Course Selection Packet RISING JUNIORS
2014-2015 School Year
Graduation Requirements for the Class of 2016
As you select your classes please keep in mind that you must pass the following courses in order to earn a diploma in
Louisiana.
English: English I, II, III, IV
Math: Algebra 1, Geometry, Algebra II, and 1 additional math class
Science: Biology and Chemistry, and 2 additional core science classes
Social Science: U.S. History, Civics, World Geography, and 1 additional social studies class
Physical Education: Health Education, 1.5 Credits of PE
Foreign Language: Spanish I and II or French I and II
Art: 1 credit of Fine Arts Survey or NOCCA classes
Electives: 3 credits of anything that does not count as another graduation requirement
Credit total: 24
Graduation Tests: 1 Math EOC (Algebra I or Geometry); 1 English EOC (English II or English III) and 1 science or social
studies EOC (Biology or US History)
SciHigh Scheduling Policies
11th Grade
11th grade students take 7 full classes and they must include English, Math, and Science. Most students also need to take
Social Studies, Physical Education and Foreign Language. A typical set of choices for a junior is as follows:
 English III or AP English Language and Composition
 Chemistry, AP Biology, Environmental Science, AP Environmental Science, or elective science
 Algebra II, Pre-Calculus, or AP Statistics
 US History or AP US History
 Foreign Language
 PE if needed: Individual Fitness or Team Sports
 Any remaining class periods can be filled with electives, please see descriptions on the following pages.
Note: Students who do not pass all required classes in 9 th and 10th grade will not be able to advance in that subject area.
Note: Students who score “Needs Improvement” on an EOC test may be placed in a remedial course the following year in that
subject.
All About AP
AP at SciHigh:

All AP classes are open enrollment. Students do not need specific grades or teacher recommendations to enroll in
AP courses. Students do need to pass the course prerequisites, but there is no specific grade requirement.
 While we may recommend AP classes to students who have not chosen them, we never discourage a student from
choosing AP. This choice belongs to the student; however, students who choose to take 3 or more AP classes will
need signed permission from a parent or guardian.
 Students may not drop AP classes. Students may enter AP classes at any time, but may not drop them. Final
course selections are due by June 1st. No changes may be made to student course selections after that time.
General Facts about AP:
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
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AP stands for Advanced Placement, and it is a way for students to earn college credit in high school.
AP classes require summer work and at least 5 hours of hard work outside of class per week
Students in AP courses take an AP exam at the end of the course in May. These tests usually cost $76 per student;
however, AP tests are free to SciHigh students.
Courses Offered in 2014-2015
Note: Some core classes and graduation requirements are not listed below, including English I-IV, Algebra I-II, Geometry,
Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Environmental Science, Spanish I-II, French I-II, World Geography, World History, US History, Civics,
and Health Education. These are classes taught at a college-prep level to students in the order specified in the school’s pupil
progression plan. Students with questions should speak with their Advisory teacher for more information on these courses.
Junior Core Classes
AP English Language and Composition
1 credit
Students in this introductory college-level course read and carefully analyze a broad range of nonfiction prose selections,
deepening their awareness of rhetoric and how language works. Through close reading and frequent writing, students
develop their ability to work with language and text with a greater awareness of purpose and strategy, while strengthening
their own composing abilities. Course readings feature challenging expository, analytical, personal, and argumentative texts
from a variety of authors and historical contexts. Students examine and work with essays, letters, speeches, images, and
imaginative literature.
Summer reading and writing are required prior to the beginning of junior year. Students prepare for the AP® English
Language and Composition Exam and may be granted advanced placement, college credit, or both as a result of satisfactory
performance on the AP Language exam. As this is a college-level course, performance expectations are appropriately high,
and the workload is challenging. Students are expected to commit to a minimum of five hours of course work per week
outside of regular class time. Prerequisite: English I and II. *Bonus: Students with a 15 or higher on the PLAN can earn college
credit through Delgado Community College for taking this course.
AP US History
1 credit
This college level United States History Course provides an intensive search for the answer to the question of how America
has become the distinct nation that it is today. Students are continually challenged to develop various perspectives, even as
they are expected to become familiar with objective factual events. Topics range from the Age of Discovery and the
American Revolution to World War II and the Cold War. Over time, students are encouraged to improve their abilities to
synthesize information and express their opinions persuasively both on paper and in person. Summer reading and writing
are required prior to the beginning of junior year. Prerequisite: World Geography, World History
Math Classes (Only for juniors who have already passed Algebra II)
AP Statistics
1 credit
The purpose of the AP course in statistics is to introduce students to the major concepts and tools for collecting, analyzing
and drawing conclusions from data. Students are exposed to four broad conceptual themes: exploring data, sampling and
experimentation, anticipating patterns, and statistical inference. Students interested in medicine, psychology, finance, and
anything where statistics are analyzed and predicted should take this course. Prerequisite: Geometry, Algebra I, Algebra II
Pre-Calculus
1 credit
Pre-Calculus develops an understanding of fundamental algebraic ideas in realistic settings. Topics studied include data and
probability, variables, operations and properties of real numbers, equivalent expressions and equations, solving and
graphing linear equations and inequalities, and systems of equations and inequalities. Special emphasis is placed on
developing an understanding of functions. Prerequisite: Algebra I, Algebra II, Geometry. *Bonus: Students with a 15 or higher
on the PLAN can earn college credit through Delgado Community College for taking this course.
Remedial Advanced Math (College Prep Algebra)
1 credit
This is a class designed for juniors who passed Algebra II with a low grade and low test grades and are not ready for PreCalculus or AP Statistics. Students will develop a basic understanding of functions to explore and understand the natural
world. Note: students who take Remedial Advanced Math in 11 th grade will be required to take an advanced math as seniors.
AP Calculus
1 credit
This course provides a thorough introduction to single-variable calculus. In Algebra we ask questions of the form: given this
value of x, what is the value of y? In Calculus we ask the far more interesting, subtle, and powerful question: given this value
of x, how fast is y changing then? Students will master the core ideas and techniques of differentiation and integration which
revolutionized civilization during the 17th century. It is highly recommended that students prepare over the summer by
reviewing trigonometry, exponential and logarithmic functions, and simplifying complex algebraic expressions and
equations. Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus or recommendation from Mr. Dilligan. *Bonus: Students with a 15 or higher on the PLAN
can earn college credit through Delgado Community College for taking this course.
Science Classes
AP Biology
1 credit
This course is a survey of biology from the smallest to the highest levels, covering evolution and phylogeny, ecology,
biochemistry and microbiology, some animal body systems, botany, genetics and biotechnology. There is something here for
everyone with an interest in the life sciences! At least 30% of the course is taught through interactive, inquiry-based labs,
specifically designed to reinforce the learning in class. For those who are interested in any career in the health industries—
nurses, doctors, technicians—this course will give you a taste of the learning required for these fields. While challenging,
with nearly nightly homework and rigorous classwork, the AP exam at the end of the year can provide up to 8 hours of
college credit. Prerequisite: Biology I. Recommended Coequisite: Chemistry I, Algebra II.
AP Environmental Science
1 credit
Passionate about the environment? Like science that you can see rather than have to imagine? The goal of the AP
Environmental Science course is to provide students with the scientific principles, concepts, and methodologies required to
understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problems both natural and
human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for
resolving and/or preventing them. The class is rigorous, taking a lot of outside reading, writing, and studying; however, you
have the potential to earn college credit through the AP exam administered in May. Prerequisite: Algebra I
Anatomy and Physiology I
1 credit
Human Anatomy and Physiology is an introduction to the human body, focusing on how it maintains homeostasis from
anatomical, physiological, and evolutionary perspective. Because it is meant to engage students with their interests,
students will spend more time focusing on general concepts than memorizing vocabulary. This class is part one, focusing on
the structure and support systems of the body. We will engage with as many hands-on activities and labs to bring the
integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous, and circulatory systems out from the world of the textbook and into your real
life. Prerequisite: Biology
Intro to Engineering/Robotics
1 credit
This course provides an introduction to engineering and design. Students will investigate the various aspects of the
engineering field with special emphasis in design using Arduino robots. This hands-on science and technology class will
cover computer coding, principals of engineering, and careers in technology.
Astronomy
1 credit
The objective of this course is to use the basic principles of geometry, physics, and chemistry to explain and predict the
motions and properties of celestial objects. The first semester deals with the development of astronomy from the
pseudoscientific astrology, models for the solar system, characteristics of the planets and their moons, asteroids, and
comets. The second semester deals with the sun, stars, galaxies, and the history of the universe. Required Prerequisites:
Geometry
Technology Classes
AP Computer Science
1 credit
This is a rigorous computer class where students will learn JAVA and have the chance to take the Computer Science AP test.
Students who excelled in Computer IC3, who are interested in careers in computer science, or who enjoy spending 10+
hours a week working on a computer are recommended to take this class. Prerequisite: proficiency with computers. *Bonus:
Students with a 15 or higher on the PLAN English and Math may be eligible to earn college credit for successful completion of
the Java certification exam.
IC3
1 credit
Internet and Computing Core Certification (IC3®) is an internationally recognized standard for digital literacy. This
intensive training program will prepare students for the three certification examinations, Computer Fundamentals, Key
Applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint), and Living Online (Outlook), which students can then conveniently take the test
here on Sci High's campus. Bonus: Students with a 15 or higher on the PLAN English and Math may be eligible to earn college
credit for successful completion of the IC3 certification exam.
Electives
Art 1: Beginning/Intermediate Art
1 credit
In this studio art class, students will be exposed to a variety of artistic methods, techniques, and media in which to create
and develop their own art. Students will explore drawing, painting, sculpture and print-making. Students will be graded
primarily on participation and enthusiasm rather than skill or competence. A full credit of studio art is required for all
students graduating in 2012 or later, and this course fulfills that requirement.
Digital Graphics (technology & art class)
1 credit
This year- long course is designed for students with a strong interest in computer graphics and design. Through a variety of
projects and tasks, students will build their digital skill set. Students who choose this class should be prepared to be graded
on their projects, and written assessments. Students should also prepared for an environment that encourages and requires
creativity.
Newspaper Writing and Production (English & Technology class)
1 credit
This course is focused on the study of and hands-on experience in producing a newspaper publications, as well as critical
analysis of the purposes and ethics of media. Course activities and requirements engage students’ writing and editing skills
and ability to analyze complex non-fiction texts. Students will also gain an understanding of graphic design and publishing
technology with a strong correlation to various careers and fields of study related to production. Students will generate
content for the Sci High Times, with a goal of quarterly release of newspaper.
Spanish III and IV
1 credit
This course is adapted to the linguistic needs and interests of the advanced level students. Throughout Spanish III/IV, you
will be expected to master communicative Spanish grammar and possess a large operational vocabulary. The content of the
course is based primarily on reading, so written and spoken responses to those readings are expected daily. You will be
exposed to a variety of literature and contemporary cultural issues occurring in hispanoblante (Spanish speaking) countries
around the world. While this course will review and practice grammatical concepts throughout the year, the main focus will
be on speaking the language daily and increasing reading comprehension. Prerequisite: A passing grade in Spanish II and a
serious desire to advance your language skills.
PE Classes
Physical Education: Individual Fitness (CPR/FIRST AID CERTIFICATION)
1 credit
Building on what students learned in 9th grade, this full-year PE class fulfills 2 semesters of PE credit required for
graduation. Students will learn and practice yoga, pilates, dance, zumba, aerobics, breathing techniques, and relaxation
exercises. In addition students will work towards earning Red Cross certification in First Aid and Cardio-pulmonary
respiration (CPR). In this course you will not only be expected to participate daily in physical activity, but also to master the
ideas, professional response to injury, and the science behind such activities. Students will be able to explain why certain
exercises produce certain results and how to treat and triage like a professional rescuer.
Physical Education: Team Sports
1 credit
This course will emphasize health related physical fitness through a variety of team sports. Students will demonstrate
developed skills in basketball, volleyball, softball, ultimate frisbee, track and field, social dance, distance running, and
other team building activities. In this course you will not only be expected to participate daily in physical activity, but also
to master the ideas and the science behind such activities. Students will be able to explain why certain exercises produce
certain results.