Students build a solid math foundation that will help them to do well in higher-level math. This class covers the basic math operations, fractions, percentages, exponents, scientific notation, unit conversions, Roman numerals, solving basic equations, and geometry.
This course introduces the student to algebraic thinking and gradually builds equation-solving skills. The curriculum consists of problems that use integers, decimals, rational numbers (fractions), percents and square roots. Students will learn to graph basic functions. A review of basic geometry, area and volume is included. Statistics and probability are introduced at a very understandable level. This course is designed to help the student make an easy transition to Algebra 1.
Algebra 1 sets the foundation for higher level math. Students learn the fundamental concepts of algebra. The topics covered include: relations and functions, graphing, linear equations, systems of equations, radicals, exponents, factoring polynomials, rational equations, and quadratic functions. Students will learn how to solve equations and how to translate word problems into equations. A graphing calculator is required for this class.
I strongly recommend that students take Geometry before taking Algebra 2. It gives them a year to practice the skills they've learned in Algebra 1 and it teaches them how to work logically through a complex problem. They need that skill in Algebra 2. The Geometry course covers the basic elements of geometry, proofs, parallel and perpendicular lines, the coordinate plane, triangles, quadrilaterals, polygons, circles, trigonometry, congruence and similarity, surface area, and volume. The textbook for this class has an algebra review at the end of every chapter so they will maintain their problem-solving skills throughout the year. It also includes many SAT prep problems to help them prepare for standardized tests.
Algebra 2 prepares students for college-level Algebra. Students learn to work with a variety of functions: linear, linear systems, quadratics, exponential, logarithmic, rational and irrational. At the beginning of each unit, the basic concepts from Algebra 1 are reviewed and then new concepts are built on them. Students will also learn about imaginary numbers, regression analyses, sequences and series, probability, and conic sections. Students need a graphing calculator.
In this class, students are introduced to higher order functions, matrices, trigonometric functions and identities, polar and parametric functions, the concept of limits, and basic differentiation and integration rules. Upon completion of this course, the student should be prepared for the math portion of the SAT and ACT exams.
Students who take this course will learn about all the concepts include on the AP Calculus A/B exam. Topics include: limits and their properties, differentiation and applications of differentiation, integration and applications of integration, and differential equations. This course covers material typically included in Calc 1 and Calc 2 of most college calculus courses. Calculus is counted as an honors class.
Business Math gives students the skills to manage a business, investments, banking, and income taxes. Students will learn about accounts receivable and payable, bookkeeping, stocks and bonds, and small business loans. Prerequisite: Algebra 2
Top of PageEarth Science is the study of the earth, its atmosphere, and space. In this class students learn astronomy, geology, meteorology, and hydrology. They will do lab experiments in class, make projects, and take a field trip. (8th - 12th grades)
Biology is the study of living things. Students will learn about organisms in all the biological kingdoms, from microscopic life to the human body. Topics covered include: genetics, biochemistry, and ecology. Students will perform lab activities and projects, such as using the microscope to examine cells and completing four dissections (worm, crayfish, fish, frog). Students have the option of taking this as an honors class. To earn honors credit, extra assignments must be completed.
This course covers all the concepts in high school chemistry in an easy to understand format. Students will learn about atomic and molecular structure, energy and calorimetry, chemical and physical changes, working with chemical equations, solutions, acids and bases, gas laws, thermodynamics, reaction rates, equilibrium, and redox reactions. Students have the option of taking this as an honors class. To earn honors credit, extra assignments must be completed. Prerequisite: Algebra 1
Physics introduces the student to the laws of motion and energy. Students will study one and two-dimensional motion, vectors, circular motion, work and energy, momentum, periodic motion, waves, optics, thermodynamics, electricity, magnetism, fluid mechanics, and relativity. Students have the option of taking this as an honors class. To earn honors credit, extra assignments must be completed. Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 2
Earth & Sky is a great "hands on" science class that teaches kids about geology, meteorology, hydrology, and astronomy. Students will do lab activities and make projects. Each week, students receive a brief homework assignment that reviews or adds to the material covered in class. Students in 6th - 8th grade have the option of using a textbook to complete additional assignments to supplement each lesson. Answers for the homework are emailed to the parents after each class. (5th - 8th Grades)
Top of PageThis year students will be studying Great Literature. They will read a variety of interesting works from the "Greats" - Shakespeare, Twain, Orwell, and more. Students will practice writing short paragraphs, narratives, creative writing assignments, essays, and "real world" writing assignments to develop their writing skills. Students have the option of taking this as an honors class.(9th grade and up.)
In US History, we will study from the time before there were boundaries and state lines all the way to the 21st century. Students will learn about the important people and events that shaped our nation. (9th & up)
This is a hands-on, high-interest trip through American & Texas History. Students will learn about important people and events in American & Texas history as they practice their writing skills. They will do fun projects and activities to learn about the culture from each period of our history. (6th - 8th grades)
Spanish is the second-most spoken language in the world, and it is useful to know. This class's emphasis is on developing four skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. It also provides them with an introduction to Spanish culture, vocabulary, and grammar. (8th grade and up.)
Top of PageThis is a great elective for creative techy teens! Students will make several projects to learn about switches, LEDs, sensors, circuits, and Python coding. All kinds of electrical equipment can be controlled by mobile phone and, in this class, students will learn how. In the spring semester, students can choose a project to design such as a robot, drone, or RC car (8th - 12th grades)
In Honors Classes, students do additional assignments that are challenging and help the student prepare for college courses. These courses include material that is on the AP and SAT Subjects tests. Because honors courses carry more weight, they can increase a student's grade point average (GPA) on their high school transcript. When a student completes honors classes, it shows colleges that the student is capable of working at an advanced level. All students are welcome to start a class on the honors track, but they may change to the regular track at anytime if they decide not to pursue the honors credit.
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