Embedded Files
English Elective Courses
(These courses do not satisfy the core English credit.)
ENG 251 - AMERICAN LITERATURE I (+0.50 GRADE WEIGHT)- DUAL ENROLLMENT
01999C1003
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in ENG 101/102.
This is a semester course.
This course is a survey of American literature from its beginnings to the mid-nineteenth century. Emphasis is placed on representative works and writers of this period and on the literary, cultural, historical, and philosophical forces that shaped these works and that are reflected in them. This course does not satisfy the requirements for 12th grade English.
ENG 252 - AMERICAN LITERATURE II (+0.50 GRADE WEIGHT)- DUAL ENROLLMENT
01999C1004
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: A grade of "C" or higher in ENG 101/102.
This is a semester course.
This course is a survey of American literature from the mid nineteenth century to the present. Emphasis is placed on representative works and writers of this period and on the literary, cultural, historical, and philosophical forces that shaped these works and that are reflected in them. This course does not satisfy the requirements for 12th grade English.
AFRICAN-AMERICAN LITERATURE
01099G10aa
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
This engaging course intended for all students will survey African-American literature pulled primarily from the past three decades, providing a window that will allow students to see how African-American writers have contributed to, have transformed, and continue to transform America. The main requirement for this course is engagement with the readings in class discussion. Additionally, students will be asked to write periodically and complete end-of-semester projects. Some texts on the syllabus contain topics and language that some might find difficult or controversial but which are essential in exploring the African-American experience.
AP SEMINAR (+1.00 GRADE WEIGHT)
22110E1000
Grade Level: 10-12
Requirements: Currently enrolled in an advanced-level English Course
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
AP Seminar is a foundational course that engages students in cross-curricular conversations that explore the complexities of academic and real-world topics and issues by analyzing divergent perspectives. Using an inquiry framework, students practice reading and analyzing articles, research studies, and foundational, literary, and philosophical texts; listening to and viewing speeches, broadcasts, and personal accounts; and experiencing artistic works and performances. Students learn to synthesize information from multiple sources, develop their own perspectives in research-based written essays, and design and deliver oral and visual presentations, both individually and as part of a team. Ultimately, the course aims to equip students with the power to analyze and evaluate information with accuracy and precision in order to craft and communicate evidence-based arguments. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.
AP RESEARCH (+1.00 GRADE WEIGHT)
22112E1000
Grade Level: 11-12
Requirements: Currently enrolled in an advanced-level English Course
Prerequisite: AP Seminar
AP Research is the second course in the AP Capstone™ program and AP Seminar is a prerequisite for AP Research. Students in this class will work with a mentor to explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of interest and design, plan, and conduct a year-long research-based investigation to address it. By the end of the year-long study students will submit an academic paper of 4,000-5,000 words and offer an oral defense; during which you will answer 3-4 questions from a panel of evaluators. The AP Research score will be based on the paper, presentation, and defense. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.
CREATIVE WRITING
01104G1000
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
Creative writing is the study of writing and the transmission of original thought through that writing. The ability to get the reader to hear what the writer seeks to say is the core skill taught in this course. In this introductory class, students will explore the various methods of communication through reading, analyzing, and creating examples of poetry, short stories, essays, plays, children’s literature, and other forms. Students will be required to write on a weekly basis, to regularly share written work with their peers, to critique the writing of their peers, and to maintain a portfolio of their work in the class.
IB THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE 12 (+1.00 GRADE WEIGHT)
04304E1000
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: See criteria under IB Program including IB Program Fees
Required course for IB Diploma candidates; available for IB Courses students who are taking at least two additional IB courses.
In the second year of this two-year course, students examine the many ways we define "knowledge" in everyday communication as well as the world of philosophy. Through a variety of readings, discussions, and writings, students will assess the impact of their surroundings, backgrounds, families, and core values, all of which offer us a window into how we reach our individual knowledge claims and why those claims often differ significantly from person to person. In addition to finalizing their Extended Essay from ToK 11, students complete two official IB assessments as part of their ToK 12 coursework.
Math Elective Courses
MATH LAB
02996G0000
Grade Level: 9-12
This course does not earn one of the four required math credits for graduation. This course earns an elective credit.
This course provides additional support to students in their effort to meet the standards of the Geometry with Data Analysis, Algebra 1 with Probability, or Algebra 2 Statistics courses. Math Lab is taken concurrently with a student’s regular math class, giving extra time and utilizing a variety of strategies to help students build a stronger foundation for success in their current and future mathematics courses. If you select this course you will choose Math Lab, and then a section type that goes along with the math class the student will take. Students behind one math course or with a D or F in their current math course will be signed up for Math Lab.
Social Studies Elective Courses
PSYCHOLOGY
04254G1000
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
Psychology is a year-long course which provides students with a basic understanding of human behavior. Included in the course are units on brain function and perception, motivation, developmental psychology, personality, learning and intelligence, abnormal behavior, and methods and research.
This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus.
PSYCHOLOGY (1/2 credit)
04254G0500
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
Psychology is a semester-long course which provides students with a basic understanding of human behavior. Included in the course are units on research methods, brain function, sensation and perception, learning, development, personality, social behavior, and psychological disorders and treatments. Students explore the application of psychological principles to understand and predict human behavior in various contexts.
SOCIOLOGY (1/2 credit)
04258G0500
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
Sociology is a semester-long course which provides students with a basic understanding of human social relationships and institutions. Included in the course are units on research methods, culture and social structure. the individual in society, social control and deviance, social inequality and social institutions. Students learn to think critically, by analyzing social phenomena in various contexts.
PSYCHOLOGY, AP (+1.00 COURSE WEIGHT)
04256E1000
Grade Level: 9-12
Recommendation: A score of 25 or higher on the self-assessment rubric
Advanced Placement Psychology, a full-year course, is an introductory college level course that examines human behavior. The course outline follows the precepts of the College Board, and includes units on sensation and perception, states of consciousness, learning and intelligence, motivation and emotion, developmental psychology, personality, abnormal psychology, and the treatment of psychological disorders. Research methods and the major schools of thought will be addressed throughout this course. Students will be required to research topics of interest in psychology as well as design and conduct an experiment with other members of the AP class. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.
HUMAN GEOGRAPHY, AP (+1.00 COURSE WEIGHT)
04004E1000
Grade Level: 9-12
Recommendation: A score of 25 or higher on the self-assessment rubric
Advanced Placement Human Geography is a year-long course designed to represent a college introductory course in Human Geography. In this course, students will use the thinking processes of geographers to explore patterns of human population, migration, and land use. Using maps, tables, charts, graphs, infographics, images, and landscapes to draw conclusions and understand cultures, languages, religions, the class will discuss agriculture, industrialization, urbanization, and the demographics as they relate to geographic concepts. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.
HISTORY THROUGH FILM
04099G10ad
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
History through Film evaluates the medium of film as it portrays themes in history. These themes include military history, social history, individuals and regional cultures. Movies will be viewed in class and then discussed. The focus of the discussion will be historical accuracy. The class will also examine how the year each movie was made influenced how events in the movie were presented. The early history of the film industry will also be covered.
WORLD RELIGIONS (COMPARATIVE RELIGIONS)
07002G1000
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
World Religions is a year-long course that will introduce students to the study of religion and survey six major world religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Additionally two major religions will be selected by the instructor for an in-depth study from the following list: Buddhism, Sikhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, or Judaism. Students will examine the rituals, sacred texts, beliefs and religious experience of these religions, and develop an appreciation for the world's religious diversity.
IB WORLD RELIGIONS (+1.00 COURSE WEIGHT)
04017E10SL
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: See criteria under IB Program including IB Program Fees
Recommendations: A score of 25 or higher on self-assessment rubric
World Religions is a year-long course that will introduce students to the study of religion and survey six major world religions: Hinduism, Buddhism, Taoism, Judaism, Christianity, and Islam. Additionally two major religions will be selected by the instructor for an in-depth study from the following list: Buddhism, Sikhism, Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, or Judaism. Students will examine the rituals, sacred texts, beliefs and religious experience of these religions, and develop an appreciation for the world's religious diversity. NOTE: The content and delivery for this course is identical to that of regular level World Religions. The courses will be seated concurrently, but the IB students will have additional reading and assessments and sit for the official IB exams in May.
General Electives
ACT TEST PREPARATION
22994X10ma
Grade Level: 10-11
This is a semester course.
The ACT Prep course is designed to prepare students for all four areas of the ACT in addition to teaching/ reviewing general study strategies necessary for academic success. The curriculum will include online resources such as Method Test Prep as well as research-based materials that emphasize learning concepts. Students will develop test-taking strategies through drills and several full-length practice tests. A composition unit will concentrate on strategies for writing the ACT essay as well as college/scholarship essays. Students are required to purchase a consumable study guide for this course. Approximate cost is $30.
This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus.
AP COMPUTER SCIENCE PRINCIPLES (+1.00 GRADE WEIGHT)
10019E1000
Grade Level: 10-12 Course Video
Recommendations:
A score of 25 or higher on self-assessment rubric
Students who desire the challenge of pursuing college course work at the high school level
Students should have completed Algebra I or Accelerated Math 7 & Accelerated Math 8
AP Computer Science Principles can earn a CTE, Math, or Science credit.
AP Computer Science Principles introduces students to the central ideas of computer science, instilling the ideas and practices of computational thinking and inviting students to understand how computing changes the world. The rigorous course promotes deep learning of computational content, develops computational thinking skills, and engages students in the creative aspects of the field. The course is unique in its focus on fostering students to be creative. Students are encouraged to apply creative processes when developing computational artifacts and to think creatively while using simulations to explore questions that interest them. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.
AP COMPUTER SCIENCE A (+1.00 GRADE WEIGHT)
10157E1000
Grade Level: 11-12 Course Video
Prerequisite: Algebra II with Statistics
Recommendations:
A score of 25 or higher on self-assessment rubric
Students who desire the challenge of pursuing college course work at the high school level
Students should have completed Algebra I or Accelerated Math 7 & Accelerated Math 8
AP Computer Science Principles can earn a CTE, Math, or Science credit.
AP Computer Science (APCS) emphasizes the development of computer programs that correctly solve a given problem using the Java programming language. Students will learn to design and implement solutions to problems by writing, running and debugging computer programs using algorithms and data structures. Additionally, students will learn to read and understand large programs and recognize the ethical and social implications of computer use. Advanced Placement courses are rigorous, college-level courses. Students are required to take the end-of-course exam in May. See the Hoover City Schools fee schedule for exam fees.
DEBATE (ACADEMIC COMPETITION TEAM) (+.50 GRADE WEIGHT)
22994X10ac
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
Course Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=y0AXGlxQIZw
This course will provide students with instruction in competitive speech and debate. Students will be able to participate in individual speech events as well as debate events. All students are expected to participate in after-school practice as well as the daily course. Students in the course are expected to participate in tournaments during the school year. Students will build skills in writing, research, and critical thinking.
MATH FOUNDATIONS, BASIC SKILLS
02049X0707
Grade Level: 9-12
Prerequisite: Approval of Case Manager
This course is designed to develop and solidify basic arithmetic and algebra skills that will be required in future math courses. The instructional strategies used in this course will include: guided practice activities, small and large group discussion, technology, independent practice, and direct instruction.
PEER HELPING
22107X1000
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
Prerequisite: Application process
This course allows 10th, 11th, and 12th grade students the opportunity to serve the students of Hoover High School and our feeder schools. During the 1st 9 weeks of school, students are trained in communication, mediation, tutoring, and other skills that will be used throughout the year. Students will be given a Peer Helping assignment for the 2nd - 4th 9 weeks of the school year. In these assignments, Peer Helpers foster relationships with their peers and younger students while helping them academically and socially. Peer Helpers also lead awareness campaigns like Suicide Prevention Week and Be Kind Week. Cords for graduation are achieved by serving in Peer Helping for two years - one of which must be senior year.
PUBLIC SPEAKING
01151G1000
Grade Level: 10-12
This is a semester course.
This course is designed to offer high school students a number of opportunities to organize and prepare public speaking assignments and to increase students’ confidence in front of an audience. Students will learn and practice speaking techniques, use technology to give presentations and better understand the role of communication in our lives and their chosen career path. Upon completion of the course, students should be able to confidently prepare and deliver well-organized speeches and effectively participate in collaborative environments. Students should also demonstrate the speaking, listening, and interpersonal skills necessary to be effective communicators in academic settings, in the workplace, and in the community.
READING, BASIC SKILLS
01068X0707
Grade Level: 9-12
Prerequisite: Approval of Case Manager
Students will learn techniques that, when applied, can help them become independent readers. The teacher will instruct the students in reading skill techniques, writing skill techniques, lead class activities and discussions that reinforce topics of study, model skills taught, and encourage students to apply techniques to their personal lives for success both in school and in life. The instructional strategies used in this course will include: guided practice activities, small and large group discussion, technology, independent practice, and direct instruction.
READING INTERVENTION
01068G0000
Grade Level: 9-12
Students will become stronger readers from this elective. The teacher will address reading difficulties; skill acquisition; reading techniques remediation; and word attack. The instructional strategies used in this course will include: guided practice activities, small and large group discussion, technology, independent practice, and direct instruction.
SENIOR CLASS OFFICERS (SCO)
22994X10zb
Grade Level: 12
Prerequisite: Signature of sponsor is needed after an election and interview process is complete. See Mrs. Darling in B215 for an application.
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
This course allows 12th grade students the opportunity to use and better their leadership skills. It is designed to provide planning time for SCO members to plan all Senior events including the Senior Halloween dance, Beauty walk, senior tailgates, and Graduation.These students are to be leaders during school and outside of school at all times.
STEM TEAM, ACADEMIC COMPETITION TEAM (+ 0.50 ADDED WEIGHT)
22994X10aa
The STEM Team class is an Advanced Level course that focuses on preparation for the multifaceted science and STEM-based competitions that students participate in over the course of the year. STEM Team members represent Hoover High School in regional, statewide, and national competitions. There is some in-state travel in the spring. Regional success means national travel. Students are able to compete in a variety of competitions both as an individual and as a team. This class provides concentrated time to prepare for competitions like the Science Olympiad, LexusEcoChallenge, TEAMS engineering and design competition, Science Bowl, science fair, and others. Most of the competitions are outlined on our website You may take this course multiple times over 4 years. You do not have to take the class to be on the team.
This is a course that is offered virtually in addition to an in-person class. Students must complete the permission form and turn it in to their counselor. Teachers will communicate expectations regarding classwork and testing in the course syllabus.
STUDENT AIDE, LIBRARY @ HHS
22051X10aa
Grade Level: 10–12
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
In this hands-on class, students will learn how to manage the library’s circulation desk using Destiny software. In addition, students will maintain an assigned section of the library and assist patrons. This class is limited to 2 students per period.
YEARBOOK
11104X1000
Grade Level: 9-12
Prerequisite: Application and acceptance into the program.
Prerequisite/Corequisite: At least one credit in World Language, Career Tech, or Fine Arts
This course allows students the opportunity to participate in a leadership role in the production of our yearbook, The Caravel. Students will be taught all skills necessary. All students interested in being on our staff should have exceptional work ethic. You will gain experience in areas of desktop publishing, layout-copy production, photography, and copy & caption writing. Some after school hours are required.
CTE Electives
CO-OP (COOPERATIVE EDUCATION)/ CO-OP WORK-BASED LEARNING)
22998G1014
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: Application and acceptance into the program. Must be employed by the first day of school.
Co-op/Work-Based Learning is a supervised program that provides students with the opportunity to earn course credits through career development and employment. Course credits are earned by hours completed at an approved jobsite or volunteer experience. Students can earn up to 4 credits in Cooperative Education over the course of the year based on hours worked at an approved site. Cooperative education will help empower students to become competitive employees and productive citizens. See tibryant@hoover.k12.al.us or maboone@hoover.k12.al.us for more information. Pick up an application in the Co-op office which is located inside the HHS library.
AP BUSINESS WITH PERSONAL FINANCE
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: None
Advanced Placement Business with Personal Finance is an exciting, college-level yearlong course open to any student who wants to gain real-world knowledge of how businesses operate and how to manage money wisely. This course combines core business principles -- entrepreneurship, marketing, management, and finance -- with essential personal financial literacy, giving students the tools to make confident decisions about careers, money, and everyday life. Students engage in project-based learning and case studies that reflect authentic business challenges and explore topics such as budgeting, saving, investing, accounting, and business strategy.
This course is ideal for students who want to build practical skills in communication, decision-making, collaboration, and leadership that are valued in college and the workplace. Through hands-on projects like the Business Canvas Project and financial planning activities, students practice entrepreneurial thinking and financial analysis as they prepare for future success.
As a bonus, enrollment in AP Business with Personal Finance makes you eligible to join the award-winning Hoover DECA chapter (optional), where you can develop leadership, compete in business events, and expand your professional network.
MARKETING PRINCIPLES
12164G1001
Grade Level: 10-12
Dive into the dynamic world of marketing where creativity meets strategy! Marketing Principles is an engaging, hands-on course that shows students how ideas become brands and how businesses connect with consumers in today’s fast-paced world. Students explore how products are created, priced, promoted, and delivered while uncovering what motivates customers to buy. From eye-catching advertising and social media marketing to branding, entrepreneurship, and global business trends, this course brings real-world marketing to life. Through interactive projects, team challenges, and real business scenarios, students build creativity, communication, and problem-solving skills that prepare them for careers in marketing, business, and beyond. Whether students dream of running their own business, managing a brand, or influencing consumer trends, this course puts them at the center of the action! Taking Marketing Principles makes you eligible to join our award-winning DECA chapter (optional) -- an association of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs -- where you can develop leadership, compete in business events, and expand your professional network.
ACCOUNTING 1
12104G1012
Prerequisite: None
Did you know that accounting is consistently a highly sought-after profession, and that accounting graduates tend to make more than their peers upon graduation? That’s because accounting is the “language of business.” Companies need accountants to analyze their financials so they can make smart decisions (as an added bonus, accounting also helps individuals make smart decisions with their personal finances). Former students who took accounting at Hoover High School have expressed how their high school accounting experience made their college coursework much more understandable. Why not take a class that gives you a jumpstart AND a solid foundation? Business Academy: Accounting 1 students will also prepare for their 120 hours required internship. Lessons in soft skills, interviewing, preparing a resume, dressing for success and creating an online portfolio will also be integrated in this class. Business Academy 3 Accounting students will also prepare to take the Microsoft Office Specialist exam for Excel or Excel Expert.
BUSINESS ACADEMY: BUSINESS & LEGAL CONCEPTS
12054G1001
Grade Level: 10-12
Prerequisite: None
Business and Legal Concepts emphasizes the ethical and legal dimensions of conducting business. The course focuses on application of ethical concepts, historical events that have shaped business law in the United States, the U.S. court systems, contracts, insurance, and various areas of law that impact business operations. Though this class is not in the finance or marketing pathways, it is a great introduction to the ways that law affects both the finance and marketing industries.
DIGITAL MARKETING
12162G1000
Prerequisite: None
Digital Marketing is a high-energy, hands-on course designed for students who want to understand how brands win attention and customers in today’s digital world. This course dives into social media marketing, content creation, digital advertising, branding, and analytics — the same tools real companies use every day. Students will design campaigns, analyze trends, and learn how to turn creativity into measurable impact, all while building skills that translate to college, careers, and entrepreneurship. Enrollment in Digital Marketing makes students eligible to join Hoover’s award-winning DECA chapter (optional), where they can compete, lead, and apply what they learn in real-world business scenarios. If you’re interested in digital media, social platforms, or how ideas turn into influence, this course is your launchpad.
ENTREPRENEURSHIP
12053G1000
Prerequisite: None
Got a big idea—or want one? Turn Ideas into impact! Entrepreneurship is your launchpad into the world of innovation, leadership, and real-world problem-solving. You’ll learn how entrepreneurs think, spot opportunities, and transform creative ideas into successful ventures that make a difference. You’ll also learn directly from real entrepreneurs—through guest speakers, interviews, and stories of success and failure—gaining insider insights you won’t find in a textbook. Through hands-on projects, team challenges, and real-life case studies, you’ll explore how to develop a business idea, understand customers, build a brand, manage money, and pitch with confidence. You’ll practice critical skills like creativity, resilience, communication, and smart risk-taking—skills that matter whether you start a business, lead a team, or create change in your community.
By the end of the course, you won’t just understand entrepreneurship—you’ll think like an entrepreneur. Ready to innovate, take initiative, and shape the future? This course is where it begins. You will also have the opportunity to join our award-winning DECA chapter (optional) -- an association of emerging leaders and entrepreneurs. Boost your resume, develop leadership skills, compete in business events, and expand your professional network!
SPORTS AND ENTERTAINMENT MARKETING
12163G1001
Prerequisite: None
Sports and Entertainment Marketing is a one-credit specialized course designed to offer students an opportunity to gain knowledge and develop skills related to the growing sports and entertainment industry. Sports Marketing addresses such diverse products as the sporting event itself, its athletes, sports facilities or locations, sporting goods, personal training, and sports information. Entertainment Marketing includes events such as fairs, concerts, trade shows, festivals, plays, product launches, causes, etc.
IB BUSINESS AND MANAGEMENT, SL
12059E10SL
Grade Level: 11-12
Prerequisite: See criteria under IB Program including IB Program Fees
Recommendation: A score of 25 or higher on self-assessment rubric
IB Business Management SL is an exciting and globally-recognized business course that invites curious, ambitious students to explore how real organizations operate and succeed in an ever-changing world. You’ll dive into the core functions of business -- from marketing and finance to human resources and operations -- while developing a strategic mindset and valuable skills like critical thinking, decision-making, and ethical analysis. This course challenges you to understand how internal and external factors influence business decisions and how leaders respond to opportunities and challenges with creativity, sustainability, and innovation in mind.
Whether you’re planning a future in business or simply want a deeper understanding of how the world of commerce works, IB Business will prepare you to think like a global citizen and a savvy problem-solver. Enrollment in IB Business also makes you eligible to join Hoover’s award-winning DECA chapter (optional), where you can apply your knowledge, compete, lead, and connect with other future business leaders.
Page updated
Report abuse