Course Catalog

Painting

This is a two-dimensional, introductory level course that offers a wide variety of visual tools, art media, and design techniques. Students discover the elements of art and principles of design through wet art making materials, including liquid ink, acrylic paint, water color, and printing ink. There will be discussions around art history, including modern art, with a focus on underrepresented, living artists. There will be an emphasis on composition, artistic voice, and problem solving. Students will practice art through daily smaller assignments, while also creating major art projects, and learning to provide constructive feedback for their own artwork and the work of others

Drawing

This is a two-dimensional, introductory level course that offers a wide variety of visual tools, art media, and design techniques. Students discover the elements of art and principles of design through dry art making materials, including graphite, colored pencil, charcoal, and pastels. There will be discussions around art history, including modern art, with a focus on underrepresented, living artists. There will be an emphasis on composition, artistic voice, and problem solving. Students will practice art through daily smaller assignments, while also creating major art projects, and learning to provide constructive feedback for their own artwork and the work of others. 

Intermediate Art

This class is designed for the second-year art student who has an interest in continuing many of the concepts, processes, skills and techniques introduced in both the Drawing and Painting classes. A wide variety of media will be used including charcoal, acrylic paint, ink, and printmaking. Class discussions and shared feedback will also be part of this class as well as developing one’s artistic expression.

Advanced Art

Designed for the advanced art student who wishes to further their studies in art. Students will continue projects that explore deeper concepts and techniques while developing their own individual voice and creative expression. The sketchbook will become an important tool in the development of ideas and experimentations. Advanced Art can work both on its own or as a pre-AP course before AP Studio Art. Dual College Credit (CCC) is also available. 

AP Studio Art

The AP Studio Art program is for the most highly motivated and very dedicated art student who is willing to take initiative and creative risks to develop a portfolio centered around a sustained focus of work. Students doing AP Art will be required to submit to the AP Board 15 pieces of art with a small written statement about their focus, the work they created as well as the processes involved in making the portfolio. Dual College Credit (CCC) is also available.

Ceramics 1

Learn how to work with clay and create some amazing three dimensional artwork! In this semester-long class you will learn different ways to create a combination of functional, decorative, and sculptural artwork. You will learn the essential handbuilding skills needed to make sculptures and dishes. You will also learn different ways to decorate, design, and add color to your clay pieces. We will also give and gain feedback on the artwork we create. Clay can be messy and a ton of fun, because of this we support ourselves and each other by keeping the classroom clean after each day that we work with clay. You will also get to learn about different Ceramic Artists to be inspired by each week. Creative freedom is highly valued and each project will be an opportunity to express yourself visually.

Ceramics 2

Explore, expand, and build on the skills you learned in Ceramics 1! This class is a chance to start learning how to use a pottery wheel to create clay artwork, create larger/more complex sculptures and functional ceramic artwork. You will also learn new glazing techniques and discover Ceramic artists to be inspired by. You will have the chance to explore the medium even more freely and openly than in Ceramics 1 and challenge yourself with risk taking and refining your skills!

Art & Technology

Are you inspired by cool graphics and exciting digital art? Art & Technology is a one-semester course that teaches art and graphics with a 21st century twist. Students will learn the Principles and Elements of Art & Design while they create work using computer aided graphic design programs. This class focuses primarily on using Adobe Photoshop to create our projects. The projects and skills involved will progressively become more complex throughout the semester. By the end of the course students will have a solid foundation in the toolbox as well as specific concepts needed to create digital artwork.

Digital Photography 1

This class is a beginner’s class teaching you how to see as well as the basics and fundamentals of photography as art. You will learn what makes a good photograph using the elements and principles of art & design. The class also focuses on how to edit your photography using Adobe Photoshop. You will be expected to be self-motivated as most photos will be taken as homework. The class will be used as studio time to work on editing photos as well as discussion on Photography techniques, concepts and artists. At the end of the semester students will make a portfolio of their work.

Digital Photography 2 & Advanced Digital Photography

This class is an Intermediate & Advanced level Photography syllabus. Students must have taken at least one semester of Digital Photography 1 before moving into Digital Photography 2, and at least one semester of Digital Photo 2 to access the Advanced Photo syllabus. A variety of subject matter, Post Processing skills and concepts will be explored as well as a deeper understanding of Photography as art and photojournalism. Topics discussed will include the morals and ethics of photojournalism and street photography as well as the rise of AI and its impact on Art & Photography. Longer, more involved independent projects will also be pursued for the Advanced students. Three Dual College Credits from CCC are available in Advanced Photography.

Yearbook

Students will produce the school yearbook using both journalistic and photographic skills. All students will be expected to interview and write for the book as well as take photos throughout the year. The reward is that the class is making a book that will last forever. To be successful in this class, students must have good attendance, work well in a team environment, stay positive and motivated, have the ability to speak to people they might not know, develop good questions for an engaging interview, write interesting stories, attend several functions outside of the class (sports, plays, concerts etc.), and meet very strict deadlines set by the publisher. As a business that is making a product sold to the public, this course and its curriculum provide real world experience. It will also help prepare students for many career environments.

Acting 1

Students of all experience levels are welcome in this introduction to acting course. The primary objective of this course is to help students of all levels gain greater confidence and skill in stage acting, and to develop an appreciation of theatre as a creative and collaborative art. Together we will create a culture where all students feel safe to explore vocal projection, body language, character development, improvisation, memorization techniques and a variety of acting techniques through in-class performance. Students will also read and analyze scripts, and will learn to give and receive feedback in a constructive manner. Participation in the Regional Acting Festival is encouraged but not required. Attending one outside of class performance as an audience member (either at MHS/MAA or another theatre) is required.

Acting 2

Acting 2 continues the work started in Acting 1. Students will deepen their knowledge of theatre through the study of various genres and playwrights including at least one modern play. We will continue reading and analyzing scripts, and deepen our understanding of various acting and performance techniques through in-class performance. Because some students take Acting 2 more than once, the content of the class will change year-to-year to individualize the class’s instruction for the interests, skills, and needs of the students. Participation in the Regional Acting Festival is required. Attending one outside of class performance as an audience member (either at MHS/MAA or another theatre) is required.

Directing

No experience is necessary for students to embark on their directing journey. This class will learn about dramatic action, stage movement, visualization and motivation. The student will become intimately involved with the craft of directing. This class involves directing other students on their in-class performances, as well as learning skills in script analysis and giving feedback in a constructive manner. Attending one outside of class performance as an audience member (either at MHS/MAA or another theatre) is required.

Stagecraft

This class will emphasize the mastery of technical theatre skills. Students will be responsible for the design, construction, set up and tear down of the technical elements of performances at MHS and MAA. Students will learn skills in the area of set, scenic paint, lighting, sound, props, costumes, marketing, hair/makeup, and more. Students will be instructed in safety regarding use of tools and lifting heavy objects. Class time will be spent learning and applying these skills for the needs of the current MHS/MAA theatre productions. Attending one outside of class performance as an audience member (either at MHS/MAA or another theatre) is required.

Symphonic Band

Symphonic band is a non-auditioned concert band ensemble at MHS/MAA for students who are working to improve performance skills to qualify for Wind Ensemble. An emphasis in this ensemble is developing a strong foundation of instrumental technique and ensemble skills. You will learn easy to intermediate concert band music, solo & chamber ensemble music, and beginning to intermediate music theory and ear training. Students will perform a variety of music at concerts throughout the school year, at home football and basketball games, and in the marching band. Attendance at all performances, purchase of concert attire, and the occasional before/after school rehearsal is required. Private lessons from a specialist on your instrument are highly encouraged, but not required. 

***Students with no prior band experience must contact the teacher before selecting this class to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Wind Ensemble

**Percussion students should forecast for either Symphonic Band or Wind Ensemble

Concert Orchestra

Chamber Orchestra

Advanced Orchestra is the premier string orchestra ensemble at MHS/MAA for students who are continuing to expand and refine their skills as musicians. Audition is required (each spring or at the end of semester 1 upon request). You will learn intermediate to advanced string orchestra music, solo & chamber ensemble music, and intermediate to advanced music theory and ear training. Students will perform a variety of music at concerts throughout the school year and at festivals/competitions, including OSAA district and state events. Attendance at all performances, purchase of concert attire, and the occasional before/after school rehearsal is required. Private lessons from a specialist on your instrument are highly encouraged, but not required. 

Intro to Jazz and Jazz Ensemble

***Jazz Concurrent Enrollment Policy***

The MHS/MAA Instrumental Music Department maintains a concurrent enrollment policy for all students participating in a jazz ensemble. All brass, woodwind, and percussion students must also be enrolled in one of MHS/MAA concert bands (symphonic band, wind ensemble). All bassists must be enrolled in one of MHS/MAA’s orchestras. Because of the collaborative educational structure this creates, the MHS/MAA jazz curriculum functions as an extension of the band and orchestra curricula. Occasional exceptions to this policy exist such as scheduling, “jazz-only” instruments (ex. guitar, piano), but these must be communicated and approved by the teacher.

Intro to Jazz

Intro to Jazz is a non-auditioned performance group at MHS/MAA for students who are working to improve performance skills to qualify for Jazz Ensemble. Students will study and perform various styles of instrumental jazz at an introductory to intermediate level. Instruments in this ensemble include saxophone, trumpet, trombone, piano, guitar, bass, and drumset - woodwind musicians (ex. clarinet, flute) are encouraged to learn saxophone for this class. Emphasis is placed on learning basics of style, articulation, beginning improvisation, listening skills, and the history of jazz music. Students will perform a variety of music at concerts throughout the school year. Attendance at all performances, purchase of concert attire, and the occasional before/after school rehearsal is required. Private lessons from a specialist on your instrument are highly encouraged, but not required. ***Students with no prior experience must contact the teacher before selecting this class to make the transition as smooth as possible.

Jazz Ensemble

CRLE

Jazz Ensemble is the premier jazz band at MHS/MAA for students who are continuing to expand and refine skills as jazz musicians. Audition is required (each spring or at the end of semester 1 upon request). Students will study and perform various styles of instrumental jazz at an intermediate to advanced level. Emphasis is placed on achieving a quality “big band” sound as well as improvisation, listening skills, and the history of jazz music. Students will perform at concerts throughout the school year and at festivals/competitions, including OSAA district and state events. Attendance at all performances, purchase of concert attire, and the occasional before/after school rehearsal is required. Private lessons from a specialist on your instrument are highly encouraged, but not required. 

Instruction focuses on vocal and performance techniques and musical literacy. The curriculum is taken from standard choral literature, pop, jazz, and musical theater. Students will have opportunities to work with guest clinicians. This is a participation and performance-based class. Although some points will come from sight reading, writing assignments, and singing quizzes, students will earn most of their points through daily participation and concert performances. Full credit for daily class means that the student was punctual and gave focus to choral work during class time. Full credit for each performance means that the student was professionally punctual, dressed for the performance, and fully prepared musically. Excused absences may be made up through a pre-approved assignment within a reasonable time after the absence for credit. Students will be exposed to various college options and prepared for college scholarships and choir auditions.

Dance 

A performing arts class where students explore the elements of dance in an inclusive, joyful space. Students try a diverse range of styles and dance forms including hip hop, musical production, expressive movement, line dance, modern and culturally relevant dance forms of students’ choosing. Emphasis on expression and process in non-gendered partnerships, small groups and whole class collaborations. Structured, consistent movement and practice as well as regular opportunities to workshop and perform. Wearing comfortable clothes is necessary, no shoes allowed on the dance studio floor. Welcoming and engaging to all levels, beginner through expert. This course can be used to fulfill .5 of the required PE credit for graduation. This course can be used to fulfill .5 of the required arts credit for graduation.

Fitness Fundamentals

This course is focused on lifetime fitness.Providing students with the knowledge and skills needed to use a variety of bodyweight resistance and flexibility training techniques for personalized fitness goals. Students will have opportunities to reflect on their physical, social, and mental growth. Activities may include but are not limited to: yoga, Pilates and interval training. 

Can be used to fulfill .5 of the required PE credit for graduation.

Physical Education 1

Strength Training

This course will build the foundations for all students in the weight room. Students will learn basic fitness concepts, functional movements, and body mechanics. Students will learn how to perform a wide variety of exercises using bodyweight, medicine balls, barbells, and other resistance training equipment to enhance overall health and fitness. This course can be used to fulfill .5 of the PE requirements.

Team Sports

This course will help students develop fundamental skills through various team sports.. The emphasis is directed toward participation and individual success through skills and lifetime activities. Activities may include but are not limited to: soccer, football, volleyball, basketball, kickball and softball.

This course can be used to fulfill .5 of the PE requirements.

NGSS Physics (Physical Science)

This 9th grade physics course addresses Disciplinary Core Ideas and Cross Cutting Concepts through the Science and Engineering Practices from the Next Generation Science Standards. This course is centered on the Core Ideas of Motion, Stability, Wave Energy, and Earth’s place in the universe. The Crosscutting Concepts of Patterns and Cause and Effect will be emphasized while engaging in 

Science and Engineering Practices. Through hands-on experiences, computational thinking, technology, discussions, writing, and using arts integration strategies, students will explore the following topics: Patterns, Velocity, Acceleration, Forces, Energy, Waves, Electricity, Magnetism, Power Production, and Climate Science.

NGSS Chemistry (Physical Science)

This 10th grade physical science course addresses Disciplinary Core Ideas and Cross Cutting Concepts through the Science and Engineering Practices from the Next Generation Science Standards. This course is centered on the Core Ideas of Matter and its Interactions, Energy, Earth’s Systems, and Weather and Climate. The Crosscutting Concepts of Patterns and Energy and Matter will be emphasized while engaging in all of the Science and Engineering Practices. Through hands-on experiences, critical thinking, data analysis, and argumentation from evidence, students will explore topics such as: Kinetic Molecular Theory, Elements, the Periodic Table, Bonding, Compounds, Nuclear Change, Chemical Reactions, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, and Climate Chemistry. 

NGSS Biology (Life Science)

This 11th grade life science course addresses Disciplinary Core Ideas and Cross Cutting Concepts through the Science and Engineering Practices from the Next Generation Science Standards. This course is centered on the Life Science Core Ideas of Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems, Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems, Inheritance and Variation of Traits, Natural Selection and Evolution, as well as, the Earth Science topics from the Core Ideas of History of Earth, Earth’s Systems, Weather and Climate and Human Sustainability. The Crosscutting Concepts of Patterns and Energy and Matter will be emphasized while engaging in all of the Science Engineering Practices. Through hands-on experiences, critical thinking, data analysis, and argumentation from evidence, students will explore topics such as: Biodiversity, Biomolecules, Cells, Genomics, Evolution, and Climate Change. 

Astronomy (Physical Science)

Dedicated to learning about the Earth’s place in the universe. Students will use a variety of equipment and technological applications to study and explore various topics regarding our planet. Students will participate in a field activity at an observatory or at the school. Among topics covered are tracking the angle of the sun as it approaches significant seasonal markers, differentiating variable stars from planetary systems, researching and presenting information about an astronomical object. These presentations can be presented in a variety of technological formats such as PowerPoint, HTML, or other electronic formats. We will discuss the astronomers who made great leaps in astronomy, and the nature of scientific discovery. In addition, discussion points will be raised about the presence of extraterrestrial life in the galaxy and beyond. Students will learn to read and evaluate mainstream and scientific literature from a variety of sources (internet, newspapers, and scientific journals). Students will be expected to write lab reports and conduct a career related learning experience.

Environmental Science 

There is so much to learn about environmental science! This class will focus on environmental issues and how they relate to our daily lives and the decisions we make. We will cover topics such as the types and impacts of power production, climate destabilization, the sources and impacts of greenhouse gasses, water quality, ocean acidification, and plastics in our environment. The goal is to connect these ideas to current events to help you understand what is happening in the world around you and to help you make informed decisions for your own lives regarding a range of environmental issues

Geology (Physical Science)

Grades: 11,12

Credit: .5

Course Length: Semester 1

CRLE

Students will learn the physical nature of our dynamic planet Earth. Students will participate in a field activity. Among topics covered are the analysis and categorization of various rocks and minerals, monitoring current earthquakes and other tectonic activities. Topics and projects will include; evaluating erosion and sedimentation behavior, researching significant natural disasters. These presentations can be presented in a variety of technological formats such as PowerPoint, HTML, or other electronic formats. Students will learn to read and evaluate mainstream and scientific literature from a variety of sources (internet, newspapers, and scientific journals). Students will be expected to write lab reports and conduct a career related learning experience.

Ecology (Life Science)

In ecology, we will learn about how the living things on Earth interact with their environments. In the first quarter, we will explore the systems of the Earth, energy cycling, carbon cycling, ecosystem dynamics, and human impacts on ecosystems. In quarter two, we will learn about adaptations and natural selection and their role in ecosystem dynamics. Our big ideas for this course include: energy transfer, interactions between systems, interactions between species and environment, and sustainability.

AP Biology (Life Science)

Advanced Placement Biology is a college level science course covering life science content standards including molecules to organisms, heredity, evolution, ecosystems, earth systems, and human activity. This content will be accessed through a variety of formats including reading informational text, written notes and reports, participating in lectures and class discussions, engaging in hands-on activities, and conducting lab inquiry activities. Students have an opportunity to earn college credit by scoring 3 or higher on the AP test in May or enrolling in dual credit through OIT. With the successful completion of this course, students will have the knowledge and skills to successfully continue their biology education in college.

Chemistry 2

Chemistry 2 is a course that focuses on the concepts of measurement, atomic structure, the periodic table, chemical bonding, stoichiometry of chemical reactions, the behavior of gasses, the chemistry of solutions and acid-base chemistry. We will use quantitative methods to further explore many of the concepts that were introduced in NGSS Chemistry. The Crosscutting Concepts of Patterns and Energy and Matter will be emphasized while engaging all of the Science Engineering Practices. Students will explore the topics through hands-on experiences, critical thinking, data analysis, and argumentation from evidence. NGSS Chemistry is a prerequisite for this course.

Economics

Government

The foundations of the American governmental system will be studied this semester. Students will study, interpret, analyze and evaluate different governmental and economic systems. By examining key primary documents (Declaration of Independence, The Federalist Papers, The Articles of Confederation, and The U.S. Constitution), students will gain a better understanding of how and why their political structure came into being. In addition, students will study the legislative, executive, and judicial components of the U.S. government.

World History

U.S. History

This course is a study of the American experience from a variety of perspectives. It will focus on expanding historical and cultural awareness, strengthening literacy skills, and thinking critically about social issues. Units will be organized thematically and include analysis of origins, identity, race, geography, immigration, regionalism, conflict, civil rights, politics, and changes through U.S. history. Students will use evidence in writing and academic discussions. Most coursework will be completed in class, although reading and writing outside of class will sometimes be required. This class prepares students for advanced placement courses.

Political Issues

This course gives students opportunities to learn about the political process, engage in respectful political discourse, and use analytical tools to form opinions about important social issues. Students will explore political identity, responsible consumption of information, and the history of voting rights in Oregon and the U.S., all while researching and discussing a range of current political issues. Students will be evaluated by participating in discussions, contributing to class dialogue in the form of shared projects, and by completing projects focused on real-life political participation. 

** This course meets the .5 government credit required for graduation. Credit is not accepted as a core course for NCAA, but is accepted by Oregon public universities. **

AP Human Geography

Strong reading, study and writing skills recommended. Advanced Placement Human Geography is a year-long course that aims to introduce students to the basic concepts of human geography and provide a geographic framework for the analysis of current world problems through the use of case studies. The course develops the students’ ability to ask geographic questions and acquire, organize and analyze geographic information. Units of study include population, culture, political geography, economic development, industry, agriculture, and urban geography. The course work will be accelerated and demanding, with multiple chapters of college level reading required each week. Students take an Advanced Placement exam in May and if they achieve a high score, may be able to receive college/university credit in geography. As this course is a year-long study, students forecasting for this selection will not be able to drop the course at semester.

* THIS COURSE CAN BE APPLIED TOWARDS THE HONORS AND/OR THE CAPSTONE DIPLOMA. *

AP World History

This course investigates significant events, individuals, developments, and processes from 1500 to the present. In addition to preparing students for the AP © Exam, this class will focus on expanding your global awareness, strengthening your reading and writing skills, and helping you think more critically about social issues. Students develop and use the same skills, practices and methods employed by historians: analyzing primary and secondary sources; developing historical arguments; making historical connections; and utilizing reasoning about comparison, causation, and continuity and change over time. The course will consist of five thematic units:

I. Land-Based Empire & Transoceanic Interconnections

II. Revolutions & Consequences of Industrialization 

III. Global Conflict

IV. Cold War & Decolonization

V. Globalization

This class is structured like an introductory college-level History course; students should be prepared for a heavier workload. This course includes opportunities for students to earn college credit through the Oregon Institute of Technology, with a grade of C or higher.

* THIS COURSE CAN BE APPLIED TOWARDS THE HONORS AND/OR THE CAPSTONE DIPLOMA. *

AP U.S. History

This class is structured like an introductory college-level History course; students should be prepared for a heavier workload. This course includes opportunities for students to earn college credit through the Oregon Institute of Technology, with a grade of C or higher.

This course is designed to provide students with the analytic skills and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and materials in U.S. history. The program prepares students for intermediate and advanced college courses by making demands upon them equivalent to those made by full-year introductory college courses. Students should learn to assess historical means, their relevance to a given interpretive problem, reliability, and importance; and to weigh the evidence and interpretations presented in historical scholarship.

AP United States History is designed to prepare students for the rigor of scholarship and writing expected in college-level courses. Students study history as a series of interconnected events rather than as isolated dates, learning to critically analyze the cause and effect relationships of those events. As students progress through the course, they learn to find and assess primary documents as well as secondary sources. Finally, students learn to incorporate outside sources into persuasive essays that demonstrate logical reasoning and present evidence to support the author’s conclusion. 

* THIS COURSE CAN BE APPLIED TOWARDS THE HONORS AND/OR THE CAPSTONE DIPLOMA. *

AP U.S. Government

This class is structured like an introductory college-level Political Science course. This course includes opportunities for students to earn college credit through Southern Oregon University, with a grade of C or higher.

The course will address the following units:

I. Foundations of American Democracy

II. Interactions Among Branches of Government

III. Civil Liberties and Civil Rights

IV. American Political Ideologies and Beliefs

V. Political Participation

Reading primary and secondary informational texts will be the cornerstone of this course. Students must be prepared to read and take notes outside of class, and come to class prepared to discuss course material. Much in-class time will also be devoted to discussing links between current issues and course readings.

* THIS COURSE CAN BE APPLIED TOWARDS THE HONORS AND/OR THE CAPSTONE DIPLOMA. *

Basic Math 1

This is an alternative math class to the standard curriculum. Students work on a variety of math concepts such as reviewing the base-10 number system, place value, whole numbers, number lines, rounding, multiplication, division, fractions, decimals, ratios, measurements, introductory geometry concepts and proportions. Students earn a math credit if working towards a modified diploma and an elective credit if working towards a standard diploma. 

Basic Math 2

This is an alternative math class to the standard curriculum. Students work on a variety of math concepts such as fractions, decimals, percents, multiplication and division word problems, ratios, and probability. This class will also focus on consumer math skill concepts related to banking, percentiles, interest, budgeting, income/expenses, and statistics. Students earn a math credit if working towards a modified diploma and an elective credit if working towards a standard diploma.

Advanced Algebra Math Support

The course is designed for small group lessons that review and reinforce the lessons students are taught in Advanced Algebra or Algebra 2 for 10th graders. Class time will include direct instruction as well as time for review of current assignments and concepts from the student’s current math course.

Financial Algebra Math Support

Pre: IEP Placement/Learning Specialist Recommendation

The course is designed for small group lessons that review and reinforce the lessons students are taught in Financial Algebra. Class time will include direct instruction as well as time for review of current assignments and concepts from the student’s current math course.

Geometry & Data Reasoning Math Support

SLC

This school program works to increase a student’s independence in functional academics, life skills, vocational skills, transitional skills and social skills. These skills are taught in the school and applied in the surrounding community.

TLC

In the transitional learning center, students are supported in becoming effective, independent and conscientious learners while working towards graduation requirements. TLC classrooms value community, equity, and maintaining a safe, nonjudgmental space. We do this by celebrating and affirming our students' race, class, culture, background and various learning styles. Within a smaller classroom setting, students are provided a highly structured instruction centered both on core academics as well as social-emotional skills for regulating emotions to access the most inclusive environment available to them. 

Communication Skills

This is a full year building block class for 11th and 12 grade students with IEPs who struggle with communication. Our hope is for you to walk away this year with a better understanding of yourself in relation to the world you live in; where you are now in your development and learning, what kind of person do you want to grow into, a strong understanding of your emotions, needs, values, and boundaries and others perspectives, tools and resources to help you in your adult life, and experiences that help you see a bigger picture outside of school and into adulthood. With a neurodivergent lens, this course will cover topics such as identity, personal values, naming and identifying emotions, how to communicate who you are, understand different communication styles, instruction to help you successfully advocate for your needs and build positive relationships, how to navigate conflicts, problem solving, decision making, executive functioning, life skills, goal setting, and future planning. In addition, we will also be covering how to understand your IEP and use the information on the document to help you advocate for your learning needs.

Paths 2 the Future

This is a unique class offered using a research based curriculum developed from the University of Oregon. Student’s participate in a research based curriculum to discuss communication and self-advocacy skills, build self-confidence, and increase knowledge and awareness of disability, gender, career and college readiness. Students will participate in a variety of hands on experiences through field trips, college and career fairs, and guest speakers. This class is a replacement for the College and Career class required for grades 11 and 12.

French 1 and Spanish 1

Students will learn to communicate through listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities in the target language at the first-year level. The emphasis will be on communication in a variety of everyday situations focusing on self and family. Students will be expected to read and decipher meaning through simple/novice literary texts. Students will gain a general knowledge and understanding of the history, geography, and culture of the French and Spanish speaking countries. Students will be expected to do all nightly written homework, simple literary readings, study all vocabulary consistently, prepare for all assessments, and work in a rigorous high school environment. They will be expected to spend an average of one to two hours per week for out-of-class reading, studying, and completing written homework.

French 2 and Spanish 2

Students will continue to learn and develop their language communication skills through listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities in the target language at the second-year level. The emphasis will continue to be communication in a variety of everyday situations focusing on self and family. Students will be expected to read and decipher meaning through novice/intermediate texts. Students will gain a deeper knowledge and understanding of the history, geography, and culture of the French and Spanish speaking countries. Students will be expected to do all nightly written homework, novice/intermediate literary readings, study all vocabulary consistently, prepare for all assessments and work in a rigorous high school environment. They will be expected to spend an average of one to two hours per week for out-of-class reading, studying, and completing homework.

French 3 and Spanish 3

Students will continue to learn and develop their French and Spanish language communication skills through listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities in the target language at the third- year level. The emphasis will be oral and written communication through grammar and vocabulary acquisition. Students will be expected to read and decipher meaning through simple literary texts. The class will be conducted in the target language as much as possible. Students will be expected to spend average of one to two hours per week for out-of-class reading, studying and completing homework. For Spanish 3 3, the curriculum of this course is articulated with Clackamas Community College, and students will have the opportunity to earn twelve college credits with a passing grade at the Spanish 101, 102 and 103 levels.

Spanish 4Spanish 4

Students will continue to learn and develop their Spanish language communications skills through listening, speaking, reading, and writing activities in the target language at the fourth-year level. The emphasis will be extensive oral and written communication through complex grammar and vocabulary acquisition. Students will be expected to read and decipher meaning through literary texts and news articles. The class will be conducted in the target language as much as possible. Students will be expected to spend average of two to three hours per week for out-of-class reading, studying and completing homework. The curriculum of this course is articulated with Clackamas Community College, and students will have the opportunity to earn twelve college credits with a passing grade at the Spanish 201, 202 and 203 levels.

AP Spanish 5

Students will continue to learn and develop their Spanish language communication skills through listening, speaking, reading and writing activities in the target language through an Advanced Placement curriculum. Students will study grammar, vocabulary, current events, literature, history, geography, and culture of Spanish speaking countries that is comparable to a third-year university Spanish course. This class will be conducted primarily in the target language by the instructor, and students will be expected to utilize the target language to the best of their abilities. It will be expected that the out-of-class time for reading, studying and homework will be an average of two to three hours per week. Students will be able to earn college credit by taking and earning high marks on the Advanced Placement exam in May. All Advanced Placement test components and requirements will be addressed in this course throughout the academic school year. 

Heritage Spanish Literature I

The course allows students who are already Spanish speakers to reactivate the Spanish they know and develop it further. Students have the opportunity to build community and learn more about their language and cultural heritage together. This course offers Spanish-speaking students an opportunity to study Spanish formally in an academic setting even if they have not had a previous Spanish class, and it allows them to begin fulfilling the world language credits required to enter a 4-year college. 

Heritage Spanish Literature II

Completion of this and the prerequisite course gives students the 2-year language credits required for 4-year colleges. This course provides Spanish speaking students a continuation of formal study of Spanish with instructional goals focusing on advanced reading and writing, vocabulary development, exposure to the language and culture and its communities, and consciousness-raising activities about Spanish language and identity. This course expands the students’ bilingual range and moves learners beyond basic language development to a broader command of the language. 

Japanese Language

The four-year Japanese language instruction program at North Clackamas School District is designed to help students develop proficiency in listening, speaking, reading, and writing Japanese. At the end of the four-year program, students will possess a foundation in communication in the Japanese language that will enable them to continue to learn the language successfully at other educational institutions in the United States, or while living, working or studying in Japan. Cultural, philosophical, historical, social, and geographical information about Japan will be discussed and studied to help students develop a better understanding of both Japanese and American people and language. Performance in the classroom builds skills in how to conduct oneself in Japanese culture and use the Japanese language to communicate with others. All four levels of Japanese instruction are taught at the Sabin-Schellenberg Center. 

ASB/Student Government

Students will work for and with the student body in a problem- solving and project-planning atmosphere. Extensive work will be undertaken among elected officers using effective communication, activity planning, goal setting, public speaking, and time management skills. Students will demonstrate growth as leaders through planning and organizing school events such as homecoming, charity/fund-raising week, a blood drive, a canned food drive, and various assemblies. All students will conduct monthly meetings with student representatives to talk through student concerns and brainstorm ideas for upcoming events.

Students will also submit written reports, a leadership portfolio, and a self-evaluation.

Elementary Mentor

The focus of Elementary Mentor is to help elementary students engage in school by supporting them in classes, at lunch and during recess. Elementary Mentors go to North Clackamas elementary schools and work with students and classes most days of the school year. Before working with elementary students, Mentors attend a 3 day training at the beginning of the school year, and follow up training sessions occur when elementary schools do not have class. Mentors are positive role models being leaders in our community. They are expected to model positive student behavior and integrity. This class is graded on a pass/no credit basis. Grades are based on attendance, and communication and behavior are taken into consideration.

*Please note: while students may repeat Elementary Mentor, according to district policy, they cannot earn more than 1 elective credit towards graduation as an Elementary Mentor.

Credit Recovery

Credit: Students will receive 0.5 credit based on their CR course completion

Pre: Referral by a counselor

Credit Recovery offers students the opportunity to recover credits that they did not complete either by not passing or not taking the course.

Intro to Leadership

The overall objective of the class is to give students an opportunity to participate in activity-based experiences, which will give them opportunities to practice various skills. Units explored will be leadership styles, goal setting time management, coping with challenging situations, management skills, problem-solving techniques, group process, and types of public speaking. In addition, students use their acquired skills to plan, prepare, and help at various school service projects including school and community service.

Psychology

The nature and origins of mental and emotional experience are among the last and greatest unsolved scientific questions. Psychology is a field of study that examines these questions and attempts to apply

the answers to practical problems. This psychology course provides a guided exploration and survey of major concepts, research, and theories that describe

human behavior. Specific areas of study will include brain and body, learning and cognition, human development, consciousness, social psychology, sensation and perception, and psychological research methods. Students will also be expected to develop their own interpersonal skills and to monitor their own personal psychological well-being. Students will be assessed using formative and summative assessments, (labs, simulations, and a variety of culminating unit assessments).

AP Psychology

This class is structured like an introductory college-level Psychology course; students should be prepared for a heavier workload. This course includes opportunities for students to earn college credit through the Oregon Institute of Technology, with a grade of C or higher.

AP Psychology is an introductory college-level psychology course. Students cultivate their understanding of the systematic and scientific study of human behavior and mental processes through inquiry-based investigations as they explore concepts like the biological bases of behavior, sensation and perception, learning and cognition, motivation, developmental psychology, testing and individual differences, treatment of abnormal behavior, and social psychology.

* THIS COURSE CAN BE APPLIED TOWARDS THE HONORS AND/OR THE CAPSTONE DIPLOMA. *

Work Experience

Work Experience allows students who have a paid job outside of school to earn credit. They must complete 150 hours of work, show proof of those hours (via paycheck stub, etc.), and submit the required contract and employer evaluation. 

2.5 credits of work experience can be earned towards a high school diploma. Student will be graded on a Pass / No Credit(NC) basis. 

*Students cannot forecast for Work Experience, students must get a form signed by their employer and turn it into their counselor during the first week of the semester for it to be added to their schedule.

Mustang Market

In this class, you will run the Milwaukie High student store, the Mustang Market! You will learn customer service techniques, how to run a cash register and handle money, inventory procedures, management skills and employee relations. You will also learn how to set up and run various promotions, advertising techniques, and pricing policies. Self-motivated individuals are encouraged to fill out an application for a position. Students must have a strong work ethic and be a self-starter. Working well as an individual, as well as in a group, is critical to your success. This class will prepare you for an entry-level position at many businesses and will provide you with skills that could be used in many different careers. Students should expect to complete various activities each class period. Helping customers, working inventory, calling vendors, and cleaning are some of the activities that students can expect to do on a daily basis. No homework is assigned.

*Students cannot forecast for Mustang Market, they must get permission from the teacher the first week of the semester to have it added to their schedule.

Student Assistant/ Library

Student Assistant: The term “Student Assistant” shall apply to students who work under the direct supervision of a staff member in a classroom, an office area, or a service area. For this experience, the student shall receive a maximum of one (1) pass-fail credit during their high school career. Student assistant forms must be obtained from the counselor, completed and signed by the staff to whom student wishes to assist, and returned to the Counseling Office, on or before the established deadline.

Library Assistant: This course will acquaint students with basic library. The objectives are twofold: to improve personal library media skills and to provide experience of a vocational nature. Library assistants perform the daily, routine tasks necessary to keep the library running smoothly. Depending on individual strengths, students may also be assigned to special projects. Student assistants will become thoroughly familiar with the operation and arrangement of the MHS library, including accessing and sharing catalog and resource databases.

*Students cannot forecast for Student/Library Assistant. During the first week of the semester, students must get a form signed by the teacher/staff they want to assist and turn it into their counselor.

Office / Teacher Assistant

The terms “Office Assistant” and “Teacher Assistant” apply to students who work under direct supervision in a high school office or classroom. Positive work skills, excellent attendance, and friendly, courteous behavior are expected of all Assistants. Assistant positions will be graded on a pass/no credit/fail basis. Students cannot forecast for Office/Teacher Assistant. During the first week of the semester, students must get a form signed by the teacher/staff they want to assist and turn it into their counselor.

*Please note: while students may repeat these positions, according to district policy, they cannot earn more than 1 elective credit towards graduation for any combination of Office Assistant and/or Teacher Assistant positions.

AP Seminar

AP Seminar is a college-level course focused on introducing students to research methods. In this course students will think creatively and critically, research, explose, pose solutions, develop arguments, collaborate, and communicate using various media. Students explore real-world issues through a variety of lenses, consider multiple points of view to develop an understanding of complex issues and how they connect. Texts will include articles, research studies, foundational and philosophical writings, speeches, broadcasts, personal accounts, artistic and literary works.

Students will be required to complete the following during the course of the year:

AP Research

In AP Research, students cultivate the skills and discipline necessary to conduct independent research in order to produce and defend a scholarly academic paper. This class allows students to deeply explore an academic topic, problem, or issue of individual interest. Through this exploration, students design, plan, and conduct a year-long research based investigation to address a research question. 

This AP Research class will focus on a student’s selected interest which may include any of the STEM disciplines or a Humanities topic like Social Science, Art, Religion, or Literature to name a few.

MAA Geometry and Data Reasoning

This course, students will make sense of problems and perservere in solving them using appropriate tools, structures, and reasoning. The course will cover topics in the Geometry and Data Reasoning strands from the Oregon Mathematics Standards. Using arts integration strategies, students will:

• apply geometric transformation to figures through an analysis of graphs and understanding of functions
• construct and communicate geometric arguments through the use of proofs, logical reasoning, and geometric technology
• solve problems and interpret solutions of area and volume of shapes by applying concepts of congruence, similarity, and symmetry in authentic contexts
• apply concepts of right triangle trigonometry in authentic contexts to solve problems and interpret solutions
• formulate statistical investigative questions
• collect and consider data; analyze, summarize, and describe data interpret data and answer investigative questions
• understand independence and conditional probability and use them to interpret data

MAA Advanced Algebra

In this course, students will make sense of problems and persevere in solving them using appropriate tools, structures, and reasoning. The Course will cover topics in the Algebra, and Number and Quantity strands from the Oregon Mathematics Standards. Using arts integration strategies, students will:

• use algebraic reasoning to rewrite expressions in equivalent forms
• use algebraic reasoning to find solution to an equation, inequality, and systems of equations or inequalities
• analyze the structure of an equation or inequality to determining an efficient strategy to find and justify a solution
• make predictions in different applications using expressions, equations, and inequalities to analyze authentic contexts
• describe functions by using both symbolic and graphical representations
• compare and relate functions using common attributes
• represent functions graphically and interpret key features in terms of the equivalent symbolic representation
• model a wide variety of authentic situations using functions through the process of making and changing assumptions, assigning variables, and finding solutions to contextual problems
• understand and apply the real number system
• attend to units of measurement needed to solve problems through quantitative reasoning and mathematical modeling

MAA NGSS Physics

Using arts integration strategies, this 9th grade physics course addresses Disciplinary Core Ideas and Cross Cutting Concepts through the Science and Engineering Practices from the Next Generation Science Standards. This course is centered on the Core Ideas of Motion, Stability, Wave Energy, and Earth’s place in the universe. The Crosscutting Concepts of Patterns and Cause and Effect will be emphasized while engaging in 

Science and Engineering Practices. Through hands-on experiences, computational thinking, technology, discussions, writing, and using arts integration strategies, students will explore the following topics: Patterns, Velocity, Acceleration, Forces, Energy, Waves, Electricity, Magnetism, Power Production, and Climate Science.

MAA NGSS Chemistry 

Using arts integration strategies, this 10th grade physical science course addresses Disciplinary Core Ideas and Cross Cutting Concepts through the Science and Engineering Practices from the Next Generation Science Standards. This course is centered on the Core Ideas of Matter and its Interactions, Energy, Earth’s Systems, and Weather and Climate. The Crosscutting Concepts of Patterns and Energy and Matter will be emphasized while engaging in all of the Science and Engineering Practices. Through hands-on experiences, critical thinking, data analysis, argumentation from evidence, and using arts integration strategies, students will explore topics such as: Kinetic Molecular Theory, Elements, the Periodic Table, Bonding, Compounds, Nuclear Change, Chemical Reactions, Thermodynamics, Equilibrium, and Climate Chemistry. 

MAA NGSS Biology

Using arts integration strategies, this 11th grade life science course addresses Disciplinary Core Ideas and Cross Cutting Concepts through the Science and Engineering Practices from the Next Generation Science Standards. This course is centered on the Core Ideas of Matter and Energy in Organisms and Ecosystems, Interdependent Relationships in Ecosystems, Inheritance and Variation of Traits, Natural Selection and Evolution, as well as, the Earth Science topics from the Core Ideas of History of Earth, Earth’s Systems, Weather and Climate and Human Sustainability. The Crosscutting Concepts of Patterns and Energy and Matter will be emphasized while engaging in all of the Science Engineering Practices. Through hands-on experiences, critical thinking, data analysis, argumentation from evidence, and using arts integration strategies, students will explore topics such as: Biodiversity, Biomolecules, Cells, Genomics, Evolution, and Climate Change. 

MAA US History

MAA World History

Each quarter of this introductory course examines historical progression throughout a region: Africa, Latin America, Europe, Asia and the Middle East. Students will then analyze pre- and post-colonial eras within these regions, leading up to and following World Wars I and II. This class course fulfills the requirements for advanced placement courses.This class prepares students for advanced placement courses.