WHS-Academics

TAKS ENGLISH LANGUAGE ARTS REMEDIATION
One Credit (Local)
This course is REQUIRED for students who fail 8th, 9th, 10th and/or 11th grade English Language Arts TAKS. This course serves as a second hour of English for local credit to build English Language Arts and Writing skills. This course remediates skills for TAKS and English 1-3 to assist students in being successful on TAKS.

ENGLISH I
One Credit
English I is a mandatory course for graduation. Students may take Pre-Advanced Placement English I in place of English I. The literature is genre based, including short stories, nonfiction, the epic, drama, poetry, and novels. Through the literature, the course focuses on reading skills and strategies, composition skills, language usage, and TAKS preparation. It stresses development of grammar skills and communication through reading, writing, speaking, listening, and evaluating.

ENGLISH II
One Credit
English II is a mandatory course for graduation. Pre-Advanced Placement English II may be taken in place of English II. The course is a survey of many types of literature from various cultures. After reading and analyzing short stories, nonfiction articles, poetry, two novels, and Shakespearean drama, the student responds in writing. The skill of writing is enhanced through grammar practice. Writing assignments range from well-elaborated paragraphs to multi-paragraph compositions. In this reading and writing format, the student is also prepared for TAKS.

ENGLISH III
One Credit
English III is a mandatory course for graduation. AP English Language and Composition may be taken in place of English III. English III is a cohesive study of literature, grammar, and writing. The literature is a chronological study of American literature with selections from worldwide authors included. The course stresses communication skills through reading, writing, speaking, listening, and evaluating and TAKS preparation.

ENGLISH IV
One Credit
English IV is a mandatory course for graduation. Dual Credit or Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition may be taken in place of English IV. It is a survey study of British literature from the Anglo-Saxon society to the early twentieth century. Diverse selections from a variety of literary genres become starting points for research, discussions, essays, creative responses, projects, and publications with the purpose of exploring British culture as it relates to the students’ world today. Internet capabilities and computer technology support classroom instruction. Standardized college entry test preparation includes a focus on grammar, vocabulary, and reasoning skills.

PRE-AP ENGLISH I – Reading/Writing Intensive
One Credit (weighted course) PRE-AP ENGLISH I offers the English I curriculum with enrichment through novels and projects.

PRE-AP ENGLISH II - Reading/Writing Intensive
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Pre-AP English I (with an 80 average or above) or English I (with a 90 average or above); Pre-AP English II covers the English II curriculum. In addition, seven novels and a collection of short stories are required reading.

AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION III- Reading/Writing Intensive
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Pre-AP English II (with an average of 80 or above) or English II (with an average of 90 or above)
AP English Language and Composition offers college level studies of American Literature, especially nonfiction and rhetoric. Close reading as well as critical writing techniques are the focus. Independent reading and extended writing assignments are integral parts of the course. Students will be required to take the College Board exam in May.

DUAL CREDIT ENGLISH 1301/1302
See Counselor for more information

READING I - III
One Credit
The course will focus on reading strategies and increasing reading fluency. The components will allow students to practice a variety of skills that improve their reading: predicting; visualizing; listening; reading independently; analyzing style as a way of conveying meaning; recognizing unidentified vocabulary through context; increasing knowledge of frequently used words; answering critical thinking questions; and applying readings to real-world situations. This class is intended to help students with both reading comprehension and vocabulary recognition, while increasing overall confidence about approaching new and complex texts.

COMMUNICATION APPLICATIONS
One-half Credit (one semester)
Required for graduation. Fulfills the 1/2 credit speech requirement for all graduation plans.
Students enrolled in Communication Applications will be expected to identify, analyze, develop, and evaluate communication skills needed for leadership roles and social success in interpersonal situations, group interactions, and personal and professional presentations.

UIL COMPETITIVE SPEAKING
One Credit (Local)
Prerequisite: UIL Coordinator approval/UIL Academics Experience
UIL class will prepare students to compete in UIL speech and Academic Tournaments. This class will challenge students to take their academic knowledge to a competitive level. Students will be required to compete in Saturday Academic Tournaments.

UIL DEBATE I - III
One Credit
Debate stresses principals and practice of Argument and Debate. Students construct arguments and present them in both a public speaking and debate format. The goals of this course are to enhance critical thinking skills and to develop proficiency in generating and constructing effective arguments. Students will be required to compete in Saturday Debate Tournaments.

ADVANCED JOURNALISM: YEARBOOK I – III
One Credit (Local)
Prerequisite: Teacher Approval, Grades 10-12
Yearbook is a one-year course designed to offer students the elements and processes of publishing the high school yearbook and includes instruction in appropriate software programs. Students will learn journalistic composition and editing techniques; practical application of these skills is provided through production of the Trojan yearbook. Laboratory skills in photography and yearbook design are also emphasized. Students will be expected to work after school, in addition to class times. Attendance at the Jostens’s Summer Journalism Workshop is mandatory. Students will be responsible for personal expenses only during the workshop. Class involves coverage of school activities before and after school.

ADVANCED JOURNALISM: NEWSPAPER I - III
One Credit
Prerequitsite: Teacher Approval; Grades 10-12
Students are expected to plan, draft, and publish the school newspaper, carefully examining their copy for clarity, engaging language, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics of written English. Students are also expected to become analytical consumers of media and technology to enhance their communication skills. In addition, students will learn journalistic ethics and standards. Writing and technology (Desktop Publishing and Digital Photography) are used as tools for learning as students create, clarify, critique, write, and produce effective communications to their student body. Class involves coverage of school activities before and after school.

FOREIGN LANGUAGE

NOTE: THE DISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT PLAN REQUIRES THREE YEARS OF THE SAME FOREIGN LANGUAGE AND THE RECOMMENDED PLAN REQUIRES TWO YEARS OF THE SAME LANGUAGE.

SPANISH I – III - Classroom

Levels III's grade is weighted because of high performance and skill requirements.

One Credit per year. Courses must be taken in sequence.

These language courses are recommended for the college-bound as well as the career-minded student for whom the knowledge of a foreign language is a valuable asset. In the first year courses, students begin sequential development of the skills needed to understand and speak the foreign language. Reading, writing, listening and speaking activities use the target language to assist with the development of skills. Reading consists primarily of elements that the student has learned to understand and speak. Writing is done primarily to reinforce grammar.

The second and third year levels introduce further vocabulary and grammar. Students continue to use reading, writing, listening and speaking activities to further develop competency in the language. The foreign language is increasingly used as the vehicle for meaningful communication. Students in all levels study the culture of the countries where the language is spoken.

SPANISH I
One Credit
In Spanish I students begin sequential development of the skills needed to understand and speak the foreign language. Reading, writing, listening and speaking activities use the target language to assist with the development of skills.

SPANISH II
One Credit
Prerequisite: Spanish I
In Spanish II students will be introduced to further vocabulary and grammar. Students continue to use reading, writing, listening and speaking activities to further develop competency in the language.

PAP SPANISH III
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Spanish I and II
AP Spanish III introduces further vocabulary and grammar. Spanish is used increasingly as the vehicle for meaningful communication.

DUAL CREDIT SPANISH
One Credit (weighted course)
Spanish 1411: Introduces the essentials of pronunciation and grammar through oral and written practice. A communication-based approach is used to practice all language skills.
Prerequisite: PAP Spanish I or teacher recommendation

Spanish 1412: Emphasizes the essentials of pronunciation and grammar through oral and written practice. All language skills are utilized in a communication-based approach.
Prerequisite: Spanish 1411

Spanish 2311: Reviews Spanish grammar through oral and written practice. All language skills are utilized in a communication-based approach.
Prerequisite: Spanish 1412 or PAP Spanish III

Spanish 2312: Reviews Spanish grammar through oral and written practice. Utilizes cultural reading selections in Spanish to expand vocabulary and knowledge of the Hispanic culture.
Prerequisite: Spanish 2311

MATHEMATICS

TAKS MATH REMEDIATION
One Credit (Local)
This course is REQUIRED for students who fail 8th, 9th, 10th and/or 11th grade TAKS. This course serves as a second hour of Math for local credit to build Math skills. This course remediates skills for TAKS and Math knowledge to assist students in being successful on TAKS.

ALGEBRA I
One Credit
The purpose of Algebra I is to acquaint students with some of the fundamental properties of the real number system, to give them practice, in deductive reasoning, introduce algebraic notation and graphing, begin a study of linear and nonlinear relations, and apply algebraic manipulations to solve equations, inequalities, and word-stated problems.

GEOMETRY
One Credit
Prerequisite: Algebra I
Geometry involves the recognition of two-dimensional figures and their properties, as well as the study of three-dimensional figures. It increases the ability to deal with spatial concepts. Geometry also develops logic and reasoning skills through formal proofs of various theorems and properties.

PRE-AP GEOMETRY
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Pre-AP Algebra 1 (with course average of 80), Algebra 1 (with course average of 85).
Pre-AP Geometry will include the topics in Geometry along with an emphasis on problem solving and will also require students to do high-level reasoning. The student will be required to do out-of-class projects.

MATHEMATICAL MODELS WITH APPLICATIONS
One credit
Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry.
Mathematical Models with Applications is a mathematical process course that uses calculations, equations, graphs, and systems of equations to describe and explain real world situations.

ALGEBRA II
One Credit
Prerequisite: Algebra I and Geometry
A solid background and credit in Algebra I and Geometry is required. The study of Algebra II allows students to develop logical reasoning skills by implementing fundamental algebraic concepts. Such concepts include linear functions, equations and inequalities, variable relationships, problem solving, radicals and radical expressions, exponential and logarithmic functions, rational expressions, matrices, and analytic geometry dealing with quadratic functions

PRE-AP ALGEBRA II - Rigorous
One credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Pre-AP Algebra 1 and Pre-AP Geometry.
Pre-AP Algebra II follows the objectives stated for Algebra II but is a more extensive and rigorous line of study. Higher-level thinking skills are required as students are expected to analyze problems and formulate an approach to their solutions. Students must be independent thinkers and be willing to go past “how” to determine “why”. Teacher recommendation and test scores are criteria for qualification.

APPLIED MATHEMATICS WITH COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
One Credit
Students will use mathematical skills and concepts to approach many dat-to-day situations in business and personal settings. Emphasis is placed on preparing students for transition from high school to college with regard to mathematics. Computer and calculator skills will enhance the learning process. A sampling of topics include: bank services, payroll, taxes, insurance, purchasing merchandise, markup and markdown, interest, consumer credit and mortgages, depreciation, financial statements, and business statistics. In addition to enhancing math and computer skills student will investigate protential careers and prepare for college by working on applications, scholarships, and resumes.

PRE-CALCULUS
One Credit (not weighted)
Prerequisite: Pre-AP Algebra II and Pre-AP Geometry.
Pre-Calculus includes the study of trigonometry and the use of graphing calculators. The course stresses the fundamental approach in presentation of topics, allows a rigorous development of mathematical concepts, and provides a review of high school mathematics courses.

AP CALCULUS - Rigorous
One credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Pre-AP Calculus or PAP Pre-Calculus
Calculus is an exciting subject, justly considered to be one of the greatest achievements of the human intellect. Part of the aim of this course is to train you to think logically. Calculus is fundamentally different from the mathematics that you have studied previously. Calculus is less static and more dynamic. It is concerned with change and motion; it deals with quantities that approach other quantities. By the time you finish this course, you will be able to use the ideas of calculus to decide where to sit in a movie theater, explain the shapes of cans, position a shortstop, and explain the formation and location of rainbows. . Students will be required to take the College Board exam in May.

UIL MATHEMATICS/CALCULATOR APPLICATIONS/NUMBER SENSE
One Credit (Local)
UIL class will prepare students to compete in UIL Math and Academic Tournaments. This class will challenge students to take their academic knowledge to a competitive level. Students will be required to compete in Saturday Academic Tournaments.

SCIENCE

TAKS SCIENCE REMEDIATION
One Credit (local)
TAKS Science is REQUIRED for students who fail 8th (field test-2005), 9th, 10th and/or 11th grade TAKS. This course serves as a second hour of Science for local credit to build Science skills. This course remediates skills for TAKS and Science, to assist students in being successful on TAKS.

ANATOMY AND PHYSIOLOGY
One Credit
Prerequisite: Biology and Chemistry (strong reading and math skills recommended)
This course offers both exploratory and advanced activities covering the structures and functions of the components of the human body. Instruction centers on the relationship of the systems of the human body to the physiological functions of the body, including structures, cell specialization, and gross anatomy.
NOTE: WILL NOT COUNT AS A REQUIRED SCIENCE COURSE, BUT WILL COUNT AS AN ELECTIVE.

INTEGRATED PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY
One Credit
Integrated Physics and Chemistry (IPC), students use scientific methods during investigations and make informed decisions using critical-thinking and scientific problem solving. This course integrates the disciplines of physics and chemistry in the following topics: motion, waves, energy transformations, properties of matter, changes in matter and solution chemistry.

BIOLOGY
One Credit
Biology is a way of learning about the natural world. Students learn how science has built a body of changing and increasing knowledge described by physical, mathematical, and conceptual models. Biology studies a variety of topics that include: structure and functions of cells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues, and organs, nucleic acids and genetics; taxonomy; metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems; and homeostasis.

PRE-AP BIOLOGY
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: IPC (with a semester average of 80 or above and teacher recommendation)
Pre-AP Biology is a preparatory course for Advanced Placement Biology or college Biology. Students learn how science has built a body of changing and increasing knowledge described by physical, mathematical, and conceptual models. Biology studies a variety of topics that include: structure and functions of cells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; taxonomy; metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems; and homeostasis.

CHEMISTRY
One Credit
Prerequisite: IPC, Biology, and Algebra I, and completion or concurrent enrollment in Geometry.
Chemistry is the study of the properties, composition, and structure of matter and of the energy involved. The course includes historical development, problem-solving, and laboratory experimentation. Chemistry is the foundation for all areas of medical science as well as many other branches of science and technology.

PRE-AP CHEMISTRY
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Pre-AP Algebra I (recommended average of 80 or above) and completion or concurrent enrollment in a second year of math for success in this course.
Pre-AP Chemistry offers students preparatory work for Advanced Placement Chemistry or college chemistry.

AP CHEMISTRY 2
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Pre-AP Algebra II, Pre-AP Biology, Pre-AP Chemistry (with a course average of 80 or above).
AP Chemistry offers college-level studies and advanced-level enrichment experiences involving chemical changes of matter. Students in the course will attain a depth of understanding of the fundamentals and reasonable competence in dealing with chemical problems.

AP PHYSICS
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Chemistry, Pre-AP Algebra 2 (with a course average of 80) or concurrently enrolled in Pre-AP Algebra 2.
Physics is the study of the interaction of matter and energy. The investigative approach is used and includes: problem-solving and laboratory investigations of such topics as force and motion, work, heat, sound, light, magnetism, and electricity. Physics provides a solid basis for college bound students who will major in science and engineering. Students in this course are required to prepare various projects.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
One Credit
Prerequisite: Algebra I, Biology and Chemistry.
Environmental Science emphasizes college level learning experiences in fundamental environmental concepts. Laboratory and field investigations stress scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them.

SOCIAL STUDIES

TAKS SOCIAL STUDIES REMEDIATION
One Credit (local)
TAKS Social Studies is REQUIRED for students who fail 8th, 9th, 10th and/or 11th grade Social Studies TAKS This course serves as a second hour of Social Studies for local credit to build Social Studies knowledge. This course remediates skills for TAKS and Social Studies, to assist students in being successful on TAKS.

WORLD GEOGRAPHY
One Credit
World Geography is a comprehensive survey of the World by regions. Each major region will be examined for its physical, political, economic and cultural composition and its impact on the world. Homework & study are required as this is the first time students have encountered world information on this scale.

PRE-AP WORLD GEOGRAPHY - Rigorous
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: 8th grade Social Studies (with a course average of 85 or above).
Pre-AP World Geography offers advanced level studies with enriched overviews of world cultures, their accomplishments, interactions with each other and the environment. The course emphasizes the interconnections of the environment and the human condition. Independent reading, research projects, and presentations along with current events and issues will supplement the core instruction.

WORLD HISTORY
One credit
World History is an overview of the history of mankind emphasizing the study of significant people, events and issues from the earliest times to the present.

PRE-AP WORLD HISTORY
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: World Geography (with a course average of 85 or above) or
PAP World Geography (with a course average of 80 or above).
Pre-AP World History offers an accelerated and enriched overview of history of humankind, emphasizes the study of significant people, events, and issues from early times to the present.

U.S. HISTORY
One credit
U.S. History is a study the history of the United States since Reconstruction to the present. The political, economic and social events and issues related to the years 1865 to the present. Students will examine, evaluate, analyze cause and effects and use critical thinking skills to interpret the history of the U.S. Events and issues studied will include the industrialization and urbanization of the U.S., major wars, domestic and foreign policies, and reform movements.

AP UNITED STATES HISTORY
One Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: Pre-AP World Geography and Pre-AP World History (with a course average of 85), and Pre-AP English II (with an average of 80 or above) or English II (with an average of 90 or above). This course has intensive and rigorous reading requirements.
AP United States History is designed to offer high school students learning experiences equivalent to college introductory U.S. History. The course provides both comprehensive review of U.S. History from the pre-colonial period to present and thorough preparation for taking the AP U.S. History examination. Independent reading is required. Students are required to take the College Board Exam in May.

U.S. GOVERNMENT
One-half Credit
American Government is a survey course delving into the workings of the U.S. Government. Various topics included are the Constitution, political parties, interest groups and the branches of the government. Prepares students as citizens and may lead to a career in law, politics or political science.

AP U.S. GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS
One-half Credit (weighted course)
Prerequisite: AP U.S. History, Pre-AP World History, Pre-AP World Geography (with a course average of 85 or above), AP English III (with a course average of 85 or above) and instructor approval
AP U.S. Government and Politics is designed for the advanced student who is both capable of being, and desires to be academically challenged. The AP level is taught at a faster pace and requires extensive outside study. The curriculum is designed to include all elements in the national AP Government course guide, and prepare students for the Government College Board Exam. Students are required to take the College Board Exam in May.

PSYCHOLOGY
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: Junior classification or above
Psychology focuses on the development of the individual and the personality. The study of psychology is based on a historical framework, stressing the role of the individual in society. The study of psychology also relies on effective collection and analysis of data. Students study topics such as theories of human development, personality, motivation, and learning. The student will be expected to understand and use basic principles of testing and measurement, to analyze evidence collected through various means of research, and to present the results of research orally and in writing.

ECONOMICS
One-half Credit
Economics focuses on the basic economic principles concerning production, consumption, and distribution of goods and services in the United States and a comparison with those in other countries around the world. Students examine the rights and responsibilities of consumers and businesses.

DUAL CREDIT ECONOMICS
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: AP English III (with a course average of 85) and Pre-AP Algebra II (with a course average of 85), enrollment at MCC. Instruction provided by MCC professors for High School And College Credit. Location: West High School Campus.

DUAL CREDIT GOVERNMENT
One-half Credit,
Prerequisite: Pre-AP US History (with a course average of 85), Pre-AP World History (with a course average of 85), Pre-AP World Geography (with a course average of 85 or above), AP English III (with a course average of 85 or above), enrollment at MCC. Instruction provided by MCC professors for High School And College Credit. Location: West High School Campus.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION, HEALTH AND ATHLETICS

ATHLETICS
One-half Credit (per semester)
Prerequisite: Coaching staff approval through observation of physical, mental, and emotional attributes.
First two credits count as state credit. All others count as local credit. Sports available: Football, Volleyball, Cross Country, Basketball, Powerlifting, Track, Softball, and Baseball, Golf, and Tennis.

HEALTH EDUCATION
One-half Credit
Health Includes instruction on nutrition, healthy life-styles and decisions.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION
One-half Credit (per semester)
First two credits count as state credit. Students must take Foundations of Personal Fitness plus two more half credits of Physical Education such as Team sports, Individual Sports, Weightlifting and Aerobics.

FOUNDATIONS OF PHYSICAL FITNESS
One-Half Credit
Serves as a prerequisite for all additional course offerings in physical education for which state credit is given. The basic purpose of this course is to motivate students to strive for lifetime personal fitness with an emphasis on the health-related components of physical fitness. The knowledge and skills taught in this course include teaching students about the process of becoming fit as well as achieving some degree of fitness within the class. The concept of wellness, or striving to reach optimal levels of health, is the cornerstone of this course and is exemplified by one of the course objectives—students designing their own personal fitness program.

FINE ARTS

ART I
One Credit
This is an introductory course that will focus on all of the elements of design and principles of art. The curriculum is aligned with the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) Objectives and with National Fine Arts Standards. Students will create designs for practical applications, learn art vocabulary, art history, create visual solutions to artistic problems, and also learn about career opportunities. Students will also work in the art mediums of design, drawing, painting, printmaking, and sculpture. Students will also have the opportunity to participate in local, state and national contests.

ART II
One Credit
Prerequisite: Art I
This course will focus on the Principles of Design, and students will create two-dimensional and three-dimensional art in response to visual criteria and solutions. Students will study Architecture, Careers in Art, Western and Non Western Art, and art vocabulary. There will be more of a focus on students creating individual portfolios and expressing artistic ideas and themes. More choice will be given to students on which art mediums to use to express their ideas visually. Mediums that students will work in will be drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics (hand-built), fiber art, jewelry, photography, filmmaking, and electronic media generated art.

ART III
One Credit
Prerequisite: Art II
This course will be similar to Art II with an emphasis on the development of an individual portfolio. Students will be solving visual problems, thinking imaginatively, considering the meaning of images and symbols, and designing ideas. Students will also consider consumer choices in designing ideas, and work on design and presentation skills. Students will be involved in the same art mediums as Art II, with the exception of ceramics. This class will do hand built and “thrown ” pottery as well. Students will select a period, style or movement that they are interested in to study and do a class presentation on. We will study the influence of various cultures on contemporary art and also look at career opportunities in art.

ART IV
One Credit
Prerequisite: Art III
Students will create themes for personal artworks. Students will demonstrate visual relationships and create an original body of artwork in preparation for presenting a portfolio. Students will work on justifying ideas and concepts in personal artworks, and begin working on singular works as well as a series of works in a variety of art mediums, same as Art III. Students will select an art career that interests them in order to evaluate it and present it to classmates. Students will study art history, and continue to work in art mediums that interest them individually.

THEATRE ARTS I
One Credit
Theatre Arts I provides opportunities for students to develop concepts about self, human relationships, and the environment using elements of drama and conventions of theatre. The student will interpret characters using the voice and body expressively, and will create dramatizations. The student will apply design, and theatre production concepts and skills. The student will relate theatre to history, society and culture. The student will respond to and evaluate theatre and theatrical performances.

TECHNICAL THEATRE I - III
One Credit
Prerequisite: Theatre Arts 1(courses must be taken in sequence)
Technical Theatre I-III will focus on behind-the-scenes of theatre. This group will provide the workers for stage and house management for all Drama Club productions, including the UIL One-Act Play. Students will be required to produce one product capable of being entered in the fall UIL Technical Design contest. [Costume/Set Design/Publicity] This group will be responsible for the care of the WHS auditorium, and any tools, props and costumes stored in the theatre. Class will be responsible for the creation and storing of original set pieces for various productions. Although not a requirement, students are encouraged to expand their appreciation of theatre through participation as an actor in a production.

THEATRE ARTS PRODUCTION I - IV
One Credit
Prerequisite: Teacher Approval (courses must be taken in sequence)
Theatre Production is an advanced study of acting and stagecraft techniques with emphasis on theatrical performances. This class will touch on all aspects of play production. Selected activities related to acting, directing, producing, stagecraft, and analysis will be included. A production of two major plays, as well as duet scene work will be part of the course work. Outside time is required.

BAND
One - Four Credits
The PRIDE OF WEST TROJAN BAND is one of the largest and most active organizations on campus. Representing both West High School and the community of West, the band participates in a wide variety of musical activities ranging from halftime shows to pep rallies to concerts. Student musicians are also afforded the opportunity to pursue creative expression through optional participation in solo and small ensemble contests, jazz ensemble, and many other musical outlets.
In the fall semester, the Trojan Band performs at all pep rallies, varsity football games, selected competitions, and local and community events. A fall highlight is the annual Holiday Concert, performed in December. Students may substitute a maximum of 1.5 credits earned during the fall semester(s) for the physical education graduation requirement, with the remaining band credits applying toward fine arts and/or elective graduation requirements.
During the spring semester the Trojan Band performs several concerts, ranging from the formal mid-winter “Pops” concert to the relaxed atmosphere of the outdoor concert in May, and at selected competitions and various local and community events.
Placement will be based upon director recommendation and approval. Attendance at all functions is required as a part of the graded curricula. Members of the PRIDE OF WEST TROJAN BAND are expected to exhibit high scholastic standards in all course work, and to be exemplary in their standards of citizenship and character. Band members are encouraged to participate in athletic, vocational and other school-related activities as a part of a well-balanced high school education.

BUSINESS/TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS

Note: BCIS I alone does not count for Tech-Prep/College Credit. You must combine it with BCIS II. You must have an 80 or above in order to receive articulated credit with MCC in all Tech Prep Classes.

BUSINESS COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS I (BCIS)
One Credit
Prerequisite: Keyboarding skills, Grade 10
Develops technology skills with applications to personal or business situations focusing on word processing, spreadsheets, databases, telecommunications, desktop publishing, presentation management, networking, operating systems, emerging technologies; develops intermediate-level skills. (Satisfies technology credit requirement for graduation.) Software: Windows XP, Microsoft Office 2003 (Word, Excel, Access, and PowerPoint), Paint, Keychamp

BUSINESS COMPUTER INFORMATION SYSTEMS II (BCIS)
One Credit
Prerequisite: BCIS I, Grades 11 - 12
Business Computer Information Systems II further develops advanced data base (Access), spreadsheet (Excel), Publisher and Photoshop.

BUSINESS IMAGE MANAGEMENT AND MULTIMEDIA (BIMM)
One Credit
Prerequisite: Keyboarding skills, BCIS I, Grades 11 - 12
Utilize the World Wide Web and the Internet to learn technology-related terms, concepts, and data input strategies. Students learn to make web pages using HTML in Notepad and commercially written web page software used in the workforce today. This course enables students to create their own web pages at home or as required in many future college courses. Professors assume that you know how to create your own web page, and with this class you will!! Software: Windows XP, Internet Explorer, Notepad, Macromedia Dreamweaver 8

ACCOUNTING I
One Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10 - 12
Do you plan on majoring in business in college? Are you unsure of your major? Then, accounting is the class for you. Learn valuable business thinking that will apply to your college studies. This is a tech prep class which means you earn college equivalency credit for taking the class. It is not a math or computer class. It is a new way of thinking and a profession that you can begin learning while still in high school. Accounting is so much a part of our business lives that much of its terminology has become a part of our everyday language. Students learn why Accounting has been called the “language of business”. Students also learn the details of the accounting cycle. It gives them an overall introduction into the accounting profession.

ACCOUNTING II
One Credit (May articulate for college credit with an 80 or above average)
Prerequisite: Accounting I
Available for students who take Accounting 1 during their sophomore or junior year. A continuation of Accounting 1 to a more advanced level.

APPLIED MATHEMATICS WITH COMPUTER APPLICATIONS (ACM)
One Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 12
Students will use mathematical skills and concepts to approach many day-to-day situations in business and personal settings. Emphasis is placed on preparing students for transition from high school to college with regard to mathematics. Computer and calculator skills will enhance the learning process. A sampling of topics include: bank services, payroll, taxes, insurance, purchasing merchandise, markup and markdown, interest, consumer credit and mortgages, depreciation, financial statements, and business statistics. In addition to enhancing math and computer skills, students will investigate potential careers and prepare for college by working on applications, scholarships, and resumes. Software: Windows XP, Excel 2003

COMPUTER MULTIMEDIA ANIMATION TECHNOLOGY (CMAT)
One Credit
Prerequisite: Keyboarding skills, BCIS I, Grades 11 - 12
The students will learn to create movie clips and animations using Flash 8. They will also learn to edit raster and vector graphics using Fireworks 8. Students will learn how to make full length animated video games and movies. Software: Macromedia Studio 8 (Fireworks 8, Flash 8)

KEYBOARDING
One-half Credit *Need Only Basis
Successful completion (keyboarding at 25 wpm) of a district-level proficiency test will be accepted as the equivalent for a prerequisite of keyboarding.
Keyboarding students will apply technical skills to address business applications of emerging technologies. Students will learn touch keyboarding skills.

WORD PROCESSING APPLICATIONS
One-half Credit *Need only basis
Prerequisite: Keyboarding or successful completion of the district-level proficiency test.
Word Processing Applications continues the development of keyboarding skills through intensive practice for both speed and accuracy, as well as the refinement of word processing skills. The course emphasizes increasing the rate of production and quality of the finished product. Keyboarding skills are developed through the production of business forms, manuscripts, and legal documents. Students master spell check, thesaurus, merge, global search, replace, block print, and column layout skills.

BUSINESS LAW
One Credit
Prerequisite: BCIS I, Grades 11 - 12
Students will study true situations that show how business and personal law impacts not only business, but the lives of young people and adults as well. It will help achieve an understanding of legal principles which students will use throughout their lives.

BUSINESS MANAGEMENT
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: BCIS I, Grades 11 - 12
Students will cover the basic business principles and management, which is needed by everyone who plans a career in business. Fundamentals related to economic, legal, and social topics are presented, along with information on organizing business, marketing products, finance, managing employees, and making business decisions.

UIL COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
One Credit (Local)
UIL class will prepare students to compete in UIL Computer Application Tournaments. This class will challenge students to take their academic knowledge to a competitive level. Students will be required to compete in Saturday Academic Tournaments.

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE (Home Economics)

APPAREL
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10-12
Apparel is a technical laboratory course that focuses on apparel from the perspectives of personal decision-making related to apparel, the apparel industry, and career preparation. Topics include managing the apparel dollar, apparel repair and alteration, and wardrobe planning, care, and maintenance. Quality apparel construction is addressed as it relates to consumer decision-making and career preparation for the apparel industry. Other content addresses technology applications related to apparel, career options, and management practices for assuming multiple family, community, and wage earner roles.

FOOD SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY – TECH PREP
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: Nutrition and Food Science, Grades 10-12
Food Science and Technology is a technical laboratory course that provides foundational training in the area of food science and technology. Content addresses food science principles; nutrition and wellness; food technology; world food supply, managing multiple family, community, and wage-earner roles; and career options in nutrition, food science, and food technology. Instructional topics include diet-related disorders, diets appropriate to the life cycle and other factors, therapeutic diets, chemical and physical changes that affect food product quality, technologies used in food processing and product development, food safety and sanitation standards, market research, legal issues, and food policies. Laboratory activities utilizing research methods related to current issues in food science, technology, and nutrition are included.

INDIVIDUAL AND FAMILY LIFE
One-half Credit (Limited Enrollment)
Individual And Family Life is a course designed to focus on personal development, interpersonal relationships, effective individual and family functioning, and career preparation all within a changing society. This course addresses personal identity, responsibilities of living as an independent adult relationship development outside the family, and factors related to marital success. Special attention is focused on understanding the roles, responsibilities, and impact of the family on individuals and society, promoting and strengthening the family unit, the impact of technology on career options and family life, and managing multiple family, community, and wage-earner roles.

NUTRITION & FOOD SCIENCE
One-half Credit (Limited Enrollment)
Nutrition & Food Science is a technical laboratory course concentrates on nutrition, food choices, and food management skills for individuals and the family throughout the life cycle. Instruction addresses nutritional and food science from the perspective of food habits and wellness, menu planning, special dietary needs, food costs and budgeting, consumer food-buying strategies, food safety and sanitation procedures, food labeling, and food handling, storage, and preparation practices. Meal etiquette, career options, and techniques for managing multiple family, community, and wage-earner roles are part of the content. The impact of technology on food choices, preparation, and nutritional quality is addressed. Nutrition And Food Science is the foundation for various career pathways, such as dietitian, food technologist, chef, food pathways, such as dietitian, food technologist, chef, food service supervisor, restaurant manager, baker, caterer, and home economist.

PERSONAL & FAMILY DEVELOPMENT
One Credit (Limited Enrollment)
Personal & Family Development is a comprehensive laboratory course is designed to address a broad range of knowledge and skills related to personal development and management, promotion of strong families, and preparation for adult roles. Content includes a focus on interpersonal skills, decision-making, promotion of family strengths and well being, developing positive relationships with peers, child development and care, and clothing construction, selection, and maintenance. Other studies address nutrition and dietary practices, and management of family housing needs. Influences of societal and technological changes, career options, and the management of multiple family, community, and wage earner roles are included. Personal & Family Development is the foundation for various career pathways, such as food service, credit counselor, fashion store buyer or coordinator, nursery school teacher or aide, and home furnishing advisor

PREPARATION FOR PARENTING
One-half Credit (First Semester- May articulate for college credit)
Preparing For Parenting is a course designed to provide individuals with opportunities to develop knowledge and skills in preparation to function effectively in the role of parent or caregiver. Content stresses considerations influencing the decision to parent, parental responsibilities, child guidance techniques, parents as positive role models, parents as their children’s first teachers, and parenting practices which promote a child’s development, health, safety, and well-being. Managing family crisis, managing multiple roles of family members throughout the life cycle, managing media and technology to promote a positive influence on children, and career preparation are additional topics.

TEXTILES & APPAREL DESIGN
One-half Credit
Textiles & Apparel Design is a course which addresses the textiles and apparel industries, textile design and production, apparel design and production, apparel design practices and influences, and career preparation. Focus on cultural, societal, and demographic influences on the design industry will highlight the study of fibers, fabrics, product marking techniques, and analysis of fashion trends.

AGRICULTURE

CAREER PREPARATION I, II (WORK PROGRAM)
3 Credits
Prerequisites: Application & interview by teacher coordinator, Grades 11-12, at least 16 and a junior, employed 15 hours per week, allow 2 blocks per day – one for class, one for work
This course is for students that want to learn while doing. They are college and vocational preparatory courses for those students wanting to become employed in the agricultural industry. Areas of study include Agribusiness, Environmental and Natural Resources, Horticulture, Leadership Development, Mechanized Agriculture, Value-Added and Food Processing, Food and Fiber Production, and other areas of the agricultural industry. Students will report to class for one period per day and then to an approved training station for the other period. To earn three (3) Credits: 36 weeks in class +15 hours work per week, co-op or work-based component. 40% of student grade is from employer.

AGRICULTURAL METAL FABRICATION
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10-12
Agricultural Metal Fabrication is a course that will teach the basics of hot-metal work using arc welders and the oxyacetylene torch. You will learn safety practices, construction principles, and metallurgy techniques.

AGRICULTURAL STRUCTURES
One-half credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10-12
Agricultural Structures is a course where you will learn what facilities are needed or useful on the farm or ranch and how to plan and build them. Concentration will be on safe working practices and construction techniques.

Note: Agriculture Metal Fabrications and Agricultural Structures must be satisfactorily completed in order for Tech Prep credit to be given.

AGRICULTURE MECHANICS
One Credit
Prerequisite: Grade 11-12
Agriculture Mechanics is a course designed to learn mechanical skills in tractor mechanics, hydraulic, small engines, carpentry, welding, electrical wiring, electric motors, hot and cold metal work, welding, cutting, concrete, and plumbing skills.

AGRICULTURE POWER TECHNOLOGY
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: Grades 10-12
Agriculture Power Technology is a course designed to learn mechanized agricultural systems like tractor mechanics or irrigation systems. Students will learn proper shop safety, equipment and procedures, how to operate and maintain small engines. They will also learn to operate and maintain agricultural machines and equipment. Areas will include internal combustion power, electrical power sources, and hydraulic power.

ANIMAL SCIENCE
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grade 10-12
Animal Science will study livestock breeds, livestock judging, livestock behavior, anatomy and physiology of farm animals, feeding and nutrition, diseases, and parasites.

APPLIED AGRISCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
One-half Credit
Applied Agriscience is a course designed to follow Introduction to Agriculture. Students will learn about crops, breeds of livestock, and shop safety. Students will also work in the shop and will be required to provided materials for their own shop projects.

FOOD TECHNOLOGY
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10-12
Food Technology is a course concerning world food production: the processing, preparing, and packaging of foods; government regulations regarding foods; exploring occupational opportunities; and leadership development.

HOME MAINTENANCE AND IMPROVEMENT
One-half credit
Prerequisite: none, Grade 10-12
Home Maintenance and Improvement is a course designed to teach techniques a homeowner needs to know to keep his/her house in good repair. You will study carpentry, electrical wiring, plumbing, painting, roofing, and some hot-metal work.

HORTICULTURAL PLANT PRODUCTION
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10-12
Horticultural Plant Production is a course that prepares students to produce greenhouse/nursery plants and to maintain plant growth and propagation structures.

INTRODUCTION TO AGRICULTURE MECHANICS
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10-12
Introduction to Agriculture Mechanics is a course designed to study carpentry, metal work, electrical motors, and internal combustion engines.

INTRODUCTION TO WORLD AGRICULTURE SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY
One-half Credit
Introduction to World Agriculture is a basic course designed to introduce beginning students in Agricultural Science to employability characteristics of a successful worker, cultural diversity, historical, current, and future significance of the Agricultural industry, Life Skills for effective leadership, food and fiber systems, basic animal and plant science and safe application of basic agricultural mechanics. This course should be taken before Applied Agriscience & Technology.

LANDSCAPE DESIGN, CONSTRUCTION, AND MAINTENANCE
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10-12
Landscaping is a course designed to prepare students to design, construct, and maintain planted areas and devices for the beautification of home grounds and other areas of human habitation and recreation. Some of the instruction will require manual labor on the part of the student.

PLANT & ANIMAL PRODUCTION
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10-12
Plant & Animal Production students will study livestock and crops raised to be food for livestock. Students will describe plant and animal anatomy and physiology.

WILDLIFE & RECREATION MANAGEMENT
One-half Credit
Prerequisite: none, Grades 10-12
Wildlife & Recreation Management is a course designed to study wildlife, especially game animals, and their habitat. Students will learn hunting and fishing etiquette, hunting and boating safety, and the outdoor recreation industry. Students will complete the Texas Hunter Safety Course.