2016-2017
HIGH SCHOOL
CURRICULUM GUIDE
Equipping students for a life of faith and learning
WESTERN MENNONITE SCHOOL 9045 Wallace Road NW Salem, Oregon 97304 Phone: 503-363-2000 FAX: 503-370-9455 www.westernmennoniteschool.org
ů ^ƚĞĨĂŶ, Principal Dave Chambers, Registrar Judy Hull, College & Career Advisor
TABLE OF CONTENTS INTRODUCTION GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS SUBJECT COMMENTS AND DESCRIPTIONS MINI-TERM APPLIED ARTS/FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT BIBLE DEPARTMENT BUSINESS/CAREER EDUCATION DEPARTMENT COMPUTER DEPARTMENT ENGLISH DEPARTMENT MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH DEPARTMENT SCIENCE DEPARTMENT SOCIAL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT WORLD LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT
INTRODUCTION The purpose of this guide is to provide the student and his/her parents with a brief description of all required, recommended, and elective high school course offerings at Western Mennonite School. Please study this guide carefully and make choices that reflect your future goals and ambitions. Descriptions are written so that you know what will be expected of you in each class. It is our hope that you will choose courses that will best prepare you for your future goals and that will help you to live a life of faithful discipleship as reflected in the life of Jesus Christ. Contact the Academic and College Advisors office for assistance with your selections for the next year 2
and for planning your total high school program. Parents are urged to call for answers to any questions they may have regarding their student's program.
GUIDELINES AND PROCEDURES 1.
Be aware of the school's graduation requirements. (See the following two pages.)
2.
Students must select classes/courses to fill seven periods per day. Only one of these periods may be a study hall, tutoring, or other non-credit class.
3.
Incoming freshmen will meet with the Academic Advisor and create a four-year plan; this plan will be reviewed and updated yearly.
4.
Read the course descriptions carefully before selecting a class. Check the prerequisites. If you are uncertain about what will be expected of you in a specific course, contact the Academic Advisor, teacher, or a member of the department that is offering the course.
5.
If there is insufficient demand for a certain course, it may not be offered. In such cases, students will be asked to choose another course.
6.
In classes where enrollment must be limited, preference will be given to upperclassmen.
7.
Certain courses involve additional costs.
8.
Lost books will be charged to the student's account.
9.
Students desiring to take any course through other institutions or programs must apply through the Academic Advisor.
10. Any deviations from the standard required coursework for graduation must be approved by the Principal; curriculum deviations are only made in rare circumstances.
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GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS To receive a standard diploma from Western Mennonite School, the following criteria must be met: 1. Attendance in high school for eight, full semesters including mini-term participation each year and Bible each semester.1 2. Enrollment in school throughout the regular school day. The regular school day is from the beginning of first period to the end of last period in the day. 2 3. Completion of all teacher and administrator requirements relating to school policy. 4. Satisfactory completion of 25 credits (each semester is .5 credit) including all of the courses on the Standard High School Plan. Satisfactory completion means to have received a grade of A, B, C, or D. A grade of C- or better in 16 core classes is required to meet OUS and many other university entrance requirements. 5. Students may select the Standard, Honors, or High Honors Plan. The Standard Plan meets requirements for entry into a community college, trade school, and a small number of open admissions colleges and universities. The Honors Plan meets the requirements for entrance into moderately selective universities and colleges, and NCAA system. It includes two years of global language, Honors Algebra II, and a minimum of 16 core class credits. All core classes must be completed with a grade of C- or better, and students must maintain a 3.0 cumulative GPA. The High Honors Plan meets the requirements for entrance into more highly selective universities and gives students better academic scholarship opportunities. In addition to the Honors Plan requirements, students must maintain a 3.5 cumulative GPA and complete an additional 2 core classes. The core classes completed must include 3 AP courses, Pre-Calculus, and 1 additional Advanced Core Class. 6. Valedictorian and Salutatorian must be in the High Honors Plan. 7. Specific course requirements for each class’s Graduation Plan can be downloaded from the school website (www.westernmennoniteschool.org) --------------------------1
Bible and Mini-Term requirements may be modified for transfer students. Transfer students may need additional elective credits to meet graduation requirements. 2
Exceptions to this requirement must be worked out between the Principal and the parents.
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Subject Comments and Descriptions Advanced Placement: A variety of AP courses are offered each year. Students on the High Honor Graduation Plan will be required to take 3 AP courses during their high school years. Those students who score well (a 3 or higher) may receive credit and/or advanced placement at the college they attend. Applied Arts/Fine Arts: Students meet this requirement by taking two semesters of applied arts or fine arts during their freshman year. One year of fine/applied arts is required to graduate. Students who do not take two years of world language will need four additional semesters of fine/applied arts. Bible: Freshmen and sophomores take full-year courses offered on alternate years in combined 9th and 10th grade classes in Old Testament and New Testament Survey. Juniors and seniors select from semester-long Bible courses; two out of the four courses will be Church History and a Bible Book studies. Bible is required each semester of enrollment at WMS. Business/Career Education: Students take a one semester course in Career Education their senior year. In addition, students participate in a variety of career related learning experiences and have regular contact with the College and Career Advisor for assistance with career, college, and service exploration and planning. One semester of career education is required to graduate. Computer: One semester of computer technology is required to graduate. English: English courses combine writing, literature, and higher-level analysis. Juniors and seniors take full-year courses offered on alternate years in combined 11th and 12th grade classes in British Literature & Composition and American Literature & Composition. Four years of English are required to graduate. Math: Students should take the most challenging courses that they are able to complete successfully. Specific math courses will vary depending upon student ability. Algebra I is the minimum level of math that counts towards high school graduation requirements. Three years of math beyond PreAlgebra are required to graduate. Mini-Term: All students participate in a five day mini-term at the end of second semester. These courses provide opportunities for service learning, cultural awareness, and/or intensive study of a focused vocational area. Mini-term is required each year of enrollment at WMS. PE/Health: Students take one semester of PE in their freshman year. Sophomores, juniors, and seniors who are on the High Honors Graduation Plan may substitute participation in a sport season for their additional PE credit - .25 credit for each sport season completed successfully with a maximum of .5 credit. One year of PE is required to graduate. Students take one semester of health in their freshman year and one additional semester during the remainder of their high school years. One year of health is required to graduate.
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Science: Freshmen and sophomores take full-year courses offered on alternate years in combined 9th and 10th grade classes in Biology and semester courses in Earth Science and Environmental Science. Students are encouraged to continue on to advanced science courses in 11th and 12th grade. Three years of science are required to graduate. Social Science: Sophomores and juniors take full-year courses offered on alternate years in combined 10th and 11th grade in US History and World History. Students take a semester each of US Government and Economics during their senior year. Three years of social science are required to graduate. World Language: Most colleges prefer or require two years of the same world language. Students are encouraged to learn Spanish to equip them for future service, ministry, and educational opportunities. Two years of world language are required to graduate with Honors or High Honors.
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APPLIED ARTS/FINE ARTS DEPARTMENT 111620 BASIC ART: Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 Students are introduced to Art through Design Principles and Design Elements. Assignments include simple exercises/projects utilizing those elements and principles. Students are graded on participation and improvement over the semester. Prerequisite: none 111622 INTERMEDIATE ART: Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 This course is designed to stretch students’ artistic abilities through projects that challenge skills and imagination. Students will continue to implement the elements of art into their work, and will also learn the principles of art. Student artists will be given studio experience and work time, as well as be expected to complete projects on their own. Exploration of different pieces of art and a small research paper will be undertaken in order to further understand the foundations of art by studying an artist or artistic movement. Student artists will participate in a critique of each of their projects . Prerequisite: none 111621 ART EXPLORATION: Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 Art Exploration is designed as an introduction to fine art. The material offered in this course covers a broad area, with its focus on two dimensional art. There is an emphasis on exploring and using a variety of media. Daily demonstrations will enrich and broaden the students’ previous exposure to art materials. Additionally, students will be expected to participate in group critiques, as well as orally present and defend of their work. Prerequisite: none 104171 WOODWORKING: Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 This is an introductory course to provide knowledge for entry level woodworking. Instruction includes safety on all equipment, machine operations, and maintenance of equipment. Proper use of hand & power tools. By creating various projects students will experience all aspects of the woodshop. They will be given instruction in the safe operation of woodworking machines & tools, such as the table saw, surface planer, jointer, scroll saw, band saw, power sander, lathe and drill press. Students will learn about basic craft construction, available woods, fasteners and finishes. Prerequisite: mainstream English language proficiency 111710 DIGITAL PHOTOGRAPHY Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 This class is an introduction to working digitally with photographic images in the context of an art class. In it, students will learn to use their digital cameras to produce images which show technical and also conceptual skill. Course content will include projects, presentations, critiques and lectures. Technical lectures and demonstrations will include: basic camera functions, photographic skills, color management, image improvement and manipulation using photo editing software (such as Picasa, PicMonkey, and Photoshop), and preparing final images for email, web, print and/or presentation. Prerequisite: none
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119311 YEARBOOK: Elective: 11, 12 Credit: 1 Yearbook students have the responsibility for capturing attitudes, feelings, and events of WMS High School by writing about and photographing campus life for the current year and producing the yearbook, the Pioneer. The course develops students’ communication, photography, and design skills through instruction in the principles of yearbook production. Students will design layouts for assigned yearbook pages, using computer software and employing elements of quality photojournalism. Emphasis will be placed on skill development, organizational skills and working together as a team. Prerequisite: (Grade 10 enrolled with permission) 111301 CONCERT CHOIR: Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: 1 This is a non-auditioned choral ensemble for students in grades 9-12 requiring no prior choral experience. Students will develop solid vocal habits, group singing skills, and music reading abilities. Choir members will gain experience performing as a group in various live settings. Music is selected from a range of styles and periods and can be sacred or secular. Participation in concerts is required. Prerequisite: none 111305 A CAPPELLA CHOIR: Elective: 11, 12 Credit: 1 This is a non-auditioned choral ensemble for students in grades 10-12 with adequate prior choral experience. Adequate prior experience means participation for at least one year in the WMS Concert Choir. If a student has transferred to WMS during high school, the director will determine eligibility based on his or her choral history. Students will continue developing solid vocal habits, group singing skills, and music reading abilities. Choir members will gain experience performing as a group in various live settings, both on and off campus. This choir is the public face of the WMS Music Department and will represent the school in OSAA/OMEA district and state competitions. Music is selected from a range of styles and periods and can be sacred or secular. Participation in all concerts is required. Prerequisite: WMS Concert Choir or other sufficient prior experience 111307 WESTERN SINGERS: Elective: 11, 12 Credit: .5 This is an auditioned choral ensemble for students in grades 10-12 with adequate prior choral experience. Adequate prior experience means students are eligible for and enrolled in A cappella Choir. Students will learn and perform a wide variety of literature and become skilled at singing without direction in a small group. Interdependency, vulnerability, and trust are key components of a successful small group such as Western Singers. Choir members will gain experience performing as a group in various live settings, both on and off campus. This choir also functions as a marketing tool for WMS and will travel off campus multiple times to various venues. Music is selected from a range of styles and periods and can be sacred or secular. Prerequisite: Solo audition; must be currently enrolled in A Cappella 111201 BAND: Elective: 9-12 Credit: 1 This is a non-auditioned instrumental ensemble for students in grades 9-12. No prior experience is required. Students will be assigned an instrument by the director, unless they bring prior experience on an instrument. Students will develop solid individual playing and practice habits, group playing skills, and music reading abilities. Music is selected from a range of styles and periods and can be sacred or secular. Prerequisite: none 8
BIBLE DEPARTMENT Bible is required for each semester of enrollment at WMS. Students are presumed to have basic Bible knowledge. Juniors and seniors are required to take at least one semester of Church History. Memorization is required in all Bible courses. 126011 INTRODUCTION TO CHRISTIANITY
Core Alternative: 9, 10, 11, 12
Credit: 1
This course is designed to introduce you to the concepts of Christian faith and to create a foundation to take future Bible classes at Western Mennonite School. An overview covering Old Testament and New Testament stories will be used. Prerequisite: New International student
126113 NEW TESTAMENT:
Required: 9, 10
Credit: 1
This course is an overview of the New Testament, its historical context, and the theological issues with which the early Christian community struggled. The class will study key blocks of the New Testament canon through reading, worksheets, class discussions and questions, journaling, Bible memory, and projects. Throughout the study students will discover the way the New Testament presents the Gospel of Jesus Christ; the Good News of the Kingdom. Students will also be challenged to embrace the Christian faith and deepen their understanding of what it means to follow Jesus.
Prerequisite: none 126111 OLD TESTAMENT:
Required: 9, 10
Credit: 1
This is a full year course covering the entire Old Testament. We will study the stories in the Law the Prophets of the people of Israel as they seek to live in covenant relationship with God. We will also explore the historical and cultural context of these Old Testament stories. Through this study we will encounter some of the life and faith issues presented in these stories and how they touch our own Christian story.
Prerequisite: none 126010 CHURCH HISTORY:
Elective: 11, 12
Credit: .5
In this class we will discover the important men and women, events, and moments in the story of the church from its beginnings in Acts until the present. We will also explore the influence of the Radical Reformation and the 16th century Anabaptists within the context and history of the Church at that time. We will use the stories and examples of Christians in the past as sources for considering what it means to be disciples of Jesus; seeing Jesus as the leader and model for our lives today.
Prerequisite: none 126352 CHRISTIAN LIFE AND STEWARDSHIP: Elective: 11, 12 Credit: .5 The course leads the student to look at how personality, temperament, family background, life experiences, and social development shape and guide one's lifestyle choices. Issues of identity, friendship, singleness, sexuality, marriage, family, and money and natural resource stewardship will be explored through speakers, videos, reading, journaling, class discussions, projects, and lectures. The context for all aspects of course study will be exploring the biblical values of being good stewards of all we are given to be faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. Prerequisite: none
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126360 FAITH JOURNEY: Elective: 11, 12 Credit: .5 In this course, students will explore the faith journey of those that have come before us, and their own personal faith journey. A theme of the class will be studying and experiencing the spiritual disciplines. Students will be challenged to know what their beliefs are, how they have been shaped by their beliefs, and to begin to see the vision God has for their future. Learning activities will include scripture memory, journaling, writing spiritual autobiography, and practicing the presence of God through exercises in the spiritual disciplines. Prerequisite: none 126116 GOSPEL OF LUKE: Elective: 11, 12 Credit: .5 In the Gospel of Luke we will encounter Luke’s version of the “good news” of Jesus Christ and the Kingdom of God. We will explore and learn inductive Bible study method. We will read and discuss scholarly reflections on Luke’s text. We will wrestle with the implication of this gospel for the life of the disciples of Jesus Christ.
Prerequisite: Introduction to the New Testament 126120 ACTS OF APOSTLES: Elective: 11, 12 Credit: .5 This course is a study of the Acts of the Apostles; the continuing story of Jesus after his resurrection and ascension. Acts is also the stories of the Holy Spirit, Jesus’ apostles, and the first church they created. We will carefully study these stories, the preaching of Peter and Paul, Peter and Paul’s mission to the Gentile world, and Paul’s church planting journeys. Our work will include reading, hearing, and seeing The Acts of the Apostles. We will consider commentary on Acts. We will tackle Bible study worksheets, class discussions and questions, and Bible memory. Hopefully each student will experience, discover, and be inspired by both the word and life witness of the apostles and first Christians and how their lives were changed and the church was shaped by the Good News of the Kingdom. And each student will be challenged to embrace the Christian faith and deepen their understanding of what it means to follow Jesus. Prerequisite: Introduction to the New Testament 126401 REVELATIONS & ETHICS Elective: 11, 12 Credit: .5 The Book of Revelation is about ethics and allegiance. Who do I worship? Who do I obey? Who do I follow? These ethical questions define allegiance depending on how the questions are answered. John’s Revelation will compel us to explore both his vision and some of the ethical questions which confront and confound Christians in this world; in the past and in the present and in the future. Prerequisite: Introduction to the New Testament
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BUSINESS/CAREER EDUCATION DEPARTMENT
102071 ACCOUNTING I: Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 This course is designed for students who desire entry-level employment in a small business and for students who may wish to pursue a college business major. The course includes the full cycle of double-entry accounting, journalizing in the general and special journals, posting to general and subsidiary ledgers, preparing schedules and financial reports. Prerequisite: none 102072 ACCOUNTING II: Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 This course is designed for students who desire entry-level employment in a small business and for students who may wish to pursue a college business major. The course includes the full cycle of double-entry accounting, journaling in the general and special journals, posting to general and subsidiary ledgers, preparing schedules and financial reports. It also introduces sales tax, payroll and merchandise costs in the context of a partnership. Prerequisite: Accounting I; C average 102073 ACCOUNTING III: Elective: 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 Students will review the basic accounting cycle before getting involved in advanced accounting methods used by corporations including: use of specialized journals, accounting for uncollectible accounts, depreciation, inventory, dividend distribution, cost analysis, and management accounting. Prerequisite: Accounting II; C average 108220 (office), 108230 (teacher), 108250 (library), 116062 (maintenance) AIDE: Elective: 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 This course allows students to gain valuable work-based learning experience on the WMS campus. Attendance, punctuality, work habits, and a positive attitude are emphasized. Specific job duties may include teacher's aide, office aide, tutoring, computer/office work, counselor assistant, food service, maintenance, custodial, grounds keeping, and other projects as assigned by their supervisor. Prerequisite: none 116030 CAREER EDUCATION: Required: 12 Credit: .5 This one-half credit course will equip students for life beyond high school in college, the workplace, family and community. Discussions of personal and financial management, problem solving, communication, teamwork, employment foundations and career development will be presented in a Christian perspective. A job shadow and a service experience will also be completed. Prerequisite: none 108531 SUMMER INTERNSHIP: Elective: 11, 12 Credit: .5 This course is a work-based learning opportunity for students to get real-life experience in a career area that they are considering pursuing after high school. Students will learn positive work habits and attitudes as well as job-specific skills based upon their assignment and ability. Students will complete a minimum of 120 clock hours. Prerequisite: consent of Academic Advisor
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COMPUTER DEPARTMENT
103021 MICROSOFT OFFICE APPL: Elective: 9,10, 11,12 Credit: .5 This course is practical study of the uses of computers in society by learning with hands on applications. Microsoft Office includes: word processing, spreadsheets, databases, PowerPoint, information technology and Internet usage. Prerequisite: Algebra I 103241 COMPUTER PROGRAMMING: Elective: 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 This course is a study of the use of computers and how they work. This course teaches students how to program a computer in Visual Basic. Improving logical thinking and problem solving is emphasized. Prerequisite: Algebra I 107070 AUTO CAD: Elective: 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 This is an introductory course in Auto Computer Aided Design (CAD) or drafting on a computer. Students will learn the basics of three dimensional drawing on a computer by using the program called Rhinoceros. This class will include the use of 3D printing Prerequisite: none 103234 INDEP. COMPUTER PROJECTS: Elective: 11, 12 Credit: .5 This is an opportunity for students that want to continue computer studies beyond the Introductory Computer classes offered to study more advanced topics. The topic of study will be mutually agreed upon by the student and the teacher. Prerequisite: Previous Computer class 103023 GOOGLE SUITES Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 Google Suites will help students learn the many tools and programs that Google has to offer. Students will learn the ins and outs of Google Drive programs and the add-ons they contain. Students will learn how to share these programs and work collaboratively on projects throughout the course. Using Google Docs students will create word Documents, posters and learn other templates. Students will use Google Slides to create presentations. Using Google Forms students will create surveys and break down the data with Google Sheets. Prerequisite: none 107021 DESIGN IN 3D Fine Arts/Elective: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 This course will help students understand and appreciate the growing use of three dimensional designs in our world. A team approach to the course will be emphasized, allowing all students a chance to develop particular skills needed to create specific creative projects. Developing self confidence in exploring new skills needed for a project will be encouraged. Most projects will include using a 3D printer. Prerequisite: none
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ENGLISH DEPARTMENT 110611 ESL ENGLISH: Core (English Language Learners) Credit: 1 The ESL English program is designed to equip students to communicate effectively and comfortably in the English language. The program also aims to foster a love for language and cultural exchange in each student, recognizing that our ability to communicate our thoughts and feelings through language is a gift from God to be used for His glory. ESL English students focus on measurably increasing academic skills: listening, reading, and writing with an emphasis on speaking. Students will produce a short research paper using MLA standards and formatting. Literature selections will include both short stories and novels. Students will be prepared to enter the regular English classroom within 1-2 years of this program. Prerequisite: New international student or a SLEP score of 50 and below 110011 ENGLISH I: Core Required: 9 Credit: 1 This two semester course integrates the study of literature including short story, novel, poetry, drama, and nonfiction; writing, vocabulary, and language usage. Students will practice strategies for reading critically and for meaning. Major readings include By Darkness Hid, The Odyssey, Romeo and Juliet, and Hotel on the Corner of Bitter and Sweet. Students will learn how to use the six traits of writing effectively in narrative and informative essays; how to write about literature including a character analysis; research writing; and MLA formatting. Frequent paragraph writing will include reflective, narrative, and persuasive writing. Emphasis will be on organization, paragraph development, word choice, sentence fluency, and conventions. Prerequisite: none 110021 ENGLISH II: Core Required: 10 Credit: 1 This two semester course integrates the study of literature including short story, novel, poetry, drama, and nonfiction; writing, vocabulary, Greek and Latin roots study, and language usage. Students will practice strategies for reading critically and for meaning. Major readings may include Night, By Darkness Hid, Antigone, and Of Mice and Men. Students will learn how to use the six traits of writing effectively in narrative and opinion essays; how to write about literature including a character analysis; research writing; and MLA formatting. Frequent paragraph writing will include reflective, narrative, and critical writing. Emphasis will be on organization, paragraph development, word choice, sentence fluency, and conventions. Prerequisite: English I 110031 AMERICAN LITERATURE & COMPOSITION Core Required: 11, 12 Credit: 1 This is an upper-level English course which examines literature and composition, with units built around a study of American Literature. Themes and trends in the literature of the United States’ different time periods and people groups will be examined, and a variety of genres will be explored. Systematic vocabulary study, continued review, and exercise of English writing conventions will be incorporated throughout the year. Prerequisite: English II
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110040 BRITISH LITERATURE & COMPOSITION Core Required: 11, 12 Credit: 1 This is an upper-level English course which examines literature and composition, with units built around a study of American Literature. Themes and trends in the literature of the United States’ different time periods and people groups will be examined, and a variety of genres will be explored. Systematic vocabulary study, continued review, and exercise of English writing conventions will be incorporated throughout the year. Prerequisite: English II 110125 AP ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITION Advanced Core Alternate: 11, 12 Credit: 1 This is a college-level course in reading and analyzing prose and writing. The reading assignments will be many and challenging, although not necessarily long. The writing demands will also be rigorous. Students are expected to take the AP exam in English Language and Composition in May. Prerequisite: English II Teacher and Administration Approval 110135 AP ENGLISH LITERATURE AND COMPOSITION Advanced Core Alternate: 11, 12 Credit: 1 AP Literature and Composition is designed as a college level English course. This course covers a variety of novels, short stories, dramas, and poetry with an emphasis on writing and literature interpretation. Major texts include The Great Gatsby, Hamlet, Jane Eyre, 1984, and Death of a Salesman. The work is rigorous, and the content is challenging. Students are expected to take the AP Exam in English Literature and Composition in May. Prerequisite: English II Teacher and Administration Approval
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MATHEMATICS DEPARTMENT 120211 PRE-ALGEBRA: Elective Credit: 1 Students will progress from working with numerical expressions to manipulating algebraic expressions. The course seeks to develop thinking skills, the use of concrete experiences, and exploration. Coursework includes inequalities, an introduction to probability, geometry concepts and graphing linear equations. (Does NOT count as meeting a math requirement) Prerequisite: none Geometry Math Credit can be fulfilled with either of the two following full year courses. 120341 GEOMETRY: Core Credit: 1 This course in plane geometry is designed to develop logical thinking and deductive reasoning skills through a study of both formal and informal geometry, where both proofs and practical applications are stressed in the learning experience. This course develops the important geometric concepts and introduces trigonometry. Prerequisite: Pre-Algebra 120343 HONORS GEOMETRY: Advanced Core Credit: 1 This is a full year course in plane geometry. The course is designed to develop logical thinking and deductive reasoning skills through a study of both formal and informal geometry, where both proofs and practical applications are stressed in the learning experience. Students will learn the important geometric concepts, including introductory trigonometry. The ‘Honors’ class requires additional proficiency in applied problems, more complicated techniques and speed in obtaining the desired solution. Prerequisite: B or better in Pre-Algebra 120311 ALGEBRA I: Core Credit: 1 This course is a continuation of Pre-Algebra. This study begins with a review of the nature and structure of the number systems and the properties of number and algebraic terms. Students solve quadratic equations and systems of linear equations both algebraically and graphically. They perform fundamental operations upon polynomial and rational fractions and manage simple algebraic operations. Prerequisite: Geometry Algebra II Math Credit can be fulfilled with either of the two following full year courses. 120411 ALGEBRA II: Core Credit: 1 Algebra II expands on knowledge of the three key aspects of equations, graphs, and applications from Algebra I together combined with more rigorous use of variable abstraction. Topics included are linear equations, inequalities, matrices, determinants, quadratic functions, polynomial functions, powers, roots, radicals, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, probability, statistics, and a basic introduction to right angle trigonometry. Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra I
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120413 HONORS ALGEBRA II: Advanced Core Credit: 1 Algebra II expands on knowledge of the three key aspects of equations, graphs, and applications from Algebra I together combined with more rigorous use of variable abstraction. Topics included are linear equations, inequalities, matrices, determinants, quadratic functions, polynomial functions, powers, roots, radicals, exponential functions, logarithmic functions, probability, statistics, and a basic introduction to right angle trigonometry. The ‘Honors’ class requires additional proficiency in applied problems, more complicated techniques, speed in obtaining the desired solution, and the completion of a real-world applied math project. Prerequisite: Honors Geometry and Algebra I with B or better 120531 PRE-CALCULUS: Advanced Core Credit: 1 Semester 1: This course is the study of functions and includes polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and related piecewise defined functions. The algebra of functions, complex numbers and sequential functions are also studied. Students are encouraged to discuss and investigate mathematics collaboratively. All course work may be done collaboratively, except individual exams. Semester 2: This course is the study of trigonometric functions and topics in analytic geometry including conic sections, parametric equations, vectors and polar coordinates. Students are encouraged to discuss and investigate mathematics collaboratively. All course work may be done collaboratively, except individual exams.
COLLEGE CREDIT OPTION. Prerequisite: B or better in Honors Algebra II and Instructor Approval 120551 CALCULUS: Advanced Core Credit: 1 Semester 1: This course is the study of functions and their rates of change, the definite integral, differentiation techniques, and the characteristics and applications of the first and higher order derivatives. Students are encouraged to discuss and investigate mathematics collaboratively. All course work may be done collaboratively except individual exams. Semester 2: This course includes the study of the construction of functions from their rates of change, definite and indefinite integrals, integration techniques, and applications of integration. Students are encouraged to discuss and investigate mathematics collaboratively. All course work may be done collaboratively except individual exams. COLLEGE CREDIT OPTION. Prerequisite: B or better in Pre-Calculus and Instructor Approval
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MINI-TERM Mini-term is a unique and integral part of Western's curriculum. For the last five to seven days of school, students complete an intensive course of study. Often the course is taught off campus. Successful completion of Mini-Term each year is a requirement for graduation at Western Mennonite School. The goals of individual mini-terms correlate with Western Mennonite School's Mission Statement and our emphasis on equipping students for a life of service beyond our campus circle. Activities are planned to help students explore the unknown, become exposed to the needy world around us, and expand student awareness of other cultures and people. To give an idea of possible mini-terms offered, the following is a partial listing of mini-terms offered in the recent past: drama, backpacking, day hikes, working with Hispanic Mennonite churches in Oregon, photography, astronomy, building of leadership skills, and inner-city service experiences.
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PHYSICAL EDUCATION/HEALTH DEPARTMENT
123011 BASIC PHYSICAL EDUCATION: Required: 9 Credit: .5 Develops skills in new and old games. The student will receive opportunities to play in team situations and on an individual basis in games such as Flag Football, Volleyball, Basketball, Badminton, Pickle Ball, Soccer and other Recreational games. Various training techniques and procedures including the use of medicine balls, elastic bands and speed ladders will be introduced in this class. This course is required of all freshmen. Prerequisite: none 123013 ADV. P.E. & CONDITIONING: Elective: 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 The students will learn and develop the basic and more advanced skills in Conditioning & Weight Training, Speed & Agility Drills, and other Training activities. Warm Up activities will be done at the start of class by performing some form running warm ups and then ladders for foot speed and agility. Prerequisite: Basic P.E. 123110 P.E. CREDIT FOR SPORTS: Elective: 10, 11, 12 Credit: .25 Students in grades 10, 11, and 12 who are on the High Honors Graduation Plan may earn .25 Physical Education credit by participating and completing an athletic season (Soccer, Volleyball, Basketball, Baseball, or Softball) at Western Mennonite School. The maximum credit granted in this way will be .5 credit. Upon completion the student will receive a grade of Pass. Prerequisite: consent of Academic Advisor 114010 HEALTH I: Required: 9 Credit: .5 The purpose of this course is to provide students with factual information concerning the mental, physical, social, and spiritual aspects of health. Such information will enable students to make informed decisions regarding the health problems they may face on a daily basis. This course is required of all freshmen. Prerequisite: none 114012 HEALTH II: Required: 10, 11, 12 Credit: .5 The purpose of the course is to provide students with factual information concerning the mental/emotional, physical, social and spiritual aspects of health. This information will enable students to make informed decisions regarding the health issues they face on a daily basis with the purpose of developing and maintaining lifelong health and wellness. Each overarching theme has several individual sub topics that will be covered throughout the semester. Prerequisite: Health I
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SCIENCE DEPARTMENT 117031 INTRODUCTORY PHYSICAL SCIENCE: Required Core: 9, 10 Credit: 1 The objective of this course is to familiarize students with an overview of the two foundational sciences: chemistry and physics. Students will learn core concepts of chemistry, e.g., mass vs. weight, density, universal gas law, and an overview of the periodic table of elements. Also, students will learn core concepts of physics, e.g., forces (potential energy vs. kinetic energy), work, vectors, etc. These core concepts will be reinforced by inquiry based laboratory experiments. Students will be researching, designing, and implementing a pre-engineering project, e.g., First Lego Robotics. Students will learn industry standards for laboratory safety. This course is required for advanced science coursework. Prerequisite: none 117011 EARTH SCIENCE: Required Core: 9, 10 Credit: .5 This course will address fundamentals of Earth’s geology and geologic time, fossils, plate tectonics and astronomy. Labs and independent projects will connect students to the physical world around them and will bring opportunities for understanding the ways in which discoveries are made in these fields. Prerequisite: none 117511 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE: Required Core: 9, 10 Credit: .5 The objective of this semester course is to assist students with the development of environmental science fundamentals and stewardship of natural resources. Students will learn core concepts of environmental science: terminology, geophysical science, e.g., geology, minerals, hydrologic, atmospheric, etc., natural resources, e.g., fisheries, wildlife, etc., and human usage of resources, e.g., agriculture, mining, forestry and their impacts on the environment. These core concepts will be reinforced by inquiry based laboratory experiments. Students will learn industry standards for laboratory safety. Prerequisite: none 117111 GENERAL BIOLOGY: Required Core: 9, 10 Credit: 1 This course includes an in-depth study of the functions of the cell, chemical reactions, genetics, classification of organisms, ecology, and the study of human systems. Laboratory and field work, projects, and research papers are included learning activities.. Prerequisite: none 117211 CHEMISTRY Advanced Core: 11, 12 Credit: 1 The objective of this course is to provide students with the fundamentals of chemistry. Students will learn core concepts of chemistry: atomic theory, stoichiometry, factor-label method of problem solving, universal gas law, periodic table of elements, ionic and covalent bonding, acids and bases, etc. These core concepts will be reinforced by inquiry based laboratory experiments. Students will learn industry standards for laboratory safety. This course is for those pursuing a professional, college or university degree. Prerequisites: Biology, Algebra I Algebra II (recommended)
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117311 PHYSICS: Advanced Core: 11, 12 Credit: 1 The objective of this course is to provide students with the fundamentals of physics. Students will learn core concepts of physics: forces (potential energy vs. kinetic energy), factor-label method of problem solving, work, momentum, torque, vectors, universal laws of gravity, electricity, etc. These core concepts will be reinforced by inquiry based laboratory experiments. Students will be researching, designing, and implementing a pre-engineering project, e.g., model bridge building. Students will learn industry standards for laboratory safety. This course is for those pursuing a professional, college or university degree. Prerequisites: Algebra II Pre-Calculus (Recommended) 117131 ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY (A&P): Advanced Core: 11, 12 Credit: 1 The objective of this course is to assist students with the development of foundational knowledge of gross human anatomy and physiology. Students will learn core concepts of A & P: Latin/ medical terminology, basic biochemical/ hormonal pathways, musculo-skeletal systems, nervous system, cardiac system, digestive system, urinary system, and reproductive system. These core concepts will be reinforced by inquiry based laboratory experiments, e.g., systematic dissection(s). Students will learn industry standards for laboratory safety. This course is for those pursuing a professional, e.g., allied health & medical, college or university degree. Prerequisites: General Biology Chemistry (recommended)
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SOCIAL SCIENCE DEPARTMENT 127010 GLOBAL GEOGRAPHY: Core Required: 10 Credit: .5 This course is an overview of the world's people, places and environments and focuses on the interrelatedness of the world's regions and cultures. Emphasis is placed on the physical, political, social, economic, and cultural aspects of some of the areas of the world. Along with practical map skills, the relationship between current issues and global interdependence is an integral part of this course. Prerequisite: none 127025 AP HUMAN GEOGRAPHY: Advanced Core Alternate: 10, 11, 12 Credit: 1 AP Human Geography is a yearlong course that focuses on the distribution, processes, and effects of human populations on the planet. Units of study include population, migration, culture, language, religion, ethnicity, political geography, economic development, industry, agriculture, and urban geography. Emphasis is placed on geographic models and their applications. Case studies from around the globe are compared to the situation in both the United States and locally. CD-ROM and Internet activities are used to explore certain topics. All students are expected to take the A.P. Human Geography exam. Prerequisite: Teacher and Administration Approval 127211 US HISTORY Core Required: 10, 11 Credit: 1 This course is a survey of United States history from the period of Reconstruction to present day. The growth of the United States as a multicultural society will be examined giving careful attention to the impact of immigration and individual people groups and their impact on the overall development of the United States. The concept of Imperialism accompanied with tremendous growth of the United States will be studied. Various interpretations of history, primary sources, reading comprehension, written expression and research skills are highlighted. America's rise as the dominant world power is evaluated. Other topics covered are the force of western expansion, impact of different immigration waves, challenge of urbanization, inequalities of women and African Americans, consequences of American imperialism, factors that drew the United States into World War I, lasting impact of the Great Depression, influence of the United States' role in World War II, the nature of the Cold War era, the connection between the Civil Rights Movement and minority rights issues today, and implications of the Vietnam War. Both cultural and foreign policy conflicts are emphasized. Various interpretations of history, primary sources, reading comprehension, written expression and research skills are highlighted. Prerequisite: none 127215 AP U.S. HISTORY: Advanced Core Alternate: 10, 11, 12 Credit: 1 This is a college level class in American History. The reading assignments will be many and difficult, although not necessarily long. Students will be studying time periods starting in 1491 to the present, with an emphasis on the 19th and 20th centuries. Students writing skills will be strengthened and higher order thinking will be encouraged as students analyze historical data including important American documents. All students are expected to take the A.P. U.S. History exam. Prerequisite: Teacher and Administration Approval
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127041 WORLD HISTORY: Core Required: 10, 11 Credit: 1 The purpose of this World History course is to develop a greater understanding of the evolution of interaction between the different types of human societies. Using relevant factual knowledge used in conjunction with leading interpretive issues and types of historical evidence this course will study the political, economic, and social issues of the world using interaction as a uniting theme. The course builds on an understanding of cultural, institutional and technological precedents that, along with geography, set the human stage. This exploration of "history" will include many different subject matters; from geography and economics, to government and politics. The first semester will emphasize topics between roughly 5,000 BCE to 1850 CE. The second semester will emphasize topics between 1800 to the present. Prerequisite: none 127145 AP WORLD HISTORY: Advanced Core Alternate: 10, 11, 12 Credit: 1 The AP World History course focuses on developing students’ understanding of the world history from approximately 8000 BCE to the present. This college-level course has students investigate the content of world history for significant events, individuals, developments, and processes in six historical periods, and develop and use the same thinking skills and methods (analyzing primary and secondary sources, making historical comparisons, chronological reasoning, and argumentation) employed by historians when they study the past. The course also provides five themes (interaction between humans and the environment; development and interaction of cultures; state building, expansion, and conflict; creation, expansion, and interaction of economic systems; development and transformation of social structures) that students explore throughout the course in order to make connections among historical developments in different times and places encompassing the five major geographical regions of the globe: Africa, the Americas, Asia, Europe, and Oceania. Prerequisite: none 127300 AMERICAN GOVERNMENT: Core Required: 12 Credit: .5 This course is designed to be an introduction to government, with a specific concentration on the American system. Various types and theories of government are examined, along with the origins of the American government system. The federal system, public policy, and the spiritual and moral implications of participation in the government system are also discussed. Prerequisite: none 127020 GLOBAL CITIZENSHIP: Core Required: 12 Credit: .5 This course is designed to equip young disciples for the privileges and responsibilities of citizenship in the 21st century in the local, national and world contexts. Current global economic, environmental and spiritual challenges are emphasized. Students focus on specific needs facing the world community as a whole. Opportunities for active citizenship locally, nationally and globally are emphasized. It is also hoped that through the knowledge gained from this course students will respect and value diversity, become more willing to act to make the world a more equitable and sustainable place, and take responsibility for their actions and the actions of their country. Prerequisite: none
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127410 ECONOMICS: Core Required: 12 Credit: .5 This course examines the allocation of scarce resources and the economic reasoning used by people as consumers, workers, producers, and savers. Key elements include the study of scarcity, supply and demand, market structures, trade and the role of government. Prerequisite: none 127735 AP PSYCHOLOGY: Advanced Core Alternate: 11, 12 Credit: 1 The AP Psychology course is designed to introduce students to the systematic and scientific study of the behavior and mental processes of human beings and animals. Students are exposed to the psychological facts, principles, and phenomena associated with each of the major subfields within psychology. They also learn about the ethics and methods psychologists use in their science and practice. This is a rigorous and demanding course requiring students to have a strong work ethic, to read at a rigorous pace, and to complete a variety of writing assignments. This class is being taught at the college level, so class expectations are high. Students are expected to demonstrate strong writing and analytical skills and independent work habits. Students taking this course are expected to take the AP Psychology exam. Prerequisite: Health I; Teacher and Administration Approval
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WORLD LANGUAGES DEPARTMENT
112011 SPANISH I: Core: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: 1 This course provides students with the opportunity to develop basic communication skills in Spanish. Students acquire skills in listening, speaking, reading, and writing as they become acquainted with the cultures and peoples of the Spanish-speaking world. Prerequisite HS: none th Prerequisite 8 graders: B+ grade in Language Arts Teacher Approval 112013 SPANISH II: Core: 9, 10, 11, 12 Credit: 1 This course helps students build on the basic communication skills acquired in Spanish I. Students learn to express themselves on a variety of topics and to communicate in a range of verb tenses. This course also provides students with an opportunity to examine some of the unique contributions of Spanish speaking people as well as challenges faced by Spanish speaking countries. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in Spanish I or Teacher Approval 112015 SPANISH III: Advanced Core: 10, 11, 12 Credit: 1 The Spanish program is designed to enhance student knowledge of Spanish language and culture by making comparisons and connections to students’ backgrounds and experiences. In Spanish III students will reinforce what they already know about speaking, reading, writing and listening by scaffolding even more vocabulary, grammar and cultural knowledge. Additionally, students will study Spanish-speaking countries using authentic materials to learn about the differences between them, and to develop an appreciation and understanding for the way that others live. The class will focus on conversation skills and incorporating other content areas into the curriculum. Prerequisite: A grade of C or better in Spanish II or Teacher Approval
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