Courses

Concert Band (Band 1)

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: At least two years playing experience or instructor approval                                

The Concert Band continues to build and advance the fundamentals of instrument playing through the performance of various band literature. Students will perform classic, traditional, and contemporary music. Performances include school concerts, regional music festivals, and community events.  All concert band members will perform at home football games and parades.

Symphonic Band (Band 2)

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition Required                       

Symphonic band builds on the skills developed in Concert Band, advancing students’ fundamentals of instrumental performance through a wide range of band literature. Students will perform music from both traditional and contemporary genres. Performances include school concerts, regional music festivals, football games, and community events. All Symphonic Band members are required to perform at home football games and participate in parades throughout the school year.

Jazz Cadets (Jazz 1)

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 1.0  Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition required

Jazz Cadets is an entry-level jazz course. The band teaches jazz techniques in a big band and combo setting. Topics include beginning improvisation, basic jazz theory, and ensemble techniques. Jazz Cadets perform at school band concerts, various jazz festivals, around the state, and at other community events. Students must be enrolled in Concert Band, Wind Ensemble, Orchestra, or have prior instructor approval. This course is open to the following instruments: saxophone, trumpet, trombone, drums, piano, bass, and guitar.

 

Jazz Ensemble (Jazz 2)

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0  Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition required

The Jazz Ensemble teaches and refines jazz techniques in big band and combo settings. Topics include improvisation skills, jazz theory, and ensemble vs. combo playing techniques. Jazz Ensemble performs at school band concerts, various jazz festivals around the state, and other community events. Students must be additionally enrolled in concert band or wind ensemble OR have prior instructor approval. This course is open to the following instruments: saxophone, trumpet, trombone, drums, piano, bass, and guitar.

 

Wind Ensemble (Band 3)

Grades: 9-12

Level: Honors

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition required

Students learn contemporary and challenging repertoire as well as the band masterworks. In addition to school concerts, the wind ensemble performs at regional festivals, clinics, and other public events throughout the year. After school, sectionals and rehearsals are required of all members. All wind ensemble members will perform at home football games and parades.

 

Introduction to Music Technology

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None                              

Introduction to Music Technology is an entry-level course designed for students of all musical backgrounds to explore the fundamentals of digital music creation, production, and expression using cloud-based digital audio workstations. Students will learn to create, edit, and share original music through hands-on projects in beat-making, recording, layering, remixing, and sound design. This course is open to all students.

 

Beginning Guitar

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None                              

In this class, students will learn how to apply basic musical concepts such as rhythm, harmony, and melody on the guitar. We will focus on the basics of guitar techniques and chord progressions that the student will be able to apply to many styles of music. At the end of this class, students will be able to read and play basic chord symbols and melodies using tablature.

 

Concert Orchestra

Grades: 9-12

Credit: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language Repeat for

Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: At least two years playing experience or instructor approval

Concert Orchestra is offered to students with previous experience on a traditional string instrument: violin, viola, cello, or bass. Continued emphasis is given to the development of musicianship skills, aural and technical facility (with emphasis on bowing, fingering, and reading music with good intonation and rhythm) through a large repertoire of string orchestra literature and technical studies. Student involvement in concert and performance activities will be part of the grading process. Periodically, there are special events, rehearsals, or concerts during non-school hours. Participation in such activities is an essential extension of the requirements. Group lessons that focus on instrumental technique, solo literature, and/or chamber literature may be included in this course offering.

 

Chamber Orchestra

Grades: 9-12

Level: Honors

Credit: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition or instructor approval

This course is a selected ensemble offered to students with advanced string experience. Its purpose is to study and perform chamber orchestra literature of varying styles from the archives of standard repertoire. Performance activities, including special events, rehearsals, and concerts, all during non-school hours, are an essential part of the course and will be considered in the grading process. This course challenges music students interested in the finest concert performance and is strongly recommended for students who plan to major in music. Select winds, keyboard, and/or percussion will be invited to join this ensemble on occasion as instrumentation dictates. The orchestra performs several concerts a year and participates in district and regional music festivals and all-state orchestra. Ninth graders are strongly encouraged to enroll in Concert Orchestra to reinforce skills.

 

Mixed Choir

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language                     

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: None

This class will provide exposure to singing, basic vocal production techniques, and skills necessary to perform with a choir. Students will develop a general understanding of music reading, music history, artistry, and expressiveness through music. The mixed choir will perform in selected school concerts to illustrate skills learned in class.

 

Treble Choir

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition or instructor approval

Treble Choir is a select singing ensemble designed for alto and soprano voices. Students will study advanced vocal production techniques, diverse choral literature, music reading, and music history. Through participation in rigorous rehearsals, students will gain skills in music appreciation, artistry, and expressiveness, and creating a unified and blended tone. To achieve a high level of musicianship, students will participate in quarterly school concerts and a Treble Choir Festival in the spring.

 

Tenor-Bass Choir

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisites: Audition or instructor approval

This choir is a select singing ensemble designed for tenor and bass voices. Students will study advanced vocal production techniques, diverse choral literature, music reading, and music history. Through participation in rigorous rehearsals, students will gain skills in music appreciation, artistry, and expressiveness, and creating a unified and blended tone. To achieve a high level of musicianship, Tenor-Bass Choir will participate in quarterly school concerts and perform in a Chorus Festival in the spring.

 

Concert Choir

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition or instructor approval

This choir is a select singing ensemble designed for all voices. Students in Concert Choir will study advanced vocal production techniques, diverse choral literature, music reading, and music history. Through participation in rigorous rehearsals, students will gain skills in music appreciation, creating a unified and blended tone, artistry, and expressiveness in performance. To demonstrate a high level of competency, Concert Choir will perform in quarterly school concerts and the League Choir Festival.

 

Chamber Choir

Grades: 10-12

Level: Honors

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition or instructor approval (concurrent enrollment in Concert Choir preferred for 10th graders)

This choir is a highly select 30-40 voice singing group that performs college-level repertoire with increasing difficulty and diversity. Students are expected to achieve a highly advanced level of musicianship, music reading, and an understanding of music history. Students will perform in the community and represent the school on many occasions, including quarterly school concerts and the League Choir Festival. Outfit rental or purchase required.

 

Theatre 1

Grades: 9-12                                         

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisites: None                            

Theatre 1 provides opportunities for students to explore the concepts and ideologies that go into creating a production. This is an introductory theatre course that will focus on theatre appreciation, creative expression, and what it means to create art. Students will analyze theatre shows, notice and employ acting techniques, develop characters, study historical and cultural influences on theatre, and practice theatre design.

 

Theatre 2

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisites: Theatre Arts 1 or instructor approval

Theatre 2 provides opportunities for students to explore the active side of theatre with projects in acting and design. This course will focus on creative expression through theatrical performance and design. Students will become skilled at employing acting techniques, movement & body control, proper vocalization methods, the development of characters, historical and cultural studies in theatre, and theatre tech. Students will learn the fundamentals of acting primarily through projects. Students will create projects during the semester in groups and will present them to their class, similarly to how they would in a theatre environment.

 

Advanced Theatre

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition or instructor approval

This is a production theatre class, in which students put on full productions. This class gives opportunities to learn and apply skills in directing a show, choreography, stage management, set design, costuming, stage lighting, sound, and theatrical make-up. We rehearse and perform three plays each school year, ultimately putting on productions for an audience. Students also explore careers in theatre, movement in theatre, and various other production styles.

 

Student News

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Open enrollment with instructor approval

This course works specifically on scripting, announcing, broadcasting, filming, and editing daily student news. Students are needed as broadcasters, camera operators, editors, script writers, set-up and take-down configuration, interviewers, and editors. Positions will shift, so everyone will know how to work in each area. Students will work with the following software on desktop computers: Adobe Premiere Pro and iMovie.

Art 1

Grades: 9-12                                                                                             

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None                                 

Art 1 introduces students to art and drawing. The class provides students with an opportunity to explore a variety of two-dimensional art media such as graphite, colored pencil and pen, oil pastel, and chalk pastel. They learn the basics of drawing: shading, design, and creatively applying their own ideas and skills to their work. Students will strengthen their drawing abilities and creatively express their ideas.

 

Art 2

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Art 1

Art 2 allows students to develop and strengthen their drawing skills, explore a variety of art media, such as acrylic paint, pastel, charcoal, block printing, mixed media collage, watercolor, and colored pencil. Students will learn to strengthen their artwork through the use of more advanced composition and design concepts while being mindful of the elements of art and principles of design. We will explore various artists and art styles as well as historic and cultural influences. Students will have the freedom to explore their own ideas and intentions related to the subject matter.

 

Studio Art

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Art 1 and Art 2

Studio Art is a course that allows students the opportunity to experiment with different materials and processes that were not introduced in Art 1 and Art 2. The materials include, but are not limited to: charcoal, printmaking, chalk/oil pastel, pen and ink, acrylic paint, collage, and mixed media, which will encourage students to step out of their comfort zone and broaden their artistic abilities. With each project, students will learn about famous artists through the eras who invented specific art techniques that are introduced throughout this course. This is a rigorous course, and students will be required to work an additional 8 hours outside of class every week.

 

AP Studio Art

Grades: 10-12

Level: AP

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Art 1 and 2

AP Studio Art is an advanced placement class that allows the opportunity to receive college credit. Students submit their portfolio to the College Board in April. Students will primarily focus on creating a body of artwork that consists of 15 art pieces. The art medium and subject matter are chosen by the student. The body of work must demonstrate a cohesive conceptual framework throughout the series. Consistency in their student voice and style should be visually recognizable through medium application and content. This is a rigorous course that prepares students for college-level work and gives them the opportunity to build a very strong portfolio in art. Students will be required to work outside of class on their artwork. Students will not only make art, but they must also document and reflect on the process of their art making orally and in writing. Students who are not ready for the rigor of the AP course may be enrolled in Studio Art with instructor approval.

 

Ceramics 1

Grades: 9-12                                                                                

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language                     

Repeat for Credit: No    

Prerequisite: None                              

In this class, you’ll dive into the fundamentals of art by working hands-on with clay! You’ll get to explore different ceramic techniques, from pottery to hand-building, and discover new ways to create. Along the way, you’ll be encouraged to stretch your creativity and problem-solving skills as you express yourself through your artwork.

 

Ceramics 2

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Ceramics 1

In Ceramics 2, you’ll take your skills from Ceramics 1 to the next level by creating exciting and unique artwork. This is where you’ll get the chance to learn how to use the potter’s wheel and explore new ways to express yourself through the clay. You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to challenge yourself and develop your problem-solving abilities as you create amazing pieces!

Automotive Service 1

Grades: 9-10                            

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

This introductory course will allow students to become familiar with the automotive and light truck industry. Topics will include safety, preventive maintenance, tool identification, basic electrical circuits, and theory of automotive subsystems.

 

Automotive Service 2

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Automotive Service 1 

This course emphasizes specific topics in brake and steering, powertrain, suspension repair, and tire replacement and balancing. Auto 2 includes fuel systems, automotive engine diagnosis (OBD II), and repair, as well as other automotive systems such as emission systems, computer control systems, and electrical systems.

 

Automotive Service 3

Grades: 11-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Automotive Service 2 

This vocational-preparatory lab is for the advanced student who has demonstrated an ability and desire to learn and do more extensive work in the transportation tech automotive area. The student will learn troubleshooting and diagnostics techniques for electronics, computer controls, and an introduction to drivetrain and brake system overhaul.

 

Automotive Service 4

Grades: 11-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Automotive Service 3

This advanced class will allow students to hone their automotive skills while allowing opportunities to explore new topics and skills. Course content will include Electric and Hybrid vehicles, problem solving, hydraulic and pneumatic systems, job and interview skills, and career exploration in the automotive/truck industry.

 

CTE Tutor—Auto

Grades: 11-12                                               

Credits: 0.5 Elective                                     

Repeat for Credit: Yes                    

Prerequisite: 3 credits in construction with a ‘C’ or higher              

This course allows students to assist other students in a CTE class to improve their skills. It will also provide an opportunity for further exploration of course content. This course is academic and different from an instructor’s aide.

 

Business & Marketing 1: Introduction To Business

Grades: 9-12                                                                                             

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None                                           

Other: RCC/OIT credits may be available.

Introductory Business courses survey an array of topics and concepts related to the field of business. These courses introduce business concepts such as banking and finance, the role of government in business, consumerism, credit, investment, and management. They usually provide a brief overview of the American economic system and corporate organization. Introductory Business courses may also expose students to the varied opportunities in secretarial, accounting, management, and related fields.

 

Business & Marketing 2: Principles of Marketing

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Business & Marketing 1

Other: RCC/OIT credits may be available

Principles of Marketing courses offer students insight into the processes affecting the flow of goods and services from the producer to the consumer. Course content ranges considerably as general marketing principles such as purchasing, distribution, and sales are covered; however, a major emphasis is often placed on kinds of markets, market identification, product planning, packaging, pricing, and business management.

 

Business & Marketing 3/4: Entrepreneurship (alternates each year—on year)

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Business 1 & 2 

Entrepreneurship courses acquaint students with the knowledge and skills necessary to own and operate their own businesses. Topics from several fields typically form the course content, such as economics, marketing principles, human relations and psychology, business and labor laws, legal rights and responsibilities of ownership, business and financial planning, finance and accounting, and communication. Several topics surveyed in Business Management courses may also be included.

 

Business & Marketing 3/4: Digital Marketing (alternates each year—off year)

Grades: 10-12                                                                             

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Business 1 & 2                        

This course teaches how to utilize the Internet and social media for marketing products and services. Students learn how to plan, create, and evaluate digital content. Topics may include, but are not limited to, marketing information management (including marketing research), market planning, channel management, sales, promotion, product/service management, and pricing.

 

CTE Tutor —Business

Grades: 11-12                                                                             

Credits: 0.5 Elective                                        

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: 3 credits in business with a ‘C’ or higher                                      

This course allows students to assist other students in a CTE class to improve their skills. It will also provide an opportunity for further exploration of the course content. This course is academic and different from an instructor’s aide.

 

Construction Technology 1

Grades: 9-12                                                                   

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No                                 

Prerequisite: None                                           

Other: None          

Students will develop hand and power tool skills and an understanding of safety in relation to the construction trades. Students will receive an introduction to construction trades with an emphasis on framing. This is a creative, hands-on class that involves building projects.

 

Construction Technology 2

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Construction Tech 1

Other: None

Students will use tool knowledge to design and build advanced projects in the construction trades. There will be a focus on trades (plumbing, electrical, framing, roofing). There will be an opportunity for students to design, plan, and construct projects. This is a creative, hands-on class that involves building projects.

 

Construction Technology 3

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Construction Tech 1 & 2

Construction Technology 3 is the first half of a full-year advanced Con Tech series. Con Tech students will:

• Become a member of the elite SMHS Con Tech Crew, learn job site roles, and collaborate to build a variety of projects, such as Tiny House construction
• Develop on-the-job skills needed for employment in the Construction field
• Have the opportunity to learn computer-aided drafting (CAD) and 3D modeling for the production of small and large-scale building projects

 

Construction Technology 4/5/6

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language (each level)

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Construction Technology 3

Other: College credit pending

Construction Technology 4/5/6 students will work with their crew to complete construction projects begun in Const. Tech 3, which includes carpentry, concrete work, framing, electrical, plumbing, siding, and finishing. With instructor approval, students may also:

• Participate in internships with local building companies or trades
• Interview for employment in the Rogue Valley Construction industry

 

CTE Tutor—Con Tech

Grades: 11-12                                                          

Credits: 0.5 Elective                                                                

Repeat for Credit: Yes                               

Prerequisite: 3 credits in construction with a ‘C’ or higher                                 

This course allows students to assist other students in a CTE class to improve their skills. It will also provide an opportunity for further exploration of the course content. This course is academic and different from an instructor’s aide.

 

Culinary Arts 1

Grades: 9-12                                         

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No                                              

Prerequisite: None                                                            

In a lab setting, students are given the opportunity to learn basic food preparation skills. This class teaches basic knowledge of kitchen safety, sanitation, measuring equivalents, cooking terms, and proper use of equipment. Students will study and prepare quick breads, grains, breakfast foods, cookies, vegetables, fruit, and nutrition. This class is vocationally approved.

 

Culinary Arts 2

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Culinary Arts 1

In a lab setting, students are given the opportunity to practice food preparation skills as they study meat, poultry, pastries, yeast breads, pasta, and sauces. Students will also explore the hospitality industry and learn the basic skills needed to be successful in this field.

 

Culinary Arts 3

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Culinary Arts 1 & 2

Other: OCCI credit may be available

The focus of this course is American regional and international cooking. In this class, students will enhance their food preparation skills by preparing a wide variety of unique recipes. Students will continue to explore the hospitality industry and prepare for post-secondary education in culinary and hospitality. Students who complete Culinary 2 & 3 with a grade of “B”  or better will qualify for credit through OCCI.

 

Culinary Arts 4

Grades: 11-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Culinary Arts 3

Other: OCCI credit may be available

In this class, students will enhance their food preparation skills by preparing a wide variety of unique recipes. Students will continue to explore the hospitality industry and prepare for post-secondary education in culinary and hospitality. Students who complete Culinary 4 with a grade of “B” or better will qualify for College Now credit through OCCI.

 

Sous Chef

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Culinary 1 & 2 and instructor approval

Students work as a “Sous Chef” to the instructor, helping set up and clean up demonstrations, assisting students in lab activities, preparing ingredients for labs, and performing other tasks that are necessary to maintain the lab environment. This class builds students’ leadership and employability skills that will prepare them for post-secondary education and the workplace.

 

Fabrication Lab 1

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No       

Prerequisite: None                                           

This manufacturing course introduces students to the various methods used to design, build, and repair parts and equipment. Students will have an opportunity to learn basic drafting, CAD, layout, thread cutting, and the use of a manual mill and lathe, in addition to other equipment found in any machine shop.

 

Fabrication Lab 2

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Fabrication 1

Students will continue to build on the skills they developed in Fabrication 1. More complex projects and skills that include threading (internal and external), knurling, tool grinding, advanced blueprint reading, as well as further progression through CAD software using Fusion 360.

 

Fabrication Lab 3

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd

Language Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite:  Fabrication 2

Students will continue to develop skills from Fabrication 2 with more challenging projects and tools. Students will also learn how to set up and maintain common tools found in any machine shop. In addition, students will get an opportunity to work with Fusion 360 software to develop their skills in CNC programming.

 

Fabrication Lab 4

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite:  Fabrication 3 Other: College credit may be available

Students will be developing their skills learned from the previous levels and developing to industry quality. Students will plan, design using CAD software, and build various projects that meet industry quality. Students will have an opportunity to set up and operate a Haas VF1 CNC mill.

 

Academic Tutor—Manufacturing

Grades: 11-12                                                                             

Credits: 0.5 Elective                                        

Repeat for Credit: Yes  

Prerequisite:  3 credits in welding and/or fabrication with a ‘C’ or higher                                                                                  

This course allows students to assist other students in a CTE class to improve their skills. It will also provide an opportunity for further exploration of course content. This course is academic and different from an instructor’s aide.

 

Welding 1

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language        

Repeat for Credit: No                                              

Prerequisite: None                                           

This course emphasizes shop and personal safety around welding equipment. It includes instruction in MIG, Stick, and Oxy-Acetylene cutting processes, Plasma cutting, as well as an introduction to blueprint reading and welding-related math skills.

 

Welding 2

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Welding 1 

This course builds on the coursework covered in Introduction to Welding, as well as introducing some out-of-position welding, aluminum MIG, and TIG welding.  

 

Welding 3

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Welding 2

Metalworking courses introduce students to the qualities and applications of various metals and the tools used to manipulate and form metal into products. Through one or more projects involving metals, students develop planning, layout and measurement skills; gain experience in cutting, bending, and/or welding metal; complete projects according to blueprints or other specifications; and may also learn to polish and finish metals. Correct use of metalworking tools and equipment is stressed.

 

Welding 4

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Welding 3

Students continue to develop their skills to industry-level quality. The primary focus of this class is pipe welding, structural steel welding procedures, and practice certification tests for the American Welding Society D1.1 structural steel.

 

Introduction To Engineering - Project Lead the Way (PLTW) 3D Printing and Design

Grades: 10-12                                                                

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language/Science Elective                        

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Computer Skills                                                                                               

Students dig deep into the engineering design process, applying math, science, and engineering standards to hands-on projects. They work both individually and in teams to design solutions to a variety of problems using 3D modeling software, 3D printers, CNC and laser cutters, while using an engineering notebook to document their work.

 

Principles of Engineering - Project Lead The Way (PLTW)

Grades: 11-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

Other: RCC credits may be available.

Students explore a broad range of engineering topics, including simple machines, statics, mechanisms, strength of structure and materials, and automation, and then they apply what they know to take on challenges like designing a self-powered car.

 

Robotics 1

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 0.5 Fine Arts/CTE/World Language                           

Repeat for Credit: No       

Prerequisite: None                                                                     

This course introduces students to robotics engineering through a project-based learning environment with VEX robotics.

 

Robotics 2

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Fine Arts/CTE/World Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Robotics 1

This course builds on students' knowledge of robotics engineering through a project-based learning environment with VEX robotics.

 

Robotics 3

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Fine Arts/CTE/World Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Robotics 1 & 2 or Intro to Engineering

In this course, students begin to learn advanced robotics engineering concepts through a project-based learning environment with VEX robotics.

 

Robotics 4

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Fine Arts/CTE/World Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Robotics 3

This course builds on students' knowledge of advanced robotics engineering concepts through a project-based learning environment with VEX robotics.

 

Pre-Education: Year 1 - Learners & Learning / Human Development

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language                                               

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None                                                                                  

Other: RCC credit is available

Learners and Learning: This course reviews current national trends and issues impacting educators and provides an overview of the teaching profession. It also investigates the instructor’s role in building relationships and creating classroom culture, and will reflect on their individual role in developing that learning environment. Pre-education students will review current trends and examine how they align with their emerging educational beliefs, as well as develop their own lesson plans and deliver them to elementary students. This course must be completed prior to any other course in this Pathway.

Human Development is the study of continuity and change. This course is designed to provide an overview of the major theories and topics in human development with a focus on childhood through adolescent development. The course is designed to teach you ways of thinking about development, and how various ways of thinking both complement and contradict one another. Students should leave this course understanding how humans’ thinking, learning, and physical abilities vary at different ages and stages, and how these various “lines” of development influence one another.

 

Pre-Education: Year 2/3 - Introduction to Teaching / Culture in the Classroom (alternating every other year)

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Learners & Learning Year 1

Other:  RCC credit is available

Introduction to Teaching is designed to equip pre-education candidates with a repertoire of the analytical, practical, and creative qualities at the core of authentic classroom instruction and learning. Specifically, this course will prepare each candidate with more in-depth keys to effective instructional strategies, the construction of lesson plans, lesson presentation skills, and curriculum integration. It will include practicum-related field experiences with children.

Culture in the Classroom helps pre-education candidates consider the variety of learning styles and cultural backgrounds present in their future students. Theories and strategies that promote differentiated instruction, cultural competence, and building community within their classrooms, including special education, poverty, and ELL.

*Offered every other year.

 

 

Pre-Education: Year 2/3 - Intro to Classroom Management/Global Perspectives in Children's Literature (alternating every other year)

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite:  Learners & Learning-Year 1

Other: RCC credit available

Intro to Classroom Management prepares students to organize and manage all aspects of a classroom, including discipline, scheduling, student assessment, record keeping, grouping, classroom environment, and curriculum. Students will also develop skills in how to encourage students who struggle with at-risk behaviors to overcome and thrive in a school setting.

Global Perspectives in Children’s Literature is an introduction to all genres of literature for children in grades K-12. The course emphasizes authors and illustrators, award-winning book titles, educational uses of literature, and the writing process behind those books. Students will learn which books are best for a particular developmental level, how to match motivational books to students, and what are the characteristics of the genre being are read. Basic Reading strategies, including a focus on “The Big Five+Writing,” will also be addressed.

 

Educators Rising - Introductory Practicum

Grades: 11-12                                                   

Credits: 0.5 Elective                                                     

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Instructor approval                                    

Other: RCC credit available

Educators Rising Introductory Practicum provides students with the opportunity to experience and explore their developing skills and knowledge related to children from preschool, elementary, middle, and high school ages. Students will spend time in assigned settings where they can observe and interact with them in a continual fashion throughout a semester. Class meetings will be during 4th period periodically throughout the semester. 

Intro to Emergency Services

Grades: 9-12

Credits: .5 Fine Arts                                                                 

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: No                                                                                      

Other:  RCC Credits may be available

Intro to Emergency Services explores the organization, funding, and role of emergency services within the community and government.  The course covers an overview of emergency medical services and fire protection services, legal and professional considerations regarding emergency response, emergency services personnel, history and trends of emergency services,  evaluation and planning, disaster response, and training, leadership, and career development within emergency services.

Students will also participate in team building evolutions, creation of resumes and cover letters, and conduct research on careers in the emergency services arena and make presentations on their findings.

Students will participate in hands-on training on the use of ground ladders, fire hose deployment, basic low-angle rope rescue knots and techniques, and patient packaging.

 

Fundamentals of Fire Behavior

Grades: 9-12

Credits: .5 Fine Arts/CTE/World Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: No

Other:  RCC Credits may be available

For students interested in becoming firefighters, this course teaches how and why fires start and spread, as well as how they are controlled. Students will learn about combustion reactions in solids, liquids, and gases. They will demonstrate knowledge of fire suppression and fire dynamics. 

 

Teen CERT (Community Emergency Response Team)

Grades: 10-12

Credits: .5 Fine Arts/CTE/World Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Intro to EMS & Fundamentals of Fire Behavior

Students will learn to put out small fires, conduct light search and rescue, assist those who are injured, set up medical treatment areas, assist emergency responders, identify and anticipate hazards, reduce fire hazards in the home and workplace, and help reduce survivor stress. This course leads to Teen CERT certification.

 

Emergency Services Wellness

Grades: 10-12

Credits: .5 Fine Arts/CTE/World Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Intro to EMS Other: RCC Credits may be available

This course provides students with the necessary health and wellness foundation needed prior to entering the emergency services fields of firefighting, paramedicine, or law enforcement. Students assess their current lifestyle, physical fitness, nutrition, and risk for illness/disease. 

Personal Health

Grades: 10                                                                      

Credits: 0.5 Health Ed                                      

Repeat for Credit: No    

Prerequisite: None                 

.5 credits of Personal Health are required for graduation. This course places emphasis on the wellness lifestyle concept. Areas of study include self-responsibility, nutrition, stress management, physical fitness, drug education, and human sexuality.

 

Family Health

Grades: 12

Credits: 0.5 Health Ed

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

.5 credits of Family Health are required for graduation.  Family Health students study interpersonal relationships and other dynamics that impact family structure. Students explore information and attitudes regarding healthy relationships, families, love, marriage, prenatal development and childbirth, environmental and safety issues that impact family structure, and diversity among various cultures. Incorporated within the semester is an exploration of many critical issues facing the modern American family and family structure worldwide.

 

Sports Medicine and First Aid/CPR

Grades: 10-12

Pathway: Health Careers

Credits: 0.5 Elective

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

Other: RCC credit may be available.

This class is broken into two sections: Sports Medicine and First Aid/CPR. Sports Medicine introduces students to the prevention, treatment, and management of athletic injuries. Students will learn to assess, treat, and rehabilitate various athletic injuries. Students will research careers in the field of sports medicine. Basic musculoskeletal anatomy will be reviewed. The First Aid, CPR, and AED section covers the critical skills needed to respond to and manage first aid situations, as well as sudden cardiac arrest. Students learn how to treat bleeding, sprains, broken bones, shock, and other first aid emergencies. A different instructor may teach each 9-week segment.

 

Health Careers I (*Health Pathways Course*)

Grades: 11-12

Pathway: Health Careers

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

Other: RCC credit may be available

This course focuses on exploring Healthcare Careers. Students are introduced to a comprehensive range of professions in healthcare. Students will explore career choices, including educational requirements, job outlooks, requirements, wages, employer expectations, and professional responsibilities. Students will also study medical terminology in preparation for Health Careers II. An emphasis is placed on the spelling and definition of prefixes, suffixes, word roots, and abbreviations related to the functions and structures of the body systems.

 

Health Careers II (*Health Pathways Course*)

Grades: 12                                                         

Pathway: Health Careers

Credits: 0.5 Elective                                           

Repeat for Credit: No                              

Prerequisite: Health Careers I                            

Recommended: Anatomy & Physiology

This class will focus on building skills for those wanting to work in the healthcare field. Students will build on the information learned in Health Careers I. This course will include hands-on skills, performing patient care, participating in simulation, and real clinical experience in the community.

 

Health Careers II Practicum (*Health Pathways Course*)

Grades: 12

Pathway: Health Careers

Credits: 0.5  Elective

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Health Careers I and Health Careers II

The Health Careers II Practicum focuses on working toward the CNA 1 or Phlebotomy certification: 

1. CNA 1 - Certified Nursing Assistant 1

Students will study patient care in our SMHS Health Careers Lab. Students will be given the opportunity to apply to the CNA program through RCC. This includes a 27-hour lab at SMHS after school and a 53-hour online course.  Upon the completion of this course and a 40 hr. internship in a long-term care facility and a hospital following graduation, students will be eligible to take the certification examination through the Oregon State Board of Nursing. A CNA 1 certificate allows students to pursue an entry-level position in the medical field.

2. Phlebotomy

Students will study phlebotomy in our SMHS Health Careers lab. Students will be given the opportunity to apply to the phlebotomy program through Rogue School of Phlebotomy. This includes a two-part program: didactic plus a practical internship. Upon completion, students will be prepared to take the optional national exam and qualify for employment as a phlebotomist.

English 1

Grades: 9                                                                                                               

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Language Arts                   

Repeat for Credit: No       

Prerequisite: None                              

English/Language Arts I (9th grade) courses build upon students’ prior knowledge of grammar, vocabulary, word usage, and the mechanics of writing and usually include the four aspects of language use: reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Typically, these courses introduce and define various genres of literature, with writing exercises often linked to reading selections.

 

Pre-AP English 1

Grades: 9

Level: Honors

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No 

Prerequisite: Open enrollment with instructor Approval

Pre-AP English/Language Arts I (9th grade) courses will cover all aspects of English 1, while also including an emphasis on critical thinking, higher-level discussions, and advanced writing techniques. Students will be guided through an analysis of both fiction and nonfiction, including important historical and philosophical backgrounds of the texts. Skills in public presentation and speaking will be emphasized, preparing students for success in Honors and AP-level English courses.

 

English 2

Grades: 10

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

This course offers a focus on composition and literature. Students learn about the alternate aims and audiences of written compositions by writing persuasive, critical, multi-paragraph thematic compositions. The study of literature encompasses various genres as students improve their close reading skills and vocabulary acquisition. Students develop the ability to determine an author’s intent and theme and to recognize the writing techniques employed to achieve the author’s purpose. 

 

Pre-AP English 2

Grades: 10

Level: Honors

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Open enrollment with instructor approval

Designed to prepare students for the scope and rigor of college-level AP courses, Pre-AP English 2 will enable students to critically read, analyze, and respond to works of literary merit. Students will study authorial intent, theme, figurative language, rhetoric, argument, and more to build the necessary foundation for success in future AP English classes. Students learn to use syntax correctly and stylistically, to write with precision and clarity for a variety of purposes and audiences. Students completing this course fulfill the district and state requirements for English 2 Honors.

 

English 3

Grades: 11                                                                                                             

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Language Arts                                

Repeat for Credit: No                 

Prerequisite: None                                                                                    

This course continues to develop students’ writing skills, emphasizing logical writing patterns, word choice, and usage. Students continue to read works of literature that emphasize exploration of literary elements and stylistic devices, with an emphasis on significant texts from American history. Students will write narrative, literary analysis, and researched argument essays. Writing requirements include the junior argumentative research paper.

 

AP English Language & Composition

Grades: 11

Level: AP

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Open enrollment with instructor approval

Other: SOU credits may be available.

Designed to parallel college-level English courses, AP Language and Composition exposes students to prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts. Emphasis is placed on the interaction of authorial purpose, intended audience, and the subject at hand; students learn to develop stylistic flexibility as they write compositions covering a variety of subjects and intended for various purposes. Students may earn advanced credits through Southern Oregon University, or may elect to take the AP Language & Composition exam. Students completing this course fulfill the district & state requirements for English 3 Honors.

 

English 4

Grades: 12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

English/Language Arts courses blend composition and literature into a cohesive whole as students write critical and comparative analyses of selected literature, continuing to develop their language arts skills. Students will learn to critically read relevant texts, participate in class discussions, and write multi-paragraph essays, along with one major research essay on a topic of their choosing. The outcome of this final year of English is designed to help students polish the skills they already possess and prepare them with the critical reading, writing, and speaking skills necessary for any post-secondary option they may choose, including the workforce, the military, trade school, or college.

 

AP English Literature & Composition

Grades: 12

Level: AP

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No  

Prerequisite: Open enrollment with instructor approval

Other: SOU credits may be available.

Designed to parallel college-level English courses, AP Literature and Composition introduces students to a variety of literature in order to enrich their understanding of the great works and also to explore the deep and profound questions about life and meaning that authors, playwrights, and poets have been addressing for centuries. This course builds students’ skills, allowing them to:

· read, comprehend, and analyze a broad section of literature from a variety of historical periods, cultures, literary perspectives, and genres;

· write valid interpretations of literary content and analysis, expressing ideas clearly and skillfully with stylistic maturity, and

· discuss literary themes with empathy and insight.

For those interested, students may elect to take the AP Literature and Composition exam for credit with a passing score. In addition, this course qualifies for English 104z & 105z through Advanced Southern Credits.

 

Philosophy: The Meaning of Life

Grades: 12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 0.5 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No  

Prerequisite: Must be proficient in the ELA OSAS

How do you know if something is true? What's the right thing to do? What makes a person wise? These questions will be examined by considering ancient wisdom and applying it to modern problems. Students in this class will ponder big ideas alongside a variety of books, short stories, and films. This will all culminate in a final question: what makes a life worth living?

 

Violence in Fairy Tales: The Psychology of Fear and Moral Imagination

Grades: 12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 0.5 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No  

Prerequisite: Must be proficient in the ELA OSAS

Did you know that in the original Snow White fairy tale, the queen who tries to kill Snow White is not her stepmother but her biological mother? Or that The Little Mermaid ends tragically? Or that Little Red Riding Hood does not survive the story? Or that Cinderella’s stepsisters...the list goes on. Far from the sanitized versions popularized by Disney, original fairy tales often include abandonment, punishment, cruelty, and death. In this course, students analyze the psychological dimensions of both famous and lesser-known fairy tales and examine how violence functions as moral instruction, emotional preparation, social control, and symbolic meaning. We will also explore why modern authors and cultures have altered these stories—and what may be lost or gained when their violence is removed or downplayed.

 

The Hero's Journey: An Exploration of Myths and Meaning

Grades: 12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 0.5 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No  

Prerequisite: Must be proficient in the ELA OSAS

A senior English course that explores why similar story patterns appear across cultures and time. Using Joseph Campbell’s Hero’s Journey as a central framework, students analyze ancient myths, literature, and modern films to understand archetypes, identity, and transformation. Through discussion, analysis, and creative projects, students examine how stories function as modern myths that help people make meaning of the world.

 

Senior Writing Study

Grades: 12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 0.5 Language Arts

Repeat for Credit: No  

Prerequisite: Must be proficient in the ELA OSAS

This course is designed for students who are ready to further develop their advanced writing skills. Emphasizing higher-level composition, students will engage in a variety of writing tasks, including argumentative, analytical, narrative, and research-based essays. The course will challenge students to refine their ability to organize complex ideas, construct persuasive arguments, and synthesize information from multiple sources. In addition to writing, students will focus on the revision process, critical reading, and editing skills, with an emphasis on audience awareness and rhetorical strategies. By the end of the course, students will be prepared to produce polished, sophisticated written work suitable for college-level expectations. 

Integrated Math 1 (IM1)

Grades: 9-12                                                                                                                       

NCAA Approved: Yes    

Credits: 1.0 Mathematics                                      

Repeat for Credit: No                              

Prerequisite: None  

Students build a foundation of skills and reasoning involving numbers and operations, algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability. Skills and understanding include but are not limited to identifying and analyzing patterns for two main functions—linear and exponential—applying linear regression, modeling exponential growth and decay, constructing and transforming triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles, non-linear patterns, and linear regressions.

 

Integrated Math 1 (IM2)

Grades: 9-12                                                                                                                       

NCAA Approved: Yes    

Credits: 1.0 Mathematics                                      

Repeat for Credit: No                              

Prerequisite: Integrated Math 1 (IM1)

Students build upon skills and reasoning from Integrated Mathematics 1 involving numbers and operations, algebra, geometry, statistics, and probability. Skills and understanding include but are not limited to mathematical regression models, shape of data distribution, center and spread, construction and transformations of triangles, quadrilaterals, and circles.

 

Algebra 2

Grades: 9-12                                                                                                                       

NCAA Approved: Yes    

Credits: 1.0 Mathematics                                      

Repeat for Credit: No                              

Prerequisite: Integrated Math 1, Geometry, Probability & Statistics

Algebra 2 continues the study of Algebra and is a college-prep course. This course provides an in-depth study of linear functions, systems of equations, inequalities, and linear programming, polynomial operations, rational exponents, radical functions, quadratic functions, quadratic equations, and complex numbers, exponential and logarithmic functions, and an intro to trigonometric ratios and functions.

 

Geometry

Grades: 9-12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 0.5 Mathematics

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Integrated Math 1

This course will focus on the use of modeling and problem-solving through the study of shapes and spatial relationships. The essential learnings include: transformations, line angle relationships, triangle congruency, similarity, right triangle trigonometry, and volume.

 

Geometry Honors

Grades: 9-12

Level: Honors

NCAA Approved:  Yes

Credits: 0.5  Mathematics

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Integrated Math 1 and teacher recommendation

Geometry Honors will focus on the use of modeling and problem-solving through the study of shapes and spatial relationships. The essential learnings include: transformations, line angle relationships, triangle congruency, similarity, right triangle trigonometry, and volume. Geometry Honors is taught in such a way as to allow for greater depth, faster pace, greater conceptual understanding, and higher-level thinking skills.  More emphasis is placed on proof, logical thinking, and synthesis of concepts.

 

Algebra 2

Grades: 9-12

NCAA Approved:  Yes

Credits: 1.0 Mathematics

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Integrated Math 1, Geometry, Probability & Statistics

Algebra 2 continues the study of Algebra and is a college-prep course. This course provides an in-depth study of linear functions, systems of equations, inequalities, and linear programming, polynomial operations, rational exponents, radical functions, quadratic functions, quadratic equations, and complex numbers, exponential and logarithmic functions, and an intro to trigonometric ratios and functions.

 

Pre-Calculus

Grades: 10-12

NCAA Approved:  Yes

Credits: 1.0 Mathematics

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 and teacher recommendation

Other: SOU/RCC credits may be available

Pre-Calculus courses combine the study of Elementary Functions, Analytic Geometry, and Mathematical Analysis topics as preparation for calculus. Topics typically include the study of complex numbers; polynomial, logarithmic, exponential, rational, and conic sections.

 

Pre-Calculus Honors

Grades: 10-12

Level: Honors

NCAA Approved:  Yes

Credits: 1.0 Mathematics

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Algebra 2 and teacher recommendation

Other: SOU/RCC credit may be available

Pre-Calculus courses combine the study of Trigonometry, Elementary Functions, Analytic Geometry, and Mathematical Analysis topics as preparation for calculus. Topics typically include the study of complex numbers; polynomial, logarithmic, exponential, rational, right trigonometric, and circular functions, and their relations, inverses, and graphs: trigonometric identities and equations, solutions of right and oblique triangles, vectors, the polar coordinate system, and conic sections.

 

AP Statistics

Grades:  10-12                                                  

Level: AP                            

NCAA Approved:  Yes

Credits: 1.0 Mathematics                              

Repeat for Credit: No                     

Prerequisite:  Algebra 1, a sequential algebra course, and teacher recommendation

Other: SOU credit may be available          

AP Statistics closely parallels a college-level statistics course, emphasizing reading and problem solving. The learning strategies, activities, and labs emphasize real-life applications using real data. Calculators and computers will be used. Students will have the opportunity to take the AP Statistics exam. Topics include event probability, probability distributions including binomial and normal distributions, analysis of data, measures of central tendency and variability, random variables, random sampling, central limit theorem, confidence intervals, and hypothesis testing. College credit may be available through SOU.

 

AP Calculus AB

Grades: 11-12

Level: AP

NCAA Approved:  Yes

Credits: 1.0 Mathematics

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus and teacher recommendation

Other: SOU credit may be available

Following the College Board’s suggested curriculum designed to parallel college-level calculus courses, AP Calculus AB provides students with an understanding of the concepts of calculus and experience with its methods and applications. This course introduces calculus and includes the following topics: functions, graphs, limits, and continuity, differential calculus (including definition, application, and computation of the derivative: derivative at a point, derivative as a function, and second derivatives), and integral calculus (including definite integrals and antidifferentiation).

 

AP Calculus BC

Grades: 12

Level: AP

NCAA Approved:  Yes

Credits: 1.0 Mathematics

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: AP Calculus and teacher recommendation

Other: SOU credit may be available

AP Calculus BC is a year of Calculus for those students who have already successfully completed first-year Calculus.  It is designed to have students deepen their understanding of year one topics in differentiation and integration through additional applications and projects, and learn a variety of new topics, including sequences and series, Taylor and McClaurin series, and parametric,  polar, and vector functions and applications.  Upon completion of the course, students will be prepared to take the AP Calculus BC exam and/or earn Calculus 3 college credit through SOU. 

Secondary Math Course Pathways

	Grade
	7th	8th	9th	10th	11th	12th
Sample of Steps to Meet Graduation Requirements for Math	Math 7	Math 8	Expanded Algebra A/B	Expanded Algebra C	Transitional Algebra with Geometry	Algebra 2, Pathway Math Options (TBD)
				Probability & Statistics
	Math 7	Math 8	Algebra 1	Geometry	Algebra 2 or Pathway Math Options (TBD)	AP Stats, Pre-Calculus, Pathway Math Options (TBD)
				Probability & Statistics
	Pre-Algebra	Algebra 1	Geometry Honors	Algebra 2 Honors	Pre-Calculus Honors*, Pathway Math Options (TBD)	AP Calculus or AP Stats*, Pathway Math Options (TBD)
			Probability & Statistics Honors
	Algebra 1	Geometry Honors	Algebra 2 Honors	Pre-Calculus Honors*	AP Calculus or AP Stats*, Pathway Math Options (TBD)	AP Calculus 2 or AP Stats*, Pathway Math Options (TBD)
		Probability & Statistics Honors

 

	End of steps to meet graduation requirements		Meets entry requirements for Oregon Public Universities

 

* means the course may be offered for Dual Credit/College Credit

 

 

Fitness For Life

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 0.5 Physical Education                             

Repeat for Credit: Yes   

Prerequisite: None                                           

This is an introductory class to promote lifelong fitness through cardio-respiratory conditioning, muscular strength, endurance, and flexibility training. The class will also help with skill development through team and/or individual sports. This course will be activity-based, focusing on lifelong sports and activities (such as badminton and pickleball), individual skill development, and sportsmanship. Along with these areas, mental health and wellness activities are practices incorporated to help promote a lifetime appreciation and recognition of the importance of physical fitness. Students will participate in cardiovascular assessments throughout each quarter.

 

Aerobic Walking/Conditioning

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Physical Education

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: None

This activity-based course focuses on personal fitness as a lifelong activity. This course will provide an opportunity for students to improve their personal fitness level through power walking and a variety of other cardiovascular fitness activities. Students will participate in cardiovascular assessments throughout the semester. Along with these areas, individual skill development, sportsmanship, and mental health and wellness activities are practices incorporated.

 

PE Weights 1

Grades: 9

Credits: 0.5 Physical Education

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: None

This class is designed for student athletes who are interested in adding a weight training regimen to the freshman PE curriculum. This class will promote lifelong fitness through cardio-respiratory conditioning, muscular strength, endurance, and flexibility. In addition to typical PE concepts, athletes will participate in a weight training regimen to help them compete in sports and activities.

 

Strength & Speed

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Physical Education

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: None

This course is specially designed for students interested in developing speed, power, and agility. The focus will be on the principles of weight training, plyometrics, agility training, and techniques of powerlifting. This course will emphasize the five components of fitness: cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, and body composition. Students will participate in cardiovascular assessments throughout each quarter.

 

Advanced Strength & Speed

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Physical Education

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Strength & Speed

Other: RCC credit may be available

This course is designed for students and athletes who have successfully completed Strength and Speed and are interested in developing speed, power, and agility. The focus will be on the principles of weight training, plyometrics, agility training, and powerlifting. Students taking this class should be capable of handling a physically demanding workout. This course will emphasize the five components of fitness: cardiovascular fitness, muscular endurance, muscular strength, flexibility, and body composition.

Biology

Grades: 9                                                                                                               

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science                                        

Repeat for Credit: No                 

Prerequisite: None

Biology is a laboratory-based course aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) that introduces students to the fundamental principles of living systems. Emphasis is placed on developing core scientific practices, including designing and conducting investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, constructing explanations, and supporting claims with evidence. Students will explore major areas of biological science such as cellular structure and function, biochemistry and cell processes, genetics and heredity, photosynthesis and cellular respiration, ecology and environmental interactions, evolutionary theory, and key connections to Earth and Space Science. This course fulfills the lab science requirement for graduation, and students should expect regular hands-on investigations, collaborative learning experiences, and opportunities to apply scientific reasoning to real-world biological issues

 

Pre-AP Biology

Grades: 9

Level: Honors

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra or a higher math course and instructor approval

Pre-AP Biology is a challenging, conceptually rich science course designed to build the strong analytical and quantitative skills needed for future advanced science classes. Students explore the core principles of biology—including energy flow through systems, ecology, cell structure and function, photosynthesis, cellular respiration, mitosis, heredity and biotechnology, protein synthesis, gene expression, evolution, and natural selection-through an inquiry-based, problem-solving approach. The course emphasizes not only understanding biological concepts, but also applying them to real-world contexts. Students regularly engage in scientific and engineering practices such as modeling, data analysis, evidence-based reasoning, and experimental design. Learning experiences include collaborative investigations and laboratory work.

 

Healthcare Biology    

Grades: 9                                              

Pathway: Health Careers                       

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science                            

Repeat for Credit: No                    

Prerequisite: None

Healthcare Biology is an immersive, lab-based biology course that explores both local and global healthcare challenges. Fully aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards, the course weaves together core biological concepts with real-world topics such as environmental health, DNA analysis, genetics of disease, antibiotic resistance, public health, epidemiology, and human body systems. Students engage in dynamic, hands-on inquiry labs designed to spark curiosity, tackle complex scientific questions, and deepen understanding of how biology drives modern medicine. The curriculum encourages students to think like healthcare professionals as they analyze case studies and apply biological principles to medical scenarios. By connecting classroom learning to current healthcare issues, the course empowers students to see the relevance of biology in their own lives and communities. Healthcare Biology offers a rigorous and inspiring foundation for students interested in pursuing future studies or careers in science, medicine, or public health.

 

Chemistry

Grades: 10

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 or higher

This rigorous, full-year, lab-based course engages students in the study of the composition, properties, changes, and interactions of matter. The course covers the basic concepts of chemistry, including some applied topics in earth science. Topics covered include lab skills and safety, kinetic molecular theory, climate change, atomic structure, periodic table, nuclear chemistry, bonding and intermolecular forces, chemical reactions and quantities, thermochemistry, equilibrium, and ocean acidification. Included in the course are many laboratory experiments designed to encourage higher-order thinking skills. These experiments are fundamental in developing students’ ability to learn and think independently. Throughout the course, students will solve problems, reason abstractly, use models, and learn to think critically about the fundamental building blocks of the universe.

 

Chemistry Honors

Grades: 10                                             

Level: Honors                                 

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science                            

Repeat for Credit: No                                 

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2 or higher and instructor approval

This course covers related topics in the Next Generation Science Standards in a thorough, systematic manner.  Students who earn A’s and/or B’s all four quarters are considered well prepared to take AP Chemistry.  This is an advanced science course which covers topics including lab skills and safety, data analysis, classification of matter, atomic structure, mole concept, balancing and types of reactions, stoichiometry, phases of matter and phase changes, thermochemistry, gas laws, Periodic Law and periodic trends, molecular bonding, Valence Shell Electron Pair Repulsion Theory, intermolecular forces, solution chemistry, kinetics, acids and bases, and equilibrium.  Topics are explored at an accelerated rate, in greater depth, and with a greater use of mathematics. Emphasis is placed on not merely knowing a theory or concept, but also on understanding its application. This course requires work to be completed outside of the school day hours. Student knowledge is expanded through collaborative learning, lectures, laboratory activities, classroom discussion, textbook readings, and demonstrations. This class is dual credited with Southern Oregon University and provides students the opportunity to earn 4 college credit hours.

 

Physics

Grades: 11-12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

This physics course provides students with an understanding of the fundamental scientific principles related to motion, force, energy, and wave phenomena in relation to sound and light. This course will also connect Earth and space science standards. Students will learn to relate their growing scientific awareness to their own environment and will increase their computational and laboratory skills.

 

AP Physics

Grades: 11-12

Level: AP

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus or higher

AP Physics is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their understanding of physics through classroom study, in-class activity, and hands-on, inquiry-based laboratory work as they explore concepts like systems, fields, force interactions, change, conservation, and waves.

 

Environmental Science

Grades: 10-12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

This course covers the complex interactions between Earth’s major systems (biosphere, hydrosphere, geosphere, atmosphere) with a distinct focus placed on human environmental impacts and the importance of sustainability. Students will cultivate their scientific critical thinking skills while researching environmental issues that affect us on a local level in the Rogue Valley (wildfires, air quality, forestry, agriculture, water quality, waste management) and environmental issues that impact health, survival, biodiversity on a global scale (climate change, ecosystem dynamics, overconsumption, renewable energy, pollution, ocean acidification, deforestation, overpopulation). AP Environmental Science (listed below) is faster-paced and offers the potential for college credit.

 

AP Biology

Grades: 11-12                                      

Level: AP                                                   

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science                           

Repeat for Credit: No                                 

Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry recommended

Other: SOU credits may be available                                              

AP Biology is an advanced, laboratory-based science course aligned with the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and the College Board AP Biology framework. This course provides students with a rigorous understanding of biological concepts while emphasizing the development of essential scientific practices, including designing and conducting investigations, analyzing and interpreting data, constructing explanations, and supporting claims with evidence. Students will engage in an in-depth study of major areas of biology, including cellular and molecular biology, genetics and heredity, physiology, ecology and evolution, and interdisciplinary connections to Earth and Space Science. The course includes extensive laboratory investigations designed to develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills, preparing students for the AP Biology exam and college-level coursework. This course fulfills the lab science requirement for graduation. Students should be prepared for a challenging, inquiry-based learning environment that combines collaborative work, independent study, and opportunities to apply scientific reasoning to real-world biological problems.

 

AP Chemistry

Grades: 11-12

Level: AP

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Chemistry Honors

Other: SOU credits may be available

AP Chemistry is a fast-paced college-level course. This course will develop students’ ability to master advanced chemistry concepts, knowledge, and skills defined by the AP College Board and is assessed at the end of the year by the AP Chemistry exam. Additionally, along with the foundations critical to success in future college-level coursework, this course also develops critical thinking skills, logic, and reasoning. This course requires substantial work to be completed outside of regular school hours, including assigned reading, online homework, and watching AP Chemistry videos. Student knowledge is expanded through collaborative learning, lectures, laboratory activities, classroom discussion, and demonstrations. Topics covered are the structure and properties of Atoms, Molecular and Ionic Compounds, Intermolecular Forces and Properties, Chemical Reactions, Kinetics, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, Acids and Bases, and Further Applications of Thermodynamics. Students can earn up to 15 college credit hours depending on earning a passing score on the AP exam and meeting college or university standards. These credit hours are regarded as 200-level credit, which is a college sophomore-level credit.

 

AP Environmental Science

Grades: 10-12                                                                                                  

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science                            

Repeat for Credit: No                                 

Prerequisite: Biology & instructor approval

Other: SOU credit may be available

The AP Environmental Science course offers students a deeper understanding of the interrelationships of the natural world. Throughout the course and its lab sessions, students will analyze environmental problems, evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and examine alternative solutions for resolving or preventing them. This interdisciplinary course embraces topics from geology, biology, environmental studies, environmental science, chemistry, and geography. The AP Environmental Science course is designed to be the equivalent of a one-year college course in Environmental Science. Students can receive 8 units PLUS a lab credit from Southern Oregon University (ES101, ES102). Students also have the potential to receive college credits through taking the AP exam at the end of the course.

 

Human Anatomy & Physiology (*Health Pathways Course*)

Grades: 10-12

Pathway: Health Careers

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Honors Biology or instructor approval

Other: SOU credit may be available

Human Anatomy & Physiology is an advanced, college-level biological course of study that offers a deep dive into the human body structures (anatomy) and functions (physiology). The course covers basic chemistry, tissues, and the major organ systems (integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, endocrine, cardiovascular, respiratory, digestive, immune, excretory, reproductive). Key themes include homeostasis, structure-function relationships, and system integration, enhanced with hands-on labs (dissections, clay mannequins, model-building, EKGS, etc.), case studies, and medical terminology to prepare students for health careers or college biology. Southern Oregon University college credit for BI-199 (4 credits per semester) is available.

 

Botany/Horticulture

Grades: 10-12                                                                                                       

NCAA Approved: No

Credits: 0.5 Elective                       

Repeat for Credit: Yes (Cannot take the same semester twice)

Prerequisite: Biology or instructor approval                   

Horticulture is an engaging field-based life science course that investigates the role and importance of plants in our environment. Students investigate the germination of seeds and the factors required for plants to grow. Classification and identification of plants and the use of plants within our environment are emphasized to help minimize the impact of humans on the planet. Students will further explore plant anatomy, reproductive strategies, and the essential plant nutrients required for proper plant growth. Time will be dedicated to work within the school’s greenhouse, gardens, campus landscaping, and off-campus projects to learn how to apply plant science and gardening techniques to their own homes in the future.

 

Wilderness Medicine

Grades: 11-12

NCAA Approved: No

Credits: 0.5 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes (Cannot take the same semester twice)

Prerequisite: None

This course is based on ecology, environmental science, and medical considerations in the wilderness. A heavy emphasis will be placed on local ecosystems. Medical topics will include: wild animal attacks, waterborne illness, travel medicine, altitude illness, swift water rescue, survival, and many others. 

 

Astronomy

Grades: 11-12

Level: Honors

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Algebra

Explore the universe through the lens of physics in this engaging and interactive NGSS-aligned high school astronomy course. This course delves into the physics principles governing celestial bodies, cosmic phenomena, and the forces that shape our universe. Students will apply concepts from mechanics, electromagnetism, thermodynamics, and optics to better understand the cosmos, from the motion of planets and the life cycle of stars to the nature of black holes and galaxies.

Keys include:

· The structure and scale of the universe

· Gravitational forces and orbital mechanics

· The nature of light and telescopic observation

· The life cycles of stars and stellar evolution

· The physics of planetary systems and moons

· The study of galaxies, dark matter, and dark energy

· Space exploration and modern astrophysics

Through a combination of theoretical lessons, hands-on experiments, and practical observation of the night sky, students will develop a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of physics and astronomy. The course will also introduce students to the latest technological advances in space exploration and research. By the end of the course, students will not only gain insight into the wonders of the universe but will also strengthen their problem-solving and critical thinking skills. (Transportation is not provided for South Medford High School students.)

World Studies

Grades: 9                                                                                                               

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Social Science                              

Repeat for Credit: No                              

Prerequisite: None

In World Studies, we cover an expanse of world history, from Latin America to Europe, Asia, and Africa, focusing on political, economic, and cultural systems throughout time. Along the way, we work to improve student skills in analyzing historical texts and active reading. We also focus on the process of writing, giving students the tools and feedback they need to create persuasive arguments. Finally, we interpret maps from different areas of the world and time periods, in order to analyze continuity and change in history over time.

 

AP Human Geography

Grades: 9

Level: AP

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Social Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Open enrollment with instructor approval

Articulated with the College Board’s curriculum and designed to parallel college-level Human Geography courses. AP Human Geography introduces high school students to college-level introductory human geography or cultural geography. The content is presented thematically rather than regionally and is organized around the discipline’s main subfields: economic geography, cultural geography, political geography, and urban geography. The approach is spatial and problem-oriented. Case studies are drawn from all world regions, with an emphasis on understanding the world in which we live today. Historical information serves to enrich analysis of the impacts of phenomena such as globalization, colonialism, and human–environment relationships on places, regions, cultural landscapes, and patterns of interaction.

 

American Studies

Grades: 11

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Social Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

American Studies provides an overview of the history of the United States, primarily examining 20th-century American History from the post-Civil War era into the 21st century. This course examines the political, social, and economic aspects of America’s past with an emphasis on historical analysis, multiple perspectives based on critical thinking, and comparisons between current events and historical events. Students will engage with primary sources, conduct research, and engage in civic debates and seminars to bring American history to life.

 

AP US History

Grades: 11

Level: AP  

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Social Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Open enrollment with instructor approval

Other:  SOU credits may be available

AP US History prepares students for the AP exam in US History and provides students with the analytical skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the events, people, concepts, and problems associated with United States history. Students learn to assess historical materials and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship. Students will engage in historical essay writing using a variety of historical skills, including argumentation, interpretation, contextualization, causation, continuity and change, and periodization. AP United States History is equivalent to an entry-level college survey course. Students will take the College Board exam in May, for which scores may warrant the awarding of college credits.

 

Civics

Grades: 12                                                                                                             

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 0.5 Social Science                              

Repeat for Credit: No                              

Prerequisite: None

This course is designed to empower students with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage as informed, thoughtful, and active participants in a democratic society. The Civics curriculum focuses on key areas, including: the structure and function of government at the local, state, and federal levels; the rights and responsibilities of citizenship; the election process and the role of political parties; civil discourse, media literacy, and critical thinking in evaluating current events and societal issues; the significance of civic participation, advocacy, and community involvement. This course encourages students to explore the foundations of democracy while equipping them with tools to contribute meaningfully to their communities and beyond.

 

Economics

Grades: 12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 0.5 Social Science

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

This course provides students with a general overview of fundamental macroeconomic concepts. Students will learn to use economic concepts in dealing with personal, community, national, and global economic issues. The primary focus of the class will be on studying the American free enterprise system and the role of markets, competition, and entrepreneurship in it. Other topics covered include units on fiscal and monetary policy, comparative economic systems, and globalization and international trade. 

 

AP US Government & Politics

Grades: 11-12

Level: AP  

NCAA Approved: Yes     

Repeat for Credit: No

Credits: 1.0 Social Science

Other: SOU credits may be available

Prerequisite: Open enrollment with instructor approval

AP U.S. Government and Politics is a college-level year-long course that not only seeks to prepare students for success on the AP Exam in May, but also provides students with the political knowledge and reasoning processes to participate meaningfully and thoughtfully in discussions and debates that are currently shaping American politics and society. It is important to note that this course is not a history course; it is a political science course that studies the interconnectedness of the different parts of the American political system, as well as the behaviors and attitudes that shape this system and are byproducts of this system.

AP U.S. Government and Politics accomplishes these goals by framing the acquisition of political knowledge around enduring understandings and big ideas about American government and politics that can be applied to a set of disciplinary practices by using a set of reasoning processes. Through the development of this set of political knowledge, disciplinary practices, and reasoning processes, students will be able to analyze current and historical political events like a political scientist and develop factually accurate, well-reasoned, thoughtful arguments and opinions that acknowledge and grapple with alternative political perspectives.

 

Introduction to Law

Grades: 10-12                                                                                                       

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 0.5 Elective/Social Studies 

Repeat for Credit: No       

Prerequisite: None                                           

For students interested in working in law enforcement or as an attorney, this course would be a great option. Introduction to Law is designed to help students understand and appreciate the impact of law and the legal system in our society. Students will learn how the legal system functions, the constitutional underpinnings of our civil rights and civil liberties, and examine case studies that help analyze both the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of the legal system’s operations. Be prepared to write!

ELD Level 1 - Beginner

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 1.0 Elective                                       

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Placement based on data                           

Non-English proficient students are given intensive English Language Development using the state-approved Systematic English Language Development program (ELD), comprised of 5 levels. Courses focus on vocabulary and grammar development, reading, writing, and speaking. Students may enroll in non-ELL courses. Emphasis in all classes is on developing English language proficiency and pronunciation. Elective credit will be earned for all ELD courses taken and passed.

 

ELD Level 2 - Beginner

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Placement based on need

Non-English proficient students are given intensive English Language Development using the state-approved Systematic English Language Development program (ELD), comprised of 5 levels. Courses focus on vocabulary and grammar development, reading, writing, and speaking. Students may enroll in non-ELL courses. Emphasis in all classes is on developing English language proficiency and pronunciation. Elective credit will be earned for all ELD courses taken and passed.

 

ELD Level 3 - Intermediate

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Score of 2 required on ELPA

English learners at this level have developed some competence in oral and conversational English. Course continues to focus on vocabulary and grammar development, with continued emphasis on reading, writing, and speaking. These students will also be enrolled in mainstream courses.

 

ELD Level 4 - Advanced

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Score of 3 required on ELPAa

ELL students at this level have developed a significant level of competence in oral and conversational English, but may need additional support with specialized vocabulary, reading, and writing skills. A student may exit the ELL program by passing the ELPA exam (English Language Proficiency Assessment). Results from the ELPA exam will be considered in addition to the sample. Emphasis for this course is on academic vocabulary, writing, and higher-level grammatical forms. These students will also be enrolled in mainstream courses.

 

ELD Level 5 - Advanced

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Score of 4 required on ELPA

ELL students at this level have developed a significant level of competence in oral and conversational English but may need additional support with specialized vocabulary, reading, and writing skills. A student may exit the ELL program by passing the ELPA exam (English Language Proficiency Assessment). Emphasis for this course is on academic vocabulary, writing, and higher-level grammatical forms. Level 5 students will exhibit more advanced paragraph construction. These students will also be enrolled in mainstream courses.

 

Academic Language & Literacy

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 1.0                                                        

Repeat for Credit: Yes                             

Prerequisite: Concurrent enrollment in ELD 1/2                           

This course is designed to build the academic language skills and support the academic success of students at the beginning levels of English language development. The overarching purpose of the class is to accelerate language development so students can better access the content of core classes. Key components of the class are: reading fiction and non-fiction texts, informative and argumentative writing, developing academic vocabulary and oral proficiency, with structured and academic talk, and additional content support.

 

Spanish 1

Grades: 9-12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

First-year courses build a foundation for eventual oral proficiency. Students begin developing speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills as well as cultural awareness. Students communicate by using high-frequency vocabulary and expressions while developing essential pronunciation skills.

 

Spanish 2

Grades: 9-12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Spanish 1

Students will continue to build and expand upon their learning from their first year of language study.  Students will learn to express themselves on everyday topics using language that is more complex and detailed, and will further develop their knowledge and understanding of the target culture(s).

 

Spanish 3

Grades: 10-12

Level: Honors

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Spanish 2

Third-year world language courses emphasize the ability to communicate with native speakers in a culturally appropriate manner. Emphasis is on oral proficiency and creative production with the language. Vocabulary will focus on familiar, common topics and everyday situations. Students will be able to initiate, sustain, and close an extended conversation. Students who are able to demonstrate requisite proficiency will be afforded opportunities to earn college credit and the Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy.

 

Spanish 4/5

Grades: 11-12

Level: Honors

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Spanish 3

Fourth/Fifth-year world language courses emphasize the ability to communicate with native speakers in a culturally appropriate manner. Emphasis is on oral proficiency and creative production with the language. Students will be able to initiate, sustain, and close an extended conversation. Topical vocabulary will be expanded to include situations that are both familiar and unfamiliar, and emphasis will be on the sustained and creative use of the language. Students who are able to demonstrate requisite proficiency will be afforded opportunities to earn college credit and the Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy.

 

Heritage Spanish 3

Grades: 9-12                                                                                                          

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Art/CTE/2nd Language     

Repeat for Credit: No                              

Prerequisite: Open enrollment with instructor approval                                                                           

The Spanish for Heritage Speakers’ class is designed to refine, enhance, and build Spanish reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills at the advanced level. This is required to earn the Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy, which has many benefits for college and career options that include building a resume, strengthening candidacy for college admission, helping to obtain scholarships, and expanding job opportunities. The class is intended to help students develop a diverse portfolio that will showcase a variety of writing styles and prepare them for college-level reading, writing, and thinking.

 

Heritage Spanish 4

Grades: 9-12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Art/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Heritage 3 or instructor approval

At the Pre-AP level, academically motivated Spanish-speaking students will build on the foundational reading, listening,  writing, and speaking skills gained in Heritage 3. The focus of this college-preparatory course is language acquisition at the novice-high to intermediate-low proficiency levels and preparation for the demands, depth, and complexity of the AP Spanish Language and Culture Course.

 

AP Spanish Language For Heritage Speakers

Grades: 11-12

Level: AP

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Heritage 4/Pre-AP or instructor approval

The AP Spanish Language and Culture course is a rigorous course taught exclusively in Spanish that requires students to improve their proficiency across the three modes of communication [CR1]. The course focuses on the integration of authentic resources, including online print, audio, and audiovisual resources, as well as traditional print resources that include literature, essays, and magazine and newspaper articles, with the goal of providing a rich, diverse learning experience. Students communicate using rich, advanced vocabulary and linguistic structures as they build proficiency in all modes of communication toward the pre-advanced level. Organization: The course is divided into thematic units, which are further based on recommended contexts and guided by essential questions. Corresponding cultural elements are integrated into the study of the units, and activities are directed with those cultural connections in mind. Discussion of the topics completely in Spanish is a requirement for this course. It is assumed that students have previously been exposed to advanced language structures in the courses leading up to the AP Spanish Language and Culture course; however, review of the mechanics is done within the contextual framework of each unit as needed.

 

AP Spanish Literature

Grades: 11-12

Level: AP

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: AP Spanish Language or instructor approval

AP Spanish Literature and Culture is designed to introduce students to the formal study of Peninsular Spanish, Latin American, and U.S. Hispanic literature. The course aims to develop students’ critical reading and analytical writing skills in Spanish as well as their ability to make interdisciplinary connections and explore linguistic and cultural comparisons. This class will be conducted entirely in Spanish, appropriate to this level, and covers the entire official AP Spanish Literature and Culture reading list. Literary texts are grouped by themes and presented in chronological order within each theme. Students are expected to discuss literary texts and their different historical, socio-cultural, and geopolitical contexts in a variety of interactive oral and written formats in Spanish. Additionally, students will analyze themes and features of artistic representations, audiovisual materials, and audio sources in Spanish related to course content.

 

French 1

Grades: 9-12                                                                                                          

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language     

Repeat for Credit: No                              

Prerequisite: None                                                                                                            

First-year courses build a foundation for eventual oral proficiency. Students begin developing speaking, reading, writing, and listening skills as well as cultural awareness. Students communicate by using high-frequency vocabulary and expressions while developing essential pronunciation skills.

 

French 2

Grades: 9-12

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: French 1

Students will continue to build and expand upon their learning from their first year of language study.  Students will learn to express themselves on everyday topics using language that is more complex and detailed, and will further develop their knowledge and understanding of the target culture(s).

 

French 3/4

Grades: 10-12

Level: Honors

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Arts/CTE/2nd Language

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: French 2

Other: RCC credit may be available

Third and fourth-year world language courses emphasize the ability to communicate with native speakers in a culturally appropriate manner. Emphasis is on oral proficiency and creative production with the language. Vocabulary will focus on familiar, common topics and everyday situations. Students will be able to initiate, sustain, and close an extended conversation. 

Students who are able to demonstrate requisite proficiency will be afforded opportunities to earn college credit and the Oregon State Seal of Biliteracy.

Alternative Education - General Education Skills

Grades: 11-12                                                                

Credits: N/A                                                       

Repeat for Credit: N/A

Prerequisite: Administrator approval                               

General Education Skills (GES) is designed to improve skills in reading, writing, mathematics, science, and social science. GED test preparation materials are used. This program is only for students who wish to obtain their GED. Official testing is administered at Rogue Community College or North Medford High School.

 

AP Psychology

Grades: 10-12

Level: AP

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: None

Other:  SOU credit may be available

AP Psychology is a college-level course designed to prepare students to pass the AP exam in Psychology in May. The course focuses on the scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and other animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. Students in this course will also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. Topics include research methods, the biology of mind, human development, sensation and perception, learning, memory, motivation, emotions, personality, social psychology, abnormal behavior and therapy, among others. This course has more depth and a faster pace than the regular psychology course and involves extensive reading and writing.

 

Cooperative Work Experience

Grades: 11-12

Credits: 0.5 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Instructor approval

Students who work for local businesses 10 hours per week or more, working a total of 180 hours minimum per semester, who turn in pay stubs as verification and attend monthly meetings at South may earn elective credit. Students may not work for their family business. Self-employment will not count.

 

Criminal Law

Grades: 10-12

Pathway: Law

NCAA Approved: Yes

Credits: 0.5 Elective

Repeat for Credit: No

Prerequisite: Introduction to Law

Other: SOU credit may be available

Criminal Law is an exploration of the historical development, current operation, and future trends of criminal justice. Emphasis will be placed on contemporary problems in the definition of law, the enforcement of law, strategies of policing, judicial systems, sentencing strategies, correctional practices, and emerging forms of justice. While the focus of the content will be practices in the United States, we will also look at other cultures and their systems of justice. Students will be introduced to the notion that our definitions of what constitutes a “crime”, how society responds to it, and how we explain crime and criminals have changed over time. Similarly, those methods used to measure and compare crime have also changed, and students will be introduced to the major sources of our understanding of what we know about the extent of crime in society. A broad survey of the origins, historical development of policing, prosecution, adjudication, sentencing, and corrections in the United States will provide students with a basic understanding of the administration of criminal justice and challenge them to decide whether the criminal justice system is a “system” or a “process”.

 

Credit Retrieval

Grades: 10-12                                                                

Credits: Varies                                                              

Repeat for Credit: N/A

Prerequisite: Assigned by counselor                                   

Credit Retrieval offers students the opportunity to recover credit for core courses that were failed through the use of an online learning tool. Students may only earn 1.0 credit in each core subject area.

 

Engage

Grades: 11-12

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Credits: .5 EL

Prerequisite: Administrator approval

Engage supports the success of each student in their current classes by focusing on individual needs and by reinforcing habits that lead to academic success, including prioritization, organization, perseverance, self-advocacy, and awareness of focus. In addition, students can retrieve credits in core subjects by completing projects, some of which include career interest exploration. The classroom environment is personal, encouraging, and supportive.

 

Graphic Novel

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 0.5 Elective

Repeat for Credit: No

Read comic art—in the form of comic strips, graphic novels, superhero tales, and memoirs. Learn the history of this medium, use new vocabulary to examine the text, and examine the various techniques available to comic artists. Last, explore the future of comic art: what can be done with new methods and technology?

 

Leadership

Grades: 11-12

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Audition required

This program is the cornerstone for many of the activities that take place at SMHS and is comprised of LINK Crew members. It requires dedication, creativity, and intense participation. Leadership students will learn about community service, spirit activities, service to the school, organization, assembly planning, and leadership attributes and skills. Students will spend a great deal of time and effort developing into young community leaders; embracing integrity, empathy, passion, accountability, responsibility, people skills, compassion, problem-solving, and other related character traits and skills.

 

Link Crew

Grades: 11-12

Credits: Up to .25 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Instructor approval

LINK Crew is a responsible group of upperclassmen who will mentor 9th-grade students throughout the year. These students have numerous positive qualities and will be trained by staff members on the methodology of the LINK program. There will be mandatory training sessions such as May Development Day, Link Leader Training in August, Frosh Orientation, and other sessions throughout the year. In addition, these students will be asked to participate in numerous leadership and community service activities.

 

Mock Trial

Grades: 11-12

Pathway: Law

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Criminal Law

Mock Trial is the focused study of the intersection between trial law and courtroom procedure. This class will prepare students to analyze criminal cases based on merit, to select jury members, create strategies for both defending and prosecuting defendants, and to present evidence in a courtroom setting in an attempt to “win” a legal case. This class will be interactive, as students will be expected to argue routinely for the guilt or innocence of alleged criminals.

 

Speech & Debate

Grades: 9-12

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: None

Other: SOU credit may be available

This course is intended to prepare students for competition in the OSAA and NSDA-sanctioned speech tournaments. Through participation in the class, students will gain confidence in their speaking abilities, learn organization and time management skills, and prepare and practice speeches and debates. In addition to tournament competition, they will also focus on developing listening, writing, and analyzing abilities through classroom participation and demonstration.

 

Student Aides

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 0.5 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Instructor approval

A student aide will support the staff member to whom they are assigned through task completion that will support the teaching and learning environment. Regular attendance and dependability are required to earn credit.

 

Student Government

Grades: 9-12                                                      

Credits: 1.0 Elective                                         

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Instructor approval & election     

The Associated Student Body officers will consist of a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. Each class office will consist of a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer. All elected officers will be enrolled in Student Government during their term of office. The elected students in this course are pivotal in furthering the mission and vision of SMHS, and work closely with Links and Leadership.  It requires dedication, creativity, and intense participation. The class will follow The 4 Seasons of ASB. Students will learn about community service, service to the school, spirit, organization, gathering and analysis of data, and leadership attributes and skills.

 

Tutorial Courses

Grades:  9-12

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Instructor approval

Tutorial provides individualized support to students on an Individualized Education Plan (IEP), offering specially designed instruction tailored to their unique learning needs. Students receive focused academic assistance in a small-group or one-on-one setting, ensuring they develop essential skills for academic success and independence.

 

Yearbook

Grades: 10-12

Credits: 1.0 Elective

Repeat for Credit: Yes

Prerequisite: Instructor approval

Students in this class produce the school’s yearbook. Students with skills in photography, writing, and digital layout design are encouraged to apply for staff positions. Yearbook staff members are selected by the instructor on the basis of application, interview, and instructor recommendation.