Adult High School Diploma Program

Student Handbook

revised 5/1/13

www.gaston.edu Adult High School Diploma Program

Student Handbook

Gaston College … Opportunities for Life

VISION STATEMENT

Gaston College will be viewed as the premier post-secondary educational resource in the region, consistently recognized as an exceptional community college and known in the state and nation for successful and innovative programs.

MISSION STATEMENT

Gaston College is an open-door public community college, located in Gaston and Lincoln counties, that promotes student success and lifelong learning through high caliber, affordable, and comprehensive educational programs and services responding to economic and workforce development needs.

ACCREDITATION

Gaston College is accredited by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACS 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097, 404-679-4501) to award associate degrees.

EQUAL OPPORTUNITY

Gaston College is committed to affirmative action and equal opportunity in employment and education, and does not discriminate against current or potential employees or students on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, or disability.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome……………………………………………………………………………………3 Addresses and Contacts………………………………………………………………3 About the Program……………………………………………………………………..3 Credit Requirements………………………………………………………………..4-5 Registration……………………………………………………………………………….6 Student ID…………………………………………………………………………………6 Attendance………………………………………………………………………………..7 Withdrawal ………………………………………………………………………………..7 Grading System………………………………………………………………………….8 Transcripts/Enrollment Verification……………………………………………….9 Satisfactory Academic Progress……………………………………………………9 Academic Alert/Suspension…………………………………………………9 Grounds for Dismissal…………………………………………………………9 Behavior Requirements…………………………………………………………..9-10 Dismissal Policy………………………………………………………………………..10 Student Honesty……………………………………………………………………….10 Credit by Exam…………………………………………………………………………11 Testing…………………………………………………………………………………….11 Graduation……………………………………………………………………………….12 AHS Course Descriptions………………………………………………………12-19

MISSION OF BASIC SKILLS

The mission of the Basic Skills program is to assist adults to become literate and obtain the knowledge and skills necessary for employment and self-sufficiency, assist adults who are parents to obtain the educational skills necessary to become full partners in the educational development of their children, and assist adults in the completion of a secondary school education. The North Carolina Community College System provides educational opportunities for adults to improve their reading, writing, mathematics, and communication skills through five major program components.

- 2 - Adult High School Diploma Program

Welcome

Welcome to the Adult High School Diploma Program. This handbook was developed to assist you in designing your educational plan while enrolled in the AHS program at Gaston College. You are responsible for reading and understanding the information, policies, and procedures contained within this guide. Our staff is dedicated to helping you reach your educational goals, and will offer encouragement and support to make your educational experience with us enjoyable and successful.

Addresses & Contacts

Dallas Campus: Lincoln Campus: Gaston College AHS Gaston College AHS 201 Hwy 321 South 511 South Aspen Street Dallas, NC 28034 Lincolnton, NC 28092

Secretary, LS (AHS/ESL): (704) 748-5205 [email protected] Coordinator, AHS: (704) 922-6319 [email protected] Secretary, LIF Bldg: (704) 922-6545 [email protected] Director, Life Skills: (704) 922-6352 [email protected]

About the Program

The Adult High School program offers day and evening classes for high school credit to adults* who desire to complete their high school diploma. A student must score 9th grade level on an approved reading assessment test in order to enter the AHS program. There are no tuition costs for the program. Many textbooks are supplied, but the student may be responsible for purchasing some of the books at minimal cost. Upon successful completion of all requirements, a high school diploma will be issued by the Gaston/Lincoln County Boards of Education and the NC Department of Public Instruction through Gaston College**. After successful completion of the program, students are invited to participate in a cap and gown graduation ceremony.

*All 16 & 17 year olds must be officially withdrawn from school and complete and submit minor paperwork as designated by Gaston College. **Student must complete at least one credit in the Adult High School in order to receive a diploma from Gaston College.

- 3 - Required Credits for Graduation

Credit requirements are determined by the NC Department of Public Instruction and are based on a student’s original graduation date. That date is calculated by determining when the student first entered 9th grade in public school. Total credit requirements range between 16 and 22 credits. Adult High School students are only required to finish what they started in high school in order to earn a diploma. Therefore, required courses in some subject areas will be different depending on the year the student would have graduated. All students must meet all local and state requirements in addition to credit requirements.

Class of 1953 - 1982 Class of 1983 - 1986

English 4 Credits English 4 Credits

Math 1 Credit Math 2 Credits

Science 2 Credits Science 2 Credits

Social 2 Credits Social 2 Credits Studies Studies

Health & PE 1 Credit Health & PE 1 Credit

Electives 6 Credits Electives 7 Credits Total 16 Credits Total 18 Credits

Class of 1987 - 1995 Class of 1996 – 2003

English 4 Credits English 4 Credits

Math 2 Credits Math 3 Credits Must include Algebra I

Science 2 Credits Science 3 Credits 1 Physical 1 Physical 1 Biological Biology 1 Other

Social 2 Credits Social 3 Credits Studies US Gov’t t& Economics Studies US Gov’t t& Economics US History US History 1 World Studies

Health & PE 1 Credit Health & PE 1 Credit

Electives 9 Credits Electives 6 Credits Total 20 Credits Total 20 Credits

- 4 - Class of 2004 - 2012 Class of 2013 – 2015

English 4 Credits English 4 Credits I, II, III, IV I, II, III, IV

Math 3 Credits Math 4 Credits Must include Algebra I Algebra I Geometry Algebra II 1 Other Math

Science 3 Credits Science 3 Credits 1 Physical Science 1 Physical Science Biology Biology Earth/Env Science Earth/Env Science

Social 3 Credits Social 3 Credits Studies US Gov’t t& Economics Studies US Gov’t & Economics US History US History World History World History

Health & PE 1 Credit Health & PE 1 Credit

Electives 6 Credits Electives 6 Credits Total 20 Credits Total 21 Credits*

Class of 2016 and Beyond

English 4 Credits I, II, III, IV

Math 4 Credits Algebra I Geometry Algebra II 1 Higher Math

Science 3 Credits Physical Science Biology Earth/Env Science

Social 4 Credits Studies US Gov’t & Econ US History I US History II World History

Health & PE 1 Credit

Electives 6 Credit s Total 22 Credits*

*16 & 17 year old students will be required to take additional elective courses to meet graduation requirements.

- 5 - How to Register

New/Returning students must attend a full four-day New Student Orientation, at which time they will be tested to qualify for the AHS program and pre-registered for AHS classes. Students must bring to orientation their NC Driver License or NC Identification card, Social Security Card, Minor paperwork if applicable, and an unopened official transcript. Students with incomplete files may not be allowed to register. Students who arrive late to orientation will not be allowed to attend.

Current students will be expected to pre-register with his/her advisor, or a designated AHS staff member, on designated days in the month prior to the beginning of each semester. At that appointed time, a student will be allowed to choose classes for that semester and will be given a class schedule. Students attending classes for which they are not pre-registered will not receive credit for the course. Students are expected to attend the first day of class at which time the instructor will officially register them in the course. Students who do not attend classes for which they are pre-registered will receive a grade of “No Show” for each class. No Shows will be printed on AHS transcripts as “NS”.

 A student will not receive credit for any course for which registration has not been completed.  It is student’s responsibility that he/she is enrolled in the courses that meet the requirements for a diploma.  It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all course and graduation requirements are met.

Canceled Classes

Gaston College reserves the right to cancel classes due to insufficient enrollment or other extenuating circumstances. In the case of canceled classes, every effort will be made to reassign students to another class being offered.

Student ID

All Adult High School students are required to have a Gaston College photo ID card. Students will receive a student ID during orientation. Students attending classes on the Dallas Campus must present ID to Security upon entering the Pearson Life Skills Building. ID should be worn and visible at all times while in the building. The first ID card is free. There is a $10.00 replacement fee required by security for lost IDs. An approval form is required to have a replacement ID made.

- 6 - Class Attendance

The responsibility for class attendance is placed specifically on the student. A student who fails to maintain attendance requirements should not expect to pass the course. 80% attendance is required. The student is responsible for all material covered in each class. Absence from class does not relieve the student of the responsibility for the performance of any part of the course work. The student is responsible for initiating the request to make up any work missed during the absence. The decision to assist the student with make-up work, including tests, in every case rests with the instructor. The instructor may require verification of medical and personal circumstances presented by the student to influence this decision. Course work not made up may affect a student’s grade in the final evaluation since the instructor is not required to offer the student an opportunity to make up course work.

Attendance Requirements

. Students may not exceed the allowable number of absences per class. (This is fourteen hours of absences for most classes.) Students in their last semester of classes may petition the instructor of the class and the AHS Program Coordinator for an exception. . Students will be automatically withdrawn without penalty due to excessive absences. (See section label “withdrawal” below.) . Students must be present for the entire class in order to receive credit for attending. Students who do not attend an entire class period will be given credit for attendance rounded to the nearest quarter hour. . If for any reason a class is cancelled for the day, it may be made up by having class on a Friday, a vacation day, or by extending the semester. . Students are to remain in the classroom for the entire scheduled class time unless on official class break or otherwise approved by the instructor. Students who leave class without approval cannot return to class that period.

Withdrawal

A student who stops attending class for any reason will be withdrawn from the class by the instructor. Student will receive a grade of “W” for the course on their transcript. If a student is withdrawn from all classes for two consecutive semesters, he/she will not be allowed to register for the following semester.

- 7 - Grading System

A = 93 – 100 B = 85 – 92 C = 77 – 84 D = 70 – 76 F = 0 – 69 I = Incomplete (F) NS = No Show W = Withdrawn

A final grade is the instructor’s evaluation of the student’s work and achievement throughout a course. Grades are given at the discretion of the instructor. Once a grade has been submitted, it will not be changed, except in the event of a clerical error or by successful student petition for appeal.

Incompletes may be removed by repeating the course for a passing grade or making up coursework (when appropriate.) Otherwise, an Incomplete will be recorded as an F on the student’s final transcript.

No Shows and Withdrawals will be recorded on official transcripts.

All petitions for grade changes must be filed in the AHS office within one semester after the grade was earned. Prior to petitioning for a grade change, a student should meet with the instructor for the course to discuss the grading process and try to resolve the conflict. If no satisfactory solution is found, then the student may petition to the Coordinator of the AHS program.

Important Grade Requirements

. Students must maintain a 70% average or better as determined by the instructor. . Students must complete all of the instructor's requirements for the class (i.e. daily assignments, projects, research papers, quizzes, tests, etc.). . Students must pass the comprehensive final exam for each class.

- 8 - Transcripts, Grade Reports, and Enrollment Verifications

Official and student copies of transcripts and/or semester grade reports are available through the AHS office. Students must complete and sign an official transcript request before grades will be released. Transcripts will not be faxed. Gaston College does not issue transcripts from other colleges or high schools. Any student needing a transcript from a school previously attended should contact that institution.

Proof of enrollment can be obtained from the AHS office upon completion of an enrollment verification request. Proof of enrollment will not be issued until after a student has attended two weeks of class.

There is a processing time of five business days required for all transcript & enrollment verification requests.

Satisfactory Academic Progress

Academic Alert/Suspension Students should exhibit “satisfactory progress” in order to remain in good standing in the AHS program. Satisfactory progress is stated in terms of minimum grades; completion of course requirements; and the achievement of certain knowledge, skills, and abilities. If a student does not maintain satisfactory progress, he/she will first be placed on academic alert, and notified in writing. If after two successive semesters the Academic Alert status has not been removed, the student will be placed on academic suspension, and will not be allowed to re-enroll in the AHS program for one semester.

Behavior Requirements

Participation in the AHS program at Gaston College is a privilege for each student. By entering classes, students take upon themselves certain responsibilities and obligations, which include an honest attempt at academic performance and social behavior consistent with the lawful purpose of the college. Strict adherence to the following rules is expected: . No one will be allowed to disrupt the educational process of another student. This includes classroom disturbances such as talking, noises, excessive tardiness, etc. . Use of cell phones and pagers are also disruptive and will not be allowed in class. . There will be no children or babies allowed in the classroom.

- 9 - . Students may not have food in the classroom during class time except by special permission from the instructor. No food or drink is allowed in computer labs. . Appropriate and modest attire is expected. Students should not wear short shorts, halter-tops, or clothing with inappropriate language or pictures that may be offensive to others. . Students are expected to be prepared for class and actively participate. . Students must have all required textbooks by the third class meeting. . Students must follow ALL Gaston College policies and Life Skills rules.

Failure to comply with the above policies will result in removal from class. Students who are asked to leave the classroom for any reason or are not attending class are to leave the campus immediately.

Dismissal Policy

Students may be suspended or expelled from the program for violation of the Gaston College Student Code of Conduct. Students who are found in violation will be referred to the Associate Vice President of Student Services. Students may appeal any sanction as stated in the Gaston College Student Handbook. All students should receive copies of, and are responsible for knowing and following, all policies listed in this AHS Handbook and Curriculum Guide and the Gaston College Student Code of Conduct/Student Handbook.

Violation of the following will result in the recommendation for immediate dismissal from the program: . Possession of a weapon…knives, firearms, or any object a person could reasonably believe was intended to be used as a weapon. . Possession, distribution, or being under the influence of drugs or alcohol. . Assault…fighting and/or inappropriately touching another person without their consent. . Harassment (sexual/racial)… or any conduct which places undue fear or pressure on another person.

Student Honesty

Dishonesty, cheating, plagiarism, and knowingly furnishing false information to the college are regarded as serious offenses. Cases of dishonesty will first be considered at the departmental level; then the matter will follow procedures in accordance with the Code of Student Conduct.

- 10 - Credit by Exam

The content of the challenge test shall measure demonstrated mastery of course competencies. A minimum grade of 85% will be required to demonstrate mastery and receive a credit for the course. A student may not re-take a challenge test. Challenge tests will only be given when there has been prior learning experience with the subject matter. For example, a student who is withdrawn after successfully completing 75% of the course with passing grades may attempt a challenge test rather than repeating the course.

Challenge testing applies to a limited number of core courses. A student may not challenge elective courses. Tests are given by appointment only and must be scheduled during the first two weeks of the semester. A maximum of two credits may be earned through challenge testing. The AHS Coordinator will determine a student’s eligibility for challenge testing.

Testing

Placement testing Students will be given placement tests during New Student Orientation. These scores will be used to determine which courses a student will be allowed to take.

Post testing Students will be tested periodically to assess individual student progress. Students must also post-test before graduating.

Career Readiness Certification/ Work Keys® Testing Students will be referred to WorkKeys® testing before graduating, usually during their last semester. Any student who scores at least bronze level on all three tests will receive a Career Readiness Certificate (CRC). If the student does not achieve a bronze level, they may be referred to the KeyTrain™ lab to prepare to re-take the portion(s) needed to increase their score and receive the CRC in bronze, silver, or gold levels.

End of Course Exams All students are required to pass a comprehensive final exam for each adult high school course in order to receive credit.

COMPASS The COMPASS is a series of tests taken by students planning to go to Gaston College or other community colleges. The tests are used for placement purposes. Students in their last semester of AHS will be encouraged to make an appointment with student services to take this test prior to graduation.

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Graduation

All potential graduates are required to complete and submit a Graduation Petition. Petitions will be distributed and explained to potential graduates during their last semester. Students who do not complete and submit their petition by the deadline will not graduate, regardless of satisfactory completion of required credits. A completed petition must reflect a CRC certification and a post-test score of 9.0 or greater.

All graduates will be given an opportunity to participate in a cap and gown graduation ceremony. Upon completion of the AHS program, all students will be given a petition for graduation ceremony form, which must be completed and returned to the Life Skills office. There is a $15.00 graduation fee, which must be paid to the Gaston College business office.

AHS Course Descriptions

The courses listed below have been endorsed by the Gaston/Lincoln County School Systems. Based on a review of the individual's transcript, a student will be advised about the appropriate course(s) to take. Successful completion of selected course(s) will result in obtaining a high school diploma from Gaston/Lincoln County Board of Education through Gaston College.

English:

ENG 1 – English Essentials: This course introduces the basic study of grammar and develops writing mastery through the writing process. Types of writing include narrative and descriptive paragraphs and essays. Vocabulary development, reading comprehension, and oral communication skills, and literature are also introduced.

ENG 2 – English Grammar: This course expands on skills in reading, writing, and oral communication that were introduced in English Essentials. New concepts and skills are added to give students a basic foundation in English Grammar. Students are expected to demonstrate a mastery of these skills in process writing samples. Students will study non-fiction literature, completing activities, which emphasize understanding, plot, characterization, theme, style, and vocabulary.

- 12 - English (continued):

ENG 3 – English Composition: Prerequisite: ENG I and ENG 2. Based on skills mastered in English Grammar, students will increase their knowledge of grammar, reading comprehension, and vocabulary by focusing on the following: the writing and punctuation of a variety of sentence types, a review of the parts of speech, the regular use of the newspaper, and a review of basic Latin and Greek roots and suffixes. A major emphasis in this course will be on writing persuasive research papers.

ENG 4 – Literature Based Composition: Prerequisite: ENG I and ENG 2. Students study British literature, including how the literature of Great Britain has influenced the literature of the United States, with a focus on understanding the definition and application of certain literary terms as applied to selected passages. Writing includes the development of comparison and contrast research papers relating to literary selections. Application of grammar skills learned. All levels of English are reviewed.

Mathematics:

Pre-Algebra: This course is designed for students who have test scores exhibiting the need for special study in mathematics. Students are introduced to the skills, concepts, and applications of mathematics required for understanding and applying algebra. The purpose of this course is to prepare students to advance successfully in Algebra I.

Algebra I: Upon completion of this course, students should be able to solve problems using the symbolism of algebra. They will be able to solve first degree equations, recognize and graph linear equations, solve systems of two equations, manipulate literal equations, recognize and use properties of real numbers, simplify expressions containing exponents, multiply polynomials, and factor polynomials.

Geometry: Prerequisite: Algebra I. This course stresses plane geometry with brief coverage of trigonometry and solid geometry. Upon completion students should be able to do simple proofs, solve problems relating to triangle congruence and similarity, and complete the basic geometric constructions. Students will be able to use a table to evaluate a trigonometric function or find the missing angle, find the missing parts of a right triangle by trigonometry, find perimeter/area/volume of certain geo- metric figures, and work with parallel lines.

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Mathematics (Continued):

Algebra II: Prerequisite: Algebra I. Upon completion of this course, students should be able to solve first degree equations and inequalities in one variable, solve a system of two equations in two variables both graphically and algebraically, graph first degree inequalities in one variable, factor quadratics. Students will be able to simplify second and third order radicals, simplify expressions involving integer or other rational exponents, solve second order radical equations, and solve quadratic equations having real roots (by factoring, completing the square, and using the quadratic formula).

Pre-Calculus: Prerequisite: Geometry, Algebra II. Pre-Calculus provides study of trigonometry, advanced functions, analytic geometry and data analysis in preparation for calculus. Applications and modeling are included throughout the course of study. Pre-calculus includes the following competency goals: describe geometric figures in the coordinate plane algebraically and use relations and functions to solve problems.

Social Studies:

US History I: This course begins with the European exploration of the New World through Reconstruction. This course acquaints students with the political, economic, and social forces that shaped events in our nation’s history and helps students to understand present-day American interests and concerns.

US History II: This course focuses on the late 19th century time period through the early 21st century. Students examine the political, economic, social and cultural development of the United States from the end of the Reconstruction era to present time. Students develop an understanding of the cause-and-effect relationship between past and present events, recognize patterns of interaction, and understand the impact of events on the United States in an interconnected world.

Government and Economics: This course is designed to give students a basic overview of critical issues related to government and economics. The study of government emphasizes the United States Constitution as it relates to the structure of our national government and to the rights of individuals in our society. The study of economics involves a discussion of key economic systems and their influences on public issues. Application of these concepts to current events and practical situations is emphasized throughout the course.

- 14 - Social Studies (continued):

World History: This course is a topical review of civilizations' beginning in the Mesopotamian basin to an analysis of the political and economic climate fostering the democratization of the world in the modern era. Students should be able to develop an appreciation for the cultural differences and similarities of the peoples of the world as they relate to evolving economic, religious, social, and political customs.

Science:

Physical Science: This course introduces the basic laws and principles of chemistry and physics. Topics include the scientific method, motion, energy, machines, and the nature of matter, atomic structure chemical bonds, waves, light, sound, and electricity. Upon completion, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of basic physical science concepts.

Biology: This course is a basic study of biological concepts and principles of biology. Upon completion, students should be able to demonstrate an understanding of the nature of science, cell structure and function, chemical and physical basis of life, diversity and classification of living things, genetic inheritance, human anatomy and physiology, and the influence of human activity on the environment.

Earth Science: This course introduces the principles of environmental science. Topics include ecosystems, populations, communities, and interconnections of living organisms, conservation, and effects of human activity on the environment, renewable and nonrenewable resources, and energy flow. Upon completion, students will be able to demonstrate an understanding of basic ecological concepts.

Health:

Health and Wellness: The study of health leads to an awareness of good health practices. This course will include topics in health problems and practices, body systems, proper nutrition and activity, accident prevention and first aid, health risks, diseases and the fight against them, pollution related problems, and careers in the health field.

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Electives:

Careers: This course allows the development of numerous job-searching techniques, explores individual talents and skills, and provides opportunities for employment research. Emphasis will be placed on resume writing, JIST card creation, and interview skills.

Computer Literacy: This course begins with the basics of using a computer, mouse, printer, etc. Students will become more proficient with all functions of a computer, and will be introduced to several software applications. A brief portion of the class will be a preface to the Internet.

Consumer Math: This course includes the solution of word problems involving percent application, proportions, reading charts and graphs for information, estimation, working with measurement, and basic geometry concepts. Applications of the use of math in real-life situations are emphasized throughout the course.

Creative Writing I: A multi-genre introduction to the craft of creative writing. In the context of a variety of genres, students will examine literary conventions as well as the writing techniques and tools essential to effective writing and editing.

Creative Writing II: A continuation of the skills learned in Creative Writing I, involving projects that are broader in scope, more in-depth, and focused on students’ interests and creative strengths.

Current Events: This course provides a broad study of global political developments, international security, and world business and trade. Emphasis will be placed on current events in several regions of the world: Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, and Latin America. Using the Charlotte Observer, students will be required to keep a journal of current events in the daily news.

Drama: This course develops creativity and spontaneity as students learn the essential vocabulary and processes of theatre as well as reading, writing, critical thinking, and acting. The impact of history and different cultures on the theatre is studied. Students will apply practical knowledge by exploring the concept of self, body and voice work, improvisation, acting techniques, and manuscript writing.

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Electives (continued):

Fitness & Nutrition: Integration and application of principles of sound nutrition and physical activities to optimize the physiological, psychological, and social lifelong development of the individual and use of scientific principles and current technological advances to help assess and evaluate physical fitness, body composition, dietary patterns, energy expenditure, and their interrelationships. Body energy sources and metabolism, nutrient requirements for fitness and diets for building and maintaining a healthy body throughout life are surveyed along with the benefits of exercise. Characteristics of health and nutrition problems, emphasizing the prevention, early detection and treatment of eating disorders such as anorexia and bulimia are investigated. The course also looks at fad diets, weight management concerns, and sound weight loss plans.

Graphic Design I: Emphasizing the creative process from thumbnail to comprehensive, the course will also introduce the student to the language, tools, and techniques of the professional graphic designer. Attention will be paid to conceptualization, production and presentation in solving design problems. This course will expose students to a series of assignments designed to show step-by- step problem solving from observation and research, to the incorporation of these findings into the design of communication vehicles.

Graphic Design II: A continuation of the skills learned in Graphic Design I, involving projects that are broader in scope, more in-depth, and include societal issues. After this course students should be able to determine desire to pursue careers in Graphic Design.

Keyboarding: This course will provide an understanding of keyboarding fundamentals while building speed and accuracy in computer keyboarding through hands on application sessions. The course places special emphasis on keystroke mastery through memorization of all parts and location of the keyboard keys. The learner will also build an understanding of terminology used in keyboarding applications while exploring Word processing techniques.

LIT 1 – Short Stories: This course will introduce the student to the short story. The class will study the major elements of the short story: plot, character, setting, and theme, while enjoying literary selections by various famous authors, which relate to multiple generations and nationalities. Special emphasis is placed on reading for understanding, critical thinking, and vocabulary in context.

- 17 - Electives (continued):

LIT 2 – Poetry: This course will provide a broad-spectrum study of the skills needed in order to interpret a variety of types of poetry. Through reading and composing poetry, students will learn the language of rhythms and images. Students will become aware of the methods used to find the underlying clues that unlock the essential meanings of poems.

LIT 3 – American Literature: This course will introduce a variety of literary types: stories, articles, poems, and plays by American authors. Each selection contains heroes, villains or both with whom you will learn to identify with, embrace, or reject. This class will explore the human nature and run the scale of human emotions: love and hate, compassion and cruelty, certainty and doubt, fear and courage.

LIT 4 – Multi-Cultural Literature: This course provides examination of a variety of literary pieces with an emphasis on comparison of global cultures. Students will gain understanding and respect for the vastness of social groups in our world and will expand their perception of how we are all connected through written thought.

Living Law: This course provides a brief look at several aspects of United States Law: law origination, federal and state laws, the Constitution, criminal and civil law, legal terms, trial procedure, and the appeals process. Emphasis will be placed on the numerous ways in which the law may affect students in their everyday life.

Marine Science: This course covers all of the biological factors of a marine environment. The class includes the classification of different groups of organisms, what makes them unique, how they interact and respond to other organisms, and factors that influence their environments. Students study a variety of marine life forms ranging from simple algae to complex mammals.

Per$onal Finance: This course prepares students to understand economic activities and challenges of individuals and families, the role of lifestyle goals in education and career choices, budgeting, financial forms used in independent living, and options and practices for meeting consumer needs. The course also focuses on consumer rights, responsibilities and information; protecting personal and family resources; and applying procedures for managing personal finances.

Psychology: This course provides a study of the traditional topics in psychology: personality, learning, consciousness, child and adolescent development, dreams, and self-understanding. Connections will be made among individuals, family, community, and society. Students will leave with a foundation in the basic theories and principles of psychology.

- 18 - Electives (continued):

Public Speaking: This course will examine the art of speech preparation and delivery. Students will gain an understanding of the importance of various topics in public speaking: topic selection, brainstorming, research, outline formation, speech writing, delivery techniques, and audience assessment.

Sociology: This course will address relevant issues in sociology, the study of human behavior in groups, and of the social forces that influence their behavior. Students will examine the social world and gain an understanding of what people feel, believe, and do in relation to other groups of people.

Spanish I: This course offers an introduction to the Spanish language. It is designed to help students attain an acceptable level of proficiency in four basic skills – speaking, listening, reading, and writing. Students will be responsible for performing each skill during class. Students will leave this course with the basic knowledge of the Spanish language, which will be beneficial in everyday life.

Spanish II: This course continues the enjoyable and rewarding program of language acquisition begun in the first course. It is designed to broaden the student’s level of achievement in basic skills, with special emphasis on communication. Students will also expand their knowledge of vocabulary and grammar and their ability to communicate in everyday life.

Work Practicum: Pathways to Success: Prerequisites: Special approval by program Coordinator. This course promotes workforce development by giving academic credit for work competencies mastered by a student in the AHS program. The practicum is an extension of the classroom to the workplace where the student accomplishes the work performance objectives by demonstrating, performing or practicing the competencies at the workplace. This accomplishment will be appraised by the student’s instructor and the supervising employer. Student’s performance must be deemed a minimum of average (grade of “C”) in order to receive credit. One elective credit may be earned for 80 hours of employment per semester (maximum of two credits.)

World Literature: This course offers a comparison of global authors, short stories, plays, articles, essays, and poetry. Students will leave this course with a broader understanding of, and appreciation for, literary selections from around the world.

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