Barker Creek Community School

Students should take 6 credits per year. 

**Personalized Pathway Requirement (PPR), related courses that lead to a specific post high school career or educational outcome chosen by the student based on the student’s interests and High School and Beyond Plan, which may include Career and Technical Education, and are intended to provide a focus for the student’s learning. Personalized Pathway Requirements (PPR) are up to three course credits chosen by a student to meet specific postsecondary Career or education goals that align with the student’s interests and High School and Beyond Plan. PPR credits may replace one of two arts credits and both world language credits, in any combination of these credits up to a total of three PPR credits. Meet with school counselor to develop PPR

Grade 9 Freshman

Grade 10 Sophomore

Grade 11 Junior

Grade 12 Senior

Fundamentals in English Composition
As a beginning writer, you will gain the tools you need to write effectively for school and life in Fundamentals of English Composition. This course defines the characteristics of effective writing, identifies different purposes for writing, and teaches you strategies for achieving those purposes. The course also provides in-depth instruction on the writing process, focusing on prewriting and revision.

English 9 
Classic and contemporary works of American, British, and world literature in a variety of genres are introduced in English 9. Students analyze short fiction, nonfiction, and poetry selections. Students also read and analyze novels and other major literary works. Reading and writing assignments strengthen students’ understanding of literary elements in poetry, fiction, and drama; the characteristics of narrative, expository, and persuasive writing; correct grammar and usage; and research skills. The thematic units include works by Homer, Gabriel García Márquez, and Leslie Marmon Silko.
English 10 
The timeless themes in world literature are emphasized in English 10, drawing from literature of the Americas, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, the Pacific Rim, and Africa. A classic world literature selection introduces each region, followed by short fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and/ or drama. Students explore the cultures surrounding each piece of literature and consider the similarities that unite the human family. The survey of world literature includes works by Margaret Atwood, Pablo Neruda, and Eugène Ionesco. Students continue to strengthen their mastery of the writing process and compose for various purposes. Skills are further developed, including the research process and oral communication.
English 11 
Students focus on the literary movements that comprise American literature and trace the chronology of national literature from the early American and colonial period through the contemporary period. Students read selections from the Native American oral tradition; seminal historical documents and essays; and fiction, nonfiction, poetry, and drama. The survey of American authors includes Mark Twain, Ralph Ellison, and Julia Alvarez. Students continue to strengthen and apply higher-level critical reading, literary analysis, and research skills through the use of graphic organizers and note-taking strategies.
English 12 
Students study classical and contemporary British literature from the Anglo-Saxon period to the modern era. They examine how the historical, social, and cultural contexts of each period influenced writers. Particular attention is given to the form and function of different types of literature, including epic poetry, allegory, lyric poetry, fiction, nonfiction, and drama. The survey of British literature includes excerpts from Geoffrey Chaucer, William Shakespeare, and Virginia Woolf. Students write creative and analytical compositions and participate in collaborative discussions to refine their writing products.

Algebra 1 
Students learn about the properties of real numbers and apply their knowledge to equations, inequalities, and multi-step equations. They move on to identify, write, and graph functions and equations; simplify radical expressions; solve quadratic equations; and factor and perform operations with binomials and polynomials. Students calculate slope and use the slope-intercept form to graph linear equations. They also learn to solve systems of equations and inequalities both graphically and algebraically.
Geometry 
This course guides students through the exploration of geometric figures. They analyze plane figures and three-dimensional figures and apply formulas to calculate area, surface area, and volume. They learn how to use inductive and deductive logic to conduct formal proofs through predictions, counterexamples, and drawing conclusions. Students also conduct detailed analyses of the properties of parallel and perpendicular lines, triangles, polygons, quadrilaterals, and circles, including similarity and transformations.
Algebra 2 
Students engage in high-level mathematical discussions and apply algebraic concepts to real-world scenarios as they build on prior knowledge of functions, systems of equations, the quadratic formula, and factoring. Students also continue to study arithmetic and geometric sequences and series, probability and statistics, and trigonometric identities and equations. Algebra with Finance In this course, students explore the properties of real numbers and apply this knowledge to equations, inequalities, and multistep equations. Students learn to identify, write, and graph functions and equations, simplify radical expressions, and solve quadratic equations. They learn to factor and perform operations with binomials and polynomials. Students calculate slope and use slope-intercept form to graph linear equations. They also learn to solve systems of equations and inequalities both graphically and algebraically. This course is offered to qualified students.
Pre-Calculus 
In this course, students analyze various functions. They study quadratics, sequences, and series. Students expand their knowledge of trigonometric concepts and explore vectors and parametric equations. Finally, students examine concepts, including limits and derivatives, in preparation for their study of calculus. Throughout the course, lessons focus on ways in which mathematics is applied in the real world and is essential to everyday life. This, combined with an emphasis on mathematical reasoning and critical thinking skills, prepares students for future college and career opportunities.
Calculus A
Calculus A introduces limits, differentiation, and applications of differentiation. The student will find and evaluate finite and infinite limits graphically, numerically, and analytically. The student will find derivatives using a variety of methods including the chain rule and implicit differentiation. Then the student will use the first derivative test and the second derivative test to analyze and sketch functions. Finally, the student will find derivatives using a variety of methods including substitution.

The use of a graphing calculator is considered an integral part of the course and the student will use a graphing calculator throughout this course.
Calculus B
Calculus B introduces integration of functions, differential equations, and applications of integration. The student will calculate antiderivatives using a variety of methods including substitution. The student will evaluate integrals using a variety of methods including numerical integration. Then the student will understand and apply Riemann sums, definite integrals, and the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus. In particular, the student will differentiate and integrate logarithmic, exponential, and inverse trigonometric functions. The student will solve simple differential equations, which can be solved by separation of variables, and use the calculations to solve applied problems. The student will use integration to determine the area between two curves, volume, and surface area. Finally, the student will apply integration to determine work, center of mass, and fluid force.

The use of a graphing calculator is considered an integral part of the course and the student will use a graphing calculator throughout this course.
Consumer Math (CTE dual credit may be earned)
Students focus on math skills and problem-solving strategies that are relevant to practical financial applications. Topics include planning and managing a budget, avoiding common financial pitfalls, and posing questions to businesses and companies. Students also learn to examine their own spending behavior and evaluate purchasing decisions. 

Astronomy 1a: Introduction
Ever wondered how the Earth developed and exists in the vastness of space? How do the scientific laws of motion and gravity play a role in its existence? Discover answers to these questions and explore the origin of the universe, the Milky Way, and other galaxies and stars, including the concepts of modern astronomy and the methods used by astronomers to learn more about the universe.

Astronomy 1b: Exploring the Universe
Ready to explore our amazing and dynamic universe even further? You’ll be taken on an exciting journey through the solar system to explore the sun, comets, asteroids, meteors, life cycles of stars, and planets’ properties. Become familiar with the concepts of space travel and settlements, and what it could be like to live and work in space. How exciting!

Biology 
Students have frequent opportunities to debate scientific findings and analyze how biology impacts society as they study topics such as ecology, genetics, and anatomy. Using both hands-on experiments and interactive tools, they also study cells, compare microorganisms, investigate plant and animal structure and function, and explore the history of life on Earth.
Chemistry 
This rigorous full-year course engages students in the study of the composition,
properties, changes, and interactions of matter. The course covers the basic concepts of chemistry and includes 12 virtual laboratory experiments that encourage higher-order thinking applications. There is also a wet lab component for each of these labs. The components of this course include the composition and properties of matter, changes and interactions of matter, organic chemistry, and nuclear chemistry.  

Earth A
Earth Science Semester A consists of 47 lessons, which address major concepts such as the materials which compose Earth, the rock cycle and types of rocks, Earth's resources, formation and movement of soil, glaciers, deserts, and alluvial landscapes, earthquakes, volcanoes, plate tectonics, mountain building, and geologic time. Additionally, students learn about science as a process. Laboratory concepts appear in videos and key scientists are called out through portraits and biographies.

Earth B
Earth Science Semester B contains 38 lessons and covers such concepts as the ocean floor, seafloor sediments, waves, tides, and shoreline processes, characteristics of the atmosphere, precipitation, air pressure and wind, storms, climate, early astronomy, Earth-Moon-Sun interactions, and Solar System. Additionally, biographical information on key scientists and careers in Earth Science is presented.
 
Environmental Science A
This is the first of two courses that comprise Environmental Science. This course offers the student an opportunity to gain an understanding of the concepts fundamental to environmental science. These concepts are keys that will help unlock our abilities to safeguard resources, manage waste, reduce pollution, protect the food chain, adapt to changing fuel needs, and champion our planet on all levels – from the conscientious management of the smallest household to the protection of the largest biospheres.

Environmental Science B
This is the second of two courses that comprise Environmental Science. This course offers the student an opportunity to gain an understanding of the concepts fundamental to environmental science. These concepts are keys that will help unlock our abilities to safeguard resources, manage waste, reduce pollution, protect the food chain, adapt to changing fuel needs, and champion our planet on all levels — from the conscientious management of the smallest household to the protection of the largest biospheres.
 

Physics 
*Needs to have passed Algebra 2.
Students apply the math and science skills they have already learned to explain the laws of motion, analyze the laws of thermodynamics, describe the behavior of waves, and investigate the relationship between electricity and magnetism. They are introduced to quantum physics and are asked to apply physics concepts to real-life situations.
Physical Science - Chemistry (one semester) 
Students are given the opportunity to model atomic structure and to observe, represent, and interpret reactions between atoms and molecules. Students investigate the properties of solutions and analyze the nature of solids, liquids, and gases using interactive tools. They describe and calculate the energies of different types of reactions and explore electrochemistry.
Physical Science - Physics (one semester) 
Students apply the math and science skills they have already learned to explain the laws of motion, analyze the laws of thermodynamics, describe the behavior of waves, and investigate the relationship between electricity and magnetism. They are introduced to quantum physics and are asked to apply physics concepts to real-life.
 

Archaeology: Detectives of the Past
George Santayana once said, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.” The field of archaeology helps us to better understand the events and societies of the past that have helped to shape our modern world. This course focuses on this techniques, methods, and theories that guide the study of the past. Students will learn how archaeological research is conducted and interpreted, as well as how artefacts are located and preserved. Finally, students will learn about the relationship of material items to culture and what we can learn about past societies from these items.

Geography (one semester - 9th Grade)
This course addresses key concepts of physical and human geography and presents information about the United States, Canada, Latin America, Western Europe, Central Europe, Northern Eurasia, Central and Southwest Asia, Africa, South Asia, East Asia, the Pacific world, and Antarctica.
World History (10th Grade)
This course provides students with a comprehensive examination of world history, from ancient times through present day. Students explore prehistory and early civilization, focusing on the ancient civilizations of the Americas, Egypt, India, China, Greece, and Rome. They study Medieval Christian Europe from the early to late Middle Ages; regional civilizations including the Muslim world, Africa, and Asia; and early modern times with a focus on the Renaissance, Reformation, and Global Age. The course explores social, political, and economic changes of the 19th and 20th centuries, including the industrial age and independence movements. Students study the impact of nationalism, imperialism, and the world wars. Finally, they explore the Cold War, new nations, and the effects of globalization.
United States History (11th Grade)
This course contains lessons addressing historical periods from the American Revolution to globalization and the 21st century. The lessons address key concepts, important historical figures, and significant events to help students gain an understanding of the political, economic, military and social structures of the early years of the United States through its emergence as a global superpower.
Government (one semester - 12th Grade)
This course covers the foundations of American government, political behavior, and the three branches of the federal government. Built using responsive design principles, this HTML course is mobile-friendly, meets accessibility requirements, and includes expanded projects and assessments (including performance assessments).

Psychology A
This is the first of two courses that comprise Psychology. This course begins with a historical review of how man has sought to explain human behavior from ancient times to today. The student will learn about the research methods that are applied to the field and how the scientific method of inquiry moved psychology from quaint parlor tricks like hypnosis and mesmerism to serious inquiry that utilizes hard science to prove theories. The student will also learn about the amazing brain and will explore the workings of the normal brain. The student will then build upon this biological foundation to learn how the information that we take in through our senses is perceived and interpreted by the brain to form the mental images of our daily experiences in the world. The course also provides a survey of a human’s life span from birth to death. The student will learn about all of the major physical and psychological changes that mark the development of a human’s existence and a variety of theories that outline these processes.

Psychology B
This is the second of two courses that comprise Psychology. The course begins with an exploration of what makes individuals different from one another and the notion of personality. The student will dissect the widely divergent and often contradictory personality theories.
In the section on Learning, Memory, and Motivation, the student will tie together his knowledge of the biological basics of behavior with the major personality theories in order to understand the complex mental processes of learning, memory, thought, and language.
Finally, the student will shift his focus from normal to abnormal behavior, and in doing so, study the theories related to life adjustment, stress, psychological breakdown and methods of therapy.

Health (one semester) 
This course addresses topics in mental health, social health, nutrition, physical fitness, substance abuse, human development, and disease prevention. The course emphasizes the physical and emotional benefits of making healthful choices and discusses consequences of unhealthful behaviors. Critical thinking is encouraged through the use of open-ended questions, assessments, and videos that present real-life situations. Built using responsive design principles, this HTML course is mobile-friendly, meets accessibility requirements, and includes expanded projects and assessments (including performance assessments.)
Physical Education I A (one semester) & Physical Education I B (one semester) 
Physical Education I introduces topics to help you understand the importance
and meaning of true physical fitness. You will learn how to apply different approaches to help you achieve a healthy weight and keep your bones and muscles strong. At the beginning of the course,your lessons will focus on providing you with the tools and knowledge you need to design, maintain,and build a fitness routine. To support your fitness routine and safety, you will learn about the proper exercise techniques for aerobic conditioning, strength training, and flexibility. Toward the end of the course, you will receive an overview of several different types of fitness careers, learn how to locate fitness resources in your community, and discover the social, mental, and physical benefits of exercise.
Physical Education II (one semester)
Physical Education II aims to provide you with the tools and knowledge you
need to design, maintain, and build a balanced fitness routine. The course discusses the proper form for different types of exercise, including aerobic conditioning, strength training, and flexibility,along with general safety guidelines for working out. These topics will help you understand the importance and meaning of true physical fitness and apply different methods for achieving healthy weight, bones, and muscles. Fitness tests and logs allow you to determine your baseline fitness level and track your progress as you improve in all areas of physical fitness.

Spanish I 
Students cover basic vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and punctuation to build a solid foundation for further study. Assignments include engaging in simple conversation, writing paragraphs, and listening to Spanish dialogue. Students also converse with a native speaker and study the history and culture of Spanish-speaking peoples.
Spanish II 
As they engage in more advanced conversations, write paragraphs and stories, and translate to and from Spanish, students improve their vocabulary and grammar. Intense listening comprehension exercises aid in understanding more complex thoughts and subjects. Students also practice their speaking skills through conversations with a native speaker.
Spanish III 
Students build their vocabulary and communication skills even further in Spanish III. Advanced grammar, including the study of tenses, sentence structure, and punctuation, is covered. Students also practice correct accents and learn to comprehend real-world native speech.
Spanish IV 
Spanish IV A continues to build on the skills the student has mastered in his
previous Spanish courses. The student will continue to sharpen his listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through a variety of activities. Throughout the five topics covered in this course, the student will learn to express himself using an ever-increasing vocabulary, present-tense verbs, past-tense verbs, articles, and adjectives. Grammar is introduced and practiced in innovative and interesting ways with a variety of learning styles in mind. Elements
of the Spanish-speaking world and culture appear throughout the course, including people, geographical locations, and histories. Spanish IV B is a continuation of the first three and a half years of Spanish instruction. The student will continue to sharpen his listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills through a variety of activities. Throughout the five topics covered in
this course, the student will learn to express himself using an ever-increasing vocabulary, present-tense verbs, past-tense verbs, future-tense verbs, conditional-tense verbs, the subjunctive, the present perfect tense, the past perfect tense, articles, and adjectives. Grammar is introduced and practiced in innovative and interesting ways with a variety of learning styles in mind. Elements of the Spanish-speaking world and culture appear throughout the course, including people, geographical locations, and histories.

Art in World Cultures (one semester) 
This course provides an introduction to fundamental techniques and concepts of representational and expressive drawing within a variety of media. Emphasis is on object representation, spatial illusion, and the organization of structural relationships in two-dimensional space.
Fundamentals of Art Appreciation (one semester) 
Fine art doesn’t just include paintings. Did you know that graphic art, crafts, and architecture all fall under this category, too? Fundamentals of Art Appreciation is an introductory, one-semester course that explores various aspects of art to encourage you to develop an awareness of, and admiration for, fine art. This course focuses on teaching you to analyze works of art rather than create art. As you begin to examine the elements and principles of art in this course, you will study important works of art selected from various types of media, including painting, sculpture, architecture, printmaking, and photography. The course also explores crafts and graphic design and computer art. You will learn about various types of art media and techniques as you investigate the question of why art is created. This course provides you with a working knowledge of concepts and an enriched vocabulary so that you can become a more informed consumer of art.
Fundamentals of Art History (one semester) 
Moments in time and place work to inspire our most treasured works of art. Can you imagine if Goya lived during the violence and revolution of 19th century Spain? How would Daguerre have expressed himself artistically if he had not invented photography? Each artist expresses his unique moment and place in history. Fundamentals of Art History is an introductory, one semester course designed to develop your understanding and appreciation for the visual arts.
This course focuses on teaching you to analyze works of art rather than create art. In this course, you will explore the arts, artists, and their cultures from prehistoric times through the present. You will begin to explore important works of art selected from various types of media, including painting, sculpture, architecture, and photography. As the course presents works of different periods, you will receive the historical and geographic context necessary for gaining a deeper appreciation of the pieces. This course provides you with a working knowledge of concepts and an enriched vocabulary so that you can become a more informed consumer of art.
Music Appreciation (one semester) 
Music is part of everyday lives and reflects the spirit of our human condition. To know and understand music, we distinguish and identify cultures on local and global levels. This course will provide students with an aesthetic and historical perspective of music, covering a variety of styles and developments from the Middle Ages through the 21st century. Students will acquire basic knowledge and listening skills, making future music experiences more informed and satisfying.

Cosmetology 1: Cutting Edge Styles (one semester) 
Interested in a career in cosmetology? This course provides an introduction to the basics of cosmetology. Students will explore career options in the field of cosmetology, learn about the common equipment and technologies used by cosmetologists, and examine the skills and characteristics that make someone a good cosmetologist. Students will also learn more about some of the common techniques used in caring for hair, nails, and skin in salons, spas, and other cosmetology related businesses.

Cosmetology 2: The Business of Skin and Nail Care
This vibrant industry needs skilled and personable professionals well-versed in the latest trends and technological advances. Explore what the day-to-day life of a cosmetologist is like and discover that cosmetology is much more than knowing and applying techniques. Learn skin care and facials, how to give manicures and pedicures, how to apply artificial nails, and gain an understanding of different hair removal techniques. Discover the next steps towards launching a rewarding and creative career in cosmetology.
Careers in Criminal Justice 1A: Introduction (one semester) 
Students examine the process of identifying and arresting criminal suspects, types of crimes and offenses, and preparing for court. They study the history of criminal investigation and explore the relationship between investigation and the courtroom process by examining case studies.   

Careers in Criminal Justice 1b: Finding Your Specialty
Have you ever thought about a career as a police officer, an FBI or DEA agent, or any occupation that seeks to pursue justice for all? Careers in criminal justice can be found at local, county, state, federal, and international levels, and even in the private sector. Explore some of the various occupations in this field through this course, while simultaneously learning how they interact with each other and other first responders.

Discover important aspects of criminal justice careers, such as implementing interviewing techniques, collaborating with other agencies and departments, cooperating with global partners, and communicating with various audiences. All of these tasks are completed while understanding the importance of ethical decision making in criminal justice. It is important to know and have the character required to know the difference between right and wrong to be successful in this field. If a career in criminal justice is something you hope to pursue, the course ends with some helpful information for finding employment in criminal justice.
Career Planning and Skill Development
As a high school student, it may seem like entering the workforce is right around the corner. It’s important that you’re prepared. The Career Planning and Skill Development course will introduce you to the workforce by having you explore your interests, values, and skills. Knowing yourself better in this way will help you plan for your future career. As part of this planning process, you will learn about a variety of career fields—from business, to education, to public service. Many career fields may interest you. The course also teaches you the important task of finding a job. You will learn how to write a cover letter and resume, fill out a job application, and act in an interview. You will learn the qualities of a successful employee, and additional career-related skills, such as problem-solving and communication.
Principles of Business and Finance A & B
In this course, the student will explore business in global society, learning terminology, concepts, systems, strategies, and current issues. Topics include the business environment, ethics, entrepreneurship and global business, management, marketing, production, information systems, and financial elements. By the end of the course, the student will be able to:

1. Describe the key components of the contemporary U.S. and international business environment
2. Describe the role of ethics and social responsibility in the business environment
3. Examine how businesses can be organized and structured
4. Analyze the various functions of and approaches to management
5. Examine the key strategies, tools, and issues involved in business operations
6. Develop a business plan incorporating business concepts, systems, and strategies

Computer Literacy A
Most children can read and write for a while before they are literate. Once they learn to put their skills to work, though, they acquire literacy. It’s the same thing with computer literacy. You may know how to do some things on the computer—but to be computer literate, you have to make those skills work for you. That’s what you will learn in Computer Literacy A, a one-semester course. You will develop your overall understanding of computers and enhance your technical skills in both basic computer functions and in the use of various types of software. After completing this course, you will be able to recognize computer hardware and use Windows XP and Mac OS operating systems. You will learn to use various software applications (word processing, spreadsheet, and presentation software), which are based on Open Office programs unless otherwise noted. You will also learn to navigate the Internet and use e-mail and FTP. When studying word processing software, you will write a letter and format documents, create tables and charts, and use other advanced tools. You will learn how to format and use the basic tools and formulas of spreadsheet software. You will also create an animated, interactive project using presentation software.

Computer Literacy B
With a solid background of software and hardware skills, you are ready tackle advanced computer applications. This one-semester course builds on basic computer skills to teach you real-world problem-solving methods. After quickly reviewing the basics from Computer Literacy A, you will continue to develop your understanding of key issues in computing technology. Your study of spreadsheets will deepen with lessons on how to format chart and graphs, use formulas and functions, and create pivot tables and pivot charts. You will learn how to manage data using a database, including tables, forms, and queries and reports. You will learn the layout, interface design, and navigation required to develop content on the web. The course ends with a unit covering careers in technology.

Pre-requisite: Computer Literacy A

Culinary Arts 1a: Introduction
Thinking of a career in the foodservice industry or looking to develop your culinary skills? Explore basic cooking and knife skills while preparing you for entry into the culinary world. Discover the history of food culture, food service, and global cuisines while learning about food science principles and preservation. Prepare for your future by building the professional, communication, leadership, and teamwork skills that are crucial to a career in the culinary arts.

Culinary Arts 1b: Finding Your Palate
Did you know that baking is considered a science? Discover how to elevate your culinary skills through the creation of stocks, soups, sauces, and learn baking techniques. Examine sustainable food practices and the benefits of nutrition while maintaining taste, plating, and presentation to truly wow your guests. Explore careers in the culinary arts for ways to channel your newfound passion!

Life Skills: Navigating Adulthood
What do you want out of life? How do you achieve your dreams for the future? These can be difficult questions to answer, but they don’t have to be with the right tools. Learn more about yourself and prepare for the future through goal setting, decision making, surviving college and career, and how to become a valuable contributing member of society. It’s your life; make it count!