Course Catalog

PE269

Adaptive physical education is offered to those students who are unable to participate in the regular physical education program because of a physical disability.  In general, the program will provide basic instruction and include the following: 1. General developmental and conditioning activities, 2. Development of correct body mechanics, 3. Modified physical education and recreational activities and 4. Counseling, guidance and assistance in the adjustment and acceptance of each individual handicap. The program provides individual activities and group games and sports. 

A-G Credit:    None
Recommendation:    B or better in last PE class  
Offered at: NHS, VHS

MA267

Algebra 1 is a non-college preparatory math class. This course emphasizes the core content areas and includes ongoing basic skills instruction and practice. Upon completion of Basic Algebra with a grade of "C" or better, students may enroll in Algebra 1, the first course in the college prep sequence.

UC/CSU CREDIT: None
Prerequisite Staff Recommendation Required
Offered by: ACHS, VHS

SS815

This American Government course is a non-college preparatory class. The successful completion of American Government is required for graduation.  This course studies American political institutions, political processes and key political documents.  It examines the values underlying our governmental system.  Included is a study of the conflicts and problems facing the American political system in the modern world. The structure and function of our federal government is of primary concern in this course; however, state and local government is also studied.  This course helps the student to understand the ways in which human begins govern themselves and helps cultivate habits of democratic citizenship.  

UC/CSU Credit: None
Prerequisite: Staff Recommendation Required
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

SC312

AP Biology is a course designed to provide students with an opportunity to study the broad themes and interconnections of biology at the college level. Current research and discoveries will be emphasized for the purpose of providing a realistic understanding of the scientific methods and the importance of the continuous scientific investigation. Direct application of laboratory work will be emphasized. Extensive reading, research papers, and group work is required of all students. The general content areas include 1) Molecular and Cellular Biology, 2) Genetics and Evolution and 3) Organisms and Populations. The Advanced Placement test is given in May. Students enrolled in this course will be expected to take the AP exam.

UC/CSU Credit: (d) Laboratory Science
Prerequisites: Biology and Chemistry 
Offered by: ACHS, VHS

MA209

AP Calculus AB is a one-year course designed to give students the chance to learn college-level material in a high school environment. Students enrolled in this course will be required to take the AP Calculus AB Exam.  This course is especially well suited for students who are likely to be science, technology, engineering, or mathematics majors.  The purpose of this course is to cover differential and elementary integral calculus at a college level. Students will gain exposure to the conceptual and applicable knowledge of Calculus, and its relationship to the world around them. They will have gained insight regarding concepts they have previously learned and understood the relevance of future mathematical training. Technology will be used regularly in this course and as such Graphing Calculators will be required.  Topics to be covered in this course include, but are not limited to: limits, derivatives, definite integrals, indefinite integrals, and applications of these topics. These topics will be explored graphically, numerically, algebraically, and verbally. Within the above-listed topics are subtopics which include: products, quotients, the calculus of logarithmic functions, growth and decay, plane and solid figures, algebraic calculus techniques, and the calculus of motion.

UC/CSU Credit: "c" Mathematics
Offered by: ACHS, VHS

EN218 

This course engages students in becoming skilled readers of prose written in a variety of periods, disciplines, and rhetorical contexts, and in becoming skilled writers who compose for a variety of purposes. Students will become aware of the interactions among a writer’s purposes, audience expectations, and subjects as well as the way generic conventions and the resources of language contribute to the effectiveness in writing. AP courses mustcomply with the specific curricular requirements of the College Board advanced placement program. Students enrolled in this course will be expected to take the Advanced Placement exam.

UC/CSU CREDIT: "b" English
Placement Criteria: Multiple Measures  
Offered at: NHS, VHS

FL411

A-G Credit:    “e” Language other than English
        “g” Elective
Recommendation:     

AP French Language and Culture is equivalent to an intermediate level college course in French. Students cultivate their understanding of French language and culture by applying interpersonal, interpretive, and presentational modes of communication in real-life situations as they explore concepts related to family and community, personal and public identity, beauty and aesthetics, science and technology, contemporary life, and global challenges.

A-G Credit:    “e” Language other than English, “g” Elective
 

FL393

Advanced Placement Spanish will be a comprehensive, year-long, accelerated course covering all facets needed for a successful completion of the A.P. exam at the conclusion of the year. Consistent with other A.P. classes, it will be intensive as well as carry high standards and expectations. 

A-G Credit:    “e” Language other than English,  “g” Elective
Prerequisite (one of the following): a student must have passed Spanish 3 or Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2 with at least a B mark.
Offered at: NHS, VHS

FL456

This is a college level advanced Spanish course designed to prepare students for the AP Spanish Literature examination in May. The course presents examples of literary development from the Hispanic World, acquainting students with various genres, themes and styles of authors designated by the College Board. The class focuses on the close reading of individual literary works, while emphasizing the four skills of language: listening, speaking, reading, and writing. Students are expected to discuss and interpret literary themes, and write comparative analysis of the literature. The main elements of literature will be included in this course. Students are encouraged to take the AP Spanish Literature examination in May.

A-G Credit:    “e” Language other than English,  “g” Elective
Recommendation:    One of the following: Four years of Spanish as a foreign language; Three years of Spanish for Spanish Speakers; Taking the Advanced Placement Spanish Language Exam; Teacher recommendation
Offered at: NHS, VHS

FA646

This course is intended for those highly motivated students who are seriously interested in the study of art and who wish to pursue college-level studies while still in high school. Students have the choice of producing a Drawing or 2D-Design portfolio, over a period of one or two years. The requirements include submitting 5 original works as well as 24 other works in the form of slides. In May of each year, portfolios are sent to the College Board in Princeton New Jersey for grading.

A-G Credit:    “f” Visual and Performing Arts
        “g” Elective
Recommendation:    Art 1, 2, and teacher 

SS851 

AP United States Government and Politics provides an analytical evaluation of the foundations and practices of governance as they have evolved over the last 200+ years in the United States. Students will evaluate those foundations and principles at the core of our government.  In addition, they will analyze the purpose of the Constitution and its changing interpretation, the role of amendments with regard to civil rights and liberties, the roles of each of the three branches, the role of an ever enlarging bureaucracy, the role and increasing importance of public opinion and interest groups in the election process, and the changing role of political parties and evolving process of making government policy. 

UC/CSU CREDIT:    “a” History
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

SS813

Advanced Placement United States History is a survey course designed to provide students with the
analytical skills, and factual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems and material in
American history. It is a two semester course that allows students to receive first semester college credit
if the Advanced Placement exam is passed. Honors credit is automatically recorded whether or not a
student passes the Advanced Placement test. Qualified eleventh grade students may choose this
course. The Advanced Placement course is equal to an honors course with students GPA compiled on a
5.0 basis.

Graduation Credit: US History Requirement (C)
UC/CSU Credit: "a" History
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS
Prerequisite: Recommended a “C” or higher in World History.

SS840

This is a one year course designed to meet the World History requirement for tenth grade students as described in the California Department of Education’s Social Science Framework and the entry requirements of the University of California. The class meets the standards of an Advanced Placement class as described in the current College Board Bulletin and course description.

UC/CSU Credit: "a" History
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

MA189

Basic Math is a  is a non-college preparatory math class. Basic Math is a one-year course that may be repeated for credit in grades 9-12.  Students will continue to develop their arithmetic and pre-algebra skills within the context of reaching a level of proficiency that enables a successful transition into Pre-General Algebra.

UC/CSU Credit:    None
Prerequisite:    Staff Recommendation Required
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FA599

The color guard class offers instruction for all beginning and intermediate level members of the school’s Color Guard. Instruction will include movement basics, equipment basics on flag, rifle, and sabre, and performance observation and analysis, and basic design and choreography.

UC/CSU Credit: “f” Visual and Performing Arts
Prerequisites: Audition and/or demonstrate mastery of basic dance techniques.
Offered by: ACHS, VHS

MA208

Consumer math is a non-college preparatory math class. Consumer Math is a year-long course that uses Common Core High School-based math standards. Consumer math focuses on Algebra 1, Modeling, Geometry, Probability and Statistics to solve consumer and financial problems occurring in daily life. Inquiry-based problem-solving units involving purchasing, credit, banking, employment, taxes, budgeting and other fields of real-life situations are solved by applying relevant mathematical concepts.

UC/CSU CREDIT: None
Prerequisite Staff Recommendation Required
Offered by: ACHS, NHS

MS881

Directed Studies is a non-college preparatory class. This one‐year Directed Studies course is designed to help special teducation students progress in their general classes Students receive two hours of instruction per week in academic survival skills, two hours per week in tutor‐led groups, and one hour per week in focused study hall. AVID strategies will be used in this course and students will be required to keep a binder, participate in Socratic Seminar, tutorials, and Cornell note taking.. Instructional days will focus on the development of students’ time management, note‐taking, reading and writing‐to‐learn strategies, critical thinking, and college and career‐focused activities. On tutorial and study hall days, academic tutors, one Instructional Assistant, and one Resource Teacher will assist students in small groups with student‐generated academic questions with the process of learning through inquiry. Students are required to take notes during tutorial and use class and textbook notes to inform their decisions.

UC/CSU CREDIT: None
Prerequisite: Staff Recommendation Required
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

EN207

The focus of the English Language Development (ELD) course for students in grades 9 – 12 is to provide an articulated system of instruction that enables English Language Learners to gain proficiency in English so they are prepared to achieve mastery of the state standards for English Language Arts (ELA). The intent of the course is to provide instruction in ELD at just above the student’s English proficiency level with the aim of having students progress through the ELD levels to acquire the English language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking necessary to function proficiently at their grade level on the ELA standards. The ELD standards follow a research-based progression of second language acquisition from beginning to advanced language skills. The ELD standards are considered an onramp to the ELA standards. While the ELD/ELA standards map shows the grade 9-12 ELA standards next to the ELD standards, teachers will use the strategies, skill development, and cognitive rigor of the ELA standards as a tool in teaching the ELD standards at the student’s level of English proficiency.

UC/CSU Credit: None
Prerequisite: Proficiency in English is at Beginning or very Early Intermediate level
Offered by: VHS

EN138

English 11 is a non-college preparatory class.A year-long, ten credits, non-college preparatory, general course open 11th graders explores the works and themes of texts through novels, short stories and plays. In grade 11 students are increasingly sophisticated in their thinking and performances displaying a critical and thoughtful stance toward their coursework and the problems of the day. Their reasoning and debating skills never better, they welcome the opportunity to engage in meaningful discussions and debates. Expectations for the volume, pace, and depth of reading and writing increase to new levels.

UC/CSU CREDIT: "b" English
Placement Criteria: Multiple Measures  
Offered at:  VHS

EN207

The focus of the English Language Development (ELD) course for students in grades 9 – 12 is to provide an articulated system of instruction that enables English Language Learners to gain proficiency in English so they are prepared to achieve mastery of the state standards for English Language Arts (ELA). The intent of the course is to provide instruction in ELD at just above the student’s English proficiency level with the aim of having students progress through the ELD levels to acquire the English language skills in reading, writing, listening, and speaking necessary to function proficiently at their grade level on the ELA standards. The ELD standards follow a research-based progression of second language acquisition from beginning to advanced language skills. The ELD standards are considered an onramp to the ELA standards. While the ELD/ELA standards map shows the grade 9-12 ELA standards next to the ELD standards, teachers will use the strategies, skill development, and cognitive rigor of the ELA standards as a tool in teaching the ELD standards at the student’s level of English proficiency.

UC/CSU Credit: None
Prerequisite: Completion of Course 1 with a grade of C or better; or, demonstration of proficiency in English at the Early Intermediate level. 
Offered by: VHS

SS885

Ethnic Studies is the interdisciplinary study of communities of color, emphasizing their social and cultural histories and contemporary experiences. Students analyze systems of power and participate in civic engagement to address issues of race, privilege, and power. Histories of ethnic communities and their movements for change, historically, are often under-represented in school textbooks; exploring these histories will provide students with a powerful way to understand race, ethnicity, nationality, and culture, and how these concepts shaped the history of the United States and continue to inform contemporary policy.

Graduation: Ethnic Studies Requirement (S)
UC/CSU CREDIT: "g" elective
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

FL415 

This is an accelerated version of the college prep course. It offers additional enrichment activities, which focus on acquiring language with a cultural context. It is the second year course of the French language sequence. While this course is designed to continue emphasis on skills developed in French 1, more attention is given to building a grammar foundation. Through films, readings, and contacts with native speakers,cultural differences are pointed out and emphasized. Students will be exposed to some aspects of "traditional" culture, mainly art, simple poetry, and possibly some music.  

A-G Credit:    “e” Language other than English, “g” Elective
Recommendation:    Students must have received a grade of “B” or higher in P French
Offered at: NHS, VHS

FL409

This is an accelerated version of the college prep course. It offers additional enrichment activities, which focus on acquiring language with a cultural context. The third year course of the French language sequence. While this course is designed to continue emphasis on skills developed in French 2, more attention is given Intermediate-Low to Intermediate-Mid level ability. Through the study of French speaking people and lands as well as the contributions of French speakers to the traditions and culture of America students will develop their speaking, reading, writing, and understanding of third level French. 

UC/CSU Credit:    “e” Language other than English “g” Elective
Prerequisite:    A “B”  in P French 2 or a "C' in H French 2
Offered at: NHS, VHS

FL410 

An accelerated course for fourth year students of French with many enrichment activates and projects. It is designed as a step toward UC honors credit in foreign language and taking the AP exam in the French language, The course continues to develop the receptive and productive language skills, emphasizing the use of French for active communication. The course will also provide students with a closer insight into the culture and literature of French speaking countries.

UC/CSU Credit:    “e” Language other than English,  “g” Elective
Prerequisite:    A “B” in P French 3 or a "C" in H French 3.
Offered at: NHS, VHS

MA294 

Honors Math 2 is the second course of a four-year sequence of mathematics classes which satisfy college entrance requirements. This course expands on the content of Math 1 while introducing concepts and techniques that will be essential for more advanced mathematics and science courses. Honors Math 2 extends students’ understanding of quadratic expressions, equations and functions, focusing on five critical areas: (1) extend the laws of exponents to rational exponents; (2) compare key characteristics of quadratic functions with those of linear and exponential functions; (3) create and solve equations and inequalities involving linear, exponential, and quadratic expressions; (4) extend work with probability; and (5) establish criteria for similarity of triangles based on dilations and proportional reasoning. The course is based on the Common Core Mathematics Content Standards adopted by the State Board of Education in August 2010 with real world application of higher level math. 

UC/CSU Credit: : "c" Mathematics
PREREQUISITES:  B or above in Math 1
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

MA295

Honors Math 3 is the third course of a four-year sequence of mathematics classes which satisfy college entrance requirements. This course expands on the content of Honors Math 2 while introducing concepts and techniques that will be essential for more advanced mathematics and science courses. Honors Math 3 focuses on four critical areas: (1) apply methods from probability and statistics to draw inferences and conclusions from data; (2) expand understanding of functions to include polynomial, rational, and radical functions; (3) expand right triangle trigonometry to include general triangles; and (4) consolidate functions and geometry to create models and solve contextual problems. The course is based on the Common Core Mathematics Content Standards adopted by the State Board of Education in August 2010 with real world application of higher level math. 

UC/CSU CREDIT: "c" Mathematics
Prerequisite: Grade of B in H Math 2 or Grade of A in P Math 2
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

FL441

This is an accelerated version of the college prep course. It offers additional enrichment activities which focus on acquiring language with a cultural context. 

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Prerequisite: A "B" in H Spanish 1 or an "A" in P Spanish 1. 
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FL421 

An accelerated course for fourth year students of Spanish with many enrichment activities and projects. It is designed as a step toward UC honors credit in world language and taking the AP exam in Spanish Language. The course continues to develop the receptive and productive language skills, emphasizing the use of Spanish for active communication. The course will also provide students with a closer insight into the culture and literature of Spanish speaking countries.

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Prerequisite: A "B" in H Spanish 3 or an "A" in P Spanish 3. 
Offered at: NHS, VHS

FL396 

This is a one-year honors literature and content based course designed for students who are proficient in Spanish.  H Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2 is also an immersion class for students who have completed 3 or more years of Spanish.  This is an accelerated course and is taught entirely in Spanish.  This course will continue to develop the oral and written proficiency skills in the native language begun in Spanish for Spanish Speakers I, integrating history, geography, culture, and literature at a higher critical thinking level.   

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other than English
Prerequisite: Students must receive a grade of “B” or higher to move to next level
Offered by: NHS, VHS

FL453

Honors Spanish Speakers 3 is a rigorous course that builds upon the knowledge gained in P/H Spanish Speakers 2. It is a course that uses integrated skills to develop competence in reading, writing, listening, and speaking for students who are proficient in Spanish. This course continues to integrate history, geography, culture and literature giving students a global perspective of the Spanish speaking world. Unlike P/H Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2, the emphasis will be on the modern aspects of the Hispanic culture, to prepare the student for AP Spanish Language or AP Spanish Literature courses. This honors class offers the same curriculum as the P Spanish Speakers 3 course but is tailored for high-achieving students — covering additional topics or some topics in greater depth.

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other than English
Prerequisite: Students must receive a “B” or better in either P Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2, H Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2, or consent of instructor.
Offered at: NHS

HL100

This course will equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to think critically about their health,and make informed decisions to adopt and maintain health enhancing behaviors. Students will learn essential concepts related to personal and community health; how to access and analyze health information, products,and services; use interpersonal communication skills, decision-making processes and goal setting to enhance their health. They will evaluate and practice behaviors that reduce risk and promote health; as well as demonstrate how to promote and support personal, family, and community health.

UC/CSU Credit: None
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

HASL3
 
This honors course focuses on grammar, receptive and expressive skills, finger-spelling and the cultural aspects of native signers of ASL. Students will continue to develop effective communication in the language through delivery and receptive skills.  They will learn basic, functional vocabulary in American Sign Language and study some of the connections between language and culture.  Students will also develop a fluent style of delivery, including knowledge of all hand-shapes. They will continue to develop an understanding of structure and modes of delivery of the language, including the specialized written form of ASL. This course is the next section in the current ASL courses and a foundational knowledge in needed.

A-G Credit:    “e” Language other than English
“g” Elective
Recommendation:    Students must receive a C or better in ASL 2
Offered at: VHS

FA748

This class is open to students who want to perform with Marching Band/ Color Guard as non-instrumentalists. To enroll students must audition and be interviewed by director. Class involves year round activities.  Marching Band, Winter Guard, recruiting, and public performances are required for this class. The band will play at all home league football games.  Public performances are required as are some after school and evening rehearsals.

UC/CSU CREDIT: None
Prerequisite: An independent contract will be agreed upon by the Director and student. Subject matter may vary and student will be contracted into the student’s goals and expectations. Parent signature and understanding is required to complete the terms arranged in the contract.
Offered at: NHS

SC306

The Life Science course is a non-college preparatory class. It offers students with a broad base of knowledge and opportunities for exploration in the area of life science, including human, plant and animal biology, and Earth’s ecology. A hands-on, as well as an academic approach, will be implemented.

UC/CSU Credit: None
Prerequisites:  Staff recommendation required.
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

CC109

The Napa Valley College Statistics course offers an alternative fourth course to Pre-calculus. The use of probability techniques, hypothesis testing, and deductive techniques to facilitate decision-making.  Topics include descriptive statistics, probability and sampling distributions, statistical inference, correlation and linear regression, analysis of variance, chi-square, and t-test, and application of technology for statistical analysis including interpretation of the relevance of the statistical findings.  Applications using data from disciplines such as business, social science, psychology, life science, health science, and education.

UC/CSU CREDIT: "c" Mathematics
Prerequisite: B or better in Math 3, C or better in Honors Math 3 ,C or better in Honors or Prep Pre Calculus. (This is a dual enrollment course with Napa Valley College which requires a Permit to Attend Form) 
Offered at: NHS, VHS

FA629

This one-year course is designed for the student interested in continuing his/her/their development in the theater arts.  In the process of creating and viewing theater, students develop knowledge and skills that relate to multiple areas of learning. The course content involves the study of pantomime, improvisation, voice and diction, scene study and analysis and character development. The development of aesthetic perception, creative expression, historical and cultural context, aesthetic valuing and connecting and applying learned theater arts knowledge toward public productions in

UC/CSU CREDIT: (f) Visual and Performing Arts
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

SS802

(from California History-Social Science Framework, 2016)
Students consider the role of and necessity for government. Their study will be grounded in the
understanding that all citizens have certain inalienable rights such as due process, what to
believe, and where and how to live. This course is the culmination of the civic literacy strand of
history, social studies that prepares students to vote and to be informed, skilled, and engaged
participants in civic life. They will discover that all citizens have the power to elect and change
their representatives, a power protected by free speech, thought, and assembly guarantees.
They will learn that all citizens deserve equal treatment under the law, safeguarded from
arbitrary or discriminatory treatment by the government. The course is designed with an
emphasis on content, literacy, inquiry, and citizenship.

UC/CSU Credit: "a" History
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FL497 

This college prep course focuses on grammar, receptive and expressive skills, finger-spelling and the cultural aspects of native signers of ASL. Students will develop effective communication in the language through delivery and receptive skills.  They will learn basic, functional vocabulary in American Sign Language and study some of the connections between language and culture.  Students will also develop a fluent style of delivery, including knowledge of all hand-shapes. They will develop an understanding of the basic structure and modes of delivery of the language, including the specialized written form of ASL.

A-G Credit:    “e” Language other than English
Recommendation:    Students must receive a C or better to move to the next level
Offered at: VHS

FL498 

The second year course of the American Sign Language sequence.

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Prerequisite: A "C" in P American Sign Language 1
Offered at: VHS

MS928

Similar to AVID 9, This course is designed to prepare motivated students for entrance into college.  Students will focus on writing, inquiry, collaboration, reading, note-taking, time management, and organization to support their growth academically.  Twice a week, students will receive academic support through a collaborative tutorial model.  Students will learn skills to prepare them for college entrance examinations, including the SAT I and ACT.   Students will become experienced speakers and participate in timed writing assessments. Students will be required to develop a MultiGrade Level Portfolio and participate in student-led conferences. Students who take this course should be enrolled in other courses that meet the four-year college entrance requirements and participate in the PSAT.  

UC/CSU CREDIT: (g) Elective
Prerequisite:  Completion of AVID 9, or application & interview. 
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

MS927

This course is designed to prepare motivated students for entrance into college.  Students will focus on writing, inquiry, collaboration, reading, note-taking, time management, and organization to support their growth academically.  Twice a week, students will receive academic support through a collaborative tutorial model.  Students will learn skills to prepare them for college entrance examinations, including the SAT I and ACT.  Students will be required to develop a Multi-Grade Level Portfolio and participate in student-led conferences.  Students who take this course should be enrolled in other courses that meet the four-year college entrance requirements.  

UC/CSU CREDIT: (g) Elective
Prerequisite:  AVID in the 8th grade or application & interview. 
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

FA703

Open to genders identifying as male. This college-prep course meets the equivalent of a five period per week class and is designed for the beginning music student of any ability. Students study and perform various styles of choral music for bass and tenor voice ranges. Course includes practical singing technique, music performance practices and basic music reading skills. Students will develop aesthetic perception, creative expression and aesthetic valuing. They will study the historical and cultural context of music and learn to connect and apply learned music skills toward a career. Public performances are required. May be repeated for credit.

A-G Credit:    “f” Visual and Performing Arts
Recommendation:  

SC303

A one year course which fulfills college entrance laboratory science requirements for the University of California. This course emphasizes the development of scientific thinking through investigation of the natural world. The course is designed around the High School Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Performance Expectations for Life Science, and Earth and Space Science. Students engage in science and engineering practices to build, deepen, and apply their knowledge of core ideas and crosscutting concepts. Crosscutting concepts help students explore connections across the four domains of science, including physical science, life science, Earth and space science, and engineering design.

UC/CSU Credit: (d) Laboratory Science
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

CTE891

This course is a survey in business providing a multidisciplinary examination of how culture, society, economic systems, legal, international, political, financial institutions, and human behavior interact to affect a business organization's policy and practices within the U.S. and a global society. It demonstrates how these influences impact the primary areas of business including: organizational structure and design; leadership, human resource management, organized labor practices; marketing; organizational communication; technology; entrepreneurship; legal, accounting, financial practices; the stock and securities market; and therefore affect a business's ability to achieve its organizational goals. Students also gain skills to become college and career ready in the business world.

UC/CSU Credit:    “g” Elective
Offered at: VHS

FA707

A small, but select group of mixed voices who study and perform advanced a cappella choral literature. Frequent outside performances are required.  May be repeated for credit. 

A-G Credit:    “f” Visual and Performing Arts
Recommendation:    Concurrent enrollment in another choral group and Audition.

SC350

A one year course which fulfills college entrance laboratory science requirements for the University of California. This course emphasizes the development of scientific thinking through investigation of the natural world. The course is designed around the High School Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Performance Expectations for Physical Science, and Earth and Space Science. Students engage in science and engineering practices to build, deepen, and apply their knowledge of core ideas and crosscutting concepts. Crosscutting concepts help students explore connections across the four domains of science, including physical science, life science, Earth and space science, and engineering design.

UC/CSU Credit: (d) Laboratory Science
Prerequisite: Completion of Math 1 with a C or better.
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FA708

This chorus is open to any gender and is designed for students to move beyond basic understanding of choral/vocal music typically learned in a beginning high school choral/vocal music class to a more advanced understanding of literature, technique and expression. Chorus sings in a minimum of 3 concerts per year.  May be repeated for credit. 

UC/CSU Credit: (f) Visual & Performing Arts
Recommendation:    Audition

EN194

This rigorous, thematically organized course for college-bound students is intended to acquaint students with recurrent themes in American literature. In addition, this course is designed to improve the writing and cognitive skills of college-bound eleventh and twelfth grade students. The course requires substantial practice in the writing of structured papers, regular practice in informal presentations, and rigorous application of critical thinking skills. The course includes varied and frequent writing assignments that give students an understanding of the writing process. Grammar review, mechanics, and vocabulary development are taught in the context of writing assignments and literature. Students are given extensive practice in writing sentences of greater complexity and variety, thus developing their personal styles and voices.

UC/CSU Credit: "b" English
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FA719

This band class is the entry-level band for all incoming band students. It is a yearlong course intended for the intermediate instrumental music student. The course content involves a remedial review of instrumental music fundamentals with the emphasis on the elements of musical performance: concepts or pitch, rhythm, tone production, harmony, form, texture, dynamics, tempo and timbre. The development of aesthetic perception, creative expression, historical and cultural context, aesthetic valuing and connecting and applying learned performance toward careers in the performing arts are fundamental components of all instruction in the performing arts. 

UC/CSU CREDIT: (f) Visual and Performing Arts
Prerequisite: Should have 1-4 years of instrumental instruction
Offered at: NHS, ACHS, VHS

FA702

Open to any gender. This large, but select group of mixed voices alternates every other year between performance of classical choral works and staging a musical theater. This course is designed for students to move beyond basic understanding of choral/vocal music to a more advanced understanding of literature, technique, and expression. Concert Choir performs in a minimum of 4 concerts per year. May be repeated for credit. 

A-G Credit:    “f” Visual and Performing Arts
Recommendation:  consent of instructor and audition.

FA614

This one year, college prep course is for students with little or no dance training. The fundamentals of jazz dance will be emphasized. Each class will begin with a warm-up, including isolation exercises in which students move various body parts: head, shoulders, rib cage and hips. Basic ballet and jazz dance technique will be taught “center-barre” and “across the floor”. Students will be tested on isolated skills and several dance routines choreographed by the teacher throughout the year. Students will also have the opportunity to experiment with choreography in groups and create their own dances. Written summaries of supplemental readings or relevant Internet searches are required, as well as critiques of outside professional dance performances or telecasts.

A-G Credit:    “f” Visual and Performing Arts
Recommendation:    Audition, jazz uniform
Offered at: NHS, VHS

FA616

This one year, college prep course is for students with moderate dance training, who have successfully completed Dance 1. The fundamentals of jazz dance will be emphasized.

A-G Credit:    “f” Visual and Performing Arts
Recommendation:    Dance 1

FA617

This one year, college prep course is for students with dance training, who have successfully completed
Dance 1 and Dance 2.

A-G Credit:    “f” Visual and Performing Arts
Recommendation:    Dance 1 and Dance 2

FA621

Dance IV is for advanced dancers only. Triple turns, fouette turns, axles and switch leaps are required. This is a production and performance class. Both teacher and student choreographed dances will be included in the class. Public performances are mandatory. This course meets the Fine Arts graduation requirement for entry into the University of California system.

A-G Credit:    “f” Visual and Performing Arts
Recommendation:    Dance 1 and Dance 2

SS823

This one-semester course will deepen students’ understanding of the economic issues and institutions of the nation and the world in which we live. Students will first understand common economic terms and concepts and then compare and contrast economic systems with a focus on the market system. Students will then take an in-depth look at microeconomics and macroeconomics. Students will complete the semester concentrating on issues of international trade and will consider what factors, conditions and policies help developing nations sustain economic growth.

UC/CSU Credit: (g) Elective
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

EN272

The goal of the Expository Reading and Writing Course (ERWC) is to prepare college-bound seniors for the literacy demands of higher education. Through a sequence of eight to ten rigorous instructional modules, students in this yearlong, rhetoric-based course develop advanced proficiency in expository, analytical, and argumentative reading and writing. The cornerstone of the course—the ERWC Assignment Template—presents a scaffolded process for helping students read, comprehend, and respond to nonfiction and literary texts. Modules also provide instruction in research methods and documentation conventions. Students will be expected to increase their awareness of the rhetorical strategies employed by authors and to apply those strategies to their own writing. They will read closely to examine the relationship between an author’s argument or theme and his or her audience and purpose; to analyze the impact of structural and rhetorical strategies; and to examine the social, political, and philosophical assumptions that underlie the text. By the end of the course, students will be expected to use this process independently when reading unfamiliar texts and writing in response to them. The ERWC is closely aligned to the seven criteria of the UC English requirement. Students successfully completing this course develop skills, knowledge, processes, and dispositions in the following areas of academic literacy: reading rhetorically, writing rhetorically, listening and speaking rhetorically, and habits of mind.

UC/CSU Credit: "b" English
Prerequisite: English 1, English 2, English 3
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FL401 

The introductory course in the French Language sequence. Students will develop their communicative skills by using French daily, with integrated practice in listening, speaking, reading and writing in French. They will use the language to explore Francophone countries and cultures, and will make comparisons and connections with their own. This course is taught primarily in French, and requires daily preparation and practice.   

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Offered at: NHS, VHS

SC316

College preparatory laboratory science course which is intended to be an introductory course that focuses on fundamental concepts and presents the core material of anatomy and physiology in such a way that students understand it and can put it to use in their own lives.

A-G Credit:    “d” Laboratory Science
Recommendation:    P Biology and P Chemistry with a C or better
Offered at: VHS, ACHS

FA736

This college-prep course is intended for advanced instrumental music students. The course involves an advanced promotion of instrumental music fundamentals, emphasizing the jazz elements of musical performance, including pitch, rhythm, tone production, harmony, form, texture, dynamics, tempo, and timbre. The development of aesthetic perception, creative expression, historical and cultural context, aesthetic valuing, and connecting and applying learned performance toward careers in the performing arts are fundamental components of all instruction in the performing arts. This is a traditional jazz band. Trombone, saxophone, trumpet, piano, bass, guitar and drums are standard personnel in the ensemble. Public performances are required as are some after school and evening rehearsals.

UC/CSU Credit: (f) Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisite: audition
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

MA290

Math 2 is the second course of a three-year sequence of college prep mathematics classes which satisfy college entrance requirements. Math 2 extends students’ understanding of quadratic expressions, equations and functions, focusing on five critical areas: (1) extend the laws of exponents to rational exponents; (2) compare key characteristics of quadratic functions with those of linear and exponential functions; (3) create and solve equations and inequalities involving linear, exponential, and quadratic expressions; (4) extend work with probability; and (5) establish criteria for similarity of triangles based on dilations and proportional reasoning.  

UC/CSU CREDIT: "c" Mathematics
Prerequisite:  Math 1
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

MA291

Math 3 focuses on four critical areas: (1) apply methods from probability and statistics to draw inferences and conclusions from data; (2) expand understanding of functions to include polynomial, rational, logarithmic, exponential, trigonometric and radical functions; (3) expand right triangle trigonometry to include general triangles; and (4) consolidate functions and geometry to create models and solve contextual problems.  

UC/CSU CREDIT: "c" Mathematics
Prerequisite:    Math 2
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

SC334, SC335

A one-year course, which fulfills college entrance laboratory science requirements for the University of California. This course emphasizes the study of the ocean and its environment above & below the surface. The first semester focus is on physical processes such as plate tectonics, currents, and the properties of water. The second semester focus is on the biological aspects such as the interrelationships between the ocean and the plants & animals which inhabit it. This course meets one semester of Physical Science credit and one semester of Life Science credit.

A-G Credit:    “d” Laboratory Science                   
Recommendation:    Successful completion of Biology and a Physical Science class.
Offered at: VHS, ACHS

FA726

This class is a yearlong, college prep class intended for the intermediate music students. The course content involves a remedial review of instrumental music fundamentals with the emphasis on the elements of musical performance; concepts of pitch, rhythm, tone production, harmony, form, texture, dynamics, tempo, timbre. The student must have prior experience in their chosen performing instrument. Private lessons are encouraged. Prearranged auditions and Director’s signature is required. This class acts as the "Junior Varsity" Band and will be participating in the Marching Band activities. Seasonal, as well as other public performances, will be part of this class.

UC/CSU Credit: (f) Visual & Performing Arts
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

SC362

A one-year course, which fulfills college entrance laboratory science requirements for the University of California. This course emphasizes the development of scientific thinking through investigation of the natural world. The course is designed around the High School Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS) and Performance Expectations for Physical Science, and Earth and Space Science. Students engage in science and engineering practices to build, deepen, and apply their knowledge of core ideas and crosscutting concepts. Crosscutting concepts help students explore connections across the four domains of science, including physical science, life science, Earth and space science, and engineering design.

A-G Credit:    “d” Laboratory Science
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

SS825

This is a college prep elective that qualifies for the UC “g” elective requirement. The curriculum for this course engages students in the scientific study of behavior and mental processes including human thought, emotion, and actions. Psychology is an empirical science that studies biological and social bases of behavior.

UC/CSU Credit: "g" Elective
Offered by: ACHS, VHS

FL 438

The introductory course in the Spanish Language sequence. Students will develop their communicative skills by using Spanish daily, with integrated practice in listening, speaking, reading and writing in Spanish. They will use the language to explore Hispanic countries and cultures, and will make comparisons and connections with their own. This course is taught primarily in Spanish, and requires daily preparation and practice.    

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

FL440

Students will develop their communicative skills by using Spanish daily, with integrated practice in listening, speaking, reading and writing in Spanish. They will use the language to explore Hispanic countries and cultures, and will make comparisons and connections with their own. This course is taught primarily in Spanish, and requires daily preparation and practice.    

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Prerequisite: Students must receive a grade of “C” or higher in P Spanish 1
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FL442

The third year course continues the studies emphasized in Spanish 2. Because the emphasis of the class is on oral communication, Spanish will be the language of instruction. All students are strongly encouraged to speak only in Spanish to the best of their ability while in class. If a student has a question about grammar, etc. that he/she is unable to express in Spanish, he/she may ask in English and an explanation will be given in English in order to clarify any unclear points. 

UC/CSU Credit:    “e” Language other than English, “g” Elective
Prerequisite:  Spanish 2 
Offered at: ACHS, VHS

FL 392
 

This college prep course is designed for students who are proficient in spoken Spanish. It is also an immersion class for students who have completed two years of Spanish.   The course is designed to enrich reading and writing skills with integrated instruction in  history, geography, culture, and literature.  

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

FL 392
 

This college prep course is designed for students who are proficient in spoken Spanish. It is also an immersion class for students who have completed two years of Spanish.   The course is designed to enrich reading and writing skills with integrated instruction in  history, geography, culture, and literature.  

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FL 420

This is a one year college prep literature and content base course designed for students who are proficient in Spanish. Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2 is also an immersion class for students who have completed 3 years of Spanish. This course will continue to integrate history, geography, culture, and literature giving the students a global perspective of their culture and heritage. 

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Prerequisite: Oral proficiency in Spanish and students must receive a grade of “C” or higher in P Spanish for Spanish Speakers 1
Offered at: NHS, VHS, ACHS

FL398

This is the third year of the Spanish Speakers course offerings. Like Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2, it is a literature and content based course designed for students who are proficient in Spanish. The course continues to integrate history, geography , culture, and literature giving students a global perspective of their culture and heritage. Unlike Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2, the emphasis will be on the modem aspects of the Spanish culture, history, literature, and social issues.

UC/CSU CREDIT: (e) Language Other Than English
Prerequisite: Oral proficiency in Spanish and students must receive a grade of “C” or higher in P Spanish for Spanish Speakers 2
Offered at: NHS

FA727

This class is a year long, college prep class intended for the intermediate to advance, 9th grade-12th
grade instrumental music students. The course content involves a remedial review of instrumental music
fundamentals with the emphasis on the elements of musical performance; concepts of pitch, rhythm, tone
production, harmony, form, texture, dynamics, tempo, timbre. This class also severs as a component to
the Vintage High Schools Symphonic Orchestra.

UC/CSU Credit: (f) Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisite: audition
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

MS908

This course is for students elected to an ACHS student body office or students interested in student government. Students will develop the skills to plan and implement a variety of student lead activities. The course focuses on student government which includes parliamentary procedures, management, leadership and implementation of government in a school setting. Students will have actual experience in developing platforms and bringing key issues before the larger student body.

UC/CSU Credit: (g) Elective
Prerequisite: Application, interview, teacher recommendations, minimum 2.25 GPA and no loss of credits during the previous semester.
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FA704

This college-prep course meets the equivalent of a five period per week class and is designed for the beginning music student of any ability. Students will study and perform various styles of choral music for soprano and alto voice ranges. Course includes practical singing techniques, music performance practices, and basic music reading skills. Students will develop aesthetic perception, creative expression and aesthetic valuing. They will study the historical and cultural context of music and learn to connect and apply learned music skills toward a career. Public performances are required. May be repeated for credit.

UC/CSU Credit: (f) Visual & Performing Arts
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

SS801

(from California History-Social Science Framework, 2016)
In this course students examine major developments and turning points in American history from the late nineteenth century to the present. During the year the following themes are emphasized: the expanding role of the federal government; the emergence of a modern corporate economy and the role of organized labor; the role of the federal government and Federal Reserve System in regulating the economy; the impact of technology on American society and culture; changes in racial, ethnic, and gender dynamics in American society; the movements toward equal rights for racial, ethnic, religious, and sexual minorities and women; and the rise of the United States as a major world power. The course is designed with an emphasis on content, literacy, inquiry, and citizenship.

UC/CSU Credit: "a" History
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

FA737

This one year, college prep class is intended for students who audition and are ready for a more advanced performing group. It is is a smaller advanced concert band
or performing band.

UC/CSU Credit: "f" Visual & Performing Arts
Prerequisites: 3-4 years of instrumental instruction or equivalent, agreement to participate in public performances, and audition.
Offered by: ACHS, VHS

FA709

Women’s ensemble is a signing participation class that researches, rehearses, and performs choral music representing the classics as well as modern repertoire.  The class meets daily and performs at four major festivals. Students should be experienced in singing from previous school choruses, church choir or private study.  Each is assigned one of the four voice categories after passing an audition with the teacher.  

A-G Credit:    “f” Visual and Performing Arts
Recommendation:    Audition

SS836

Students in grade ten study major turning points that shaped the modern world, from the late
eighteenth century through the present, including the cause and course of the two world wars.
They trace the rise of democratic ideas and develop an understanding of the historical roots of current world issues, especially as they pertain to international relations. The course is designed with an emphasis on content, literacy, inquiry, and citizenship.

UC/CSU Credit: "a" History
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

MS827

This class provides continued training and practical experience for students interested in counseling and social/emotional support. These students will serve as peer mediators for their peers and at the Middle Schools and/or their High School.

A-G Credit:    None
Recommendation:    Genuine willingness to help others.  Students must be on track for graduation, good attendance, & discipline record. Teacher recommendation.

SC327

The Physical / Earth Science course is a non-college preparatory class. It is a one-year Earth Science course that meets the state and district standards for Earth Science as well as high school graduation requirements. The course will focus on Astronomy, Geology, Oceanography, and Meteorology, as well as investigate the recent changes to our environment. Students will learn to use the Internet for research and author a web page to inform future students and our community of current science issues.

UC/CSU Credit: None
Prerequisite: Staff recommendation required.
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

PE265

Physical Education is an essential part of the total educational process. Its contribution to each individual’s total education is unique. Through activities it provides the opportunity for continuous development of each student’s physical, mental, social, and emotional capabilities. It should stimulate an awareness of one’s own physical fitness and simultaneously develop an interest and appreciation of activity and its recreational aspects for the future.

UC/CSU Credit: None
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

PE264

One year, ten credits, REQUIRED for all 9th grade students. Physical Education 1 is designed to give students an opportunity to learn through a comprehensive sequentially planned Physical Education program in accordance with the California Model Content Standards for Physical Education. Ninth grade students will learn skills necessary to make choices, meet challenges and develop positive behaviors in fitness, wellness and movement activity for a lifetime. Student will design a personalized fitness program fro a healthy life-style. Units of instruction include: Introduction to physical education principles, physical fitness, individual and dual activities, rhythms/dance and aquatics. Students are required meet the “ healthy fit zone” on 5 of 6 components of the State Physical Fitness Test (Fitness Gram).

 UC/CSU Credit: None
Offered at: ACHS, NHS, VHS

SC357

The Physical / Earth Science course is a non-college preparatory class. Physical Science is a one-year course that will integrate the fundamental concepts from physics, chemistry, and earth science. Techniques for teaching the concepts will include hands-on investigation and experimentation, research, and problem-based learning. Throughout the course there will be an emphasis on reinforcing the process of science, investigation, and experimentation.

UC/CSU Credit: None
Prerequisite: Staff recommendation required.
Offered by: VHS

SS804 

This United States History course is a non-college preparatory class. This will be a year-long course in United States History designed for non-college prep students. It is designed to fulfill the US History requirement paralleling the curriculum used in the regular US History classes but is presented at a level that is appropriate for the special education student. GOALS OF THE COURSE The primary goal of the course is to help the students see the relationship between the past and the present in the development of the United States. Students will be asked to question how we became what we are today, both as individuals and as a nation. Major events and prominent individuals will be studied in order to help students answer this question.

UC/CSU Credit: None
Prerequisite: Staff Recommendation Required
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS

PE256

This year long course is designed to encourage student-athletes to develop high levels of strength and conditioning through free-weight training, Olympic-style lifting, plyometrics, multiple joint movements, agility exercises, speed drills and sport specific training.

A-G Credit:    None
Recommended Prerequisites: 1) grade of “B-” or better in P.E.9 class. 2) and pass 5 of 6 FitnessGram Tests (and/or permission by teacher). 
Offered at: NHS, VHS

MS92

Life skills and work skills. The work experience class will assist students in maintaining employment and troubleshooting any difficulties on the job. 

UC/CSU Credit:    None
Prerequisite:    Staff Recommendation Required
Offered at: VHS

SS842

This United States History course is a non-college preparatory class. This one year course provides a survey of the events and people who influenced the development of the modern world. COURSE TOPICS • The Industrial Revolution • The rise of Imperialism and Colonialism • World War I and its consequences • Totalitarianism and the modern world: Nazi Germany and Stalinist Russia • World War II - its causes and consequences • Nationalism in the contemporary world • the Soviet Union and China • the Middle East: Israel and Syria • Sub-Saharan Africa: Ghana and South Africa • Latin America - Mexico and Brazil.

UC/CSU Credit: None
Prerequisite: Staff recommendation required
Offered by: ACHS, NHS, VHS