AFJROTC

Aerospace Science (AFJROTC)

 Sunnyslope 

Students will explore aerospace science through the AFJROTC program while developing leadership, citizenship, and personal responsibility. Students will learn about the historical development of flight, military structure, and aerospace-related career opportunities. Students will develop leadership skills through hands-on activities, participation in corps programs, and adherence to Air Force standards, including uniform wear and grooming expectations. Students will also gain awareness of post-secondary opportunities, including ROTC scholarships, military service pathways, and careers in the aerospace industry. No military obligation is incurred for participation in this program. 

Aerospace Science JROTC 1-2 Grades 9-12 2 Semesters 1 Credit

Students will explore the historical development of flight and the role of the military in aviation and national defense. Students will examine key milestones in aviation from early flight through modern military operations while developing an understanding of the role of the United States military throughout history. Students will participate in leadership studies connected to course content, including written and oral presentations. Students will also be introduced to Air Force customs and courtesies, uniform wear, and basic drill skills. 

Aerospace Science JROTC 3-4 Grades 10-12 2 Semesters 1 Credit

Prerequisite: None for juniors, seniors; Aerospace  Science JROTC 1-2 for sophomores 

Students will explore the aerospace environment, including the atmosphere, weather, and the principles of aircraft flight and navigation. Students will examine how environmental factors affect flight, including the forces of lift, drag, thrust, and weight. Students will develop basic navigation skills such as map reading, course plotting, and understanding the effects of wind. Students will also study the human requirements of flight, including human physiology, the circulatory system, the effects of acceleration and deceleration, and the use of protective equipment. Students will continue to develop leadership skills through cadet corps activities, written and oral presentations, and increased responsibility in planning and executing corps projects. 

Aerospace Science JROTC 5-6 Grades 11-12 2 Semesters 1 Credit

Prerequisite: None for seniors; Aerospace  Science JROTC 1-2 and 3-4 for juniors

Students will examine Earth, the Moon, and the planets while exploring advances in space technology and the challenges of space and manned spaceflight. Students will study concepts related to space travel, including orbits, trajectories, unmanned satellites, space probes, and guidance and control systems. Students will explore major milestones in human spaceflight, including efforts to land on the Moon and sustain human activity in space, as well as the development of space stations, the space shuttle, and international laws governing space travel. Students will continue to develop leadership and communication skills through written and oral activities. Students will also build foundational management skills such as planning, directing, and controlling while applying these skills through leadership roles within the cadet corps. 

Aerospace Science JROTC 7-8 Grades 12 2 Semesters 1 Credit

Prerequisite: Completion of 2 units of Aerospace Science, and approval of Department Chair

Students will participate in a fourth-year curriculum that offers three instructional options based on program needs and student composition, as determined by the Senior Aerospace Science Instructor (SASI).

In Option 1, students will manage the cadet corps, applying leadership skills through planning, organizing, coordinating, directing, and decision-making while developing communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

In Option 2, students will complete an honors-level ground school course focused on advanced aerospace topics, preparing them for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) written examination and future pursuit of a private pilot’s license.

In Option 3, students will explore aerospace careers while applying scientific concepts through laboratory experiences. Students will also study geography and survival skills, developing an understanding of Earth systems, human-environment interactions, and practical strategies for real-world situations.