Staying on course Upperclassmen recommend classes from different departments Lily Thomas
Introduction
W Scan the QR code to view the FHS course guide, which shows avaible course options and diploma pathways.
ith over 200 course offerings, underclassmen have an array of classes to choose from when they meet with their counselors to schedule their next academic year. According to counselor Matt Swaim, counselors consider several factors, such as the student’s grade, career interests, diploma type and academic abilities, when advising students on course requests. Swaim suggests that, to prepare for scheduling, students should take time to think about what interests and goals they have in mind and consider how they can challenge themselves next year. “FHS is a large high school that offers so many choices to students,” Swaim said. “Students should take advantage of these opportunities and select classes that fit their unique journey towards finding a career.” To learn about the courses available, Swaim encourages students to read through the course guide found on the school website. Teachers and fellow students can also be helpful sources.
Math For those pursuing the Core 40 diploma, the highest math class required is Algebra II. However, there are other math classes that upperclassmen can take such as AP Calculus, Precalculus/Trigonometry, AP Statistics and College Algebra. Junior Kennedy Terhune is currently taking Precalculus/Trigonometry. “I would suggest taking it if you’re pretty comfortable with Algebra and Algebra II because it’s very similar to those skills and adds a new element of skill sets to the foundation you set in those classes,” Terhune said.
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Science In addition to the required biology, chemistry or physics credits, students must also choose an additional science class to take. Science courses range from Zoology to AP Environmental Science, with options for all types of interests. Senior Peyton Rodgers has taken Horticulture, AP Environmental Science and Honors Geology. “All of those classes are really fun if you’re interested in those subjects,” Rodgers said. “Horticulture is one of my favorites because you deal with a lot of plants and I like plants. If anyone is wanting that, I highly recommend them.”
Business All diplomas require a business credit, which can be fulfilled by classes like Accounting I, Introduction to Computer Science, Introduction to Business or Digital Applications and Responsibility. During her freshman year, Rodgers took an Introduction to Computer Science class. “It was really easy to understand,” Rodgers said. “They break it down and give you actual building blocks in the coding simulator, and for the final project, you get to make a computer game.”
Social Studies Though there are required classes, there are still some other options to take in addition to the requirements. Social studies course options include Psychology, Ethnic Studies, AP Human Geography, Sociology and more. “My favorite class that I’ve had in my four years is Current Issues,” Rodgers said. “The reason why I loved it so much is because it gave me a lot of freedom with all the assignments and projects.”
December 2021
