This is a hands-on course in which students will use Microsoft Office and the Windows operating environment. An online, interactive textbook will be utilized in this course to personalize the experience with assignments that guide students to analyze, apply, and improve thinking, allowing them to measure skills and outcomes with ease in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint. The course will include three components of the Microsoft Office suite including Word where students will become proficient in completing basic and advanced applications such as document formatting, tabs, tables, graphics, research papers, and basic web integration. Excel will be used as a tool to create spreadsheets and graphs to analyze and solve business-related applications. In PowerPoint, the students will learn how to create presentation slides combining text, charts, drawings, and clip art. Students will acquire software skills that will prepare them for college and beyond. Criteria for Selection – None. 

The accounting skills acquired in Principles of Accounting 1 will be expanded this semester. Emphasis is placed on accounting for a merchandising business organized as a corporation. Students continue applications of accounting principles using Microsoft Excel for problem-solving. This course will be beneficial when considering a major in accounting or business at the college-level. Upon successful completion of Principles of Accounting 2, students are eligible to enroll in Honors Advanced Accounting 1 and 2. In addition, the student may obtain three college credits through the La Roche University College in High School program. To obtain this credit, the student must also take Principles of Accounting 1 in the same school year, successfully complete the course as specified by the University, and pay the tuition charged by the University. Criteria for Selection–‘C’ or better in Principles of Accounting 1. 

Introduction to Business tackles issues such as current business topics, types of business organization, and economic systems, as well as personal financial planning. Decision-making skills, economics, entrepreneurship, management styles, investment securities, consumerism, banking, money management, and taxes will all be explored in this dynamic course. In addition, students will participate in a web-based simulation, Family Financial Management. Making wise decisions and establishing short- and long-term financial goals are essential “life skills” that young people often fail to benefit from during their early wealth-building years. Criteria for Selection – None. 

This course is designed to help students gain confidence in public speaking skills, improve communication skills, and strengthen critical thinking skills. Students will present a variety of speeches, including prose reading, impromptu/extemporaneous speaking, dramatic/humorous interpretation, original oratory, and Lincoln-Douglas Debate. Students are required to memorize a 6-10 minute speech. Student participation in competitive tournaments is encouraged, but not required. This course is highly recommended for all levels. Criteria for Selection - None.

The NAI Yearbook Staff is responsible for the time capsule that is the traditional high school yearbook. Students are responsible for every piece of content, from graphic design and layout to photography and text. Beyond the fleeting scope of social media, students will create an artifact that captures their experience at NAI. Completed yearbooks are distributed to students who paid for them upon completion in the spring. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Students explore the tenets and skills of modern journalism through the management and publication of NAI’s online student newspaper, The NAEye. Students should be comfortable with writing and researching independently, conducting face-to-face interviews, and seeing their writing through multiple revisions as part of the writing and publishing process. Interest and previous experience in journalistic writing, podcasting, and photography are encouraged, but not required. Exemplary student writings are submitted for local and national recognition in the field of student journalism. Criteria for Selection - None. 

This elective course is open to all North Allegheny Intermediate students who are interested in developing and expressing their own creative voice through language. Students will have the opportunity to explore a variety of writing that includes different types of poetry and short stories, as well as experiment with new topics, genres, and media of interest. Students will also become part of a writing community through activities and workshops. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Using a team approach, Leadership 2 students apply learned Leadership 1 skills as both leaders and followers in school-wide projects. Students explore experiences in motivation, group dynamics, team building, facilitating, giving feedback, decision-making, problem-solving, and risk-taking. Student leaders experience numerous application activities via icebreakers, in-class projects, and “hands-on” experiences. Criteria for Selection – Minimum of 80% in Leadership 1 .

This course is an introduction to the basic elements of theater from the history of theater to the wide world of acting and stage presence. Students can expect to be actively involved in their learning from participating in actors’ workshops to researching and leading their own lessons and even directing dress rehearsals. There is no prior acting experience required to take this course, but students should be aware that they need to spend time memorizing their lines and learning stage directions and blocking. Throughout the semester, students will explore the following units: the history of theater, physical acting, vocal acting, improvisation, pantomime, monologues, group scenes, dramatic poetry readings, parody/satirical acting, screenwriting, and directing. The semester will culminate with students working together to perform one-act plays. Criteria for Selection - None.

This course introduces students to the art of reading a film. Students learn a framework for interpreting film, so they see film as readable text and see the relationship between fiction narratives and film. The course investigates the narrative structure of film and how cinematic elements combine with literary elements to produce moving pictures as literature. Students will explore film “pre-writing” through the use of storyboards, examine the main elements of cinematic language, and identify the distinguishing characteristics of major film genres. The evolution of specific genres (western, comedy, sci-fi, film noir) is examined as record of how the stories a culture tells about itself reflect as well as shape that society. Criteria for Selection – None. 

This course provides students with an introduction to aspects of modern digital media creation and design. Students explore elements of video and audio design, production, and editing; television broadcasting; podcasting; and more. Students should be comfortable with the basics of operating audio-visual equipment and appearing on camera. The course collaborates closely with Intro to Journalism to publish multimedia content for the school newspaper, The NAEye. Criteria for Selection - None.

 Develop an understanding of food and basic nutrition, kitchen safety and sanitation, and build upon culinary skills while working on more challenging recipes. Examine and incorporate social food trends including food in the social media world and social food issues, such as food waste, sustainability, and farm to table. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Prepare foods from around the world as you explore international customs and cuisines. Discover the ingredients, preparation techniques, and tools used in authentic dishes during weekly labs while collaborating with classmates. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Fashion and Design is an introduction to the creative world of design. Students will explore fashion design from a designer’s perspective, working through basic fashion principles to creating and sketching pieces for a clothing line. Students will construct garments, working on multiple projects using sewing machines. Other aspects of design in our lives will be explored through individual projects that focus on student interests. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Become a more confident and attentive caregiver by learning the skills needed to encourage healthy, happy babies and supportive, loving families. Investigate a variety of topics related to infants and children with opportunities for hands-on experiences, including the Real Care baby simulator. Learn about the whole child, including physical, social, emotional, intellectual development, health and safety, and caring for children. Criteria for Selection – None. 

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This physical education class is for those students who want to make a serious commitment to their physical well-being. Advanced Physical Education may be scheduled in place of Course 0601/0602 for the 9th and 10th grades only. The class emphasizes cardiorespiratory efficiency, muscular strength, and muscular endurance. It is designed to enhance flexibility, help students understand body composition, develop positive attitudes, and responsible habits. The course will cover the regular physical education curriculum and will include additional time allotted to workouts focused on improving individual fitness levels. 

Criteria for Selection - None.

Unified Physical Education is an elective course for sophomores that offers a unique opportunity for students of varying ability levels and backgrounds to collaborate and serve as both, a peer mentor and learner. For interested students, this elective is offered in place of the regular physical education course. The focus of this course is on the physical, intellectual, and social growth of all participants. Students applying for this course must be in their freshman year with an interest in mentoring students. All students wishing to mentor are expected to be enthusiastic, positive role models, and student leaders.If you have an interest in helping others, special needs or physical/occupational therapy, this class may be a great fit for you. All students in this class will work together to meet all the course requirements and will follow a variation of the NAI PE curriculum Students will have additional assignments in the form of journals, reflections and collaborative lessons. Class enrollment is limited. Recommendation from your school counselor, plus two additional teachers and an in-person interview upon application are required to be considered for this course. Enrollment within this course is subject to class size and staffing.  Criteria for Selection - Completion freshman year and teacher recommendation. 

Adaptive Physical Education is similar to regular physical education classes except that class size is smaller to permit concentrated development in coordination, strength, flexibility, and improved physical fitness. Skills for individual and team activities will be adjusted to individual needs. Criteria for Selection – None. 

The major emphasis in this course is on extending the student’s proficiency in the Python programming language methodology and understanding of algorithms and data structures. The implementation of this extension will be accomplished using an appropriate programming language. The high-level structured nature of the programming language will be utilized to develop solutions to problems by applying top-down design and modular programming methods. The topics and algorithms learned provide an excellent background for taking AP Computer Science. The programming language used in this course is Python. Criteria for Selection – Minimum of 70% in Computer Science A.

The major emphasis of Honors Computer Programming B is on extending the student’s proficiency in programming methodology and understanding of algorithms and data structures. The implementation of this extension will be accomplished using an appropriate programming language. The high-level structured nature of the programming language will be utilized to develop solutions to problems by applying top-down design and modular programming methods. The topics and algorithms learned provide an excellent background for taking AP Computer Science. The programming language used in this course is C++.

The Advanced/Honors Mathematics courses are intended to be more challenging than Academic courses and are designed to provide multiple opportunities for students to take an increased responsibility for their own learning and achievement. These courses are designed for students who have demonstrated an advanced level of achievement in mathematics. The curriculum is distinguished by a difference in rigor and the quality of work, not merely the quantity. Criteria for selection: Minimum of 60% in Honors Computer Programming A (C++). 

AP Computer Science Principles is an introductory college-level course that is an in-depth exploration of the following concepts: creating and innovating with technology, investigating how data and information facilitate the creation of knowledge, writing computer programs, and learning how the Internet infuses modern computing. This course also builds computational thinking practices of code analysis, computational solution design, abstraction of program development, and reasonable computing. Criteria for Selection – Minimum of 60% Algebra 1 (prior to Grade 9) OR corequisite of Algebra 1. 

This course is designed to give students the ability to create original music, and learn to use different kinds of instruments and sound-generating and recording equipment. Students will express ideas to others by writing, performing, and recording music. Included is arranging for various instrument kinds, learning how artists develop their musical idea, and how to develop a musical idea into a final project. Topics covered include: melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, form, and various song styles. Criteria for Selection – None. 

This course is a continuation of Music Technology and Songwriting 1. The student will create projects through the use of recording techniques, sound synthesizers and computers. The course also includes activities to improve the student’s listening and analysis skills.  Criteria for Selection–Successful completion of Music Technology & Songwriting 1. 

This course is a continuation of Music Technology and Songwriting 2. This level includes more advanced studies of melody and harmony. The student will continue to develop skills needed in order to compose and perform music. Topics covered include: advanced melody, advanced harmony, advanced rhythm, advanced texture, advanced form, and various song styles. Criteria for Selection – Successful completion of Music Technology & Songwriting 2. 

This course is a continuation of Music Technology and Songwriting 3. Activities in this course include: Creating original music, learning to use different kinds of instruments and sound-generating equipment, and how to express ideas to others by writing, performing, and recording music. Included is arranging for various instrument kinds, learning how artists develop their musical idea, and how to develop a musical idea into a final performance. Topics covered include: melody, harmony, rhythm, texture, form, and various song styles. Criteria for Selection – Successful completion of Music Technology & Songwriting 3. 

This course includes studies classified as music ear training, music writing, sight-reading, analysis, and composing. The student will learn how to hear music and write it down, how to read music, how to write music, how to analyze music, and how to compose music. This course is an absolute must for anyone considering a career in music. It will also provide the non-music major with valuable skills that will enable him/her to understand and enjoy music better. Students do not have to be able to play an instrument to take this course nor is any prior music background required. Criteria for Selection – None. 

This course is an extension of Production 1. This level includes more advanced studies of melody and harmony. The student will continue to develop skills needed to learn how to hear music and write it down, how to read music, how to write music, how to analyze, how to analyze music, and how to compose music. Criteria for Selection – Successful completion of Music

 Production 1. 

This course is an extension of Production 3. This level includes more advanced studies of the production of music. The student will continue to develop skills needed to learn how to master music, how to record music, how to analyze music, and how to compose music.  Criteria for Selection–Successful completion of Music Production 1. 

Same as the 9th Grade Chorus (#0812), but on a part-time basis for 0.5 credit. All types and styles of music are sung and performed in this part-time course. The object of the course is to help develop the voice into a mature instrument. Criteria for Selection -  This course is available only by audition and approval of the Director. 

All types and styles of music are sung and performed in this course. The object of the course is to help develop the voice into a mature instrument. Criteria for Selection – This course is available only by audition and approval of the Director.

10th Grade Chorus is a full-time sequential course designed to lead to Mixed Choir and Concert Choir in the High School. The course explores all types of music and concentrates on the development of the voice and four-part ensemble singing. Criteria for Selection - This course is available only by audition and approval of the Director. 

This is a separate course on a part-time basis for 0.5 credits. A sequential course designed to lead to Mixed Choir and Concert Choir, the course explores all types of music and concentrates on the development of the voice and four-part ensemble singing. Criteria for Selection – This course is audition and approval of the Director. 

This course is a vocal ensemble designed for advanced treble voices in grades 9 and 10. The repertoire is challenging and covers a diverse range of style and vocal abilities. Students should be aware that participation is required in school concerts as well as outside-of-school performances. Emphasis will be placed on sight-reading, adaptations of different styles of music, and diction. Special attention will be placed on the blending of voices and vocal quality. Criteria for Selection – This course is available only by audition and approval of the Director. 

This course is a vocal ensemble designed for only the most serious singer. The music we will learn will cover many different styles of music with more challenging literature than previously handled. Students should be aware that participation is required in school concerts as well as outside-of-school performances. Emphasis will be placed on sight-reading, adaptations of different styles of music, and diction. Special attention will be placed on the blending of voices and vocal quality. Criteria for Selection – This course is available only by audition and approval of the Director. 

This course is designed to engage students in music-making with their singing voice to understand musical elements such as style, rhythm, tone, tuning, harmony, and vocal repertoire. Repertoire is assigned based on vocal range and ability across a variety of styles. Performances outside of class are optional. Criteria for Selection - None.

In Honors Introduction to Engineering Design (IED) students are introduced to the engineering profession and methods used to approach solutions to engineering problems. The course will utilize activity, project problem-based teaching with a major emphasis on the design process. Students will progress from completing structured activities to solving open-ended projects and problems that require them to develop planning, documentation, communication, teamwork and other professional skills. Students will develop skills in technical representation and documentation of design solutions according to accepted technical standards and will use current 3D modeling software, digital fabrication, and 3D printing to represent and communicate solutions. This course is eligible for college credit through Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and other colleges and universities that can be found at the Project Lead the Way student opportunities page https://www.pltw.org/experience-pltw/student-opportunities. Criteria for Selection - None.  

Honors Principles of Engineering (POE) exposes students to some of the major concepts that they will encounter in a postsecondary engineering course. Through problems that engage and challenge, students explore a broad range of engineering topics including mechanisms, electrical systems, thermodynamics, the strength of materials and structures, automation, robotics, and motion. Students have the opportunity to develop skills and understand course concepts through activity, project, and problem-based learning. Activities and projects include, but not limited to, an automated sorter, a projectile launcher, various electrical circuits, and material testing methods. Students will also learn how to document their work and communicate their solutions to their peers and members of the professional community. This course is eligible for college credit through Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and other colleges and universities that can be found at the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) student opportunities page https://www.pltw.org/experience-pltw/student-opportunities. Criteria for Selection – Successful completion of, or concurrently enrolled in Honors Introduction to Engineering Design. 

Honors Digital Electronics (DE) is the study of electronic circuits that are used to process and control digital signals. Digital electronics allows for greater signal speed and storage capabilities and has revolutionized the world of electronics. The major focus of this course is to expose students to the design process of combinational and sequential logic design, teamwork, communication methods, engineering standards, and technical documentation. Utilizing the activity, project, and problem-based teaching and learning pedagogy, students will analyze, design, and build digital electronic circuits. While implementing these designs, students will continually hone their professional skills, creative abilities, and understanding of the circuit design process. This course is eligible for college credit through Rochester Institute of Technology (RIT) and other colleges and universities that can be found at the Project Lead the Way (PLTW) student opportunities page https://www.pltw.org/experience-pltw/student-opportunities. Criteria for Selection - Successful completion of, or concurrently enrolled in Honors Introduction to Engineering Design PLTW (CHS).  

Robotic Engineering will provide students the opportunity to continue the study of robots and automated systems gained through work in the previous course. Classroom and lab activities will include building and programming mobile robots using the VEX V5 system, using programmable logic controllers to control pneumatic/mechanical systems, and exploring robots used in manufacturing, product development, testing, and amusement. Students will also experience programming with vision sensors and remote controls. Students will use this knowledge along with the design process to create custom robots that will prepare them for challenges and competitions. Criteria for Selection – Successful completion of Exploring Robotic Engineering. 

Exploring Creation and Innovation is an emerging course where students apply critical thinking and creativity through the use of the design process and digital fabrication. Using the latest technology tools and software including 3D printers, laser engravers, CNC routers, vinyl printer/cutter machines, and programmable devices, students will analyze current innovations and trends to create improvements upon them. Students will also have the opportunity to design and create their own projects based on previous activities and teacher input. These projects could include, but not limited to, vinyl wall art, custom 3D printed models, personalized engraved items, t-shirts, and jewelry. STEM concepts will be addressed throughout as students are exposed to and become active members of the “Maker” movement. Criteria for Selection – None. 

This course is an introduction to drafting and design for students interested in learning how CADD is utilized to communicate technical information related to the engineering field. Autodesk software will be utilized on the PC platform. Programs used will include AutoCAD, Inventor, Fusion 360, and REVIT. Students will be given opportunities to utilize laser engravers, 3-D printers, and other mediums. Students will learn techniques of drawing, dimensioning, modeling, and prototyping. Areas of engineering addressed will include mechanical, architectural, and structural. Both 2-D and 3-D modeling will be taught including, but not limited to rendering (color and shading of drawings). Students will learn about the materials used in manufacturing, the machines and methods of manufacturing, and related careers.  Criteria for Selection – None. 

In this course, students will develop solutions to given situations using problem-solving models. Activities will utilize STEM related concepts combined with the operation of automated machines in order to create prototypes and solutions. Students will research, design, prototype, manufacture, and test products that they have created themselves. Students will discover how to apply engineering design, scientific principles, and engineering analysis to solve real world problems. Problems will be based on the PA State Standards for Technology and Engineering Education. Individual and group work will be emphasized through the problem-solving process. The class will prepare students for the challenges of today and the future’s dynamic world by promoting technological literacy, leadership, and problem-solving skills. 

Criteria for Selection – None. 

This course is an introduction to electricity and electronics designed for students interested in learning how electricity can be safe and exciting. Students learn about electronic components and how they are used to design and assemble various circuits. Students will also complete various projects that will enhance their understanding of electronic design. Soldering wires and components, crimping connections, using digital multimeters, and operating power supplies for testing circuits are just a few of the hands-on activities in this course. How electricity is used in the home will be explored through residential wiring, electrical planning, and concepts of the smart home. Students will also be exposed to programmed circuits and mechatronics through individual projects using the Arduino and Raspberry Pi. STEM concepts will be addressed throughout the course.  

Criteria for Selection – None. 

Advanced use of CADD (Computer Aided Drawing and Design) software, a CNC (Computer Numerical Controlled) Router, Laser Engraver, and 3-D printer will be used in the design and development of individual products. This course continues the study of wood, woodworking machines, automated machines, and hand tools, but at an advanced level. Students become more independent in the development, design, and engineering of class products. Criteria for Selection – Successful completion of Manufacturing 1. 

Game Development 

Semester (9th/10th) #1211

Game Development is a game design course and much more. Technical skills such as programming, graphic design, animation, testing and debugging will be taught in this course. Skills acquired will be transferable to other STEM career paths. Game Development will begin with event driven programming and advance to more complex projects that involve writing texted-based code. The engineering problem-solving cycle plays a large role with integrating physics and mathematical principles into game functionality. After you have learned how to develop and program a game, you will investigate how to market an original game idea. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Advanced Game Development will expand upon the principles of two-dimensional game design learned in Game Development and introduce students to the principles of three-dimensional modeling and animation for game development. Topics will include modeling, animating, lighting, camera angles, and texturing. Through the use of a game engine, students will implement controls, physics, collision detection, sound, animation, and memory management. Students will use C# programming language, the Unity 3-D editor, and many of the concepts that are used in successful game design. Students will also become familiar with elements of game play and project management concepts, as related to video games. Students will utilize STEM skills as they apply the design process to the creation of their own games. Criteria for Selection – Successful completion of Game Development . 

Arts & Crafts 

Semester (9th/10th) #1311

This course is designed for students who like to work in many different artistic areas to discover interests and abilities for further study. Students learn the primary skills of many visual art processes as well as design and creative strategies. Most of the work produced in this class is intended for use as functional objects as well as works of art, and a variety of artistic media are used to develop artistic concepts. Some of the activities in the course include: etching on mirrors, hand-wrought metalwork and jewelry, hand-built pottery, tie-dye t-shirt design, sculpture, decoupage, pewter-casting, and fresco painting.  Criteria for Selection – None. 

AP Art History (CHS)

Full Year Full Time (10th) #1381

Advanced Placement (AP) Art History offers a unique, in-depth perspective into our world’s rich and diverse cultural heritage through study of art and architectural works across cultures and time periods, and is designed to engage students at the same level as an introductory college art history survey. Art History emphasizes visual analysis to understand how and why works of art function in their historical context. Throughout the year, students will examine issues such as politics, religion, patronage, gender, function, and ethnicity as they relate to creative works. Global and thematic connections will be made through the cross-cultural comparison of art. Students will engage with the history of art through a combination of discussion, research, museum visits, projects, and hands-on studio experiences. The course curriculum is intended to prepare students for the AP Art History exam, which students are encouraged, but not required, to take. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Digital Imaging & Media Arts 

Semester (9th/10th) #1321

Digital Imaging and Media Arts introduces students to creating original creative work using computers and digital media. Topics will include the design and production of digital imagery, graphics and photography, animation, video, multimedia, interactive design, and game design. Students will learn to use industry-standard creative software, such as Adobe Photoshop, Premiere Pro, and After Effects, to explore techniques, genres, and styles relating to graphic and web design, commercial advertising, and the fine arts. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Introduction to 

Pottery & Sculpture 

Semester (9th/10th) #1312

This course is designed to provide students with the opportunity to explore methods of artistic expression through studies in pottery and three-dimensional art making. Study will include a nine-week concentration in pottery work with experiences on the pottery wheel, hand-building pottery, and glazing. The other half of the semester is devoted to the creation of sculptures while exploring a variety of media including clay, plaster, metal, wood, glass, and plastic. Within each unit of study, various artists and artistic styles will be covered as well as different sculptural techniques and surface renderings. Some of these techniques will include: under and over glazing, marbleizing clay, mishima, and traditional patina finishes. Criteria for Selection – None.

Drawing & Painting 1 

Semester (9th/10th) #1301

Drawing and Painting 1 a basic course that introduces a wide variety of media and techniques. Included in the course are topics in design and composition in areas such as painting, drawing, cartooning, and work in the sketchbook. Students will be encouraged to work creatively and to become competent in the use of different materials and basic processes. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Drawing & Painting 2  

Semester (9th/10th) #1302

Drawing and Painting 2 a more advanced study of drawing and painting. There are no prerequisites; however, Drawing and Painting 1 is recommended. Students work in an expanded range of two-dimensional media. There will be concentration in areas of more advanced drawing, watercolor and acrylic painting, mixed media, graphic design, digital media, and printmaking, as well as work in the artist’s own personal sketchbook. Criteria for Selection – None. 

Drawing & Painting 3 

Full Year/Full Time (10th) #1303

Drawing and Painting 3 is a full-year/full-time course designed for those who wish to concentrate in specialized areas of interest. A high degree of personal involvement and responsibility for developing ideas and finished work will be stressed. Classwork will include an emphasis on more advanced drawing and painting, watercolor, acrylic and oil painting, graphic design, digital media, printmaking, and work in the sketchbook. Criteria for Selection – Successful completion of one or more semester-level Visual Arts courses in 9th grade OR Approval from a high school art teacher.