Graduation Requirements

Course Descriptions

We ask that students refer to the Program of Studies to learn about graduation requirements and course offerings for Freshmen, however course descriptions for those courses open to Freshmen are also listed below.

Art Classes

Visual Studies                              1602          

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

This preliminary course is designed to introduce the student to the visual world and make them more aware of the great potential and importance of visual perception. Students will explore design, composition, and color, while emphasizing the elements of art in a variety of mediums.  The course is oriented to form a sound basic introduction to studio art but also includes areas of art appreciation and criticism.  A grade of C or better in this course or a portfolio approved waiver is recommended for entrance into all other art elective courses.

Applied Technology Center Classes

Business Essentials                    1415   

1 Credit                Grade 9

Come and sample the Business, Accounting, and Marketing programs! This high-level, fast-paced, introductory course develops students’ understanding of business fundamentals with learnings structured around timely, real-world, case studies and examples. Students will gain the foundational skills needed in business, accounting, and marketing to allow them to be successful no matter which courses they choose to dive deeper into throughout their high school career.

Course skills: time management, self-directed, teamwork, communication

Prerequisite: None 

Introduction to Culinary Arts              1836     

1 Credit               Grades 9-10

Introduction of Culinary Arts is a hands-on experience, focusing on the preparation of appetizers, soups, salads, breads, main dishes, sides, and desserts. Students will gain experience and knowledge through teacher demonstrations, research projects and food labs. There is emphasis on kitchen safety, basic knife skills and safe food handling. In addition, students will gain knowledge in basic nutrition, culinary history, food traditions and careers in the hospitality industry.

Introduction to Multimedia               1880

1 Credit              Grade 9

Are you a fan of digital drawing? Ever wonder how you can make amazing social media videos right from your cell phone? Want to learn more about Cell Phone Photography and Videography? An Introduction to Multimedia is the very first stepping stone towards either the Graphic Arts or Video Production CTE programs. This entry level class will introduce you to the concepts of working with digital media, introduce concepts of both Photography and Videography via cell phones or cameras in everyday life (Chromebook), and career exploration within the fields of Graphic Design and Video Production.

Prerequisite: None

Introduction to S.T.E.M.  (Science, Technology, Engineering & Math)                    1020

1 Credit               Grade 9 & 10

This one-semester course provides a sampling of topics covered in our STEM programs as well  

as foundational STEAM topics. There are six areas of focus which include mechanical engineering, civil engineering, manufacturing engineering, electrical engineering, robotics, and architecture. A major strength of the course is its emphasis on hands-on experience, teamwork, and problem-solving. To achieve this, students follow the engineering design process in a sequential order starting with basic design and going all the way to model fabrication. 

Prerequisite: none

Woodworking   Technology      1700

1 Credit          Grades 9-12

Students will learn the safe use of hand and stationary power tools for cabinet making, home repair and a wide variety of construction occupations. Students learn to work from a project plan, a bill of materials, and assembly instructions. The accurate use of layout tools is also stressed. 

Music Classes

Advanced Vocal Studies       

Full Year (1 Credit)                         1691                             

Semester I or II (1/2 Credit)      1692             

Grade 9-12                             

This class is designed for vocal students who have already reached high levels of achievement in both choral and solo singing, and are actively pursuing outside performance opportunities such as musical theatre, All State, a cappella ensembles, local community and church choirs, and college auditions. Students will focus on both solo and ensemble singing. Students enrolled in Advanced Vocal Studies are expected to enroll in Mixed Chorus for at least one semester in the year. Advanced Vocal Studies meets every other day, opposite Mixed Chorus.

Note: This class meets every other day (opposite Mixed Chorus)

Requirement:  Attendance at all dress rehearsals and performances is mandatory. 

Audio Engineering                              1673    

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Students learn the fundamentals of recording, playback, and sound reinforcement equipment operation, microphone selection & placement, sound engineering in live and studio situations, and a history of music technology.  Students use soundtrap and Apple’s GarageBand to create music, as well as support major MHS events including music department concerts, school assemblies, and graduation.  Students are required to complete projects in and out of class.  Students produce portfolios suitable for collegiate music technology programs.  This course fulfills the Fine Arts requirement for graduation.  There are no prerequisites.

Band:  Concert & Marching              1679    

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Band is available to all students who play a band instrument, and to those wishing to begin playing a band instrument.   Students learn to improve their musical ability by rehearsing and performing a wide variety of repertoire.  Topics of study include sound production, performance technique, ensemble playing, phrasing and style.  Ensembles may rehearse in different groups based on experience and ability. Band performs both as a concert band and marching band, and is a year long course. It meets every other day opposite the jazz band. Students not enrolled in jazz band will have a study or off block for upperclassmen. Participation in all events is required.  Performances include concerts, festivals, assemblies, competitions, football games, and community functions such as parades.  School instruments are available for borrowing.*  This course fulfills the Fine Arts requirement for graduation.  No pre-requisite required, although a background in music is encouraged.

Requirement:  Attendance at all dress rehearsals and performances is mandatory. 

SUMMER BAND CAMP  - In order to prepare for the fall football field show and parades all Band and Color Guard members are required to attend a week long camp to be held at Milford High School during the latter part of August (dates to be announced—visit MHS website for more information). Students with conflicts should contact the director.

NOTE: Fall sports participants are encouraged to also participate in Band and Color Guard

Beginning Guitar                   1676    

1 Credit               Grades 9-12                

This course is designed for students with no previous guitar experience. Students will receive guidance and direction in solving problems related to playing the guitar at a beginning level and will learn many of the different styles, skills and techniques required to become a successful guitarist. Areas of concentration include: performance technique and posture, instrument maintenance and care, note reading and music literacy, chord formation, aural skills, rhythmic patterns, finger-picking and strumming styles, musical forms, improvisation, and performing experiences.

Chimes & Bells Ensemble + Modern Band (must be taken together)

Chimes & Bells Ensemble            1696

.5 credit            Grades 9-12     (quarter-length class)

This course will teach students to play handbells and/or improve upon their handbell ringing skills.  While reading music is helpful, you don't need to read music to play in this ensemble!  No prior experience with handbells is needed for this course.  Students will learn various basic handbell techniques and music literacy, and rehearse and perform a wide variety of handbell literature at an intermediate level.  The handbell choir will learn all types of music from "Carol of the Bells" to the latest songs you hear every day.  Students in this course will form an MHS handbell choir that will perform at a music department concert.  Students taking this course will be encouraged to continue playing handbells in college and in their community throughout life.

Modern Band                 1697

.5 credit            Grades 9-12   (quarter-length class)

Modern Band is a music program that utilizes popular music as its central curriculum, utilizing (but not limited to) the musical instruments that are common to these genres: guitar, bass, drums, piano, and voice. Modern Band teaches students to perform both music they know and music they will explore to read and understand music, and to compose and improvise.  Styles that are studied include rock, pop, hip-hop, rhythm & blues, jazz, country, and other contemporary styles as they emerge.  Students are expected to be proficient at a basic level on their instrument of choice, but beginners will be accommodated and included fully.  Students will have the opportunity to learn a secondary instrument in this course.  Students who play by ear will learn to read music as well.

Mixed Chorus                                              

Full Year (1 Credit)                   1685                                  

Semester I or II (1/2 Credit)      1688  

Grades 9-12

A variety of vocal styles and genres are studied and performed. Music reading is also emphasized.  The chorus performs at various concerts at the school and in the community throughout the school year. Students are encouraged to enroll for the full year if at all possible.  Mixed Chorus meets every other day, opposite Advanced Vocal Studies.

Note: This class meets every other day (opposite Advanced Vocal Studies)

Requirement:  Attendance at all dress rehearsals and performances is mandatory. 

Music and Other Cultures            1693                                                                                                      

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Music is considered to be a universal language amongst different cultures and countries. Every country and culture uses music in its daily life in some way. Music is used for celebrations, events, passing of oral traditions, entertainment, and much more. This course is a non-performance based class and will explore the music of different countries and cultures. Its primary focus will be music, but it will also explore and examine other aspects of each country's culture including but not limited to; history, visual art, theater, food, clothing, and so much more.   

Music Theory 1674    

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Students learn about the structure of music by studying pitch and rhythmic notation, scale and chord function, transposition, and aural and dictation skills.  An emphasis is placed on chord structure and four-part chorale style composition.  Students complete a variety of assignments that will prepare them for a future in music, including college level courses.  Upon completion of this course, students may choose to take the AP Music Theory test.  This course  fulfills the Fine Arts requirement for graduation.  No pre-requisite required, although a background in music is encouraged.

Piano Lab                         1694    

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

This course will provide students with introductory experiences on the keyboard in performance skills and interpretation of simple notation. Content includes the development of music fundamentals, appropriate vocabulary, and listening skills. Students will develop the ability to perform keyboard selections by using correct fingering and hand positions. The student will demonstrate an intermediate knowledge of music reading and vocabulary, play root chords, scales, and chord progressions. Students will learn traditional piano notation, and delve into "fake book" chordal notation and improvisation as well. Pieces in pop music and a variety of genres will be learned. 

Songwriting                     1675    

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Creative writing of music and lyrics with an emphasis on today's marketplace.  Students will be motivated to learn about the craft of songwriting and will want to apply what they have learned directly.  This course is open to all students regardless of musical background; however, some knowledge of music and/or creative writing is helpful.  Students will develop multiple approaches to starting and finishing a song, learn about the essential components and forms of a song, explore a variety of genres, compose melodies and harmonies, write and develop effective and creative lyrics, evaluate and respond to a wide variety of music, record and share their work using modern techniques.  

Survey of Musical Theatre                    1695                         

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Survey of Musical Theatre is a non-performance class in which students study Musical Theatre as a unique art form. Focuses of the class are musical theatre in our history and culture, the writers, composers, choreographers, and performers of Musical Theatre, mental health and social issues in musical theatre, and a history of musical theatre. We'll also go in-depth to explore questions such as: How accurate is the history portrayed in Hamilton and Six? Do musicals such as Mean Girls accurately portray the life of an average high-schooler? How has Broadway been ahead of the times in terms of social justice, civil rights, etc.? Could Evan have really pulled off the fake email chain in Dear Evan Hansen? What are the merits- both financial and artistic- of movie adaptations such as Groundhog Day and Mrs. Doubtfire? How could Jenna have gotten help in her situation in Waitress? What made Sponge Bob the Musical a surprise hit? What aspects of Lin-Manuel Miranda’s compositions are found in Hamilton, In the Heights, and Bring It On? There’s so much to explore in  the world of musical theatre and how it relates to our culture. 

Family & Consumer Science Classes

Italian Cooking and Culture            1740    

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Students learn about culture and cuisine in Italy while gaining vocabulary and conversation skills in Italian language. They will prepare popular dishes native to various regions of Italy and learn which ingredients and flavor profiles are part of Italian cuisine. Students will research and complete classroom-based assignments along with the practical labs to reinforce the application of material covered. Students prepare recipes including bread, pasta, poultry, soups, meats and assorted desserts.

Theatre Arts

Theatre Arts I                   1660    

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Theatre Arts I is designed for those with a strong interest in the performing arts.  Through creative dramatics, improvisation, monologues, and scene work, students develop and enhance acting skills.  Students are also exposed to all areas of technical theatre through a “hands on” approach.  Opportunities exist to participate in set construction and design, lighting, sound, and properties for major productions.  Theatre Arts I classes are integral to the support of school productions and, in addition to work in promotion and fundraising, all students are expected to devote 10 hours outside of class to major or laboratory productions.

World Language Classes

French 1 (CCP)                 2600

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

French I introduces students to the Francophone world by developing their ability to understand, speak, read, and write in French. Emphasis is on developing and using vocabulary, grammar and linguistics in the context of daily living. Students make connections between their lives and the lives of French speaking people.

French 2 (CCP)                 2601

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

French II offers students the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the French language and their ability to communicate. Emphasis is on applying vocabulary, grammar and linguistics through listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities expanding their knowledge of the cultures.

Prerequisite:  Mastery of the core competencies of French 1

Spanish 1 (CCP)                   2604

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Spanish I familiarize students with the Spanish world, cultivating their skills in comprehension, reading, and writing in Spanish. The focus is on mastering fundamental language structures through a range of short stories featuring commonly used vocabulary. Additionally, the course broadens students' awareness of the diverse cultures within the Spanish global community.   

Spanish 2 (CCP)             2605

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

Spanish II offers students the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the Spanish language and their ability to communicate . Emphasis continues on acquiring newer and more complex vocabulary structures through listening, some speaking, reading and writing activities while expanding their knowledge of the Spanish cultures around the world.

Prerequisite:  Mastery of core competencies of Spanish 1

Latin 1 (CCP)                      2609

1 Credit                   Grades 9-12

Latin I introduces students to the Romans, their language, culture, history, geography and mythology by developing their ability to read, understand, write and communicate in Latin.  The presentation of Latin vocabulary gives attention to English derivatives and similarities in the words of other languages. Students make connections to their lives and the lives of the ancient Romans.

Prerequisite: C or better in English 8  

Latin 2 (CCP)                    2610

1 Credit               Grades 10-12

Latin II continues the study of Latin I by offering students the opportunity to expand their knowledge of the language and of the ancient Roman civilization while making connections to contemporary society. Emphasis is on applying Latin vocabulary, grammar, and linguistics through listening, reading, writing, and translation activities.

Prerequisite:  Mastery of core competencies of Latin 1

Exploring World Cultures                  0597                 

1 Credit               Grades 9-11

Exploring World Cultures offers students an exposure to other peoples of the world, their culture, fashion, food, important peoples, and other activities such as dance, music, past times, literature.  Students will develop an understanding of the peoples with whom we share this planet.

Medical Terminology: Exercises in Etymology (Std. A)                0598    

1 Credit               Grades 9-12

The Medical Terminology – Exercises in Etymology course introduces students to modern medical terminology based on an understanding of etymology, the study of word origins. Students will learn both Greek and Latin prefixes, roots, and suffixes with examples from culture, mythology, and the medical practices of the ancient Greeks and Romans.

Prerequisite: C or better in English