Contentschoice. Special emphasis is placed on grammar, usage, punctuation, and reading comprehension in relation to the PSAT, ACT, and Advanced Placement tests. Students should expect

The mission of Patrick F. Taylor Science & Technology Academy is to provide a rigorous learning

environment that assures college-readiness, while fostering leadership and encouraging community

involvement for all students.

Middle School Vision

Our vision is to be a middle school whose students accept responsibility as full participants in the school

culture to ensure individual and collective success in our advanced STEAM curriculum in order to prepare

all students for our accelerated high school.

High School Vision

Our vision is to be a top 10 nationally ranked high school where students take ownership of the school

culture by demonstrating resilience in an accelerated curriculum which will ensure success for all students.

Our students will have an influential impact as leaders at their institutions of higher learning and in the

global community.

In addition to traditional courses, Taylor also offers high school students a wide range of Advanced

Placement (AP) and Dual Enrollment courses on our main campus, online, and on local university and

college campuses.

Contents

English/Language Arts .................................................................................................................................. 3

Mathematics ................................................................................................................................................ 9

Science ...................................................................................................................................................... 12

Social Studies .............................................................................................................................................. 16

Foreign Languages ...................................................................................................................................... 19

Visual and Performing Arts ......................................................................................................................... 21

Technology ................................................................................................................................................ 24

Health & Physical Education ....................................................................................................................... 27

English/Language Arts

English/Language Arts 6 Honors

The sixth grade English Language Arts Honors Curriculum includes all grade level expectations from the

grade seven curriculum as delineated in the Louisiana Student Standards and implemented by Jefferson

Parish.

In order be issued honors credit, the successful student will need to complete the following course

requirements:

I. Core Readings: Students will need to read and analyze a number of text in different genres including:

· Short Story

· Poetry

· Historical Fiction

· Mystery Fiction

· Realistic Fiction

· Non-Fiction

The expectation is that these texts will be completed as part of routine classwork, independently at home,

and as part of the summer reading program

II. Writing: Students will be expected to develop and cultivate strong writing skills including:

· Forming a clear claim

· Supporting a theme with relevant, text-based evidence

· Analyzing text and articulating a coherent position in writing

· Annotating text

· Research writing skills

English/Language Arts 6 Gifted

The sixth grade English Language Arts Gifted Curriculum includes all grade level expectations from the

grade seven honors curriculum as delineated in the Louisiana Student Standards and implemented by

Jefferson Parish.

In order be issued gifted credit, the successful student will need to complete the following course

requirements:


· Short Story

· Poetry


· Mystery Fiction


· Non-Fiction


and as part of the summer reading program.

II. Writing: Students will be expected to develop and cultivate strong writing skills including:

· Developing skills in expository and narrative composition

· Introducing and building the multi-paragraph essay

· Refining grammar, usage, and mechanics through practice and application

· Develop vocabulary through and in context

· Forming a clear claim

· Supporting a theme with relevant, text-based evidence

· Analyzing text and articulating a coherent position in writing

· Annotating text

· Research writing skills

English/Language Arts 7 Honors and Gifted

The seventh grade English Language Arts curriculum includes all grade level expectations from the eighth

grade curriculum as delineated in the Louisiana Student Standards and implemented by Jefferson Parish.

In order be issued honors credit, the successful student will need to complete the following course

requirements:


· Short Story

· Poetry


· Mystery Fiction


· Non-Fiction


and as part of the summer reading program. In order to attain honors credit, this course has a specific

summer reading requirement of three books from a list of choices as well as outside reading of three

hundred pages per quarter.

Using project-based instruction, students are expected to read a variety of literary genres, including but not

limited to:

Elements of Literature Supplemental materials as designated by the teacher, department or parish

Online resources that further develop analytical and interpretive skills in literature

Interdisciplinary connections are made through projects that integrate areas of social, cultural and political

thought.

English I Honors

Credit: 1 Carnegie Unit

Prerequisite: Completion of 7th grade

Within a Common Core-aligned curriculum, English I honors is a comprehensive, project-based course,

focusing on a study of literature, composition, and language, including vocabulary study, speaking, and

listening. The literature component of the course encompasses reading, comprehending, and responding to

various genres, short stories, poetry, novels, non-fiction, and drama. The writing component of the course

emphasizes the writing process/craft to develop various modes (description, narration, exposition, and

persuasion) of multi-paragraph essays for different purposes and audiences. Students must locate, select,

and synthesize information from a variety of sources in order to present knowledge in a variety of formats,

including the documented essay. The language component of the course integrates grammar, usage,

mechanics, and spelling in context of composition and literature. Also, the English I honors course requires

summer reading, a minimum of 400 pages per nine weeks (a block semester) of outside reading, and entry

into a minimum of two contests or competitions.

English II Honors


Prerequisite: English I Honors

The course offers a study of literature, composition, and language. The literature component encompasses

reading, comprehending, and responding to various short stories, poetry, novels, nonfiction, and drama.

The composition component of the course emphasizes the writing process and developing various modes of

writing for different purposes and audiences. The language component of the course integrates grammar,

usage and mechanics with reading and writing. In addition to considering a work’s literary merit, students

examine the social and historical values it reflects and embodies. Careful attention to both textual detail

and historical context provides a foundation for interpretation. Through the close reading of selected texts,

students deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to provide meaning for their

audience. Writing assignments focus on the critical analysis of literature and include expository, analytical,

and argumentative essays. Oral communication in the form of seminars and presentations serve as another

means of demonstrating clarity of thinking and ability to organize ideas. As they do in all high school level

English courses, students hone skills tested by standardized tests including LEAP, SAT, ACT, and Advanced

Placement courses.

English III Honors


Prerequisites: English I Honors and English II Honors

This course is a one semester study of American Literature. Students read extensively in American

Literature from works from Colonial America in the 1600s through contemporary literature using novels,

plays, poetry, and nonfiction works. English III focuses on interpreting works of literature through close

reading, critical thinking, research, and writing. Additionally, students develop oral communication skills

through extensive discussion based on readings and research. Writing assignments vary in form and

purpose, including at least two Advanced Placement style literary analysis essays per quarter. Students also

prepare for the PSAT in the fall semester and the ACT in the spring semester. This course covers material at

a rigorous pace and requires daily outside reading and other assignments.

English IV Honors


Prerequisites: English I Honors, English II Honors, English III Honors

This course offers an examination of British and world literature through reading short stories, novels,

drama, poetry, and essays. Students respond orally and in writing to the literature through literary,

political, and cultural analysis. In English IV, students exercise their critical thinking and research skills

through assignments ranging from research-based papers to college essays. Additionally, students will

master the writing process and develop more fluid writing, working with sentence variety and precise word

choice. Special emphasis is placed on grammar, usage, punctuation, and reading comprehension in relation

to the PSAT, ACT, and Advanced Placement tests. Students should expect nightly outside reading and

writing assignments.

AP English Language and Composition


Prerequisites: English I Honors, English II Honors

The goal of the AP English Language and Composition course is to enable students to read a variety of

complex texts with a structured approach and to write prose of sufficient complexity to communicate

effectively with mature readers. An AP course in English Language and Composition engages students as

skilled readers of prose written in a variety of rhetorical contexts. In their writing, students will consider

how genre conventions, audience expectations and the resources of language contribute to effective

writing.

- The College Board

Most college composition courses emphasize the expository, analytical and argumentative writing that

forms the basis of academic and professional writing. While methods of instruction vary from course to

course, The Council of Writing Program Administrators has identified the following as characteristics of

effective academic writing: logical organization, enhanced by specific techniques to increase coherence,

such as emphasis, transition and repetition., a balance of generalization and specific illustrative detail, a

variety of sentence structures, including appropriate use of subordination and coordination, and an

effective use of rhetoric, including controlling tone, establishing and maintaining voice, and achieving

appropriate emphasis through diction and sentence structure. In addition to the writing component of the

course, students will develop skills in public speaking and debate. AP English Language and Composition

provides students with unique opportunities to develop critical thinking and communication skills essential

to success in college.

AP Literature and Composition


Prerequisites: English I Honors, English II Honors

This course engages students in the careful reading and critical analysis of imaginative literature. Through

close reading of selected texts, students will deepen their understanding of the ways writers use language to

create meaning. The course is intended to give students the experience of a typical introductory college

literature course. It includes intensive study of representative works from various genres, periods, and

cultures, concentrating on works of recognized literary merit. Building n readings from previous English

classes, students will learn to read deliberately and thoroughly, taking time to understand a work's

complexity, to absorb its richness of meaning, and to analyze how that meaning is embodied in literary

form. Students will also consider the social and historical values a work reflects and embodies. Careful

attention to both textual detail and historical context provides a foundation for interpreting a text.

Writing is also an integral part of the AP English Literature and Composition course and of the AP Exam.

Writing assignments in the course will address the critical analysis of literature and will include expository,

analytical, and argumentative essays. In addition, creative-writing assignments such as response and

reaction papers, freewriting, or keeping a journal will help you see from the inside how literature is

written. The goal of both types of writing assignments is to increase the students’ ability to explain clearly

and cogently what they understand about literary works and how they interpret them.

AP Seminar


Prerequisites: English I-IV

AP seminar is the first of two AP Capstone courses that focus on building students’ research and

presentation skills. Students explore real-world topics and issues by researching, reading, evaluating, and

analyzing complex texts including pieces from professional journals, speeches, and research studies. The

course aims to have students recognize how issues can be viewed from multiple perspectives so that they

can develop their own viewpoints. To receive credit for the course, students compose two independent

research papers, one team multimedia presentation, and one individual multimedia presentation. The

course culminates with an AP test in May. With a score of 3 or higher on AP Seminar and AP Research and

on four additional AP exams, students can earn the Capstone Diploma. Those who score 3 or higher on

Seminar and Research but do not score a 3 or higher on four additional AP Exams will receive the AP

Seminar and Research Certificate. AP Seminar is a prerequisite for AP Research.

AP Research


Prerequisites: AP Seminar

The second of two AP Capstone courses, AP Research gives students the opportunity to choose a scholarly

research question of personal interest and explore it through the research and writing process. In doing so,

they perfect their skills of interpretation, analysis, and synthesis. As part of the class’s required portfolio,

students create their own scholarly work in the form of a 4,000-5,000 word academic paper, a presentation

of their findings, and an oral defense of their positions. With a score of 3 or higher on AP Seminar and AP

Research and on four additional AP exams, students can earn the Capstone Diploma. Those who score 3 or

higher on Seminar and Research but do not score a 3 or higher on four additional AP Exams will receive

the AP Seminar and Research Certificate. AP Seminar is a prerequisite for AP Research.

Mathematics

Grade 6 Math (7th grade curriculum)

In Grade 7 Honors Mathematics, instructional time focuses on four critical areas as described by the

Louisiana Student Standards for Mathematics : (1) developing understanding of and applying proportional

relationships; (2) developing understanding of operations with rational numbers and working with

expressions and linear equations; (3) solving problems involving scale drawings and informal geometric

constructions, and working with two- and three-dimensional shapes to solve problems involving area,

surface area, and volume; and (4) analyzing data and drawing inferences about populations based on

samples.

Grade 7 Math (Pre-Algebra)

In the Pre-Algebra curriculum, instructional time focuses on three critical areas as described by the 8th

grade Louisiana State Standards for Mathematics: (1) formulating and reasoning about expressions and

equations, including modeling an association in bivariate data with a linear equation, and solving linear

equations and systems of linear equations; (2) grasping the concept of a function and using functions to

describe quantitative relationships; (3) analyzing two- and three-dimensional space and figures using

distance, angle, similarity, and congruence, and understanding and applying the Pythagorean Theorem.

Algebra I


Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra

Algebra I provides a formal development of the algebraic skills and concepts necessary for students to

succeed in advanced courses. In particular, the instructional program in this course provides for the use of

algebraic skills in a wide range of problem-solving situations. The concept of function is emphasized

throughout the course. Topics include: (1) operations with real numbers, (2) linear equations and

inequalities, (3) relations and functions, (4) polynomials, (5) algebraic fractions, and (6) nonlinear

equations.

Geometry


Prerequisite: Algebra I

During high school, students begin to formalize their geometry experiences from elementary and middle

school, using more precise definitions and developing careful proofs. Properties and relationships of

geometric objects include the study of four key areas: (1) points, lines, angles, and planes; (2) polygons,

with a focus on quadrilaterals, triangles, and particularly right triangles; (3) circles; and (4) polyhedra and

other solids. Analytic geometry connects algebra and geometry, resulting in powerful methods of analysis

and problem solving. Geometric shapes can be described by equations, making algebraic manipulation into

a tool for geometric understanding, modeling, and proof. Dynamic geometry environments provide

students with experimental and modeling tools that allow them to investigate geometric phenomena in

much the same way as computer algebra systems allow them to experiment with algebraic phenomena.

Algebra II



Algebra II is a continuation and expansion of Algebra I content. Major topics include set theory, field

properties and theorems, systems of linear equations and inequalities, quadratics and the complex number

system, rational equations, radicals and rational exponents, sequences and series. Multiple representations

and technology are used to support and extend the content being studied, especially with respect to the

study of functions: absolute value functions, piecewise functions, quadratic functions, polynomial

functions, exponential functions, and logarithmic functions.

Adv Math – Pre Calc: DE – CMAT 1223 Trigonometry

(LSU Math 1022 – Trigonometry)

Credit: 3 College Course Hours & 1 Carnegie Unit

Prerequisites (subject to change and in addition to La State Board of Regents minimum GPA requirement

for enrollment in any DE course): Minimum composite score of ACT – 19 or SAT – 990 AND minimum

math score of ACT – 25 or SAT – 590 OR credit in Math 1021 with a grade of “C” or better.

Formerly known as Advanced Math – Pre-Calculus, this three credit-hour course will include the

following topics: evaluating trigonometric functions of general angles; graphing trigonometric functions;

inverse trigonometric functions; identities and formulas; solving trigonometric equations; triangle

applications; polar graphs; and vectors.

AP Calculus AB


Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus

AP Calculus AB aims to develop students’ understanding of the major concepts of calculus (limits,

derivatives, integrals, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus) and to provide experience with its methods

and applications. The course emphasizes a multi-representational approach in which problems and results

are expressed graphically, numerically, analytically and verbally. Students’ learning is enhanced with,

though not overshadowed by, use of technology. Students who successfully complete this course and its

nationally-administered exam typically receive credit for one semester of college-level calculus.

AP Statistics


Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus

AP Statistics introduces students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing and drawing

conclusions from data. In this course, students are exposed to the following four conceptual themes:

1. Exploring Data – Describing patterns and departures from patterns

2. Sampling and Experimentation – Planning and conducting a study

3. Anticipating Patterns – Exploring random phenomena using probability and simulation

4. Statistical Inference – Estimating population parameters and testing hypotheses

Students who successfully complete this course and its nationally-administered exam may receive credit for

a one-semester, introductory, non-calculus-based college course in statistics.

Algebra III: DE – CMAT 1213 College Algebra

(LSU Math 1021 – College Algebra)

Credit: 3 College Course Hours & 1 Carnegie Unit

Prerequisites (subject to change and in addition to La State Board of Regents minimum GPA requirement

for enrollment in any DE course): Minimum composite score of ACT – 19 or SAT/PSAT – 990 AND

minimum math score of ACT – 19 or SAT/PSAT – 500. If none of these scores are available, a composite

score of PreACT – 19 and a minimum math score of PreACT -19 will be accepted.

Formerly known as Advanced Math – Functions and Statistics, this three credit-hour course will include

the following topics: solving equations and inequalities; lines; circles; systems of equations; functions and

their graphs; inverse functions; polynomial, rational, exponential and logarithmic functions with

applications.

Science

Science 6 Honors

Sixth grade students investigate the principles of physical, earth and life science (focus on physical science)

through activities, projects and focused learning. Students learn to apply science & engineers practices to

solve problems and collect data in a variety of laboratory experiments. Students will learn about topics

including: Earth's place in the Universe, different types of energy & forces, waves & sound, Newton's laws,

cells and ecology.

Science 7 Honors

Seventh grade students investigate the principles of physical, earth and life science (focus on life science)

through activities, projects and focused learning. Students learn to apply science & engineering practices to

solve problems and collect data in a variety of laboratory experiments. Students will learn about topics

including: structure and properties of matter, chemical reactions, the human body, genetics, biodiversity

and weather patterns.

Science 8 Honors

Seventh grade students investigate the principles of physical, earth and life science (focus on Earth science)

through activities, projects and focused learning. Students learn to apply science & engineering practices to

solve problems and collect data in a variety of laboratory experiments.

Physical Science Honors


Prerequisite: Completion of Science 8

The course will integrate earth science concepts with physical science concepts through a project based

curriculum and hands-on laboratory exercises. The topics covered will include measurement and symbolic

representation, atomic structure, properties of matter, chemical reactions, forces and motion, and energy.

Biology Honors


Prerequisite: Physical Science

Students will investigate the molecular basis of Biology in a project-based curriculum and through hands-

on laboratory exercises. The course will cover topics such as the cell, the molecular basis of heredity,

biological evolution, interdependence of organisms, systems and behaviors of organisms, as well as,

personal and community health.

Biology II


Prerequisite: Biology

Biology II is a one-semester equivalent college course that merges rigor with creativity and offers students

myriad opportunities for learning through scientific inquiry and the development of laboratory skills.

Students investigate 3 topic areas: the chemistry of life, cells, cell processes, genetics, and evolution.

AP Biology


Prerequisite: Biology II

AP Biology is a one-semester equivalent college course that merges rigor with creativity and offers students

myriad opportunities for learning through scientific inquiry and the development of laboratory skills.

Students will continue to investigate topics from Biology II, focusing on Cell signaling in disease, Body

Processes, Neuroscience, Immunology, Behavior, and Ecology. Completion of Biology II and AP Biology

will prepare students to successfully complete the AP Biology exam.

Anatomy and Physiology Honors



Anatomy and physiology is a course that will enable students to develop and extend their understanding of

the relationships between the structures and functions of the human body. Students will explore principles

of physiological systems, how they are applied to human health and well-being, and associated pathologies.

Students will also learn the mechanisms for maintaining homeostasis within the human body. Higher order

thinking is stressed through assessments and synthesis of anatomical knowledge combined with exposure to

clinical analysis. This course will involve laboratory activities, projects, dissections, textbook material,

models, diagrams, journal writings, and clinical studies.

Forensic Science:



Forensic Science uses a structured and scientific approach to investigate crimes of abuse and neglect,

accidental death, assault, domestic violence, homicide, and the psychology of criminal behavior. Students

will learn the terminology involved and the investigative procedures related to crime scenes, questioning

witnesses, interviewing techniques, criminal behavior characteristics, truth detection, and scientific

procedures used to solve crimes. By using scientific methods, students will collect and analyze evidence

through case studies and simulated crime scenes. Students will learn the history, legal aspects, and career

options for careers in and related to forensic science

Chemistry Honors



Students investigate the properties of matter through hands on laboratory experiments and classroom

discussions. Students are expected to master the ability to describe chemical reactions through balanced

equations and perform routine chemical calculations. Students have access to a variety of technology to

enable to data collection, analysis, and presentation of results in multimedia and collaborative platforms.

Chemistry II


Prerequisite: Chemistry

Chemistry II is a course that expands upon the content and labs covered in the sophomore chemistry class.

Topics covered include chemical equilibrium; acid-base concepts; thermodynamics; kinetics;

electrochemistry.

Physics Honors


Prerequisite: None

Physics is the study of the fundamental laws that determine the workings of the universe. The topics

covered include: motion, force, gravity, momentum, energy, heat, fluids, waves, light, optics, electricity,

magnetism, and the structure of the atom. Basic trigonometry is integral to the course and it will be

reviewed as needed. Critical thinking skills are developed through labs and projects. An independent

project is required for honors credit.

AP Physics


Prerequisite: Physics

AP Physics I is an algebra-based, introductory college-level physics course. Students cultivate their

understanding of Physics through inquiry-based investigations as they explore these topics: kinematics;

dynamics; circular motion and gravitation; energy; momentum; simple harmonic motion; torque and

rotational motion; electric charge and electric force; DC circuits; and mechanical waves and sound.

AP Environmental Science


Prerequisite: Students should have completed two years of high school laboratory science—one year of life

science and one year of physical science. They should also have taken at least one year of algebra. A course

in earth science is desirable but not necessary.

AP Environmental Science is a year-long college level science course that provides the scientific principles,

concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify

and analyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks

associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them.

Astronomy


Prerequisite: None

The purpose of this course is to enable students to develop and apply knowledge of the universe and

compare the conditions, properties, and motions of bodies in space. Emphasis shall be placed on concepts

basic to Earth, including materials, processes, history, and the environment. This course introduces you to

the composition and structure of the universe. Astronomy is the scientific study of the contents of the

entire Universe. This course will provide the student with a study of the universe and the conditions,

properties, and motions of bodies in space. The content includes, but is not limited to, historical astronomy,

astronomical instruments, the celestial sphere, the solar system, the earth as a system in space, the

earth/moon system, the sun as a star, and stars.

Social Studies

Social Studies 6 (World History) Honors

This course is a one semester course that covers topics in World history, from hunter-gatherers through the

Reformation. The course also emphasizes the development of basic geographical skills and the analysis of

primary and secondary source documents. This course is a state tested course in which all students will take the

LEAP 2025 at the end of the school year.

Social Studies 7 (United States History) Honors

This course is a one semester course that covers topics in American history, from the country's birth through

the Reconstruction period. The course also investigates the United States' global relationships, foreign policy,

and current events. The role of a citizen, geographic influences on the nation's development, and the

development and responsibilities of the branches of government are also emphasized. Analysis of primary and

secondary source documents are the primary means through which instructions and assessment occur. This

course is a state tested course in which all students will take the LEAP 2025 at the end of the school year.

Social Studies 8 (Louisiana History) Honors

This course is a one semester course that provides students with a background of Louisiana history. It will

enable students to understand the geographic, political and economic developments that affect the state of

Louisiana. Students will cover early settlers in Louisiana, European colonization, Acadian History,

Louisiana Purchase, statehood, Civil War, Reconstruction, WWII home front, Civil Rights, and other

contemporary trends and issues. The course also emphasizes the analysis of primary and secondary source

documents. This course is a state tested course in which all students will take the LEAP 2025 at the end of

the school year.

World Geography Honors


Prerequisite: None

All students must complete one semester of World Geography during the high school years (9th-12th).

Students learn through a problem-solving approach to determine the connections between economics and

several problems in societies around the world, such as health, literacy, infant mortality, and other issues

through the use of primary and secondary sources, audio and visual resources, and class discussions.

Geographical tools and their study are also emphasized in this course. Examples would include, but not be

limited to cartography, GIS, GPS. Students will come away with prerequisite knowledge for further

geographical studies. In order to receive honors credit for this course, all students must complete a research

paper assigned by the teacher.

Civics Honors


Prerequisite: None

All students must complete one semester of Civics during the high school years (9th-12th). Students learn about

the Constitution and its beginnings; political parties and elections; individual rights, federalism and the three

branches of government; and state and local government. Students also learn financial literacy skills to apply to

their own lives. The course also emphasizes the analysis of primary and secondary source documents, as well as

current events to study civics in action. In order to receive honors credit for this course, all students must

complete a research paper assigned by the teacher.

United States History Honors



This one semester course focuses on United States history from the end of the Civil War to present day.

Students will explore the eras of westward expansion and industrialization, progressivism, World War I and II,

the Great Depression and New Deal, the Civil Rights era, the Cold War, and the modern era using a variety of

primary sources designed to challenge and ignite student thinking. In order to receive honors credit for this

course, all students must complete a research paper assigned by the teacher. This course is a state tested course

in which all students will take the LEAP 2025 at the end of the semester.

World History Honors



This one semester course studies the history, geography, civics, sociology, economics, culture and other

social-science subjects related to World History (1350 C.E through the present). Students will cover:

Renaissance, Reformation, Scientific Revolution, and Age of Enlightenment, Age of Exploration,

Agricultural Revolution, Industrial Revolution, influential nations and empires, prevalent political and

economic systems of the 1900s, global conflict, and other contemporary trends and issues, WWI, interwar

years, and WWII. The course also emphasizes the analysis of primary and secondary source documents. In

order to receive honors credit for this course, all students must complete a research paper assigned by the

teacher.

AP United States History


Prerequisite: United States History

This one-semester course must be taken in the same school year as United States History Honors. AP

United States History is taken in the fall semester, and United States History is taken in the spring semester,

making one full year course that covers the span of US History from Pre-Colombian contact to current day.

Through primary and secondary source document analysis, class discussions, and the writing of document

based and free response questions, student will have the opportunity to receive college credit if they

successfully score a 3 or higher on their Advanced Placement exam taken at the end of the course. Student

who take this course will still be required to take the LEAP 2025 at the end of the second half of the course.

AP Human Geography


Prerequisite: World Geography

The AP Human Geography course is equivalent to an introductory college-level course in human

geography. The course introduces students to the systematic study of patterns and processes that have

shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth's surface. Students employ spatial concepts and

landscape analysis to examine socioeconomic organization and its environmental consequences. They also

learn about the methods and tools geographers use in their research and applications. The

curriculum reflects the goals of the National Geography Standards (2012). Student will have the

opportunity to receive college credit if they successfully score a 3 or higher on their Advanced Placement

exam taken at the end of the course.

Foreign Languages

Spanish I Honors



Students will learn the basics of the Spanish language. They will make use of video and audio resources, on-

line grammar resources in addition to working on traditional pen and paper exercises, oral drilling and live

face-to-face practice. The course includes grammar, vocabulary, writing, and listening and speaking skills.

The culture of Hispanic America and Spain also forms a significant part of the course. The students will be

using the textbook ¡Avancemos! Uno! They will be given online access and passwords to electronic

workbooks, textbooks and self-check assessments. Sound recordings from native speakers will complement

the vocabulary lessons, and an integrated DVD program will link the exercises to real life situations and

lively conversations.

Spanish II Honors


Prerequisite: Spanish I

Spanish II is an intermediate-level course which adheres to the Louisiana Content Standards and

Benchmarks for Foreign Language Courses. As in Spanish I, we will continue to focus on Spanish as a

collection of four skills: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. The aim of this course is to strengthen

these skills, thus enabling students to communicate in a great variety of situations. Spanish II will begin

with a brief initial review of key concepts taught in Spanish I. We will use the textbook ¡Avancemos! Dos!

which builds directly on the materials and methods used in Spanish I. Students will improve auditory skills

by listening to dialogues/narratives recorded by native speakers of Spanish from a variety of Spanish-

speaking countries, as well as by watching and modeling video clips. Students will also read in Spanish on

topics of a practical nature, such as advertisements, tourist information, newspaper/magazine articles, signs,

menus, and business/personal letters. Students' progress will be evaluated according to workbook and audio

exercises, class presentations, dramatic performances, active participation in discussions, and frequent

quizzing. Project Based Learning will be used, where possible, to support students in the course.

Spanish III Honors


Prerequisite: Spanish II (and native speakers upon consultation)

This course is set up to meet the needs of college-preparatory high school students. Students will use the

third year level textbook ¡Avancemos! Tres! and the literature reader Album Cuentos del mundo. They will

be given online access and passwords to workbooks, textbooks and self-checking assessments, which

includes all the new material presented in the textbook. While students will still be working on the four

basic language skills (listening, speaking, writing, reading) they will learn to make use of language that goes

beyond casual conversation, such as the subjunctive voice. They will learn how Spanish differs from

country to country. Spanish III has two major projects which involve the reading, interpretation and

presentation of Spanish literature from1900-present day authors, and will create portfolios to display

literary concepts obtained throughout the course.

Visual and Performing Arts

Talented Visual Arts (I-IV)


Prerequisite: Admittance to the Talented Visual Arts Program

Studio exploration and experiences in the elements and principles of visual design, using a variety of media,

to develop and broaden the student's demonstrated artistic skills, critical abilities, and creative talent.

Identification as a Talented in the Visual Arts student with a current IEP for individualized instruction is

required.

AP Studio Art


Prerequisite: Art I or Talented Art

The AP Studio Art Program consists of three portfolio exams—2-D Design, 3-D Design, and Drawing—

corresponding to the college foundation courses. Student chooses one portfolio for the course. Portfolios

allow flexibility of coursework while guiding students to produce college-level quality, artistic

investigation, and breadth of work. Students' portfolios demonstrate skills and ideas developed, refined, and

applied throughout the course to produce visual compositions. Students may choose to submit any or all of

the portfolios. Portfolios are evaluated based on standardized scoring descriptors aligned with skills and

understanding developed in college foundation courses.

Talented Theatre (I-IV)


Prerequisite: Admittance to the Talented Theatre Program

The Talented Theatre courses are developed for students who have tested into the Talented Theatre

Program and have a current IEP with a Theatre certification. Primary emphasis will be placed on the

development of acting technique through monologue work, scene study, and short play performance.

Through this source material, students can expect intense focus on moment to moment reality, subtext, and

'reactive' acting. From course to course, secondary emphases will involve script analysis, playwriting, and

improvisation. The Talented Theatre courses will serve as resource for Talented Theatre students. Any

student wishing to be tested for the Talented Theatre program should contact the theatre instructors for

more information.

Theatre Design & Technology


Prerequisite: None

The course introduces the student to the fundamental elements and principals of design and how they

apply to the theatre experience of scenery, costume and prop design. Students will create a vocabulary for

the discussion, appreciation and evaluation of theatrical design and contribution of theatre design and

designers to the experience of a theatre production. Students will work individually and collaboratively on

production design through practical application of resources and tools in the fabrication lab and design

technology.

Beginning Band


Prerequisite: None

This course is designed for students who may wish to learn to play a band instrument or students who are

in the early stages of instrumental music development. Basic playing fundamentals of tone, rhythm,

counting, and technique are emphasized. Students DO NOT need to have taken any accredited music

classes prior to enrollment in this course. Students completing this course are eligible for the more

advanced concert bands and marching band.

Intermediate Band


Prerequisite: Beginning Band or equivalent experience

This course is designed for students who desire to develop the skills acquired in beginning band. Students

will develop techniques needed for performing more challenging music. Students will have opportunity to

perform in solo, small group, and large band settings, and are eligible for District VI Honor Band Auditions.

Members of this band combine with other students to form the Taylor Tiger Band, and will actively

participate in school functions, one carnival parade, two annual concerts, and graduation. Maximum of four

hours per week, combined, are required outside the school day for individual (homework) and group

practice.

Advanced Band


Prerequisite: Intermediate Band

This course is designed for students who desire to develop mastery level skills in music performance.

Students will develop advanced techniques needed for performing very difficult and diverse genres of

music. Students will have opportunity to perform extensively in solo, small group, and large band settings.

Students will study marching techniques, solo/ensemble literature, and are eligible for District VI Honor

Band and Louisiana All-State Band auditions. Members of this band combine with other students to form

the Taylor Tiger Band, and will actively participate in school functions, one carnival parade, two annual

concerts, and graduation. Maximum of four hours per week, combined, are required outside the school day

for individual (homework) and group practice.

Technology

PowerSkills

PowerSkills is a sixth grade technology course that teaches computer literacy and digital citizenship, while

emphasizing 21st century skills, and supporting core subjects. Topics covered include:

· Echo (our school-wide learning management system)

· Digital Citizenship, including, but not limited to:

o Email Etiquette

o Copyright

o Cyber-security

o Cyber-safety

· Google Apps

· Microsoft Office

· Networks & the Internet

· Coding using SCRATCH

· App Development using Swift

· Introduction to the Fab Lab, including, but not limited to:

o Fab Lab Safety

o 3D Printing

· Introduction to Electronics using the Makey-Makey

Web Mastering


Prerequisite: None

The Web Mastering course is a project-based curriculum that teaches digital communication skills in the

context of the professional web design and development process, using Adobe Creative Cloud software. The

course develops four key skill areas:

· Project management and collaboration

· Design

· Research and communication

· Professional web-authoring tools

During the course, students will create a digital portfolio and work on the school web site http://pftsta.com,

among a variety of other projects.

http://pftsta.com/

Introduction to Computer Science


Prerequisite: Completion of or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 1

The Introduction to Computer Science Course is a general elective geared towards 9th-12th graders. The

class provides a solid foundation in object-oriented programming, using the Python programming language,

and prepares students for AP Computer Science A

· Students will code in text-based Python

· Includes lessons on careers in computer science focus

AP Computer Science Principles



The AP CS Principles course is a full year AP course geared towards 10th-12th graders. This course is the

College Board's newest AP program.

· 20% coding, 80% focused on CS applications through project-based, inquiry-based, and collaborative

learning. Exposes central ideas of computer science in a more general, broader context and explores the

impact computing and technology have on our society

· Students will code using the languages of Scratch and Processing

· Course is offered in partnership with the University of Texas-Austin's UTeach Institute's AP CSP program,

which has been endorsed by the College Board

AP Computer Science A – Java


Prerequisites: Algebra II and prior CS course are recommended

The AP CS A course is a full year AP course geared towards 11th & 12th graders.

· 100% Java coding

· Approved by the College Board

· Course content includes: video lessons, coding activities, and assessments

General Technology: Intro to Fab Lab (How to Make Almost Anything)


Prerequisites: None

Would you like to learn how to use state-of-the-art software and equipment to design, build and test almost

anything? In Fab Lab Intro-How to Make Almost Anything, computer-controlled fabrication technologies

such as 3D printers, lasers, CNC routers, vinyl cutters and milling machines will be used to transform

design and product ideas into a working products or prototypes. Students will explore many design

software and fabrication processes including engineering, science, mathematics, art, graphic design,

computer aided design (CAD), and electronics. This is a beginner level course to introduce students to

digital design and fabrication.

Computer Manufacturing and Design (CMAD)


Prerequisites: None

The primary objective of this course will be to introduce students to computer-aided design software and

computer- aided manufacturing software for numerically controlled (CNC) machine tools. This course will

cover computer-aided design as related to manufacturing and prototype development. Basic computer

design software such as (Autodesk Inventor and Adobe Illustrator) and computer numeric controlled

machines (including 3D printers, computer numeric controlled milling machines and routers, Laser

cutter/engravers, 3D scanners and more) will be discussed and introduced. Both basic two-dimensional and

three-dimensional design creation and editing techniques will be covered. Designs will be created and

prototypes will be fabricated. Successful end of course testing will result in a professional certification in

Autodesk Inventor.

LSU Dual Enrollment Introduction to Engineering

Credit: 2 College Course hours & 1 Carnegie Unit

Prerequisite: None

This course is designed to introduce the profession, ethics, and diversity of the field of engineering to

students in their first year of undergraduate study. The course will assist students to decide which of the

majors within LSU’s College of Engineering is best for them. These majors are: Biological Engineering,

Civil/Environmental Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Computer Engineering/ Electrical Engineering,

Computer Science, Construction Management, Industrial Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, and

Petroleum Engineering. Specifically, this course will emphasize that the engineer is a team worker who

needs strong skills in technical problem solving, engineering design, ethical decision making, and

communicating to diverse audiences. Major elements of the course include:

· The profession of engineering, its history, ethics and responsibilities.

· Team working on group assigned projects to cover the engineering majors.

· Communicating eloquently through verbal, visual, and written means.

Health & Physical Education

Physical Education

Credit: 1/2 or 1 Carnegie Unit

Prerequisite: None

All 8th graders must take P.E. All students must complete two years of P.E. during the high school years

(9th-12th). Physical education gives the students building blocks for good health: physical fitness and skills,

coordination, and good sportsmanship. Students will to learn to assess their own physical fitness and

maintain healthy levels of physical activity. They will learn new skills and improve performance, while

gaining the self-discipline to take part in individual and group activities. Students, who participate in

physical education activities on a regular basis, learn the benefits of that participation and value its

contribution to a healthy lifestyle.

Health Education

Credit: 1/2 Carnegie Unit

Prerequisite: None

All students must complete one semester of Health during the high school years (9th-12th). Health

education gives students the knowledge and skills to thrive physically, mentally, emotionally, and socially.

It will help the students to recognize the causes of ill health and to understand the benefits of prevention,

good hygiene, and appropriate medical care. Health education also includes a set of skills to help students to

be better aware of the decisions they face of conflicting messages, thus assisting them to live healthier lives.

Advanced Physical Education


Prerequisite: Junior or Senior with 2 Carnegie Units of P.E.

Advanced Physical Education promotes lifetime sport and recreational activities and provides an

opportunity for an in-depth study in specific areas. The student will participate in activities that include (1)

health-related fitness activities (cardiorespiratory endurance, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility

and body composition), (2) team sports, (3) individual or dual sports, (4) aquatics and (5) outdoor pursuits.

It includes the study of physical development concepts and principles of sport and exercise as well as

opportunities to develop or refine skills and attitudes that promote lifelong fitness. Students have the

opportunity to design and develop an appropriate personal fitness program that enables them to achieve a

desired level of fitness. Ongoing assessment includes both written and performance-based skill evaluations.

Advanced PE is open to Juniors or Seniors who have successfully completed two semesters of P.E. during

their high school career.

Documents

Contentschoice. Special emphasis is placed on grammar, usage, punctuation, and reading comprehension in relation to the PSAT, ACT, and Advanced Placement tests. Students should expect