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NORTH PLATTE HIGH SCHOOL

COURSE DESCRIPTION BOOK

2010-2011

NORTH PLATTE HIGH SCHOOL

1220 WEST 2ND STREET

NORTH PLATTE, NE 69101

PRINCIPAL’S OFFICE TELEPHONE

535-7105

SCHOOL FAX NUMBER

308-535-7111

COUNSELORS’ FAX NUMBER

308-696-3432

HIGH SCHOOL ADMINISTRATION

PRINCIPAL: MR. JIM WHITNEY

ASSOCIATE PRINCIPAL: MR. JAMES AYRES

DEAN OF STUDENTS: MR. JEFF STEINBECK

ACTIVITIES DIRECTOR: MR. RICH REINERT

HIGH SCHOOL COUNSELORS

MR. WES CARUSO A-G

MRS. MARY LYNN HORST H-N

MS. KERI HAMMOND O-Z

MRS. JOLENE PETTERA 9TH GRADE

MS. COLLEEN ASHBURN REGISTRAR

MRS. TERESA SCHUMACHER GUIDANCE SECRETARY

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

LETTER TO STUDENTS 3

SPECIAL REMINDERS 4

INDIVIDUAL PLAN OF ACTION 5

EXPLANATION OF GRADES 6

NPHS REQUIREMENTS 7

UNL-ADVANCED SCHOLARS 8

KEARNEY BOUND 9

UN CORE-COURSE REQUIREMENTS 10

NCAA 11

ART 12

BUSINESS/TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT 13

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE 15

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY 17

LANGUAGE ARTS 20

MATHEMATICS 22

MUSIC 24

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 25

SCIENCE 26

SOCIAL STUDIES 27

WORLD LANGUAGES 28

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Dear NPHS students:

This NPHS Course Description Handbook has been designed and prepared to assist you in

planning a full program of studies for the coming school year. With the assistance of teachers,

counselors, administrators, and your parents, you will be able to develop a balanced set of

courses which will allow you to fulfill your own educational needs, as well as to meet the

educational requirements set by the Board of Education necessary for graduation from high

school.

If you attended high school here last year, then you have already started this programming

process, and you are selecting those courses leading toward graduation. Your task now is to

carefully determine what you need to take during the 2010-2011 school year. If you are new to

NPHS, you are beginning the process of selecting an overall program of studies.

In either case, please take advantage of the diverse and comprehensive educational opportunities

which are available at North Platte High School! Whether you are going on to college or

university studies, to a vocational/technical school, military or entering the work force, we have

an outstanding list of courses from which you can choose.

The education which you receive at NPHS is extremely important, and it will form the

foundation for your future success. The entire high school faculty and staff are here to serve you.

If you need assistance of any kind as you consider your class options, please don’t hesitate to ask

for help!

Sincerely,

Jim Whitney, Principal

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SPECIAL REMINDERS

1. Classes, when successfully completed, will earn the student 5 credit hours per

semester.

2. Based on an 8 period day, freshman and sophomore students are required to be

enrolled in 7 classes per semester. Juniors are required to be enrolled in 6 classes

each semester. Seniors are required to be present on campus 6 periods each

semester; 5 of the 6 periods must be filled with classes and the 6th

may be a student

aide or study hall. Students dropping any class after the sixth week of the semester

may receive a failing grade in that class for the semester.

3. Students involved in athletics and/or activities must pass a minimum of four classes

each semester.

4. Spring registration is considered final. The NPHS Master Schedule of classes is

composed, teachers are assigned, rooms are assigned and supplies/materials are

purchased based upon the number of students registered for specific classes.

If schedule adjustments are to be made based on changes in career goals or

other legitimate reasons, those adjustments must occur before the beginning of the

semester in which the changes take place. In other words, semester 1 changes must

be completed BEFORE the beginning of semester 1 and semester 2 changes must be

completed BEFORE the beginning of semester 2.

5. Registration: Registration will take place in the spring of each year. Although

students will receive specific instructions during that time from high school

personnel, the responsibility for appropriate graduation and career choices rests

with the students and his/her parents. The counseling staff is available to assist in

making decisions related to course selections.

6. Students out of school for long-term care (long-term defined as 10 days or longer)

are responsible for taking their books with them.

7. Students leaving school, transferring, or dropping are responsible for properly

checking out of school and returning all of their books.

WARNING

Students, please note: If you do not sign up for courses which FULLY PREPARE

you for life after high school (i.e., college university work; vocational/technical skills;

military service) you are SEVERELY limiting your own ability to perform well in these

situations.

Don’t take the easy courses just to GET BY. Enroll in classes that will completely

empower you to reach your highest academic potential. Courses at N.P.H.S. may appear to

be difficult now, but they will be even more difficult when you must experience them in the

future.

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NORTH PLATTE HIGH SCHOOL

Individual Student Plan

SEMESTER 1 SEMESTER 2

Period 1

Period 2

Period 3

Period 4

Period 5

Period 6

Period 7

Period 8

RECOMMENDED CLASSES BY GRADE

9th

Grade 10th

Grade 11th

Grade 12th

Grade

English English English English

Math Math Math American Government

Physical Science Biology Science

Geography World History United States History

Basic Communications Healthy Lifestyles Rec Sports

Team Sports Fitness

Information Tech. App. 1

NPHS Counselors recommend any student planning to eventually attend a 4 year college/university complete

4 years of high school English and Math

3 years of Science and Social Studies

2 years of foreign language

The student should start taking the ACT sometime during their junior year.

A student should always check with his/her counselor about the SPECIFIC requirements for admission to individual

colleges or university.

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EXPLANATION OF GRADES

LETTER GRADE PERCENT GRADE

A 93-100 4.0

B 86-92 3.0

C 78-85 2.0

D 70-77 1.0

F 69-Below 0.0

No Credit is earned for the following: U=Unsatisfactory; NC=No Credit; WP=Withdraw

Passing; WF=Withdraw Failing; NG=No Grade; F=Failing; NP=No Pass.

Credit may be earned on a Pass/Fail basis for a maximum of two semesters or 10 credits during a

student’s high school career. Instead of a grade, the student would receive a “P” for Pass or “NP”

for Fail with no effect on grade point average.

Student Aide- a student may earn 2.5 credits, a “P” (Passing), for being a teacher/office aide.

Academic Intern may earn 5 credits.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CLASSES AND AP EXAMS

All Advanced Placement (AP) classes may be taken to fulfill high school graduation

requirements and to possibly receive college credit. In order to obtain college credit, the student

must take the Advanced Placement (AP) Examination required for each individual class and

obtain a score necessary to fulfill individual college requirements.

Dual Credit Classes are also available (Dual credit = high school and college credit). Both high

school and college credit may be earned concurrently.

*Check with your counselor for specific AP and dual credit courses offered and more information about each

option.

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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

CLASS OF: 2010+

ENGLISH 9 10 HOURS

BASIC COMMUNICATION 5 HOURS

ENGLISH 10 10 HOURS

ENGLISH 11 10 HOURS

ENGLISH 12 10 HOURS

PHYSICAL SCIENCE (9TH) 10 HOURS

BIOLOGY (10TH) 10 HOURS

SCIENCE ELECTIVE 10 HOURS

FRESHMAN MATH 10 HOURS

SOPHOMORE MATH 10 HOURS

MATH ELECTIVE 10 HOURS

GEOGRAPHY (9TH) 10 HOURS

WORLD HISTORY 10 HOURS

UNITED STATES HISTORY 10 HOURS

AMERICAN GOVERNMENT 5 HOURS

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS 1 5 HOURS

FINE ARTS/VOCATIONAL 15 HOURS

PHYSICAL EDUCATION 10 HOURS

HEALTHY LIFESTYLES/FITNESS 10 HOURS

ELECTIVES 65 HOURS

TOTAL CREDITS 245 HOURS

All credit must be earned in Grades 9 – 12

Students may work as a teacher’s/office aide to fill a particular semester, 2.5 credits per semester will be given for

such work. A student may earn a total of 10 credits as an aide. See specific course descriptions in this booklet for

details about individual class requirements and grade levels. Juniors and seniors may work as an academic intern.

5 credits per semester will be given for such work.

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UNIVERSITY OF

Nebraska Lincoln__________________________________________________ ADVANCED SCHOLARS

Dear Parent/Guardian of a Student in High Academic Standing,

North Platte High School (NPHS) and the University of Nebraska-Lincoln (UNL) are pleased to

announce Advanced Scholars, an exciting program which extends online UNL college courses to

top high school students. Based on your student’s grades and academic maturity, your student is

eligible to participate in Advanced Scholars.

Through a partnership between UNL and NPHS, Advanced Scholars allows your student to earn

college credit while still in high school. This partnership means your high school is offering

select students like yours a chance to experience the rigors of college coursework, stay

challenged academically, and get a head start on their college career. The online courses are

general education courses typically taken by college freshman on the UNL campus and are

taught by University faculty. Students who register for and successfully complete Advanced

Scholars online courses earn UNL credit, verified by an official transcript.

By earning college credit during high school, students can get a head start on their undergraduate

degree and have more flexibility in choosing courses their first year on campus. Advanced

Scholars also exposes high school students to many of the same experiences they’ll encounter as

freshmen. This allows students to become familiar with a university system while still in the high

school environment, easing their transition to college.

Students participating in the Advanced Scholars program pay a one-time application fee to the

University of Nebraska. Should your student decide to apply to the University as a regular

undergraduate they will not need to pay the application fee again. And while students on the

UNL campus pay $187 per credit hour plus fees, Advanced Scholars courses are $100 per credit

hour, with no additional University fees.

You may visit the Advanced Scholars website http://AdvancedScholars.unl.edu or contact Keri

Hammond in the North Platte High School Counselor’s office for more information.

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KEARNEY BOUND

A partnership with the University of Nebraska at Kearney and selected Nebraska high schools

Objective To identify new high school students from families who

meet the Federal government’s criteria for participation in

TRIO programs and who also show academic promise; and

to partner with the high school to maximize their

opportunities for graduation from the University of

Nebraska at Kearney.

Student Selection In early spring of the freshmen year, a maximum of 15

students from selected high schools will be selected. A

committee composed of high school personnel, in

consultation with UNK staff, will review available

information and select participants using the following

criteria:

Demonstrated academic promise, ability, and

motivation to participate

First-generation college prospect (neither parent

has a bachelor’s degree; or if single parent, the

single parent does not have a bachelor’s degree)

Nebraska resident and must have social security

number

Parental commitment to have the child participate

Potential to be Pell Grand eligible

High School Program The participating high school will provide:

Directed advising

Tutoring

Mentoring

Transportation to UNK for motivational

experiences and exposure to opportunities here

on campus (2-3 times a year)

Professional staff member to direct high school’s

involvement and to be liaison with UNK staff

Fee waivers for first ACT (no later than April of

Junior year)

UNK will provide Professional staff member to direct UNK’s

involvement and be liaison with the high school

On-campus programming designed to motivate

the students to earn a University degree

UNK courses offered to students during their

senior year at a reduced tuition rate

Assistance with financial aid, scholarship, and

financial planning sessions for students and

parents

College Program Directed academic and career advising

Tutoring

Mentoring

Guaranteed financial aid coverage for direct cost

of attendance (tuition, fees, room, board, and

books)

Requirements for Continuation in Program

While in High School: Students will be required to complete the core

courses identified by UNK for admission to the

University. The required courses include: 3 years of mathematics: 2 years of algebra plus

geometry

4 years of college-prep English

3 years of science

3 years of social studies

2 years of the same foreign language

1 year of an academic core elective (preferably a

4th year of math)

In addition to completing a course of study that meets the

UNK Admission requirements, these college preparatory

students will:

Complete the PLAN (pre-ACT) in their

sophomore year

Maintain a minimum overall grade point average

of a 2.85 and a minimum 2.5 in the core courses.

Students who fail to meet these grade

requirements at the end of the sixth semester will

be dismissed from the program

Enroll in a ACT prep course provided by the high

school prior to senior year

Register for ACT three times starting no later

than April of the junior year (ACT waivers will

be provided to those eligible for one exam)

Students in this program will be expected to earn at least

three credit hours of college coursework during their senior

year of high school.

While attending UNK the students will:

Earn a 2.000 grade-point average each academic

year while taking a minimum of 12 credit-hours a

semester

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TY O

UNIVERSITY OF NEBRASKA CORE-COURSE REQUIREMENTS

CATEGORY UNITS

(4) UNIVERSITY-WIDE REQUIREMENTS

English 4 units

All units must include intensive reading and writing experiences.

Innovative interdisciplinary courses and courses in speech and

journalism may be substituted if they include substantial amounts of

reading and writing. Mathematics 3 units Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry (5)

Social Studies 3 units

1 unit drawn from American and/or world history; 1 additional unit

drawn from history, American government and/or geography; and a

third unit drawn from any social science discipline.

Natural Sciences 3 units

At least 2 units selected from biology, chemistry, physics and earth

sciences. 1 of the above units must include laboratory instruction.

Foreign Language 2 units Both units must be in the same language (6)

UNK UNL UNO

Additional

Academic

Requirements

1 unit 1 unit chosen from Mathematics: 1 additional 1 unit chosen

from

any academic Unit that builds on a Any academic

discipline. Knowledge of algebra. (7) discipline.

TOTAL UNITS 16 units 16 units 16 units 16 units

In addition to the above requirements, a student applicant must complete high school in the

upper ½ of her/his class or score 20 or higher on the ACT.

(4) A unit is a Carnegie Unit, comprising high school study for a period of one year. Equivalent requirements

or competencies may be substituted, with the approval of the appropriate University Campus.

(5) Students seeking admission to UNL will be required to complete an additional unit of mathematics (see

footnote 7 below).

(6) Students who are unable to take two years of foreign language in high school may still qualify for

admission. Such students will be required to take two semesters of foreign language at the University of

Nebraska. These students are still required to complete 16 units of academic courses for admission.

(7) It is not required that all students seeking entry to UNL take a trigonometry or pre-calculus course for

their fourth unit of mathematics.

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NCAA ATHLETIC ELIGIBILITY

All students planning to enroll in college as a freshman and wanting to participate in Division l or Division ll athletics must

be certified by the NCAA Eligibility Center (formerly called the NCAA Clearinghouse). The Eligibility Center was

established to ensure consistent application of NCAA initial-eligibility requirements for all prospective student athletes at all

member institutions. It is the responsibility of the prospective student athlete to make sure the Eligibility Center has the

documents it needs to certify his/her eligibility.

DIVISION I DIVISION II

16 CORE-COURSE RULE 14 CORE-COURSE RULE

16 Core Courses: 14 Core Courses:

4 years of English 3 years of English.

3 years of mathematics 2 years of mathematics

(Algebra I or higher). (Algebra I or higher).

2 years of natural/physical 2 years of natural/physical

science (1 year of lab if science (1 year of lab if offered

offered by high school). by high school).

1 year of additional English, 2 years of additional English,

mathematics or natural/ mathematics or natural/

physical science. physical science.

2 years of social science 2 years of social science

4 years of additional courses 3 years of additional courses

(from any area above, foreign (from any area above, foreign

language or non-doctrinal language or non-doctrinal

religion/philosophy). religion/philosophy

TEST SCORES

Division I has a sliding scale for test score and grade-point average.

Division II has a minimum SAT score requirement of 820 or an ACT sum score of 68.

All SAT and ACT scores must be reported directly to the NCAA Eligibility Center by the testing agency. Test scores

that appear on transcripts will not be used. When registering for the SAT or ACT, use the Eligibility Center code

9999 to make sure the score is reported to the Eligibility Center.

GRADE-POINT AVERAGE

Only core courses are used in the calculation of the grade-point average.

Division I has as sliding scale for grade- point average and test scores.

Division II grade-point average requirement is a minimum of 2.000.

REGISTRATION PROCESS

A student may register with the NCAA Eligibility Center at any time during his/her high school years.

However, it is recommended the student apply prior to taking the ACT or SAT exam. Additional information is

available at

www.ncaa.org.

The registration process is easy and can be done by:

1. Logging on to the Eligibility Center’s new Web site at www.eligibilitycenter.org;

2. Selecting the “Fall 2010 or After” icon;

3. Selecting the “New Account” tab at the top of the screen; and

4. Beginning the registration process

All prospective student-athletes need to work with their guidance counselors and carefully plan their schedules each

year to ensure NCAA eligibility. The NCAA eligibility rules and list of acceptable courses often change. It is the

responsibility of the student to seek out the necessary information to make course selection decisions

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ART DEPARTMENT

The mission of the Art Department is to cultivate intellectual abilities and creative expression in the development of

the whole person. The artistic scale of visualizing, observing, analyzing, reasoning, interpreting, evaluating, and

producing will be covered. Our mission is one of providing learning experiences to individuals, which develop

discriminative producers and audiences of art.

ART 1 - LEVEL 1 Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Requirements: $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook

This course is considered an introductory class and is a prerequisite to other art classes. This course is designed to

cover basic art fundamentals, the elements & principles of design and art history. Originality of design, creative self-

expression, and the development of objective and decisive thought processes are greatly stressed in this foundations

course. This is truly a foundation course and can be taken by anyone regardless of his or her drawing ability.

ART II - LEVEL 2 Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Art I, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook

This class is considered a level two class. Art II is a prerequisite for all level 3 and 4 classes. Students will be

expected to strive toward greater quality of craftsmanship, originality and creativity of design and as greater degree

of self-expression in all of their projects. This course is an intense study of drawing skills and various drawing

techniques; preparing the Art II student for the upper-level courses that require a sound foundation of correct

proportioning, line/shape relationships, accurate sketching and drawing abilities, use of the elements and principles

of art and design, color theory and critiquing abilities. Quizzes and test will be part of this course as well as a major

drawing project.

PRINTMAKING – ART LEVEL 3 Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Art I and Art II, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook (Offered every other year)

This is an advanced course of study in the art of printmaking. Various printmaking techniques and the history

thereof will be studied, analyzed and practiced. Students will be introduced to printmaking artists’ backgrounds and

the development of their craft; cultivating and appreciation for its unique qualities. Class discussion, comparative

studies, production and critique will be the focal points of this course.

PAINTING I – ART LEVEL 3 Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Art I and Art II, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook

This is a beginning painting course which will focus on the control of and the “temperament” of various painting

mediums. Students’ ability to manipulate a variety of painting mediums will be key in their success in this course of

study. Technique studies will be the majority of their works and the foremost in their progress; however, any major

projects will be decided upon and dependent upon the aptitude of the individual student.

PAINTING II – ART LEVEL 4 Grades 11 – 12 1 Semester

Requirements: Art I, Art II and Painting I, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook

This course is designed for students that have completed Painting I and have made a decision to progress to more

advanced course of study in this medium. This course is designed to be a precursor to college painting courses.

Various painting mediums will be incorporated as well as various styles and techniques. Students will be given

assignments from both the realistic realm and abstract. Upon their own self-discoveries, students will make

decisions regarding production of an individual major project. An adept degree of craftsmanship, creativity, personal

style and finished product will be stressed.

CERAMICS 1 – ART LEVEL 3 Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Art I and Art II, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook

The ceramic students will complete a survey of ceramic history and the study of ceramic production, glazes, related

chemistry and components. A proficiency in the major constructions methods will be required. A working

knowledge of ceramic terminology, the processes, operations and aesthetics will be stressed.

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CERAMICS II– ART LEVEL 4 Grades 11-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Art I, Art II and Ceramics I, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook

This Ceramics class is intended for the serious art student who has a greater than normal interest in further pursuing

the visual arts. Mastery of technical and mechanical execution is emphasized. Projects will involve more

complicated clay construction methods and processes. Examples; pulling handles, making sets of pottery, more in-

depth ceramic construction, glaze components and other design finishes for ceramics.

SCULPTURE I – ART LEVEL 3 Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Art I and Art II, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook

This course will provide the student with competence and processes to creatively express themselves in a three-

dimensional manner. A refined quality of craftsmanship and execution will be stressed. This studio class will cover

major methods of three-dimensional construction with various media surrounding a historical survey of sculpture.

MULTIMEDIA – ART LEVEL 3 Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Art I and Art II, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook (Offered every other year)

Multimedia is a class designed for students to experience media processes not offered in other art classes. Example

of mediums offered to students: textiles, fiber, weaving, papermaking, book making, architecture; including

gargoyles. Art history, Aesthetics, Critique Scanning, Elements and Principals of Design and Color Theory will be

taught. A higher degree of originality, craftsmanship and creativity is expected.

ADVANCED DRAWING – LEVEL 3 Grades 10 –12 1 Semester

Requirements: Art 1 and Art II, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook

This class will be an advanced study of traditional and contemporary techniques and styles in drawing. Various

drawing mediums will be studied and incorporated into the students’ repertoire of drawing and sketching artworks.

Study will include figuration, portraiture, landscape and general illustration. Students will learn to further understand

the elements and principles of art and design and required to effectively incorporate them into their own works. The

use of notes, video, observed demonstrations, comparative studies and critique will enhance this ability. Student

performance and projects will be evaluated according to skill, creativity, individuality and “professional” outcome.

*Note: This in an intense/”advanced” course and geared toward those students who are inclined to continue their

secondary education in the visual arts.

ADVANCED ART STUDY Grade 12 1 Semester

*Instructor’s Permission

Requirements: Art I, Art II and other level 5 Art Classes, $15.00 Art Fee and Sketchbook

Advanced Placement is a one-semester class offered to senior art students. This is designed for highly motivated and

high interest art students. Emphasis will be placed on originality, craftsmanship and aesthetics. The course

objectives will be created with an individual student-instructor contract. College bound students may focus on a

portfolio

BUSINESS/TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT

The mission of the Business Education Department is to assist students in developing and applying the use of

technology, business and economic concepts, and legal principles essential for all persons. Business Education

students will acquire the necessary skills for personal use and entry-level employment and post-secondary education.

Membership in FBLA is strongly encouraged.

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS 1 Grades 9-12 1 Semester

This course is designed to improve the student’s word processing skills, as well as to introduce the students to basic

spreadsheet and database functions. Students will also create documents using desktop publishing features and

create slide presentations using Power Point.

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INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONS 2 Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Requirement: Information Technology Applications 1

This course is designed to give students an opportunity to spend more time learning about applications software

including: spreadsheet, database, presentation and word processing. If time allows a unit on desktop publishing will

also be included. How to use application software to perform tasks that will benefit students in their daily lives, both

at work and home, will be the primary focus of this course. Students will begin to learn ways to make the software

“ do the work for them” and not the other way around. Students who plan to further their education by attending any

type of college would find it beneficial to take this course.

DIGITAL MEDIA Grades 9 – 12 1 Semester

Requirement: Information Technology Applications 1

In this course, students will create projects that incorporate graphics, text, color, animation, and video. The course is

divided into three main sections: (1) creating slide show presentations, (2) creating web pages, and (3) creating

movies

ADVANCED DIGITAL MEDIA Grades 10 – 12 1 Semester

Requirement: Digital Media

This course is designed for those students who want to advance their skills in the areas of web design and digital

editing (photo and video). Students will design, create and produce a wide variety of digital media products and web

elements.

WEB PAGE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT 1 Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Requirement: Digital Media

The field of Web Design is one that to be truly successful involves understanding of not just software, but also

concepts related to creating a final product that achieves the goals for which it was meant. This course will introduce

students to concepts such as usability as well as the elements and principles of design so they can work towards

making Web-based projects that would be considered effective on a professional level. Throughout this course

students will also practice creating projects using HTML and CSS programming.

WEB PAGE DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENT II Grades 10-12 1 or 2 Semesters

Requirement: Grade of C or better in Web Page Design and Development I or Instructor’s Permission

This course is designed to provide students with an opportunity to continue to develop their skills and knowledge

within the area of Web Design. Students will have the opportunity to develop their own independent projects as well

as maintain and create pages for the NPHS website. Students will also learn how to create basic animation projects.

A significant portion of this class involves students checking with activity coaches and sponsors to get information

for the school website. These tasks are generally expected to be performed either before or after school.

INTRODUCTION TO BUSINESS, MARKETING AND MANAGEMENT Grades 9-10 1 Semester

The world of business is full of many issues and topics that are important for students to learn about and discuss

while they are still in high school. Students who leave high school with skills such as managing a checking account,

budgeting money based on income and knowing the basics about how to credit works, will be much better prepared

for success. This course will provide students a basic understanding of topics they will deal with throughout their

lives.

ACCOUNTING Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

This course provides a thorough background in the basic accounting procedures used to operate a business. The use

of the multi-column journal approach will also serve as a solid background for employment in office jobs and

preparation for studying accounting courses in college. Students will study the accounting cycle for sole-

proprietorship and partnerships. (Coursework is completed on-line.)

ADVANCED ACCOUNTING Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Accounting

This course expands on topics learned in the first-year accounting course while introducing new topics. Students

understanding of the principles and concepts of double-entry accounting will be expanded as they study the

accounting cycle for a departmentalized business. (Coursework is completed on-line.)

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MARKETING Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

This course is a foundational course in economics and marketing. Students will learn about the laws of supply and

demand, scarcity of resources, types of economies, trends in retailing, understanding consumers, receiving and

pricing merchandise, the promotional mix, selling, and inventory control.

PERSONAL FINANCE Grades 11–12 1 Semester

Students will acquire basic business knowledge and math skills for making “real life” financial decisions and

solving problems in the areas of wages, budgets, taxes, banking and household purchases. Students will practice

making good money decisions through “real life” applications.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN FOR DUAL CREDIT.

BUSINESS LAW Grades 10-12 1 Semester

This course is designed to help students develop an appreciation for law and to gain a practical understanding of the

legal framework within which individuals function. Included in this study are such topics as contracts, crimes, the

court system, commercial paper, juvenile law and insurance. This course is not designed to prepare students to

practice law, but to allow students to gain a basic understanding of their rights and responsibilities necessary to be

informed and productive citizens, employees, employers and consumers in the free enterprise system.

MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY Grades 10-12 1 Semester

This course is designed to equip the student with a usable vocabulary unique to the medical profession. The student

will be able to define and us terms relating to the structure of the human body, the skeletal, muscular,

cardiovascular, lymphatic and immune, respiratory, digestive, urinary, nervous, the eyes and ears, integumentary,

endocrine, and reproductive systems, diagnostic and imaging procedures and general medical terminology.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN FOR DUAL CREDIT.

WORKPLACE READINESS Grade 12 1 or 2 Semesters

*Students must be employed part-time to enroll in this course. Students must attend a class during the

first week of both quarters.

Students will be provided with the skills to meet the challenges and changes of the workplace. They will focus on

teamwork, self–management, problem solving, and job seeking skills. During the first week of the semester, each

student must provide the instructor with a letter from their employer verifying their employment. In addition,

students will attend a class during the first week of both quarters of the semester they are enrolled. (Example: If a

student is enrolled for the entire year, they will have to attend four classes-one for each quarter.)

FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCES DEPARTMENT

The Mission of the Family and Consumer Science Department is to provide an opportunity for students to identify

the problems and concerns of society, family, and the individual and to provide practical experiences in decision-

making skills that will enable them to assume responsible adult roles in society.

INTRODUCTION TO HUMAN SERVICES AND RESOURCES Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Students will experience how the concepts of communication, ethics, leadership and teamwork relate to Human

Services and Resources Career Field. Students will consider these concepts as applied to their multiple roles of

family member, wage earner and citizens. Clusters to be explored in this career field are: (1) Human Services, (2)

Education and Training, (3) Law, Public Safety and Security, and (4) Government and Public Administration. This

course is designed to incorporate FCCLA projects.

HEALTHY LIFESTYLES Grade 10 1 Semester

Students will be given the opportunity to acquire accurate health information which will enable them to develop

healthful attitudes and behavior patterns for a healthy lifestyle. A holistic approach of physical, mental and social

health topics will be presented including communicable and non-communicable disease, healthful eating habits,

stress management, substance use and abuse, and human sexuality.

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INTRODUCTION TO HEALTH & MEDCIAL CAREERS/SCIENCE Grades-10-12 1 Semester

Students will be given the opportunity to explore career options in the medical/health care industry from entry level,

through professional level. This course is designed to prepare potential health care workers to become effective and

efficient, multi-skilled medical/health care team members. The ethical, legal and professional considerations

involved in health occupations will be explored. Guest speakers and local healthcare professionals will be invited to

share their career expertise, in order to assist the students in making informed decisions regarding their

vocational/professional future. Field trips to local clinic settings and the hospital will also be a part of the course.

First aid, CPR and HIPPA certification are all a part of this course.

BASIC FOODS Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Requirement: $10.00 Food Fee

Basic Foods is a lab-oriented class where students will make informed decisions in the areas of food selection,

preparation and purchasing. Students will learn basic food preparation techniques for grain products, fruits,

vegetables, dairy products, and high protein foods. Students will study and compare nutritional value, taste, cost and

quality of foods. An organization of a personal recipe collection and home cooking experience will be included.

CULINARY ESSENTIALS/ADVANCED FOODS Grades 11 – 12 1 Semester

Requirements: Completion of Basic Foods or Instructors Permission and $10.00 Food Fee

This course is for the student who has a strong understanding of food preparation skills and the desire to further

enhance their culinary knowledge through lab experiences. This course introduces students to the essential

knowledge and skills needed to become an asset to the food service industry. The following topics will be covered:

customer service, safety and sanitation practices, equipment usage, nutrition principles, quantity food preparations

and specialty food techniques.

CAREERS Grades 10-12 1 Semester

This class will assist students in examining their skills, aptitudes and abilities and will help them identify career

options. Students will be given various assessments to help them with career decisions. Students will examine some

of the basic requirements of any job including designing a resume, cover letter and follow–up letter as well as

practice interview skills. Job shadowing experiences will be required to obtain a more realistic understanding of

their career choice.

INTERIOR DESIGN Grades 9-12 or Permission 1 Semester

This course allows students with art ability to design living environments to meet the needs of people. The course

would offer students exposure to related careers in interior design such as architecture, construction management,

and real estate. Students will be encouraged to think creatively and apply design principles and elements. Topics

which may be included are creativity, house and furniture design, and selecting background units (walls, floors,

window treatments). Field trips will be used to enhance the classroom instruction and projects when time allows. A

final design project will be required.

INDEPENDENT LIVING Grades 10-12 or Permission 1 Semester

A comprehensive course designed to prepare students for making decisions for their future, being life-long learners

and living independently. The responsibilities of being independent and managing resources are emphasized.

This course will include finding a place to live, nutrition and meal planning, preparing quick healthy meals, making

informed consumer decisions related to buying a car, analyzing insurance needs, money management, credit, cost of

finance, checking accounts, savings accounts, and personal record keeping.

ADULT LIVING AND FAMILY RELATIONSHIPS Grades 10–12 1 Semester

The focus of this class is to understand your role in your family now and in the future. You will develop skills to

build a stronger, healthy family unit by learning ways to improve your communication and decision making skills.

Techniques for coping with crisis and building positive relationships with family and friends throughout the life

cycle will be explored. Emphasis will be placed on the social, emotional and intellectual growth that influences

relationships with family members.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Child Development helps the student understand and accept responsibility for one’s own actions in relation to

decisions about the choice of parenting as well as understanding the relationship between learning about children

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and being a nurturing parent. Units include: kinds of parents, making decisions about parenting, parenting options

including adoption and abortion, pregnancy and birth defects. We study the infant and toddler years covering the

physical, mental, social and emotional development of the child. A play school for 2-3 and 4 year old children may

be included in this study.

INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY DEPARTMENT

The Mission of the Industrial Technology Department at North Platte High School is to provide both vocational and

career opportunities for students in their preparation for life. These opportunities, from one semester to eight

semesters of exposure, will enable the student to obtain an appreciation for technological, industrial and

informational opportunities in life. Membership in Skills USA is highly encouraged.

SMALL ENGINE MECHANICS Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Requirements: $10.00 Fee; Students will be required to purchase parts as needed.

This course will include theory, maintenance and overhaul of air-cooled engines. Units covered include theory,

overhaul, ignition, fuel and maintenance. Students will have the opportunity to do tune up and repair a small engine.

AUTO MECHANICS 1 Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

NOTE: For 10th

grade students, who have a driver’s license/school permit

Requirements: $10.00 Lab Fee. Student will be required to purchase parts as needed. Small Engines

recommended.

Auto 1 is for young men and women wanting to learn about the car they drive. Students will have both class and lab

activities in order to maintain and repair automobiles. Students will learn how to properly buy and sell cars. This

course will include general service, wheels and tires, suspension and steering basics, transmission basics, starting

and charging diagnosis, lighting and fuse repair. General repair worries are over when you do well in Auto 1.

*Automotive credit at MPCC may be available for completion of this course.

AUTO MECHANICS 2 Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Auto 1 and a $10.00 Lab Fee. Students are to purchase parts as needed.

Auto 2 is for young men and women wanting to repair automobiles both new and old. Students will explore all areas

of the automobile. You will learn how new cars operate and apply these concepts to what you drive. You will repair

electronic ignitions, brakes, and even onboard computers with confidence. You will perform tune-ups, starter and

alternator overhaul, and replace suspension parts.

*Automotive credit at MPCC may be available for the completion of this course.

AUTO MECHANICS 3 Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Auto 2 and a $10.00 Lab Fee. Students are to purchase parts as needed.

*A student wishing to drop the class at term must reassemble the school’s engine before dropping the class and

receiving the term grade earned.

Auto 3 is for young men and women wanting to repair automobiles both new and old. Students will repair their own

cars, explore automatic transmissions and transaxle repair, and overhaul an automobile engine. A lab engine will be

provided for you to overhaul.

*Automotive credit at MPCC may be available for completion of this course.

AUTO MECHANICS 4 Grades 11 & 12 2 Terms (Class can be repeated)

*Instructor’s Permission

Requirements: Auto2, Auto 3 and a $10.00 Lab Fee. Students purchase parts as needed.

*Students must complete both terms to receive credit.

Auto 4 is for young men and women considering a career in mechanics. The student will work independently on live

car work with the shop manual as the textbook for this class. Students will find the Auto 4 program an active in

depth study of the entire vehicle including the engine, chassis and electrical systems. The action packed training

program allows students to properly understand and repair the automobile steering and suspension systems. Live

car repair will direct the area of study the student will pursue. Students will perform such operations as front wheel

alignment and diagnosis and repair of the electrical system. They will also troubleshoot and repair onboard

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computer systems using their technical skills. Emphasis will be placed on technical knowledge, workmanship,

following shop manual procedures, accuracy in measuring, proper assembly and task completion.

ELECTRICITY Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Pre-Algebra or enrolled in Algebra 1–2 and a $10.00 Lab Fee to be paid in the first two

weeks of class.

Electricity is designed to introduce the student to the fundamental principles of electricity. Included in the course are

the following passive electrical components: Laboratory safety, symbol identification, sources of electricity; passive

current circuits, in series, parallel and combination circuits. The related physical laws and theorems governing

electricity, instrumentation, and lab project construction are also included. Students may, if they desire, construct

(electrical) projects at their own expense.

ELECTRONICS Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Algebra 1-2, Electricity and a $10.00 Lab Fee to be paid in the first two weeks.

Electronics is a class designed for the student to explore the field of electronics. Included within the framework of

the course are the following areas: active component use with their symbol and circuit configurations; signal

generation and amplification circuits in the first semester; digital circuitry with its related gating circuits and

Boolean Algebra in the second semester. The laws and theorems governing the beginning of the field of electronics

form the basis of this course. A project may be built by the student within his ability and at his own cost. Lab

materials will be supplied, but project materials are to be supplied by the student at their own expense.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN AS DUAL CREDIT.

RESIDENTIAL WIRING Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Requirement: Electricity and a $10.00 Lab Fee to be paid in the first two weeks of the class.

Residential wiring is a course where the fundamental circuits found in the home are constructed, tested, and trouble

shot. The course is based upon the most recent National Wiring Codes. This course is taught from the stand point

that each student will eventually own or rent a home.

ADVANCED STUDY OF ELECTRICITY, ELECTRONICS OR RESIDENTIAL WIRING 1 Semester

*Instructor’s Permission Grades 11-12

Requirement: Electricity, Algebra 1-2 and $10.00 Lab Fee to be paid by the first two weeks of class.

Additional cost for projects will be the responsibility of the student.

Advanced Study of Electricity, Electronics or Residential Wiring are courses designed for the student to explore the

field of Electricity, Electronics or Residential Wiring and to begin the process of gaining additional knowledge and

skills within the field. The student will produce a contract outlining the area of study and skill and a notebook of

times to be acquired with approval of his instructor. This course may be used by the student to prepare for Skills

USA competition. This contract will be signed by the student, his parents, the instructor, the principal and the

student’s counselor. Repair or project construction work will be expected of the student within his ability and with

the approval of the instructor as part of the contract.

Grading: The student will be asked to report weekly on his progress and keep a note book of all the work

accomplished. His weekly reporting and notebook recording will be the basis for course evaluation as it relates to

the contract. The students performance in and on the area of study will determine the students grade.

ENGINEERING DRAWING 1 Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Engineering Drawing is a beginning drafting class designed to help the student become familiar with drafting tools

and the techniques involved in using these tools in making drawings that are used in industry today. This class

would be beneficial to anyone involved in occupations that require knowledge of drawing and blueprint reading.

Areas studied are drafting tools, multi-view drawing, isometric drawing, lettering, dimensioning, blueprint reading

and computer aided drafting.

COMPUTER AIDED DESIGN and DRAWING Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Computer Aided Design (CADD) will allow the student to develop both skill and speed drawing on a computer.

AutoCad is used and it is the system being used at most colleges and technical schools. Hard copies of the drawings

are made by plotting them on a plotter. There are many opportunities in the technological industries for those who

have knowledge and skill in Computer Aided Design.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN AS DUAL CREDIT.

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ENGINEERING DRAWING II, III Grades 9-12 1,2 or 3 Semesters

Requirement: Engineering Drawing I

Highly Recommended: Computer Aided Design and Drawing

* This is an individualized class and the student will be placed at the appropriate level.

Advanced Engineering Drawing is a continuation of Engineering Drawing 1. This class will progress through

additional drafting units increasing in complexity as skills and knowledge are developed. Each successive term adds

depth to experiences gained previously. Each semester is designed to be independently administered. These units of

study are beneficial to anyone entering careers requiring knowledge of mechanical drafting such as the drafting,

engineering and design fields. Units include sketching, oblique drawing, sectional drawings, auxiliaries,

architectural drafting, sheet metal drawings and Computer Aided Drafting. Additional units cover tolerancing,

threads, pictorial drawings, design and working drawings. A portfolio is to be developed as evidence of work

achieved.

ARCHITECTURAL DRAFTING Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Engineering Drawing & Computer Aided Design & Drawing and a $10.00 Lab Fee to be

paid in the first two weeks.

This beginning architectural class is for those students who would like to explore the area of architectural design and

drafting. The student will study individual room design, sketch, and make drawings of selected rooms. Students will

also design a home and make a complete set of architectural plans which may include: the floor, foundation,

electrical, plumbing, heating, sections, elevations, and other plans according to specifications from the instructor.

Additional knowledge and experience will include room design, home planning, building codes and computer aided

drafting “CAD”. This is taught from the standpoint that each student will eventually become a homebuyer or home-

owner. Also this class is designed for students going into architecture or related fields.

METALS MANUFACTURING Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Requirement: $15.00 Fee

Metals is a course covering the very basics of metalworking. Units covered in this course include: metal

identification, welding (stick, mig, oxyfuel), cutting (oxyfuel, plasma), heat treating, safety and use of various tools.

You also have the opportunity to build a small project.

WELDING MANUFACTURING 1 Grades 10-12 2 Semester

Requirement: $20.00 Fee

The Welding Technology program provides students with training in current welding practices and procedures.

Instruction covers operations in SMAW (stick), GMAW (mig), GTAW (tig), OAW (oxyacetylene), and FCAW

(flux core). Skills will be developed in the use of the machine and hand cutting operations utilizing the process of

Plasma, Arc Air, and Oxyfuel cutting. In addition, students will learn about manufacturing, CNC milling,

metallurgy, fundamentals of testing the strength of materials, measurements and layouts, joint design, blueprint

reading, symbols, and the latest in technology advancements. Also students will have the opportunity to build

projects and do repair work.

WELDING MANUFACTURING 2 Grades 1-12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Completion of Welding 1 and a $20.00 Fee

This is an advanced technology course with most of the welding being done out of position on such metals as steel,

aluminum, stainless steel and cast iron. Some of the welding processes incorporated will include stick, mig, tig and

oxyfuel welding. Related areas will include manufacturing, CNC mill and plasma, computers programming, safety,

and career opportunities. A project will be encouraged that will include the latest technology, creativity, and

problem solving. Skills USA will also be included in the curriculum.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN FOR DUAL CREDIT.

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WELDING MANUFACTURING 3 Grades 11-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Permission of the Instructor and a $15.00 Fee

*This class must be individually arranged with the instructor.

This course is to be structured to extend the study and skill development of the student who is expressing the interest

and skills to consider beginning career steps in the welding manufacturing area. Some of the welding processes

incorporated will include SMAW, GMAW, GTAW and OAW. Students will be able to perform entry level skills in the

welding field after completing this course.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN FOR DUAL CREDIT.

WOOD MANUFACTURING 1 Grades 9-12 1 Semester

Requirement: $10.00 Fee

This is a beginning (entry level) course in woodworking. This course provides a working foundation for the courses

of Wood Manufacturing 2 and Construction . Hand, portable power, and stationary power tools will be studied and

utilized. Using a variety of teaching techniques and student activities, the student will become more competent in the

areas of basic woodworking knowledge and skills used for basic woodworking and general employability skills.

Students are required to pay for materials used in personal projects.

WOOD MANUFACTURING 2 Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Wood Manufacturing 1 and a $10.00 Fee

This class deals primarily with furniture construction and cabinet making and extends employability skills. Tools

introduced in Woods 1 will be utilized to a greater extent. Students enrolled in this course should have successfully

completed Woodworking 1 or Construction Tech. If you successfully complete Woods 2 for credit, you are eligible

to participate in Wood Manufacturing 3. Students are required to pay for materials used in their projects.

CONSTRUCTION Grades 11 – 12 1 Semester (Double Class Period)

Requirement: Wood Manufacturing 1This course is designed to expose students to a variety of domestic

and commercial construction techniques. Areas of study: construction tools, materials, processed (both modern and

traditional), and safety. The course will provide a foundation for a student interested in job entry as well as a student

interested in further training in construction.

WOOD MANUFACTURING 3 Grades 10-12 1 or 2 Semesters

Requirements: Course of Wood Manufacturing 1 and 2

*This class must be individually arranged with the instructor.

This course intended to independently extend the knowledge base and skill level of the student who is or has

expressed the interest in a career in this area. High level project work will be expected and may be in the areas of

construction, cabinet making or related career fields.

LANGUAGE ARTS DEPARTMENT

The mission of the Language Arts Department curriculum is to provide, through required, sequential and elective

offerings, the development of basic reading, writing, and speaking skills, as well as the practice and the mastery of

those same skills. These courses are designed to meet the requirements of the NE standards.

ENGLISH 9 Grade 9 2 Semesters

This course offers students greater opportunities for the study of literary terms as they apply to themes in literature,

research, expository writing, vocabulary enhancement and improvement of study skills. A research project is

required for this course to address the NE State Standards.

BASIC COMMUNICATION Grade 9 1 Semester

This course will provide instruction and practice in basic communication skills: verbal and non-verbal

communication, listening, group discussion and public speaking. Students will give a variety of speeches including

impromptu, informative and persuasive speeches.

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BEGINNING DEBATE 1-2 Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Basic Communication or Instructor’s Permission

Beginning Debate is a course in argumentation, logical thinking, and speaking skills. It teaches a student to analyze

problems and reach a logical solution. The student can convey this through the art of speaking. It teaches the student

to research, think, and express oneself. It also offers opportunities for competition against other schools. Debate can

be taken for six terms if the student so desires.

ADVANCED FORENSICS Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

This course, which can be taken for 4 semesters (2 semesters per year), continues the study of debate theory.

Speaking, thinking, and research skills will be expanded upon. Individual speaking events will be explored and

practiced. The student will compete against other schools on a competitive level in both speech and debate.

Students who have taken Beginning Debate or have been on the speech team are eligible for this class.

BEGINNING ACTING Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Requirement: Basic Communication

This is a one-term course designed to teach the basic fundamentals of the theater, both as an actor and as an

audience. A student is exposed to directions, memorizing of lines, and learning the wants, needs, and ideals of

theater audiences. Performances in these areas are required.

ADVANCED ACTING Grades 11-12 1 Semester

Requirement: Beginning Acting

This course will go into greater detail in the history of drama, the different types of drama, the audience, its likes and

dislikes, and the idea of “You as a critic of the Theater.” The student will learn and use techniques for believable

theater. The student will memorize lines, perform, write and direct acting scenes.

ENGLISH 10 Grade 10 2 Semesters

This course will continue the study of literature. Students will read a selection of short stories, drama, poetry,

nonfiction and novels. Students will write expository essays, developing themes from the literature. A research

paper is required.

ENGLISH 11 Grade 11 2 Semesters

Requirement: Must have successfully completed English 10.

This course is a general survey of selected American writers and their literature. Students enrolled in this course will

read various novels, short stories, and poetry and write expository essays based on the ideas and concepts of the

literature. A research paper is required for this course.

ADVANCED ENGLISH 11 Grade 11 2 Semesters

Requirement: Must have successfully completed English 10.

Advanced English 11 is a requirement for admission into Advanced Composition or AP Literature and Composition

unless permission is granted by instructors of these courses. This college preparatory course is designed for juniors

who anticipate entering an academic college after graduation. As an intensive study of novels, short stories, plays

and poetry, it stresses composition assignments, which are comparable college level work. A research paper is

required for this course.

ENGLISH 12 Grade 12 2 Semesters

English 12 is a literature and writing course. Written expression will include poetry and expository essays.

Practical application of language skills as well as critical thinking will be stressed. This course will also emphasize

reading skills, vocabulary and analytical thinking. A research project is required.

ADVANCED COMPOSITION Grade 12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Must have taken both English 10 and Advanced English 11 and passed both with a minimum

of a “C” average or permission of the instructor.

Advanced Composition is a class designed to help the college-bound student make a successful transition into post-

secondary education. As such, this class defines the prevalent forms of expository prose used in post-secondary

education: the paragraph, the journal, the essay, the critical analysis and the research paper. Specifically, the student

will write a number of paragraphs and essays using a variety of developmental methods, write a critical analysis of a

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short story and of a novel, write a position paper, and write a research paper. All documentation will be conducted

according to MLA guidelines of which the student should have some prior knowledge.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN FOR DUAL CREDIT.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION Grade 12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Must have taken and received an A or B in Advanced English 11 or permission of instructor

This college level course is designed for those students who genuinely desire an intensive study of both literature

and composition. This course demands consistent long-range task commitment to the careful and perceptive reading

of college-level prose, poetry and drama. It also demands the completion of extensive and numerous essays covering

that material. The satisfactory completion of the national exam for college credit is only an ostensible goal.

BEGINNING JOURNALISM Grades 9-12 1 Semester

This course involves writing, editing and layout techniques for high school publications. The class requires quite a

bit of writing as well as other techniques needed to prepare both newspapers and yearbooks.

NEWS LAB Grades 10-12 1or 2 Semesters

Requirements: Minimum of an A or B in Beginning Journalism or Instructor Permission.

Newspaper staff members write, edit and do page layout and computer preparation of high school newspaper.

Extensive computer work is required.

YEARBOOK LAB Grades 10-12 1 or 2 Semesters

Requirements: Minimum of an A or B in Beginning Journalism or Instructor Permission.

Yearbook staff members write copy and headlines, design computer layouts, take and crop pictures, and work with

digital photos. Extensive computer work is required.

MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT

The mission of the math department is to provide, through required sequential and elective courses, the development

of day-to-day mathematical survival skills, skills required for advancement toward “pure” mathematical careers,

develop an appreciation for mathematics, and the application of mathematics to other disciplines.

PRE-ALGEBRA Grade 9-12 2 Semesters

Students will understand and use basic properties of the real number system. They will solve problems

involving signed number operations, simple equations, order of operations, perimeter / circumference, area, surface

area and volume of shapes. As a result, they will then utilize these concepts in real–life applications.

APPLIED MATHEMATICS Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Algebra 1-2

Students will utilize arithmetic operations, problem solving techniques, estimation of answers, measurement skills,

geometry, data handling, simple statistics, and algebraic formulas to solve problems.

ALGEBRA 1-2 Grades 9-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: 8th Grade Math or Pre-Algebra

Students will solve and graph one variable equations and inequalities and solve systems of equations using graphing,

substitution and linear combinations. They will analyze data and model linear (1st degree) equations and

inequalities. They will solve and graph quadratic equations (2 degree) and perform operations of polynomials.

GEOMETRY Grades 9-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Algebra 1-2

Students will use the properties of 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional shapes and will also calculate perimeter,

circumference, area, surface area and volume. They will use reasoning and methods of proof to verify geometric

properties.

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ALGEBRA 3-4 Grades 9-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: “C” or better in Algebra 1-2

Students will solve and graph linear (1st degree) and quadratic (2nd degree) functions. Students will solve systems

of linear equations (using matrices) and non-linear equations and inequalities. They will apply probability and

statistics to theoretical and real-life problems. Students will graph and solve polynomial, exponential, logarithmic

and rational functions.

COLLEGE ALGEBRA Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Student must have earned an “A” in Algebra 1-2 or a “C” or better in Algebra 3-4 and

Geometry or have Instructor Permission.

This course will meet the course curriculum for Algebra 3-4 and the course content for MATH 1150 – College

Algebra. Students will analyze, graph, combine and compose families of functions and transform these functions.

Students will solve systems of linear equations (using matrices) and non-linear equations and inequalities. They will

apply probability and statistics to theoretical and real-life problems. Students will graph and solve polynomial,

exponential, logarithmic and rational functions and analyze and graph conic sections. They will perform regressions

of polynomial, exponential, and power functions to create models. Students will analyze arithmetic and geometric

sequences and series.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN FOR DUAL CREDIT.

TRIGONOMETRY Grades10-12 1 Semester

Requirements: Algebra 3–4 and Geometry

Students will apply right triangle trigonometry to solve triangles. They will also compose and analyze trigonometric

functions in order to solve oblique triangles. They will demonstrate vector operations in various applications.

PRE-CALCULUS Grade 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Geometry and Algebra 3–4 or College Algebra

Students will analyze polynomial, rational, logarithmic, exponential, trigonometric functions. They will analyze

(including rotating) conic sections. Students will formulate and compute sequences and series and prove series

formulas using mathematical induction. They will deduce polar and parametric equations from rectangular

orientation and visa-versa. They will develop and use techniques of evaluating limits.

STATISTICS Grade 10-12 1 Semester

Requirement: Algebra 3–4 or College Algebra

Students will learn the basic vocabulary of statistics and will display data using graphs and charts. They will find

measures of central tendencies, variation and position. Students will use normal and binomial distributions and

inferential statistics to begin hypothesis testing.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CALCULUS Grade 12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Pre-Calculus (double period)

Students will develop and utilize differential and integral calculus to satisfy the syllabus established by the College

Board.

VISUAL BASIC PROGRAMMING Grades 9 – 12 1 Semester

Requirements: Computer Applications 1 and Algebra 1-2

This is an introductory programming class using the Visual Basic programming language. It is designed for those

students who have little or no knowledge of programming. Topics covered will include input/output (non disk), loop

structure, simple dimension arrays, error trapping, algorithm development, subroutines, string manipulation, bubble

sort, menu-driven programming and mass program storage.

ADVANCED PROGRAMMING Grades 9 – 12 1 Semester

Requirements: Visual Basic Programming

This course is designed for students who have demonstrated ability and desire to program computers. Students

should possess knowledge of elementary VISUAL BASIC through single dimension array variables. Topics will

include multi-dimensional arrays advanced mathematics operators and graphics.

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MUSIC DEPARTMENT

The Mission of the NPHS Music Department is to cultivate each student’s musical abilities and potential through a

sequential development of musical skills; to furnish creative experiences which provide an opportunity for success;

and to attain an appreciation of music and its potential for life-long participation and enjoyment.

9 TH GRADE BAND Grade 9 2 Semesters

Requirements: Participation in 8th

grade band and/or approval of the instructor. $30.00 Activity Card

The 9th

grade band helps the student advance his/her technical and musical skills. The 9th

grade band would perform,

on a limited basis, at the discretion of the instructor. Jazz Ensemble is a performing group within the 9th

grade band.

Participation in winter pep band and jazz band is expected.

9 TH GRADE VOCAL Grade 9 2 Semesters

This course is designed to deal with the young voice. It will develop sight-reading and vocal techniques and

confidence in the “changing” voice. Literature for the group will range from the “classics” to the “pop” sound of

today, and these students may also have instruction each week in some elements of music theory and music

appreciation. Performances will be at the discretion of the instructor. Swing Choir is a select performing group

within the 9th

grade choir.

SOPHOMORE BAND Grade 10 2nd Semester

Requirements: Participation in the 9th

grade band and/or approval of the instructor. $30.00 Activity Card.

The Sophomore Band helps the students to advance their technical, theory and musical skills. The Sophomore Band

would perform at the discretion of the instructor. Jazz ensemble is a performing group within the 10th

grade band.

Participation in winter pep band is expected. There will be opportunities for participation in honor bands and music

contest.

MIXED CHOIR Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

Mixed Chorus will explore a wide variety of literature ranging from classical to pop as well as show-tunes and

musicals for mixed SATB. This class will serve as a training ground to gain admittance to Concert Choir. Students

will be presented with basic music theory instructions throughout the year as well as having performances at the

discretion of the instructor. There will be opportunities for participation in honor choirs and music contest. Swing

Choir is a select performing group for sophomores within Mixed Choir.

JUNIOR VARSITY ORCHESTRA Grades 9-12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Previous string training, audition, and/or instructor’s approval

Students will polish existing skills and techniques and will be able to perform music of Grade III in level of

difficulty during the year. Students may have some instruction in music theory and music appreciation. Attendance

at scheduled concerts is required.

VARSITY ORCHESTRA Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Instructor’s approval and/or audition.

Students will polish existing skills and techniques and will be able to perform music of Grades III to IV in level of

difficulty in orchestral literature during the year. Attendance at scheduled concerts is required. There will be

opportunities for participation in honor orchestras and music contest.

VARSITY BAND Grades 11-12 2nd Semester

Requirements: Audition and/or approval of the instructor. $30.00 Activity Card, $25.00 Uniform Fee for

those not in Marching Band in the fall.

The Varsity Band is designed for the more advanced student. The Band will perform at concerts throughout the

semester, will provide music for athletic events, community service and provide students the chance to participate in

Honor Bands and Music Contest. Participation in pep band is expected. “Jazz Ensemble” is a select jazz performing

ensemble chosen from the Varsity Band.

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MARCHING BAND Grades 10-12 1st Semester

Requirements: Audition and/or approval of the instructor. $30.00 Activity Card, $25.00 Class Fee.

The Marching Band will march at football games and at competitions decided by the instructor. The class fee will

cover uniform rental, cleaning, gloves, shoes and any other accessories needed.

CONCERT CHOIR Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirements: Audition and/or permission of the instructor. $10.00 Robe Cleaning Fee.

Concert Choir is designed for the more advanced choral student. It provides an opportunity to further develop vocal

skills with an emphasis on proper phrasing, breathing, vowel formation and diction. A wide variety of choral

literature will be presented. Concert Choir will perform at the discretion of the instructor. There will be opportunities

to participate in Honor Choirs and music contest. “The Blue and Gold Singers” is a select group of Junior and

Seniors who audition during the previous spring. This ensemble travels and performs at various functions and social

events as well as competitions.

MUSIC APPRECIATION Grades 10-12 1 Semester

Music Appreciation is a class designed to help the individual develop an appreciation for all kinds of music. Study

in this semester long course will include, but not be limited to, music history in the Baroque, Classical, Romantic

and Contemporary periods, Broadway musicals, the history of jazz, the history of rock-n-roll, and possibly current

events in the world of music. The student will be responsible for completing listening exercises, daily assignments,

all quizzes and tests and possibly one large project throughout the semester.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN FOR DUAL CREDIT.

MUSIC THEORY Grades 9-12 1 Semester

This class will cover beginning, intermediate and advanced music theory, and could include guitar theory and jazz

theory as well as music composition and music technology. The curriculum will be determined per individual

student by the instructor.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION DEPARTMENT

The Mission of the Physical Education Department is to enhance the student’s present level of fitness and health, to

improve the student’s gross and fine motor skills, and to teach the student the techniques and rules of a variety of

individual and team sports.

TEAM SPORTS Grade 9 1 Semester

Team Sports is required for one semester during the 9th

grade year. The course will be divided into 2 areas: Health

Related Fitness; and Individual and Team Recreational Activities. Students will have 5-6 fitness tests required to

complete the course.

FITNESS Grade 10 1 Semester

Fitness is required for one semester during the 10th

grade year. The course will be divided into 2 areas: Health

Related Fitness; and Individual and Team Recreational Activities. Students will have 5-6 fitness tests required to

complete the course, as well as written activity tests.

RECREATIONAL SPORTS Grades 11-12 1 Semester

Recreational Sports is required for one semester during the 11th

or 12th

grade year. The course will be divided into 3

areas: Health Related Fitness; Individual and Team Recreational Activities; and CPR. Students will have 5-6 fitness

tests required to complete the course, as well as written activity tests, and CPR test.

WEIGHTLIFTING Grades 11-12 1 Semester

This course is designed to be a supplemental class in aiding in the development of strength training and

conditioning. It will consist of a structured lifting program that the students will follow four days a week. An

emphasis will be placed on lifelong fitness, and the students will perform warm-up drills as a part of class each day.

Students will also be lectured on various topics pertaining to strength training and fitness.

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SCIENCE DEPARTMENT

The Mission of the Science Department is to promote the scientific thought processes, introduce the latest scientific

techniques to broaden the student’s scientific knowledge, and to expand the student’s ability to apply this knowledge

to develop interest, understanding and awareness of the need for science.

PHYSICAL SCIENCE Grade 9 2 Semesters

Students will study the basic principles of Chemistry and Physics. Physical Science will cover measuring, atomic

structure and how atomic structure relates to the properties of matter. The Physics portion includes the study of

energy, motion, light, heat and nuclear form. Mini projects/challenges, both group and individual, will be part of the

course requirements. This course provides a good background in problem solving and process skills such as

graphing, collecting and analyzing data, and conducting experiments.

BIOLOGY Grade 10 2 Semesters

Biology is the study of living plants and animals. The course is designed to meet the lab science requirements for

high school students. Biological principles will be applied during the study of cells, genetics, microorganisms,

plants, animal ecology, and human biology. Labs, studies and discussion will be expanded to satisfy interest, the

desire for scientific knowledge and scientific technique.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT BIOLOGY Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Advanced Placement Biology is designed to be the equivalent of a college introductory biology course. This class

may be taken by 11th

or 12th

grade students who have completed high school biology and chemistry class or

are currently enrolled in chemistry. Topics covered are molecular biology, genetics, evolution, organisms, and

ecology. The course will provide students with factual knowledge and analytical skills necessary to deal critically

with the rapidly changing science of biology.

EARTH SCIENCE Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Earth Science is an upper level study of our planet and the forces that affect it. The slowly changing face of the earth

will be investigated by studying the internal (Plate Tectonics, and composition), oceanic (Oceanography),

atmospheric (Weather), and external forces (Space) that affect it.

PHYSIOLOGY Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Biology

Physiology is the study of the human body and its functions. The course is designed for college-bound students who

are interested in pursuing a career in health or various medical fields. Lab work is an integral part of the course.

Fetal pigs will be dissected along with other organs.

*THIS CLASS CAN ALSO BE TAKEN FOR DUAL CREDIT.

CHEMISTRY 1-2 Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Algebra 1-2

Chemistry 1-2 is an introductory course covering essential concepts in the science of chemistry. Topics studied

include both physical and chemical properties of matter, and the course will provide adequate preparation for

freshman chemistry courses in college. The content in the course also requires knowledge of basic algebra.

Laboratory exercises accompany all concepts to allow the student to directly experience chemical and physical

processes, and to encourage deductive reasoning and critical thinking of concepts through observed facts.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT CHEMISTRY Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Chemistry and completion or concurrent enrollment in Algebra 3-4

Advanced Placement Chemistry provides an in-depth study of the structure of matter (atomic theory, atomic

structure, chemical bonding, nuclear chemistry), states of matter (gases, liquids, solids, solutions),and reactions

(reaction types, stoichiometry, equilibrium, kinetics, thermodynamics). AP Chemistry is designed to be equivalent to

introductory general chemistry courses; therefore student expectations and outcomes will be similar. In addition to

the traditional classroom format, students participate in an intensive laboratory experience and become familiar with

current scientific literature. Completion of this course will prepare students to take the national College Board

Advanced Placement exam in Chemistry.

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PHYSICS Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Successfully Complete Algebra 3-4

The students will learn to work a variety of problems taken from kinetics, static, heat, electricity optics, and nuclear

physics. They will study a basic physics test and perform several experiments. Many of the problems will involve

vectors, and basic trigonometry will be used. The course points toward a college sequence of calculus followed by

physics.

SOCIAL STUDIES DEPARTMENT

Because of the diverse values, opportunities and life experiences which our students bring to the classroom, the

mission of the Social Studies Department is to address this diversity by exploring group identities at three levels:

family, country, and global society. Study of these levels of social life will address the three questions on which the

program is based: “Who am I?, ” “To what group do I belong?,” and “How should my peers and I behave?”

GEOGRAPHY Grade 9 2 Semesters

Geography is the study of the various countries and cultural regions of the world. The course will focus on the

review of essential Geography skills and the five themes of Geography: Place, Movement, Location, Region and

Interaction. Additional emphasis will be focused on the study of current events as they are influenced by and shape

the world as it is today. Whenever possible, the content of the course will be integrated with 9th

English to

complement and enhance student learning.

WORLD HISTORY Grade 10 2 Semesters

This course is designed to give the students an understanding of the problems of the past and help prepare for the

future. This course will be a survey of history from the ancient world to modern times. Topics emphasized will be

the Renaissance, Reformation, Exploration, Enlightenment, Industrial Revolution, World Wars and the Modern Era.

SOCIOLOGY Grades 10–12 1 Semester

Sociology is the scientific study of human society and social behavior. Five different areas of sociology will be

emphasized in the class: social institutions, organizations, groups, positions, and social roles. This course will enable

a student to better understand self through learning about and understanding one’s social environment.

PSYCHOLOGY Grades 11-12 1 Semester

Psychology is the scientific study of human and animal behavior in its entirety. Through willingness to participate in

classroom activities, the student will be able to better understand his own behavior as well as the behavior of others.

Some topics to be covered are mental health, intelligence, memory and learning, emotions, sensation and perception.

UNITED STATES HISTORY Grade 11 2 Semesters

This is a general survey of United States History from the Age of Exploration and Discovery to the present. The

course of study will be from a chronological perspective with emphasis on political, social and economic aspects.

AMERICAN GOVERNMENT Grade 12 1 Semester

Requirement: U.S. History

*U.S. History must be completed prior to enrolling in American Government

The objective of this course is to prepare students to function as useful citizens in their adult lives by acquiring an

understanding the fundamental precepts of a democratic system of government: an examination of the three

branches of government at national, state, and local levels; a focus on the pragmatic aspects of politics and the

influence of public opinion and special interest groups; a recognition and understanding of the structure and function

of political parties; and acquiring a basic knowledge about the mechanics of voting.

ADVANCED PLACEMENT AMERICAN GOVERNMENT Grade 12 2 Semesters

*U.S. History must be completed prior to enrolling in Advanced Placement American Government

Course material would be similar to the regular American Government course except that the reading level of the

text will be college level. High standards and expectations of students are basic to this course. Students enrolled in

this course are required to complete two terms of AP American Government to fulfill the graduation requirements.

Students will be properly prepared for the AP examination. Extensive written assignments will be required.

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ADVANCED PLACEMENT UNITED STATES HISTORY Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

This study of U.S. History is designed to be a college freshman style course where students may earn both high

school and college credits. This course will cover the major topics of U.S. History from the colonial period to the

present. Reading and writing assignments for this course are extensive. An effort will be made to include the

political, military, social, and economic history of the U.S. High standards and expectations of students are basic to

this course. Students will be properly prepared for the AP examination

WORLD LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT

The mission of the World Languages Department is to provide quality instruction in world languages that promotes

communication, expands students’ perspectives through the study of other cultures, and develops the skills

necessary to become global citizens.

Students acquire basic reading, writing, speaking and listening skills, and cultural awareness in the first two years of

study, and develop further proficiencies in these skills as they advance through the entire program.

SPANISH 1-2 Grades 9-12 2 Semesters

Using a thematic approach, this course focuses on meeting basic survival needs and minimum courtesy requirements

by developing listening, speaking, reading, and writing skills. Students comprehend main ideas, create statements or

questions, and recombine learned vocabulary and structures. The study of geography and culture of the Hispanic

world gives student an opportunity to develop an appreciation of other cultures.

SPANISH 3-4 Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

Highly Recommended: To have had a C or above for Spanish 1-2This course develops the basic

competencies of level one Spanish through a thematic approach with greater understanding of vocabulary, grammar

and pronunciation. Less interference from the native language is experienced and main ideas are further understood.

Students enjoy expressing themselves in Spanish with greater fluency in listening, speaking, reading and writing

activities. Cultural insights continue.

SPANISH 5-6 Grades 11-12 2 Semesters

Highly Recommended: To have had a C or above for Spanish 3 -4

In third level Spanish students continue to develop the listening, speaking, reading and writing skills that they

acquired in first and second level Spanish through a thematic approach. The ability to express themselves more

fluently results in expanded conversations and more original expression in written activities. The introduction of

Spanish literature, art, music and other topics enhances the students culturally and develops reading skills.

SPANISH 7-8 Grades 11-12 2 Semester

Highly Recommended: To have had a C or above for Spanish 5-6

As the students expand their vocabulary and study more detailed grammatical usage through a thematic approach,

they comprehend more complex conversations and express themselves more fluently in the language in the past,

present, and future. Level four Spanish students continue the study of Spanish literature, art, music and other topics

to increase culture enrichment.

FRENCH 1-2 Grades 9-12 2 Semesters

First-year French is a course designed to introduce the student to the French language and the culture of France and

other French-speaking countries of the world. Emphasis is on the basic language skills: listening, speaking, reading

and writing.

FRENCH 3-4 Grades 9-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Received credit for French 1-2

Second-year is a continuation of first-year French. Through continued input of vocabulary, grammar and cultural

lessons, the course strives to help students develop linguistic proficiency and cultural sensitivity.

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FRENCH 5-6 Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Received credit for French 3-4

In third-year French students continue to develop the listening, speaking, reading and writing skills that they

acquired in first and second-year French. The ability to express themselves more fluently results in expanded

conversations and also in more original expression in written compositions. Introduction to French literature will

develop reading skills as well as enhance the study of culture.

FRENCH 7-8 Grades 10-12 2 Semesters

Requirement: Received credit for French 5-6

As the students expand their vocabulary and study more detailed grammatical usage, they will be able to

comprehend more complex conversations and express themselves more fluently in the language. The fourth-year

French student will continue the study of French literature and write more advanced compositions. This class is an

accelerated experience in the language.