STUDENT COURSE DESCRIPTION GUIDE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Contents
NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT..........................................................................................4
REGISTRATION INFORMATION.................................................................................................. 4
WOODHAVEN HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS.............................................. 5
GRADUATION REQUIREMENT OVERVIEW............................................................................... 5
ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM........................................................................................ 7
DUAL ENROLLMENT....................................................................................................................8
TESTING-OUT.............................................................................................................................. 9
PERSONAL CURRICULUM........................................................................................................10
ACADEMIC RECOGNITION........................................................................................................11
AWARDS/HONORS PROGRAM/VALEDICTORIAN/ SENIOR SCHOLARS...............................11
GRADES AND REPORT CARDS............................................................................................... 13
MAKING UP LOST CREDITS..................................................................................................... 13
STATE SANCTIONED REQUIREMENTS................................................................................... 14
ON-LINE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES.................................................................................... 14
EARLY MIDDLE COLLEGE.........................................................................................................14
Program Overview:................................................................................................................ 14
The goals of the Early/Middle College program are:............................................................. 14
Why Early/Middle College:.....................................................................................................15
Considerations for Students and Parents..............................................................................15
Woodhaven-Brownstown School District and Wayne County Community College Early/
Middle College Selection Process......................................................................................... 16
MATHEMATICS-RELATED COURSES FOR SENIOR YEAR.....................................................17
VISUAL, PERFORMING, AND APPLIED ARTS (VPAA)............................................................ 18
COURSE OFFERINGS............................................................................................................... 19
English...................................................................................................................................19
World Language.................................................................................................................... 26
Theater Production................................................................................................................ 29
Social Studies........................................................................................................................30
Mathematics.......................................................................................................................... 35
Science..................................................................................................................................39
Computers............................................................................................................................. 45
Business................................................................................................................................ 46
Family and Consumer Science..............................................................................................49
Art.......................................................................................................................................... 50
Industrial Art...........................................................................................................................53
Music..................................................................................................................................... 55
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Physical Education................................................................................................................ 57
Career and Technology..........................................................................................................60
Special Education..................................................................................................................64
NCAA Eligibility............................................................................................................................70
POST-SECONDARY PLANNING................................................................................................70
EDUCATIONAL DEVELOPMENT PLANS (EDPs)......................................................................71
CAREER PATHWAYS................................................................................................................. 71
What are the 6 Career Pathways?.........................................................................................72
Exploring Career Pathways................................................................................................... 73
Arts and Communications......................................................................................................73
Business, Management, Marketing, and Technology............................................................ 74
Engineering/Manufacturing and Industrial Technology..........................................................75
Health Sciences.....................................................................................................................75
Human Services.................................................................................................................... 77
Natural Resources and Agriscience...................................................................................... 78
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NON-DISCRIMINATION STATEMENT
In compliance with Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, Title IX of the Education
Amendments of 1972, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, the Age Discrimination
Act of 1975, the Americans with Disability Act of 1990, and the Elliott-Larsen Civil Rights Act
of 1977, it is the policy of the Woodhaven-Brownstown School District that no person shall
on the basis of race, color, religion, national origin or ancestry, gender, age, disability, height,
weight, or marital status be excluded from participation in, be denied the benefits of, or be
subjected to discrimination during any program, activity, service or in employment. For
information, contact the:
Office of the Superintendent
24821 Hall Road
Woodhaven, MI 48183
734-783-3300
REGISTRATION INFORMATION
1. Before entering high school, students should choose a career pathway and a post-
secondary education goal (See section “Career Planning”)
2. Students working with parents should design a four-year plan of study (Educational
Development Plan) to be taken during high school. This should include all courses to
meet graduation requirements, career pathway guidelines, and special interests and needs.
3. Before choosing courses, students should carefully read the section entitled “Course
Offerings.” Questions about the courses should be addressed to the counselors or
teachers.
4. All students will be required to enroll in six classes (full schedule) for two semesters each
year.
5. Courses described in this booklet are offered based upon sufficient student demand and
teacher availability as determined by administration.
6. All students may enroll in a college course at a nearby college each semester if they meet
the qualifications and conditions. (Refer to “Dual Enrollment”)
7. Students interested in special programs including dual enrollment, online learning, early
middle college, and personal curriculum should contact their counselor.
8. Students should select their classes carefully. They are expected to remain in their classes
until completion.
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WOODHAVEN HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION
REQUIREMENTS
Woodhaven High School can offer you a great variety of courses and subjects, which can provide
for a wide range of career interests and future plans. To qualify for a high school diploma, certain
course and credit requirements must be met. All required courses and credit requirements are
either mandated by state law or are established and adopted by the Woodhaven Board of
Education and are offered with the intent to help you prepare for your individual future.
Under the semester scheduling model, students are offered the opportunity to build daily
schedules of six (6) classes per semester. Each class that is successfully completed will continue
to be worth one-half (.50) credit. Students will be capable of taking 12 classes per year and
earning 6 credits each year. This will result in students having potential access to 48 class
selections over a four-year period.
Semester Credits
Total Possible
Required for Graduation
24
24
22
Senior Status
Junior Status
Sophomore Status
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10
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GRADUATION REQUIREMENT OVERVIEW
English
4 years
● English 9
● English 10
● English 11
● English 12
Mathematics
4 years
● Algebra 1
● Geometry
● Algebra 2
● Senior Math or Math related credit
must be earned.
Science
3 years
● Physical Science
● Biology
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● Chemistry or Physics
Social Studies
3 years
● World History
● Economics and Government
● US History
PE/Health
● 1/2 credit Physical Education
● 1/2 credit Health
World Language
2 years
● 2 credits
● ½ credit can be earned through
Personal Finance (starting with the
class of 2028)
Personal Finance
● ½ credit Starting with the class of
2028
Visual Performing, Applied Arts
● 1 year
● Courses meeting this requirement are
listed in the VPAA course lists.
Online Learning Experience
● This experience will be required for all
Woodhaven High School students
during their Senior year English
experience.
Only those who have successfully completed all requirements for graduation will be permitted to
participate in the graduation ceremony. However, a student may be denied participation in the
Graduation Ceremony when personal conduct warrants. No student who has completed the
requirements for graduation shall be denied a diploma as a disciplinary action.
ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM
Challenging Yourself with AP Courses: A Message for Students and Families
At Woodhaven High School, we encourage students to challenge themselves academically and
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embrace opportunities that prepare them for future success. Enrolling in an AP course is not just
about earning college credit—it’s about developing resilience, critical thinking, and the skills
needed for college and beyond.
● We understand that AP courses can seem intimidating, but they are designed to be
rigorous yet rewarding. If you are considering an AP class, know that:
● It’s a Commitment: AP courses require dedication and effort, but they also offer
significant benefits, including grade weighting, stronger college applications, and
enhanced learning experiences.
● You Are Not Alone: Support is available! AP teachers are committed to helping students
succeed, and there are resources such as study groups, tutoring, and teacher office hours
to assist along the way.
● It’s About Growth, Not Perfection: Colleges value students who take on challenges, and
they recognize the difference between a rigorous course and an easier path. The
experience gained from an AP class can be more valuable than a perfect GPA.
● There Are Options: We encourage students to carefully select their AP courses to ensure
they align with their interests and goals. If, after genuine effort, a student finds that an AP
course is not the right fit, we will have options available at the semester break to adjust
schedules as needed.
We encourage students to believe in their ability to rise to the challenge, knowing that they will
have support every step of the way. If you have any concerns, we’re here to guide you in making
the best decision for your academic journey.
The Advanced Placement Program provides students with the opportunity to pursue college-
level studies while still in high school. Advanced Placement Examinations are offered
throughout the world each May. They are administered at participating schools. Woodhaven
High School is a test center. Over 90% of the nation’s colleges give credit and/or advanced
placement to students whose advanced placement examination grades are considered
acceptable. Many colleges grant as much as a full year’s credit (sophomore standing), to
students presenting qualifying grades in enough AP examinations. This saves the students both
time and money for courses taken while in high school. AP courses are weighted on a 4.50
point basis instead of our standard 4.00 system.
The AP program available at Woodhaven High School is extensive. Therefore, it is important for
capable students to plan their four-year curriculum carefully. Students should distribute their
AP courses and examinations throughout their time in high school.
1. AP 2-D Art and Design
10th, 11th, 12th
2. AP American History
11th, 12th
3. AP Biology
11th, 12th
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4. AP Business with Personal Finance
10th, 11th, 12th
5. AP Calculus AB and BC
12th
6. AP Chemistry
11th, 12th
7. AP Computers
11th, 12th
8. AP English Language
11th
9. AP English Literature
12th
10.AP Environmental Science
10th, 11th, 12th
11.AP Government
10th
12.AP Macro Economics 2023– 2024
10th, 11th, 12th
13.AP Micro Economics 2024– 2025
10th, 11th, 12th
14.AP Music Theory
11th, 12th
15.AP Physics
11th, 12th
16.AP Precalculus
11th, 12th
17.AP Psychology
10th, 11th, 12th
18.AP Seminar
10th
19.AP Spanish
12th
20.AP Statistics
10th, 11th, 12th
21.AP European History
10th, 11th, 12th
22.AP World History
9th
● Students are not allowed to drop an AP class.
● 9th grade students wanting to take an AP class must have and maintain at least a 3.75
overall GPA. 10th - 12th grade must have and maintain at least a 3.0 overall GPA.
● Students are strongly encouraged to take the Advanced Placement Test.
DUAL ENROLLMENT
Woodhaven High School permits eligible sophomores, juniors or seniors to enroll and attend
classes at a local college or university and use those credits earned at the college or university
to meet the requirements for high school completion and graduation. In order to be eligible, a
students must have taken either the PLAN, PSAT, MME, or ACT test with qualifying scores. A
a copy of the letter explaining Dual Enrollment and test information may be found here. See your
counselor for details.
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TESTING-OUT
1. We will have 3 testing out dates each school year. One will take place in late August
when teachers return to work. The other two will take place during the final exam
windows in January and June.
2. It will be the student’s responsibility to notify counseling if they want to test out of a
class. They will need to do so by June 6th for the August test date, September 13th for
the 1st semester test date, and by Feb 13th for the 2nd semester test date.
3. Students who are testing out will be provided with the textbook and the syllabus for the
test-out class. The book number will be entered into the fine list until the book is
returned. Students will have approximately one semester or one summer to study and
prepare with those materials.
4. Students can test out of any class, not just core classes. Students can attempt to test out of
classes they have not taken or a class they have previously failed.
5. If the student earns a 79% or better on the final, they will earn credit for the class, and a
G will be posted onto their transcript indicating earned credit.
6. Students must fill out the sheet below and turn into their counselor by the due date.
_ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _ _
Testing-Out Application Date: ____________________
Name: ___________________________ Phone Number: _________________ Grade: ______
Subject to test out of/Book Name: _________________________________Book#: ________
Test Out (Circle One): Semester 1
Semester 2
Summer
Note: Book will be entered into fine list until it is returned. If it is not returned, you will be
charged the full price of the book. Students must receive a 79% or higher to test out of the
class and a G grade will be earned on the transcript.
Parent Signature: ______________________________________________________________
Student Signature: _____________________________________________________________
Counselor Signature: ___________________________________________________________
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PERSONAL CURRICULUM
The Personal Curriculum is an option that any student or family can explore as a way to modify
certain graduation requirements and earn a diploma. The purpose of secondary education is to
prepare students for life after high school. Any modification to a student’s graduation
requirements need to be consistent with this purpose. The high school diploma is
documentation that the student has met the expectations and possesses the knowledge and
skills necessary for postsecondary success. Students who are not pursuing a diploma or
students who are unable to meet modified MMC requirements do not need a personal
curriculum. Any student or parent interested in a personal curriculum will need to schedule an
appointment with Counseling.
In April 2006, Public Acts 123 & 124 were passed and beginning with the class of 2011, and
they specified the minimum required credits to graduate from a Michigan public high school.
These required credits are known as the Michigan Merit Curriculum. Public Act 141 allows
modifications to these credits. Modifications of Michigan Merit Curriculum are limited to the
following four options:
Available To All Students
A student who wishes to complete additional credit, beyond the number that is
already required, in English language arts, mathematics, science or language other
than English, by modifying a credit from Social Studies, Health & Physical
Education, or Visual, Performing & Applied Arts. Modification to Social Studies is
allowed only after completing 4 credits of Social Studies which included Civics.
English Language Arts & Science credit requirements are not subject to modification
under this subsection of personal curriculum.
Available To All Students
A student, after successfully completing (without necessarily having attained a
passing grade in) Algebra I and 1 Credit (Term A) of Geometry as stipulated in the
Michigan merit Curriculum, wishes to modify the math requirement must complete
one of the following:
1. Successful completion of 7 math or math-related credits, including 2 Algebra, 2 Geometry
and 1 Algebra II.
2. Complete a two Career & Technical education curriculum, which includes 1
credit of Algebra II content.
A student must successfully complete at least one mathematics term during his or
her final year of high school.
Available To Students with an IEP
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A student with a disability who needs to modify any of the credit requirements.
The modification, which is necessary because of the pupil’s disability, is to be
consistent with both the pupil’s educational development plan and their
individualized education program (IEP). Their IEP will identify the appropriate course
of courses of study and the support, accommodations, and modifications necessary
to allow the pupil to progress in the curricular requirements.
Available To Transfer Students with 2 Years of HS Credit
A student who has transferred from out of state, home school, or non-public
school with two years of high school credit. Their Personal Curriculum plan must
include a civics credit, and math credit in their final year of high school. If the
student is enrolled in a Michigan public high school for more than one full year, the
final year of math must be the equivalent of Algebra I or a math course normally
taken after completing Algebra I.
ACADEMIC RECOGNITION
Woodhaven High School will recognize students with a cumulative GPA of 3.5 or higher. The
3.5 GPA is the established GPA required to receive Cum Laude status during commencements.
The sophomores that have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 will receive an Academic Varsity Letter.
The juniors that have a cumulative GPA of 3.5 will also receive the same Academic Varsity
Letter. New students will be eligible after attending for a school year. If a student has already
earned the letter they will then receive an Academic Pin. During the first year of the Academic
Recognition “Varsity Letter”, juniors that have maintained the cumulative GPA of 3.5 during
both sophomore year and junior year will receive both Academic Letter and Pin. The students
will be recognized for their accomplishment during the start of the following school year.
AWARDS/HONORS PROGRAM/VALEDICTORIAN/
SENIOR SCHOLARS
● Students who have demonstrated superior academic performance, service to their school and
community, or outstanding citizenship are honored at this program. Winners of scholarships
and certificates are also announced.
● Procedures have been established for the selection of Valedictorian, Salutatorian, and Honor
Students.
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● The Board of Education has authorized the use of a class ranking system for grades 9 - 12
and an honor roll for all grades. The system to be used is detailed below. After their junior
year the formula given below will be used to calculate class rank. The final class rank will be
calculated after the first semester in their senior year.
o The final average will be used in all subjects in which units of credit are given to
calculate an
o average. This ranking is requested by colleges, is used to determine the eligibility
for
o membership in the National Honor Society, and is used for certain senior honors.
1. The rank of the student who immediately follows a tied position will be determined by
the number of students preceding him/her and not by the rank of the person preceding
him/her.
2. In recognition of the heavier burden of advanced work, grade point averages shall be
weighed by awarding (.5) extra units for unusually difficult courses as approved by the
Superintendent.
3. Woodhaven High School will use a formula for selecting students for top academic
honors. This formula is a point system that consists of 50% grade point average and
4. 50% SAT score and is calculated as follows:
a. (GPA x 400) + (SAT) =
b. All subjects will be used in computing grade point average and class ranking.
c. Final class rank will be determined after the completion of the first semester in the
senior year of high school work at Woodhaven High School.
d. Foreign exchange students will not be considered eligible for academic honors.
e. To be eligible for any Academic honor status, a student must be enrolled at
Woodhaven High School prior to and continuously following the tenth school day
of the student’s senior year.
f. The Valedictorian will be the student with the most total points.
g. The Salutatorian will be the student with the second highest total points.
h. In case of a tie for Valedictorian, Co-Valedictorian will be honored.
i. In case of a tie for Salutatorian, Co-Salutatorian will be honored.
j. The following will be used for selecting students for Honor Students:
i.
Summa Cum Laude GPA
3.9 or above
ii.
Magna Cum Laude GPA
3.7 and above; less than 3.9
iii.
Cum Laude GPA
3.5 and above; less than 3.7
iv.
Honor Roll GPA
3.0 and above; less than 3.5
k. Senior Scholars SAT (GPA x 400) + SAT (Totaling 2730 points and above)
l. Students achieving the status of Senior Scholar, Summa Cum Laude and Magna
Cum Laude will receive invitations to Honors night.
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m. The highest composite SAT score will be used in the calculation and must be
reported to the counseling office before the end of the first semester of the
student’s senior year.
n. Advanced Placement Classes will be graded on a 4.5 scale.
o. EMC courses will be graded on a 4.0 scale.
p. Dual Enrollment courses do not count towards GPA.
q. Early Middle College courses count towards GPA, Class Rank for EMC students
are calculated after 1st semester senior year.
In the event of a tie for valedictorian the local news will only allow us to nominate one student.
In this event WHS Administration will look at academic rigor, extracurricular activities,
community service, and any other aspects of the students involved to select one of the
valedictorians for the media.
GRADES AND REPORT CARDS
An interim grade report is issued near the middle of each semester. A final grade report is issued
at the end of each semester. The final grade is based upon the final exam and total performance
during the semester. Report cards can be viewed on the Internet via Parent Portal. Letter grades
carry the following values for the purpose of calculating a student grade point average.
Standard values: A =4.00 A- =3.67 B+ =3.33 B =3.00 B- =2.67
C+=2.33 C =2.00 C- =1.67 D+ =1.33 D =1.00 D- =0.67 E =0
AP values: A =4.500 A- =4.170 B+ =3.830 B =3.500 B- =3.170 C+ =2.830
C = 2.500 C- =2.170 D+ =1.830 D= 1.500 D- = 1.170 E =0
MAKING UP LOST CREDITS
Summer school and after school credit recovery information is available in the counseling office.
Credits can only satisfy course requirements if the student has failed a core course. All courses
must be taken through Woodhaven High School unless prior approval is obtained.
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STATE SANCTIONED REQUIREMENTS
In addition to academic graduation requirements listed, all students must participate in any and
all SAT/WorkKeys testing or their state sanctioned alternatives, to be eligible for graduation.
ON-LINE LEARNING OPPORTUNITIES
The State of Michigan School Aid Act has launched the choice for parents to request that their
child(ren), in grades 5-12, be enrolled in online courses in place of a currently scheduled course.
The Woodhaven-Brownstown School District (WBSD) supports on-line learning, and as a
District, we pride ourselves on forward movement on innovative uses of technology to support
learning. However, we encourage parents to consider if a 100 percent on-line course is ideal for
their child given the fact that they will be forfeiting face-to-face teacher classroom instruction
and support. Contact your counselor for additional information.
EARLY MIDDLE COLLEGE
Wayne County Community College Early/Middle College Information
Program Overview:
The Early/Middle College Partnership between Woodhaven-Brownstown School District
(WBSD) and Wayne County Community College District (WCCCD) was created to give
students an opportunity to pursue an associate degree while still in high school. Students will
take a blend of high school and college courses during their Sophomore through “13th” year In
tenth grade, students will take WHS Classes and participate in courses taught by WCCCD staff
at WHS. During the 11th and 12th grade years, students will take classes both at the high school
and on campus. During the 13th year, all courses will be taken on WCCCD campus. College
tuition and books will be paid by the WBSD, providing a substantial savings for parents and
students.
The goals of the Early/Middle College program are:
● Increase the number of students enrolling in college
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● Provide students an opportunity to engage in the college experience in a supportive
setting
● Reduce the financial burden on families
● Expand the traditional view of high school
Why Early/Middle College:
● Students begin college early with supports that help them succeed while still meeting the
requirements of the Michigan Merit Curriculum required for a Michigan high school
diploma.
● Provide free tuition, books, fees, and supplies to WBSD eligible students
● Students are on a faster pace to earn associate and/or bachelor’s degrees by earning two
years of transferable credit
● Students will likely need to spend only two years at their own expense to earn a
bachelor’s degree
● Students transition to college gradually
Considerations for Students and Parents
● Early/Middle College students are committed to a 13th year. Students do not receive their
high school diploma until the end of year 13, but are allowed to participate in High
School Commencement and associated Senior year activities and participate in College
Commencement after Grade 13.
● Students must follow both the college class schedule and calendar for their college
courses AND the WBSD calendar for WBSD courses. There will be different start/end
dates for classes and may have different vacation schedules.
● During 11th, 12th, and 13th year, students will take classes at WCCCD Downriver
campus that will meet in the evenings, so extracurricular activities offered by WBSD may
be impacted by the college course schedule.
● College classes taken by WBSD students may be open to students of all ages when taken
on the WCCCD campus.
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Woodhaven-Brownstown School District and Wayne County
Community College Early/ Middle College Selection Process
1. Complete a WBSD Early/Middle College Application including Parent Signature Form
and Recommendation Forms. Applications can be picked up at the PHMS counseling
office.
2. Turn in WBSD Early/Middle College Application, Parent Signature Form, and
Recommendation Forms to the PHMS counseling office by April 16th, 2024
3. Application reviewed by committee along with transcript, college assessment data (PSAT
9), attendance, and discipline records. Following the school screening, qualified
candidates will be notified of their acceptance status.
4. Accepted students will be invited to the WWEMC orientation meeting with WBSD and
WCCCD representatives on April 30th, 2024. ( Details in invitation letter). The formal
college application will be completed at this meeting.
5. Students will meet with WWEMC personnel and advisors to develop an individualized
plan of work.
6. Students take common college courses at WHS through 11th grade.
7. Beginning in 12th grade, students can take courses under the guidance of the WCCCD
advisor to obtain a relevant associate degree or certificate pursuant to the student's goals.
8. WBSD will work with the WCCCD advisor to schedule courses that also meet
requirements of the Michigan Merit Curriculum for high school diploma attainment.
9. Applications for the 2024-25 school year must be submitted by April 16th , 2024.
10.For more information, please contact WBSD Supervisor of Curriculum Phil Short
shortp@wbsdweb.com 734-783-3300 ext. 1072 or visit our website.
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MATHEMATICS-RELATED COURSES FOR
SENIOR YEAR
Accounting
Forensic Science
Algebra 2
Graphics 1 & 2
Analytical Chemistry
Intro to Coding
AP Business with Personal Finance
Physical Science
AP Calculus
LRC Transitions
AP Computers
Marketing 1 & 2
AP Macro Economics
Physics
AP Micro Economics
Personal Finance
AP Physics
Play Production & Adv. Play Production
AP Precalculus
Precalculus
AP Psychology
School Store
AP Statistics
Sports Science
Architectural Drafting
Spreadsheets
CAD 1 & 2
Statistics
Chemistry
Stagecraft
Dental 1 & 2
Web Design
Design and Build CAD/CAM
Welding 1 & 2
Economics
Woodshop 1 & 2
Entrepreneurship
Approved CTE classes
Foods for Today
Robotic Engineering Science I and II
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VISUAL, PERFORMING, AND APPLIED ARTS
(VPAA)
Acting/Advanced Acting
AP 2-D Art and Design
Approved CTE classes
Architectural Drafting
Bella Voce
Broadcasting
Broadcasting
CAD 1 & 2
Ceramics
Chamber Ensemble
Concert Winds
Dental 1 & 2
Elora
Entrepreneurship
Foods for Today
Graphics 1 & 2
Graphics by Design
Intro to Theatre
Jazz Band
Marketing 1 & 2
Newspaper
Painting
Personal Finance
Play Pro / Adv. Play Pro
Public Speaking and Debate
School Store
Sports Science
Stagecraft
Symphonic Band
Visual Arts
Warrior Chorus
Welding 1 & 2
Woodshop 1 & 2
Yearbook
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COURSE OFFERINGS
English
The WHS curriculum requires four consecutive credits of English Language Arts. If a student
fails to earn credit in a course, they will be scheduled to retake the course concurrently with the
next course in the series. For example: If a student does not earn credit in Freshman English the
following year they will be scheduled in both Freshman and Sophomore English.
Freshman English
1160A, B
2 Semesters
1 Credit
9
Description:
Freshman English is designed to give students a good foundation in reading, writing, speaking,
listening and literature. This course will allow students to develop, refine, and extend their skills
in areas necessary for continued progress and achievement in secondary level English courses.
Sophomore English
1170A, B
2 Semesters
1 Credit
10
Description:
Sophomore English is divided into four thematic units covering fiction, non-fiction, short stories,
speeches, grammar, usage, mechanics, and argumentative essay writing.
Junior English
1180A, B
2 Semesters
1 Credit
11
Description:
The course is a survey of American Literature from 1800 to the present. Each semester consists
of two anchor novel units with various supplemental readings and three writing units focusing on
argumentative and analytical writing.
Test-Taking Strategies
1189A
1 Semester
½ Credit
11
Description:
Test-Taking Strategies is a semester course offered to juniors. The course is set up with two
rotations including reading/ writing, and mathematics test-taking strategies. Students will take
three practice college-readiness exams, one at the beginning of the rotation, one at the middle of
the rotation, and one at the end of the rotation. Student scores from the PSAT and SAT practice
tests will provide baseline data for students entering each rotation and the practice tests will
measure the growth of understanding of the strategies. Students will show growth in the use of
test-taking strategies, not the mastery of reading, writing and mathematics using existing content
knowledge and the aforementioned strategies.
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Senior English
1190A, B
2 Semesters
1 Credit
12
Description:
The course is divided into four thematic units covering fiction, non-fiction, short stories,
speeches, grammar, usage, mechanics, and argumentative essay writing.
Creative Writing 1129A
1 Semester
½ Credit
9, 10, 11, 12
Description:
This course will introduce students to the process and techniques used in creative writing.
Students will review, analyze, and experiment with various types of creative writing, including
the writing of fiction and poetry through the exposure to examples and their own creations. Class
writing assignments may include, but may not be limited to: daily journaling, grammar and
editing reviews, peer editing, reflective writing, types of poetry, short stories, digital storytelling,
a children’s book, screenplay, a comic book, and participation with a class blog.
Prerequisites: Previous English class with a “C” or higher.
Young Adult
Literature*
1130A
1 Semester
½ Credit
9, 10, 11, 12
Description:
Young Adult Literature focuses on engaging novels that address the teenage and young adult
perspective in life. An important part of this class revolves around discussion dealing with
common issues facing this age group, as well as how the characters react to these diverse
situations. Collaboration in small groups and whole class, as well as individual work are focused
on throughout the course. Young Adult Literature focuses on developing many important skills
in reading, writing, and speaking. The course deals with many possible novel choices, such as
The Knife of Never Letting Go, Between Shades of Gray, The Catcher in the Rye, I’ll Give you
the Sun, The Graveyard Book, Tease, Shatter Me, Boys Without Names, Butter, The Other Wes
Moore, as well as individual choice in novels.
Prerequisites: The course is open to students who have either successfully completed
Sophomore English, or have completed Freshman English with a “C” or higher.
Philosophy in Literature
1133A
1 Semester
½ Credit
11, 12
Description:
Philosophy in Literature is a survey course in which we will be studying the concepts of
philosophy through the examination of short texts. We will answer central questions such as; is
war logical, what makes a person moral, and what is the true nature of reality? This course is
presented by topic and will incorporate ancient philosophers as well as many modern era
thinkers. It is designed to make students aware of their own thinking and deepen their
understanding of the world around them.
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Prerequisites: Successful completion of Freshman English
Films and Literature 1134A
1 Semester
½ Credit
11, 12
Description:
Students will study the history of film and cinematography. They will learn methods of
evaluating these disciplines by developing a working film vocabulary including the study of
various aspects of production: composition, cinematography, motion, editing, sound, light, etc.
They will learn to make constructive criticisms and judgments about the kinds of programs and
films they view and listen to, changing the way they view media.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Freshman English
Multicultural Literature
1135A
1 Semester
½ Credit
9, 10, 11, 12
Description:
This course discusses how our identities are shaped through culture, both from an American and
a global perspective. We will read and discuss stories, poems, memoirs, speeches, and essays,
along with graphic novels in order to analyze how authors of diverse cultural backgrounds use
their voice to express their experiences and spread awareness. Readings will encompass many
different cultures from America and around the world, and the units will encompass texts and
research related to how identities are shaped, finding our voices, and finding our strength.
Prerequisites: Successful completion of Freshman English
Women's Voices In Literature
1136A
1 Semester
½ Credit
11, 12
Description:
This course discusses the establishment, role, and impact of the voice of women in literature. We
will read and discuss stories, poems, memoirs, speeches, essays, articles, and a novel in the
context of understanding the evolution of women’s voices and impact in American society from
the 19th century to the present day. Units are focused on establishing a voice, gender
roles/stereotypes, and the feminist identity.
Prerequisites: successful completion of Sophomore English
AP Seminar
1196A, B
2 Semesters
1 Credit
10
Description:
A foundational course in the AP Capstone program that develops students' skills in research,
analysis, and argumentation. Students explore real-world issues from multiple perspectives,
conduct independent research, and present their findings through various formats, including
presentations, essays, and collaborative projects.
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