Classes labeled DUAL are Dual Credit classes, meaning you can earn college credit for them. Classes labeled AP are Advanced Placement classes.
Welcome to Ida B. Wells-Barnett High School!
Most things you need to forecast for classes for the 2022-2023 school year are outlined below. For a successful forecasting experience, please carefully read and complete Steps 1-3. Then, move on to Steps 4 and 5 - filling out Forecasting Google Form. This form is the only item that needs to be submitted and it finalizes your choices for the 2021-2022 school year. The deadline to submit your Forecasting is February 4, 2022.
Grade: 9 Prerequisite: None
Ninth-grade language arts students in English 1-2 examine the major genres through four themes related to personal identity and heroism making meaningful connections within and beyond texts. They read a balance of contemporary and classic works—short stories, essays, novels, poetry, dramas, and nonfiction—that encourages them to make inferences and to look at the world through archetypal patterns while building writing, reading, speaking, listening, viewing, and study skills.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: ELPA scores level 1 or 2; concurrent enrollment in an English class Notes: EL (elective) credit
This course focuses on emerging bi-lingual students. We will use adopted textbooks, short stories and selected novels to begin preparing students for high school course work. The use of current events, maps, graphs, charts, a learning log, and various pieces of literature reinforce listening, speaking, reading and writing skills. Cooperative learning gives chances for social interaction and oral language development. This course must be taken in conjunction with a mainstream English class.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: ELPA score level 3 or 4; concurrent enrollment in a English course Notes: EL (elective) credit
No description provided.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
This is the math course for most incoming 9th graders.
In this course, students study two and three-dimensional shapes and their relationships in plane and space. It is a visual as well as analytical subject, integrating spatial and numerical concepts. Students classify and describe shapes in terms of congruence, similarity and transformations. The course introduces students to different forms of mathematical logic, including inductive and deductive reasoning. Students solve measurement and algebraic problems using properties, proportions, and trigonometric relationships. Algebraic concepts are reviewed with geometric applications. Students use the software available with the TI–84 calculator and/or GeoGebra to deepen their understanding of key ideas. This course is aligned with PPS GVC.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
In this first-year course in algebra, the representation of functions is used as a unifying theme. Students are introduced to linear, quadratic, exponential, and polynomial functions through graphical, numerical and symbolic representations. Students learn to solve linear equations, inequalities, systems of equations, and quadratic equations. They deepen their understanding of basic algebraic concepts using hands on activities, TI–84 calculator lessons, and problem solving and develop confidence in their ability to think mathematically as they work both individually and collaboratively. Homework is required in this class. This course is aligned with PPS GVC.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Algebra 1-2 and Geometry 1-2
This course emphasizes modeling data and problem-solving situations with linear, quadratic, polynomial, exponential, rational, radical and logarithmic functions. The course also introduces students to sequences and series, solving systems with and without matrices, complex numbers, problems in trigonometry and some discrete topics such as probability. Students deepen their understanding of these topics as they work both individually and in groups to solve problems and to apply the mathematics and to communicate their reasoning. Students will use the TI–84 graphing calculator in class to examine these topics. Homework is required in this class. This course is aligned with PPS GVC.
The following support classes can be taken in conjunction with the corresponding math class with teacher recommendation: Students may be preloaded into these support classes prior to forecasting. Elective credit is awarded.
Teachers who are recommending a support class will let you and a parent know that you have been recommended and answer any questions you may have.
Algebra Support
Geometry Workshop
Advanced Algebra Workshop
Grade: 9 Prerequisite: None
This lab-based course is designed to provide the foundation for the other core science classes by covering the fundamental concepts of Physics: motion, forces, momentum, energy, waves, and electromagnetism. Students will design experiments, take data, learn how to use new technologies, and identify patterns in order to create engineering solutions to real world problems that they identify. The Physics: NGSS class guides students by promoting problem solving, innovation, design, and critical thinking. This course is designed to be highly engaging and differentiated for all learners in order to give every student a strong start in the three-year core science sequence.
Grade: 9 Prerequisite: None
This course will explore selected topics in modern world history with a particular focus on the 20th century. Students will learn about the influential people, events, ideas, themes, and patterns that have shaped our world. Units of study we be thematic and regional: world geography, imperialism, Sub-Saharan Africa, World War I, the Holocaust, the Middle East, the Cold War, East Asia, and Latin America. Additionally, students will develop the skills necessary to do the work of historians: critical reading, source analysis, research, and analytical writing.
Must also take another PE half-credit to be completed by end of 10th grade.
Most 9th grade students will take Physical Education 1 paired with Health 1.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Notes: 0.5 HE credit; REQUIRED
Content of this course is centered on developing a holistic understanding of health–related issues. Students will explore a wide range of relevant topics such as: stress management, decision making, fitness, nutrition, chemical dependency, first aid, safe living, AIDS, lifestyle issues, and consumer education. Additional focus will be placed on enhancing each student’s capacity for personal self–assessment, goal setting, and behavior modification.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Notes: 0.5 PE credit
In this course, students will learn dance through a fitness lens. Students will work on building stamina, flexibility, stability, strength and athleticism through fun and energizing dance exercises and Pilates. We will discuss anatomy and kinesiology to address how the body functions as we move. Students will keep track of their dance fitness journey in weekly journal entries. This course is designed for all levels of dance training and can be taken for PE credit.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: PE 1 Notes: 0.5 PE credit; May be taken multiple times
Keep fit and healthy for life. Learn skills that you can take from the yoga mat and incorporate into daily life. Designed for all fitness levels, this class offers an opportunity for you to improve and/or maintain a high level of fitness while increasing flexibility, strength, coordination and balance. In a safe and supportive environment, we'll learn and practice techniques that help manage stress, increase energy levels and connect with yourself. Build the foundation for your lifelong practice.
GR: 9-12 Prerequisite: None (.5 PE credit)
In this course students will learn skills to create lifelong fitness and health routines . Students will learn how to incorporate fitness into their life when they are without gym space and equipment as well as when team sports are hard to engage in. Students will learn about the body, sedentary lifestyle impacts and how fitness leads to reduced diseases and increased overall wellbeing both mentally and physically. Students will work toward additional skills such as goal setting, nature exploration, and stress management. Students will complete 3 rounds of fitness testing that a regular PE course includes to measure starting levels of fitness and improvements.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Be part of Wilson High School’s very first printmaking class! Printmaking is an art form that goes back thousands of years and was employed by the early Mesopotamians, the Chinese and Egyptians. Printmaking is the process of transferring an image from a block, plate or other matrix to paper or textile material in order to make a designated number of the same image. In this class students will carve, etch, cut stencils and create plates to be printed using a printing press and by hand. We will explore collagraph, screen-printing, linoleum cut, etching, drypoint as well as numerous other printmaking techniques. If you are someone who enjoys the creative process, loves to draw and would enjoy learning a new and exciting art form this class is for you!
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Draw–Paint–Print explores problem–solving, creativity, design, and craftsmanship through a variety of two-dimensional media. Draw–Paint–Print will incorporate the visual elements and the principles of design, idea development, and will teach a variety of tools and techniques. This course is designed to give students a broad experience in a variety of materials like graphite, charcoal, ink, colored pencil, oil pastel, watercolor, gouache, acrylic, collage, mixed media, screen-printing and relief printmaking. Students are expected to keep a sketchbook of designs, drawings, and ideas. Hands–on art experiences provide opportunities for a multitude of learning styles, increase student confidence, and can improve overall academic performance.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Notes: 0.5 credit
Learn how to use your cell phone camera to capture amazing images! Gain compositional techniques such as the rule of thirds, the basics of editing images, adjustments, and filters. Experiment with apps to elevate your camera roll, and strengthen your sense of design, while developing an online photography presence. Explore the career and artistic benefits your cell phone has to offer. Apply methods to improve portraits, landscapes, foodography, IG posts, animated GIFs, and short videos such as stop animation. Students will have vast opportunities to interact with each other and nature. All you need is a cell phone camera and a willingness to capture the world around you!
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Students will develop and refine skills and understanding needed to successfully support a theatrical production visually, including costuming, makeup, and others in a fun social environment. This class is intended for the person who enjoys hands-on work or wants to learn more about the costuming side of theatre. Students will have the opportunity to work to their experience, skill, and motivation level within the class, with curriculum tailored to that level...growth is our goal!
Note: This class may be taken multiple times for credit.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Students will develop and refine their skills in acting through different acting approaches and processes. Students will rehearse and perform a variety of scenes, monologues, and auditions to expand their flexibility in performance and hone their acting technique. Students will have the opportunity to work to their experience, skill, and motivation level within the class, with curriculum tailored to that level...growth is our goal!
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Students will develop and refine the skills and understanding needed to successfully support theatre productions technically, including carpentry, sound, lighting, painting, and others in a fun, social environment. This class is intended for the person who enjoys hands-on work or wants to learn more about the technical side of theatre. Students will have the opportunity to work to their experience, skill, and motivation level within the class, with curriculum tailored to that level...growth is our goal!
Grade: 9 Prerequisite: Participation in middle school band program.
Ensemble for 9th grade band students. This course stresses music education through performance. A variety of musical styles will be performed. Musical technique for both individual and ensemble will be stressed. This group performs for school athletic events, assemblies, parades, and concerts. Students are also encouraged to participate in solo/ensemble festival in the spring.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Minimum 2 years strings playing experience. Audition recommended.
Students taking this class are eligible to earn PCC college credit simultaneously with high school credit. For more information: http://www.pcc.edu and http://www.pcc.edu/dualcredit. This course focuses on medium to advanced chamber music for string orchestra at the high school level. Students work together to create a small, cohesive, self-conducted ensemble capable of excellence in many styles of repertoire. Rehearsals include sight-reading, ear-training, building playing skills, music theory and detailed preparation of various works written or adapted for string chamber orchestra. Out of class requirements: extra rehearsals, numerous required performances and competitions.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
This course is the study of music fundamentals through the performance on the guitar. Students will learn to play the guitar in a classical style while incorporating music reading, rhythm training and basic music fundamentals. Students must provide their own acoustic guitar for this class.
GR: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Students will learn the basic principles of playing piano at an introductory level. Students will learn to read sheet music in both treble and bass clefs as well as solidifying reading rhythms. Basic music theory will be taught throughout the year.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Basic pitch matching strongly recommended. Notes: 0.5 credit; May be repeated multiple times
This is a Full Year course. Students will be given opportunities to improve their basic choral musicianship skills through choral performance preparation in addition to regular in-class rehearsals which include sight-singing, ear training, choral tone building and basic music theory. This course is designed for mixed voices. Out of class requirements: occasional extra rehearsals and required performances.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Notes: 0.5 PE credit
In this course, students will learn dance through a fitness lens. Students will work on building stamina, flexibility, stability, strength and athleticism through fun and energizing dance exercises and Pilates. We will discuss anatomy and kinesiology to address how the body functions as we move. Students will keep track of their dance fitness journey in weekly journal entries. This course is designed for all levels of dance training and can be taken for PE credit.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Notes: All dance can be taken in lieu of PE- speak to your counselor for details.
This class is an introductory class to dance and movement. Students will explore contemporary dance, jazz, and ballet. This class aims to give students the building blocks to grow their technique. Learning how to stand correctly, stretch and condition the body, and move through space with intention are all components of this class. Students will be asked to use musicality and creativity to create movement phrases of their own, as well as learning larger phrases from the instructors.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Dance 1-2
This class builds on the concepts covered in Dance 1-2. More focus will be directed toward the technique and execution of contemporary and jazz dance. This class will challenge students to use every bit of space around them and to use their bodies fully. Improvisation will also be introduced at this level. Knowledge of all basic positions of the feet and arms and dance vocabulary is a must. Students will be graded on participation, dressing down, and demonstrating the use of learned dance concepts.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Dance 1-2 and Dance 3-4
This is an advanced dance class that includes a progressive warm-up followed by across-the-floor and regular phrase work. The class moves at a quick pace and students can expect a demanding workout. Students can also expect several opportunities to choreograph and perform as part of this class. This class focuses on jazz dance, contemporary, improvisation and choreographic methods. Students will be graded on participation, dressing down, and skills tests. This is a yearlong commitment, as students will perform at the end of the school year in the annual IBW Dance Program Showcase.
Grade: 9 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5
Students will learn the basics of audio engineering through using a combination of audio workstations and doing fun activities that are designed to introduce them to many important basic concepts related to recording, producing, mixing audio. We will be using GarageBand, SoundTrap, and/or Pro Tools. This course is the study of music recording technologies. Students will work with digital and analog materials to record music. Students will work with different interfaces to assist with writing, recording, mixing and mastering music of different genres. This course will also introduce music theory and notation to those who have not had a classical background.
Grade: 9 Prerequisite: None Notes: 0.5 credit
Love board games? Interested in learning more about how they are made? In this semester long, project-based course students will spend their time playing, studying and making board games. A wide variety of game styles will be explored giving students a chance to learn about gameplay mechanics, the importance of theme/setting, graphic design and more. The culminating project of this course will be a team project where students design and publish their own board game!
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Have you ever dreamed about making the next great app, website or game? This course is the first step in that journey! The course aims to explore the topic of computer science broadly, looking at how it connects to real world topics like the environment, finance and social justice. Our goal is to give students with no experience an opportunity to explore programming. Students will develop a personal website using HTML/CSS (and learn how to optimize it for mobile screens), create and code their own game and learn Python (one of the most widely used programming languages in science, finance and academic research).
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Advanced Algebra or higher-level math course or completion of Comp Sci. 1-2
Come join our award-winning CS department! CS 3-4 is a chance to create with technology and learn to solve problems through programming. This college-level course lets students take a deep dive into coding (typically using C++, one of the most widely used programming languages in the world) by developing games, apps and solving challenging coding puzzles. In addition to coding skills, students will develop robust problem-solving strategies and learn how to break complicated tasks into clear, concise instructions – something that is valuable to any student looking towards college, career and beyond. The course is organized to have students tackle a series of small projects (Quarters 1-3) and then propose and complete their own project to finish the year (perfect for building a portfolio for applying to college, summer programs and internships). This course can earn credit at PCC as CS161 and is a core class in the Computer Science CTE track.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Woodworking: Learn how to use various woodworking tools and machines safely. Students will build introductory projects such as cutting boards and storage boxes. Individual projects will follow as time allows. Projects are designed to allow the student to gain an insight into the wood industry by safely using various machines and equipment to fabricate a finished project using accurate measuring skills and knowledge to produce a high-quality project. Metalworking: Learn valuable basic metal working skills in the areas of sheet metal fabrication, gas and arc welding, foundry and forging while exploring the basic processes used by industry to manufacture metal products. Students will construct both assigned projects and others of their choice while developing the skills which are a necessity for entry into jobs of a mechanical nature. This course is required for CTE honors.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Physics
This hands-on, project-based course is structured to provide students with an introduction to engineering design, overview of engineering specializations, and exploration of engineering ethics. Students will become familiar with a standard engineering design process, which is utilized in a variety of activities, maker challenges, and student-designed projects. Emphasis is also placed on the importance of documentation and clarity of technical communication. Students enrolled in this course should be self-motivated and have a strong interest in creative problem-solving.
Grade: 9-11 Prerequisite: None Notes: 0.5 credit
Do you like show such as Gray’s Anatomy, Scrubs or the Good Doc and live vicariously through on-screen doctors, nurses and hospital techs… NOW is the perfect time to consider a career in medicine! This course provides an overview of the health care professions that include employment trends, continued education requirements, ethics, current health issues, and job/career exploration. Students will become knowledgeable in the prevention, interaction and care of patients. Students will also have the opportunity to practice skills related to the medical/health care field. Upon completion of this course, the students will earn 2 credits of college credit through Portland Community College and have an opportunity to obtain their certifications in Blood Borne Pathogen and First Aid/CPR & AED (both of which are industry standard certificates and meet requirements for post-secondary employment).
GR: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5
This class is designed for the students interested in gaining knowledge of everyday business concepts and learning to utilize Microsoft’s Office Suite. The course features the most common Microsoft Office applications and develops skills using MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Access. Additionally, this class provides an overview of internet basics and file management. The class also emphasizes communication skills, presentation skills, vocabulary, and understanding key concepts that are valuable for an individual in the business world. This course is the recommended as an exploratory/introductory course in the Ida B. Wells-Barnett Business/Marketing Program, but is also very useful for all other students who are not planning to take additional business courses.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None Credit: .5
Introduction to Business is a course designed to survey the fields of business including topics such as management, finance accounting, marketing, production, computers, international business, small business, investments and other areas of general business interest. The course exposes the interested students to many functions of modern business and shows them how these functions exist in a changing society and the type of decisions which must be made within that environment. This course will also expose students to the multitude of career fields in the areas of business and highlight the importance of business and business ethics in the modern society.
GR 9-11 Prerequisite: none (0.5 credit)
This class is designed around conversation, skill-building and collaboration to uplift student voice and prepare youth for a role in reporting and publications. We will analyze and evaluate media, we will learn about rights and responsibilities, we will interview and craft stories, and we will learn the basics of hard news and feature writing. We will also have unique opportunities to get coaching and training from professional journalists. Students will have the option to have their pieces be included in the student-run publication, The Headlight, throughout the course.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
American Sign Language (ASL) 1-2 is for students with no prior or minimal skills and knowledge of ASL. It includes the study of the history, structure, and grammar of ASL. In addition, students will learn of the historical and cultural contexts of the Deaf community. ASL is a visual, spatial, gestural language that utilizes space and movement to convey meaning. You will develop communication skills of which you are not accustomed to using hands, face, body, eyes, and space. In order to progress, it is important that you “listen” with your eyes. To encourage and foster the development of ASL, spoken language (talking) is not used during the majority of the class.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
This introductory course is designed for students with little or no previous study of French. A focus on comprehensible input and contextualized repetition will enable students to begin acquiring French. Cultures of the French-speaking world are introduced via media, songs, games, adapted readings, and class discussions. Students will demonstrate their proficiency in all four modes of communication: listening, reading, speaking, and writing. The course is taught primarily in French.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: French 1-2
This course enables students to continue developing proficiency in all four modes of communication: listening, reading, speaking, and writing. Students will continue to explore the cultures of the French-speaking world through media, songs, games, adapted readings, and class discussions. Students will demonstrate their proficiency in all four modes of communication: listening, reading, speaking, and writing. The course is taught primarily in French.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
This course is designed for students who speak Spanish at home and/or have a cultural connection to the language. This course takes into account the experiences and influences of a student's bilingual and bi-cultural upbringing. The primary purpose of the course is to develop reading and writing skills in Spanish, although all four language skills (listening, speaking, reading, and writing) are practiced via cultural and community activities. Students who successfully complete this course may choose to enroll in AP Spanish.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
This introductory course is designed for students with little or no previous study of Spanish. Some students in class might have studied Spanish in middle school but have not grasped some of the important structures of the language. This course teaches basic language patterns and vocabulary with an emphasis on developing accurate pronunciation. Repetition and comprehensible input are important components of this course. The focus is on all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will be assessed in each of these four modes of communication. Cultures of the Spanish speaking world are introduced through the use of media, songs, games, films, adapted readings and class discussions. The course is taught primarily in Spanish.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Spanish 1-2
As students continue to learn vocabulary and sentence structure, they consolidate their understanding of the first-year material. Communication takes a more realistic form as students integrate language taught in class. Students will learn about customs, history and geography of Spanish–speaking countries through the use of the textbook, videos, games, music, magazines, and other authentic materials. This course is taught primarily in Spanish.
GR: 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Parliamo Italiano!! This introductory course is designed for students with little or no previous study of Italian. This course teaches basic language patterns and conversational vocabulary with an emphasis on developing accurate pronunciation and enjoying the language and culture. The focus is on all four language skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing. Students will be assessed in each of these four modes of communication. Italian culture is introduced through the use of media, songs, games, films, adapted readings and class discussions. The course is taught primarily in Italian.
Grade: 9 Prerequisite: Approved application and interview conducted by the AVID Coordinator/Site Team. Students must be accepted into the AVID program.
Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is an academic elective course that prepares students for college readiness and success, and it is scheduled during the regular school day as a year-long course. Each week, students receive instruction utilizing a rigorous college preparatory curriculum provided by AVID Center, tutor-facilitated study groups, strengthen metacognitive development, analytical reading and writing, communication skills, and academic success skills. In AVID, students participate in activities that incorporate strategies focused on writing, inquiry, collaboration, organization and reading to support their academic growth. Students will increase awareness of their personal contributions to their learning, as well as their involvement in their school and community. Students will prepare for and participate in college entrance and placement exams, while refining study skills and test-taking, note-taking, and research techniques.
Grade: 9-12 Prerequisite: Election to Student Body or Class Office
This course is required of all students holding elective student body, class, or student senate offices, as well as students who have been appointed to office. Students will explore leadership style as well as their own potential, practice goal setting and time management, work on public relations and project planning, and acquire skills in decision–making and conflict resolution. Leadership students are responsible for planning and implementation of most of the assemblies held throughout the year and work closely with the Activities Director to plan human relations activities. All other extracurricular activities such as dances and clubs flow through the leadership class. Students are encouraged to participate actively in both school and community service projects.
GR: 9-11 Prerequisite: None
This class prepares freshmen, sophomores and juniors for the yearbook staff. Students will explore all aspects of the publication process, including the basic principles of graphic design, advertising design and sales, writing copy, layout and headline design, photography, as well as InDesign and Photoshop. Students will publish the 28–page spring yearbook supplement as their final project. They will cover such activities as the Prom and spring sports. This is a fun yet practical class with many hands on and group–oriented activities.
Grade: 9 Prerequisite: None
Students receive specially designed instruction based on their IEP’s and support for general education classes. Students receive elective credit toward a standard or modified high school diploma for successful completion of the course. Academic support activities may include:
Individualized and/or small group direct instruction in the basic skills of reading, writing, and math.
Study skills instruction is offered in the Academic Support class and can be scheduled as needed.
Consultative support services in content area classes such as math, English, health, science, and social studies.
Assistance and advocacy with program development, scheduling, and post-graduation (transition) planning.
Case management of Individualized Education Plans
GR 9-12 Prerequisite: None
Time for students to work on homework.