ETHAN HIGH SCHOOL REGISTRATION HANDBOOK 2009-10
When registering for your classes, you need to be aware of the requirements for high school
graduation.
Effective Fall of 2006
www.doe.sd.gov/oatq/gradrequirements/index.asp
STANDARD
Graduation Requirements
ADVANCED
Graduation Requirements
1.5 Writing and 1.5 Literature including .5
American Literature and .5 Speech
English/Reading and Communication
Arts (4 units)
1.5 Writing and 1.5 Literature including
.5 American Literature and .5 Speech
DISTINGUISHED Graduation Requirements
(*) denotes offerings required to meet the South
Dakota
Opportunities Scholarship
English/Reading and Communication Arts (4
units) *
1.5 Writing and 1.5 Literature including .5 American
Literature and .5 Speech
Social Studies
(3 units)
.5 Geography, .5 World History, 1U.S. History
and .5 Government
Social Studies
(3 units)
.5 Geography, .5 World History, 1U.S.
History and .5 Government
Social Studies
(3 units)
.5 Geography, .5 World History, 1U.S. History and .5
Government
Mathematics – (must include Algebra 1)
units)
Mathematics
(3 units)
(must include Algebra 1, Algebra II, and
Geometry or higher)
Science
(3 units)
(must include Biology and Chemistry or
Physics)
Mathematics
(4 units) *
(must include Algebra 1, Algebra II, and
Geometry or higher and higher level Math Elec.
Science
(4 units) *
(must include Biology and Chemistry,or Physics)
Physical Education
(.5 units)
Fine Arts
(1.0 units)
Personal Finance or Economics
(.5
units)
Required Offerings: students must select (2
units)
with any combination of )
a. World Language, or
b. Computer studies or
c. Approved Career and Technical Education
courses; or
d. Mathematics courses in addition to meeting
the
math requirement above; or
e. Science courses in addition to meeting the
science requirement above; or
Physical Education .5
units)
Fine Arts
(1.0 units)
Personal Finance or Economics
(.5 units)
Required Offerings: students must
select (2 units with
any combination of )
a. World Language, or
b. Computer studies or
c. Approved Career and Technical
Education
courses; or
d. Mathematics courses in addition to
meeting the
math requirement above; or
e. Science courses in addition to
meeting the
science requirement above; or
Physical Education
.5 units)
Fine Arts
(1.0 units)
Personal Finance or Economics
(.5
units)
World Language (2 years same Language)
(2
units)*
Electives
Total Credits
Electives
Total Credits
Electives
Total Credits
English/Reading & Communication Art(4units)
Science
Min. 2 units of lab science
(3
(2 units)
( 6 units)
(22 units)
(5 units)
(22 units)
Computer studies
(2.5 units)
( 22units)
CORE COURSE OF STUDY for SD State Scholars
COURSES
ENGLISH
English I, English II, English III, English IV
YEARS
4
MATHEMATICS
Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II
3
SCIENCE
Biology, Chemistry, Physics
3
SOCIAL STUDIES
Chosen from U.S. History, World History, World Geography, Economics, Government
.5 units
3.5
LANGUAGES
2 years of a language other than English
2
The minimum requirements for entrance into a state colleges and universities as determined by the
South Dakota Board of Regents are (1) to complete the Advanced or SD Scholars graduation
pathway. (2) You must be in the top 60% of your graduating class OR have an ACT Composite
Score of 18* or above OR have a H.S. GPA of 2.6 on a 4.0 scale
ACT requirements vary with College and Universities. Check specific college guidelines. meloo
Pre-registering for Classes
Ethan High School students are required to carry at least six solid classes each semester.
Instrumental and vocal music are not considered solid classes. Instrumental music counts as 1/2
fine arts credit per year and vocal music counts as 1/2 fine arts credit per year. Make sure that you
plan ahead to get the classes you need and want so you are prepared for graduation and beyond. On
the separate pre-registration sheet, you are to select the classes you wish to take from those listed
under your grade heading. You may not select outside your grade area without the approval of the
principal. Remember that we operate on an eight period block schedule as you choose your classes.
If you have questions, talk to the counselor, principal, or the teachers.
ETHAN HIGH SCHOOL
COURSE OFFERINGS
ENGLISH COURSES
English I --- 2 Semesters
Grade 9
Required
(Introduction to Literature/Beginning Composition & Grammar)
One semester of composition/grammar involving units on parts of speech with emphasis on
nouns, pronouns, and prepositions; narrative writing, theme writing, and letter writing
One semester of literature involving an epic unit (The Odyssey), a poetry unit plus "The
Pardoner's Tale", a Shakespearean unit (Romeo & Juliet) and a short story unit.
English II --- 2 Semesters
Grade 10
Required
(The Hero in Literature/Speech)
One semester of speech in which we work on public speaking, interpersonal
communication, mass media, small group and large group communication, interviewing, selfesteem, oral interpretation, informative speeches, and persuasive speeches as time allows!
One semester of Literature involving a novel unit (To Kill a Mockingbird), a drama unit
(The Miracle Worker and Our Town - if time), a Shakespearean unit (Julius Caesar), and a King
Arthur unit with "The Wife of Bath's Tale".
English III --- 2 Semesters
Grade 11
Required
(American Literature/Intermediate Composition & Grammar)
One semester of grammar/composition involves writing persuasively, and writing
descriptively plus grammar units covering conjunctions, sentence sense, adjectives, and adverbs.
One semester of American literature including "The Colonial Period" = Franklin, Henry,
Paine, Jefferson; "A Growing Nation" = Bryant, Irving, Cooper, Poe; "New England Renaissance"
=Longfellow, Lowell, Holmes, Whittier, Dickinson, Melville, Hawthorne, Emerson, Thoreau;
"Division, War, and Reconciliation" = Whitman, Lincoln, Lee, Joseph, Douglass, spirituals; and
"Realism and the Frontier" = Twain, Harte, Bierce, London, Robinson, Masters. (If time, we
continue chronologically!)
English IV --- 2 Semesters
Grade 12
Required
(British Literature/Report Writing & Advanced Grammar)
One semester of grammar/writing involving the researching and writing of two to four short
term papers, a capitalization/punctuation unit, and a usage unit.
One semester of British literature including The Story of English VCR's 1-2-3; "Beowulf"
and Old English; The Canterbury Tales and Middle English; and Macbeth and Modern English. (If
time, we continue chronologically through Brit lit!)
Creative Writing – 1 Semester
Grades 10-12 Elective
Express yourself imaginatively in short stories, poetry, dramatic sketches, and a widely
varied smorgasbord of writing opportunities. Let a writing journal be your inspiration. Write and
write and write! Expect to sweat over revision and to celebrate your verbal successes. A rich
vocabulary and willingness to try a variety of styles make a successful creative writer. A
comprehensive writing portfolio and a book report over a novel or two volumes of poetry are
required for the semester.
SCIENCE COURSES
Physical Science --- 2 Semesters
Grade 9
Required
Physical Science is a freshmen requirement. The emphasis of this class is on using the
scientific method to study science and solve problems. Some topics include: Periodic table, atoms,
chemical reactions, motion, forces, simple machines, heat energy, electric charges, and waves.
Correct procedures and safety in the lab is stressed.
Biology --- 2 Semesters
Grade 10
Required
Biology is a sophomore requirement. This course is an overview of the vast diversity of life
on our planet as well as the structure and function of some of these organisms. Topics on the
different classes of animals from the most primitive life form to the most complex mammal are
studied. Several small animal dissections are included to help in understanding animal and human
anatomy. Plant structure is observed as well as an understanding of their importance in our
ecosystems. Other topics include: genetics, cell biology, ecology and the scientific method.
Advanced Biology --- 2 Semesters
Grades 11 & 12
Elective
This course is considered a college prep course. It takes a deep look at several common
topics as well as the importance of science and technology in today’s society. A mandatory cat
dissection is required in correlation with human physiology. Some other topics include: Plant
anatomy and growth, DNA technology, histology, cell biology, cellular respiration, genetics,
animal development and ecology.
Chemistry --- 2 Semesters
Grades 11 & 12
Alternates with Physics
Chemistry is a course designed to prepare students for college chemistry and give students a
basic understanding of scientific principles in everyday life. Through study of a textbook, lab
exercises and outside reading, students will investigate these principles and relationships of
chemistry: atomic theory, moles and molecular weights, phase changes, periodic table and atomic
structure, rates of reactions, equilibrium in reactions, oxidation and reduction, molecular
architecture, and electromagnetic radiation. A strong background in math is required.
Physics --- 2 Semesters
Grades 11 & 12
Alternates with Chemistry
Physics is considered a college prep course although it can be very helpful in pursuing any
technical career. Through the use of a textbook, labs, and assigned problems, several common
topics will be investigated. Some topics include: motion/gravitation, work and energy, fluids,
vibrations and waves, sound, heat, thermodynamics, electrical energy, magnetism, and light.
Instructor’s signature required for registration.
Medical Terminology
Grades 11 & 12
Elective
This class goes into great detail of the structure and function of the human body. It is highly
recommended for students with any interest in any type of healthcare profession. Areas of study
include organization of the body, the body systems, and much more. This class is designed to be an
independent study course.
Zoology --- 2 Semesters
Grades 10, 11 & 12
Elective
This course is designed to introduce students to all levels of animals, from one-celled to
many celled. Students will learn how animals become more complex as they progress through the
different phylum. This course will allow students to "dig deeper" into the animal kingdom. Students
will participate in labs (dissections), reports, projects and lecture.
Astronomy
Grades 11 & 12
Elective
This course is an introduction to the basic concepts of Earth and Space. As an introductory
course, Astronomy covers a wide range of information in a short amount of time. Earth Science
involves the study of the earth, atmosphere and weather. Space science involves the study of
motion, solar system and universe. Material is closely related to the universe around us. An
emphasis is placed on note-taking skills, computer research, projects and proper lab etiquette. The
students will participate in lecture, discussion, labs, projects and computer activities.
Genetics
Grades 11 & 12
Elective
Genetics is intended to expand the student's knowledge of genetic concepts first fostered in
Biology. This course is designed to examine the gene in transmission, a unit of function, and a unit
of mutation. In addition, the distribution and activity of genes in populations will be considered in
context with current theories of evolution. The major goals of the genetics class is to have a
working knowledge of Mendelian genetics; to establish a conceptual framework that represents a
sound approach to learning and facilitates the comprehension of the vast amounts of information
constituting the field of genetics; and to emphasize the rich history of scientitific discovery and
analytical thought, so prevalent in genetics, that provides an opportunity for students to hone their
problem-solving abilities (the fruit fly lab) and to explore how we know what we know. Students
will be assessed based on laboratory work, worksheets, quizzes, tests, and group’s projects.
MATH COURSES
Basic Algebra—2 Semesters
Grade 9
Consult with Staff
This course is designed for students who may not be ready for College Prep Algebra I. It
will reinforce the algebraic fundamentals that were learned in 8th grade mathematics as well as
build on those fundamentals.
Algebra I (College Prep) --- 2 Semesters
Grade 9 -12
Required
This course involves working with variables to solve equations and problems. Topics
covered throughout the year include: Polynomials, factoring polynomials, fractions and their
application, functions, systems of linear equations, inequalities, and rational and irrational numbers.
There will be exposure to many word problems throughout the course.
Integrated Math I --- 2 Semesters
Grade 10-12 Elective
Students explore the world of integrated mathematics with occupational related themes. The
student develops skills in measurements, in the use of technology, in drawing and reading graphs,
and in estimation. These skills will be used in real-world applications integrating algebra,
geometry, and data handling. This course is designed to place the student in an active role in the
learning process. Laboratory activities are a part of every unit.
Prerequisite: None
Integrated Math II--- 2 Semesters
Grade 10-12 Elective
Continuation of Integrated Math I developing skills that are used in real-world applications
integrating algebra, geometry, and data handling. Laboratory activities are a part of every unit.
Geometry --- 2 Semesters
Grade 10
Recommended
The first semester of geometry involves the basic figures of geometry (points, lines, and
planes), deductive reasoning, parallel lines and planes, triangles, quadrilaterals, and inequalities in
geometry. Two column and paragraph proofs will be studies in detail.
The second semester of geometry will concentrate on the study of similar polygons, right
triangles, circles, and the construction of various geometrical figures discussed throughout the year.
We will then take an in depth look the areas of plane figures plus the area and volume of solids.
Time permitting; we will then take a look at coordinate geometry and basic mappings involved
with geometry.
Algebra II --- 2 Semesters
Grade 11-12 Recommended
The course will involve a quick review of concepts learned in Algebra I. Then the book
will introduce students to new topics of algebra including: imaginary numbers, coordinate
geometry, factoring of larger polynomials, finding multiple roots to equations, series and
sequences, matrices, and trigonometry.
AP Calculus --- 2 Semesters
Grade 12
This course will prepare math students for the Advanced Placement Calculus test given in
the spring. Students passing this test will receive college calculus credits.
Senior Math --- 2 Semesters
Grade 12
Senior Math is a course that will prepare all college bound students with the math skills
necessary to pass college level math courses. Senior math will concentrate on the following areas:
functions (linear, quadratic, polynomial), inequalities, logarithms, trigonometry, combinatory,
statistics and probability, matrices, and an introduction to calculus.
SOCIAL SCIENCE COURSES
Geography --- 2 Semester
Grade 9
Required
This is a study of various regions that examines cultural, political, economic, and religious
aspects of the world's people in relationship to their environment.
World History --- 2 Semesters
Grade 10
Required
This involves a study of early civilizations to the present date, evaluating the contributions
these cultures have made to the advancement of today's world in government, science, religion,
economics, and social reform.
U.S. History --- 2 Semesters
Grade 11
Required
This is a study of American heritage that encompasses the nature of war, political and
economic systems, religious and social reforms and allowing the student the ability to perceive
cause and effect through the roles of leaders that are both evolutionary and revolutionary.
Psychology --- 2 Semesters
Grades 10, 11 & 12 Elective
Students will develop an insight into their own psychological processes and those of others.
Students will become aquatinted with the principles and procedures of psychology by exploring the
study of behavior and mental processes. Students will be encouraged to recognize their own and
others personal values and the significance of such values.
American Government --- 2 Semesters
Grade 12
Required
This is a study of various governments in comparison to the United States along with
studying the executive, legislative, and judicial processes of our own government and studying
state and local levels of government in South Dakota.
Sociology --- 2 semesters
Grades11 & 12
Elective
This is the study of human relationships. Students will be provided with a comprehensive
examination of the basic concepts, principles, and methods, central to the study of cultures and
societies throughout the world.
Economics --- 2 Semesters
Grade 10
Elective
Students will be introduced to such concepts as micro-economics, macro-economics, supply
and demand, and global economics. Students will learn how to be responsible consumers and what
affects the world and local economies.
FINE ARTS COURSES
Vocal Music --- 4 Semesters for 1 Art Credit
Grade 9-12
Elective
High school vocal music is offered as an opportunity for any student in grades 9-12 to sing
in a large group of mixed voices. Incorporated in this study are vocal technique, notation, exposure
to a broad variety of music styles, and numerous performance opportunities. The high school choir
performs for homecoming coronation, Veteran’s Day, a holiday concert, spring concert, and
Commencement. Other opportunities for community involvement are offered. Choir students also
are encouraged to participate in All-State Chorus auditions, region solo, ensemble contest, and
select groups.
Instrumental Music ---4 Semesters for 1 Art Credit
Grade 9-12
Elective
The high school band provides students an opportunity to express themselves musically and
to develop skills in instrumental music. High school band members will be exposed to a variety of
music literature. Rehearsals are usually three days per week.
Some of the year activities of the band are performance at two to three formal concerts and
most home sporting events. All high school band members are encouraged to perform a solo/or
ensemble at the Region V Instrumental Music Contest, attend the Region V Band Festival or
perform in the District Band. All-State Band auditions and the Augustana Band Festival are also an
option for the serious musician.
Art I --- 2 Semesters
Grade 9-12
Elective
This class is a prerequisite to all other visual arts courses. Each unit will integrate art history, art
criticism, aesthetics, and studio art. An emphasis is placed on the learning and application of the
elements of design. Principles will be introduced. The school will supply instructional tools and
materials for this class. Students will be responsible for a short list of supplies.
Art II--- 2 Semesters
Grade 9-12
Elective
Art II is an advanced applications studio course for the serious art student. Emphasis is on
advanced art skills in drawing, painting, design, graphic design, pottery, and sculpture. Students
must be committed to working on projects inside and outside of class and must be willing to
experiment with different media, subject matter as well as art styles. This class will allow students
to investigate and develop their own creativity. Art history, criticism, aesthetics as well as studio
work will be integrated into each student’s independent course of study throughout the semester.
The school will supply instructional tools and materials for class.
BUSINESS COURSES
Accounting I --- 2 Semesters
Grades 10-12
Elective
This class involves learning how to operate a business owned by a single owner or a
partnership. Students learn how to journalize, post, as well as how to prepare financial statements
and figure payroll. (Two to three simulations are done to give hands-on experience and automated
accounting is introduced.)
Accounting II --- 2 Semesters
Grades 12
Elective
This class is a continuation of the concepts learned in Accounting I. It involves in greater
depth the applications used in corporations, as well as different types of accounting systems. (Two
to three simulations are done to give hands-on experience and automated accounting is studied in
greater depth.)
Business Math -- 2 Semesters
Grades 10-12
Elective
This class covers basic math concepts that are necessary for business applications
such as calculating interest and percent. Students apply math to comparison shopping, balancing
checkbooks and budgeting. This class includes review and practice problems dealing with basic
math facts.
Business Law -- 2 Semesters
Grades 10-12
Elective
A full year course designed to allow the student to discover and explore the legal
environment of business. Each student will develop a basic understanding of the law and how it
affects both individuals and businesses. The study will include the various aspects of contract law
and the interactive rights of both consumers and businesses. The course will develop an insite to
financial laws and bankruptcy, as well as, the legal relationships between employer and employee.
This introductory course will lay the groundwork for students who hope to go into business for
themselves or go on to study business management, accounting, finance, economics, or law.
Business math should be taken prior to this course.
FAMILY AND CONSUMER SCIENCE COURSES
Comprehensive FACS--------2 semesters
Grades 9-12
Elective
This year long course for 9-12 grades introduce the student to the various content areas of
Family and Consumer Science. Areas to be included are: careers, family, community connections,
human development, childcare, interpersonal relationships, nutrition and wellness, and consumer
resources.
Nutrition and Wellness------1 semester
Grades 10-12
Elective
This is a core nutrition and wellness course. This semester course for 9-12 grades is
designed to provide students with basic knowledge of proper nutrition and wellness. Topics
covered include nutritional needs in relation to health and wellness, food and kitchen safety, proper
use of equipment and technology, healthy meal preparation, and career opportunities in nutrition
and wellness.
Parenting------1 semester
Grades 10-12
Elective
This is a core parenting course. Parenting is a semester course designed to help the student
be better able to cope with the role of parenting whether or not they choose to be a parent in the
future. The student will develop skills and understanding relating to active parenting, children’s
personality and behavior, encouragement, developing responsibility, communication, and
diplomacy. The student will be able to apply these concepts to their future children and/or other
relationships.
Career Connections -----1 semesters
Grades 11-12
Elective
This course for 11-12 grades is designed to prepare the student for life and work beyond the
school setting. Topics to be covered include: decision-making, communication skills,
relationships, job skills, financial management, taxes, social security, consumer credit, housing and
transportation, insurance, nutrition and wellness, consumer decision, and community involvement.
Personal Finance ----- 1 semester
Grades 10-12
Elective
This course is a study of finance and financial institutions. Credit and the use of credit are
studied, along with all areas of saving and investing. The students will follow the stock and bond
market. Many aspects of financial management and personal finance will be researched and
investigated. This class is required for students graduating in 2010 and beyond.
INDUSTRIAL TECHNOLOGY COURSES
Exploring Technology --- 2 Semesters
Grade 9
Elective
Units in woodworking, drafting, rocketry, CO2 racers, manufacturing, and
construction are covered.
Construction --- 1 Semester (First)
Grades 10-12
Elective
Safe use of power tools is taught, participating in the building of storage sheds, and
learning the basics of wood frame construction are parts of the curriculum of this course.
Computer aided drafting will also in introduced.
Manufacturing --- 1 Semester (Second)
Grades 10-12
Elective
Manufacturing concepts are reviewed. D & M vertical mill and turning lathes may be used.
Examples of things made are chess pieces and name plates. A project will be completed using
mass production techniques.
Energy Power/Transportation --- 1 Semester
Grades 10-12
Elective
Different types of engines are explored and used, such as internal combustion, steam,
Wankel, and jet engines. Electrical, geothermal, and solar power will also be discussed.
Communications --- 1 Semester
Grades 10-12
Elective
Different types of communication will be taught. CAD, satellites, modems, screen-printing,
radio, TV commercials, and DeskTop Publishing are included in this.
Tech Ed III & IV - Homebuilding --- 2 Semesters
Grades 10-12
Elective
Students in this class will take the lead in constructing a house from the ground up. They
will learn all of the steps, terms and proper techniques involved in home construction.
COMPUTER SCIENCE COURSES
Multimedia ---2 Semesters
Grades 10-12
Elective
This course involves the use of digital video, digital cameras, iMovie, HTML, Front Page,
Dreamwever and Flash. Throughout this course, students will learn how do develop a website,
create digital movies, edit photos, and create animations. As a final project, students use these
skills to create an interactive yearbook on cd. Students will use both Windows and Mac platforms
for developing projects. Students who take this class should feel comfortable using computers, be
creative, and highly motivated. One year of basic computer skills are required for this course.
IT Essentials—2 Semesters
Grades 11 &12
Elective
IT Essentials students will use A+ certification materials provided by Cisco to prepare for
computer related fields at technical schools and universities. Concept included are Information
technology Basics, How Computers Work, Assembling a Computer, Operating System
Fundamentals, Windows 9x OS's, Multimedia Capabilities, Windows NT/2000/XP OS, Hardware
Fundamentals, Networking, Printers, Preventive Maintenance, Troubleshooting Hardware and
Software. In addition students are allowed to build a computer from the ground up using hardware
in class. Curriculum and assessment are web based.
PHYSICAL EDUCATION COURSES
Physical Education---1 Semester
Grades 9
Required
Students will learn about exercise and physical education games and activities. The American
Red Cross “Community First Aid and Safety” program is taught in this course. Students can
become certified in CPR upon passing the required written and skill tests. This class is required for
students graduating in 2010 and beyond.
HS Fitness---1 Semester
Grades 10-12
Elective
The purpose of this course is to acquaint students with the basic knowledge, understanding,
and values of nutrition and physical activity relating to a healthy lifestyle. Students will assess and
work toward achieving personal fitness and knowledge of healthy diets. A variety of workouts will
be presented. This is an interdisciplinary class taught by family & consumer science and physical
education staff.
FOREIGN LANUAGE
Spanish I---1 Semester
Grade 9-12
Elective
Students will learn basic Spanish grammar and vocabulary, and develop skills in listening,
speaking, reading and writing. Students will also learn about Hispanic culture.
Spanish II---1 Semester
Grade10-12
Elective
Students will review basic grammar and vocabulary, and go on to a more in-depth study
where more emphasis will be placed on expanding the student's vocabulary and use of grammatical
structures. Students will also continue to learn about the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world.
Spanish III---1 Semester
Grade10-12
Elective
Spanish 3 reviews Spanish I and II with additional practice on original conversation and
composition. Additional reading will be introduced. Subjective grammar will be studied at this
level.
OTHER ELECTIVE COURSE
Student Aide ---1 Semester
Grades 10- 12
Elective
Students will be pair with staff member and assist them in day to day tasks. Students will
learn valuable communication skills and gain insight into the staff member job.
Dual Credit
Grades 11 & 12
Students are able to take college course for dual credit.
Elective