Rocket Seminar Courses

AUTO EXTENSION: This course is for advances level automotive students would use this rocket seminar time to spend on lengthy shop and lab services.  Corequisite: Auto I or Auto II (One unit) (10-12)

AUTO UPKEEP: This course is intended to provide students with the knowledge to make economical decisions and take preventative measures to enhance the overall satisfaction of being an automotive consumer. The class discussions and lab activities provide the fundamental knowledge and experience in owning and maintaining an automobile. (One unit) (10-12)

CONSTRUCTION TRADES: In this course, students have the opportunity to build on skills mastered in Carpentry I, Masonry I, or Electrical Trades I with an increased emphasis on community work-based experiences. Advanced Masonry, Carpenty, and Electrical Trades students may use this course as an extension of the work done in those classes. Corequisite: Masonry II/III, Carpentry II/III, Electrical trades II/III (One unit) (10-12)

CPR: Students will gain the knowledge and skills in order to perform CPR on Adults and Infants. Instruction will align with the NCDPI HS II standards and AHA (American Heart Association). Students will receive a Certification and will be proficient in the knowledge and skills for CPR. (One unit) (10-12)

DIY HOME IMPROVEMENT:  In this course, students will gain the knowledge and skills to be able to use hand and power tools safely. Students will also gain knowledge in how to read measurements and how to use measuring tools.They will also learn how to do basic home repairs and/or home improvement.Students will also learn how to figure material list and the cost of basic home repair/improvement needs. (One unit) (10-12)

NATIONAL SAFE TRACTOR AND MACHINERY OPERATION:  The National Safe Tractor and Machinery Operation Program (NSTMOP) is a project of the United State Department of Agriculture Cooperative States Research, Education and Extension Service's Hazardous Occupations Safety Training for Agriculture (HOSTA) Program. In this course, students will learn about safety basics, agricultural hazards, tractors, connecting and using implements with tractors and materials handling. Testing includes a written exam along with skills and driving tests. Completing the NSTMOP constitutes compliance with the training requirements of the U.S. Department of Labor's Hazardous Occupations Order in Agriculture (AGHOs) law.  Students can earn a credential in this program area through their agriculture classes.  (One unit) (10-12)

BASICS OF EARLY CHILDHOOD DEVELOPMENT: This course introduces students to responsible nurturing and basic applications of child development theory with children from infancy through age six.  Areas of study include parenthood decisions, child care issues, prenatal development and care, and development and care of infants, toddlers, and children three through six.  Emphasis is on responsibilities of parents, readiness for parenting, and the influence parents have on children while providing care and guidance.  Art, English language arts, and science are reinforced.   Work-based learning strategies appropriate for this course include service learning and job shadowing.  Apprenticeship and cooperative education are not available for this course.  Family, Career and Community Leaders of America (FCCLA) competitive events, community service, and leadership activities provide the opportunity to apply essential standards and workplace readiness skills through authentic experiences. (One unit) (10-12)

GRAPHIC DESIGN: 

Intro to Graphic Design will focus on how people communicate visually and how to utilize design thinking to help students prepare for any occupational or academic field they may choose. “Utilizing a language of type and imagery, graphic designers try to make every aspect of our lives defined and beautiful.”

DEBATE: This is a general study of the techniques of interscholastic debate. Students are involved in detailed and extensive analysis of debate theory and technique with application of skills in competition. Help in guiding and developing novice debaters is an inherent part of the class work. Students enrolled in this course will compete at a regional debate competition by the completion of the course. (One unit) (10-12)

JOURNALISM: Students will generate and publish news articles for our local newspaper, The Courier Times. Students will work to generate article ideas and conduct interviews. After they have gathered enough information to write an article that is at least 300 words, they will work to draft, edit, revise, and publish the article. This class is for students who are strong writers who can work under strict deadlines and enjoy presenting in print and broadcast media forms. Application Required. (One unit) (9-12)

MYTHOLOGY: This course will examine several questions: What are the origins and functions of mythology? What mythologies exist in different cultures and how do they differ from one culture to the next? What does a culture’s mythology indicate about its people? What is the difference between “myth,” “legend,” and “folktale”? What is the purpose of a ritual? What rituals do people continue to celebrate today and why? What mythological allusions can be found in our daily lives?  In order to answer these questions, course readings will include mythology and folklore from a variety of cultures, encompassing Greek, Roman, First Nation, Norse, Asian, African myths as well as modern cultural legends in the making. Major archetypes, or recurring patterns in mythology, are studied and applied to contemporary literature and the arts. (One unit) (10-12)

YOUNG ADULT LITERATURE: The purpose of the course is to develop student interest in reading! In addition to reading, students will discuss themes that directly relate to their lives, helping them create a deeper understanding of themselves through literature. (One unit) (10-12)

INTRO to STEM MATH: Intro to STEM Math will provide students with a STEM experience by focusing on integrated applications of Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics. 

SAT/ACT Prep: Students will not only review material that will assist them in performing well on the content of the tests, but also will learn test-taking strategies for each test. (One unit) (10-11)

BIOMEDICAL SCIENCE:Biomedical scientists focus on how cells, organs and systems function in the human body; an exciting and dynamic area that is highly relevant to the understanding and treatment of human diseases. Prerequisites: Honors Biology and Honors Chemistry (One unit) (11-12)

CSI FUNDAMENTALS OF BIOMETRIC EVIDENCE: In this course, students will explore the major investigative techniques currently used by biometric scientists and analysts to develop an understanding of the scientific concepts which serve as the basis for identification of persons of interest in criminal and terrorist cases. Prerequisite: C average or higher in previous science course (One unit) (10-12)

ENVIROTHON: This course provides and promotes leadership in the knowledge of natural resources by offering a quality education program in: soils/land use, forestry, aquatic ecology, wildlife/habitat and current issues to the teachers, students and citizens of North Carolina. Students in this course will compete in the state Envirothon competition in April/May. Prerequisite: Earth and Environmental Science (One unit) (10-12)

FORENSIC SCIENCE: Forensic Science is the application of science to those criminal and civil laws that are enforced by police agencies in a criminal justice system. It is a comprehensive subject incorporating Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Entomology, Earth Science, Anatomy and Physiology as well as other aspects of Science. Major topics include processing a crime scene, collecting and preserving evidence, identifying types of physical evidence, organic and inorganic analysis of evidence, hair, fibers, and paint, toxicology, arson and explosion investigations,serology, DNA, fingerprints, firearms, and document analysis. Prerequisite: Successful completion of Biology, Chemistry, and Math 3 and an A/B average in previous English course. (One unit) (11-12) 

HUMAN ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY:  This course is designed to introduce students to the concepts of human anatomy and physiology.  Students will be able to identify and describe the parts of the human body, understand the uses and purposes of the parts of the human body, as well as understanding the organization of the body, cells and tissues, and major systems.   Morphological and physiological aspects will be integrated throughout the course. (One unit) (11-12) 

SCIENCE IN SCIENCE FICTION FILMS: Students will watch and find errors in science fiction films based upon their knowledge of science.  There will be required seminars periodically throughout the year to discuss the films and the science in them.  This course is designed for 11 - 12th graders that are interested in exploring their knowledge of science. (One unit) (11-12) 

SCIENCE OLYMPIAD: The class is designed for the student to explore and apply scientific knowledge and concepts for team competition. Projects involve scientific problem solving, real ­life applications of science concepts, and research and exploration of science concepts. The class will also help students learn how to problem solve as a scientific team in order to complete tasks efficiently and successfully. Competitions include (but are not limited to): building and analyzing roller coasters; egg drops; bridge building and testing; designing and testing rockets; constructing and using a solar cooker, and more. Students in this course will compete in at least one Science Olympiad tournament offered throughout the state. Prerequisites: B or higher in Physical Science, Physics, or Chemistry. (One unit) (10-12)

AFRICAN-AMERICAN STUDIES: African American Studies is a conceptually driven course that introduces students to the exploration of the rich and diverse history and culture of African Americans.  The goal of this course is to broaden the knowledge and understandings of students interested in learning about the histories, cultures and economic, geographic and political realities of African Americans. This course should provide students with an opportunity to engage with the social, economic and political activities of African Americans in a way that allows them to make deep connections across the content.  The historical content of this course should be taught with relevance to contemporary and current issues in order to ensure a deeper understanding for students. (One unit) (10-12)

AMERICAN CONFLICT: This course will offer an in depth study of American wars and conflicts. The focus of this course will be the causes and effects, development of new technology, the impact on American culture, and battle strategies of major wars and conflicts involving the United States. This would build upon AHI and AHII content and prior knowledge. 

AMERICAN HUMANITIES: The humanities can be described as the study of the various ways in which people, from every period of history, process and document the human experience. Since humans have been able, we have used history, literature, religion, philosophy, art, music, and language to understand and record our world. The course accentuates a variety of voices representative of the American experience over time, including popular culture. Prerequisite: AH l and AH ll OR Turning Points and AP US History  (One unit) (11-12)

COLD WAR: This course will examine the ways in which the Cold War has influenced major political, economic, and foreign policy issues . Modern global relations involving the United States and other countries, regions, and networks such as Iran, North Korea, Afghanistan, Iraq, Latin America, and Al Qaeda all have connections to the Cold War. Prerequisite: AH l and AH ll OR Turning Points and AP US History (One unit) (11-12)

RELIGIOUS STUDIES: Spiritual beliefs provide meaning and inspiration for the four major religions. This course will allow students to explore, compare and contrast the world’s religions while offering students opportunities to see and think in new ways, opening possibilities for richer, deeper lives. 

SOCIAL AWARENESS*: The course looks into current world, national, state, and local issues as a format for understanding important aspects of society such as race and racism, gun control and gun violence, immigration, the human impact on the environment, as well as current political and social issues.  (One unit) (10th grade)

SOCIOLOGY*: This is an elective course centered on the behavior of people in groups. Topics included are socialization, institutions, social interaction, social change, collective behavior, and competition in society. (One unit) (10-12)

BASEBALL FUNDAMENTALS:  This course focuses on a variety of topics surrounding the sport of baseball. From fundamentals of the game to the use of technology, this course will offer an in-depth look at several aspects of America’s Favorite Pastime. Other topics will include turf management, film study, situational baseball, the mental aspect, and the breakthroughs in technology for the game. (One unit) (10-12)

FOOTBALL DEFENSIVE STRATEGIES: In this course, students will develop an understanding and knowledge of the defensive side of football. Specific topics of instruction will be run and pass responsibilities, how to break down film, effective attacks on different offenses, when and how to blitz, and making good decisions in certain situations in order to be a more successful player of the game.  (One unit) (10-12)

LIFETIME SPORTS: Through the participation in several sports, students will gain the knowledge necessary to become an educated participant and spectator. The involvement in specific sports will provide an atmosphere that is enjoyable to the participants, promotes cooperation among peers and develop an appreciation for the degree of fitness necessary to participate. The following sports are included in the course Lifetime Sports: Tennis, Badmitton, Bowling, Volleyball, Golf, Washers, Shuffleboard, Basketball, Ultimate Frisbee/Football, Ping Pong, Soccer and other games. (One unit) (10-12)

HISTORY OF SPORTS: This class provides students with a comprehensive history of sports. We will begin by examining the origin of athletics and the ways that popular sports and rules have changed over time. During the course of the school year we will cover controversy in sports (fights, steroids, rivalries, etc…), civil rights, sports tragedies, humor in sports, athletic finances and franchises, college recruitment, bracketology, and many other sports related topics.  (One unit) (10-12)

SPORTS and EVENTS PRODUCTION: In this course, students will learn how to use equipment and programs from Daktronics to create digital scoreboard displays for athletic events. Daktronics is the major manufacturer and supplier of video boards to Universities throughout the U.S.  Successful completion of the course will require students to attend athletic events held outside of the regular school day. (One unit) (10-12)

FRENCH LITERATURE: This course is designed as a pre-collegiate survey course in French Literature. The literature covers a wide range of genres, including novels, short stories, poetry, philosophy, journalistic exposés, etc. Students will continue their study of the French language through translations and interpretations of the target language from a variety of literary genres, including an in-depth study of more advanced vocabulary and grammar concepts from the target language. Students will also become more familiar with French culture through the lens of French literature as it is presented across various genres and time periods. Prerequisite: French IV (One unit) (11-12)

FINANCIAL LITERACY: Throughout life we face numerous personal finance choices and decisions. For some of us, the process of making decisions is at best haphazard. Analyzing a situation, identifying our choices, and making informed decisions are processes that can be learned and practiced. In this course created and provided by the State Employees Credit Union (at no charge), students will learn  how to set long- and short-term personal and financial goals; create and work with a personal budget; identify how and when to use credit; save and invest; and understand the basics of banking services.  Students will also learn to  recognize behaviors and situations that can lead to a financial downswing; clues to recognize when a budget is in trouble; and the options available with a failing budget. (One unit) (10-12)

LIBRARY ASSISTANT: This course is designed to encourage students who are interested in the library to learn more about what goes into making the school library useful to students and staff. Students in the course will be expected to diligently complete daily tasks such as shelving and shelf reading. They will also be expected to exercise their use of time management, research and creative skills to complete the assignments that are a part of the course. (One unit) (10-12)

PEER GROUP CONNECTIONS Honors: Peer Group Connection (PGC) for High Schools is an evidence-based program that supports and eases students’ successful transition from middle to high school. The program taps into the power of high school juniors and seniors to create a nurturing environment for incoming freshmen. Once per week, pairs of junior and senior peer leaders meet with groups of 10-14 freshmen in outreach sessions designed to strengthen relationships among students across grades. These peer leaders are simultaneously enrolled in a daily, for-credit, year-long leadership course taught by school faculty during regular school hours. Application and interview required. (One unit) (11-12)

PUBLIC SPEAKING: This course prepares students for a variety of academic and other situations in which formal presentations are required. Topics will include cultural conventions and speech, perceptions of others, verbal and nonverbal messages, and techniques of oral presentation and persuasion. Students will learn how to research, outline, and deliver short, informal presentations as well as longer speeches. This course will give students the opportunity to develop and strengthen skills in preparing and presenting public oral presentations in a variety of situations. It should also sharpen students’ skills in critical listening. Speaking clearly and comfortably in public is a valuable and often essential skill to possess. This course aims to provide students with a basic background in the theories and principles of public speaking, as well as practical experience with the basic types of speeches. (One unit) (10-12)

YEARBOOK: Students will publish the yearbook. They learn the techniques of advertising, yearbook layout design, copy writing, and/or photography. Application required. (One unit) (10-12)