Course Guide 2011-2012 - Bentonville Public Schools

Bentonville Public Schools500 Tiger Blvd • Bentonville, Arkansas • 72712Dear Students and Parents:Bentonville Public Schools maintain high expectations for all students and recognizethat teaching and learning are the top priorities in our work. Grades 9-12 are veryimportant stepping stones on the path to high school graduation and beyond and areamong the most exciting, fun, and busy times of your life. The curriculum in thesegrades is strong and challenging. Additionally, there are many clubs andorganizations that provide opportunities for leadership and participation. I would alsostrongly encourage you to consider volunteering for community service.This course information guide is designed to assist students and parents in planningfor a high school program of study that meets your goals and that fully prepares youfor success for whatever choices you make following graduation from BentonvilleHigh School.While there is much information provided in this guide, you will want to work closelywith your counselor as well as the administrative and teaching staff at your campus toaddress any specific, unique circumstances or concerns related to your particular postsecondarygoals. We look forward to working with you and welcome yoursuggestions for improvement. “To prepare students to achieve the high standardsneeded to meet the challenges of tomorrow” is the ultimate goal of the BentonvillePublic Schools. We hope you will join hands with us so that success for all studentswill occur.Sincerely,Gary ComptonSuperintendent of Schools2

Bentonville High School1801 SE J StreetBentonville, AR 72712Phone # (479) 254-5100Fax# (479) 271-1180www.bentonvillek12.org/bhs/Kim Garrett, PrincipalShirley Coleman, Assistant PrincipalJason Jedamski, Assistant PrincipalJack Loyd, Assistant PrincipalTommy Runnels, Assistant PrincipalChad Scott, Assistant PrincipalTim Sparacino, Assistant PrincipalJames Swim, Assistant PrincipalAlison Hoffman, Post Secondary AdvisorShonda Chamberlain, CounselorEmily Farley, CounselorJodie Fields, CounselorPattie Heitzman, CounselorJennifer Kelley, CounselorMarsha Matayo, CounselorLeslie Pappas, CounselorGeorge Radell, CounselorDana Watson, CounselorDistrict Website: www.bentonvillek12.org3

About Our SchoolsLocated in the northwest corner of Arkansas, Bentonville Public Schools lies in an explosivegrowth area with large numbers of managerial and professional citizens residing in thecommunity. Their personal and financial support of the district is evidenced by the excellenteducational programs and services provided by the district. High expectations for studentperformance – whether in academics, the arts, or athletics - are standard within theBentonville community.The mission of the district is to prepare students to achieve the high standards needed to meetthe challenges of tomorrow. Excellence and equity for all students are cornerstones. Over thepast few years, Bentonville has been recognized in a variety of ways for its superior academicperformance.Bentonville High SchoolBentonville High School is the flagship of the district’s 16 campuses. With over 3500students in grades 9 – 12, BHS is a comprehensive high school that meets the needs anddemands of students preparing for the future. 90% of its graduates continue their educationafter high school. The school day is based on a modified A/B block schedule with four 90minute classes per day. Students are enrolled in seven classes per semester; seminar is afeature in scheduling.BHS offers a wide array of challenging courses beyond the standard state curriculum. Twentyadvanced placement courses are offered for advanced learners who desire a high level ofchallenge and rigor. Students with special needs receive individual instruction through avariety of programs including English as a Second Language (ESL) and Special Education.Recognizing that student activities play an integral role in the total educational program, theschool offers a variety of extracurricular and co-curricular activities and clubs.BHS is organized into six learning communities with student membership in four of thecommunities based upon student choice. All freshmen are in the Freshman LearningCommunity.BHS is an International Baccalaureate World school and is a 2007 NCLB Blue Ribbon Schoolas recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. Additionally, BHS has been included asone of Newsweek’s Top 1000 High Schools as well as acknowledged as a “silver” medalschool by U.S. News & World Report.4

TABLE OF CONTENTSGENERAL INFORMATION………………………………………..Pages 6-9ALTERNATIVE METHODS TO EARN CREDITS……………………… 9-10GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS/INFORMATION…………………… 10-14SPECIAL SERVICES……………………………………………………….. 15TESTING REQUIREMENTS………………………………………………. 15STUDENTS NEW TO BHS………………………………………………….. 16-17SMALL LEARNING COMMUNITIES…………………………………….. 17-18COURSE DESCRIPTIONS/COURSE SEQUENCE……………………… 19-91English Language Arts/Communications………………………….. 19-28Fine Arts……………………………………………………………… 29-40Mathematics…………………………………………………………. 41-46Physical Education/Health………………………………………….. 47-51Science………………………………………………………………… 52-58Social Sciences……………………………………………………….. 59-64World Language…………………………………………………… 65-70Career and Technical Programs (Practical Arts)…………………… 71-91Agriculture Science and Technology………………………. 71-73Business Education………………………………………….. 74-79Family and Consumer Sciences…………………………….. 80-82Marketing and General Cooperative Education………….. 83-84Medical Professions…………………………………………. 85-87Trade and Industrial Education…………………………… 88-90Career Exploration…………………………………………. 91PLANNING FOR HIGH SCHOOL AND BEYOND……………………. 92-104College Timeline Checklist…………………………………………. 98-103College Admission Tests……………………………………………. 103-104BHS GRADUATION REQUIREMENTS…………………………………. 1055

Course Information GuideGrades 9-12A. General InformationThe information provided in this guide has been prepared to assist each student in developing a long-term programof academic preparation and course selection for the 2011-2012 school year.Attendance and Tardy PolicySuccess in the classroom often parallels student attendance. Learning is enhanced through the student’s interactionswith the teacher and other students; therefore, BHS has a strict attendance and tardy policy. Please review thisinformation in the Student Handbook which all students receive at the beginning of each academic school year. Theschool day is 8:55 a.m.—3:55 p.m.Auditing a ClassAuditing a class typically is not an option at Bentonville High School. The exception would be for those studentswho have transferred from another school and are required to be enrolled in seven courses but may not meet theattendance requirements mandated by the state to receive credit in the course.Closed Campus RulesBentonville High School is a closed campus. Students are required to be at school the entire school day. Once astudent arrives on campus, he/she must remain on campus until the end of his/her school day.Course AvailabilityCourses are offered as a result of student demand. If there is insufficient enrollment for a course, or if certifiedteachers are not available to teach the course, the course will not be offered and alternative selections must be made.Discrimination DisclaimerBentonville Public Schools does not discriminate in the application of its educational programs, nor in the treatmentof its applicants for employment, nor in any of its programs and activities, nor does it use any unlawful criteria suchas age, race, sex, handicap, religion or national origin in its dealing with employees, students, or the general public.Dropping A ClassStudents may request a schedule change the first five days of each semester. Arkansas state law requires a student tobe enrolled in a class for 60 clock hours in order to be eligible to receive 1/2 credit (1 semester). If there areextenuating circumstances which require a student to drop a class after the first two weeks, he/she does not meet thisstate requirement. Therefore, the student will receive an “F” for the class dropped and “no credit” for the new class.Enrollment PolicyStudents enrolling in Bentonville High School will need to complete a registration application through the registrar’soffice. Parents must provide proof of residency, copies of the student’s social security card, birth certificate,immunization records, and grades from previous schools. The student and parents need to make an appointmentwith a counselor to discuss graduation requirements and schedule classes. New students are enrolled from 8:30 a.m.to 11:00 a.m. each school day.6

Fifth Year Returning SeniorsStudents returning for a fifth year to complete graduation requirements do not have to enroll in a full-day schedule.Such students may choose to enroll in only the number of classes needed to graduate.Foreign Exchange StudentsBentonville High School welcomes foreign exchange students to our campus. Our students will be better for havingthe opportunity to learn about other countries, their cultures, and customs. The following practice has been adoptedto ensure that both the organization and the student understand the expectations of the school.• Approved agencies must be included on the Advisory List published by the National Association of SecondarySchool Principals and the Council on Standards for International Educational Travel. In addition, foreignexchange students will have a local contact person and will reside in the Bentonville Public School District.• A maximum of six students will be accepted for each academic school year. The student will be required toattend the full academic school year.• A maximum of three students will be accepted from any one organization. Foreign exchange students will notbe accepted after July 15.• Students shall be fluent in the English language.• Students attending classes from Labor Day to the end of the school year will be eligible to receive aCERTIFICATE OF ATTENDANCE if they attend classes at least 90% of the school days.• Foreign exchange students will be eligible to receive a BENTONVILLE HIGH SCHOOL diploma if they meetthe graduation requirements from Arkansas, Bentonville High School, and successfully complete their senioryear.• Students who have completed the equivalent of a high school diploma in their home country are consideredhigh school graduates and may not enroll at BHS as a foreign exchange student.• Transfer foreign exchange students will not be accepted during the school year.• Foreign exchange students will complete all immunizations required before being admitted.• Foreign exchange students will not receive priority scheduling.• Approved organizations will provide a transcript (translated into English) of the student’s academic record.• Foreign exchange students shall not be included in any class ranking lists nor shall a GPA be computed for thestudent.• Foreign exchange students will not be eligible for special programs such as special education services or section504 accommodations.• Foreign exchange students will not walk in the graduation ceremony.• To be recognized at the graduation ceremony, the student must be enrolled in Senior English and AmericanHistory, must not have failed any courses during the school year, and must not have excessive absenteeism.Full Time StudentsTo be considered a full time student, the student shall be enrolled in 7 classes (5 academic classes) each yearGrade ClassificationStudents are classified according to the number of credits they have earned. Credits are earned at the rate of 1/2credit per class per semester. No credit is awarded for seminar classes. Students must earn the following number ofcredits in order to be classified as sophomores, juniors, and seniors at the beginning of the academic year.• 3 core credits (English, math, science, social studies) to be classified as a sophomore• 10 credits to be classified as a junior• 17 credits to be classified as a senior7

Grading ScaleGrade Regular/Honors Advanced Placement/International Baccalaureate90 - 100 A - 4 points A - 5 points80 - 89 B - 3 points B - 4 points70 - 79 C - 2 points C - 3 points60 - 69 D - 1 point D - 2 points0 - 59 F - 0 points F - 0 pointsLoss of CreditA student may lose credit if the he/she has four (or more) unexcused absences in a class for the semester.Master ScheduleThe master schedule is developed after students are surveyed as to which classes they would like to take in thecoming school year. Every effort is made to spread out the courses that are only offered one or two periods so thatstudents have a wide variety of choices. Unfortunately, there are many courses at all levels whose enrollments onlyjustify having one or two sections of the course. Students will need to prioritize the courses they want to take andhave alternate selections for those courses that may be closed or present scheduling conflicts.Part Time StudentsBentonville High School does not accept part time students except in the following instances:• Fifth year seniors returning to earn credits in order to meet graduation requirements.• Students in special education who may be completing the goals stated in their Individualized EducationProgram (IEP).• Students who are pursuing special programs and have the approval of their BHS counselor.• Students in the pre-GED program who participate in GATEWAY.Repeating CoursesStudents may retake only a previously failed course. Both courses will be shown on the transcript with the firstbeing shown as a “NC” (no credit). Non-core courses may be retaken only once. The retake grade will be used forGPA and class rank.Report CardsReport cards are issued four times per year on a nine-week cycle.Schedule ChangesThe master schedule for the school year is constructed to fit the needs indicated by spring pre-enrollment. Studentsmay change their schedules during the first five days of school for only the following reasons:• To make up an “F” grade• Computer error• Outside credit earned• Misplacement due to lack of prerequisite or backgroundSenior Work Program/InternshipsSeniors who have applied and been accepted for the Marketing Work Internship program or the CTE Internshipprogram may carry five academic classes and be dismissed from school early to go to work providing they aremeeting graduation requirements without afternoon classes. Both programs provide students one-half credit persemester regardless of the number of class periods used at work. The Youth Apprenticeship Program also providesone-half credit per semester, and qualifying students may be dismissed early from school to go to the work site.8

Withdrawal PolicyWhen a student is withdrawing from school, the parent should either accompany the student or send a writtenstatement requesting withdrawal. The student should obtain a Withdrawal Form from the school registrar; completethe withdrawal process by returning textbooks; and clear accounts with the library, the cafeteria, and the main office.The BHS registrar will forward an official copy of the student’s transcript and other school records upon requestfrom the receiving school. A student who does not have a Withdrawal Form should not expect to enter anotherschool without considerable loss of time and trouble to all concerned.B. Alternative Methods To Earn CreditConcurrent EnrollmentConcurrent enrollment provides high school students the opportunity to enroll in college courses. Earned credits aregranted simultaneously by the high school and the college. Grades earned are placed on the student’s high schooltranscript, counted as an “honors” course if a prerequisite score is required on a test before enrolling in the course,and counted toward GPA and class ranking. For concurrent courses to fulfill a BHS graduation requirement, theconcurrent course must be placed on the student’s BHS transcript and will count toward GPA and class ranking.Applications for concurrent credit are available in the Counseling Center. Approval must be obtained prior toenrollment. Students must provide documentation of college enrollment with a school counselor. Concurrent creditmay be earned during the fall, spring, and/or summer term. It is the student’s responsibility to determine if acollege or university in which he/she will enroll in the future will accept these concurrent credits for collegecredit.• Concurrent students cannot enroll in Academic Skills courses.• Placement testing is required for most courses.• A student taking concurrent credit courses off campus may not elect to drop them and enroll in a BHS courseafter the first two weeks of the high school semester.If a concurrent credit course shows on the student’s current schedule and the student drops the course after the firsttwo weeks of the high school semester, he/she will receive an “F” on the high school transcript for that concurrentclass.• A three-hour (or three credit) college course is equivalent to one-half credit (one semester) of high school work.Any courses less than three hours do not count for high school credit.Criteria for concurrent enrollment are as follows:• A minimum cumulative 3.0 GPA. The specific GPA varies from school to school. NWACC requires a 3.0cumulative GPA; the University of Arkansas requires a 3.5 GPA.• Interested students must also have a minimum score on a national college placement test, such as the ACT,SAT, or COMPASS by May 15.NWACC requires subtest scores that are at or above the following minimum scores:English ACT 19; SAT 470; COMPASS 75Reading ACT 19; SAT 470; COMPASS 82(Used for science & social studies classes)Math ACT 21; SAT 460; COMPASS 65Correspondence Courses and Online CoursesNo more than two credits from correspondence courses and online courses (external to BHS authorized coursework) will be accepted toward meeting graduation requirements. Correspondence courses and online courses mustbe pre-approved by the SLC counselor.Generally, correspondence courses are semester based and earn 1/2 credit (one semester) each. Students must payfor tuition, books, and other fees associated with these courses.In order for a senior to be on the graduation list, grades for any correspondence course or online course must bereceived by May 1. Failure to meet this deadline may cause the senior to be omitted from graduation activitiesincluding being listed as a graduate on the program. Seniors should plan to complete and mail all correspondencelessons by April 1 in order to guarantee getting the test graded and the grade reported to BHS by May 1.9

Credit RecoveryThe purpose of the credit recovery classes is to provide students who have failed an academic course the opportunityto retake the course and earn credit toward high school graduation requirements. These courses are taught throughcomputer based coursework. These classes are offered during the school day and as after school courses andsummer school courses.GATEWAY Learning CommunityGATEWAY is an alternative learning program serving the needs of BHS students who are significantly behind inearning credits and who are at risk of graduating from high school. The program is staffed with certified teachers inthe four core content areas and with a half-time counselor. GATEWAY students experience learning in a smallerclassroom setting, have more individualized assistance from teachers, participate in online coursework, and have theopportunity to accelerate their acquisition of credits. Students enrolled in the Pre-GED classes are also part of theGATEWAY Learning Community. The purpose of the Pre-GED classes is to assist 16 and 17 year olds inimproving their reading, language and math skills to the level necessary for enrollment in the GED program atNorthwest Arkansas Community College. These classes are offered during the school day. Students participate inGED preparation until they pass the TABE test at Bentonville High School. Contact the GATEWAY administratorto learn more about the criteria for admission.REAPREAP provides educational services to BHS students who are carried through the expulsion process. In lieu ofofficial expulsion, these students may attend REAP during the length of the expulsion in order to continue theirprogress toward high school graduation. REAP is a collaborative alternative program that serves expelled youth ingrades 9-12 from Bentonville, Rogers, and Springdale school districts.Regional Technical CenterRTC is an area vocational/technical high school. For more information, see your counselor.Summer SchoolBentonville High School may offer limited summer school courses to students currently enrolled at BHS. Studentswho have a parent living in the Bentonville School District but who live with the other parent in another schooldistrict are not eligible to attend BHS Summer School. Information is available in the Counseling Center in April ofeach school year. Students are responsible for tuition cost, books, and transportation. They may request their gradesbe sent to BHS Counseling Center to receive credit for the courses completed.C. Graduation Requirements and InformationTo graduate from Bentonville High School, a student must earn a minimum of twenty-four (24) credits and have aminimum cumulative grade point average of 1.5000 (GPA is carried out four places). Credits are earned at the rateof 1/2 credit per class per semester. Seminar classes are non-credit periods. Twenty-one and one-half (21.5) creditsmust be academic classes. Students taking more than four credits of pass/no credit courses will need more than 24credits to graduate. For specific graduation requirements, see the inside back cover of this booklet.Early GraduationWhen a student has successfully completed courses required for graduation, he/she is eligible to graduate fromBentonville High School. All required coursework must be completed before the beginning of the next school yearin order for the student to be granted a diploma from the previous May’s graduating class.10

Bentonville High School Graduation RequirementsClasses of 2012 and BeyondThe following courses must be successfully completed during grades 9-12 for thegraduating class of 2012 and beyond.• 4 credits English I-IV or equivalents• 4 credits *Mathematics (must include one unit in algebra and one unitin geometry)• 3 credits Science (must include one unit in a physical science and oneunit in biology or its equivalent)• 3 1/2 credits Social Studies (must include one credit in U.S. History, onecredit in World History, 1/2 credit in Civics, 1/2 credit inGovernment and 1/2 credit in economics)• 1 credit Practical Arts (agriculture, business/marketing, family andconsumer science, medical professions, and/or trade andindustrial)• 1/2 credit Fine Arts (art, music, drama)• 1/2 credit Oral Communications• 1/2 credit Health• 1/2 credit Physical Education• 6.5 credits Electives• 2.5 ~ may be academic and/or **nonacademic electives• 4 ~ must be academic electivesTotal of 24 credits* If a course of study sequences algebra over a two-year period and geometryover a two-year period, students must complete all four years. All other mathunits must build on the base of algebra and geometry knowledge and skills.** Nonacademic electives are courses in athletics, physical education (beyondone credit), service credit, and the onsite portion of a work program.Academic electives are all other courses.*** For the graduating classes of 2012 and beyond, Smart Core requirementsmust be completed within the 24 credits required to graduate from BHS. Seeyour child’s counselor for more information.11

Honor GraduatesStudents may graduate from Bentonville High School with HONORS or HIGH HONORS if they meet the specifiedcriteria for their particular graduating class. Any student transferring from a private school or who has beenpreviously home schooled is eligible to be recognized as graduating with HONORS or HIGH HONORS ifhe/she meets the established criteria. See page 14 for the established criteria. The valedictorian, salutatorian, and topten graduates are selected from the HIGH HONORS graduates.Mandatory GraduationWhen a student has completed the required number of credits for graduation (for his graduating class) and has spentfour years in grades 9-12, the student will be graduated and will not be eligible to return to BHS to take additionalclasses. If a student meets the goals of his/her Individualized Education Program (IEP) in the case of specialeducation students, the student will not be eligible to return to take additional courses.Participation In Graduation CeremonyAll students must have completed graduation requirements before the day of graduation in order toparticipate in graduation exercises. Any student who does not meet graduation requirements before the graduationceremony may continue to complete the requirements in place for his expected graduation class. Typically, theserequirements are established no later than the year of the incoming freshman class, not withstanding anyrequirements that might be added by the State of Arkansas.Smart Core Requirements for Class of 2012 and 2013English – 4 creditsEnglish 9 th GradeEnglish 10 th GradeEnglish 11 th GradeEnglish 12 GradeOral Communications – ½ creditMathematics – 4 creditsAlgebra I or Algebra A & B (Grades 7-8 or 8-9)Geometry or Investigating Geometry or Geometry A& BAlgebra IIChoice of : Transitions to College Math, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Trigonometry, Statistics,Computer Math,Algebra III or an Advanced Placement mathematics(Comparable concurrent credit college courses may besubstituted where applicable)Natural Science – 3 credits with lab experience chosenfrom:Physical ScienceBiology or Applied Biology/ChemistryChemistryPhysics or Principles of Technology I & II or PICPhysicsSocial Studies – 3 creditsCivics or Civics/American GovernmentWorld HistoryU.S. HistoryPhysical Education – ½ creditHealth and Safety – ½ creditFine Arts – ½ creditCareer Focus – 6 creditsSMART CORE REQUIREMENTS FOR THE GRADUATING CLASS OF 2014 AND AFTEREnglish—4 unitsEnglish 9 th gradeEnglish 10 th GradeEnglish 11 th GradeEnglish 12 th GradeMathematics—4 unitsAlgebra I or Algebra A & B (Grades 7-8 or 8-9)Geometry or Investigating Geometry or Geometry A & B(Grades 8-9 or 9-10)Algebra IIFourth Math – Choice of: Transitions to College Math, Pre-Calculus, Calculus, Trigonometry, Statistics,, ComputerMath, Algebra III or an Advanced PlacementmathematicsComparable concurrent credit college courses may be substitutedwhere applicable.Natural Science—3 units with lab experience chosenfrom:Physical ScienceBiology or Applied Biology/ChemistryChemistryPhysics or Principles of Technology I & II or PIC PhysicsSocial Studies—3 unitsCivics½ unitWorld History1 unitU. S. History 1 unitOral CommunicationsPhysical EducationHealth and SafetyEconomicsFine ArtsCareer Focus12½ unit½ unit½ unit½ unit(may be counted toward SocialStudies or Career Focus)½ unit6 units

Arkansas Academic Challenge ScholarshipThe Arkansas Department of Higher Education sponsors the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship Programto recognize selected students for scholastic achievement as measured by their academic records and ACTassessment scores. Scholars for 2012 will be announced beginning in the spring of 2012 and the scholarship maybe renewed for up to 4 years. Visit www.adhe.edu for more information.Eligibility Requirements• Graduate from an Arkansas public high school during 2012, complete the state Smart Core and have anoverall GPA of at least 2.5 OR earn a 19 or better composite score on the ACT.• Graduate from an Arkansas public school during 2012 WITHOUT completing the state Smart Core and havean overall GPA of at least 2.5 AND earn a 19 or better composite score on the ACT OR pass all end-ofcourseexams with a score of proficient or higher.• Graduate from a private school, out-of-state high school (must be an Arkansas resident) or home school andearn a 19 or better composite score on the ACT.See your counselor for more specific information.There are no longer family income restrictions associated with theArkansas Academic Challenge Scholarship.13

Criteria for Bentonville High School Honor GraduatesHonorsIn addition to meeting BHS graduation requirementsand the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarshipcore course requirements*, a student must:• have a 3.5000 cumulative GPA at the end of eight(8) semesters along with 8 credits from Pre-APHonors, AP, or IB classes• successfully complete 26 credits by the end ofeight (8) semesters• have earned at least 2 credits of high school levelforeign language OR 6 credit hours of collegelevel foreign language. These credits must befrom the same foreign language.High HonorsIn addition to meeting BHS graduation requirementsand the Arkansas Academic Challenge Scholarshipcore course requirements*, a student must:• have a 3.7500 cumulative GPA at the end of eight(8) semesters along with 12 credits from Pre-APHonors, AP, or IB classes• earn a minimum of 2 credits from AP or IBcourses• successfully complete 26 credits by the end ofeight (8) semesters.• have earned at least 2 credits of high school levelforeign language OR 6 credit hours of collegelevel foreign language. These credits must befrom the same foreign language.* A student may choose to be a vocational completerrather than have two credits of the same foreignlanguage. A vocational completer must have aminimum of three units in a specific vocational area.SalutatorianThe salutatorian is the senior student who meets all ofthe following criteria:• meets the criteria to graduate with “high honors”• has the second highest GPA among the studentswho have met the criteria to graduate with “highhonors”• has been in continuous enrollment at BHS for fourconsecutive semesters, to include the springsemester of the senior year. For studentsgraduating in December, continuous enrollmentfor four consecutive semesters would include thefall semester leading to December graduation.In the event of a tie in GPA, a co-salutatorian will benamed.ValedictorianThe valedictorian is the senior student who meets all ofthe following criteria:• meets the criteria to graduate with “high honors”• has the highest GPA among the students who havemet the criteria to graduate with “ high honors”• has been in continuous enrollment at BHS for fourconsecutive semesters, to include the springsemester of the senior year. For studentsgraduating in December, continuous enrollmentfor four consecutive semesters would include thefall semester leading to December graduation.In the event of a tie in GPA, co-valedictorian will benamed.Top Ten GraduatesThe top 10 graduates of the senior class are those whomeet all of the following criteria:• Meet the criteria to graduate with “high honors”• Have the ten highest GPA’s among students whohave met the criteria to graduate with “highhonors”• Have been in continuous enrollment at BHS forfour consecutive semesters, to include the springsemester of the senior year. For studentsgraduating in December, continuous enrollmentfor four consecutive semesters would include the14 fall semester leading to December graduation.

D. Special ServicesAdvanced PlacementAn advanced placement course is a college-level course that follows the College Board Advanced Placementcurriculum. It involves an extensive accumulation of knowledge in the field that is tested on the AP exam. Collegesand universities have the option of accepting the AP results for college credit. For specific information, go towww.collegeboard.com and link to “colleges and their credit policies.” Students enrolled in AP courses must takethe AP exam in May.English As A Second Language (ESL)ESL is provided only for students who are eligible for services according to the federal and state guidelines. ESLsheltered course offerings are determined after students’ needs are assessed for the upcoming school year. For moreinformation, contact your counselor.Gifted/TalentedGifted education is provided for those students identified through a formal referral and evaluation process. Thesestudents are served through the following programs and classes: Advanced Placement, IB, honors classes, pre-APclasses, and concurrent enrollment in college.Homebound ServicesHomebound services are provided for students who cannot attend school due to a long term illness or disability.Applications for homebound instruction are available in the office. The student must provide necessarydocumentation from his/her doctor, and a committee meeting is held to determine course work. Credits earnedthrough approved homebound instruction may count toward graduation.Special EducationSpecial education is provided only for students who are eligible for services according to federal and stateguidelines. Education programs include the following: resource room, labs, self-contained classes, self sufficiencyprogram (SSP) and junior/senior work programs. For further information, contact your counselor or the Director ofSpecial Services.International Baccalaureate Diploma ProgrammeThe International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme is a rigorous and comprehensive curriculum designed tomeet the needs of college bound and highly motivated students. Students who successfully complete course workand examinations in IB can earn credit at colleges and universities not only in the United States but around theworld. The IB program will motivate students to develop their academic talents fully, including the process ofeducational inquiry. The program also includes a component that encourages and develops the students’ interest inbecoming more active and involved members of the community around them. For more information contact theBHS IB Coordinator.E. Testing RequirementsSemester/Final Examinations ExemptionsEven though they have the opportunity to earn multiple exemptions, students are required to take a minimumnumber of first and second semester tests in academic classes (any class other than Pass/No Credit). Students takingfinal exams are expected to follow the posted final exam schedule for their classes. Failure to do so may result in azero being posted for that test.Refer to the Student Handbook for test exemption procedures and grade level requirements.State TestingThe Arkansas Department of Education mandates specific tests. Juniors are required to take the state literacy examin the spring. Students who will complete algebra or geometry or biology are required to take the state end-ofcourse(EOC) test for the class in which they are enrolled. Remediation is required for non-proficient students.Algebra I students taking the Algebra I End of Course Exam must score at the minimum “passing” level. Studentswho do not score at the passing level must participate in remediation and subsequently retake the Algebra 1 EOCexam in order to be awarded credit in Algebra I and not jeopardize their graduation from high school. ACT 1307states that these students will be offered multiple retake opportunities in order to obtain the passing level score. Seeyour counselor or assistant principal for more information.15

F. Students New To BHSBentonville High School receives many new students each year. Our counseling staff works with transfer studentsand their parents to ensure appropriate placements in the courses needed to meet graduation requirements. Thepolicies listed below will explain how the placement decisions are made.Home School PolicyArkansas law specifies that a high school is not responsible for providing credits, grades, transcript, or diploma for astudent in home schooling instruction. However, the law goes on to state that the home-schooled student may earn adiploma by entering high school and completing a minimum of nine (9) months in school in classes of appropriateplacement. The student must also meet the graduation requirements for Bentonville High School.Interview and DocumentationDuring an interview the parent/guardian and student will be responsible for providing to the school counselor thefollowing documentation in order for the appropriate decision to be made regarding student placement in courses.This documentation will include but not be limited to:• Documentation that application for home schooling has been approved• A copy of the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) (required by Arkansas home school laws)• Documentation from the Home School Academy/Company showing courses the student successfullycompleted, dates of study, and student successful completion of courses, and• Curriculum guides/sample work completed by the student in each course where credit is being requested.Awarding of CreditWhen the appropriate documentation of work completed by the student is given to the school counselor, the workand documentation will be evaluated by a committee composed of a counselor, appropriate department facultymembers, and the grade level assistant principal. The decision to award credit in a specific subject area will bedetermined by considering the following:• The course work aligns with course offerings at BHS• There is evidence of mastery of the standards for the course being consideredThe committee may take any of the following actions on a course-by-course basis:1. Grant credit (any credit granted will be placed on the student’s transcript as “pass” or “credit” with no letter ornumerical grade assigned); or2. Grant credit contingent upon the student’s passing a subsequent course, making a satisfactory score on astandardized test, or providing additional information to substantiate the student has knowledge of a specificsubject area; or3. Deny credit.Transfer Students From Private U.S. SchoolsWhen a student transfers from a private school (accredited or non-accredited), a committee of appropriate personnelto include a counselor, department chair, and administrator will review and determine the awarding of credits andgrades. It will be the responsibility of the parent or guardian of the transferring student to provide school officialswith a copy of the most recent official student transcript, a copy of the private school course description book, andgraded samples of the student’s work for the review of the school committee.Weighted credit will be given ONLY for the transfer of successfully completed Advanced Placement (AP) andInternational Baccalaureate (IB) courses with verification of AP/IB exams taken. All other courses will receive noadditional weight in determining the grade point average for a student who transfers from a private school.16

Transfer From Other Public U.S. SchoolsWhen a student transfers from another accredited public high school, high school credits and grade point averageearned will be accepted and treated in a manner similar to credits and grade point average earned at BentonvilleHigh School. Bentonville High School will record courses from the previous school with the designated credits onthe transcript. Credit cannot be given for a course that shows as “no credit” on the incoming transcript.Weighted credit will be given ONLY for the transfer of successfully completed Advanced Placement (AP) andInternational Baccalaureate (IB) courses with verification of AP/IB exams taken. All other courses will receive noadditional weight in determining the grade point average for a student who transfers from a public school.If a student transfers from a non-accredited public high school, a committee of appropriate personnel to include acounselor, department chair, and administrator will review and determine the awarding of credits and grades. It willbe the responsibility of the parent or guardian of the transferring student to provide school officials with a copy ofthe most recent official student transcript, a copy of the high school course description book, and graded samples ofthe student’s work for the review of the school committee.Transfer From a School in a Foreign CountryWhen a student transfers in from an accredited American school in a foreign country, high school credits will beaccepted and treated in a manner similar to transfer from either a public or private school in the U.S.When a student transfers from a foreign school, credit will be accepted and treated in a manner similar to transfersform home school.• credit will be assigned as “pass” or “no credit”• courses will not be used to calculate GPA, honors graduation, or class ranking.When a students transfers from a foreign school and was enrolled in an accredited IB program, high school creditswill be accepted and treated in a manner similar to transfers from either a public or private school in the U.S.Students Returning from a Foreign Exchange Program• All classes taken overseas during a foreign exchange program will be reported on BHS transcripts as“pass/no credit.”• They will not be used to calculate GPA, honors graduates, or class ranking.G. Small Learning Communities (SLCs)Bentonville High School has grown very rapidly over the past few years. In an effort to help maintain the feel of asmaller school, BHE has established small learning communities for student and faculty organization. The learningcommunities are designed to accommodate students with similar interests and focus areas. All freshmen are inthe Freshman Learning Community (FLC). Sophomores through seniors are in the learning community of theirchoice based upon their interests and future goals. Each student within a learning community is asked to completethree credits in his/her chosen focus area. Each focus area has a list of classes/courses that can be taken to meet therequirement. Each learning community has a leadership team composed of an assistant principal, a counselor, anda teacher-leader. See your counselor for more information.BHS learning communities are as follows:FLCVPACSTEAMSCRUBSIMPACTGATEWAYFreshmen Learning Community for all freshmenVisual and Performing Arts CommunityScience, Technology, Engineering, Architecture, and Military CommunityHuman and Life Sciences CommunityInternational, Management, Public Service, Administration, Communications, andTechnology CommunityAlternative Learning Program for BHS students who are significantly behind incredits needed for graduation or who have need of a smaller learningenvironment.17

Focus Areas of Small Learning Communities for 2011-2012VPACVisual and Performing ArtsAuthor/Editor/WriterCommunication ArtsCosmetologyCulinary ArtsDrama / TheaterGraphic CommunicationsInterior DesignJournalistMusicVisual ArtsSTEAMScience, Technology, Engineering, Architecture,and MilitaryArchitectureAstronomer / MeteorologistComputer Engineering or ProgrammingEngineeringMechanical / Industrial EngineeringMilitaryNatural Resource Systems /EnvironmentalService SystemsPhysical SciencesAuto Collision RepairAviation Maintenance technologyBuilding Construction TechnologyGeographic Information SystemsWeldingStatisticianSCRUBSHuman and Life SciencesAnimal SystemsArcheology / Anthropology / PaleontologyCoaching / Physical Conditioning / TrainingEarly Childhood DevelopmentElementary EducationFamily & Consumer Sciences EducationLife ScienceMedical ProfessionalPlant Systems (Horticulture & Biological)Secondary EducationSports MedicineIMPACTGovernment, Business, and Public ServiceAdministrative Assistant / ClericalAgribusiness SystemsArchivist / Cartographer / Curator / Historian /LibrarianBanking / Financial ManagementDesktop Publishing & Interactive MultimediaGovernment & Public AdministrationInternational BusinessInterpreterLodging ManagementManagementMarketingPublic RelationsPublic Service / LawRestaurant and Food & Beverage ServicesSocial Services / Ministry / MissionarySports Management / MarketingCriminal JusticeGATEWAYAlternative Learning Program for BHS students who are significantly behind in creditsneeded for graduation or who have need of a smaller learning environment.18

Course DescriptionsGrades 9-12English Language Arts and CommunicationsEnglish IPre-AP English IEnglish IIPre-AP English IIEnglish IIIAP Language and CompositionEnglish IVAP Literature and CompositionIB English A1 HL**English Composition I**English Composition II*A History of Film*Mythology***Reading Comprehension and Composition, Grade 9***Reading Comprehension and Composition, Grade 12*These are one-semester elective courses.** These are one-semester concurrent credit courses through NWACC.***This is a one-semester remediation course.19

Forensics IForensics IIForensics IIIForensics IVDebate IDebate IIDebate III*Oral CommunicationJournalismYearbook IYearbook IIYearbook IIIYearbook IV*Creative Writing I: Prose*Creative Writing II: PoetryCreative Writing III*This is a one-semester course.Course DescriptionsGrades 9-12English Language Arts and Communications20

Course Sequence for English Language ArtsGeneral Program9th gradeEnglish I10th gradeEnglish II11th gradeEnglish III12th gradeEnglish IVAdvanced ProgramPre-APEnglish IPre-APEnglish IIAP Language &CompositionEnglishCompositionI & IIAP Literature &CompositionIB English A1HLIB English A1HL21

Course Title: English I 410001 & 410002Grade Level: 9Prerequisites: NoneIn English I, students will study important literary elements by reading a variety of short stories, non-fiction essays,novels, and dramas. In addition, they will review the parts of speech and their correct use, sentence structure, usage,and punctuation. Writing assignments will stress a variety of essays, and may include original poetry, fictionassignments, and a research paper. Vocabulary study is emphasized during the entire year. Students will engage inlectures, taking notes, group work, research, writing, literary analysis, and classroom presentations. Students will beexpected to complete independent reading assignments. Major pieces of work will include a minimum of fourformal essays and the following literature units: The Odyssey, Romeo and Juliet, Lord of the Flies, and To Kill AMockingbird. A writing portfolio or writing folder will be maintained by the student and the teacher.Course Title: Pre-AP English I 410003 & 410004Grade Level: 9Prerequisites: A or B in Pre-AP English 8 or A in 8th regularIn Pre-AP English I, students will study important literary elements by reading a variety of short stories,non-fiction essays, novels, and dramas. In addition, they will review the parts of speech and their correct use,sentence structure, usage, and punctuation. Writing assignments will stress essays, a research paper, and mayinclude original poetry and fiction assignments. Vocabulary study is emphasized during the entire year. Studentswill engage in lectures, taking notes, group work, research, writing, literary analysis, and classroom presentations.Students will be expected to complete independent reading assignments and participate in a variety of writingexercises. Major pieces of work will include a research/presentation project, a minimum of four formal essays andthe following literature units: The Odyssey, Romeo and Juliet, To Kill a Mockingbird, Lord of the Flies and GreatExpectations. A writing portfolio or writing folder will be maintained by the student and teacher.Course Title: English II 411001 & 411002Grade Level: 10Prerequisites: English IEnglish II students will study American literature through short stories, plays, novels, poetry, and prose selections,in addition to studying frequently encountered vocabulary and writing in a variety of modes. The students willparticipate in note-taking, group sharing, peer editing, and completing summative projects. Students will produce aportfolio, various writings, and group and personal projects. Students will study Julius Caesar, The Crucible, Intothe Wild, and The Turn of the Screw.Course Title: Pre-AP English II 411003 & 411004Grade Level: 10Prerequisites: at least a B in Pre-AP English I or an A in English ISophomore Pre-AP students study a variety of distinguished American writers and genres in addition to writingseveral compositions in the four modes. Students will participate in discussion, group activities, lecture andresponse guides, writing, grammar review, vocabulary study, and reading. Students will produce a portfolio, aresearch paper, and several in-class and out-of-class writings. Students will study Julius Caesar, The Crucible, Intothe Wild, The Turn of the Screw, The Adventures of Huckleberry Finn, and The Great Gatsby.Course Title: English III 412001 & 412002Grade Level: 11Prerequisites: English IIIn English III, students will study poets, playwrights and novelists. They will also read a variety of nonfictionessays. Students will keep a portfolio, participate in lecture, note-taking, group work, research, and analysis. Theywill write a variety of essays and reading responses. Teachers will emphasize reading and writing strategies.Students will study Macbeth, excerpts from Beowulf, and Night.22

Course Title: AP Language and Composition 517031 & 517032Grade Level: 11Prerequisites: NoneThe purpose of the AP English Language and Composition course offered to juniors is to enable students to readcomplex texts with understanding and to write prose of sufficient richness and complexity to communicateeffectively with mature readers. This AP English Language and Composition course engages students in becomingskilled readers of prose written in a variety of rhetorical contexts and in becoming skilled writers who compose for avariety of purposes. These literacy skills make students 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 contributeto effectiveness in writing.Course Title: English IV 413001 & 413002Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: English IIIIn English IV, students will write using a variety of essay styles incorporating all aspects of the writing process aswell as study world literature. Students will participate in lecture, note-taking, group work, discussion, research,writing, and analysis. Students will produce a senior portfolio, several essays, and responses to literature. Studentswill study Hamlet, The Kite Runner, Tuesdays with Morrie, and Fahrenheit 451.Course Title: AP Literature and Composition 517041 & 517042Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: English III AP, or English III Honors or approval of the AP Literature &Composition teacherIn this college-level course, AP Literature and Composition, students will study contemporary nonfiction by studentand professional writers and major works primarily by British and American writers. Students will participate inclose textual analysis and extensive reading assignments, writing activities, and exam preparation. Students willstudy Hamlet, Much Ado About Nothing, and Slaughter House-Five; write analytical essays over the major works;give individual and group presentations; produce a memoir project and a senior portfolio; and be expected to takethe AP Literature and Composition exam in May.Course Title: IB English A1 HL 517201 & 517202 517203 & 517204Grade Level: 11 12Prerequisites: Approval by IB Coordinator Approval by IB CoordinatorEnglish A1 HL is a college-level two-year literature course that encompasses the student’s junior and senior years.The course is international in scope and features literature from English and non-English speaking cultures. Asuccessful student will demonstrate a mastery of critical thinking, critical writing, and critical speaking that willprepare him/her for the IB examinations and papers.In the junior year, students will complete IB Parts One and Four. Assessments will include the IB required IndividualOral Presentation and World Literature Assignment One.In the senior year, students will complete IB Parts Two and Three. Assessments will include the IB required FormalOral Commentary and World Literature Assignment Two. At the conclusion of the senior year, students willcomplete the end of course Papers One and Two which are cumulative assessments. Each part of the syllabus requiresthe reading of three or four major works of literature and/or the study of groups of poetry or nonfictionprose.During the general course of study, instructors will use the following methods to evaluate diploma candidates:formal critical essays, objective quizzes and exams, individual and group presentations, informal journal keeping,and informal class discussion. These methods serve as active preparation for the six required HL evaluations.Students who enter the English A1 HL program will approach literature as a cultural, political, and social phenomenonthat crosses language barriers to emphasize the human qualities in all.23

Course Title: English Composition I 413007Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: 3.0 GPA, at least 19 on English ACT taken prior to May 15, college tuitionfee, college textbook feeEnglish Composition I, a semester course, is primarily a writing workshop in which students will be a community ofwriters working to improve existing skills and to develop new ones. The writing students do for this course willreflect the kind of writing expected in the other college courses, including summary, critique, and synthesis. EnglishComposition I is a college-level course; this will be reflected in the activities, in the standards, and in the personalresponsibility students will assume. Concurrent credit as well as the opportunity to enroll in Composition II will begiven only for final grades of “C” or higher. This course fulfills one semester of the fourth year of Englishrequired for graduation. This course must show on the BHS transcript and will count toward GPA. EnglishComposition I is considered an honors course.Course Title: English Composition II 413008Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: 3.0 GPA, at least 19 on English ACT taken prior to May 15, college tuitionfee, college textbook feeIn English Composition II, a semester course, students will build on the writing skills they developed inComposition I. Students’ writing will focus on literary analysis and personal response to work from a variety ofliterary genres. Concurrent credit will be given only for final grades of “C” or higher. This course fulfills onesemester of the fourth year of English required for graduation. This course must show on the BHS transcript andwill count toward GPA. English Composition II is considered an honors course.Course Title: A History of Film 513020Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: at least a C (both semesters) in previous English classThis semester elective course will explore the internal and external evolution of film in the United States from itsprimitive origins as a form of story telling at the turn of the century to its development as a powerful social forceby the 1970’s. The internal history of film involves its technology, studios, directors, writers, performers, andmost importantly, is narrative structure. The external history of film involves its relationship with the culture thatsurrounds it, shapes it, and responds to it. The larger goal of this course is to teach students how to criticallyanalyze and evaluate films as works of dramatic literature and cultural texts that open up a window into Americansociety. The students will write critical film reviews examining how and how effectively a film works for theviewer, and from this analysis learn how to use popular American film to understand competing perspectives onAmerican history, culture, and society.Course Title: Mythology 519060Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: at least a C (both semesters) in previous English classMythology is an academically rigorous semester elective course that examines the role of myth in literature,culture, politics, and personal life. Students will learn about myth criticism and how to examine myth andarchetype as it appears in print and film. The class will use texts such as Frazer’s The Golden Bough andCampbell’s The Hero with a Thousand Faces and Myths To Live By as foundation texts. Students will apply theirknowledge to texts such as Bullfinch’s Mythology, Beowulf, and “The Wasteland,” among others. Evaluationmethods will vary from intensive classroom participation and written criticism to objective exams. The class willappeal to those with an interest in literature, sociology, or psychology. A prospective student should have strongcritical thinking and writing skills.24

Course Title: Reading Comprehension and Composition 999990Grade Level: 9Prerequisites: Students who did not score at the proficient or advanced level on the 8thgrade Literacy Benchmark are required to take this class.This is a semester class for which students will receive no credit. The class is required for those ninth graders whodid not score at the proficient or advanced level on the 8th grade Literacy Benchmark. Students will work onimproving basic reading comprehension and composition skills. The students will take pre and post-tests todetermine improvement.Course Title: Reading Comprehension and Composition 99999SGrade Level: 12Prerequisites: Students who did not score at the proficient or advanced level on theGrade 11 Literacy Exam are required to take this class.This is a semester class for which students will receive no credit. The students will work on improving basicreading comprehension and composition skills. The students will take pre and post-tests to determineimprovement. Students who were not proficient or advanced on the Grade 11 Literacy Exam must be successful inthis class in order to receive credit for the spring semester of English III.Course Title: Creative Writing I: ProseGrade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: At least a C in the previous English ClassStudents in this semester-only prose creative writing class will gain experience in writing forms of prose includingshort fiction, scripts, and creative nonfiction. Writing will be evaluated through peer critique, self critique, andteacher critique—primarily in the writer’s workshop format and through each student’s Writer’s Portfolio.Students will sample the work of established and emerging writers in order to learn the craft of writing throughemulation. Assignments will vary including reading, writing (both in class and outside class), and presentingmaterial in a variety of formats. Students who are successful in this class may continue with Creative Writing II:Poetry or Creative Writing III.Course Title: Creative Writing II: PoetryGrade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: At least a C in the previous English ClassStudents in this semester-only poetry creative writing class will learn to express themselves through many differentpoetic forms and modes, such as the sonnet, sestina, villanelle, haiku, and pantoum forms. The poems will beevaluated through peer critique, self critique, and teacher critique—primarily in the writer’s workshop format.Students will sample the work of established and emerging writers in order to learn the craft of writing throughemulation. Assignments will vary, including reading, writing (both in class and outside class), and presentingmaterial in a variety of formats. Students who are successful in this class may continue with Creative Writing III.Course Title: Creative Writing IIIGrade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Recommendation of Creative Writing I or II instructor and a C or betterin Creative Writing I or IIIn this full year course, students will gain experience in writing in various modes: poetry, fiction, creativenonfiction, and script writing. Student work will be evaluated through peer critique, self critique, and teachercritique—in the writer’s workshop format and through the Masterpiece Project. Each quarter, students will add totheir portfolio in the form of a Masterpiece Project in order to create a significant body of work by year’s end. ThePortal Literary and Art Anthology will be produced and distributed by this class.25

Course Title: Forensics I 519061 & 519062Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneForensics I is a full year performance– based class that develops basic acting and speaking skills for competition.Students will be introduced to all acting/speaking events, but will be given specific instruction in: Tournamentbasics, Performance preparation, Prose/Poetry interpretation, Storytelling, Humorous/Dramatic Interpretation, andSolo and Duet Acting. Drama instruction will focus on basic acting techniques and stage movement. Speakinginstruction will focus on developing interpretive skills. Students may earn points toward gaining membership inthe National Forensics League. Students will be required to travel to AAA-sanctioned qualifying tournaments.Forensics I students will participate in at least one tournament and no more than 7 tournaments.Course Title: Forensics II 519063 & 519064Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Forensics IForensics II is a full year performance—based class that develops advanced acting and speaking skills for competition.Students will be given advanced performance theories and techniques in area of chosen emphasis and specificinstruction in: Mime, Improvisational Duet Acting, Radio/Television Speaking, Original Oratory, ExtemporaneousSpeaking, After-Dinner Speaking, and Reader’s Theater. Students may earn points toward gaining membershipor increase standing in the National Forensics League. Students will be required to travel to AAA-sanctionedqualifying tournaments. Forensics II students will participate in at least 2 tournaments and no more than 8 tourna-Course Title: Forensics III 519065 & 519066Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Forensics IIForensics III is a full year performance-based class that develops advanced acting and speaking skills forcompetition. Students will be given advanced performance theories and techniques in area of chosen emphasis andspecific instruction in: group event performance, directing IE’s, script search and cutting, rehearsal technique,college auditions and preparing forensics portfolio. Students may earn points toward gaining membership orincrease national standing in the National Forensics League. Students will be required to travel to AAA-sanctionedqualifying tournaments. Forensics III students will participate in at least 3 tournaments and no more than 8tournaments.Course Title: Forensics IVGrade Level: 12Prerequisites: Forensics III99999F & 99999GForensics IV is a full year performance-based class that develops advanced acting and speaking skills forcompetition. Students will be given advanced performance theories and techniques in area of chosen emphasis andspecific instruction in: directing group performances, directing IE’s, script search and cutting, directing rehearsals,creating rehearsal schedules, completing college auditions and/or audition portfolios, and completing a forensicsportfolio. Students may earn points toward gaining membership or increase national standing in the NationalForensics League. Students will be required to travel to AAA-sanctioned qualifying tournaments including the StateTournament. Forensics IV students will participate in at least 4 tournaments and no more than 9 tournaments.26

Course Title: Debate I 519067 & 519068Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: noneIn this full year course, students will develop skills in all forms of legislative debate. Included are the following:Mock Trial, Student Congress, policy and Lincoln-Douglas debate. Students will study judging styles/paradigms,ethical standards, research skills, case building, defense/prosecution strategy, and analysis of case evidence.Students are required to participate in all competitive forms of legislative debate.Course Title: Debate IIGrade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Debate I519069 & 51906AIn this full year course, students will develop skills in all forms of legislative debate. Included are the following:Mock Trial, Student Congress, policy and Lincoln-Douglas debate. Students will study judging styles/paradigms,ethical standards, research skills, case building, defense/prosecution strategy, and analysis of case evidence.Students are required to participate in all competitive forms of legislative debate.Course Title: Debate IIIGrade Level: 12Prerequisites: Debate II51906B & 51906CIn this full year course, students will develop skills in all forms of legislative debate. Included are the following:Mock Trial, Student Congress, policy and Lincoln-Douglas debate. Students will study judging styles/paradigms,ethical standards, research skills, case building, defense/prosecution strategy, and analysis of case evidence.Students are required to participate in all competitive forms of legislative debate.Course Title: Oral Communication 414000Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneOral communication is a one-semester introductory course which is required for high school graduation. It coversspoken communication basics with an emphasis on preparing and presenting public speeches. Students gaininformation by using textbooks, lecture, notes and handouts; they practice/demonstrate this by using worksheets,activities, and written and oral presentations. Major projects include three speeches that are researched, outlined,practiced, and presented to classmates. There are no prerequisites for the course.Course Title: Journalism 415001 & 415002Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIn this full year course, students will begin introductory studies in media ethics, American media history, reporting,newspaper-oriented writing, advertisements, and basic newspaper design. Students will work on a variety of tasks,including but not limited to taking notes, interviewing strangers, discussing issues, conducting research, writingstories on deadline, and designing pages and ads. During the year, students will write extensively and produce astudent newspaper.27

Course Title: Yearbook I - (Beginning Yearbook) 515021 & 515022Grade Level: 9,10Prerequisites: Recommendation from English teachers, a GPA of 3.25 or above, musthave a positive attitude, and willingness to work as a teamStudents will learn the basics of how to put together a yearbook. Students learn how to draw layouts, take and croppictures, write captions, headlines, and body text. The majority of the class will be devoted to students learning andpracticing these techniques in order to use them in the higher yearbook courses. Students will also learn how to usethe Jostens online yearbook website. Because this is beginning yearbook, students will mainly learn the basics ofwhat is involved in creating a yearbook. This includes writing and developing yearbook and news stories.Course Title: Yearbook II 515023 & 515024Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Yearbook IA full year course, Yearbook II is an intermediate study of yearbook productions and publication. These studentswill participate in the publication process from the selling of the ads to the final product distribution. They willalso learn about different software used in yearbook production through hands-on-learning using the Jostens’online yearbook website. There is a Jostens workshop in the fall and the Arkansas State Press Associationcompetition in the spring.Course Title: Yearbook III 515025 & 515026Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Yearbook IIA full year course, Yearbook III is an advanced study of yearbook production and publication. Yearbook editors,section editors, and staff members will be immersed in the publication process. This will include drawing layouts,taking and cropping pictures, writing captions, headlines, and body text as well as editing all copy. In addition,students will learn how to use different graphic software, using Apple iMac computers, different scanners, anddigital cameras. Students will also sell at least $700 in advertisements in the fall and will be responsible for thebook’s distribution in the spring. There is a Jostens workshop in the fall and the Arkansas State Press Associationcompetition in the spring.Course Title: Yearbook IV 515027 & 515028Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: Yearbook IIIA full year course, Yearbook IV is the leadership staff and they are responsible for the yearbook’s publication.Editors are immersed in the overall publication process. Working on the book includes creating the layout designs,approving the captions and other copy written for the book, selecting the pictures to be used, developing the themeconcept, overseeing the software used, and keeping other staff members on task. It is the taking of a theme ideaand carrying it throughout the entire yearbook with design, copy, pictures, and graphics. These students areresponsible for the advertisement, financing, and budgeting of the book. Yearbook IV students are responsible forthe book’s final distribution. A portfolio is also required with various examples of their work. There is a Jostensworkshop in the fall and the Arkansas State Press Association competition in the spring.28

Course DescriptionsGrades 9-12Fine ArtsArt IArt IIArt IIIAP Art Studio*Art HistoryAP Art HistoryBand IBand IIBand IIIBand IVA Cappella ChoirConcert ChoirAP Music TheoryIB Music SLWomen’s Chorus (9th Grade)*Music HistoryArtMusic*3-D Art*Ceramics ICeramics IICeramics IIISculpture IComputer Graphics IJazz Band IIJazz Band IIIJazz Band IVOrchestra I, IIChamber ChoirHarmonyMen’s Chorus (9th Grade)Adv Men’s Chorus (9th Grade)Adv Women’s Chorus (9th Grade)*Music Theory*Drama IDrama IIDrama IIIDrama IVTheatre Arts*Theatrical Makeup*Costume Design and TechnologyTechnical Theatre ITechnical Theatre II* One-semester courses29

Course Sequence for ArtArt I Art II Art III AP Art StudioComputerGraphics I*Ceramics ICeramics IICeramics III*3-D ArtSculpture I*Art HistoryAP Art History* One-semester courses30

Course Title: Art I 450001 & 450002Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIn Art I, a full year course, students will examine their abilities and preconceptions of art by examining the use ofart elements and principles in producing their own art. Art I students will explore elements of design, symbols,abstract design and realistic design using various media to produce their own art. Students are expected to know artvocabulary and be able to defend and explain their art process. Art I students will listen to short lectures, observedemonstrations, examine art examples, participate in various practice exercises and explore various media to expandtheir thinking and discover the intuitive process they possess for creating art. Note taking, reports and research,along with their art production will be required to fully experience and understand the art process. Students areexpected to keep all practice and experimental work in a portfolio to use for a comparison of “before and after”concepts. Approximately 8 to 12 finished art pieces and written reports will be required at the completion of thecourse. There is a $15.00 materials fee for taking this course.Course Title: Art II 450030Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Art IIn Art II, a full year course, students will study and develop drawing, painting, and printmaking skills as well asexplore a variety of art mediums and techniques. Students will also apply their prior knowledge of design in thecreation of sculpture. Students will be engaged in research, demonstrations, class critiques and individual artproduction. Upon completion of this course, students will have created approximately twelve pieces of artwork.There is a $15.00 materials fee for taking this course.Course Title: Art III 450040Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Art IIIn Art III, a full year course, students will extensively communicate their feelings through a variety of media,processes, techniques and tools. Students will be expected to select a theme and carry it throughout half of therequired pieces. Students will be engaged in research, demonstrations, class critiques and individual art production.Upon completion of this course, students will have created a portfolio containing twelve art pieces. There is a$15.00 materials fee for taking this course.Course Title: AP Art Studio 559041 & 559042Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: B or above in Art IIIAP Art Studio is a full year, college level course designed for the students who are seriously interested in thepractical experience of art. Students build and submit portfolios for evaluation at the end of the school year. Thiscourse will address a sense of quality in the student’s work, the student’s concentration on a particular visual interestor problem, and the student’s need for breadth of experience in the formal, technical, and expressive means of theartist. Students must complete requirements for submitting the AP portfolio. There is a $15.00 materials fee fortaking this course.31

Course Title: 3-D Art 559801Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIn 3-D Art, a semester course, students will experiment with various art techniques and mediums to create bothfunctional and aesthetic three-dimensional art pieces. Students will begin learning to communicate their ownfeelings within their creations. Students will be engaged in research, demonstrations, class critiques and individualart production. Upon completion of this course, students will have created approximately eight to ten pieces of art.There is a $10.00 materials fee for taking this course.Course Title: Ceramics I 550010Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneCeramics I, a semester course, meets the state art requirement for an art credit. Students will be introduced to thebasic clay working techniques of pinch, coil, slab and modeling. Basic elements of art will be examined for surfacedecoration and structural form for both functional and nonfunctional works of art. Taking notes from lectures,writing reports on art styles and techniques, and some drawing will be required. Students will be expected to knowa large art vocabulary and be able to defend and explain their art work. Ceramic students will have a ceramic bookavailable for reference and vocabulary. They will observe demonstrations and be shown examples of various clayworking and decorative techniques before starting their own projects. The emphasis will not be on copying previousart but to explore their skills and decorative abilities to produce their own work. Note taking and reports on variousstyles and process will be required. Ceramics I students will be required to have a show of their work.Approximately eight to ten ceramic works will be produced. There is a $10.00 materials fee for taking this course.Course Title: Ceramics II 559803 & 559804Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: C in Ceramics IIn Ceramics II, a full year course, students will expand on their basic clay working techniques learned inCeramics I. The same basic techniques will be explored, but a higher level of expectation will be required in boththe size of the piece as well as the complication of the structure and design. Basic drawing for sketching ideas ofform and design, as well as reports on topics of interest, will be required. A thorough understanding of vocabulary,process and creativity will be emphasized. Ceramics II students will be expected to make drawings of their intendedwork, work out sketch patterns for applied design and do research on an approved topic of interest. Students will beshown advanced techniques relating to clay structure, textured surfaces treatments and applied designs, thenexpected to experiment in the medium to create their own art. They will be able to defend their structure and designusing appropriate art vocabulary. Students will be required to write a report of their choice on historical or technicalareas in ceramics, and put on a show of their work which should include eight to ten pieces of ware. There is a$15.00 materials fee for taking this course.Course Title: Ceramics III 559805 & 559806Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Ceramics IICeramics III is a one year program offered to students who have successfully completed Ceramics II and wouldlike to continue in ceramic design with the intent of producing works of artistic quality. The first semesterCeramic III students will continue to learn or improve throwing on the wheel, clay hand building techniques,surface decoration techniques, understand glaze modification and alterations, vocabulary and assist in loading andfiring procedures. Second semester projects will include joining wheel thrown forms, various three dimensionalsculpture techniques and projects for community service. With instructors approval students may improvise andfocus on areas of their own interest. There is a $15.00 materials fee for taking this course.32

Course Title: Sculpture I 550010Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIn Sculpture I, a full year course, 10th—12th grade students will explore the additive and subtractive sculptingmethods. They will use a plethora of materials from plaster and clay to aluminum cans and wire as well as a widerange of subject matter to create their three-dimensional forms of self-expression. Students will engage in research,elements and principles of art, class and individual critiques, public and electronic displays, demonstrations, andgroup projects. Upon completion of this course, students will have produced approximately 12 sculptures. There isa $15.00 art fee for taking this course.Course Title: Art History 450060Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneArt History is a semester course that emphasizes understanding works of art within their historical context byexamining issues such as politics, religion, patronage, gender, function, and ethnicity. The course also explores thevisual analysis of works of art. The primary aim of this course is to encourage the understanding of art as a visuallanguage and to foster in students the ability to translate this understanding into verbal expression, both orally andwritten.Course Title: AP Art History 559030Grade Level: 11, 12Prerequisites: NoneAP Art History is a year-long college freshman-level art history survey course designed to thoroughly preparejuniors or seniors to take the College Board Advanced Placement Art History Test. The course will cover Westernart practice from prehistoric to contemporary times, as well as the art and cultures of Asia, Africa, Australia, thePacific Islands, Central and South America. Students learn to examine and critically analyze major forms of artisticexpression, including architecture, painting, and sculpture, as a reflection of a given civilization and time period.Issues such as patronage, gender and the functions and effects of a work of art will also be emphasized. This classwill give students the opportunity to use their knowledge of history, geography, politics, religion, languages,literature, and the visual arts as they learn who created what, when and most importantly why they did it. Thecurriculum is modeled after introductory college level art history survey courses and reflects the College Board A.P.Art History. Students are expected to sit for the AP Art History exam.Course Title: Computer Graphics I 559800Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: C in Art IComputer Graphics I is a full year course that begins by exploring the nature of 2-dimensinoal design andcomposition with emphasis on the elements and principles of art. The program will also explore the fundamentals ofadvertising layout, typography, photo editing, illustration and basic animation. In this class students will learn andutilize the computer along with various software programs as a design tool. Students will analyze and critiqueartworks, discuss aesthetic issues, and understand the evolution of letter forms and origins of graphic design in thehistory of art.33

Course Sequence for Music9th Grade 10th Grade 11th Grade 12th GradeBand I Band II Band III Band IVMen’s Chorus Concert Choir Concert Choir Concert ChoirWomen’s Chorus A Cappella Choir A Cappella ChoirAdvanced Women’sChorusJazz Band II Jazz Band III Jazz Band IVAdv Men’s Chorus Harmony Harmony HarmonyChamber ChoirAP Music TheoryChamber ChoirMusic History Music History Music HistoryMusic Theory Music Theory Music TheoryAP Music TheoryOrchestra I Orchestra II Orchestra II Orchestra IIIB Music SL34

Course Title: Band I, II, III, IVGrade Level: 9 - 451001 10 - 45104011 - 451050 12 - 451060Prerequisites: Enrollment in band the previous year, instructor permission.Band students will continue to develop more advanced playing skill through the performance of literature asprescribed by the Arkansas School Band and Orchestra Association, playing and written tests involving theidentification of key signatures, scales, music terms, and interpretation of various musical styles. The band performsat football games, basketball games, pep rallies, parades, concerts, and various competitions. Band requires timeoutside school hours. Pre-school rehearsals begin prior to school starting in August. Students must be willing tospend this extra time to be successful in this course.Course Title: Orchestra I 552010, Orchestra II 99999MGrade Level: 9-12Prerequisites: Must play a stringed instrumentOrchestra I & II, each a full year course, are for students who play a stringed instrument Students are exposed tovarious types of music and are given opportunities to perform in concerts. Additionally, students may audition forregional and all-state competitions.Course Title: Jazz Band I 551010, Jazz Band II 551020, Jazz Band III 551030Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Audition; must be enrolled in Band II, III, or IVThe jazz ensemble provides the serious musician with an opportunity to grow through the study of a great Americanart form. Players of saxophones, trumpets, trombones, piano, bass, guitar and drums will perform music of the bigband era as well as more modern styles. Swing, Bop, Latin, Rock and other styles will be covered, as well as basicconcepts of jazz improvisation. Performances include regularly scheduled concerts as well as school events.Course Title: Men’s Chorus 45200MGrade Level: 9Prerequisites: Open EnrollmentIn Men’s Chorus, a full year course, students will be actively involved in the preparation and performance ofchoral music. Students will study expressive singing with technical accuracy and a varied repertoire of music. Thelevel of music the students perform will range from 1-3 (Scale: 1-5; five being the highest.) Students will learnseveral sight reading techniques in this course. Students will participate in group as well as individual singing.Each student will be partly responsible for the required performance attire. The group will participate in severalconcerts and contests during the school year. Extra rehearsals may be required.Course Title: Advanced Men’s ChorusGrade Level: 9Prerequisites: Audition45200AIn Advanced Men’s Chorus, a full year course, students will be actively involved in the preparation andperformance of choral music. Students will study expressive singing with technical accuracy and a variedrepertoire of music. The level of music the students perform will range from 1-5 (Scale: 1-5; five being thehighest.) Students will participate in group as well as individual singing. Students will learn to use solfege, a sight-reading technique. The group will participate in several concerts and contests during the school year. Extrarehearsals may be required. Each student will be partly responsible for the required performance attire. Eachstudent is strongly encouraged to try out for the All Region Choir. Students wishing to perform in this group arerequired to try out in the spring for the following year.35

Course Title: Women’s ChorusGrade Level: 9Prerequisites: Open Enrollment45200WWomen’s Chorus is a full year course for women only. Students will learn basic music terminology and sightsinging.Students will perform a varied array of musical styles, genres, and difficulty levels up to a level 2.Students are required to purchase a t-shirt. Students will participate as a group as well as an individual singer. Thegroup will perform in several concerts and contests throughout the school year.Course Title: Advanced Women’s Chorus 45200CGrade Level: 9Prerequisites: AuditionAdvanced Women’s Chorus is a full year course for women only. Students will learn music terminology and sight-singing. Students will perform a varied array of musical styles, genres, and difficulty levels up to a level 3.Students are required to purchase a dress. Students will participate as a group as well as an individual singer. Thegroup will perform in several concerts and contests throughout the school year.Course Title: A Cappella Choir 452001 & 452002Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: AuditionIn A Cappella choir, a full year course, students will study expressive singing with technical accuracy, a variedrepertoire of music, difficulty level 4-5 (on a scale from 1-5). Students will participate in group as well asindividual singing. The group will participate in several concerts and contests during the school year. Extrarehearsals are required.Course Title: Chamber Choir 452003 & 452004Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: AuditionIn Chamber Choir, a full year course, students will study expressive singing with technical accuracy, a variedrepertoire of music, difficulty level 5 (on a scale from 1-5). Students will participate in group as well as individualsinging. The group will participate in several concerts and contests during the school year. Extra rehearsals arerequired. A uniform is required and is purchased at the beginning of the year.Course Title: Concert Choir 452005 & 452006Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: AuditionIn Concert Choir, a full year course, students will study expressive singing with technical accuracy, a variedrepertoire of music, difficulty level 3 (on a scale from 1-5). Students will participate in group as well as individualsinging. The group will participate in several concerts and contests during the school year. Extra rehearsals arerequired. A uniform is required and is purchased at the beginning of the year.36

Course Title: Harmony 452007 & 452008Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Open EnrollmentIn Harmony Chorus, a full year course, women will study expressive singing with technical accuracy and a variedrepertoire of music. Students will participate in group as well as individual singing. The group will participate inconcerts and contests during the school year. Extra rehearsals are required. A uniform is required and is purchasedat the beginning of the year.Course Title: Music History 559805Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneMusic History, a fall semester course, is an in-depth walk through the past, present, and future of music, giving thestudents a better background of music genre and style.Course Title: Music Theory 459010Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneMusic Theory, a spring semester course, students will be introduced to musicianship, theory, musical materials, andprocedures. The student will develop his/her aural, sight singing, written, compositional, and analytical skillsthrough listening exercises, performances, and written, creative, and analytical exercises.Course Title: AP Music Theory 559011 & 559012Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Music reading skills and 2 years musical experienceIn AP Music Theory, a full year course, students will be taken through a rigorous curriculum including advancedmusicianship, further development of theoretical skills, musical materials, and procedures. The students willdevelop high levels of aural, sight singing, dictation, and analytical skills through listening exercises, performances,written, creative, and analytical exercises. Students are expected to take the AP Music Theory exam in May.Course Title: IB Music SL 559810Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorIB Music SL is a one-year course designed to broaden the perception of a student’s views on music. Through variousworld music in solo and ensemble literature, the students will learn to recognize, speculate, analyze, identify,discriminate, and hypothesize in relation to music. Techniques and application of composition will be taught tohelp further creatively develop their knowledge, abilities, and understanding of music and themselves.In addition to the above, the students will demonstrate the following:• Use of appropriate musical language and terminology to describe and reflect their critical understanding ofmusic through their study of music theory and history• Development of perceptual skills in response to music through their ability to evaluate music performances ofvarious groups/soloists both verbally and written• Knowledge and understanding of music in relation to time and space through composition and evaluation• Development of their performance skills through solo music making (SLS) or ensemble participation (SLG)including stage etiquette, instrumental technique, diction, phrasing, and articulation or development of theircompositional skills through exploration and investigation of musical elements (SLC).37

Course Sequence for Theatre ArtsTechnicalTheatre I*Drama I*TheatricalMakeupTechnicalTheatre IIDrama II*CostumeDesign andTechnologyDrama IIIDrama IV*One-semester courses38

Course Sequence for Theatre ArtsCourse Title: Drama I 416000Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIn this one-semester course, students will be introduced to theatre by learning about acting, design elements,directing, producing, production personnel, and theatre history. Student performance is an expectation forsuccessful completion of the course. This course is the prerequisite for Drama II-IV, Tech Theatre, Costume Designand Technology, and Theatrical Makeup.Course Title: Drama II 559803 & 559804Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Drama IA full year course, Drama II will allow students to continue their study of the art of theater. Various types of actingskills will be utilized including character development, stage movement, and vocal control suitable for a largeperformance venue. In addition to furthering one’s acting skill, Drama II students will work to become youngtheater scholars. Through theater research and script dissection, students will benefit through learning in-depththeater history, drama themes, acting methods and genres of theater. Students will be required to participate in,attend, and support BHS Drama productions in addition to attending area community and school plays.Course Title: Drama III 559805 & 559806Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Drama II AND Drama director approvalA full year course, Drama III is for students who will further their study of theater in a more in-depth mannerthrough script study and performance. As advanced students of theater, the Drama III students will not only placeinto practice the acting skills they have previously learned but they will learn the skills needed to develop anaesthetic sense of direction. As the Drama III students begin to become better actors, they will learn to approach thedevelopment of their characters from multiple methods and through a director’s vision. They will learn to integratemultiple art forms (from performance art to dance to film) into production. They will continue to study the dramaticmasters and their works as they reflect upon the social impacts of theater in society and the expression of dramaticart as it mirrors reality. Students will be required to participate in all of the performances produced by the BHSDrama Dept. In addition to this involvement, students will attend and learn to evaluate productions by other schoolsand the community.Course Title: Drama IV 559807 & 559808Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Drama III AND Drama director approvalA full year course, this upper level elective is for the advanced student of theater who is serious about growing intheir craft and being an integral part of the BHS Drama Department. The Drama IV students will develop anddisplay his/her abilities by leading in multiple area of theater production. As the Drama IV students continue theirquests to becoming better actors, directors, and writers, they will learn through the analysis and critique of theirpeers. Students will explore the realm of playwriting and will script a one act play in their second semester of study.Additionally, the students will participate in culminating activates that wrap up their work from Drama I-III, whichwill include portfolio preparation and development, collecting and enhancing the acting repertoire, and producing aone act play from selection to performance. Students will assume leadership roles in many functions of thedepartment and will be required to participate in, attend, and support not only BHS Drama productions but alsoproductions by other schools and the community.39

Course Title: Theatrical Makeup 55980DGrade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Drama IIn this one-semester course, students will learn beginning through advanced techniques of stage makeup design andapplication, including, but not limited to, old-age character, facial hair, 3-D effects and bald caps. Students willapply makeup to themselves and classmates. Students will act as makeup crew for the BHS Drama productionsduring the semester of enrollment. This course is recommended for students interested in acting and/or studentsinterested in aspects of technical theatre. Each student will purchase a personal makeup kit, currently priced at $50.Course Title: Costume Design and TechnologyGrade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Drama I55980EThis one-semester course engages the student in the study and development of technical theatre skills related tostage costume design and technology. Students will explore the principles and elements of costume design, figuredrawing and costume rendering, characterization through costume choices, costume history and basic costume constructionskills. Students will fulfill requirements of script and character analysis, design development, and coordinatewith other student designers. Costume Design and Technology students will serve as the wardrobe crew for atleast one BHS Drama production during the course year.Course Title: Technical Theatre I 559807 & 559808Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Drama IA full year course, Technical Theatre I will provide students with a basic understanding of scenic construction,theatre design, lighting design, sound design, and technical production management. This is a performing arts classwhere all students are required to work in some capacity on drama production presented at the high school.Teamwork and problem solving will be a major part of the course curriculum.Course Title: Technical Theatre II 559809Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Technical Theatre IA full year course, Technical Theatre II will provide students with an advanced understanding of the “elements ofdesign.” Projects will allow the student the opportunity to research and apply design techniques. The student willcritically examine the elements of technical theatre and be able to justify artistic choices.40

*Algebra I****Making Sense of Algebra**GeometryPre-AP Geometry****Applying GeometryAlgebra IIPre-AP Algebra IIPre-AP Pre-Calculus/TrigonometryAP Calculus ABAP Calculus BCAP StatisticsIB Mathematics Studies SLIB Mathematics SL***College Algebra Honors***Finite Math Honors***Plane TrigonometryAlgebraic ConnectionsAlgebra IIICourse DescriptionsGrades 9-12Mathematics*Students who complete algebra over one year will receive 1 math credit which also meets the 1–unit graduation requirement in algebra. Students who complete algebra over two-years will receive2 math credits which satisfies the 1-unit graduation requirement in algebra.** Students who complete geometry over one year will receive 1 math credit which also meetsthe 1-unit graduation requirement in geometry. Students who complete geometry over two yearswill receive 2 math credits which satisfies the 1-unit graduation requirement in geometry.*** These are one-semester concurrent credit courses through NWACC.****These are no-credit, one-semester remediation courses.41

Course Sequence for MathematicsGeneral Program*Advanced ProgramAlgebra I (9th Grade)Pre-AP Geometry(9th Grade)Geometry (10th Grade)Pre-AP Algebra II(10th Grade)AlgebraicConnections(11th Grade)Algebra II(11th Grade)Pre-AP Pre-calculus/Trigonometry(11th Grade)Algebra II(12th grade)Completion of theabove sequencedoes not fulfillSmart CoreRequirements.Algebra IIIORPre-Calculus/TrigORAP StatisticsORCollege Algebra/PlaneTrigonometryORIB Math(12th Grade)AP Calculus ABORAP StatisticsORCollege Algebra/Finite MathORCollege Algebra/PlaneTrigonometryORIB Math(12th Grade)Completion of the abovesequence fulfills Smart Corerequirements.Completion of the above sequencefulfills Smart Core requirements.Students may take two different math courses in one school year. Check with your SLC counselor.* Must have completed Algebra I in grade 8.42

Course Title: Algebra I 430001 & 430002Grade Level: 9Prerequisites: Pre-AlgebraIn Algebra I, a full year course, students will study the use of real numbers in problem solving, use critical-thinkingskills, make connections to algebra from previously learned math topics, and connect algebra to the real world.Students will participate in lectures, taking notes, use of current graphing calculator technology, and exercises tobuild basic and critical-thinking skills. The End-of-Course Exam will require the students to explain, justify, verify,interpret, draw, and label their conclusions algebraically. Students will participate in a mastery learning program;therefore, students will be expected to master competencies within a module before progressing to the next module.Students must pass the EOC Algebra I exam in order to get credit for the course.Course Title: Making Sense of Algebra 99999TGrade Level 10,11,12Prerequisites: Scoring below proficient on EOC AlgebraMaking Sense of Algebra, a semester course, assists students in bridging the gap from concrete understanding ofarithmetic to the functions –based algebra called for in the Algebra EOC exam. Using multiple representations,appropriate technology, and concrete models, this class will broaden the students’ knowledge of algebra. The classwill focus on an in-depth examination of foundations of functions and linear functions. Additionally, quadratic andexponential functions are explored. Students scoring below proficient on the EOC Algebra will not receive creditfor Algebra I until completing this no credit course.Course Title: Geometry 431001 & 431002Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Algebra IIn Geometry, a full year course, students will study the elements of geometry: inductive and deductive reasoning,angle relationships, parallel lines and planes, congruent triangles, similar polygons, circles, informal proofs, areas,and volumes. Students will be expected to use algebraic properties throughout the course. Students will participatein a mastery learning program; therefore, students will be expected to master competencies within a module beforeprogressing to the next module. Geometry taught over one year to ninth grade students carries “Pre-AP”distinction.Course Title: Applying Geometry 99999UGrade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Scoring below Proficient on EOC GeometryApplying Geometry, a semester course, assists students in applying geometry concepts to real world questions.The class will focus on geometry skills that are needed to solve these problems. Students will learn to use higherorder thinking skills and how to apply and articulate them. Focus will be on the 5 strands of the Geometry EOCexam. Students scoring below Proficient on the EOC Geometry exam will not receive credit for geometry untilcompleting this course.Course Title: Algebra II 432001 & 432002Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Algebra IIn Algebra II, a full year course, students will study linear systems, equations, inequalities, quadratic equationsand functions, graphing transformations, matrices, complex numbers, operations of rational expressions and conicsections and an overview of rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Students will be expected to haveattained proficiency from Algebra I in the use of fundamental operations and solving simple equations. Studentswill participate in the use of technology.43

Course Title: Pre-AP Algebra II 432005 & 432006Grade Level: 10Prerequisites: Algebra IIn Pre-AP Algebra II, a full year course, students will study linear systems, equations, inequalities, quadraticequations and functions, graphing transformations, matrices, complex numbers, operations of rational expressions,conic sections, rational, exponential, and logarithmic functions. Students will be expected to have attainedproficiency from Algebra I in the use of fundamental operations, solving simple equations. Students will participatein the use of technology. This course is fast-paced and offers in-depth problem solving situations.Course Title: Pre-AP Pre-Calculus/Trigonometry 433005 & 433006Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Algebra II and GeometryIn Pre-AP Pre-Calculus/Trigonometry, a full year course, students will study an introduction to trigonometry,graphing trigonometric functions, inverses and applications of trigonometric functions, trigonometric identities,circular motion, polar coordinates, polynomial and rational functions and inequalities, exponential and logarithmicfunctions, and sequences. Students will use a graphing calculator. This course is fast-paced and offers in-depthproblem solving situations.Course Title: AP Calculus AB 534041 & 534042Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: C in Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus HonorsIn AP Calculus AB, a full year course, students will study differential and integral calculus including functions,limits, derivatives, extrema, L`Hopital’s Rule, particle motion, critical points, integrals, areas, solids of revolution,related rates, mean value theorem, and approximation methods. Students will participate in the use of technology.It is highly recommended that students be enrolled in or have passed physics. Students enrolled in this course musttake the AP exam in May.Course Title: AP Calculus BC 534051 & 534052Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: AP Calculus ABThis full-year course is a college level course covering derivatives, integrals, limits, approximation , applicationsand modeling, and sequences and series. Students interested in this course should have a strong math backgroundand knowledge of algebra, geometry, trigonometry, analytic geometry and elementary functions. Students enrolledin this course must take the AP exam in May.Course Title: AP Statistics 539031 & 539032Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Minimum of C in Algebra IIIn this full-year course, students will study a non-calculus based introduction to statistics involving such topics asexploring data, observing patterns and departures from patterns, planning a study, deciding what data to measure andhow to measure it, probability and simulation, and statistical inference. Students will participate in the use ofgraphing calculators. Students will be expected to complete several projects during the year. Students enrolled inthis course must take the AP exam in May.44

Course Title: IB Mathematics Studies SL 539061Grade Level: 11, 12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorMathematical Studies SL, a two-year study, will include topics similar to a statistics class, including measures ofdispersion, chi-squared tests, t-tests, distribution, and an introduction to differential calculus. The centerpiece ofthis class is an extensive project. Each student chooses a topic of interest to him/her, and researches the project,performing any possible mathematical tests, drawing conclusions, and testing these conclusions. The projects aresubmitted during the second year of the course and will be graded for the students’ internal assessment. The externalassessments (papers 1 and 2) will be taken at the end of the second year of the course (senior year). This is anintense, fast-paced class that covers a wide range of mathematical topics. Students will also be studying the multiculturalaspects of mathematics, discovering the differences between other countries’ approaches to mathematics.This course also includes 15 additional hours taken concurrently with the course during seminar and after school.Course Title: IB Mathematics SL 539070Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorIn the first year of Mathematics SL, a two-year course, students will study topics similar to Trigonometry/Pre-Calculus including functions, conics, trigonometry, polar coordinates, and statistics. The second year of MathematicsSL will include topics similar to a calculus class, including limits derivatives, integration, and transcendentalfunctions. Throughout the course, students will complete several extended problems, two of which will begraded for the students’ internal assessments. These problems will be submitted during the second year of thecourse and will be chosen by the student to represent his/her best work. The external assessments (papers 1 and 2)will be taken at the end of the second year of the course (senior year). This is an intense, fast-paced class that coversa wide range of mathematical topics. Students will also be studying the multicultural aspects of mathematics,discovering the differences between other countries’ approaches to mathematics.Course Title: College Algebra (NWACC) 539907Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: must meet concurrent credit requirements:3.0 GPA, at least 21 on Math ACT, SAT score of 470 or Compass test score of 82 takenprior to May 15, college tuition fee, textbook feeCollege Algebra , a semester course, presents an overview of the fundamental concepts of algebra such as linear andquadratic equations and inequalities, the Cartesian plane and graphing, functions and graphs, polynomial andrational functions, exponential and logarithmic functions, systems of equations, and matrices. The use of technologythrough a graphing calculator is required. Students receive honors credit for this course. This course may count asone semester of the fourth math credit. When it does, the course must appear on the student’s BHS transcript andwill count towards GPA. College Algebra is considered an honors course.Course Title: Plane Trigonometry (NWACC)Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: Must meet concurrent credit requirement: College Algebra with a C or betteror appropriate placement: collegePlane Trigonometry, a semester course, is a survey of basic trigonometric concepts. Topics include trigonometricfunctions; graphs of trigonometric functions; trigonometric identities and equations; inverse trigonometric functions;the laws of sines and cosines; area; vectors; applications of trigonometry; complex numbers; and polar coordinates,equations, and graphs. This course may count as one semester of the fourth math credit. When it does, the coursemust appear on the student’s BHS transcript and will count towards GPA.Plane Trigonometry is considered anhonors course.45

Course Title: Finite Math (NWACC) 539908Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: College Algebra with a C or better or appropriate placement:3.0 GPA, at least 21 on Math ACT, SAT score of 470 or Compass test score of 82 takenprior to May 15, college tuition fee, textbook feeFinite math is a semester-long, survey and applications course in mathematics designed for business, life science andsocial science students. Topics include a review of the graphing calculator, linear models, systems of linearequations, matrices, linear programming, the simplex method, set theory, probability, counting principles, statistics,and finance mathematics. A graphing calculator is required (preferably a TI-83+). Students receive honors creditfor this course. This course may count as one semester of the fourth math credit. When it does, the course mustappear on the student’s BHS transcript and will count towards GPA. Finite Math is considered an honors course.Course Title: Algebraic Connections 439031 & 439032Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Algebra I and GeometryIn Algebraic Connections, a full year course, students will study probability, functions and graphs, statistics, andgraph theory. Students will be introduced to new and different components of mathematics from an algebraic pointof view through writing opportunities, oral presentations, cooperative group activities, and investigative approachesto learning. Students will be expected to complete a major project in each unit. This course does not fulfill the mathrequirements under Smart Core.Course Title: Algebra III 439070Class Level: 12Prerequisites: Algebra IIThis course is designed as a fourth-year mathematics course for high school seniors. The focus is on mathematicstopics that are vital for a student’s success in college mathematics or in the workplace after high school graduation.Numerical algebraic, geometric, probability, and statistical concepts will be brought together using a functionalapproach. This will be accomplished through the use of technology-based lab projects and other activities, whichincorporate problem solving, communication, abstraction, and technology. Specific topics include linear,quadratic, power, polynomial, rational, exponential, logarithmic, and trigonometric functions, systems of equationsand inequalities, and matrices. Each topic will be explored graphically, algebraically, and numerically with the useof graphing techniques, algebraic manipulation, modeling numeric date, collecting and analyzing data, and byrelating to other areas of mathematics. This course counts as the fourth year of mathematics under Smart Core.46

Course DescriptionsGrades 9-12Physical Education/ Health DepartmentOne-half credit of physical education is required for graduation. Students may count up to 1 fullyear of physical education credit toward graduation requirements.AerobicsHealthLifetime Fitness & ConditioningPhysical EducationOutdoor EducationTeam Sports - BaseballTeam Sports - Basketball - BoysTeam Sports - Basketball - GirlsTeam Sports - Cross CountryTeam Sports - FootballTeam Sports - Softball - Fast PitchTeam Sports - Track - BoysTeam Sports - Track - GirlsCheerleadingDanceGolfSoccerSwim/DiveTennisVolleyball9th grade Athletics, Cheer, Dance47

Course Title: Aerobics 585016Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneAerobics is a one semester course that combines step aerobics and resistance training to increase fitness levels ofparticipants. Approximately 45 minutes a week will be devoted to step aerobics, 20 minutes to resistance training,and 20 minutes to calisthenics. Students are required to dress out and participate in class activities. This course isapproved by the Arkansas Department of Education for PE credit.Course Title: Health 480000Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneDuring this one semester course, students will be involved in studying the various aspects of health. Topics willinclude nutrition, physical fitness, mental health, tobacco and alcohol education, and human sexuality. Lessons willbe taught using lecture methods, individual and group work, guest speakers, and demonstrations. Students will alsoparticipate in American Heart Association CPR certification. This one-semester course is a graduationrequirement.Course Title: Lifetime Fitness & Conditioning 585017Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneThis course is designed to provide students with the knowledge to safely use a weight room, to develop the skills toproperly perform specific exercises, to assess, plan and monitor a personalized fitness program. This course isapproved for PE credit.Course Title: Outdoor EducationGrade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: NoneThis double blocked, one-semester class is a practical course for learning and practicing skills for outdoor activitiesand will connect outdoor activities to the science concepts and processes appropriate to the study of theenvironment of Northwest Arkansas. Students will have the opportunity to venture out of the traditional classroomthrough planned field trips and to manipulate natural events hands-on while incorporating sport and sciencetogether. Students will receive 1/2 elective credit of Environmental Science and 1/2 local elective credit ofphysical education upon successful completion of the class.Course Title: Physical Education 485001 &485002Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NonePhysical education, a full year course, is designed to promote physical fitness for life. Students will study unitsthrough the year built around health-related fitness, health and wellness, and lifetime activities. All students willparticipate in health-related fitness assessments and will design a personal fitness plan. This course will fulfillthe .5 semester of PE credit required for graduation. Students may count no more than 1.0 credit in PE toward stategraduation requirements.48

Course Title: Team Sports - Baseball 585012Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Selected during winter try-outs. Physical examination prior to try-outs.Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Baseball is a one semester course. Players are selected through a try-out process in the winter prior to secondsemester. Only players selected for the team will be allowed in this class held during the school day for the springsemester. Team members participate in games after the regular school day. This course is approved by theArkansas Department of Education for PE credit.Course Title: Team Sports - Basketball - Boys 585010Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Practice and try-outs; team is selected by coach. Physical examination priorVarsity Boys Basketball is a full year course that is part of a student’s class schedule. Players are chosen for thevarsity team or junior varsity team by the coaches. Team members participate in practice, conditioning, andcompetitive games. Team members must be available to participate outside regular school hours. This course isapproved by the Arkansas Department of Education for PE credit.Course Title: Team Sports - Basketball - Girls 585010Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Practice and try-outs; team is selected by coach. Physical examination priorto try-outs. Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Varsity Girls Basketball is a full year course that is part of a student’s class schedule. Players are chosen for thevarsity team or junior varsity team by the coaches. Team members participate in practice, conditioning, andcompetitive games. Team members must be available to participate outside regular school hours. This course isapproved by the Arkansas Department of Education for PE credit.Course Title: Team Sports - Cross Country 585015Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Physical examination prior to try-outs. Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Cross Country is a one semester fall sport. Practice will start in the summer before school starts. Team membersparticipate in practice and meet this class during the school day for the fall semester. This course is approved by theArkansas Department of Education for PE credit.Course Title: Team Sports - Football 585011Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Coach’s approval. Physical examination prior to try-outs. Meet AAAeligibility requirements.Varsity Football is a full year course that is part of a student’s class schedule. Players are chosen for the varsityteam or junior varsity team by the coaches. Team members participate in practice, do physical conditioning, andcompete in games during the fall semester. Off-season conditioning occurs during the spring semester. Teammembers must be available to participate outside regular school hours. Seniors should not be scheduled into secondsemester football. After the competitive season is concluded, players may opt to engage in other varsity sports. Thiscourse is approved by the Arkansas Department of Education for PE credit.Course Title: Team Sports - Softball - Fast Pitch 585013Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Selected during winter try-outs. Physical examination prior to try-outs.Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Fast-pitch softball is a one semester spring sport. Players are selected by the coach through a try-out process. Onlyplayers selected for the team will take this class during the school day for the Spring semester. This course isapproved by the Arkansas Department of Education for PE credit.49

Course Title: Team Sports - Track-Boys 585014Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Selected during winter try-outs. Physical examination prior to try-outs.Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Track is a one semester spring sport. Students who are participating in any other varsity sports and wish to go intotrack may schedule track for the second semester. Students will take this class during the school day during theSpring semester. This course is approved by the Arkansas Department of Education for PE credit.Course Title: Team Sports - Track-Girls 585014Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Approval of instructor. Physical examination prior to try-outs. Meet AAAeligibility requirements.Track is a one semester spring sport. Students who are participating in any other varsity sport and wish to go intotrack may schedule track for the second semester. Students will take this class during the school day during theSpring semester. This course is approved by the Arkansas Department of Education for PE credit.Course Title: Cheerleading 585023Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Selected during spring try-outs. Physical examination prior to try-outs.Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Cheerleading is a full year course. Cheerleaders are selected through a try-out process during spring semester forthe following school year. Students must enroll in the scheduled class period and be available for summer camp andpractice during the summer. This course may fulfill the one-semester PE graduation requirement. See Mrs.Kaufman.Course Title: Dance 585024Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Physical examination prior to try-outs. Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Dance is a full year course. It is a drill and dance squad which has choreographed all routines that vary from discoand jazz to high kick and marching. Dance team members are selected through a try-out process during the springsemester for the following school year. This course may fulfill the one-semester PE graduation requirement. SeeMrs. Kaufman.Course Title: Golf 999825Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Physical examination prior to try-outs. Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Golf is a one semester fall sport. Practice will start at the beginning of school. Team members participate inpractice and meet after the regular school day. Students are responsible for transportation to practices at theKingsdale Complex in Bella Vista. This course does not fulfill the one-semester PE graduation requirement.Course Title: Soccer 999824Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Selected during winter try-outs. Physical examination prior to try-outs.Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Soccer is a one semester spring sport. Practice will start in winter. Students who make the team will take this classduring the school day during the Spring semester. This course does not fulfill the one-semester PE graduation requirement.50

Course Title: Swim/Dive 999828Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Selected during winter try-outs. Physical examination prior to try-outs.Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Varsity Swim/Dive is a winter sport. Members need to be available for practice outside the normal school day. TheBHS varsity swimming team will conduct practices before school beginning at 6:00 a.m. Swimmers are responsiblefor their own transportation to practice sessions held at the Walton Fitness Center. Divers are responsible for theirown transportation to practice sessions held at JBU and expenses for diving coach. Swimmers and divers competein local and state competitions. This course does not fulfill the one-semester PE graduation requirement.Course Title: Tennis 999823Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Selected during winter try-outs. Physical examination prior to try-outs.Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Tennis is a one semester fall sport. Practice will start the first semester. Team members participate in practice andmeet after the regular school day. Students are responsible for transportation to practices at Kingsdale Complex inBella Vista. This course does not fulfill the one-semester PE graduation requirement.Course Title: Volleyball 585020Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Practice and try-outs; team is selected by coach. Physical examination priorto try-outs. Meet AAA eligibility requirements.Volleyball is a one semester course which competes during the fall semester. This course does fulfill the onesemesterPE graduation requirement. This class meets during the normal school day during the fall semester.Course Title: 9th Grade Boy’s and Girl’s AthleticsGrade Level: 9Prerequisites: Try-outs, coaches approval, and maintain academic requirements set by theBentonville School District.In athletics, students will work on fundamental skills and compete in interscholastic competitive activities.Participants will be required to attend practices after school and games through out the year. Ninth grade athleticsare competing for a conference championship in the Northwest Arkansas Conference. The .5 semester credit of PErequired for graduation purposes may be satisfied by participating in Team Sports (Football), Team Sports(Basketball-Boys/Girls), Team Sports (Cross Country), and Team Sports (Track-Boys/Girls) at the 9th grade level.51

Physical ScienceBiologyPre-AP BiologyAP BiologyChemistryPre-AP ChemistryAP ChemistryPhysicsPre-AP PhysicsAP Physics C: MechanicsAP Physics C: ElectromagnetismAP Physics BAnatomy/Physiology Honors*Geology*Environmental Science*Zoology*BotanyAP Environmental ScienceIB Biology HLIB Physics HLIB Physics SL*These are one-semester courses.Course DescriptionsGrades 9-12Science52

Course Sequence for ScienceAdvanced ProgramPre-AP BiologyAP BiologyPre-AP ChemistryAP ChemistryAnatomy/PhysiologyHonorsIB Biology HL Physics Pre-APAP Physics C:orPhysicsMechanicsIB Physics HLorIB Physics SL AP Physics C:AP Physics BElectromagnetismGeneral ProgramAP EnvironmentalSciencePhysicalScienceBiologyAnatomy/PhysiologyHonorsChemistry*Botany*Zoology*GeologyPhysicsPre-AP Physics*EnvironmentalScience*These are one-semester courses.53

Course Title: Physical Science 423001 & 423002Grade Level: 9Prerequisites: NoneIn Integrated Physical Science, a full year course, students will study matter and energy. Topics studied includeforces, motion, simple machines, heat and electricity as well as the properties, structure and interaction of matter.Students will participate in observing, measuring, researching, experimenting, collecting data, analyzing data anddrawing conclusions. Students will carry out an independent project using the scientific method.Course Title: Biology 420001 & 420002Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIn Biology, a full year course, students will study the structures and functions of living things and examine therelationships that they have with each other and the environment. Students will do group work, perform labs, utilizetechnology, submit a research paper, and take notes from lectures. Students will be expected to perform dissectionas part of the class.Course Title: Pre-AP Biology 420003 & 420004Grade Level: 9Prerequisites: Recommend A or B in current science classIn Pre-AP Biology, a full year course, students will study ecology, cytology, genetics, microbiology, taxonomy,evolution and anatomy. Students will be asked to attend lectures, participate in group activities, do projects, labs,presentations and dissections. This class is designed for the above average student, reading assignments arefrequent, and the tests are comprehensive. 9th grade students who take this course will need to take Physics orChemistry to fulfill their physical science credit.Course Title: AP Biology 520031 & 520032Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Pre-AP Biology; Requires Chemistry as at least a co-requisite.AP Biology, a full year course, is an introductory college level biology course. The course differs significantly fromthe usual high school course with respect to the kind of textbook used, the range and depth of topics covered, thekind of laboratory work done by the students and the time and effort required of the students. The goal of theBiology AP curriculum is to provide a learning environment that enables students to develop a solid understandingof the major concepts in biology. Cells, energy transforms, genetics, evolution, populations, bacteria, protests,fungi, animal populations, and plants will be covered in this course. Students must be able to think and workindependently, be willing to do independent and group projects, and study nightly in this course. Students must takethe AP Biology exam in May.54

Course Title: Chemistry 421001 & 421002Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Algebra I and Physical ScienceIn Chemistry, a full year course, students will study matter, the placement of elements on the periodic table as afunction of their atomic number, chemical reactions, conservation of energy equations, scientific inquiry, problemsolving, and how the basic principles of chemistry relate to other areas of science. Students will engage in lecture,note taking, group work, research, writing, laboratory activities, mini labs, and use of technology. Students will beexpected to write a laboratory report after every major laboratory activity. Students will be required to do a majorproject/presentation and a scientific research paper.Course Title: Pre-AP Chemistry 421005 & 421006Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Algebra IIn Pre-AP Chemistry, a full year course, students will study the in-depth reactions of matter, placement of elementson the periodic table as a function of their atomic number, chemical reactions, conservation of energy equations,kinetic theory of matter, scientific inquiry, problem solving, and how the basic principles of chemistry relate to otherareas of science. Students will engage in lecture, note taking, group work, research, writing, laboratory activities,mini labs, and use of technology. Students will be expected to write a laboratory report after every major laboratoryactivity. Students will be required to do a major project/presentation and two scientific research papers. This courseis a preparatory class for AP Chemistry.Course Title: AP Chemistry 521031 & 521032Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Pre-AP ChemistryIn AP Chemistry, a full year course, students will study the chemical reactions of matter, energy equations, phasesof matter explained by the kinetic theory. Forces of attraction between particles, scientific inquiry, problem solving,electrochemistry, biochemistry, and use the principle of chemistry to relate to other areas of science. Students willengage in lecture, note taking, group work, research, writing, laboratory activities, mini labs, student demonstrationswith elementary and middle school students while using technology. Students will be expected to write a laboratoryreport after every major laboratory activity, prepare activities for elementary and middle school students, readscientific journal articles and write reaction papers, complete a scientific research project/presentation, and take afield trip to the University of Arkansas chemistry and biochemistry department. Students must take the APChemistry test in May.Course Title: Physics 422001 & 422002Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Algebra I or its equivalentIn Physics, a full year course, students will take a conceptual approach to studying the rules of the physical world.Students will study the theories that govern how things work including projectiles, cars, airplanes, rockets, basicelectrical circuits, sound and heat. Students will engage in lecture, note taking, group work, laboratory activities,and the use of technology. Possible projects may include the egg drop, torque mobile, mouse trap cars and bridgebuilding.Course Title: Pre-AP Physics 422005 & 422006Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Algebra I and geometry or their equivalentIn Pre-AP Physics, a full year course, students will take an in depth approach to studying the rules of the physicalworld. Students will study the theories that govern how things work including projectiles, cars, satellites, gravity,heat, sound and light. Students will engage in lecture, note taking, group work, laboratory activities, mini labs,design projects and library research. Possible design projects may include the egg drop, torque mobile, mouse trapcars and bridge building. This course is a preparatory class for AP Physics or the college bound student.55

Course Title: AP Physics C: Mechanics 522051 & 522052Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Pre-AP Physics and currently taking Pre-AP Trig/Pre-CalculusA full year course, AP Physics Mechanics is a concentrated study of basic mechanics, planetary motion, work, andenergy. The course is equivalent to first semester University Physics at most colleges and universities and isrecommended for students planning on majoring in the physical sciences, engineering, or computer sciences.Students will learn to use electronic data collection systems while doing their laboratory work. They should plan onbuilding and analyzing the flight of simple rockets. There are many hands-on activities and projects related to theconcepts studied. Mathematically, the students will use the basic trigonometric functions and basic algebra skills.The course instruction includes an introduction to the basics of calculus. Students completing the course must takethe Physics AP-C mechanics exam in May.Course Title: AP Physics C - Electromagnetism - 522061 & 522062Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: Successful Completion of AP Physics C Mechanics AND concurrentlyenrolled in AP Calculus.A full year course, AP Physics C Electromagnetism is a study of statics, capacitors, circuits, and magnetism. Thecourse is equivalent to a second semester University Physics course at most colleges and Universities and isrecommended for students planning on majoring in the physical sciences, engineering, or computer sciences.Students will learn to use electronic data collection systems, as well, standard Digital Multi-meters and oscilloscopeswhile doing their laboratory work. There are many hands-on activities and projects related to the concepts studied.Mathematically, the students will build upon the skill learned their first year by applying the calculus that is beingstudied in their math class. Students completing the course must take the Physics AP-C (electromagnetism) test inMay.Course Title: AP Physics B 522031 & 522032Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Pre-AP Physics or AP Physics C: MechanicsAP Physics B is a rigorous second year trigonometry based course designed for students not planning to major inscience, technology, or engineering. It covers fluid mechanics and thermal physics, electricity and magnetism,waves and optics, and atomic and nuclear physics. This course is equivalent to the typical College Physics I and IIat a university. Students completing the course must take the Physics AP-B exam in May.Course Title: Anatomy/Physiology Honors 429011 & 429012Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: BiologyIn Anatomy/Physiology Honors, a one year course, students will study the human body systems and the disordersand diseases related to each system as well as how they all function and work together. Students will engage inlectures, note taking, research, writing, and use of technology and lab participation. Students will be expected todissect a cat during the second semester.56

Course Title: Geology 425010Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: BiologyIn Geology, which is only offered fall semester, students will examine the processes that have shaped our Earth overtime and learn more about the varying compositions of items found within and around the Earth. This material willbe learned in a variety of ways including labs, research, group projects, and lecture. All students will be expected todo a research project.Course Title: Environmental Science 424020Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: BiologyIn Environmental Science, a one-semester course, students will explore the relationship between humans and theirenvironment and the effect they have on each other. Students will use research, analysis, labs, group work, lecture,and notes to better understand this subject. All students will be expected to complete a field study project and keepa science journal. Students are also expected to help with the recycling program.Course Title: Zoology 420023Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Biology or its equivalentZoology, a semester course, covers different aspects of animals, students will examine the classifications of animalsand their unique systems and places in the environment. The course begins with a basic biology review and thenquickly covers the invertebrate phylum. Animal classification and identification are stressed along with propertechniques for collecting and preserving animals for study. In each phylum, animals of Arkansas are emphasized.Students will be expected to perform dissection as part of the lab portion of the course.Course Title: Botany 424011Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: BiologyBotany is a one semester course that explores the study of plants including classification, growth factors, genetics,role in the environment, effect of pollution, genetic engineering, diseases, and the role of plants in society. Plantclassification and identification are stressed along with proper techniques for collecting and preserving plants.Plants of Arkansas will be emphasized in the study of each phylum.Course Title: AP Environmental Science 523031 & 523032Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Recommend an A or B in BiologyThe goal of the full year AP Environmental Science class is to provide students with the scientific principles,concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationships of the natural world, to identify andanalyze environmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associated with theseproblems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolving and/or preventing them. Students must take the APEnvironmental Science exam in May.57

Course Title: IB Biology HL 529030Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorThis two-year course is designed to provide students with a highly detailed, comprehensive knowledge base inbiology, to incorporate international/global issues and viewpoints, and to develop students’ experimental andinvestigative skills using the IB approach and philosophy. The rigor of IB HL Biology will help prepare students forhigher learning and other relevant applications. A significant amount of class time will be devoted to scientificinvestigation through inquiry based learning and toward laboratory safety. Students will also be required to design,implement and complete an interdisciplinary IB Group IV Project. Students in IB HL Biology will be taught usingthe IB Biology curriculum. In addition, IB guidelines for external and internal assessment and Bentonville HighSchool assessment policies will be followed.Course Title: IB Physics HL 522060Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Must be taking Pre-AP Pre-Calculus/Trip and Approval by IB CoordinatorIB Physics HL is a two-year course in the foundations of physics with applications to modern life. The course willfocus on Newton’s Laws, conservation of momentum, conservation of energy, electro-magnetism, and optics. Mostclasses will include activities and experiments designed to build skills in graphical analysis and scientificexperimentation. Students will be challenged to apply their knowledge to issues of energy usage, projectile motion,transportation, alternative fuels, the exploration of space, weather, and global warming.Course Title: IB Physics SL 522065Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorIB Physics SL is a one year course designed to further the students’ understanding of the physical world whilehelping the student advance their problem-solving strategies. The course will focus on Mechanics, Energy, Heat,Waves, Electricity and Magnetism, and Modern Physics. Classes will include activities and experiments designed tobuild skills in scientific experimentation and problem-solving. Students from the Group 4 sciences will worktogether on a project of their selection. The emphasis of the project is interdisciplinary cooperation as well asscientific investigation. Students will take the IB Physics SL Exam at the end of the school year. This course alsoincludes 15 additional hours taken concurrently with the course during seminar and after school.58

Course DescriptionsGrades 9-12*CivicsSocial SciencesU.S. HistoryAP U.S. HistoryWorld HistoryAP World HistoryAP European HistoryAP Human Geography*PsychologyAP PsychologyIB Psychology SLIB Psychology HL*American National GovernmentEnhanced AP US Government and PoliticsIB History of the Americas HL*EconomicsAP Microeconomics/AP Macroeconomics* These are one-semester courses.59

Course Sequence for Social SciencesGENERALPROGRAM9th GradeCourses10th GradeCourses11th GradeCourses12th GradeCourses*Civics World History U.S. History *Government*EconomicsADVANCEDPROGRAMAP HumanGeographyAP World HistoryAP U.S. HistoryOREnhanced AP U.S.Government & PoliticsAP Microeconomics/MacroeconomicsORIB History of theAmericas HLIB History of theAmericas HLIB Psychology HLIB Psychology HLELECTIVES*Psychology*PsychologyAP PsychologyAP PsychologyAP EuropeanHistoryAP EuropeanHistoryCompletion of courses within the general program will fulfill BHS graduation requirementsand Smart Core requirements.* These are one-semester courses.60

Course Title: Civics 472002Grade Level: 9Prerequisites: NoneCivics is a one semester course designed to introduce students to the rights and responsibilities associated withUnited States citizenship. Students are introduced to the basic structure of federal, state (with emphasis onArkansas state government), and local governments. Emphasis is placed on citizen participation in our democraticsystem in order to learn about the larger goal of civic duty and responsibility in our community as well as ournation. Students enrolled in Civics will be expected to participate in the class in a number of different ways,including but not limited to, note taking, group work, writing assignments, and class projects. Students’ primaryresource for this class will be their assigned text as well as any outside readings provided by the instructor. Civicsis a requirement under Smart Core. Beginning with the class of 2012, Civics is a required 9th grade course thatmust be taken in order to complete graduation requirements.Course Title: U.S. History 470000Grade Level: 11Prerequisites: NoneThis full year U.S. History course is a survey of United States history from the period of colonization to the presentday.Students will engage in lecture, notes, research, group work, and presentations. Student progress will bemeasured through a variety of means including but not limited to homework, quizzes, tests, writing assignments, anddaily work.Course Title: AP U.S. History 570021 &570022Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: AP World History or an A in regular World HistoryAP U.S. History is a challenging course that is meant to be the equivalent of a freshman college course and can earnstudents college credit. It is a two-semester survey of American history from the age of exploration and discovery tothe present. The course is generally presented in a lecture/discussion format. Solid reading and writing skills, alongwith a willingness to devote considerable time to homework and study, are necessary to succeed. Emphasis isplaced on critical and evaluative thinking skills, essay writing, and interpretation of original documents. Majorresearch projects will be assigned once per semester. All students enrolled in this course are expected to take theAP exam.Course Title: World History 471001 & 471002Grade Level: 10Prerequisites: NoneWorld History is a full year course designed to provide students with a survey of the significant political, social,religious, and economic events that have shaped our world from ancient times to the 20th Century. Studentsenrolled in World History will be expected to participate in the class in a number of different ways, including, butnot limited to, note taking, group work, writing assignments, and class projects. Students’ primary resource for thisclass will be their assigned text as well as any outside readings provided by the instructor.61

Course Title: AP World History 571021 & 571022Grade Level: Recommended 10th gradePrerequisites: Recommend AP Human Geography or Grade of A or B in CivicsAP World History is a full year college level course designed to give students a challenging curriculum in order toprepare them to successfully complete the AP World History Exam. Depending on the score a student receives onthe national exam, and the requirements of the student’s selected institution of higher learning, college credit may beearned. In addition, this course should help prepare students to take other Advanced Placement Social Studiescourses in the future. The course will examine connections to the past in order to prepare students for the future asparticipating members of a global community. Students enrolled in this course will increase their knowledge ofhistory, geography, political processes, religion, ethics, diverse cultures and humanities, in order to help them solveproblems in academic, civic, social and employment settings. All students enrolled are expected to take the APExam.Course Title: AP European History 579171 & 579172Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: World HistoryAP European History, a full year course, is a college level course with teaching methods reflecting an awareness ofother disciplines and a diversity of techniques of presentation including visual and statistical materials. Students areexpected to demonstrate a knowledge of basic chronology and of major events and trends from approximately 1450to the present. Goals are to develop an understanding of some of the principal themes in modern European history,an ability to analyze historical evidence, and an ability to analyze and to express historical understanding in writing.All students enrolled are expected to take the AP Exam.Course Title: AP Human Geography 579081 & 579082Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Pre AP Social Studies in 8th Grade PreferredAP Human Geography is a full-year course that is designed to introduce students to the systematic study ofpatterns and processes that have shaped human understanding, use, and alteration of Earth’s surface. In addition,students will employ spatial concepts and landscape analysis to examine human social organization and itsenvironmental consequences. Finally, students will learn about the methods and tools geographers use in theirscience and practice (adapted from the college board). Students enrolled in AP Human Geography will be expectedto participate in the class in a number of different ways, including but not limited to, note taking, group work,writing assignments, and research projects. Students’ primary resource for this class will be their assigned text aswell as any outside readings provided by the instructor. All students enrolled are expected to take the APExam.Course Title: Psychology 479002Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: NoneGeneral Psychology is a one semester course where students survey the following areas of the discipline: history ofthe development of psychology as a science, personality and learning theories, mental health, abnormal behavior,and therapy. Students enrolled in General Psychology will engage in several learning strategies which may includenote taking, group work, writing assignments, and research projects. Students’ primary resource for this class willbe their assigned texts as well as any outside readings provided by the instructor.62

Course Title: AP Psychology 579121 & 579122Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: NoneAP Psychology is a full year course which presents an overview of the field of psychology that encompasses thevarious theoretical approaches of human behavior as well as the scientific basis of psychology with emphasis onresearch regarding behavior. Students enrolled in AP Psychology will be expected to participate in the class in anumber of different ways including, but not limited to, note taking, group work, writing assignments, and researchprojects. Students’ primary resource for this class will be their assigned text as well as any outside readingsprovided by the instructor. All students enrolled are expected to take the AP Exam.Course Title: IB Psychology SL 597030Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorIB Psychology SL is most appropriately defined as the scientific study of behavior and experience. An intensiveexamination of mental processes and their effects on behavior serves to enhance this course. IB Psychology SL willbe taught over one school year at the standard level and be concurrently taught with AP Psychology. Following thestandard level curriculum, this course will focus on three of the classical theoretical perspectives of psychology:biological, cognitive, and learning. To foster further understanding of the perspectives, students will be immersed inthe psychological examination of dysfunctional behavior and treatment. Research methodology, analysis andpractical research application will be practiced through in-depth experimental study. In addition, students will beexposed to many academic and vocational applications of psychology in their everyday lives. The grade of eachstudent will be formulated according to three major written IB assessments which will be complimented by internalunit exams, topical quizzes and review assignments; and projects dealing with the brain and nervous system,behavioral and cognitive psychology, testing and intelligence, and psychological disorders.Course Title: IB Psychology HL 5979033 & 579035Grade Level: 11 & 12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorInternational Baccalaureate (IB) Psychology HL is an intensive examination of mental processes and their effects onbehavior serves to enhance this course. IB Psychology HL is taught over two school years. The first year is taughtconcurrently with Advanced Placement Psychology. Following the standard level curriculum this course will focuson four of the classical theoretical perspectives of psychology: biological, cognitive, learning, and humanistic.Research methodology, analysis and practical research application will be practiced through in-depth experimentalstudy. In addition, students will be exposed to many academic and vocational applications of psychology in theireveryday lives. HL students will choose two options to study in greater depth from among the following options:comparative, cultural, dysfunctional, health, lifespan, psychodynamic, and social. Additionally, HL students willstudy research methodology and qualitative research methods. HL students conduct and report upon an experimentalstudy. Application of an inferential statistical test and incorporation of related research (other than the publishedstudy on which the student’s experimental study is based) into the introduction and discussion sections of the reportare required at HL. The grade of each student will be formulated according to three major written IB assessmentswhich will be complimented by internal unit exams; topical quizzes and review assignments; and projects dealingwith the brain and nervous system, behavioral and cognitive psychology, testing and intelligence, and psychologicaldisorders.Course Title: American National Government 472001Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: NoneAmerican National Government is a one semester course where students investigate the central ideas which formthe basis of the American system of government with emphasis placed on a close analysis of the United States constitutionand its amendments. Students enrolled in American National Government will be expected to participatein the class in a number of different ways including, but not limited to, note taking, group work, writing assignments,and class projects. Students’ primary resource for this class will be their assigned text as well as any outsidereadings provided by the instructor.63

Course Title: Enhanced AP U.S. Government and Politics 572011 & 572012Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: NoneAP Government and Politics is a full year college-level survey class that covers the structure, development, andpolitical nature of the Unites States government, designed to prepare students for the Unites States Government APexam. Students enrolled in AP Government and Politics will be expected to participate in the class in a number ofdifferent ways including, but not limited to, note taking, group work, writing assignments, and research projects.Students’ primary resource for this class will be their assigned texts as well as any outside readings provided by theinstructor. All students enrolled are expected to take the AP Exam.Course Title: IB History of the Americas HL 570050Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorThe HL IB History of the Americas course is a two-year program of study. Eleventh grade diploma candidates willtake IB History of the Americas: Colonialism to the Present. Twelfth grade diploma candidates will take the IBHistory of the Americas: 20 th Century Global Studies component.In IB History of the Americas: Colonialism to the Present, students will focus on social, political, and economicrelationships between the United States, Latin America, and Canada from the 15 th Century to the present. Thecourse will also focus on events from colonizing the New World to the present, including an emphasis on U. S.history and comparisons and contrasts between other countries and events in Latin America and Canada. In additionto preparing diploma candidates to satisfy the writing requirements for the IB program (including major essays),students enrolled in the IB History of the Americas HL course will also be eligible to take the Advanced PlacementExam in U. S. History.In year two, diploma candidates will take IB History of the Americas: 20 th Century Global Studies. This is an indepthstudy of selected 20 th Century world history topics to include the causes, practices, and effects of wars, the riseand rule of single-party states, and the Cold War. Using case studies, this course will examine major trends andissues of the 20 th Century in preparation for major required essays including the Internal Assessment requirement,prescribed topic paper one and essays two and three of the IB required battery of tests.Course Title: Economics 479001Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: NoneEconomics is a one semester survey course that is designed to help students gain an understanding of basiceconomic principles and institutions including scarcity, economic systems, supply and demand, banking, the FederalReserve, inflation, unemployment, and the role of government in the economy. In addition, students will exploretopics related to personal finance. Students enrolled in Economics will be expected to participate in the class in anumber of different ways, including but not limited to, note taking, group work, writing assignments, and classprojects. Students’ primary resource for this class will be their assigned texts as well as any outside readingsprovided by the instructor. Economics is a requirement for graduation for BHS.Course Title: AP Microeconomics/Macroeconomics 579160/579170Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: NoneAP Microeconomics/Macroeconomics is a full year course and students must take the AP exam in May.The microeconomic portion of the course will focus on the decision making process of individuals and firms withinthe broader economic system. Emphasis will be placed on the nature and function of product markets. Attentionwould also be paid to factor markets and the role of government in promoting efficiency and equity in themarketplace. The macroeconomic portion of the course will focus on the nature of the broader economic system asa whole. Emphasis will be placed on the study of topics ranging from national income, inflation, and unemploymentto measure of national economic growth and international economics.64

Course DescriptionsGrades 9-12World LanguagesFrench IFrench IIPre-AP French IIIPre-AP French IVAP French VIB French SLSpanish ISpanish IIPre-AP Spanish IIIPre-AP Spanish IVAP Spanish VIB Spanish SLSpanish for Native Speakers IChinese65

Course Sequence for World LanguagesFrenchFrench I French II French III(Pre-AP)French IV(Pre-AP)8th GradeFrench IIB French SLAP French VSpanishSpanish I Spanish II Spanish III(Pre-AP)Spanish IV(Pre-AP)Spanish forNative Speakers I8th gradeSpanish IIB Spanish SLAP Spanish VChineseChinese I66

Course Title: French I 441001 & 441002Grade Level: 9,10,11Prerequisites: Grade of “C” in English is requiredIn French I, a full year course, students will study beginning vocabulary related to school, family, friends, leisure,and vacations used in basic communication. Students will engage in speaking, writing, listening comprehension,and collaborative learning activities in the target language which will enhance their understanding of a diversesociety. Students will be expected to use reading and listening strategies to enhance comprehension of Francophoneliterature, art, and culture. Moreover, students shall demonstrate an understanding of the similarities and differencesbetween the cultures of the Francophone world and their own.Course Title: French II 441011 &441012Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Grade of “C” or above in French I is required.In French II, a full year course, students will enhance their development and understanding of the language bystudying increasingly complex topics involving the use of more sophisticated language structures, grammar tenses,and vocabulary as well as further develop their pronunciation skills for more accurate communication in the Frenchlanguage. Students will be expected to use reading and listening strategies to enhance comprehension; initiate andsustain original conversations on a variety of topics; use syntax (grammar) and orthography (spelling andaccentuation) accordingly; and give rehearsed presentations (skits, speeches, and interviews). Students willdemonstrate an understanding of the similarities and differences between the cultures of the French-speaking worldand their own.Course Title: Pre-AP French III 541033 & 541034Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Grade of “C” or above in French II is required.In Pre-AP French III, a full year course, students will study more complex and advanced topics and tenses tocomplete their grammar learning; they will increase their speaking skills by staging rehearsed and impromptupresentations on a variety of topics (e.g. skits, speeches, interviews); they will support opinions, viewpoints, andpersonal preferences using correct register, syntax (grammar) orthography (spelling and accentuation), andpronunciation. Students will be expected to listen and speak French, take detailed notes, research a variety of topics,and develop multi-media presentations that combine knowledge of material with creativity. Students will analyze,in French, differences in products, practices, and perspectives among cultures of the French-speaking world; theywill demonstrate an understanding of the similarities and differences between cultures of the French-speaking worldand their own culture.Course Title: Pre-AP French IV 541043 & 541044Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Grade of “B” or above in French Pre-AP French III or a grade of “C” withteacher approvalPre-AP French IV is a full year course. Students will be exposed to extensive grammar, structure and vocabularystudy related to topics of personal relations, living in the city, the world of media, values and traditions, and theevolution of society. They will be exposed to more intensive francophone literature including short stories, plays,novels, poetry, and fine arts. The emphasis is placed on the perfection of language skills learned in the precedinglevels of French. Students will develop linguistic proficiency and cultural sensitivity through use of authenticsituations, collaborative learning, listening, speaking, reading, writing, and cultural activities.67

Course Title: AP French V 541061 & 541062Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: Grade of “A” or above in Pre-AP French III or teacher approvalORGrade of “B” or above in a Pre-AP French IVAP French V, a full year course, is a college level course designed to prepare students for the AP French Languageexam. Students will be taught in French and will be expected to participate fully in the language in class. Classtime will be divided among literature lessons, grammar review, and AP test preparation. Students will engage ininterpersonal as well as presentation (essay) writing and speaking activities. Students will also be evaluated onreading and listening comprehension. Several project will be done over the course of the year researching currentevents in French-speaking countries and employing new aspects of the language. PLEASE NOTE: Currently thereare no other courses after AP French V. Students who take AP French V as a junior will need to consider additionalcoursework in French as a senior through course offerings at NWACC or another institute of higher learning.Students must take the AP exam in May.Course Title: IB French 549070Grade Level: 11 or 12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorIn this one year course, students will develop four primary language skills through an integrated curriculum. Eachof the primary language acquisition skills, listening, speaking, reading and writing, will be mastered as a languagesystem, a means of appropriate cultural interaction, and a medium for effective exchanges of specific messages.Students will develop linguistic proficiency and cultural understanding through use of authentic situations, collaborativelearning, oral and written comprehension and expression. Students will master an extensive theme-relatedvocabulary and grammar review necessary for the reading of excepts from literature (short stories, plays, novels,poetry), movies, and fine arts of French international community.Students will develop proficiency through contextualized interactive exercises, speaking and listening activitiesincluding individual presentations, written compositions, and communication activities in pairs and larger groups.Students will be expected to perform in the four components – oral and written comprehension and oral and writtenexpression – in the target language on the IB assessment. The main objective is for the students to communicateeffectively with international knowledge and proficiency in the four skills to show understanding and sensitivity ofthe cultural, social, political environment of the target language in relevance to an international society.Students will explore connections with other areas of knowledge through integrated discussions and projects in thetarget language with a strong emphasis in cultural awareness. The students’ works will be assessed by external IBassessment criteria and by an internal portfolio including classroom based activities and additional out of classactivities. Students will develop their ownership of the responsibility for their own language learning and developmentof cultural sensitivity through the IB programCourse Title: Spanish for Native Speakers I 540100Grade Level: 9-11Prerequisites: Student’s first language must be Spanish, and s/he will be asked to take aplacement exam.This one-year course is designed to meet the communicative needs of the first– and second– generation Spanishspeakingstudent (non-ESOL Spanish heritage learner) who needs to fine-tune his/her reading and writing skills.Emphasis is placed on developing fundamental literacy skills in Spanish. Students will learn phonetics, propergrammar, spelling, and building a more extensive and diverse vocabulary. This course is taught in Spanish andprepares students to advance to upper-level Spanish courses.68

Course Title: Spanish I 440001 & 440002Grade Level: 9,10,11Prerequisites: Grade of “C” or above in English is requiredIn Spanish I, a full year course, students will study topics used in basic communication, beginning vocabulary andgrammar tenses that facilitate conversation, skills needed for accurate pronunciation and intonation of the Spanishlanguage, and various Latino cultural events which will enhance their understanding of a diverse society. Studentswill be expected to engage in listening, speaking, reading and writing activities as well as creative activities thatdemonstrate knowledge of their learning. Moreover, students shall demonstrate an understanding of the similaritiesand differences between the cultures of the Spanish-speaking world and their own.Course Title: Spanish II 440021 & 440022Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Grade of “C” or above in Spanish I is requiredIn Spanish II, a full year course, students will enhance their development and understanding of the language bystudying increasingly complex topics involving the use of more sophisticated language structures, grammar tenses,and vocabulary as well as further develop their pronunciation skills for more accurate communication in the Spanishlanguage. Students will be expected to use reading and listening strategies to enhance comprehension; initiate andsustain original conversations on a variety of topics; use syntax (grammar) and orthography (spelling andaccentuation) accordingly; and give rehearsed presentations (skits, speeches, and interviews). Students willdemonstrate an understanding of the similarities and differences between the cultures of the Spanish-speaking worldand their own.Course Title: Pre-AP Spanish III 540033 & 540034Grade Level: 10,11,12 and 9th graders who have completed Spanish II or who are nativespeakersPrerequisites: Grade of “C” or above in Spanish IIIn Pre-AP Spanish III, a full year course, students will study more complex and advanced topics and tenses tocomplete their grammar learning; they will increase their speaking skills by staging rehearsed and impromptupresentations on a variety of topics (e.g. skits, speeches, interviews); they will support opinions, viewpoints, andpersonal preferences using correct register, syntax (grammar), orthography (spelling and accentuation), andpronunciation. Students will be expected to listen and speak Spanish, take detailed notes, research a variety oftopics, and develop multi-media presentations that combine knowledge of material with creativity. Students willanalyze, in Spanish, differences in products, practices, and perspectives among cultures of the Spanish-speakingworld; and they will demonstrate an understanding of the similarities and differences between cultures of theSpanish-speaking world and their own.Course Title: Pre-AP Spanish IV 540043 & 540044Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Grade of “B” or above in Pre-AP Spanish III or grade of “C” with teacherapprovalPre-AP Spanish IV is a full year course. Students will be exposed to extensive grammar, structure and vocabularystudy. They will be introduced to Spanish literature including short stories, plays, novels, poetry, and fine arts. Theemphasis is placed on the perfection of the language skills learned in the preceding levels of Spanish. Students willdevelop linguistic proficiency and cultural sensitivity through use of authentic situations, collaborative learning,listening, speaking, reading, writing and cultural activities.69

Course Title: AP Spanish V 540071 & 540072Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Grade of “A” or above in Pre-AP Spanish III or teacher approval,ORGrade of “C” or above in Pre-AP Spanish IV.AP Spanish V, a full year course, is a college level course designed to prepare students for the AP Spanish Languageexam. Students will be taught in Spanish and will be expected to participate fully in the language in class. Classtime will be divided among literature lessons, grammar review, and AP test preparation. Students will engage ininterpersonal as well as presentational (essay) writing and speaking activities. Students will also be evaluated onreading and listening comprehension. Several projects will be completed over the course of the year researchingcurrent events in Spanish-speaking countries and employing new aspects of the language. PLEASE NOTE:Currently there are no other courses after AP Spanish V. Students who take AP Spanish V as a junior will need toconsider additional coursework in Spanish as a senior through course offerings at NWACC or another institute ofhigher learning. Students must take the AP exam in May.Course Title: IB Spanish SL 540020Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Approval by IB CoordinatorIB Spanish SL, a two-year course of study, will allow students and teacher to interact in Spanish and understandthe various world cultures that use the language. Internationalism will be reinforced using debates, role playing,and reading materials in Spanish. The Spanish curriculum will encompass the Spanish III and IV-V courses. Studentsare advised to take Pre-AP Spanish III prior to IB Spanish B SLIB Spanish B SL will consist of 135 hours per year in the classroom for a total of 270 hours at the end of the IBpreparation. Students will be expected to be involved in the International Club. Students will enrich their study ofSpanish through outside activities related to fine arts, culture awareness, and community services, such as a yearlyfield trip to see Boston Flamenco Ballet’s projection in San Antonio followed by a cultural trip to enjoy Mexicancuisine. The IB Spanish program enables diploma candidates to gain a more profound understanding of their ownculture through the study of world cultures.Course Title: Chinese I 447000Grade Level:Prerequisites:In, Chinese I, a full year course, students will interpret passages, present information, and interact with others inthe Chinese language, Putonghua. Chinese I stresses correct pronunciation, aural comprehension, and simplespeaking ability. As communication skills develop, the course includes additional vocabulary and basic grammarnecessary for limited reading and writing. Moreover, students will develop an understanding of similarities anddifferences among the Chinese Language and cultures and their own.70

Career & Technical Education Department(Practical Arts)Agriculture Science and Technology*Animal Science*Biological Animal Science*Greenhouse Management*Agriculture Science*Introduction to Horticulture Science*Leadership and Communications*Managing Natural Resources*Nursery/Landscape*One-semester coursesStudents enrolling in Agriculture Sciencesand Technology courses are encouragedto join the student organization, FFA -Future Farmers of America.71

Course Title: Animal Science 491180Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneAnimal Sciences, a semester course, is a general study of animal science and production designed to build on theinformation introduced in the Agriculture Science course. Topics to be covered include economic importance oflivestock, genetics and animal breeding, animal nutrition, animal health, facilities, and marketing. The businessaspects of animal production will also be covered as well as current ethical issues related to the production oflivestock.Course Title: Biological Animal Science 491200Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Animal ScienceBiological Animal Science, a semester course, focuses on the principles and techniques of feeding, management,housing, diseases and parasites, and marketing. Students will study areas involving beef science, dairy, poultry,swine, sheep, and equine. Projects involving the marketing and conditioning of livestock will be the major pieces ofwork for this course.Course Title: Greenhouse Management 491270Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Introduction to HorticultureGreenhouse Management, a semester course, offers the serious horticulture student an in-depth study of greenhousemanagement practices. Structural considerations are covered as well as plant propagation techniques, pesticide use,and marketing strategies. Students will receive ample opportunity to practice the skills learned during this course.This is a technical course designed to prepare students to produce greenhouse/nursery plants and to maintain plantgrowth and propagation structures. Students are expected to spend several hours during class and after school, asnecessary, maintaining plants in the greenhouse.Course Title: Agricultural Science 491140Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Freshmen will have priority schedulingPrerequisites: NoneAgricultural Science, a semester course, provides students with an overview of the Agricultural Science andTechnology program of study. A brief introduction is given to each area included in the total Agricultural Educationprogram so that students can then decide in which areas they are most interested. Students will cover units includingbasic animal, plant, and soil science. A significant portion of the course is devoted to National FFA Organizationand Supervised Agricultural Experience Program. Leadership development is provided through FFA in citizenshipand personal development training.72

Course Title: Introduction to Horticultural Science 491280Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIntroduction to Horticultural Science, a semester course, is an introductory course for students with a strong interestin horticulture. Careers in the industry are covered, as well as basic plant systems and pest control. Students will beintroduced to the areas of greenhouse management, nursery management, and landscaping. Students will berequired to learn and identify nursery plants as well as tropical plants.Course Title: Leadership and Communications 491300Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Agriculture ScienceLeadership and Communications, a semester course, assists students in the development of their leadership skills forthe future. Public speaking, parliamentary procedure, organization, delegation, oral communication, conflictresolution, business etiquette, and community service are major topics.Course Title: Managing Natural Resources 491310Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneManaging Natural Resources, a semester course, offers students a chance to explore natural resources and developknowledge and skills to use now and in the future. Resources studied include soil, water and air, forests, energy,minerals and metals, fish and wildlife identification. The use of natural resources for outdoor recreation will also becovered. Careers in natural resources will be researched and environmental issues debated. Students are required toprepare a project on wildlife identification as their major piece of work.Course Title: Nursery/Landscape 491330Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Introduction to HorticultureNursery/Landscape, a semester course, offers the serious horticulture student an in-depth study of the production ofplants, shrubs, and ornamental trees for transplanting to landscape design. Propagation, designing plans,installation, transportation, maintenance and careers are included in the curriculum.73

*Advanced Access and Excel*Business LawComputerized Accounting IComputerized Accounting II Honors*Computer Applications I*Computer Applications II*Computer Applications III*Desktop Publishing II HonorsBusiness Education*Keyboarding*Keyboarding ApplicationsManagement*Programming IStudents enrolling in BusinessEducation courses are encouragedto join the student organization,FBLA - Future Business Leadersof America.*Programming II Pre-APAP Computer Science A (JAVA)Senior Technology SeminarWeb Design IWeb Design IIYouth Apprenticeship--CIS (Computer Information Systems)*One-semester courses74

Course Title: Advanced Access and Excel 492530Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: CAIII OR Programming IIIn Advanced Access and Excel, a semester course, students will learn advanced techniques in databases andspreadsheets. In database, students will create tables using advanced filters, sorts with multiple criteria, defaultvalues, input masks, data validation, and lookup fields. In Excel, students will use absolute and mixed cellreferences, the IF function and VLOOKUP, create and edit charts, use and link multiple workbooks, consolidateworksheets, create pivot tables, and write macros. Students will complete a presentation using Word,and/or PowerPoint to display their ability to organize information using database/spreadsheet software.Course Title: Business Law 492070Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: noneArticulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A” or “B”in this course.In Business Law, a semester course, students will study legal problems and rights encountered in businesstransactions and will gain knowledge about laws that affect business and employees. This study includes elementsof law and the judicial systems; laws relating to minors, consumers, and the business firm; elements of contracts;using credit; employment laws; checks and commercial papers; insurance and property rights. As students completeprojects in this course, they learn to apply the knowledge they have gained about the basic concepts of business lawto practical situations. This course is designed for students interested in exploring a pre-law, businessadministration, or criminal justice career. Business Law offers students a basic understanding of criminal and civillaw through mock trials, role playing, multimedia presentations, and the use of case studies.Course Title: Computerized Accounting I 492101 & 492102Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: KeyboardingArticulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A” or “B”in this course.Computerized Accounting I is a full year course in which students study double entry accounting that includesprinciples of recording business transaction in a multi-column journal and posting to the ledger. They will study thepreparation of various accounting documents, the interpretation of financial statements, and the different kinds ofaccounting careers. The manual accounting process is taught initially. Software is then integrated to facilitate theprocessing of accounting data and the use of the computers in accounting. Students reinforce their understanding ofaccounting procedures by working through realistic accounting cycles for a proprietorship and a partnership.Course Title: Computerized Accounting II Honors 492115 & 492116Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Computerized Accounting IArticulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A” or “B”in this course.In Computerized Accounting II, a full year course, students will gain knowledge, understanding, and skills necessaryfor careers in accounting. Partnerships as well as departmental, corporate and cost accounting systems are coursecomponents. Students will apply their knowledge of business decision-making processes while studying theaccounting system of a corporation that uses special journals. More advanced accounting procedures, manual andcomputerized, will be provided to enhance the realism of an actual accounting office. After the completion of thiscourse, students will possess the necessary skills to obtain employment in an entry level accounting position, tomaintain accurate financial records for their own business, and to succeed in college level accounting courses.75

*COMPUTER APPLICATIONS*Computer Applications I, II, and III are courses that comprise a self-paced, mastery-basedcurriculum. Students work individually through each lesson. When a student demonstrates 80%mastery of a lesson, he/she may proceed to the following lesson. Students may “challenge” alesson by requesting to complete an assessment.Course Title: Computer Applications I 492490Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Keyboarding Applications or an A or B in KeyboardingComputer Applications I, a one semester course, provides students with the fundamental computer skills necessaryto do well in high school and needed in virtually all jobs today. In the area of word processing, students will learnthe fundamental skills necessary to create and edit the most widely used documents and use the most commonlyused features of a word processor, such as bullets, numbered lists, special characters, borders and shading, fonts, andparagraph and line searching. In the area of spreadsheets, students will be expected to create and edit simplespreadsheets, using basic formulas and functions, and create a simple graph or chart. In the area of PowerPoint,students will learn to create a PowerPoint presentation. Students will use the mail, calendar, and scheduling featuresof Outlook.Course Title: Computer Applications II 492500Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Computer Applications IComputer Applications II, a one semester course, provides students with the intermediate computer skillsnecessary to do well in high school and needed in virtually all jobs today. Students will learn techniques that willallow them to create somewhat complex word processing documents, such as mail merge, web page design, andgraphics. In the area of spreadsheet documents, students will apply logical and financial functions, advancedfunctions. Students will also complete projects in MLA and APA Style Papers and WordArt. Students will alsouse Publisher to create documents such as brochures, flyers, signs and newsletters.Course Title: Computer Applications III 492510Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Computer Applications IIComputer Applications III, a one semester course, provides students with the advanced computer skills necessary todo well in college and needed in most jobs today. Students will learn techniques that will allow them to create,access and edit databases. Students will also become skilled at using advanced Word and Excel features. Studentswill prepare their resumes as the final project in this course.Course Title: Desktop Publishing II Honors 492160Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Computer Applications IIIIn Desktop Publishing II, a semester course, students will use Microsoft Publisher, Front Page, and PowerPoint tocreate publications, web pages, and presentations. Students will be expected to apply skills learned in ComputerApplications to create graphical images and apply images and text in several formats. Students will create apersonal web page as their major piece of work.76

Course Title: Keyboarding 690050Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: noneArticulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A” or “B”in this course when taken in 9-12 grades.In Keyboarding, a semester course, students will develop speed and accuracy by learning the touch operation ofalphanumeric/keyboard characters. Students will participate in a broad range of activities to include: exercise tolearn the alphanumeric and numeric characters, timed writings, and keying various correspondence documents andreports. Emphasis is placed on the following: mastery of keyboard with desirable keyboarding techniques;development of speed and accuracy; basic problem-solving applications of centering and arranging reports, letters,and tables; proofreading; formatting; and proper care of equipment. Students who successfully completedKeyboarding in the 8th grade may not repeat the course in 9-12. Students who receive a grade of “C” or belowin Keyboarding will be required to successfully complete Keyboarding Applications before enrolling inComputer Applications I.Course Title: Keyboarding Applications 690060Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: KeyboardingKeyboarding Applications, a one semester course, further develops Keyboarding skills. Emphasis is placed on thefollowing: speed and accuracy; proofreading; producing mailable copy from rough draft; handwritten and statisticaldocuments; and improving production of various types of business communications. Keyboarding Applicationsprovides the skills and knowledge necessary for entry-level employment for business careers. Students who receivea grade of “C” or below in Keyboarding will be required to successfully complete Keyboarding Applicationsbefore enrolling in Computer Applications I.Course Title: Management 492321 & 492322Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: noneArticulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A” or “B”in this course.Management is full year general business course concerned with understanding common business vocabulary, factsprinciples, and concepts needed to become effective members of our business society. Students will studytechnology, organizational charge, diversity in the workforce, business ethics, and world competition, and gain anappreciation of the link between business and societies in global economic systems. Students will develop insightsfor deciding on specific career objectives from a great number of employment opportunities in the business worldtoday. Class discussions, group work, research, videos, guest speakers, etc. will help students make decisions andproblem solve concerning careers and management in our global society.Course Title: Programming I 492390Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Keyboarding, Algebra I (B or higher in the one-year course)In Programming I, a semester course, students will study the fundamentals of the JAVA programming language,syntax, and applications as they are introduced to Object-Oriented Programming concepts. Strong analytical andmath skills are recommended. At the completion of this course, students will develop an application in JAVA thatdemonstrates their programming knowledge. Students must successfully complete the one-year Algebra I coursewith at least a “B” before enrolling in this course.77

Course Title: Pre-AP Programming II 492400Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Programming I with “C” or betterIn Pre AP Programming II, a semester course, students will continue their study of JAVA to further advance theprogramming skills gained in Programming I. Again, strong analytical and math skills are needed. More advancedprogramming techniques will be utilized in developing JAVA statements, variables, loops, and conditionalinstructions to create programs. Students will also explore different ways to use computers as problem solvers. Acomplex program will be developed at the completion of this course. It is strongly recommended that ProgrammingII students have successfully completed or concurrently enroll in Geometry. This is a preparatory course for APComputer Science A.Course Title: AP Computer Science A (JAVA) 460040Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Pre-AP Programming IIIn AP Computer Science A (JAVA), a full year course, emphasis is placed on object-oriented programmingmethodology with a focus on problem solving and algorithm development and is meant to be the equivalent of a first-year college level course. It also includes the study of data structures and abstractions. The AP Marine BiologySimulation Case Study is a simulation designed to help marine biologists study fish movement in a small, boundedenvironment such as a lake or bay. This simulation is a required part of the AP exam. Students are required to takethe AP exam as their major piece of work.Course Title: Senior Technology Seminar 492551 & 492552Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: Computer Applications III or Pre-AP Programming II, ApplicationProcess AND Teacher ApprovalIn Senior Technology Seminar, a full year course, students are actually assigned technology projects from theschool district and local businesses. The projects may include developing multimedia presentations, creatingadvanced databases, maintaining websites, publishing school newsletters, flyers, etc. Students who are chosen willbe expected to maintain high ethical standards and produce timely, quality work in a responsible, dependablemanner.Course Title: Web Design I 492650Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Computer Applications IIA year-long course, the Web Design I course consists of two parts: Site Development Foundations and DesignMethodology and Technology. Development Foundations teaches you essential Web page development skills. Youwill learn to develop Web sites using Hypertext Markup language (HTML) and Extensible HTML (XHTML). Youwill learn to write code manually, as well as use graphical user interface (GUI) authoring tools. You will also learnto insert images, create hyperlinks, and add tables, forms, and frames to your Web pages. Site DevelopmentFoundations provides an introduction to tasks, job roles and careers in Web development. This course will teach youto work as a productive part of a Web site development team. Hands-on labs include real-world scenarios. DesignMethodology and Technology is a course that teaches students how to create and manage Web sites with tools suchas Microsoft FrontPage, Macromedia Dreamweaver and Flash, Dynamic HTML, and various multimedia and CSSstandards. Students will also implement the latest strategies to develop third-generation Web sites, evaluate designtools, discuss future technology standards, and explore the incompatibility issues surrounding current browsers. Thecourse focuses on theory, design and Web construction, along with information architecture concepts, Web projectmanagement, scenario development and performance evaluations. INDUSTRY CERTIFICATION EXAM: Uponsuccessful completion of both certification exams (scoring 60% or higher on the Site Development Foundationsexam and scoring 70% or higher on the Site Design and Methodology exam), the student will earn industrycertification as a CIW Associate Design Specialist.78

Course Title: Web Design II 492660Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Web Design IA year-long course, the Web Design II course begins with foundational Internet and IT knowledge and progressestoward learning about job roles that require higher skill levels. Candidates earn the CIW Associate designation bypassing the two sections of the CIW Foundations exam. Topics covered in this course include a basic knowledge ofInternet technologies, advanced Internet user skills, an introduction to networking, and the basic hands-on skills andknowledge that a database professional is expected to understand and use. A passing score on the CIW Foundationsexam allows participants to progress to higher levels of CIW certification. This course consists of three modules:Internet Business Foundations, Network Technology Foundations and Database Design. INDUSTRYCERTIFICATION EXAM: Upon successful completion of both certifications exams (scoring 60% or higher on boththe Internet Business Foundations and the Network Technology Foundation Foundations exam), the student willearn industry certification as a CIW Associate. A student also scoring 75% or higher on the Database DesignSpecialist exam will receive additional industry certification as a CIW Database Specialist.Course Title: Youth Apprenticeship--CIS (Computer Information Systems) 493950Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Keyboarding, one computer credit, application, an interview process withvocational director, instructor, and participating businesses.Youth Apprenticeship--CIS, a full year course, provides classroom instruction at BHS in the area of computerinformation systems. Several area businesses provide on-the-job training in CIS under the leadership of a job-sitementor. Students will have the opportunity to learn and work with state-of-the-art technology. Students will meetweekly with the BHS Youth Apprenticeship instructor. Parental support and permission are required.79

Family and Consumer Sciences*Child DevelopmentChild Care and Guidance, Management and ServicesFamily & Consumer ScienceFamily Dynamics*Food and Nutrition*Food Science*Housing and Interior Design*Human RelationsOrientation to Teaching I*Parenting*One-semester coursesStudents enrolling in Family andConsumer Science courses are encouragedto join the student organization, FCCLA -Family, Career and Community Leadersof America.80

Course Title: Child Development 493020Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: noneChild Development, a semester course, focuses on skills needed to guide the physical, intellectual, emotional, andsocial development of children from birth to age twelve. Students are expected to master state standards byparticipating in class discussions, role-playing, writing summaries, and listening to guest speakers. Major pieces ofwork include: wearing a pregnancy empathy simulator, observation in a day care, and researching various topicsrelated to the course.Course Title: Child Care and Guidance, Management and Services 493011 & 493012Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Child DevelopmentArticulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A” or “B”in this course.In Child Care and Guidance Management and Services, a full year course, students will study child development,health and safety, Arkansas state minimum licensing requirements, planning and managing a child care program,and caring for children with special needs. Students will participate in lecture, group work, analysis andcomparison, and labs. Course work will include a minimum of 40 hours of work in a child care facility.Course Title: Family and Consumer Science 493080Grade Level: 9, 10, 11, 12Prerequisites: noneIn Family and Consumer Science, a full year course, students will be provided with basic information and skillsneeded to function effectively within the family and within a changing, complex society. The students will beexpected to participate in class discussion, group work, presentations, research, labs, and use of technology. Majorprojects include but are not limited to infant care simulation, meal planning and preparation, clothing construction,and model housing design. Upon completion of this course, the student should have developed basic life skills thatpromote a positive influence on the quality of life.Course Title: Family Dynamics 493101 & 493102Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: noneFamily Dynamics, is a full year course that focuses on the role of the family in helping individuals develop to theirhighest potential. Emphasis is given to family life, personality development, relationships, crisis management,parenting, money management, and career planning. The affect on families in current trends in housing, food andfitness, and civic responsibility are also explored. Students will participate in group work, class discussion,activities, projects, & self-assessments. Upon completion of this Course, the student should have an understandingof the impact of the family on an individual’s ability to function Successfully in a complex society.Course Title: Food and Nutrition 493110Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIn Food and Nutrition, a semester course, students will study nutrition, healthful eating, basic cooking skills, foodpurchasing, safe food handling practices, meal planning, table service, and kitchen management. Students willparticipate in lecture, note taking, writing, labs, group work, use of primary math skills and technology to date.81

Course Title: Food Science 493130Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Food and NutritionIn Food Science, a semester course, students will study the physical and chemical changes that occur in thepreparation, evaluation, and utilization of food. Students will participate in lecture, note taking, group work,research, writing, analysis, comparison, labs, and use of technology.Course Title: Housing and Interior Design 493140Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneHousing and Interior Design is a semester course that focuses on housing needs and the options for meeting thoseneeds. Emphasis is given to renting/buying, the past and present trends in housing, architectural design andconstruction, art principles as applied to housing and interiors, home furnishings, and career opportunities in housingand interior design. Course work will include a portfolio and an interior design project.Course Title: Human Relations 493150Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIn Human Relations, a semester course, the course focuses on the study of personality development, communicationskills, conflict resolution, stress management, goal setting, effective family relationships, friendships, dating, mateselection, and decision making relationships at work. Students will participate in journal writing, note taking,writing options, and group and class activities.Course Title: Orientation to Teaching 493240Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Child DevelopmentOrientation to Teaching is a one-year course designed to provide students with information and experiences inthe field of education. Students will plan and direct individualized instruction and group activities, prepare instructionalmaterials, assist with record keeping, make physical arrangements, and experience other responsibilitiesof classroom teachers. Students are involved in observations as well as direct student instruction; placementrotations are utilized to allow students to have experiences in various education career roles, grade levels,subject areas, and ability groups. Upon completion of the course, students should have identified areas of specialinterest that may be pursued further, have a better understanding of the teaching profession, and have enhancedemployability skill which will be benefit regardless of future career choices.Course Title: Parenting 493210Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIn Parenting, a semester course, students will study a parent’s role in the child’s development from conceptionthrough the preschool years, birth defects, skills and techniques in guidance, discipline, developing child’s selfesteem, books and activities for children, choosing child care services, and the cost of a baby. Students willparticipate in journaling about their childhood experiences and their opinions, and in group and class activities. Themajor project involves taking care of a computerized baby for two nights.82

Marketing*Enterprise ManagementMarkets and Consumers IMarkets and Consumers IIMarketing Work Internship/Work-based Learning*Retailing*One-semester courses“Students enrolling in Marketing courses areencouraged to join the student organization,DECA.”83

Course Title: Enterprise Management 492170Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneEnterprise Management is a semester course in which students participate in an overview of entrepreneurship (howto start and operate your own business). Students will be engaged in class discussions, note taking, group work,research, real world applications, and projects. Students will learn basic business practices covering various formsof ownership, management, financing, location analysis, pricing, and promotion. Students will be required tocomplete a major project that incorporates business plan development, promotion plan, floor plan and competitiveanalysis for a business they would like to open in Northwest Arkansas. Occasionally, guest speakers from localbusinesses will be invited to speak to the students. (Enrollment in the class the semester prior to Retailing isstrongly suggested.)Course Title: Markets and Consumers I 492331 & 492332Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Retailing & Enterprise ManagementArticulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A”or “B” in this course.In Markets and Consumers I, a full year course, students analyze the complex and challenging strategies employedto convey consumer needs and wants to profitable business activity. Students will engage in class lecture anddiscussion, note taking, group projects, and research of current market trends and economic analysis. This coursewill present an introductory-level study of marketing which is invaluable to college-bound students who may showinterest in Marketing/Management studies.Course Title: Markets and Consumers II 492351 & 492352Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: Markets and Consumers IIn Markets and Consumers II, a full year course, students’ class work is directed toward human relations, personnelmanagement, and general business management. Students will participate in lectures and discussion, group work,research of current business practices, and analyzing current economic conditions. This course is geared towardseither college bound students or students who are preparing to enter the workforce following high school. Studentswill engage in a supervised work program. Enrollment is limited and by application only. DECA membership isrequired.Course Title: Work Internship 492341 & 492342Grade Level: 12Prerequisites: Enrolled in Markets and Consumers II, Counselor certification thatgraduation requirements are being met, Teacher Approval, AND ApplicationMarketing Work Internship, a full year course, is an integral part of the on-the-job training portion of MarketingEducation. Students are given the opportunity to use the skills and knowledge learned in class on their jobs.Students will receive one credit for on-the-job training; the credit is recorded as P (Pass) or NC (No Credit). Seniorsparticipating in the work program may leave school early in order to go to work depending on the number ofrequired credits that have been met and their class schedule. Students receive a monthly evaluation by theiremployer and their supervising teacher.Course Title: Retailing 492430Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneArticulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A”or “B” in this course.Retailing is a semester course in which students will study the history of retailing, various types of marketing,organization, personnel, merchandising, promotion, selling, operations, and control. Students will engage in classdiscussions, group work, and individual projects that will be used to incorporate concepts and practices of retailbusiness operations. Guest speakers from the local business community are invited to speak to the students. Toincorporate concept and practices of retail business operations, 84 a design portfolio is required.

Medical Professions Education*Introduction to Medical Professions*Human Behavior & Disorders*Medical Procedures*Medical Terminology*Sports Medicine I*Sports Medicine IISports Medicine III*One-semester coursesStudents enrolling in Medical ProfessionsEducation courses are encouraged to join thestudent organization, HOSA - HealthOccupations Students of America.85

Students enrolled in the Medical Professions Education curriculum are strongly encouraged to completeAnatomy/Physiology through the Science Department.Course Title: Introduction to Medical Professions 495340Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneIntroduction to Medical Professions, a one-semester course, is designed to provide students with basic informationand skills needed for a career in the health care field. In this comprehensive course, emphasis is given to thedevelopment of competencies related to HOSA (Health Occupation Students of America), study skills, medicalhistory and events, health care systems, health care careers, qualities of a successful health care worker, medicalethics and legal responsibilities, medical terminology, communication, medical math, nutrition and health, humangrowth and development, classification of disease, and job-seeking skills.Course Title: Human Behavior & Disorders 495320Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: None (Introduction to Medical Professions is strongly encouraged)Human Behavior & Disorders, a one-semester course, addresses the rapidly expanding role of technology in thehealth care field by focusing on computer application in health care, uses of technology in patient diagnosis andtreatment, current status of medical technology and future trends. The course also encompasses the non-physicalside of health care and includes mental health, patient rights, influences on behavior, nonverbal behavior, sympathyand empathy, abnormal psychology and mental diseases such as schizophrenia, bi-polar disorder, depression &anorexia.Course Title: Medical Procedures 495330Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: None (Introduction to Medical Professions is strongly encouraged)Medical Procedures, a one-semester course, helps students develop specific skills needed in the health professions.Emphasis is given to the development of competencies related to the care, maintenance, and environment of thepatient/client. Record keeping, clinical skills, aseptic techniques, safety, first aid/CPR, pharmacology knowledge,and medical math, including computations, are included in this course.Course Title: Medical Terminology 495360Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: None (Introduction to Medical Professions is strongly encouraged)Articulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A”or “B” in this course.Medical Terminology, a one-semester course, assist students in developing the language used for communication inthe health care profession. Areas of study include fundamental word structure, organization of the body, diagnosticand imaging procedures, pharmacology, general medical terms, and the following body systems: integumentary,skeletal, muscular, digestive, cardiovascular, lymphatic, immune, respiratory, urinary, endocrine, nervous, sensoryand reproductive.86

Course Title: Sports Medicine I 495310Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Introduction to Medical Professions (may enroll concurrently in bothcourses)Sports Medicine I, a one-semester course, provides students with a general overview of sports medicine from theperspective of the healthcare community that includes injury prevention, treatment, rehabilitation, psychosocial, andadministration concerns. Students will gain an understanding of sports medicine and the role it plays in the athleticcommunity. Students will have the opportunity to work with various professionals in the field. 20 observationhours are required for completion.Course Title: Sports Medicine II 495311Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Sports Medicine I and Medical Terminology (may enroll concurrently inMedical Terminology)Sports Medicine II, a one-semester course, provides students with an in depth view of the world of sports medicinefrom the perspective of the Certified Athletic Trainer in terms of interacting with the healthcare community invarious areas such as emergency situations, physiology and biomechanics of injury as well as injury prevention,treatment, rehabilitation and pharmacology. Students will have the opportunity to work with athletic trainers indifferent settings as well as earn certifications in First Aid and CPR/AED. Students must complete 40 hours ofobservation to fulfill the requirements of this course.Course Title: Sports Medicine III 495312Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Sports Medicine II, Anatomy and Physiology and Instructor Permission.Sports Medicine III, a year-long course, provides students with a basic overview of musculoskeletal injuryrecognition and evaluation from head to toe. It is designed to introduce students to basic evaluation procedures andspecial tests for different joints and types of injury. Successful completion of this course is highly recommended foranyone interested in applying to an accredited athletic training program at the university level. Students mustcomplete a minimum of 80 hours of extracurricular participation as a student athletic trainer to fulfill therequirements of this course.87

Technical and Professional EducationArchitectural Drafting CoursesDrafting and DesignArchitecture CADD I HonorsArchitecture CADD II HonorsArchitecture CADD II LabPre-Engineering CoursesComputer Integrated ManufacturingDigital ElectronicsIntroduction to Engineering and DesignPrinciples of EngineeringEngineering Design and DevelopmentStudents enrolling in Technical andProfessional courses are encouraged tojoin the student organization, Skills USA.88

Course Title: Drafting and Design 494701 & 494702Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: NoneArticulation Agreements with NWACC allow credit to be given to students making an “A” or “B”in this course.In Drafting and Design, a full year course, students will receive instruction in basic fundamentals of drafting anddesign, using computer aided drafting systems. Students may engage in verbal and visual instruction, note taking,using reference material and preparing various drawings. Students may prepare and maintain a portfolio of notes,instructional materials and drafting projects. Students enrolling in the course should have a strong background inmath and geometry.Course Title: Architecture/CADD I Honors 494710Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Drafting and Design and instructor approvalIn Architecture/CADD I, a full year course, students will receive instruction in fundamentals of architectural designand details relative to residential buildings. Students may engage in preparation of presentation drawings, andconstruction documents for a residence. Students may participate in construction site field trips. Students mayprepare and maintain a portfolio of research notes, instructional materials and all drawings relative to major project.Course Title: Architecture/CADD II Honors 494731 & 494732Architecture/CADD II Lab 494721 & 494722Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Architecture CADD I OR instructor approval*Classes take two periods, count as two credits, and must be taken together.In Architecture/CADD II and Lab, a full year course, students will receive instruction in advanced study relative toarchitectural design and details. Students may engage in preparation of client program, preliminary design,presentation drawings, and construction documents for a building project. Students may prepare and maintain aportfolio of research notes, instructional materials and all drawings relative to major project. Students mayparticipate in construction site field trips.Course Title: Computer Integrated Manufacturing 495450Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Introduction to Engineering and Digital or Instructor ApprovalStudents should have completed or be enrolled in Algebra II.Articulation Agreement:Computer Integrated Manufacturing, a full year course, is a study of a study of the modern computer controlledmanufacturing process. The course begins with an overview of manufacturing then focuses on CNC milling androbotics. Students learn the basic of programming, setting up, and using a CNC mill and robotics programming.The end-of course project requires students to integrate the different equipment into a miniature production line andmass produce a product . Both the mill and the robotics arm are similar to those found in modern industry.89

Course Title: Digital Electronics 495461 & 495462Grade Level: 10,11,12Prerequisites: Algebra I and concurrently enrolled in GeometryArticulation agreement: Students can receive college credit offered at PLTW affiliatedcolleges if they maintain an 85% average for the year and score of 75% or higher on thecollege credit end of course exam.Digital Electronics, a full year course, begins with a brief overview of DC electronics followed by an intense studyof the foundations of digital control systems. The course offers a good foundation for all engineering students,especially those students interested in electrical and computer engineering. Students learn to design circuits usingcomputer simulation and then build the devices. The building process helps students learn to read schematics, useprototype boards, solder, and troubleshoot.Course Title: Introduction to Engineering Design 495480Grade Level: 9,10,11,12Prerequisites: Concurrently enrolled in a college preparatory math and science course.Articulation: Students can receive college credit offered at PLTW affiliated colleges if theymaintain a 85% average for the year and a score of 75% or higher on the end of course exam.Introduction to Engineering Design, a full year course, is appropriate for students who are interested in engineeringand engineering technology through computer modeling. The major focus of the IED is to expose students to thedesign process, engineering standards, research and analysis, technical documentation, global and human impacts ofdesign, communication methods and teamwork. This is a speaking and writing intense course.Course Title: Principles of Engineering 495490Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: IED and concurrent enrollment in Chemistry or Physics and Algebra II.Articulation: Students can receive college credit offered at PLTW affiliated colleges if theymaintain a 85% average for the year and a score of 75% or higher on the end of course exam.Principles of Engineering, a full year course, helps students understand the fields of engineering and engineeringtechnology. Students will explore the various fields through a written report and presentation. The students willexplore various technology systems and manufacturing processes to learn how engineers and technicians applymath, science, technology and the engineering problem solving process to the benefit of society. This course alsoincludes concerns about ethical, social and political consequences of technological change. This is a speakingintensive course.Course Title: Engineering Design and Development 495470Grade Level: 11 & 12Prerequisites: Two Engineering courses, one of which must be Introduction to EngineeringEngineering Design and Development, a full year course, is the Capstone engineering course that challengesstudents to use their problem solving skills to complete engineering projects for BHS and local companies. Workingin small teams, students will use the engineering design process to plan solutions, develop 3D computer models,build and test prototypes, and finally present their projects to their company or school customers. All studentsinterested in Engineering or Engineering Technology careers should enroll.90

Career ExplorationGuidance and PreparationCourse Title: Internship 493860Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Candidates must have a 2.0 GPA, be enrolled in the third course of acareer focus, and complete the application process.Internship is a capstone course for all students in programs of study leading to a career goal. Internships rely onwell-defined partnerships between high schools, business communities, and post-secondary institutions andapprenticeship programs. The purpose of the program is to help students successfully transition from a high schoolenvironment to the environment of their chosen career field. Students will be scheduled into 7th & 8th hours andwill receive one credit for class instruction and one credit for work. Students must work a minimum of 10-12hours per week. Students must also maintain membership in the student organization related to their CTE focus.Applicants must realize that acceptance in the internship program is competitive and limited. Manyfactors contribute to a successful placement, and (as in real life) an application does not guaranteeacceptance as an intern.Course Title: Workplace Readiness 493880Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: NoneWorkplace Readiness, a semester course, is designed to teach students the organization transferable skillsnecessary to succeed in the ever changing workplace through teamwork, problem-solving, communication, selfmanagement,and career readiness. Students will develop an educational plan that identifies their career-specificgoals and the steps necessary for achieving them. Students will create a portfolio that contains a personal factsheet, resume, cover letter, skills and abilities, and samples of their work to ensure professional presentation in ajob interview. This course also includes a job shadow experience and personal interview project to refine theirinterpersonal skills and employability. Through their coursework, student will have the opportunity to earn theCareer Readiness Certificate.Course Title: Fundamentals of Television 493420Grade Level: 11,12Prerequisites: Candidates must have a 2.0 GPA, be enrolled in the third course of acareer focus, and complete the application process.This full year course is designed to address the foundation skills required for the pursuit of a career in broadcasting.The class will cover topics such as careers in broadcasting, writing processes, planning a production,and ethics and legal issues. When students complete this course, they will have the necessary knowledge andskills to participate in the production of videos and media releases. This program is also designed to providepractical knowledge and skill in preparation for a career in television production. Students will hopefullyproduce their own news show and announcements for the school.91

CAREER & TECHNICAL PROGRAMS OF STUDY--2011 - 2012Program Title Career Focus Requirements ElectivesAgricultural Science Any Agriculture Science related courseAgricultural Sciences--Animal Systems Animal ScienceBiological Animal ScienceAgricultural Science Any Agriculture Science related courseAgricultural Sciences--Horticulture Introduction to HorticultureGreenhouse ManagementDrafting & DesignArchitectural Drafting ArchCADD IArchCADD IIArchCADD II LabBusiness--Finance Computerized Accounting I Any Business related courseComputerized Accounting IICA I - CA III Any Business related courseDesktop Publishing IIBusiness--Information Management OR ORCA I - CA III Any Business related courseProgramming I & Pre-AP Programming IIComputerized Accounting I Any Business related courseBusiness--Management ManagementCA I - CA II*In order to complete a Career & Technical program, a student must earn aminimum of three credits in their chosen career focus and elective option courses.92

CAREER & TECHNICAL PROGRAMS OF STUDY--2011 - 2012Program Title Career Focus Requirements ElectivesF&CS--Child Care Management ParentingChild Development Any F&CS related courseChild Care and Guidance Mgmt. and Ser.F&CS--Family & Consumer Science Family & Consumer Science Any F&CS related courseMarkets and Consumers I Any Business or MarketingMarketing Education Markets and Consumers II related courseIntro. to Medical Professions Any Medical Professions EducationMedical Professions Education Medical Procedures related courseAnatomy & PhysiologySports Medicine I, II, IIIPre-Engineering Digital ElectronicsIntro. To Engineering Design Any Pre-Engineering related coursePrinciples of Engineering*In order to complete a Career & Technical program, a student must earn aminimum of three credits in their chosen career focus and elective option courses.93

PREPARING FOR LIFE AFTER HIGH SCHOOLYou are entering high school at a time when knowledge is increasing more rapidly than ever before. In fact,research recently completed by the United States Department of Education reveals that knowledge has doubled fourtimes between 1988-2000 and that it will continue to multiply even more rapidly in the Twenty-First Century.Driving that increase in knowledge is a world of technology that constantly expands human capabilities. These factsmean that for your generation, post-secondary education will be a necessity.The decisions you make now as you consider or revise a four-year graduation plan as well as actions you takethroughout high school will greatly affect your future. To increase your potential for fulfilling a successful andprosperous future, you are encouraged to:• Take the most challenging courses available to you – Especially consider taking high-level mathematicsand science courses. Research shows that completing a mathematics course beyond the level of Algebra IImore than doubles the likelihood that a student who begins college will actually complete a bachelor’sdegree. Completing multiple laboratory-based science courses also increases your chances of finishingcollege. Of course, research also shows that completing higher-level mathematics and science courses hasa direct correlation with higher ACT or SAT scores.• Concentrate on making the best grades you can.• Consider taking Advanced Placement courses. Taking and successfully completing Advanced Placementcourses in high school is highly correlated with completing a bachelor’s degree…and achieving higherACT/SAT scores.• Get involved in some activity that will help you develop special skills. Your interest could be a sport,music, art, volunteering, or an academic competition. You will need some interest to balance a focus onacademics, and you will discover that most colleges place some importance on involvement in an activityin their admissions considerations.• Develop strong study skills now so that you will be prepared to face the next stage of formal education.• Read. The College Board advises you to read at least thirty minutes beyond your required study andhomework every day. Choose books, magazines, newspapers, etc. of interest to you to ensure you will setaside time to read.• Begin to think now about what careers might best suit your abilities and interests so that you can enroll inclasses that will prepare you for continuing education.• Increase your technology skills. In the near future, virtually every job in our society will require skills with“information-processing technology.”• Commit to learning how to acquire – and use – information. With knowledge increasing rapidly, beingable to access and apply information will be a critically important skill.With college education most likely fitting in your future, it is important that you also consider what matters most incollege admissions. The most recent survey of college admissions officials showed that courses selected wasalmost twice as important as any other admissions criteria at most colleges. Ranking significantly behind thelevel of courses taken were college entrance examination score, class rank, and overall grades. Most colleges willtell you that they are interested in the strength of a student’s curriculum and in students who challenge themselvesby taking honors and Advanced Placement classes. If a high school offers these classes and a student decided not totake them, it shows that the student did not rise to the challenge.As you consider your high school graduation plan, BHS staff encourages you to “rise to the challenge” of preparingfor success in the future by making the right choices today.Scholarship Director at BHS is an excellent resource to assist you with questions you may have regardingscholarship opportunities.PREPARING A FOUR-YEAR PLAN FOR GRADUATIONYou will make many decisions about your four-year high school program of study. You are urged to consider eachdecision carefully. In selecting a program of study, you will want to consider all the possibilities – just as you dowhen you choose a new CD or decide about going to a movie – realizing that this is one of the most importantdecisions you will make during the next several years. There are certain steps to follow that can help you make yourchoices:94

• Find out all you can about the courses offered.• Compare the courses. Think about yourself and how each course might help you reach your goals.• Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each course. Weigh these carefully.• Choose the courses that best match with your goals.KNOW ABOUT YOUR HIGH SCHOOL’S PROGRAMSYour counselor and teachers will be helpful in advising you more specifically about the high school programs ofstudies offered. Find out:*The requirements for graduation*The courses required to begin certain sequences of courses*The elective courses you may take that are not required*The kinds of education or work for which the program can prepare you.KNOW ABOUT CAREERSYou probably will not be ready for several years to choose a specific career. In planning your high school programof study, however, you will need to consider courses which seem interesting to you. You will need to know aboutthe education required for careers that are of interest to you.KNOW ABOUT YOURSELFTo make wise choices, you also will need to understand yourself and your goals for the future. It is important,therefore, to take time to learn more about yourself. Here are some questions to answer which can help youunderstand yourself better.My AbilitiesIn which subjects do I do well in school?What do I do well outside of school?Which talents do I have? (Play a musical instrument, sing, paint, dance, act, write, etc.)Which sport or sports do I play well?Will I meet NCAA guidelines for an athletic scholarship?My InterestsWhich subjects are most interesting to me in school?Which activities are most interesting to me in school?Which activities are most interesting to me outside of school?What are my hobbies?My AttitudesWhat is important to me in my life?Which people are important to me?Which activities are important to me?Which possessions are important to me?95

My LikesWhich subjects do I like in school?Which activities do I like in school?Which activities do I like outside of school?Do I like to be with other people much of the time?Do I like to be alone much of the time?Do I enjoy working in a group?Do I enjoy working with my hands?Do I enjoy reading?Do I enjoy figuring out how things work?Do I like to use technology and to learn new applications?My GoalsWhat do I want to accomplish in high school?What might I want to do after high school?Ask yourself these questions and others of this kind. Do not be upset if you have trouble answering some of them.As you get older, your ideas and goals will become clearer. Talking with your counselor, parents, teachers, andfriends can help you get a clearer picture of yourself.Additionally, both the College Board and ACT websites provide excellent guides for career planning. The CollegeBoard website (www.collegeboard.org/career) even includes an online Career Questionnaire that will point you topossible careers based on responses to sections on temperaments, abilities, working conditions, education, interestareas, salary requirements, and future demand for the employment area The ACT website (www.act.org/path/parent/career) encourages parents and students to work together in a career planning process that is developed in sixsteps. As you progress through high school, continue to visit these websites that continue to expand their guidancefor students and their parents.CAREER PLANNINGEntering high school will be an important step for you. You will be meeting new students, teachers, principals, andother faculty members. Most likely, you also will have to learn about the rules of a new school and find your wayaround a larger school building. You will take new courses and start new activities. You will find that you will beexpected to take more responsibility for your own decisions, school work, and actions.An important part of your responsibilities in high school will be to choose and take courses to prepare yourself forthe future. Remember: your high school program of study and your success in it will affect what you may do afteryour graduate.THINK ABOUT YOUR FUTUREPerhaps you have already begun to think about what to do after high school. You most likely are considering goingto college. You may be wondering about attending another type of school, such as a vocational technical school.You may be thinking of preparing for a job or for a military service. Perhaps you are not sure what you want to do.MANY CAREERS REQUIRE EDUCATION AFTER HIGH SCHOOLYou do not have to make a final decision now about your plans after high school because you will have manyexperiences during the next four years that will affect your choices. You may need time to explore manypossibilities before deciding what you will do. You will, however, have to choose a high school program of studies.In choosing your program, it is important to remember that almost every career requires a college education orfuture vocational-technical training after high school.96

WHO CAN HELP YOU PLAN YOUR FOUR-YEAR HIGH SCHOOL GRADUATION PLAN?Your parents may be your best advisers in developing a graduation plan. They understand your personality andabilities. They know your interests, likes, dislikes, and strengths. They also can tell you about things they havelearned from their own education and work, which can help you in making decisions. After you and your parentshave read this section of the book, talk with them. Discuss with them your thoughts and concerns about high schooland your future. Other people, who know you well, such as your relatives and friends, can also help you. Considergetting their ideas.Your school counselor can assist you to better understand yourself, your goals, high school courses, and careers. Besure to meet with your counselor for help in deciding which direction to take in high school.You can get ideas from your teachers. They know the work you have done in their subjects and will be able to makesuggestions about your graduation plan. Talk with your principal, too. The advice of your teachers and principalcan be very useful to you in making your choices.There may be some careers that seem interesting to you. If there are, talk with people in those careers to getinformation for planning your program of studies. They can tell you about their work and the kind of educationneeded for it. You may want to use this information in choosing courses you will take. Most important, rememberthat you will be leaving high school at a time in which information and technology are rapidly changing. Thus, youshould take as challenging courses as possible to be prepared for continued formal education and for life.SEEKING SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AID FOR COLLEGEWith the costs of completing higher education continuously increasing, most students will need to consider seekingscholarships or some other form of financial aid, and choices made on first entering high school can affect astudent’s likelihood of gaining needed assistance. To have the highest probability for gaining the financialassistance that may be needed, you should:*select and pursue a rigorous program of courses that will prepare you well for seeking a degree/areaof interest to you*make good grades and maintain good attendance*participate in extracurricular and volunteer activities*take the appropriate college entrance exam (s)*join appropriate school clubs and organizations*interview someone in your field of interest*visit the Career Center for scholarships, jobs, and universities information.By following these guidelines, you increase your possibility for gaining some type of financial aid. There aregenerally four major types of financial aid available to students. They are as follows:Scholarships - awards based on merit (either academic or some area of talent)Grants - awards based on financial need which do not need to be repaidLoans - funds which are loaned through a bank, a college, or a lending institution with interest rates that areusually reasonable.Work-Study Program - jobs that allow students to earn money toward their education and which are coordinatedthrough the college’s financial aid office.It would be a good idea to begin early in your high school career to think about schools you might want to attendafter graduation from high school and to get some knowledge about potential expenses. Then you may begingaining as much information about financial assistance as possible. Web site addresses for resources that can helpyou in your search for financial aid are listed below.The Financial Aid Information Page: http://www.fafsa.ed.govCollege Board Online: http://www.collegeboard.comACT: http://www.act.org/path/parent/resourceArkansas Scholarship Connection: http://www.adhe.edu97

COLLEGE TIMELINE CHECKLISTThe following guidelines provide a skeleton list of activities to consider at each grade level as you prepare forcollege. For more complete information, consult your counselor.Grade 8• Consult your counselor for the most appropriate level of courses for meeting college requirements.• Additionally, the College Board web page (www.collegeboard.com/planning) includes a specialsection for pre-high school students.Grade 9• Plan your four-year graduation plan. Take the most rigorous classes available to improvecollege admission possibilities.• Make sure that your program of studies includes at least two or three years of a language other thanEnglish.• Become familiar with college entrance requirements. Use website addresses, 1-800 telephone numbers,or mailing addresses to get information about all colleges of interest to you, and plan your high schoolprogram of studies accordingly.• Begin researching your career choices and the educational requirements of each.• Develop good study habits.• Participate in a variety of extracurricular activities.• Inventory your test-taking abilities and read materials on the PSAT, SAT, and ACT. Check the web sitesfor PSAT/SAT and for ACT for practice tests. In addition to the longer practice test, the College Boardweb site has an SAT Question of the Day that provides hints should you select the wrong answer andexplanations supporting your correct answer. Getting in the habit of attempting this program daily andusing it as a tutorial can serve as good preparation for taking a college entrance examination.• If you are enrolled in Pre-AP mathematics and language arts courses, plan to take the PSAT• Read a wide range of books as a supplement to school assignments. SAT/ACT performance isalways higher for regular readers.• Begin to volunteer within the Bentonville community, maintain a record of your activities.Consider taking the ACT/SAT three times before November of your Senior year.Grade 10August• Keep in mind that competitive colleges are more impressed by respectable grades in challenging coursesthan by outstanding grades in easy ones.• Check credits to make sure you are on schedule for completing graduation requirements• Consult college web sites to make sure your courses meet college entrance requirements.• Visit the Career Center to learn more about different universities and careers.• Consider participating in clubs/activities.98

September• Register to take the PSAT if you have taken or are currently enrolled in geometry. Considerparticipating in a PSAT preparation program.• Review for the PSAT. Study the PSAT/NMSQT Student Bulletin and old tests. Use web sites, computersoftware, and printed aids for study.• Get involved in clubs/school activities.October• Take the PSAT. On the test form, check the box which will put you on the mailing list for collegeinformation.December/January• Study your PSAT score report. Compare items missed with the correct responses.Throughout the Year• Continue taking appropriate courses. Research shows that full participation in academicallychallenging courses is the best preparation for college entrance examinations and for success incollege.Grade 11• Maintain good grades.• Gather and review information about colleges• Investigate costs of various college programs.• Continue to review career choices. The ACT website (www.actstudent.org) has an excellent six-stepplanning guide in the Life Roles section for parents to help you with this important process.• Take interest inventory if availableMay/June• Athletes who plan on playing college level sports need to register with the NCAA clearinghouse.The website is www.ncaastudent.orgAugust• Get off to a good start this semester. Your junior year grades are very important. Takeas many academic courses as possible.• Check credits to make sure you are on schedule for meeting graduation requirements.• If possible, narrow your career interests to one or two fields.• Stop by the Career Center to find information on colleges, careers, etc..• Think about volunteering for community service.September• Register to take the PSAT.• Start thinking more seriously about what sort of college you would like to attend. Use resources listedearlier in this guide to find the school that’s right for you. The College Board website may help you getstarted.99

• Log on to Tassel Time to find options on how to pay for college. See you counselor or the Career Centeron how to log on.• Register for an SAT preparation class if available.• Review for the PSAT. Study the PSAT/NMSQT Student Bulletin and old tests. Use computer software,websites, and printed aids. Consider participating in a preparation program.October• Take the PSAT for National Merit Scholar recognition. On the test form, check the box which will putyou on the mailing list for college information.October/November• Write to the colleges that interest you.December• Study college information• Collect information on scholarships and financial aid programs.January/February• Register for SAT preparation class if available and if you are taking this test in May or June• If you plan to apply for an ROTC scholarship or admission to a service academy, write forapplication packets. Check with Mr. Jones for information on doing this.• Sign up for and take the PSAT/SAT Test Preparation Course before taking the SAT• Check registration deadlines for the SAT, ACT, and other appropriate tests.March/April• Plan program of study for senior year with your counselor. Learn about opportunities to earn collegecredit for advanced placement. Take as many academic courses as possible. Register for collegeentrance tests.May/June• Participate in a SAT/ACT preparation program• Take SAT or ACT.• Take Achievement Test(s).• Continue to develop strong study habits.• Explore opportunities for college dual-enrollment credit.Summer (Before Senior Year)• Select the top five to ten colleges you feel best meet your needs. Try to pare your list to five or six byAugust. Make sure to include a “sure bet,” two or three “good prospects,” and a “dream school.”• Visit college campuses. You only get two college visit days during your senior year.• Keep a record of the advantages and disadvantages of each college.100

Grade 12• Request catalogs, applications, financial aid information, and specific information about your proposedmajor area of study.• In August begin thinking about personal statements for college admission essays. Reflect on interestingexperiences you have had. Think about how you might explain how you are different from otherstudents.The repeated references to dates of the various SAT and ACT tests are not meant to imply that you should take themevery time they are listed. You should determine which dates are the most appropriate for you, keeping in mindapplication deadlines. If you need assistance in this decision, please be sure to check with your guidance counseloror Mr. Jones.August• Check your credits. Be sure you have all of the required courses and credits for graduation. Make anyadjustments needed in your schedule to meet the requirements for graduation or the requirements at theparticular college you wish to attend. Think about volunteering for community service.September• Meet with your guidance counselor to review your records. Match these with the entrance requirementsof the colleges you are considering. Make a list of your activities and awards. Update this listthroughout the fall.• Register for and take college admissions tests if you haven’t already.• Choose a minimum of three to five colleges to which you will apply. Your selection should include atleast one that you feel will definitely accept you. Athletes should discuss their ability to play at collegelevel with their respective coaches.• Begin requesting application materials from schools of your choice. Your college may take the“common application” that is used by many colleges and universities. Check in the counseling office.• Online applications may be available as well.• Begin thinking more seriously about your financial aid needs. Calculate your Estimated FamilyContribution (ESF) and judge whether you will need a scholarship, grant, loan, or work/study program.You can find assistance at the web site addresses provided earlier in this guide.• Get an early start on applying for scholarships and grants. You can apply throughout the year, but startnow.• Check college catalogs and web sites for applications for admissions, housing, financial aid, requiredentrance exams (SAT or ACT) and deadlines for financial aid forms (FAFSA). If you are a candidate forearly decision, file your application in time to meet that deadline. Also be sure to check the LASTacceptable test date for an early decision candidate. Parents and students need to be aware of thecontractual obligations for early decision. See Mr. Jones for further discussion.• Register to take the appropriate college entrance exam.• Talk with teachers and other people who know you well and whom you will ask to write arecommendation for you.• Prepare a resume to assist any person from whom you will request a letter of recommendation.• Schedule college tours. Check your school calendar for dates when you are not in school other thanholidays. Use these. Call ahead for an appointment.• Meet with college representatives when they visit BHS.• Maintain good grades.101

• Distribute application and recommendations forms to guidance counselors and teachers for completionof their sections. (Teachers and counselors are asked to write numerous recommendations; always allowat least four weeks for them to complete recommendations.)October• Make more college visits• Arrange sending of transcript and recommendations to colleges. Provide a stamped, addressed envelopeif needed.• Begin to fill out application forms. Many colleges require essay responses. Allow yourself ample timeto do a good job. Request that an English teacher check your essay for grammar, spelling, punctuation,style, etc. (Again, allow sufficient time for the teacher to check and make suggestions.)• Meet application deadlines for early decision (usually November 10, housing, scholarships, or financialaid.• Take/retake the SAT/ACT if necessary.November• Continue to study hard because your first semester senior year grades are very important.• Research the quality of the departments at colleges you like the most. Ask questions of current studentswhen you visit. If interested in a pre-professional program, check on the placement record for theuniversity.• Complete college applications for admissions. Follow up on letters of recommendation. Requesttranscripts as needed. Copy ALL forms before you mail them. Mail to meet deadlines.December• Look back over your timeline to be sure you have completed each step in the college admissions process.• Request that SAT or ACT scores be sent to all colleges to which you have applied. If you did not listthem when you registered for the tests, fill out the special form for additional college scores. Theseforms are on the ACT/SAT websites.• Expect notification of early decision acceptance or deferral by December 15. If you are notaccepted, file your other applications IMMEDIATELY.• Ask your parents to begin gathering their financial information.January• File your FAFSA as soon as possible after January 1. The FAFSA Website is www.fafsa.ed.gov.(Estimate the required tax information if your tax forms are still incomplete. It is best if your familycompletes tax returns by the end of the month.) Pay attention to the deadline since some states require anearlier deadline than others. Keep a photo copy for your records.• Research for scholarships and loans. Long on to Tassel Time for more information. See Mr. Jones forfurther information.February• Keep your grades up….finish strong…remember that you will be accepted to college• Check deadlines for financial aid/scholarship grants. Many forms are due March 1.March• Wait……102

AprilMayJune• Look for acceptance notices. April 15 is the most popular date for some competitive colleges to notifystudents. Let your counselor know what has happened.• Choose your college and write the college a letter of acceptance, which the college should receive beforeMay 1.• Write other colleges to decline their acceptance (also before May 1).• If you are wait-listed and wish to be kept in consideration, be sure to advise the college.• If all colleges send rejections, don’t panic! There are several alternatives. See your counselor• Finalize plans for housing, financial aid, and/or scholarships.• Make any deposit required by the institution you plan to attend. May 1 is the generally acceptednationwide deadline for deposits for fall term.• If applicable, register for Advanced Placement Tests. List colleges you wish to receive your scores.• Make final choice of college or university if you have not already done so. Complete all detailsconcerning college admissions.• Notify your counselor of your final college choice and whether you have been awarded any scholarships(academic, athletic, artistic, dramatic, or musical.)• Request that a final transcript be sent to your college choice.• Take Advanced Placement Tests.**HAVE A HAPPY GRADUATION**July/Summer before College Freshman Year• When you receive your Advanced Placement Test grades, if you have not already requested that thescores be sent to the college that you will be attending, request College Board to do so.• Participate in the orientation program of the college you will attend. This may have occurred in thespring or may take place just prior to the fall term.• Check on opportunities to pre-register for fall term classes. Learn about campus resources and facilities.TESTS FOR COLLEGE-BOUND STUDENTSPSAT/NMSQT (Preliminary Scholastic Aptitude Test/National Merit Scholarship Qualifying Test)The PSAT/NMSQT measures verbal and mathematical reasoning abilities. It serves three purposes:• allows students to compare their academic abilities with other college-bound students at their specific gradelevel• familiarizes students with the SAT• allows college-bound juniors to compete for National Merit Scholarship RecognitionThe test is offered only in October and should be taken by all college-bound juniors. Sophomores are encouraged totake the test for practice, and selected ninth grade students may make special arrangements to take the test.To make the best possible use of PSAT/NMSQT results, review the “Report of Student Answers” to determine howyou performed on each type of question. Noting the kinds of mistakes made can help you identify your areas ofweakness and assist you in planning SAT preparation.103

COLLEGE ADMISSION TESTSDifferent colleges require different admission tests. To find out which tests are required, you should check thecatalogs or web sites of any colleges to which you plan to apply. Most colleges require the scores of the ScholasticAssessment Test (SAT) or the ACT (American College Testing Program).Application forms for the tests are available in the counseling office. It is your responsibility to have your scoressent directly to the colleges of your choice from the testing agency.SAT (Scholastic Assessment Test)Many two and four-year colleges require SAT scores as part of their admissions requirements. The SAT coversthree parts: verbal, mathematics, and a test of standard written English. The verbal and mathematics scores arereported in a range of 200 – 800 with 500 being the median score. The admission score varies among colleges. Ifyou plan to attend college, you are encouraged to take the test at the end of the junior year or early in the senior year.If you are applying to a military academy, you must take the SAT in your junior year. The SAT is given seven timesa year. Testing dates are found on the college board website or in the counseling office. (www.collegeboard.com)ACT (American College Testing Program)Some colleges require ACT scores as part of their admissions requirement. The ACT assessment covers four subjectareas: English, mathematics, social studies, and natural science. The scores are reported for each subject area plus acomposite score. The composite score ranges from 1 to 36 with 18 being average. The admission score variesamong colleges. The ACT is offered six times a year. It is recommended that students take the test three timesbefore November of the senior year. Testing dates are found on the ACT website or in the counseling office.(www.actstudents.org)COLLEGE CREDIT AND PLACEMENT TESTSSAT (Subject Test)The more selective colleges usually require the scores of two or more College Board Subject Tests as part of theadmissions process. These tests are one-hour multiple choice tests that measure the student’s knowledge of aparticular subject and his/her ability to apply that knowledge. The SAT Subject Tests are used by some colleges forplacement. These tests are offered in several subject areas. You should take the appropriate test at the completionof the course.AP (Advanced Placement) ExaminationsAdvanced Placement Examinations are based upon college-level courses taught in high school. They may enable thestudent to receive college credit, advanced placement, or both. Scores are reported on a five-point scale, with fivebeing the highest score. A score of three or better is generally accepted for advanced placement and college creditby many colleges. Check with the college you plan to attend for their policy. By exempting several freshman-levelcourses in this way, a student may realize substantial savings in college costs. AP teachers and counselors willadvise students about the AP courses and the AP examinations.CLEP (College Level Examination Program)CLEP provides an opportunity for individuals who have acquired certain knowledge outside the traditionalclassroom to earn college credit examination. The scores range from 200 – 800. Some colleges give credit forscores above 500 enabling students to skip certain courses. Before participating in the program, you should checkthe policy of the prospective college regarding the granting of CLEP credit and consult your high school counselor.IB (International Baccalaureate) PapersInternational Baccalaureate Papers are the culminating exams given to IB students when they complete the collegelevelIB courses in high school. These exam scores are combined towards the achievement of the IB Diploma. Thataccomplishment and individual exam scores may enable students to earn individual college course credit oradvanced standing at most major universities. These papers are marked on a seven point scale. As score of four orbetter is usually required for the college credit. Check with the college you plan to attend for their policy. TheInternational Baccalaureate Diploma Programme Coordinator or your counselor can advise you on this program.104

Bentonville High School Graduation RequirementsClasses of 2012 and BeyondThe following courses must be successfully completed during grades 9-12 for thegraduating class of 2012 and beyond.• 4 credits English I-IV or equivalents• 4 credits *Mathematics (must include one unit in algebra and one unitin geometry)• 3 credits Science (must include one unit in a physical science and oneunit in biology or its equivalent)• 3 1/2 credits Social Studies (must include one credit in U.S. History, onecredit in World History, 1/2 credit in Civics, 1/2 credit inGovernment and 1/2 credit in economics)• 1 credit Practical Arts (agriculture, business/marketing, family andconsumer science, medical professions, and/or trade andindustrial)• 1/2 credit Fine Arts (art, music, drama)• 1/2 credit Oral Communications• 1/2 credit Health• 1/2 credit Physical Education• 6.5 credits Electives• 2.5 ~ may be academic and/or **nonacademic electives• 4 ~ must be academic electivesTotal of 24 credits* If a course of study sequences algebra over a two-year period and geometryover a two-year period, students must complete all four years. All other mathunits must build on the base of algebra and geometry knowledge and skills.** Nonacademic electives are courses in athletics, physical education (beyondone credit), service credit, and the onsite portion of a work program.Academic electives are all other courses.*** For the graduating classes of 2012 and beyond, Smart Core requirementsmust be completed within the 24 credits required to graduate from BHS. Seeyour child’s counselor for more information.105