FIREBAUGH

HIGH SCHOOL

Registration Handbook 2009 -2010

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Introduction Dear Parent/Guardian:

As counselors of Firebaugh High School, Mr. Anguiano and Ms. Ramirez would like to welcome parents

in working towards their child’s educational goals. We would like to offer our assistance to any parent who may

have questions regarding class registration, graduation requirements, college entrance requirements, and resources

available or with other parents concerns. Mr. Anguiano works with all students whose last name begins with A-L

and Ms. Ramirez with M-Z. In this packet you will find information about Firebaugh High School’s graduation

requirements, courses and resources offered. If you have any questions or would like to make an appointment,

please call Firebaugh High School at 659-1415 ext. 1910.

Sincerely,

Counseling Department

Please note this student handbook is a working document and is intended to be used as a guide towards completion of high school requirements. Specific questions that relate to fulfillment of graduation requirements should be directed to the counselors.

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Table of Contents

Firebaugh High School Graduation Requirements....................................................................................... 3

California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE) ........................................................................................... 3

Senior Portfolio/Portfolio Day Requirements .............................................................................................. 3

Tutoring Services ....................................................................................................................................... 4

21st Century After School Program ............................................................................................................. 4

Alternative Ways to Recover Credit............................................................................................................ 4

Mexico Credit ............................................................................................................................................ 4

College Readiness/Support Programs ......................................................................................................... 4

California State University/University of California Subject Requirements ................................................. 5

College Entrance Exams............................................................................................................................. 6

College and Career Planning Website ......................................................................................................... 6

Course Descriptions ................................................................................................................................... 7

Agriculture .................................................................................................................................... 4

Art ................................................................................................................................................. 7

Child Development ........................................................................................................................ 7

Computers ..................................................................................................................................... 8

English .......................................................................................................................................... 9

Foreign Language ........................................................................................................................ 11

Mathematics ................................................................................................................................ 12

Music………………………………………………………………………………………………..14

Other ........................................................................................................................................... 15

Physical Education....................................................................................................................... 17

Science ........................................................................................................................................ 18

Social Studies .............................................................................................................................. 20

Trade & Industrial Arts ................................................................................................................ 22

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FIREBAUGH HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS

No student may receive a diploma from Firebaugh High School who has not completed the course of study prescribed by the governing board. Students will not be allowed to graduate or participate in graduation ceremonies until all of the following requirements are met. 1. Complete a total of 260 credits. The brake down of these credits is as follows:

a. 40 credits of English b. 30 credits of Math (Must pass 10 credits of Algebra I) c. 10 Earth Science d. 10 credits of Life Science e. 10 credits of Physical Science f. 20 credits of P.E. g. 30 credits of Social Studies h. 10 credits of Computers i. 10 credits of Fine Arts or Foreign Language j. 10 credits of Vocational Education k. 80 credits of Electives

2. Eight semesters of seven classes each. 3. Complete and pass senior portfolio and interview. 4. Have satisfactory citizenship. 5. Payment of all money owed to the school. 6. Return of the payment for all materials/uniforms/books checked out to student. 7. Credits earned at postsecondary institutions (i.e. community college) may be utilized for high school credit. You may receive credit at two institutions for the same course. Pre-approval by counselor is required. 8. Seniors are also required to pass the California High School Exit Exam (CAHSEE).

CALIFORNIA HIGH SCHOOL EXIT EXAM (CAHSEE)

This graduation requirement was authorized by state law (Senate Bill 2, statues of 1999). Seniors need to pass both sections of English and Math of the (CAHSEE) with a score of 350 or better in each section. The purpose of the High School Exit Exam is to:

help improve students achievement in high school ensure graduates meet identified state content standards in reading, writing, and mathematics

SENIOR PORFOLIO/PORFOLIO DAY REQUIREMENTS

All students are required to keep and maintain a portfolio. Portfolios are a graduation requirement and all seniors are expected to participate in the schools’ annual Portfolio Day project, which is held in May. Student’s portfolios are reviewed at that time by representatives from the community. The Firebaugh High School Portfolio Project is designed to accomplish two goals; to provide students with a means and opportunity to periodically review their own work and learning; and to prepare the students for a final senior portfolio interview in which they will “show off” their best work and communication skills in a mock interview. Satisfactory completion of the portfolio and a passing score on the senior portfolio interview are requirements for graduation from Firebaugh High School.

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TUTORING SERVICES

If a student needs academic assistance in a class, there are many tutoring services available.

Tutoring is available before and after school Tutoring is available with teachers and Cal-SOAP Tutors The Library is open to study on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday before school and after school.

21st CENTURY AFTER SCHOOL PROGRAM

Many fun activities take place after school. All activities are free of cost to students. Buses are available at 6:00pm everyday in front of the school. Every student in attendance will receive an after school snack. Please contact your teachers or the Counseling office for tutoring and after school program schedules.

ALTERNATE WAYS TO RECOVER CREDIT See your Counselor for more information.

West Hills College ( 3 credits = 10 credits at Firebaugh High School) Odyssey Ware Online Program PASS Program (Migrant Students only) Cafeteria Aide

MEXICO CREDIT

We ask that parents do not take their son/daughter to Mexico during the school year. If students leave to Mexico during the school year there is a possibility that the student will fall behind in credits and will be in danger of not graduating. Finals are given during the last week before Winter Vacation and students may not take their finals early. If students take their finals late, they must meet the provisions of the Education Code 48205. The State of California clearly defines excused student absences as:

Illness or Injury Medical or Dental

Court Subpoena Death in the immediate family

The documentation of the excused student absences includes doctor’s notes, death certificates, and court subpoenas. Failure to remain in school the whole year may result in earning partial credit or no credit.

COLLEGE READINESS/SUPPORT PROGRAMS

See your Counselor for more information.

It is strongly recommended that any student who is interested in pursuing a college education or vocational training participate in college readiness and support programs, which are outreach programs designed to provide services that will assist students on how to prepare and enroll into any college. These programs offer the following services: career counseling, SAT/ACT advising, academic planning, financial aid information, college field trips, scholarship information, and admission assistance. Each program offers different services. The following college readiness/support programs are offered at Firebaugh High School:

AVID Cal-SOAP Fast-Forward Ivy League Project

Educational Talent Search West Hills College Outreach Fresno City College Outreach California State University, Fresno Outreach

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THE CALIFORNIA STATE UNIVERSITY/UNIVERSITY OF CALIFORNIA

Subject Requirements

Please select from Firebaugh High School’s approved A-G List. Please note a grade of “C” or better must be earned in these A-G courses.

9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th Grade English

(4 years are Required)

English 9 or

Honors English 9

English 10 or

Honors English 10

English 11 or

AP English Language

English

Literature Or

AP English Literature

Mathematics

(3 Years are Required/4 years

Recommended)

Algebra I

Geometry

Algebra II

Pre-Calculus/ AP Calculus

(Recommended)

Social Science

(1 Year of World History and 1 Year of U. S History)

World History

U.S. History or AP U.S History

Laboratory Science

1 Year Biology and 1 Year Chemistry

(2 Years Required - 3Years Recommended

Biology\Ag Biology

Chemistry/ Ag Chemistry

Physics (Recommended)

Foreign Language

2 Years of Spanish Required –

3+ Years Recommended)

Spanish 1

Spanish 2

Spanish 3-4 (Recommended)

AP Spanish (Recommended)

Visual and Performing Arts

(1 Year In the Same Subject)

Art 1/ Wind Ensemble

ROP Computer Graphic Design

(2 Periods)

College Preparatory Electives

(1 Year from College Preparatory areas listed above)

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COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAMS

College entrance exams are one of many criteria used by most colleges and universities to make admissions decisions. Some schools accept both the ACT and SAT; others accept only one. Make sure you know which standardized test is required for admission to the college(s) of your choice. Your high school counselor can help you determine which test to take and when and how to register.

ACT Plus Writing-- tests your English, reading, math, and science skills.

SAT I-- tests your critical reading, math and writing skills.

SAT Subject-- tests your knowledge in a specific subject area, often related to a specific area of study. The UC system asks for particular subject areas.

Registration websites: ACT: www.actstudent.org SAT/SAT Subject: www.collegeboard.com

Seniors need to take all of these tests no later than December of their senior year to be considered for admission in four-year colleges.

COLLEGE AND CAREER PLANNING WEBSITE

The College and Career Planning Website will help you find information about preparing, applying, paying for college and plenty of other information. You can also get information about Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force, National Guard, etc. You will also find several online tools and calculators to help you plan for your future. The counseling office is happy to give our students a great amount of resources to help prepare them for the future. Visit the website often and use the resources available to you. The website is currently linked to the FHS webpage (under student info.) The direct link is www.e-fao.com/ FirebaughHS/Counselingcenter

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COURSE DESCRIPTIONS Please note that some of these classes may not be offered due to pending funding or the lack of students registered for the class. Classes Page Number

Agriculture .................................................................................................................................... 8

Art ............................................................................................................................................... 11

Child Development ...................................................................................................................... 11

Computers ................................................................................................................................... 12

English ........................................................................................................................................ 13

Foreign Language ........................................................................................................................ 15

Mathematics ................................................................................................................................ 16

Music .......................................................................................................................................... 18

Other ........................................................................................................................................... 19

Physical Education....................................................................................................................... 21

Science ........................................................................................................................................ 22

Social Studies .............................................................................................................................. 24

Trade & Industrial Arts ................................................................................................................ 26

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AGRICULTURE AG BIOLOGY 10 Year Course - Meets Life Science Graduation Requirement) (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - AG Earth Science is recommended Agriculture Biology is a one-year, laboratory science course, designed for the college bound student with career interests in agriculture. Using agriculture as a learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles, central concepts and inter-relationships among the following topics: the molecular and cellular aspects of life, the chemical and structural basis of life, energy of life, growth and reproduction in plant and animal genetics ecological relationships among plants, animals, humans and the environment, nutrition in animals, health and diseases in animals and the similarities between animals and humans. The course is centered on an extensive laboratory component in order to connect the big ideas of all life science with agricultural applications, earth and physical science principles and other curricular areas, including written and oral reporting skills.

AG CHEMISTRY 11 Year Course – Meets Physical Science Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirement) Prerequisite - AG Earth Science and AG Biology is recommended Agriculture Chemistry is a one-year laboratory science course, designed for the college bound student with career interest in agriculture, science, and technology. Using agriculture as a learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles, central concepts and inter-relationships among the following topics: periodic law and trends, atomic and molecular structures, state of matter, chemical bonding, conservation of matter and stoichiometry, gases and their properties, properties of acids and an introduction to organic and biochemistry. The course is centered on an extensive laboratory component in order to connect the big ideas of chemistry with agricultural applications, earth and life science principles and other curricular areas, including written, mathematical and oral reporting skills AG EARTH SCIENCE 9 Year Course – Meets Earth Science Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Electives Requirement) Prerequisite - None Agriculture Earth Science is a one-year, laboratory science course, designed for the college bound student with career interests in Agriculture. Using agriculture as a learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles and practices of Earth Science as a way to demonstrate the relevance of Earth Science in agriculture to each student’s life and environment. The class is designed to teach Earth Science through a problem solving, community based model, where the teacher is the facilitator. This class will utilize local and regional issues and concerns to stimulate problem-solving activities and to foster a sense of Earth stewardship by students in their communities. The class will establish and expanded learning environment, which incorporates fieldwork, technological access to data, and traditional classroom and laboratory activities. The course is centered around an extensive laboratory component in order to connect the big ideas of all earth science with agricultural applications, physical science principles, and other curricular areas, including written and oral reporting skills. ADVANCED ANIMAL SCIENCE 11-12 Year Course - Elective Prerequisite - Junior or Senior standing The course will follow the current advanced agriculture science curriculum with an emphasis on advanced agriculture procedures and practices. This course is designed for vocational-technical students who require competency in all phases and types of livestock and agriculture production. Student will be involved in hands on laboratory study and receive an in-depth look at animal science. Hands-on experience is essential for success in

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this class. Student involvement will be necessary and will be incorporated by presenting many challenging practical laboratory activities. AG GOVERNMENT AND ECONOMICS 12 Year Course – Meets Am Govt/Econ Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Electives Requirement) Prerequisite - None America’s agricultural industry is the mainstay of the United States economy. Understanding economics and regulations of the diverse industry is critical to its continued prosperity. Students will learn basic economic principals and the historical development of the government. Topics include: macroeconomics, agriculture business organizations, agriculture credit, record keeping, record analysis, marketing, agriculture law, responsibilities and right of citizenship, voting, political parties, elections, campaigns, the Constitution, the Branches of government, and the Bill of Rights. Students will be expected to participate in work place learning experiences and interpersonal leadership skill development activities. FFA participation is mandatory. AG LEADERSHIP AND COMMUNICATION 10-11-12 Year Course - Elective Prerequisite - Teacher approval This course is designed to develop the leadership and communication skills necessary for success in post secondary education and occupational careers. Students will be required to complete individual and group projects which will enhance their overall ability to communicate both verbally and nonverbally. This course will offer advanced leadership training as well as job training which should result in a more employable student. Students will be involved in the organization of the FFA and implement all activities throughout the year. FFA officers will be required to be in the class. AG MECHANICS 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Elective or Vocational Education Prerequisite - None Introduction to Agriculture Mechanics is beginning course to the Agricultural Mechanics Program. The class covers shop safety, shop procedures, and the proper use of hand and power tools. Students will be introduced to all facets of the areas which make up the field of Agriculture Mechanics. The following areas which are covered in this class are follows: Measuring, tool identification, rope work, woodworking, electrification, cold metal, plumbing, arc welding, oxy-acetylene welding and cutting, concrete, tool sharpening and maintenance, and careers in Ag Mechanics. AG WELDING 10-11-12 Year Course - Elective or Vocational Education Prerequisite - Teacher approval This is a one year course devoted to the development of welding skills and techniques used in industry. Topics for the class activities are: All phases of Oxygen-Acetylene Welding and Cutting, Shielded Metal Arc Welding, and an introduction to MIG (Metal Inert Gas) Welding and TIG (Tungsten Inert Gas) Welding, Carbon arc gouging, and the cutting of mild steel, aluminum, and stainless steel by use of the Plasma Cutter. Construction of metal projects in permissible and encouraged, but only after completion of required assignments. Each Student is required to purchase a pair of coveralls. FLORICULTURE 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Elective or Vocational Education also Meets Fine Art Graduation Requirement Prerequisite - None

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This course gives the student and insight into the floriculture history, and floral industry in California. The major emphasis will be on learning and/or updating skills for cut flowers and potted plant selection and care, floral design principles, corsage construction, shop management, and job seeking procedures. The course in designed to lay the foundation for an entry-level position in the floriculture industry and/or community classroom experience. ADVANCED FLORICULTURE 10-11-12 Year Course - Elective or Vocational Education Prerequisite - Floriculture This course will focus on advanced floral design practices. Students will apply basic skills learned from floriculture to large independent and special projects. Students will gain business and management skills through contracted events/activities within the district. ORNAMENTAL HORTICULTURE/LANDSCAPING ROP 11-12 Year Course - Elective or Vocational Education- ROP 2 period class Prerequisite - Must be 16 years of age or have Junior class standing This course is intended to teach students entry-level skills in the ornamental horticulture field. Students will learn various horticultural topics, and a “hands-on” approach will be applied whenever possible. Plant identification, greenhouse practices, and equipment use will be covered. Also various landscaping projects including school beautification, garden construction, pruning, and landscape maintenance. SMALL ENGINES 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Elective or Vocational Education Prerequisite - None This course is designed to develop basic knowledge and skills associated with small gas engines. Major topics to be covered include safety, principles of operation, troubleshooting, disassembly, overhaul/re-assembly, tune-up, and general maintenance.

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Art (Visual Performing Arts/Fine Arts) ART I 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Elective (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - None This is a basic Art class for those who are interested in Art but may not feel artistic. This class covers the basic Art principles, how Art fits into everyone’s life, some Art history, and multi-cultural Art. Art projects will be created and papers will be written that relate to the concept taught. ART II 10-11-12 Year Course - Elective (Meets UC A-G Requirement) Prerequisite - Art I An overview of advanced Art methods and materials, supplemented with Art slides and prints, with an emphasis in studio work. Students will experience advanced studies of Art techniques and pursue creativity. ADVANCED ART 11-12 Year Course - Elective (May be taken 2 years for credit) Prerequisite - “C” grade or better in Art II or permission from instructor. Designed for students serious in pursuing Art for possible career. Students will experience advanced Art techniques, pursue personal interests in art, work on portfolio for college entrance. GRAPHIC DESIGN/WEB PAGE DESIGN ROP 11 – 12 Year Course - Elective or Vocational Education – ROP 2 period class (Meets UC A-G Requirement) Prerequisite - Must be 16 years of age or a junior Join this fun group of web page designers who will create and update the FHS Webpage/Online Yearbook. Put your photography skills to work by capturing the best events with our digital cameras. Design and produce full-color posters and other art projects. This two-period class includes field trips, leadership skills, guest speakers, and job-readiness skills. CHILD DEVELOPMENT CHILD DEVELOPMENT AND LAB ROP 11-12 Year Course - Elective or Vocational Education - ROP 2 period class Prerequisite - Must be 16 years of age or a junior This course will cover the developmental stages of children before birth to age eight, organization and procedures involved with a preschool or day care center, techniques for instructing, guiding and caring for children in a child care program. Instruction will also include the role of the childhood educator. Work experience will be provided in local child care center or elementary school.

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COMPUTERS COMPUTER LITERATURE & CAREER EXPLORATION 9 Year Course – Required-Meets Computer Graduation Requirement Prerequisite – None Computer Literature & Career Exploration is a required one-year course. Study skills are taught during one semester to help students organize themselves for success in high school and beyond. The other semester is spent on Career Exploration and Driver’s Education. Career Exploration helps the student find areas of strong interest to provide career choices and a pathway to help determine the courses they need to take in high school. Computer Technology is an integral part of the course. The Computer Literature will focus on keyboarding skills; basic editing, publishing technology as well as Excel, Database, and Internet skills that will focus on research skills and career exploration. Please note that FHS’ Driver’s training does not include behind the wheel instruction. MULTI-MEDIA 9-10-11-12 Year Course – Elective Prerequisite – None The basics of video editing, web page design, digital photography, PowerPoint and Photo Shop will be introduced. Edit video clips using Adobe Premiere, design posters and collages using Photoshop, create web pages and develop your art into all aspects of media and art. DIGITAL VIDEO AND FILM PRODUCTION 10-11-12 Year Course – Elective or Vocational Education Prerequisite – Multi-Media or Senior status with a minimum of a 3.0 GPA and permission from instructor This course will emphasize video editing, film production, screen writing and PhotoShop. Edit, capture, and produce short movies, commercials, and music videos. GRAPHIC DESIGN/WEB PAGE DESIGN ROP 11 – 12 Year Course – Elective or Vocational Education– ROP 2 period class (Meets UC A-G Requirement) Prerequisite – Must be 16 years of age or a junior Join this fun group of web page designers who will create and update the FHS Webpage/Online Yearbook. Put your photography skills to work by capturing the best events with our digital cameras. Design and produce full-color posters and other art projects. This two-period class includes field trips, leadership skills, guest speakers, and job-readiness skills.

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ENGLISH ENGLISH 9 9 Year Course - Required (Meets UC A-G Requirement) Prerequisite - None The focus of this course is the development of student abilities in reading comprehension and composition. Domains of study will address the California English Language Art Content Standards in the areas of reading, writing, written and oral English language conventions, and listening and speaking strategies. Literary genres studied include novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. The study of conventions cover such things as the parts of speech, and writing topics will focus on the modes of expository, research, and persuasive essays. ENGLISH 10 10 Year Course - Required (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - English 9 The focus of this course is the development of student abilities in reading comprehension and composition. Domains of study will address the California English Language Art Content Standards in the areas of reading, writing, written and oral English language conventions, and listening and speaking strategies. Literary genres studied include novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. The study of conventions cover such things as the parts of speech, and writing topics will focus on the modes of expository, research, and persuasive essays. HONORS ENGLISH 9/10 9-10 Year Course - Meets English 9/10 Graudation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisites - CST/STAR tests 4 or 5 (proficient or advanced); GATE status (Gifted and Talent Education); B average in previous English classes. The central focus of these two courses is to better prepare students for the rigors of university-level work by teaching critical thinking skills and by requiring of students more in-depth response to and analyses of literature and writing. ENGLISH 11 11 Year Course - Required (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - English 10 The focus of this course is the development of student abilities in reading comprehension and composition. English 11 concentrates on the development of American thought and society through the study of its literature. Domains of study will address the California English Language Art Standards in the areas of reading, writing, written and oral English language conventions, and listening and speaking strategies. Literary genres studied include novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. The study of conventions cover such things as the verb usage, and writing topics will focus on the modes of expository, research, and persuasive essays. ENGLIGH 12 12 Year Course - Required (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - English 11 The focus of this course is the development of student abilities in reading comprehension and composition. English 12 concentrates on the development of European thought and culture through the study of its literature. Domains of study will address the California English Language Art Standards in the areas of reading, writing, written and oral English language conventions, and listening and speaking strategies. Literary genres studied include novels, short stories, poetry, and plays. The study of conventions cover such things as the modifiers and usage, and writing topics will focus on the modes of expository, research, and persuasive essays. There will be emphasis on expository critiques and synthesis to prepare students for the rigor of college placement tests and work.

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AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION 11 Year Course - Meets English 11 Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisites - CST/STAR tests 4 or 5 (proficient or advanced; GATE status (Gifted and Talent Education); B average in previous English classes; Honors English 10 recommended. Advanced Placement English Language and Composition is a class for college-bound juniors. An AP course in English engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Both their writing and their reading should make students aware of the interactions among a writer's purpose, audience expectations, and subject; in addition; students must develop their understanding of standard conventions and the resources of language as tools in writing effectively. Taking the AP test in May is mandatory; passing the AP exam can earn the student semester credit in English. Students in Advanced Placement English may earn up to five grade points at the high school. AP ENGLISH LITERTURE AND COMPOSITION 12 Year Course - Meets English Literature Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisites - CST/STAR tests 4 or 5 (proficient or advanced; GATE status (Gifted and Talent Education); B average in previous English classes; AP English 11 recommended. Advanced Placement English Literature and Composition is a class for college-bound seniors. An AP course in English literature teaches students to become skilled readers of a variety of genres written in different periods in the areas of American, English, and world literature. It is also designed to aid students to hone their critical thinking skills and to help them refine their writing skills. Taking the AP test in May is mandatory; passing the AP exam can earn the student semester credit in English. Students in Advanced Placement English may earn up to five grade points at the high school.

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FOREIGN LANGUAGE

SPANISH I 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Elective (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - None Basic knowledge of Spanish vocabulary and grammar with extensive exercises on present tense and an introduction to the past tense. Emphasis on reading, writing, listening, and speaking skills with an overview of different Hispanic cultures. SPANISH II 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Elective (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - “C” or better in Spanish I or approval of instructor. Review of present tense and extensive coverage of past tenses with emphasis on reading, writing, listening, speaking skills, and continued overview of different Hispanic cultures. SPANISH III –IV 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Elective (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - “C” or better in Spanish II or approval of instructor. Intensive review of all tenses and extensive coverage of past tenses with emphasis on reading, writing skills. An introduction to literature will also be covered. SPANISH AP LITERATURE 10-11-12 Year Course - Elective (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - “C” or better in Spanish III/ IV or approval of instructor Course material will be at an advanced level with emphasis on major literary works, essays, and plays by Hispanic authors. Students may take the Advanced Placement test and receive college credit. SPANISH AP LANGUAGE (Meets UC A-G Requirements) 10-11-12 Year Course - Elective Prerequisite - “C” or better in Spanish III/ IV or approval of instructor Highly challenging course with material at the advanced level with emphasis on all tenses of the subjunctive. Students may take the Advanced Placement test and receive college credit.

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MATHEMATICS

ALGEBRA I 9-10 Year Course - Required (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - Grade level on state assessment. Elementary algebraic concepts that will enable the student to succeed in more advanced mathematics courses. These concepts include problem solving, linear and quadratic equations, polynomials, functions and graphing. GEOMETRY 9-10 Year Course - Required (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - Algebra I Postulates concerning points, lines, planes, geometric definitions, congruence and similarity properties of triangles and polygons, Parallel and perpendicular lines, properties of quadrilaterals, area and volumes of solids , circles, coordinate geometry, basic trigonometry.

ALGEBRA II 10-11-12 Year Course - Required (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - Geometry Operations with basic functions, permutations and combinations, direct and indirect variations, systems of linear equations and inequalities (2 and 3 variables), linear programming, quadratic equations and inequalities, power functions, radical equations, complex numbers, conic functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, probability and statistics, sequences and series. PROBLEM SOLVING STRATEGIES 12 Year Course - Math Prerequisite- Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II -12th grade standing required The Problem Solving Strategies course is intended for the student that has taken Algebra I. This course emphasizes that any problem can be solved in many ways. In this class students will be asked to think about problems, solve them, then write about their solutions. The goal is that when students complete this class, they will be able to understand the mathematics they are doing and explain their reasoning in writing. The Problem Solving Strategies class is based on idea that students will learn strategies people in the real world use to solve problems. Learning problem-solving strategies will help students on the Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT) and other standardized tests. Students will build written portfolios of their work and solutions. PRE-CALCULUS 10-11-12 Year Course - Elective-Recommended for college (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - Algebra II Presents fundamental concepts and skills needed for calculus; fundamental operations of functions , systems of linear equations, linear programming, function graphing, polynomial functions, rational root theorem, trigonometry, radian measure, laws of sines and cosines, inverse trigonometric functions , trigonometric identities, polar coordinates, polar forms of complex numbers, Demoirve’s theorem, sequences and series, derivatives, limits, and integrals.

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AP CALCULUS 11-12 Year Course - Elective (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - Pre-calculus This course is designed to meet the needs of students who want to take the AP calculus exam in the spring. The course starts with a review of Pre-calculus topics, including trigonometric, logarithmic, and exponential functions. Calculus topics include: limits and continuity, differentiation and applications (optimization , related rates, differential equations, increasing and decreasing functions, points of inflection, 1st and 2nd derivative tests), Rolle’s theorem, Mean value theorem, Integration, Reimann sums, the Fundamental Theorem of Calculus, Logarithmic and Exponential functions, trigonometric functions (including inverses), and solids of revolutions.

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MUSIC

PREP BAND (Combination of Beginning & Intermediate Bands) 9-10-11-12 Semester Course - Elective (May be taken two years for credit) Prerequisite - Some previous training and experience playing a brass, woodwind, percussion, or keyboard instrument would be preferred, plus willingness to continue to work at learning to play that instrument. The Prep Band will offer ongoing training in instrumental and musicianship skills with a view toward preparing the student for advancement to either Advanced band or Wind Ensemble. Beginning students with no previous experience will be accepted. ADVANCED BAND 9-10-11-12 (Marching Band in Fall & Concert Band in Spring) Year Course - Elective (Meets UC A-G Requirement) (Meets P.E. Requirement) (May be taken all 4 years for credit) Prerequisite - Audition with and recommendation of band instructor. The Advanced Band will offer advanced training in instrumental and musicianship skills. Students will have opportunities to learn to play from a large repertoire of band music styles. Students are required to participate in occasional Saturday and before/after school rehearsals, as well as a variety of band performances including but not limited to evening and weekend concerts, band festivals, parades, several football games and half-time field shows, homecoming and other school student body festivities and special events. Students are required to participate in Band Booster Fund Raising Activities in order to earn money for the yearly Spring Band Trip. Students are recommended to purchase, rent, or lease their own personal band instrument whenever possible. WIND ENSEMBLE 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Elective (Meets UC A-G Requirement) (Meets P.E. Requirement) (May be taken all 4 years for credit) Prerequisite - Audition with and recommendation of band instructor. The Wind Ensemble will offer advanced training in instrumental and musicianship skills and beginning training in music theory skills. Students will have opportunities to explore a larger repertoire and variety of band styles, including jazz band. Students are required to participate in occasional Saturday and before/after school rehearsals, as well as a variety of band performances including but not limited to evening and weekend concerts, band festivals, parades, field shows and homecoming and other school student festivities and special events. The Wind Ensemble will serve as the primary FHS Sport Pep Band, performing at all home away football game, as well as a number of home and away basketball games. Students are recommended to purchase, rent or lease their own personal band instrument whenever possible.

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OTHER ACADEMIC DECATHLON 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Elective – College Credit Earned Prerequisite - Permission of instructor, submitting application, pass interview, and summer school. See instructor for more information. Academic Decathlon is a class that studies ten interrelated subjects based on a curriculum theme (social science, music, English, math, art, economics, speech, essay, interview, and a “Super Quiz” category. We will study these areas, go on several field trips and/or attend outside lectures to enhance our understanding of these, and attend the competition in February at Fresno State. By joining the decathlon team, you can earn up to four credits of college credit given by Fresno State. There are three competition categories depending upon your GPA: Honors: 3.75 and up; Scholastic: 3.00-3.75; and Varsity: up to 2.99. You study and compete against only those who are in your GPA category. This year’s theme is the Latin America and Evolutionary Biology. AVID 9-10-11-12 Year Course- Elective Prerequisite – Application required/Interview process Advancement Via Individual Determination (AVID) is a college preparatory program for students in the middle who are often economically disadvantaged and underachieving. It enables disadvantaged secondary students to succeed in rigorous curricula, enter mainstream activities in school, and increase their opportunities to enroll in four-year colleges. FAST FORWARD 12 Year Course – Elective Prerequisite – Seniors only with a minimum 2.7 academic GPA. Must be a 4yr. college track Senior. Application required Fast Forward is a year-long course that will prepare eligible students for college by offering one-on-one academic preparation for the California State University Math and English placement tests during your child’s senior year in high school. Fast Forward also provides personal academic counseling and assistance during your child’s freshmen year at the university. Fast Forward utilizes computer-based learning, provides students with additional skills to help them become successful university students and more technology savvy. LIBRARY MEDIA AIDE 11-12 Year Course - Elective - Maximum credit allowed is 20 Prerequisite - Must have earned a 2.5 Overall GPA, without any failing marks in the previous semester. Under the supervision and direction of the Library Media teacher and Library Media Clerk, the student will learn the Dewey Decimal System, shelf books, process new books, work with the computerized card catalog, make copies for teachers and students, use computer to check books out and in, and help other students locate and access materials in the library media center. TEACHER ASSISTANT/OFFICE ASSISTANT 11-12 Semester Course - Elective - Maximum credit allowed is 20 May earn a maximum of 5 units a semester and May not be taking Office Assistant concurrently. Prerequisite - Must have earned a 2.5 Overall GPA, without any failing marks in the previous semester. Under teacher supervision, the student will aide in the objective grading of assignments and test, filing, typing, running copy machine, running errands, and other items to assist teachers. Under office staff supervision the student will do jobs assigned by the office personnel.

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YEARBOOK 10-11-12 Year Course - Elective (May be taken 3 times for credit) Prerequisite - Permission of instructor, submitting application, and pass interview. 9th grade with teacher approval A practical course is applied journalism, in which a selected student staff plans, designs, writes, photographs, and edits the school annual. The staff also handles advertising sales, marketing, and distribution of the books. Students should be prepared to attend athletic and other events to take pictures for the yearbook, and spend time after school and on some weekends to help reach deadlines.

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PHYSICAL EDUCATION

COED PHYSICAL EDUCATION 9-10-11-12 Year Course - Required of all students in grades 9 and 10 Prerequisite - None The secondary school curriculum provides for each student the opportunities needed for growth and development—physical, intellectual, emotional, and social—to the full extent of the individual’s potential abilities. In the physical education program opportunities for physical growth and development are emphasized and contributions are made to the individual’s emotional stability, intellectual development, and social proficiency. Learning will be measured by skills tests, written exams, and participation. COED BODY CONDITIONING 9-10-11-12 Semester - Elective Prerequisite - None This will be a coed class for those truly interested in the basic concepts and practices of power and body building development. The class will be open to all grade levels. SPORTS CONDITIONING 9-10-11-12 Semester - Elective Prerequisite - Must be enrolled in more than one sport and by instructor approval P.E. for athletes who are in more than one sport. There will be alternate study hall days along with strength conditioning days. *Physical Education classes maybe taken all 4 years, but limited to 40 credits. *Any of the above classes meets the physical education graduation requirement. *Students may not be enrolled in two P.E. classes during the same semester.

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SCIENCE

AG BIOLOGY 10 Year Course - Meets Life Science Graduation Requirement) (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - AG Earth Science is recommended Agriculture Biology is a one-year, laboratory science course, designed for the college bound student with career interests in agriculture. Using agriculture as a learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles, central concepts and inter-relationships among the following topics: the molecular and cellular aspects of life, the chemical and structural basis of life, energy of life, growth and reproduction in plant and animal genetics ecological relationships among plants, animals, humans and the environment, nutrition in animals, health and diseases in animals and the similarities between animals and humans. The course is centered on an extensive laboratory component in order to connect the big ideas of all life science with agricultural applications, earth and physical science principles and other curricular areas, including written and oral reporting skills. BIOLOGY I 10 Year Course - Required - Meets Biology Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - None Biology I is a laboratory oriented class in life science. Two or three days a week are in the laboratory. Beginning with what constitutes living organisms through principles of hereditary change, this class surveys the processes of cells. The first semester includes science fair project and research experiment. Diversity of life is also presented in a survey of plants, animals, and family life sex education. The third quarter is spent on plants. The fourth quarter is spent studying animals. AG CHEMISTRY 11 Year Course – Meets Physical Science Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirement) Prerequisite - AG Earth Science and AG Biology is recommended Agriculture Chemistry is a one-year laboratory science course, designed for the college bound student with career interest in agriculture, science, and technology. Using agriculture as a learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles, central concepts and inter-relationships among the following topics: periodic law and trends, atomic and molecular structures, state of matter, chemical bonding, conservation of matter and stoichiometry, gases and their properties, properties of acids and an introduction to organic and biochemistry. The course is centered on an extensive laboratory component in order to connect the big ideas of chemistry with agricultural applications, earth and life science principles and other curricular areas, including written, mathematical and oral reporting skills CHEMISTRY 11 Year Course - Required (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - None A basic course presented as chemistry is today. Emphasis is on the most enjoyable part of chemistry—experimentation. Unifying principles are developed with the laboratory work providing the basis for the development. Concepts and application of math problem solving skills will be emphasized.

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AG EARTH SCIENCE 9 Year Course – Meets Earth Science Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Electives Requirement) Prerequisite - None Agriculture Earth Science is a one-year, laboratory science course, designed for the college bound student with career interests in Agriculture. Using agriculture as a learning vehicle, the course emphasizes the principles and practices of Earth Science as a way to demonstrate the relevance of Earth Science in agriculture to each student’s life and environment. The class is designed to teach Earth Science through a problem solving, community based model, where the teacher is the facilitator. This class will utilize local and regional issues and concerns to stimulate problem-solving activities and to foster a sense of Earth stewardship by students in their communities. The class will establish and expanded learning environment, which incorporates fieldwork, technological access to data, and traditional classroom and laboratory activities. The course is centered around an extensive laboratory component in order to connect the big ideas of all earth science with agricultural applications, physical science principles, and other curricular areas, including written and oral reporting skills. EARTH SCIENCE 9 Year Course - Required - Meets Earth Science graduation requirements (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - None Why are there seasons on Earth? Why does the wind blow? Why do columns form and grow? All of these questions and more will be explored in this required freshman class. By doing labs and exploring concepts, the topics of atmosphere, rock and minerals, weather, oceans, internal processes, geological time and astronomy will be covered. Special attention will be given to the geology of California. PHYSICS 11-12 Year Course - Elective (recommended for college prep) (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - “B” grade or better in Chemistry and current enrollment in Pre-calculus recommended The basic Physics class will study matter and energy and their interaction in the fields of optics, mechanics, acoustics, heat, electricity, magnetism, radiation, and nuclear phenomena. Experiments will be emphasized.

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SOCIAL STUDIES

WORLD HISTORY 10 Year Course - Required – Meets World History Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - None In this course students examine major turning points in the shaping of the modern world, focusing on the late eighteenth century to the present. The class will begin with a review of Ancient and Medieval History and then continues with a focus on the expansion of the West and the growing interdependence of peoples and cultures throughout the world. UNITED STATES HISTORY 11 Year Course - Required - Meets U.S. History Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - World History A survey of United States History for the general purpose of increasing knowledge and skills necessary for basic citizenship. American democracy, understanding of social, economic, and political forces; patriotism, and worldwide role are a part of the course. First quarter—exploration through reconstruction (1876); remaining three quarters—urbanization and industrialization to the present with emphasis on the Twentieth Century. AP UNITED STATES HISTORY 11 Year Course - Elective - Meets U.S. History Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - “B” grade or better in World History, a 3.0 GPA in core classes and a score of 4 or better in the CST/STAR Test This course covers American History from the Colonial era (1600) to the present. The course covers political institutions and behavior, public policy, social and economic change, diplomacy and international relations and cultural and intellectual development. The three hour AP Exam on United States History includes 60 minutes of multiple choice questions, a 15 minute reading period, a 45 minute exercise on the use of historical evidence (DBQ), and two 30 minute selected essays. The AP Exam is given in early May. The exam grading takes place in June scores are reported in July. Preparation for the AP Exam begins the first week of May and continues for over a week. As part of the preparation process you will take practice exams during at the year. Your preparation depends on YOU. AMERICAN GOVERNMENT 12 Semester Course - Required – Meets American Government Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - U.S. History A study of the fundamental principles of American Government and a better understanding of national, state, and local government. A State of California requirement for graduation. ECONOMICS 12 Semester Course - Required- Meets the American Government Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Requirements) Prerequisite - U.S. History An introductory course in economics designed to enable students to achieve basic understanding of fundamental economic concepts and how these concepts relate to their personal goal and to the world in which they live. The course is a basic macro-economic study of our economic system and its role in the world economic system. A State of California requirement for graduation.

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AG GOVERNMENT AND ECONOMICS 12 Year Course – Meets Am Govt/Econ Graduation Requirement (Meets UC A-G Electives Requirement) Prerequisite - None America’s agricultural industry is the mainstay of the United States economy. Understanding economics and regulations of the diverse industry is critical to its continued prosperity. Students will learn basic economic principals and the historical development of the government. Topics include: macroeconomics, agriculture business organizations, agriculture credit, record keeping, record analysis, marketing, agriculture law, responsibilities and right of citizenship, voting, political parties, elections, campaigns, the Constitution, the Branches of government, and the Bill of Rights. Students will be expected to participate in work place learning experiences and interpersonal leadership skill development activities. FFA participation is mandatory.

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TRADE & INDUSTRIAL ARTS AUTOMOTIVES I 9-10-11-12 Year Course – Elective or Vocational Education Prerequisite – None This course will prepare individuals to be better automobile owners, and users. The program can also serve as the first phase of programs that ultimately prepare individuals for employment in automotive/truck/air-cooled gasoline engine, power equipment servicing, management and maintenance. Instruction includes, but is not limited to: The role of the automobile in the nation’s/world economy, employment opportunities, working conditions and training requirements in occupations related to the automobile; the principles of operation of the basic automotive systems, service and maintenance. AUTOMOTIVES II ROP 11-12 Year Course – Elective or Vocational Education - ROP 2 period Class Prerequisite – Auto I and Must be 16 years of age or a junior An auto system course is intended to give student practical hands-on experience in diagnosing, trouble shooting, and service procedures in the automotive field. The course also covers shop practice and maintenance and repair in automotive specialty areas. INTRO WOOD CONSTRUCTION 9-10-11-12 Year Course – Elective or Vocational Education Prerequisite – None This course will cover woodworking hand tools and basic machine tools, their use and care; basic woodworking techniques; and an introduction to sandpaper and finishing materials. Hardware and other materials related to woodworking will be used by the students. CARPENTRY 10-11-12 Year Course – Elective or Vocational Education Prerequisite – Intro Wood This 40 week course will cover the exterior construction systems used in residential construction, with special skill emphasis on residential rough carpentry. CABINET MAKING 10-11-12 Year Course – Elective or Vocational Education Prerequisite – Intro Wood This course will continue instruction in woodworking machine operation, safety and maintenance in more complicated and technical situations. The course will cover cabinet and case design and construction from rough wood to the finished product. CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGY INTERIORS/EXTERIORS ROP 11-12 Year Course – Elective or Vocational Education– ROP 2 period class Meets 10 credits in Math for Seniors only. You must be enrolled in the class year long. Prerequisite – Cabinet Making and/or Carpentry and Must be 16 years of age or a junior Emphasis is on skills development and learning through independently and cooperatively designing, planning, research, and construction of beginning carpentry, building trade projects, as well as community service projects.