spring after school rehearsals and recital participation is required. Course expectations include specific skills acquired in "Foundations of Personal Fitness". Students are required to provide some supplies and pay a materials fee of up to $30. 

Beginning in the 2020-2021 school year, students enrolled in Dance 1 Color Guard will be co-enrolled in PESUBD (PE Substitution Dance) and will also receive 1 credit of PE. 

Prerequisite(s): Enrollment in a band class the previous year or instructor approval 

Corequisite(s): PE Substitution Marching Band 

This full year course continues the development of performance techniques, music reading skills, listening skills, music theory knowledge and music history exposure developed in previous band classes. Students enrolled in Band 1 will develop self-discipline, problem-solving skills, leadership skills, time-management skills and continually work with peers as part of a musical performance team. Students will be placed into a particular band class or section based upon ability demonstrated by audition. All students enrolled in Band 1 - regardless of the particular band class - are required to participate in marching band during the first semester. Students will be expected to provide supplies and there are certain fees connected to the course. 

Beginning in the 2020-2021 school year, students enrolled in Band 1 will be co-enrolled in PESUBMB (PE Substitution Marching Band) and will receive 1 credit of PE in addition to the fine arts credit. 

Prerequisite(s): None 

The purpose of this course is to introduce students to the precepts of citizenship, the elements of leadership and the value of scholarship in attaining life's goals. This course is also designed to engender a sound appreciation for the heritage and traditions of America, with recognition that the role of sea power will be important in America's future. The course also provides instruction on military drill and ceremonies, uniform regulations, physical fitness, orienteering, principles of health, first aid and survival. All concepts are covered at a fundamental level. 

Program Introduction Video

Prerequisite(s): None 

The Peer Buddy Program is designed to allow selected students to serve as tutors and advocates for students with disabilities. Peer Buddies will receive training on how to instruct peers with special challenges in various activities. Tutors will be required to keep a daily log, which summarizes their daily work with students. Tutors will be required to complete readings and short reports designed to increase awareness of the nature and problems associated with various disabling conditions. As advocates, tutors will be expected to set the example for others that people with disabilities need the same consideration and respect as their non- disabled peers. Periodic meetings, before and/or after school, will be necessary to facilitate the success of the Peer Buddy program. A commitment from all parties will provide a productive and enriching experience for all involved. The experience and growth will be valuable for a lifetime.

While acting as effective peer tutors and role models in this reverse inclusion class, students will focus on developing competencies in either individual or team sports that can be incorporated into a physically active lifestyle beyond high school, Students are provided with the opportunity for hands-on experience in the teaching process working with individuals who have diverse abilities in an adaptive physical education class.  Students submit a completed application form to the counselor who will then get the applications to the campus Adapted PE (APE) teacher for approval. Students who meet eligibility for APE services are not eligible for this course.

Prerequisite(s): None 

Art I is a beginning art class covering perception, creative expression, art history, and aesthetic judgment. Student-created artwork will demonstrate, compare, and contrast the Elements of Art. Students will demonstrate proper use of various art media, compare and contrast different art styles and trends throughout history and apply aesthetic judgment in evaluating artwork. Students may need to provide some supplies. 

Course specialties after taking Art 1 include:

• Drawing

• Painting

• Digital Art & Media

• Ceramics

• Sculpture

• Photography

Prerequisite(s): None (Course satisfies fine arts graduation requirement) 

Floral Design is designed to develop students' ability to identify and demonstrate the principles and techniques related to floral design as well as develop an understanding of the management of floral 50 enterprises. Through the analysis of artistic floral styles and historical periods, students will develop respect for the traditions and contributions of diverse cultures. Students will respond to and analyze floral designs, thus contributing to the development of lifelong skills of making informed judgments and evaluations. To prepare for careers in floral design, students must attain academic skills and knowledge, acquire technical knowledge and skills related to horticultural systems, and develop knowledge and skills regarding career opportunities, entry requirements, and industry expectations. To prepare for success, students need opportunities to learn, reinforce, apply, and transfer their knowledge and skills and technologies in a variety of settings. 

Prerequisite(s): None 

Theatre I is a full year course designed to introduce the student to theatre. The class will include theatre terminology, mime, improvisation, characterization, movement, voice and diction, scene study, performance, and some elements of technical theatre. Students are required to attend and analyze live theatrical events held outside of regular school hours. 

Prerequisite(s): Theatre 1 (previous or concurrent) or teacher recommendation 

This is a full year course in which students are introduced to the practice and design of theatrical sets, scenery, lighting, sound, costumes, properties and makeup. Students will gain training in stage management and stage crew work. All students are required to fulfill minimum work hours outside of the school day and write a review of a live theatrical performance seen during each grading cycle. Additionally, students may work as crew members for the annual musical and the UIL One-Act Play Festival. Students will be expected to paint, move heavy/dirty equipment, work with power tools, and work with hot electrical equipment. Students must exhibit a healthy respect for the safety of themselves and those near them. 

Recommended prerequisite: Courses in two of the following disciplines: theatre, dance, or music or by audition. 

Musical Theatre will expose students to a wide range of on-stage performance disciplines, including acting performance, vocal performance, and dance performance. The course will also provide an atmosphere in which students benefit from a teaching and learning experience in these performance disciplines of musical theatre. Students will receive comprehensive and rigorous instruction so that they may make informed choices about the craft, college, and the profession. The course will enhance and cultivate the creative gifts of each student while encouraging a sense of self-confidence. The course will enable students to study and perform the varied styles of musical theatre with special attention to the principles of stage movement, stage vocal technique, stage choreography, acting, characterization, and other aspects of a musical production 

Prerequisite(s): None 

This full-year course continues the development of singing - performance technique, music reading skills, listening skills, music theory knowledge and music history exposure previously developed in middle school choir. Students enrolled in Choir 1 will develop greater self-discipline, problem-solving skills, leadership skills, time-management skills and continually work with peers as part of a musical performance team. Students will be placed into a particular choir class or section based upon ability demonstrated by audition. All students enrolled in Choir 1 - regardless of the particular choir class - are required to participate in curricular events and will be asked to participate in some outside-of-the-school-day extra-curricular events. Students will be expected to provide supplies and there are certain fees connected to the course. 

Prerequisite(s): Middle School Orchestra, Instructor Approval or previous private instruction required 

Orchestra is for experienced musicians desiring to improve musical performance skills on string instruments while performing orchestral repertoire. Students will audition and be placed into a particular orchestra class based on skill level and instrumentation needs. Students in Orchestra are provided with multiple opportunities for individual achievement through extra-curricular auditions and competitions. Attendance at rehearsals and performances outside of normal school hours is required. Students will be expected to provide supplies and there are certain fees connected to the course. 

Prerequisite(s): Audition placement. 

This course is designed for students with little to no prior experience on a string instrument. 

Prerequisite(s): None 

Corequisite(s): PE Substitution Dance 

Dance I is a course designed to introduce the student to the fundamentals of dance. This class will include basic dance technique and history in genres such as ballet, modern, jazz, social, folk and choreography. Fall and/or spring after school rehearsals and recital participation is required. Course expectations include specific skills acquired in "Foundations of Personal Fitness". Students are required to provide some supplies and pay a materials fee of up to $30. 

Beginning in the 2020-2021 school year, students enrolled in Dance 1 Color Guard will be co-enrolled in PESUBD (PE Substitution Dance) and will also receive 1 credit of PE. 

Prerequisite(s): Enrollment in a band class the previous year or instructor approval 

Corequisite(s): PE Substitution Marching Band 

This full year course continues the development of performance techniques, music reading skills, listening skills, music theory knowledge and music history exposure developed in previous band classes. Students enrolled in Band 1 will develop self-discipline, problem-solving skills, leadership skills, time-management skills and continually work with peers as part of a musical performance team. Students will be placed into a particular band class or section based upon ability demonstrated by audition. All students enrolled in Band 1 - regardless of the particular band class - are required to participate in marching band during the first semester. Students will be expected to provide supplies and there are certain fees connected to the course. 

Beginning in the 2020-2021 school year, students enrolled in Band 1 will be co-enrolled in PESUBMB (PE Substitution Marching Band) and will receive 1 credit of PE in addition to the fine arts credit. 

Prerequisite(s): Credit in Level I 

This course will enable students to further explore the five C's (communication, culture, connections, comparisons, and communities), completing the novice level of proficiency. Students will continue to work on their interpersonal, interpretive, and presentation skills in order to effectively communicate with others. This course aims to provide students with a well-rounded exploration and foundation of their respective target language. 

Prerequisite(s): Credit in Level I 

This course will further explore the five C's, pushing into the intermediate level of proficiency. Students will begin strengthening their interpersonal, interpretive, and presentation skills in order to communicate with different audiences. Students will sharpen their global understanding of the language by analyzing authentic materials. Students will begin to practice strategies for AP and other college placement exams. It is strongly recommended that students planning to take a level III course to select level II Advanced in order to be better prepared. Although not exclusively, the course instructor will use the target language during instruction. 

Advanced Course: Carefully review the Advanced Course Commitment guidelines before selecting this course. 

Prerequisite: Students must apply and be accepted to the course 

Co-Requisite: Students must be enrolled in at least one Advanced, Advanced Placement (AP), Dual Credit, and/or On-Ramps course 

ADVANCEMENT VIA INDIVIDUAL DETERMINATION (AVID), LEVEL I

AVID 1:  AVID l serves as a review of the AVID philosophy and strategies. Students work on academic and personal goals, communication, and adjusting to the high school setting. Students increase their awareness of their personal contributions to their learning, as well as their involvement in their school and community. There is an emphasis on analytical writing, focusing on personal goals and thesis writing. Students work in collaborative settings, learning how to participate in collegial discussions and use sources to support their ideas and opinions. Students prepare for and participate in college entrance and placement exams while refining study skills and test-taking, note-taking, and research techniques. Students take an active role in field trips and guest-speaker preparations and presentations. College research includes financial topics and building their knowledge of colleges and careers of interest.