13.07.2015 Views

2012-2013 High School Curriculum Bulletin - McAllen ISD

2012-2013 High School Curriculum Bulletin - McAllen ISD

2012-2013 High School Curriculum Bulletin - McAllen ISD

SHOW MORE
SHOW LESS

Create successful ePaper yourself

Turn your PDF publications into a flip-book with our unique Google optimized e-Paper software.

<strong>Curriculum</strong> <strong>Bulletin</strong>We Offer Choice!Grades 9-12<strong>2012</strong>-<strong>2013</strong><strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Memorial <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Rowe <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Lamar Academy Achieve Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>It is the policy of <strong>McAllen</strong> I.S.D. not to discriminate on the basis of sex, handicap, race, color or national origin in its educational or career and technology program activities or employment as required by Title IX,Section 504 and Title VI. The district will take steps to insure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation in any educational or career and technology program.


Page 2<strong>McAllen</strong> Independent <strong>School</strong> DistrictBOARD OF TRUSTEES2011-<strong>2012</strong><strong>McAllen</strong> Independent <strong>School</strong> District Board of Trustees and Superintendent.Seated, left to right, are Mrs. Debbie Crane Aliseda, Mrs. Hilda Garza-DeShazo (Secretary), and Mrs. Erica de la Garza (AssistantSecretary). Standing, left to right, are Mr. Daniel Vela (Vice-President), Mr. Javier Farias, Dr. James Ponce (Superintendent),Dr. Joseph Caporusso and Mr. Sam Saldivar, Jr. (President).It is the policy of <strong>McAllen</strong> I.S.D. not to discriminate on the basis of sex, handicap, race, color or national origin in its educational or career and technologyprogram activities or employment as required by Title IX, Section 504 and Title VI. The district will take steps to insure that lack of English language skillswill not be a barrier to admission or participation in any educational or career and technology program.


Message to the Parents and Students:We Offer Choice!TABLE OF CONTENTSPage 3In keeping with our district’s vision of promoting and encouraging educationalexcellence, <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>, Memorial <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>, Nikki Rowe <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>,Options <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> at Lamar Academy, and Achieve Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>continue to provide our students with an extensive curriculum focusing on a diverseprogram of study and course offerings.As the <strong>2012</strong>-13 pre-registration process begins, we ask that parents and students taketime to make serious decisions regarding course selections, college admissions andcareer preparation. Counselors will assist students in selecting courses which are bestsuited to their interests and abilities. However, effective educational planning is thecollaborative responsibility of parents, students and school staff.We ask that you and your child take the time to share in making these decisions.Continued communication between you, your child and school personnel will contributeto positive results and accurate placement.We encourage you and your family to study this bulletin thoroughly, and with theassistance of school personnel, select courses that will ensure the successful completionof career and academic goals.Texas State Graduation Requirements 4Advanced Academic Services 7Exemptions From Final Examinations 13Texas Scholars / TECH PREP 14General Information 14UIL 16English 17Math 18Science 24Social Studies 25Sincerely,Christine Beck, Principal <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>(956) 632-3100Rosa Larson, Principal Memorial <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>(956) 632-5201Bridgette Vieh , Principal Nikki Rowe <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>(956) 632-5100Yvette Cavazos, Principal Achieve Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>(956) 872-1653Career and Technology 27Fine Arts 33Other Languages 35PE/Health/Sports/PE Equivalents 37Communications 37Miscellaneous/Peer Assistance Leadership 39Cindy Pena, Principal Options <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> @ Lamar Academy(956) 632-3222


Page 4Graduation Requirements (Policy EIF Local Exhibit)Additional State-approved courses not offered in M<strong>ISD</strong> may be accepted for transfer credit upon evaluation of the student’s transcript. Students who wish to graduate on the Minimum <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Plan must obtainapproval in accordance with House Bill 3. Students with disabilities who are enrolled in a state-mandated course as per the Admission, Review, and Dismissal Committee recommendations for graduation with modifiedcurriculum shall graduate under the Minimum Graduation Plan.DISCIPLINEEnglish/Language ArtsMathematicsScienceSocial StudiesEconomicsAcademicElectivePhysicalEducationHealthEducationLanguages OtherThan EnglishFine ArtsSpeechTechnologyApplicationsDistrictRequiredElectivesMINIMUMHIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMTAKS/STAARCREDITSRECOMMENDEDHIGH SCHOOL PROGRAMTAKS/STAARCREDITSDISTINGUISHED ACHIEVEMENT PROGRAMFour Advanced Measures RequiredTAKS/STAAREnglish I, II, III, and IV 4.0 English I, II, III, and IV 4.0 English I, II, III, and IV 4.0Must include Algebra I andGeometry. The 3rd Math creditmust be either MMA or Algebra II.Biology and IPC;May substitute Chemistry orPhysics for IPC , but must use theother as the Academic ElectiveCreditMust consist of World HistoryStudies or World GeographyStudies; U.S. History Studies; andU.S. Government.Emphasis on the free enterprisesystemOne of the following: WorldHistory; World Geography; orstate approved science course. (Ifsubstituting Chemistry or Physicsfor IPC, the academic elective mustbe the other of these two sciencecourses).Any combination of the following:Foundations of Personal Fitness;Aerobic Activities; Team Sports; IndividualSports; Athletics; JROTC;Marching Band; Dance Team; orCheerleading. 1.5 prior to 2010-110.5 for students who entered Grade9 prior to 2010-112010-11 or after3.0 Must consist of Algebra I, Geometry and AlgebraII. See next page for 4th Math.If MMA is taken as one of the 4 math courses,then it must be taken before Algebra II.2.0 Biology and two credits must be chosen fromthe following areas: IPC (elective, if successfullycompleted prior to Chemistry and Physics).Students who have credit for IPC prior to 2010-2011 may choose to also take Chemistry andPhysics to satisfy science requirements; or maychoose between Chemistry or Physics and a 4thscience); Chemistry; Physics; See next page for 4thScience2.5 Must consist of World Geography, World History,U. S. History, and U. S. Government4.0 Must consist of Algebra I, Geometry, andAlgebra II.See next page for 4th Math.MMA will not count toward DAP Math4.0 Biology; Chemistry; PhysicsSee next page for 4th Science3.5 Must consist of World Geography, WorldHistory, U. S. History, and U. S. Government0.5 Emphasis on the free enterprise system. 0.5 Emphasis on the free enterprise system. .51.0 None Required 0 None Required 01.51.00.50.0Any combination of the following:Foundations of Personal Fitness; AerobicActivities; Team Sports; Individual Sports;Athletics; JROTC; Marching Band; Dance Team;or Cheerleading. 1.5 prior to 2010-110.5 for students who entered Grade 9 prior to2010-112010-11 or afterNone 0 Must consist of any two levels in the samelanguageNone for students who enteredGrade 9 before 2010-2011.One credit for students who enterGrade 9 in 2010-2011 or later fromany of the following: Art; Dance;Music; TheatreEither of the following:-Communications Application01.0One credit from any of the following:Art; Dance; Music; Theatre, Principles andElements of Floral Design (CTE Course)0.5 Either of the following: -CommunicationsApplications1.51.00.50.0Any combination of the following:Foundations of Personal Fitness; Aerobic Activities;Team Sports; Individual Sports; Athletics; JROTC;Marching Band; Dance Team; or Cheerleading. 1.5prior to 2010-110.5 for students who entered Grade 9 prior to 2010-112010-11 or after2.0 Must consist of any three levels in the samelanguage1.0 One credit from any of the following:Art; Dance; Music; Theatre; Principles and Elementsof Floral Design (CTE Course)0.5 Either of the following: -CommunicationsApplicationsSee page 4. 1.0 See page 4. 1.0 See page 4. 1.0PREP<strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> / College Transition(for students 2011-12 and after)Elective Courses Students who entered Grade 9before 2011-12. Students whoentered Grade 9 after 2011-121.01.07.58.5PREP<strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> / College Transition(for students 2011-12 and after)Students who entered Grade 9 before 2010-11Students who entered Grade 9 in 2010-11Students who entered Grade 9 after 2011-121.01.0PREP<strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> / College Transition(for students 2011-12 and after)Students who entered Grade 9 before 2010-11Students who entered Grade 9 in 2010-11Students who entered Grade 9 after 2011-12Total Credits 26.0 26.0 26.02.53.52.5CREDITS4.04.03.51.51.00.50.03.01.00.51.01.01.52.51.5


FOURTH MATH AND SCIENCE OPTIONSThe chart below outlines courses that will satisfy the fourth math and science requirement for studentsgraduating on the Recommended and Distinguished Achievement Plans.Page 5Recommended PlanMathScienceThe 3rd and 4th sciencecredits may be taken concurrentlyMathDistinguished Achievement PlanScienceThe 3rd and 4th sciencecredits may be taken concurrently.Mathematical Models with Applications Earth and Space Science Advanced Quantitative Reasoning Earth and Space Science(must be taken prior to Algebra II andnot concurrently with Algebra II)Advanced Quantitative Reasoning Environmental Systems Precalculus or Precalculus PreAP Environmental SystemsPrecalculus orAquatic Science AP Statistics Aquatic SciencePrecalculus PreAPAP Statistics Astronomy AP Calculus AB AstronomyAP Calculus AB Pathophysiology AP Calculus BC PathophysiologyAP Calculus BC Anatomy and Physiology Independent Study in Mathematics Anatomy and PhysiologyCollege Math PREPIndependent Study in Mathematics AP Biology Concurrent Enrollment in College Math AP BiologyCollege Math PREPConcurrent Enrollment in College Math Chemistry AP Computer Science A AP ChemistryAP Computer Science A AP Chemistry Engineering Mathematics AP Physics BEngineering Mathematics Physics Business Calculus AP Physics CBusiness Calculus AP Physics B Statistics and Risk Management AP Environmental ScienceStatistics and Risk Management AP Physics C IB Mathematical Studies Starndard Level Scientific Research and DesignIB Mathematical Studies Starndard Level AP Environmental Science IB Mathematical Starndard Level Engineering Design and Problem SolvingIB Mathematical Starndard Level Scientific Research and Design IB Mathematical <strong>High</strong>er Level Engineering Design and DevelopmentIB Mathematical <strong>High</strong>er Level Engineering Design and Problem Solving IB Further Mathematics Standard Level Advanced BiotechnologyIB Further Mathematics Standard Level Engineering Design and Development IB Biology Advanced Animal ScienceIB Biology Advanced Biotechnology IB Chemistry Advanced Plant and Soil ScienceIB Chemistry Advanced Animal Science IB Physics Food ScienceIB Physics Advanced Plant and Soil Science IB Enviromental Systems Forensic ScienceIB Enviromental Systems Food Science Medical Microbiology (CTE)Medical Microbiology (CTE)Forensic ScienceState of Texas Assessments of Academic Readiness (STAAR)STAAR will begin for ninth-graders in 2011-<strong>2012</strong> with 12 end-of-course (EOC) exams that will count 15% of course grade and be required for graduation:• Math: Algebra I, Geometry, Algebra II• Science: Biology, Chemistry, Physics• English Language Arts: English I, English II, English III• Social Studies: World Geography, World History, U.S. HistoryPLAN FOR PHASE-OUT OF <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> TAKS AND PHASE-IN OF STAAR ASSESSMENTS2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-<strong>2012</strong> <strong>2012</strong>-<strong>2013</strong> <strong>2013</strong>-2014Grade 9 TAKS TAKS STAAR** STAAR STAARGrade 10 TAKS TAKS TAKS STAAR STAARGrade 11 TAKS TAKS TAKS TAKS STAARGrade 12 TAKS* TAKS* TAKS* TAKS* TAKS**12th grade TAKS re-testers **First-year 9th graders (8th graders in 2010-2011)


Page 6Information Parents Should KnowIt is the policy of <strong>McAllen</strong> I.S.D. not to discriminate on the basis of sex, handicap, race, color or national origin in its educationalor career and technology program activities or employment as required by Title IX, Section 504 and Title VI. The district will takesteps to insure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation in any educational or careerand technology program.1. Board Policy FB (Local) The District designates the following person to coordinate its efforts to comply with Title IX of theEducation Amendments of 1972, as amended:Name: John WildePosition: Director for Student Support ServicesAddress: 2000 North 23rd Street, <strong>McAllen</strong>, TX 78501Telephone: (956) 618-60312. Board Policy FB (Local) Reports of discrimination based on disability may be directed to the ADA/Section 504 coordinator.The District designates the following person to coordinate its efforts to comply with Title II of the Americans with Disabilities Actof 1990, as amended, which incorporates and expands upon the requirements of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, asamended:Name: Glenda McClendonPosition: Coordinator of Counseling and GuidanceAddress: 2000 North 23rd Street, <strong>McAllen</strong>, TX 78501Telephone: (956) 618-60983. Board Policy FNG, (Legal/Local) (Exhibit A-F) Student Rights and Responsibilities. Student and Parent Complaints/Grievances ProceduresName: Dr. Mike BarreraPosition: Asst. Superintendent for District OperationsAddress: 2000 N. 23rd St. <strong>McAllen</strong>, TX 78501 or at www.mcallenisd.orgTelephone: (956) 688-5445


Advanced Academic ServicesEvery high school student is encouraged to participate in the high school academicprogram that provides academic rigor and an opportunity to take one or morecollege level courses while still in high school. Some students have not been usedto stretching their intellectual muscles, and may be selling themselves short by notparticipating in the Advanced Academic Program.Identified high school gifted and talented students are served through one or acombination of the following programs:• the Advanced Placement Program,• the International Baccalaureate (IB) Program or• College Concurrent Enrollment<strong>High</strong> school advanced academic programs are open to all students. All areasof service for the Advanced Academic Program and the gifted and talented studentinvolve an intensive course of study that culminates in students being eligible toreceive college credit for successfully completing high stakes exams or participatingin college level work.The academically rigorous courses of study engage students in activities designedto develop skills in writing, problem - solving, critical and creative-thinking skills.Students will be expected to engage in the coursework as if they are in college andare requested to devote the necessary extra hours of study for every 1 hour of classtime, to be successful. The Advanced Academic Program at every high school willgive students a clear understanding of the effort needed to excel in college.Advanced Placement CoursesAP courses provide students the opportunity to take college - level courses while stillin high school. These courses are taught using college - level textbooks and requirein-depth reading of texts from multiple genres, periods, and cultures. Pre-AP coursesprovide students with the skills and knowledge base necessary to be successful inAdvanced Placement Courses.Why take Pre AP and Advanced Placement Courses?• Gain the edge in college preparation• Get a head start on college-level work in Advanced Placement.• Improve writing skills and sharpen problem-solving techniques.• Develop the study habits necessary for tackling rigorous course work.Stand Out in the College Admissions Process• Demonstrate your maturity and readiness for college.• Show your willingness to take the most rigorous courses available.• Emphasize commitment to academic excellence.Broaden Your Intellectual Horizons• Explore the world from a variety of perspectives, most importantly your own.• Study subjects in greater depth and detail.• Assume the responsibility of reasoning, analyzing, and understanding foryourself.• All AP courses are pending College Board approval.• Students who receive a "3,4 or 5" on an AP exam may receive college levelcredit, or advanced placement, depending on the University.• Savings can add up to $3,000 per course.Page 7Advanced Measure for the Distinguished Achievement Program Diploma• Successful AP course completion and successful AP Examination count asone measure for the DAP. A score of "3,4, or 5" indicates that the student isdoing college-level work.AP Classes Entry/Exit PolicyEntry Procedure: To gain admission into the Advanced Placement Program, allinterested students must confer with their counselor and academic teachers. Anystudent who wishes to enroll in the Advanced Placement courses may do so. Studentsare highly encouraged to take Pre-Advanced Placement during the 9th and 10thgrade, as a prerequisite to AP courses. Students who are enrolled in an AdvancedPlacement class are required to take the Advanced Placement exam.The following are required for AP enrollment:• Student Interest• Parent Approval• Ability to attend required tutoring and required Advanced PlacementAcademy study sessions• Ability to commit time to study for a college level courseExit Procedure: Once enrolled into the Advanced Placement course, an AP studentmay desire to exit. To exit an AP class, a committee established by the principal,will determine exit based on the following:• Student Request• Parent Request• AP Teacher/AP Coordinator/Counselor Input• Teacher/Student/Parent Interview• Space/scheduling availability in a comparable courseInternational Baccalaureate ProgrammeInternational Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme (MYP) at Lamar Academy(grades 9-10)The IB Middle Years Programme, provides a framework of rigorous academicchallenge that encourages students to embrace and understand the connectionsbetween traditional subjects and the real world, and become critical and reflectivethinkers. The programme consists of eight subject groups integrated through fiveareas of interaction that provide a framework for learning within and across thesubjects. The MYP Programme includes a community service component requiringaction and reflection. Students are required to study the following subjects by atrained Middle Years Programme teacher every year:• their mother tongue, (English)• a second language,(Language other than English)• humanities,• sciences,• mathematics,• arts,• physical education,• and technology.In the final year of the programme (grade 10), students also engage in a personalproject, which allows them to demonstrate the understandings and skills they havedeveloped throughout the programme.<strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>ISD</strong>’s Commitment to Advanced Placement Participation• Students enrolled in AP courses are required to participate in the AP exams.


Page 8International Baccalaureate Diploma Programme (DP) at Lamar Academy(grades 11-12)The International Baccalaureate (IB) Diploma Programme enables students toearn an internationally recognized diploma in addition to their regular high schooldiploma. Students are required to complete the following course work in six (6)subject areas:• At least three (3) and not more than (4) of the courses must be at a higherlevel (240 hours of instruction) and,• Three (3) or two (2) of the courses taken at the standard level (150 hours ofinstruction).• Upon completion of the course students are required to take a standardizedexam in each subject. Students can earn from zero to seven (0 - 7) points oneach exam. The student must earn at least 24 points of the possible 42 to earnthe International Baccalaureate Diploma.• Students must also complete a Theory of Knowledge course, and,• Complete 150 hours of creativity, action and, service,(CAS). The IBProgramme requires students to move outside the classroom into the world.Students are required to complete 50 hours of creativity which can beinterpreted as imaginatively as possible to cover a wide range of arts andother activities and to include creativity by the individual student in designingand carrying out service projects. Students are also expected to complete 50hours of action, which can include participation in expeditions, individual andteam sports, and physical training. It can also include carrying out creativeand service projects as well as training for service. Finally, students mustcomplete 50 hours of service. This service may be community or socialservice and can include environmental and international projects.• Complete a 4,000 word Extended Essay. Every IB Diploma candidate mustsubmit an extended essay of at least 4,000 words. The extended essay is an indepthstudy of a limited topic within an IB subject. The purpose is to providecandidates with an opportunity to engage in independent research. Emphasisis placed on the process of engaging in personal research, on thecommunication of ideas and information in a logical and coherent manner,and on the overall presentation of the extended essay in compliance withthese guidelines.• Students receiving a four (4) or better on the exams may be awardedadvanced credit with colleges and universities.IB English III HLIB English IV HLIB Spanish IV SLIB Spanish V HLIB French SLIB Biology SLIB Biology HLIB Chemistry SLIB Chemistry HLIB Physics SLIB Theory of KnowledgeIB Course WorkIB Psychology SLIB Psychology HLIB Math Studies SLIB Mathematics SLIB Mathematics HLIB Visual Arts SL – AIB Visual Arts SL - BIB Visual Arts HLIB Theatre Arts SLIB Theatre Arts HLIB 20th Century World History HLIB Classes Entry/Exit PolicyEntry Procedure: To gain admission into the International BaccalaureateProgrammes, all interested students must complete an application and participate inan interview. The purpose of the application and the interview, is to determine thestudents level of engagement with and commitment to a rigorous course of study.The teachers and staff at the IB programme will conduct the interviews and reviewthe applications. Any student who wishes to apply may do so. Upon completionof the application an IB committee will determine entry based on the following:• Student Application •Writing Sample• Teacher Recommendations •Parental Approval• Personal Interview •Previous Grades• Mathematics Diagnostics InventoryExit Procedure: Once enrolled into the IB Programmes, an IB student maydesire to exit. To exit the IB program, an IB committee will determine exitbased on the following:• Student Request •IB Teacher/Coordinator Input• Parental Request •Teacher/Student/Parent InterviewOnly students admitted to the MYP or DP Programmes will be allowed toenroll in IB classes.Achieve Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> informationAchieve Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> (AECHS) at South Texas College (grades 9-12)is a limited-enrollment high school that offers students the opportunity to become thefirst member of their immediate family to complete a college degree. Establishedin 2008, AECHS provides an opportunity for students to attain an Associate Degree,at no cost, while simultaneously completing their high school DistinguishedAchievement Program (DAP).AECHS is located on the South Texas College Pecan Campus. M<strong>ISD</strong> Studentsaccepted into the school can register and attend. Each year, AECHS recruits 100students from within <strong>McAllen</strong> I.S.D. middle schools who want to embark on thejourney of a lifetime and attain six years of education in four years.What is an Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>?• Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>s must apply to Texas Education Agency (TEA) and bedesignated an Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>.• An Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> (ECHS) blends the traditional high school andcollege into one educational program.• Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>s are small. Only 100 students are admitted asfreshmen each year.• The Achieve Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> of <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>ISD</strong> and South Texas Collegeis a true partnership that beginning in the Fall of 2008 allowed <strong>McAllen</strong> studentsthe opportunity to earn an Associate’s Degree by the time they graduate from highschool. This is the equivalent of 2 years of college—tuition-free.Entry Procedure: All interested students must complete an application process.The application process is open to <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>ISD</strong> 8th grade students. Entry is basedon the following:• Student Interest• Parental Approval• Parent and student attendance to an information meeting• Students complete a 5 part application and submit to their middle schoolcounselor• Personal Interview


• Most current 8th grade core grades and attendance• Successful completion of state assessment• First Generation status• Economically Disadvantaged statusEntry occurs only in the 9th grade. If more students apply than there are availablepositions, a lottery process will be used among the eligible students.Accepted Student Requirements:• Attend a Parent/Student Academic Orientation• Attend a 5 day Summer Bridge Orientation at South Texas College• Complete Summer Reading• Comply with South Texas College admission requirements and Code ofConduct• Comply with <strong>McAllen</strong> I.S.D. registration requirements and Code of ConductExit Procedure: Because Achieve ECHS is a limited-enrollment school and only100 students are selected, it is not recommended that student leave the schoolonce they have made the commitment to enroll.• Student/Parent/AECHS Administrator/Counselor Conference.• South Texas College InputAECHS is focused on college academic readiness and students must devote significantamounts of time to their school work. Designated Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>s areallowed, by TEA, to offer Dual Enrollment classes beginning the freshmen year.ninth and tenth grade students take Dual Enrollment elective classes with STCinstructors and high school Pre-AP core classes with <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>ISD</strong> teachers, housedat South Texas College. In the 11th and 12th grade students, who meet standard(based on ACCUPLACER or THEA) take Dual Enrollment core classes andAssociate Degree requirements in STC classes mixed with college age students. Atthe end of 12th grade, students maintaining the required STC Grade Point Average(GPA) and completing the required degree plan-60 credits are awarded an AssociateDegree. Visit www.SouthTexasCollege.edu graduation requirements and for a listof Associate Degrees. Students completing the Core <strong>Curriculum</strong> (45 credits) areconsidered core complete. Achieve ECHS class rank shall be determined by coreclass grades recorded on the academic achievement record (high school transcript)and calculating a weighted grade point average for each student, as per <strong>McAllen</strong><strong>ISD</strong> Policy. For <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>ISD</strong> Academic Achievement Class Ranking Policy EICLOCAL visit www.mcallenisd.orgAlthough AECHS does not participate in UIL athletics or music activities, studentsare encouraged to participate in extra-curricular activities and interact with city and/or STC intramural leagues. They also have the option of trying out for athletics orfine arts in the zoned comprehensive high school. Students must follow zoned highschool UIL requirements. Participation, however, can not interfere with AchieveECHS or STC classes.Dual Credit/Concurrent EnrollmentDefinition of Dual CreditThe term “dual credit” can be misleading. Dual credit actually refers to anopportunity and agreement through which a student may earn high school coursecredit for successfully completing a college course that covers all the TEKS for anyspecified high school course. The “dual credit” earned includes college credit andhigh school credit for one course. Courses through which a student may earn dualcredit may be taken at the high school or at a college and may be taught by a highschool teacher with appropriate credentials or by regular college faculty. The highPage 9school and college work together to determine appropriate high school credit to beawarded upon successful completion of the course. M<strong>ISD</strong> policy requires studentscommunicate with their counselor prior to taking college courses for “dual credit”.Dual Credit vs. Concurrent EnrollmentConcurrent enrollment means that a high school student is enrolled in and taking oneor more courses at a college. Dual credit may be viewed as a form of concurrentenrollment. Students may earn college credit through concurrent enrollment, butmay only earn high school credit through the dual credit agreement between thehigh school and the college.• Courses offered for dual credit must provide advanced academic instructionthat allows for mastery of the TEKS for the appropriate high school courseand that also goes beyond or into greater depth than those TEKS.• Each high school that offers dual credit must enter into an agreement with theinstitution of higher education to offer the courses. This agreement must beupdated and approved by the governing board of each institution annually.Specific elements of the dual credit partnership must be addressed in theagreement, such as the courses available, student eligibility criteria, classlocation, faculty specifications, course curriculum, grading, assessments andtranscription of credits.ApprovalDual credit students must: (1) have the approval of the high school counselorassigned to them, (2) meet the entrance requirements, and (3) be in Grades 11 or12, or enrolled in the Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. Additionally dual credit studentsmust demonstrate college readiness. Specific eligibility requirement for collegereadiness can be viewed at: http://www.thecb.state.tx.us/>P-16 Initiatives>CollegeReadiness Initiatives.Course Limit<strong>High</strong> school students may not be enrolled in more than two courses for dual credit persemester. Exceptions to this requirement for students with demonstrated outstandingacademic performance and capability (as evidenced by grade point average, ACTor SAT scores, or other assessment indicators) may be approved by the principal ofthe high school and the chief academic officer of the college.Benefits of Dual CreditIf the student completes the course with a 3.0 or higher (B), the course can becounted as an advanced measure for the Distinguished Achievement Program (DAP).Students benefit most from earning dual credit courses that help them meet graduationrequirements established by the State Board of Education.South Texas College Dual Enrollment Academies:Dual Enrollment Engineering AcademyDual Enrollment Medical Science AcademyDual Enrollment Computer Science AcademyThe programs are designed to encourage students into the engineering field, healthcare field, or computer science field. The students can earn an Associate of Sciencedegree in Engineering (70 college credits) Biology (61 college credits) or ComputerScience (61 college credits) by the end of their senior year of high school.OverviewThe academies are a two year-round dual enrollment program designed for 11th and12 grade students. The students apply while in 10th grade.


Page 10Eligibility Requirements• Student must be in grade 11th (Students apply during their 10th grade year.)• Student should be enrolled in the Distinguished Achievement Program (DAP)• Student must have serious interest in pursuing a career in health care,engineering, or computer science.• Student must complete an STC Application for Admission.• Student must complete a DEMSA/DEEA/DECSA application which includeswriting a brief essay.• Student must submit the most current high school transcript• Student must submit passing scores for any of the following: THEA orAccuplacer.Compass, Asset, ACT, SAT.• Student must submit a letter of recommendation from a teacher from eachof the following core areas: English, Math and Science.• Student must submit resume listing high school awards, honors, participationin school organizations, club and community activities.Student CommitmentThe Students must maintain good grades (2.0 GPA) in courses while enrolled in theAcademy program. The students must attend classes regularly and in a timely mannerand be prepared for each class meeting. The students need to exhibit appropriatebehavior, respect and participate in class and among other peers. The students mustattend and participate in all academy curricular activities/meetings.University of Texas - Pan American <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> to University Program(Concurrent Enrollment)College or University Concurrent Enrollment is a process by which a student issimultaneously enrolled in high school and a college/university and is workingtowards attaining college/university credit. <strong>McAllen</strong> Independent <strong>School</strong> District(M<strong>ISD</strong>) working with the University of Texas-Pan American (UTPA) offersopportunities for M<strong>ISD</strong> students to participate in concurrent enrollment. M<strong>ISD</strong> hasa contract with the University of Texas-Pan American that enables M<strong>ISD</strong> secondarystudents to participate in the University’s <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> to University Program. Thisprogram permits high school students to enroll in a college course at UTPA to earncollege credit. Students should schedule a meeting with their high school academiccounselor to discuss concurrent enrollment options and procedures.Student Eligibility RequirementsNew Applicant• A student must be classified as a high school junior or senior on targettowards graduating under the Recommended <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> GraduationProgram or higher.• Classification is based upon completion of credit hours at the school so anapplicant may begin participating as early as the summer immediatelyfollowing their sophomore year.• A student must submit official verification of having met at least one of thefollowing criteria:• Rank in top 10% of graduating class (rank and class size will be used todetermine)• Have a 90 or above grade point average (based on grades in academic coursessuch as English, math, natural sciences, social studies and foreign languages)• Minimum ACT composite of 22 or SAT combined Math and Critical Readingscore of 1030• A student must meet deadlines for Concurrent Enrollment admissionReturning Student• Student must maintain a satisfactory grade (C or better)• Unsatisfactory grades are D, F, WF, DF, I• If last time a class was taken has been more than one year, an updated• Texas Common Application" must be submittedCollege Preparedness and Assessment• The Texas Success Initiative (TSI) is an assessment initiative to determinecollege preparedness. Students must meet TSI requirements prior to attendinga mandatory University orientation.• Students can be exempt from TSI based on scores from one of the followingexams: (Scores subject to change)• Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS)2200 Math and 2200 English Language Arts and 3 Writing• American College Test (ACT) or ACT ResidualComposite of 23 with 19 English and 19 Math• Scholastic Aptitude Test (SAT)Composite (Critical Reading and Math) of 1070 with 500 Critical Reading and500 Math If not exempt, assessment exams may include any of the following:•Texas <strong>High</strong>er Education Assessment (THEA)•Quick THEA•ACCUPLACER•COMPASS•ASSETApplication Registration ProcessAll students must meet with their high school counselor prior to enrolling inConcurrent Enrollment Courses. Not all courses are approved for Dual Credit.Course Restrictions• Upon gaining access to register please note that as a Concurrent Enrollmentstudent, some course restrictions do exist.• You are restricted from taking developmental or remedial courses(Math 1300, Math 1334, Eng 1310, Eng 1320).• You are restricted from taking kinesiology (physical education) and healthcourses.• You are limited to taking no more than two classes (6-8 hours) duringregular terms (Spring and Fall).• During the summer terms you are restricted to no more than six hours.• In addition to Texas Success Initiative (TSI) requirements, academicdepartments may require that you meet additional prerequisites (i.e., examscores, high school courses, college courses) in order to participate inspecific University courses. Course prerequisites can be found in theUniversity Catalog and/or by contacting the respective academicdepartment.• You must make payment arrangements in a timely manner to avoid beingwithdrawn from your classes:• <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> to University Program participants make paymentarrangements through their respective high school and/or school district.• Independent Student Program participants remit payment directly toUTPA at the Office of Payments and Collections.• If you enroll in a course without having met the necessary prerequisite(s)or you do not make payment arrangements accordingly, you placeyourself at risk of being dropped from your course(s).


Page 12ACADEMIC ACHIEVEMENT CLASS RANKINGClass Ranking(Graduating Class of 2002 and thereafter)EIC (Local)Beginning with the class of 2002, class rank shall be determined by weighting gradesrecorded on the academic achievement record (transcript) and calculating a weightedgrade point average for each student. The following weighting system shall apply:Course DesignationInternational Baccalaureate (IB)Advanced Placement (AP)Dual Credit Courses @ Achieve Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>Challenge, Pre-AP/MYP, HonorsCollege Prep (CP)StandardAdditional Weight13 points per semester13 points per semester13 points per semester10 points per semester5 points per semester0 points per semesterOnly the following courses shall be included in determining class rank:1. English I, II, III, IV (or equivalent courses),2. Mathematics (all),3. Science (all),4. World Geography, World History, U.S. History, Government, History of theAmericas IB), 20th Century World History Top-ics (IB), and5. Economics.Other stipulations include:• Grade point averages and class rank shall be calculated at the end of thefreshman, sophomore, and junior years and at the end of the fall semesterof the senior year.• Courses taken in an accredited high school summer program for highschool credit shall carry a “standard” designation in determining gradepoint averages and class rank.• Numerical grades, including failing marks, shall be calculated in gradepoint averages and class rank.• A course taught in a two-period block for one semester as an alternativeto a year-long course shall be counted as two grades.• Core high school courses offered by an accredited school through distancelearning shall be included in calculating GPA and class rank.Class Rank ExceptionsRegardless of a student’s year of entry, rank in class shall be determined by thesystem that applies to the student’s graduating class. In addition, the followingtypes of courses shall notbe included in determining class rank:• Correspondence courses.• <strong>High</strong> school courses taken by middle school students.• Course credit earned through credit by examination with or without priorinstruction.• College and university courses, unless taught by District staff at Districtcampuses.• Courses in which credit has already been earned.• Courses in which credit is earned through the Texas Virtual <strong>School</strong> Network.Transfer StudentsIn the case of students transferring into the District with letter grades, letter gradesshall be converted to numerical grades for purposes of determining grade pointaverages and class rank. Such conversion shall be governed by the following:1. For transcripts that include grade conversion tables, the printed tables shall beused. Unless otherwise specified in a conversion table, the midpoint of a grade rangeshall be designated as the numerical grade and any fraction of one-half or more isrounded to the next whole number.2. If a grade conversion table is not included on a transcript, letter grades shall beconverted to numerical grades using the following scale:A+ = 99 B+ = 89 C+ = 79 D+ = 74A = 95 B = 85 C = 77 D = 72A– = 90 B– = 80 C– = 75 D– = 70F = 69In the case of students transferring into the District with numerical grades, thenumerical grades shall be honored at face value. A student who transfers into theDistrict with higher-level course credits shall receive weighted grades in calculatingthe grade point average, according to provisions in this policy, only if the same orsimilar higher-level course is offered in the District.Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>For a student graduating from the District’s early college high school, all applicabledual credit courses taken at the District’s school on the college campus shall beincluded. When a student who is enrolled at the District’s early college high schooltransfers to another District high school, the student shall be ranked within his orher graduating class in the receiving school, based on a weighted GPA calculated inaccordance with the rules applicable to the regular District high schools.Honor GraduatesThe rank of the top ten percent of each graduating class shall be determined bycalculating grade point averages based on grades earned through the fifth six weeksof the senior year. Averages of fourth and fifth six-week grades shall be weightedusing the grade point scale on page one of this policy. The grade point earned for theaverage of the fourth and fifth six-week grades shall carry half the weight of thoseearned for final grades earned in full semester courses.During the commencement ceremony, the top ten percent are rec-ognized as follows:Top 2 percent of the class – Summa Cum LaudeNext 3 percent of the class – Magna Cum LaudeNext 5 percent of the class – Cum LaudeEarly GraduationStudents graduating at any time other than the end of the school year shall be givena diploma after all graduation requirements are met. Rank in class shall be computedwith that year’s graduating class. Students graduating at any time other than the endof the school year shall not be eligible for valedictorian or salutatorian.Valedictorian/SalutatorianStudents who qualify for honors as valedictorian or salutatorian must have beenenrolled in the same high school in the District for their final four semesters, notincluding summer school.ConductTo qualify to give the valedictorian or salutatorian speech, a student shall nothave engaged in any serious violation, as defined in the Student Code of Conduct,during his or her senior year.


Breaking TiesIn the case of ties occurring at critical points in the ranking, the fol-lowingprocedure shall be used to break the ties:Compute the weighted grade average to a sufficient number of decimal placesuntil the tie is broken. If a tie remains, recalculate weighted core grades fromthe beginning of the junior year through the fifth six weeks of the senior year.The grade points earned for the average of the fourth and fifth six-week gradesshall carry half the weight of those earned for final grades earned in full semestercourses.Exemptions from Final ExaminationsFinal examinations shall be scheduled in all classes taught by the high schools.Grade qualifications, absence standards and the number and type of coursesconsidered for exemption from final examinations vary by grade level;however, high school students (grades 9-12) may qualify for exemptions inone or more classes each semester. A student qualifying for an exemptionmay elect or may be directed by a parent to take a final examination in anycourse.General QualificationsIn determining eligibility for exemptions from final examinations, thefollowing general qualification shall apply:1. In calculating absences (for the purpose of determining exemptions fromfinal examinations), three tardies from a particular class shall constitute anabsence from that class.2. During the school year, students who are assigned to an AlternativeEducational Placement (AEP) for disciplinary reasons shall be ineligible forfinal examination exemptions for the semester(s) they are assigned.3. To retain exemption status, a student otherwise eligible for an exemptionmust report to the class on the day of the scheduled final examination.Core and Elective CoursesFor purposes of this policy, core courses include the following:1. English I, II, III, IV (or equivalent courses)2. Mathematics (All)3. Science (All)4. World Geography, World History, U.S. History, Government, Historyof the Americas (IB), 20th Century World History Topics (IB)5. EconomicsCourses other than those listed as core subjects are considered to beelectives.Page 13Other QualificationsFor each grade level, the chart below includes the number of absences, theminimum grade requirement and the number and type of course (core subjectsand elective classes), and the semester(s) that apply to exemptions.GradeLevelAbsence StandardMinimumGradeNumber andType of Course(s)Semester9 3 absences or fewer 85 1 core 1 elective Fall/Spring10 3 absences or fewer 85 1 core 1 elective Fall/Spring11 3 absences 85 All electives / 1 core Fall11 2 absences or fewer 80 All electives / 1 core Fall11 3 absences 85 All electives / 2 coreor 1 block core11 2 absences or fewer 80 All electives / 2 coreor 1 block coreSpringSpring12 3 absences 85 All courses Fall/Spring12 2 absences or fewer 80 All courses Fall/SpringThe core course selected for exemption by an eligible freshman or sophomorein the spring must be from a subject area other than the one selected in thefall semester.ExceptionsFor exemption purposes, up to four absences per year may be waived forgraduating juniors and seniors, provided that:1. The student is absent for the purpose of attending university/college eventsconnected with scholarships, admission, or orientation; and2. The student furnishes the high school principal with a copy of an invitation/appointment letter from the college or university; and3. The student furnishes the high school principal with written verification ofthe visit(s).Students, who have lost their exemption status due to a death in the immediatefamily or to a hospitalization that required an overnight stay and believeabsences merit consideration, may submit an appeal in writing to the principaland attendance committee.


Page 14Texas ScholarsBeginning with the 8th grade class of 2006-2007 and beyondA Texas Scholar must:• Earn all the credits required by the Recommended <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Programor Distinguished Achievement Program which includes 26 units and fouryears of Math, and Science as well as English and Social Studies. (Refer toGraduation Plans)• Successfully complete two full year high school courses that are eligible forcollege credit. Courses eligible for college credit are:•Advanced Placement (AP) courses•International Baccalaureate (IB) courses•Concurrent Enrollment / Dual Credit Courses•Applicable CTE courses leading to a post-secondary certification• Develop and carryout a “<strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> and Beyond Plan” for their four yearsof high school and transition to college, the workplace, the military, or someother endeavor of their choosing.NOTE: Upon earning credit and meeting all requirements, the student will receivethe Texas Scholar medallion. The requirements for Texas Scholars are subject tochange.TECH PREP OF THE RIO GRANDE VALLEY, INC.TECH PREP TEXAS SCHOLARS PROGRAMFORGRADUATING CLASSES THROUGHTHE CLASS OF 2011 and BEYONDTech Prep Scholar Requirements• Earn all the credits required by the Recommended <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Program orthe Distinguished Achievement Program.• Have at least a four-year plan of study-and preferably a six- or eight-year planof study-that includes, in high school, two or more career and technologycourses for 3 or more credits aligned to a career cluster.• Earn at least two college-level Tech-Prep course as part of the student’s highschool graduation plan. A “college-level Tech Prep course” is:• either an articulated course (local articulation or statewide articulation--ATC)or a dual/concurrent-enrollment course• a course for which the school district and one of our local colleges haveagreed that students can receive college credit as part of a Tech Prepgraduation plan.• Students must have completed a declaration of intent to be a Tech PrepScholar•Note: As of August 2011 College-level Tech Prep courses taught by certifiedteachers meeting state and local articulation standards may satisfy “AdvancedMeasure” requirements for the Distinguished Achievement Program if the studentearns an 80 or better in a course that qualifies for articulated credit. Articulatedcredits must be earned during the students 11th or 12th grade year.GENERAL INFORMATIONGuidelines for requesting courses at a second campusStudents who sign up for a one-hour course at a campus other than their own mustselect an additional one-hour course at that campus in order to comply with the bustransportation requirements.Minimum enrollment in a courseA course with an enrollment of fewer than ten students may be combined with asimilar course, or it may be cancelled.Adding/Dropping a CourseRequests for schedule grade changes will be considered during the beginning of thesemester. Seat availability will be considered before granting a level change.NOTE: Dropping a class may affect UIL eligibility.TranscriptsEvery grade that a student has achieved will appear on the student’s transcript whetherhe/she has lost credit for the course, has failed the course, or has repeated the course.Courses taken at middle school, that are considered for high school credit, will bereflected on the transcript. Once a student is awarded credit, the credit can not beremoved. Students may only be awarded state credit for a single course only once.Transfer of Credits from Accredited <strong>School</strong>sThe District shall accept transfer credits without further validation only from schoolsthat are accredited by a regional or state accrediting agency.Transfer Credit from Unaccredited, Non-Public, Out of State or Out ofCountry <strong>School</strong>sStudents from non-public, out of state, out-of-country schools may have transcriptsthat record letter grades or that indicate awarded credit for courses with gradeslower than the Texas passing standard of 70. These transcripts may also indicateawarded credit for courses that do not exactly correlate with a Texas course title.When a student transfers after a semester or full year is completed, the receivingdistrict must honor credits already awarded by the sending Texas public district orcharter(19 TAC §74.26(a) (1)). In the case of students transferring into the Districtwith letter grades, letter grades shall be converted to numerical grades for purposesof determining grade point averages and class rank.To validate credits earned through an unaccredited school, either public, private, orforeign-based, the District shall administer credit by examinations or establish creditsearned through scholarship performance in trial grades and course assignments.“Credentialing”, is used primarily for validating credits in language other thanEnglish. If a transcript shows that a foreign student studies his/her native language,the campus may apply these credits towards the Languages other than Englishrequirements.Validated credits from unaccredited schools are not used in determining the rank.Transfer Credit Military StudentIf a military student transfers at the beginning or during his or her senior year, andis ineligible to graduate, after all alternatives have been considered, the sending andreceiving local education agencies are required to ensure the receipt of a diploma fromthe sending local education agency, if the student meets the graduation requirementsof the sending local education agency.Transfer Credit from a Home <strong>School</strong>Transferring home-schooled students are afforded the same treatment as studentstransferring from unaccredited private schools. Awarding of credit for coursestaken will be determined by the campus reviewing the curriculum and/or work ofthe student or by using credit by examination.


Loss of CreditA student who has a semester attendance lower than 90% in any class may appealfor credit. Regardless of whether or not the attendance committee decides to awardcredit, the grade earned will be posted on the student’s transcript.UIL AcademicsStudent are encouraged to participate in one or more of many UIL events offered ateach of our campuses. Students may select from many events such as Accounting,Calculator, Number Sense, Journalism, One-Act Play, Current Events, Speech/Debate, Literary Criticism, Science, Computer Applications and others.UIL Eligibility for Academics or SportsStudents who are participating in extracurricular activities or UIL events must passall subjects in order to be eligible. As per board policy FM Local, a student enrolledin advanced courses may request a waiver.Audit ProceduresStudents must request permission to audit a course in writing to the principal. Thisrequest must be approved prior to the students’ official first day of school.Academic GradingThe District operates on a semester basis and will adhere to Texas Education Agencystandards in relation to curriculum offerings, sequence of courses, and amount oftime of instruction for each subject. The school year is divided into two 18-weeksemesters. Semesters are divided into three periods of six weeks each for purposesof grades and reports. At the end of each six-week period, students will receivereport cards.A - 90 - 100B - 80 - 89C - 75 - 79D - 70 - 74F - Below 70I - IncompleteNG - No GradeCredit Requirement for Grade Classification and for Graduating incomingfreshmen 2007-2008 and there after:Freshman (9) 0-5.5 creditsSophomore (10)6.0-12.5 creditsJunior (11)13.0-19.5 creditsSenior (12)20.0-26.0 creditsCredits required for graduation = 26Testing Requirements for <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Graduation in TexasTo receive a high school diploma, a student must complete the required curriculumand also pass a series of exit- level state assessments. Alternative exit levelassessments may be administered is students meet specific requirements as outlinedby special education services. Students entering the ninth (9th) grade in 2001-2002and thereafter must master the exit level TAKS (Texas Assessment of Knowledgeand Skills) in English language arts, mathematics, science and social studies duringtheir junior year, in addition to completing course / credit requirements.NATIONAL MERIT SCHOLARSHIP PROGRAMPage 15Taking the PSAT/NMSQT gives students the opportunity to participate in the NationalMerit Scholarship Program. Students using this test to qualify for scholarships takeit in their junior year during the month of October.COLLEGE ENTRANCE EXAMSSAT/ACTAdmissions tests are required for most colleges. Check their website for specifictesting requirements. The SAT and ACT booklets are available in the Go Center.Online registration is preferred. See your College Specialist for more informationon test fee waivers. Special situations or circumstances, such as physical disabilitieslearning disabilities, religious beliefs are addressed on the testing agency’s website.SAT www.collegeboard.comACT www.actstudent.orgTHEATexas Success Initiative (TSI) requires students to be assessed in Reading, Writingand Math skills prior to enrolling in college. College and universities determinethe best path for students to become college ready and to demonstrate that they areindeed ready for college level courses. The college admission office determines ifthe student is exempt or if an additional test such as THEA, Accuplacer, or Compassis required.ADVANCED PLACEMENT PROGRAM / COLLEGE CREDITThe Advanced Placement (AP) Program gives students the opportunity to pursuecollege-level studies while still in high school. The AP examinations must be orderedin advance (March) and are administered in May. Depending on their scores andon the policy of the individual college, students may receive college credit uponentering college.AP exams are available to everyone interested in taking them. Students do not needto be enrolled in AP courses to register for AP exams. Students in AP courses areexpected to take the AP tests. Administrative policy requires those students enrolledin AP Courses take the AP test.SCHOLARSHIPS AND FINANCIAL AIDScholarships from various sources are available to students on the basis of academicachievement, test scores, financial need, character, and citizenship. Most scholarshipsemphasize merit and/or need. Early each school year, seniors are urged to contacttheir College Specialist regarding available scholarships, application proceduresand documents needed, etc.In addition, seniors need to contact the college offices of financial aid for informationregarding scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study programs handled by theindividual institutions.Meeting deadlines is primarily the responsibility of the students and is of utmostimportance* STAAR exams will be given beginning 2011-<strong>2012</strong>.


Page 16UIL ACADEMIC CONTESTSThe University Interscholastic League offersa wide variety of academic contests for highschool students, encompassing many elements ofrequired high school coursework.. These contestsbuild upon the academic skills developed in theclassroom and offer students an opportunityto stretch their talents above and beyond thoserequirements. The complete rules for each contestare contained in the UIL Constitution and ContestRules, which is updated every year and posted onthe UIL web site at: http://www.uiltexas.org/The following is a list of the UIL events availableto students. Each high school may offer severalevents based on student demand. Students shouldnotify their counselor or assistant principal oftheir interest to participate in one or more events.AccountingMaybe you’re on your way to becoming a CPA oryou just really know how to take care of money.Make a stop at this contest and pick up a few skillsin bookkeeping, balancing and banking before youtake one of the Big Five accounting firms by storm.The contest focuses on the elementary principlesand practices of accounting for sole proprietorship,partnerships and corporations, and includesbookkeeping terminology, the work sheet withadjustments, income statement, balance sheet,trial balance, account classification, journalizing,posting, bank reconciliation, payroll and other itemsrelated to the basic accounting cycle.Calculator ApplicationsCalculate this: Add your math skills to a collegeapplication, standardized test or resume, andsuccess might just be the result. Math is powerin today’s job market, so multiply your potentialby trying out this problem-solving contest. Thecontest includes calculations involving addition,subtraction, multiplication, division, roots,powers, exponentiation, logarithms, trigonometricfunctions, and inverse trigonometric functions. Inaddition to straightforward calculation problems,the contest includes geometric and stated problemssimilar to those found in algebra, geometry andtrigonometry textbooks, previous contests andLeague materials related to the contest.Computer ApplicationsFor the ‘tech’ generation: Become technologicallysavvy while testing your word processing, databaseand spreadsheet skills. You’ll become familiar with thefiner points of computer skills such as formatting copy,editing, creating charts and integrating applications.Computer Applications focuses on word processingspeed and accuracy, computer skills in database andspreadsheet, and integration of applications. Skillstested include formatting copy, mail merge, headers/footers, editing, proofreading, spreadsheet, graphs/charts, and integration of all applications.Computer ScienceBill Gates used to program computers in his sparetime, and apparently he did something right. Getyour start in computer science by learning the detailsof Java Programming , and try your hand at writingsome programs of your own. The Computer ScienceContest challenges high school students to gain anunderstanding of the significance of computationas well as the details of Java programming, to bealert to new technology and information, to gain anunderstanding of the basic principles of computerscience, and to give students a start in one of themost important fields of the Information Age.Current Issues & EventsYou’ll go around the world in 40 multiple-choicequestions as you test your knowledge on current state,national and global events. Watching news showswill pay off when you answer the essay question atthe end and take a closer look at one current event.The contest focuses on a basic knowledge of currentstate, national and world events and issues. Thecontest consists of 40 multiple-choice questions andan essay that challenges students to understand notjust what is happening in the world today, but whyand how it’s happening and what it means to us ascitizens of the United States.Editorial WritingHave you ever won a medal for simply writing downyour opinion in an organized way? In editorial writing,you’ll take a stand on a controversial school issue andback up your stance with facts and examples. Thiscontest teaches students to read critically, to digestand prioritize information quickly and to writeclearly, accurately and succinctly. Emphasis is placedon mechanical and stylistic precision, lead writing,use of direct and indirect quotes, news judgment,and the ability to think deeply, to compare andcontrast and to argue of defend a point of viewpersuasively.Feature WritingIf you’ve got a knack for developing a story, thiscontest is for you. You’ll be provided with the factsand quotes you need, and then it’s up to you to piecetogether a journalistic feature story your readers willremember. The Feature Writing Contest teachesstudents to read critically, to digest and prioritizeinformation quickly, and to write clearly, accuratelyand succinctly. Emphasis is placed on the samewriting skills as in other UIL journalism contests, aswell as the ability to write descriptively.Social StudiesIf your interest lies in movements, wars, history andpolitics, this contest will give you more than enoughmaterial to explore. The contest requires you to applyyou understanding of history and culture throughmultiple-choice questions and an essay. The SocialStudies Contest requires students to expand andapply their knowledge of governmental systems;historical trends, movements and eras; and thephysical setting of the earth, particularly as it appliesto cultural environments. Each year the contestfocuses on a selected topic area, and a reading listis provided.Spelling & VocabularyWhether you’ve already aced the SAT verbal sectionor you could use some extra practice, this contestkeeps you focused on the details. By the end, you maybe correcting your teachers’ spelling and using wordsyour coach has never heard. Spelling & Vocabularypromotes precise and effective use of words. Thethree part contest consists of multiple-choicequestions covering proofreading and vocabulary,and words that are written from dictation. Thevocabulary-building and spelling components ofthe contest are important complements to the highschool academic curriculum and are indicative ofvocabulary words contained on standardized testssuch as SAT, PSAT and ACT.CX DebateIf you’ve never shied away from an argument andyou have a zest for winning, give Cross-ExaminationDebate a try. As part of a two-person team, you willprepare your stance on a particular policy in advanceand then face a opposing team in competition. You’llhave to think on your feet to defend your ideas. Cross-Examination Debate trains students to analyze aproblem, conduct thorough and relevant research,and utilize principles of argumentation and advocacyin presenting the most effective case for or againsta given proposition. Debate provides invaluabletraining in critical thinking, quick responses,defending worthy ideas and attacking invalid ideas.It teaches students to tolerate other points of view.Debate exists only in democratic societies, and nodemocratic society can exist without debate.Lincoln-Douglas DebateIn this one-on-one values debate, you’ll prepareto argue for and against a given resolution. Afterresearching the topic in advance, it will be up to you tomake arguments that defend your point of view anddebunk invalid claims from your opponent. Lincoln-Douglas Debate provides excellent training fordevelopment of skills in argumentation, persuasion,research and audience analysis. Through thiscontest, students are encouraged to develop a directand communicative style of delivery. Lincoln-Douglas debate is a one-on one argumentationin which debaters attempt to convince the judgeof the acceptability of their side of a proposition.One debater will argue the affirmative side of theresolution and the other will argue the negative sideof the resolution in a given round.Informative SpeakingThis contest is all about watching the clock andknowing your material. You’ll draw a current eventand have 30 minutes to comb through files you’vecollected throughout the year. Then you’ll present aspeech that informs your audience on all aspects ofthe current event you’ve researched. The purposeof informative speaking is to stimulate an activeinterest in current affairs at the state, national, andinternational levels, and to teach the student topresent extemporaneously in a clear and impartialmanner the facts about a subject as they appear in thebest available sources of information. This contestis an exercise in clear thinking and informing thepublic on the issues and concerns of the Americanpeople. The objective is to present information in aninteresting way, and an attempt should not be madeto change the listener’s mind beyond presenting theinformation.Persuasive SpeakingSimilar to informative speaking, in this contest youhave 30 minutes to review your research files on aparticular current event and come to a conclusion toargue about that topic. The goal of your speech is notjust to present relevant information, but to convinceyour audience that your position is solid. This contesttrains students to analyze a current issue, determinea point of view, and organize and deliver a speechthat seeks to persuade listeners. The objective is toreinforce the views of listeners who already believeas the speaker does, but even more so, to bring thoseof neutral or opposing views around to the speaker’sbeliefs or proposed course of action. This contestshould especially appeal to those who have a strongargumentative urge and who wish to advocatereforms or outline solutions to current problems.Poetry InterpretationIn poetry interpretation, you’ll chose a selectionthat fits in the given category to present to anaudience. This contest emphasizes literary analysisthrough expressive oral reading. The purpose of thiscontest is to encourage the student to understand,experience and share poetry through the art oforal interpretation. The goals of this contest are toencourage the contestant’s exploration of a variety ofliterary selections, and to enhance the performer’sand audience’s appreciation of literature through theperformer’s interpretation of the work.Prose InterpretationThose with a flare for expressive oral reading havea chance to combine their passions in this event.You’ll select a piece of prose in a given category, thencarefully explore the art of expressing it orally beforean audience. This contest encourages the studentto understand, experience, and share prose worksthrough the art of oral interpretation. It encouragesthe contestant’s exploration of a variety of literaryselections and enhances the performer’s andaudiences appreciation of literature through theperformer’s interpretation of the work.One-Act PlayBefore you may pack up your bags and shuffle off toBroadway, try out the League’s One-Act Play contest.You’ll have the chance to work with other actors andpeople interested in technical theatre at your school toproduce a theatrical production. You’ll get a chanceto take your show on the road and compete againstother schools and you might just make it to the statecompetition. Many of Texas’ best theatre and filmprofessionals participated in this contest while inhigh school. The aims of the One-Act Play Contestare to satisfy the competitive, artistic spirit withfriendly rivalry among schools, emphasizing highquality performance in this creative art; to fosterappreciation of good active, good directing and gooftheatre; to promote interest in that art form mostreadily usable in leisure time during adult life; tolearn to lose or win graciously; and to increase thenumber of schools which have adopted theatre artsas an academic subject in school curricula.Texas Interscholastic League FoundationScholarshipsThe Texas Interscholastic league Foundation hasfunded over $20 million in scholarships to morethan 15,000 students since 1954. The TILF waschartered in 1959 and will soon be celebrating its50th Anniversary. For the past several years thefoundation has disbursed over $1 million each yearto students who have earned eligibility by competingin the UIL Academic State Meet. Students may applyfor TILF scholarships the year they are graduatingfrom high school, but may earn eligibility anyof their high school years. Scholarship valuesrange from $500 for one year only, up to $15,200payable over four years. Applications are acceptedApril 1st through the Tuesday following the UILAcademic State Meet. Current and updated web siteinformation should be available beginning March1 of each year. Approximately 50% of applicantsreceive a scholarship. Students may acquireapplications and information on the UIL web site at:http://www.uiltexas.org/


ENGLISHIt is the policy of <strong>McAllen</strong> I.S.D. not to discriminate on the basisof sex, handicap, race, color or national origin in its educational orcareer and technology program activities or employment as requiredby Title IX, Section 504 and Title VI. The district will take stepsto insure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrierto admission or participation in any educational or career andtechnology program.1002/1004/1006 HIGH INTENSIVE LANGUAGEDEVELOPMENT (HILD) PROGRAMLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1 Reading I and 1 Practical Writing SkillsRank: NoneThis course is designed for recent immigrant students who have beenassigned to this class based on limited-to-nonexistent levels of Englishlanguage proficiency. Emphasis is placed on intensive English languagedevelopment which enables students to develop competence in oraland written communication. The course offers instruction in wordrecognition as well as comprehension strategies and vocabulary skillsto ensure that students have an opportunity to read with competence,confidence and understanding.1012 ENGLISH 1 FOR SPEAKERS OFOTHER LANGUAGES SDLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: English 1 SOLRank: StandardThis course is designed for students who have completed a maximum ofone year in a high intensive language development program or for recentimmigrant students who, upon entry, scored at the intermediate level onthe placement test. Students enrolled in English 1 for Speakers of OtherLanguages continue to increase and refine their communication skills.They are expected to plan, draft and complete written compositions ona regular basis.1014 READING FOR SPEAKERS OF OTHERLANGUAGESLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1 Elective CreditRank: NoneThis course is designed for students who have completed a maximumof one year in a high intensive language development program or forrecent immigrant students who, upon entry, scored on the intermediatelevel on the placement test. The emphasis of this course is to developcompetency in reading skills. Instruction focuses on increasing students’use of appropriate reading strategies by providing opportunities to readfor a variety of purposes.1052-1056 READING/DLABLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 to 3 Elective Credit(s)Rank: NoneThis course is offered in a computer lab setting. The M<strong>ISD</strong> dyslexiaprogram serves students identified with dyslexia characteristics.Students who are served earn a Reading Improvement state electivecredit.1062-1066 Reading Level 1-3Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 to 3 elective credit(s)Rank: NoneThis course is designed to assist the struggling high school reader inreading strategies, different texts and comprehension.1112 ENGLISH 1 SDLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: StandardThis course is designed to include an intensive and comprehensivegrammar review, vocabulary development, reading comprehension,composition and literature. Students are required to write compositionsutilizing reflective, persuasive, descriptive, narrative, and expositorytechniques. Reading and writing assignments are integrated usingvisual representations, narratives and expository selections. The studyof literature includes novels, a Shakespearean play, short stories,poetry, mythology, biography and the essay. Individual oral and writtenpresentations are required.1122 ENGLISH 1 CPLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: College PreparatoryThis course is designed to include a grammar review, vocabularydevelopment, reading comprehension, composition and literature.Students are required to write compositions utilizing reflective,persuasive, descriptive, narrative, and expository techniques. Readingand writing assignments are integrated using visual representations,narratives and expository selections. The study of literature includesnovels, a Shakespearean play, short stories, poetry, mythology, biographyand the essay. Individual oral and written presentations are required.Students are expected to participate in outside reading assignments.1132 ENGLISH 1 Pre-APLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: Pre-APThis course is designed to challenge the abilities and meet the needsof academically talented college-bound students. The purpose of theprogram is to provide accelerated study in all aspects of English. Thecourse emphasizes the study of composition, grammar, vocabularydevelopment, skills critical reading and analysis in both ancient andcontemporary literature. Literature as a reflection of history and cultureis stressed. Students are expected to participate prior to enrollmentin considerable outside reading including assigned summer readingsand literary analysis.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.1152 MYP English 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 1st yearLanguage A requirement for the IB MYP certificate, as well as theEnglish 1 requirement of the state of Texas. This course includes thestudy of language acquisition in context; the writing process; group andindividual oral activities; a wide range of literary,non-literary and visual materials; information technology; and linguisticand literary terminology. These topics are focused through five areas ofinteraction. This course prepares students for the IB Diploma program.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.1212 ENGLISH 2 SDLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 1Rank: StandardThis course is designed to include an intensive review of grammar andan in-depth study of vocabulary, reading comprehension, compositionand world literature. Reading and writing assignments are integratedusing visual representations, narratives, and expository selections.Emphasis is placed on the writing process with the ultimate goal beingthe students’ ability to write cohesive multi-paragraph essays employingan appropriate sense of style and voice. Students are introduced to thefundamentals of research writing with reinforcement of dictionary andlibrary skills. The study of literature includes short stories, fiction,nonfiction, poetry, drama, essays, biographies, legends, a Shakespeareanplay and novels. There is emphasis on the higher level thinking skillsof comprehension, analysis, synthesis and decision making. Studentsparticipate in class discussions and oral presentations.Page 171222 ENGLISH 2 CPLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 1Rank: College PreparatoryThis course is designed to include an intensive review of grammar,reading comprehension, and an in-depth study of composition andworld literature. Reading and writing assignments are integratedusing visual representations, narratives, and expository selections.Emphasis is placed on the writing process with the ultimate goalbeing the students’ ability to write cohesive multi-paragraph essaysemploying an appropriate sense of style and voice. Students areintroduced to the fundamentals of research writing with reinforcementof dictionary and library skills. The study of literature includes shortstories, fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, essays, biographies legends.There is emphasis on the higher level thinking skills of comprehension,analysis, synthesis and decision making. Students participate in classdiscussions and oral presentations. Students are expected to participatein outside reading assignments.1232 ENGLISH 2 Pre-APLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 1Rank: Pre-APThis course is designed to accommodate the college-bound studentswho want an accelerated course. Emphasis is placed on all types ofcomposition, SAT and research skills. Strong writing skills are essentialfor success in this course. An in-depth look at stylistic devices of eachof the authors is required of each student. The student is expected toparticipate in class discussions and oral presentations. Students areexpected to participate in considerable outside reading includingassigned summer readings and literary analysis. NOTE: Thisadvanced course also serves the identified gifted/talented student.1252 MYP English 2Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 2nd yearLanguage A requirement for the IB MYP certificate, as well as theEnglish 2 requirement of the state of Texas. This course includes thestudy of language acquisition in context; the writing process; groupand individual oral activities; a wide range of literary, non-literary andvisual materials; information technology; and linguistic and literaryterminology. These topics are focused through five areas of interaction.This course prepares students for the IB Diploma program. NOTE:This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talented student.1312 ENGLISH 3 SDLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 2Rank: StandardThis course is designed to include a study of grammar, vocabulary,reading comprehension, composition and American literature.Reading and writing assignments are integrated using visualrepresentations, narratives, and expository selections. Emphasis isplaced on the writing process with the ultimate goal being the students’ability to write cohesive multi-paragraph essays, business letters,reports and resumes. Students also learn the skills needed for writingresearch papers and are required to complete and submit a researchpaper following MLA guidelines. Course work includes selections fromAmerican and world literature. The study of literature includes shortstories, fiction, non-fiction, poetry, drama, essays, biographies, legends,and novels. There is emphasis on understanding and interpretinghistorical influences to literary content. Students participate in classdiscussions and oral presentations.


Page 181322 ENGLISH 3 CPLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 2Rank: College PreparatoryThis course is designed to include a review of grammar, in-depthvocabulary, test taking strategies for college entrance exams, readingcomprehension, composition and American literature. Reading andwriting assignments are integrated using visual representations,narratives, and expository selections. Emphasis is placed on thewriting process with the ultimate goal being the students’ ability towrite cohesive multi-paragraph essays, business letters, reports andresumes. Students also learn the skills needed for writing researchpapers and are required to complete and submit a research paperfollowing MLA guidelines. Course work includes survey of Americanand world literature. The study of literature includes short stories,fiction, nonfiction, poetry, drama, essays, biographies, legends, andnovels. There is emphasis on understanding and interpreting historicalinfluences to literary content. Students participate in class discussions,group presentation and individual projects. Students are expected toparticipate in outside reading assignments.1352 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)ENGLISH LANGUAGE AND COMPOSITIONLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 2Rank: APThis course is designed as a college-level course which will preparestudents to take the English Language and Composition AdvancedPlacement Examination. A good performance on this exam maysecure college credit and/or advanced placement in college. Studentswill study selections of prose and expository writing from Americanand world literature as models of effective styles and sources for avariety of writing assignments, including research assignments. Theunderstanding of the elements of effective writing will enable studentsto become effective writers through the use of the semantic, structuraland rhetorical resources of language. Students will also do extensiveliterary and critical analysis with a variety of literary selections. Studentsare expected to do considerable outside readings including assignedsummer reading. Students are required to take the AP Exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.1355 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)ENGLISH III HLLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: IBThis one-year course is designed to meet the 1 st year Language A-1higher level requirement for the IB Diploma, as well as the English3 requirement of the state of Texas. Students are required to takean international standardized exam upon completion of this course.Language A-1 is the study of English through the in-depth analysis ofliterary works of an international flavor – works either in translationor written in English – as well as an in-depth study of units based onfifteen literary works, either in translation or in English of variousliterary genres, periods, and styles. This course includes the study ofworld literature in translation and the school’s free choice. Studentsare required to complete a comparative World Literature paper and tocomplete an oral presentation that is internally assessed and externallymoderated.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.1412 ENGLISH 4 SDLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 3Rank: StandardThis course is designed to increase and refine communication skills.Students are expected to plan, draft and complete written compositionson a regular basis. Students edit their papers for clarity engaginglanguage, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanics ofwritten English and produce final error-free drafts. Grammar instructionis presented as an aid for the writing process. Students are expectedto write in a variety of forms including business, personal, literary,and persuasive texts. Students read extensively in multiple genresfrom British literature and other world literature. Periods from Britishliterature may include the old English period, medieval period, Englishrenaissance, 17 th century, 18 th century romantic period, Victorian period,and modern and post- modern period. Students learn literary formsand terms associated with the selections being read. A research paperis required. Speaking and listening assignments are integrated with theselections of world and British literature. Students participate in classdiscussions and oral presentations.1422 ENGLISH 4 CPLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 3Rank: College PreparatoryThis course is designed to increase and refine communication skills.Students are expected to plan, draft and complete written compositionson a regular basis. Students edit their papers for clarity engaginglanguage, and the correct use of the conventions and mechanicsof written English and produce final error-free drafts. Grammarinstruction is presented as an aid for the writing process. Students areexpected to write in a variety of forms including business, personal,literary, and persuasive texts. Students read extensively in multiplegenres from British literature and other world literature. Periods fromBritish literature may include the old English period, medieval period,English renaissance, 17 th century, 18 th century romantic period, Victorianperiod, and modern and post- modern period. Students learn literaryforms and terms associated with the selections being read. The courseis also designed to include a review of grammar, in-depth vocabulary,verbal skills, and test taking strategies for college entrance exams. Aresearch paper is required. Speaking and listening assignments areintegrated with the study of world literature with an emphasis on asurvey of British literature and culture from the Anglo-Saxon Periodthrough the twentieth century. Students are expected to participate inconsiderable outside reading assignments. Students participate in classdiscussions group presentations and individual projects.1452 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) ENGLISHLITERATURE AND COMPOSITIONLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 3Rank: APThis course is designed as a college-level course which will preparestudents to take the English Literature and Composition AdvancedPlacement Exam. A good performance on this exam may secure acollege credit and/or advanced placement in college. Students willstudy selections of prose and poetry from world literature withan emphasis on British literature as sources for a variety of writingassignments including research assignments. Students will alsodo extensive literary and critical analysis with a variety of literaryselections. Students are expected to do considerable outside readingincluding assigned summer reading. Students are required to takethe AP Exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.1455 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)ENGLISH IV HLLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: English 1355This one-year course is designed to meet the 2 nd -year Language A-1higher level requirement for the IB Diploma, as well as the English4 requirement of the state of Texas. Students are required to takean international standardized exam upon completion of this course.Language A-1 is the study of English through the in-depth analysis ofliterary works of an international flavor – works either in translationor written in English – as well as the study of the technical qualities ofboth the language and the literature. The literary focus is an in-depthstudy of units based on fifteen literary works, either in translation orin English of various literary genres, periods, and styles. This courseincludes a detailed study and the Art of the Drama. Students are requiredto complete a World Literature paper chosen from a comparative study,detailed study, or creative study and to complete an oral commentarythat is internally assessed and externally moderated. College credit maybe granted for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.4502 ADVANCED STUDIESLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed as an elective course where students conductin-depth research, prepare an approved product of professional qualityand present their findings on appropriate to audience. Students who arepursuing the Distinguished Achievement Program or the InternationalBaccalaureate diploma may take this course to earn state credit fordeveloping, researching and presenting their findings.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted talentedstudent.MATH2007/2110 ALGEBRA 1 ESLLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Concurrent enrolled in HILD or Eng. 1 SOLRank: College PreparatoryThis course incorporates the study of basic algebraic language. Itstresses both the structure and the development of theoretical and realworld problem solving. Knowledge of operations and properties ofreal numbers are reviewed. The course includes topics such as order ofoperations, solving two and three step equations, inequalities operationswith polynomials, graphing relations, factoring and linear, quadratic andexponential functions. The TEKS include the use of technology andalgebraic applications for geometry. This course is taught using ESLmethodologies. This course includes the use of graphing calculatortechnology.2122/2007 ALGEBRA 1 CPLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: College PreparatoryThis course incorporates the study of the basic algebraic language. Itstresses both the structure and the development of theoretical and realworldproblem solving. Knowledge of operations and properties ofreal numbers are reviewed. This course includes such topics as orderof operations, solving two-and -three step equations and inequalities,operations with polynomials, graphing relations , factoring and linear,quadratic and exponential functions. The TEKS include the use oftechnology and algebraic applications for geometry. This course includesthe use of graphing calculator technology.2132/2007 ALGEBRA 1 PRE-APLowest Grade Placement: 9th Grade OnlyCredit: 1Rank: Pre-APThis course incorporates the study of the basic algebraic language. Itstresses both the structure and the development of theoretical and realworldproblem solving. Knowledge of operations and properties ofreal numbers are expected. This course includes such topics as orderof operations, solving two-and -three step equations and inequalities,operations with polynomials, graphing relation, factoring and linearquadratic and exponential functions. In addition, this course providesfor expansion, acceleration and an in-depth study of algebra. Enrichmenttopics and in-depth study incorporates Pre-AP expectations to make thiscourse challenging for those students who are mathematically talented.The TEKS are expanded to include the use of technology and algebraicapplications for geometry and trigonometry, to establish a foundation,for Pre-Calculus Pre-AP. This course includes the use of graphingcalculator technology. NOTE: This advanced course also serves theidentified gifted/talented student.


2152 MYP Algebra 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 1st yearMathematics requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as theAlgebra 1 requirement of the state of Texas. This course includes thestudy of number concepts and skills as well as algebra concepts andskills. These topics are focused through five areas of interaction. Thiscourse prepares students for the IB Diploma Program. NOTE: Thisadvanced course also serves the identified gifted/talented student.2222 GEOMETRY CPLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Algebra 1Rank: College PreparatoryThis course provides for the study of geometric figures such astriangles, parallelograms, circles and spheres. Students are taught to seerelationships between geometric figures and apply their knowledge infuture courses as well as other fields such as architecture, engineeringand astronomy, etc. Algebraic skills are integrated as algebraic methodsapplied to solving problems in geometry. This course includes the useof graphing calculator technology.2232 GEOMETRY Pre-APLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Algebra 1Rank: Pre-APThis course provides content similar to that offered in the GeometryCollege Prep course. The TEKS are extended to provide a foundation forAlgebra II . Enrichment topics and in-depth study incorporates Pre-APexpectations to make this course challenging for those students who aremathematically talented. Among the enrichment topics introduced arelogic (valid and invalid deductions), indirect proofs, transformationalgeometry, vector geometry and non-Euclidean geometry, which helps toestablish a foundation for later understanding of Calculus (AP) concepts.This course includes the use of graphing calculator technology. NOTE:This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talented student.2252 MYP GeometryLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 1st or 2nd yearMathematics requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as theGeometry requirement for the state of Texas. This course enhancesspatial awareness and gives insights into the realms of construction andnavigation and includes transformation geometry, fractal geometry, non-Euclidean geometry as well as Euclidean geometry. These topics arefocused through five areas of interaction. This course prepares studentsfor the IB Diploma Program. NOTE: This advanced course serves theidentified gifted/talented student.2322 ALGEBRA 2 CPLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Algebra 1Recommendation: GeometryRank: College PreparatoryThis course offers a review of Algebra I but the main focus will beon graphing, solving and the applications of functions (includingquadratic, linear, exponential, radical, rational and logarithmic) throughtransformations. You will also work with complex numbers, conics,and inequalities. Geometry is strongly recommended before takingAlgebra 2. The course is intended to prepare you for Pre-Calculus CP.This course includes the use of graphing calculator technology.2332 ALGEBRA 2 Pre-APLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Algebra 1Recommendation: GeometryRank: Pre-AP/Challenge (GT)This course helps to establish a foundation for later understanding ofCalculus concepts. Structured around the framework of Algebra 2, thiscourse exposes students to a variety of enrichment activities to furtherenhance their knowledge of the structure of mathematics. Emphasisis on mathematical models for real world situations throughout theyear. Among enrichment topics to be introduced are the complexnumber system, matrices and their use in linear programming, higherdegree functions, probability and functions of a random variableand trigonometry functions. Geometry recommended before takingAlgebra 2. The TEKS are extended to prepare students for criticalthinking assessments as well as Pre-Calculus Pre-AP. This courseincludes the use of graphing calculator technology. NOTE: Thisadvanced course also serves the identified gifted/talented student.2352 MYP Algebra 2Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 2nd yearMathematics requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as theAlgebra 2 requirement of the state of Texas. This course includes thestudy of number concepts and skills, algebra concepts and skills, andstatistics and probability concepts and skills. These topics are focusedthrough five areas of interaction. This course prepares students for the IBDiploma Program. NOTE: This advanced course serves the identifiedgifted/talented student2422 PRE-CALCULUS CPLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra 2Rank: College PreparatoryThis course combines elementary analysis and trigonometry.Technology will be used to investigate the nature of the graphs ofpolynomials, rational, trigonometric, exponential and logarithmicfunctions. This course will also include trigonometric equations,vector and parametric equations and their applications, conics (includingparabola, ellipse, circle and hyperbolas) and complex numbers,sequences and series. The TEKS are extended to prepare students forcritical thinking assessments. This course includes the use of graphingcalculator technology.2432 PRE-CALCULUS Pre-APLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Geometry and Algebra 2Rank: Pre-APThis course combines trigonometry, elementary analysis andanalytical geometry into a one-year course. It is intended for studentswho are preparing themselves for upper level math courses ingeneral and specifically in calculus. The TEKS include polynomialfunctions (trigonometric, exponential and logarithmic), polarcoordinates, sequences and series, linear and quadratic functions,conics, (including parabola, ellipse, circle and hyperbola); and inversefunctions. Enrichment topics and in-depth study incorporates Pre-APexpectations to make this course challenging for those students whoare mathematically talented. This course includes the use of graphingcalculator technology. The TEKS are extended to prepare students forcritical thinking assessments.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.Page 192455 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)MATH STUDIES SLLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: IBThis one-year course is designed to meet the Mathematics standard levelrequirement for the IB Diploma. This course is designed to provide thestudent with a challenging curriculum that prepares them to understandand solve real world problems in an international setting. The emphasisin the course is the study of number concepts, functions, and theirinverses, sets and logic, statistics and probability, financial mathematics,and an introduction to differential calculus. Students are requiredto spend 25 hours completing a written work of 2000 words based onpersonal research involving the collection, analysis and evaluation ofdata. This course prepares students to take the Math Studies StandardLevel IB exam. College credit may be granted for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.2522 INDEPENDENT STUDY/BUSINESS CALCULUS CPLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Precalculus CP or Pre-APRank: College PreparatoryThis course, intended for students in the five-year math program,prepares students for college Calculus I and placement testsadministered at different universities. Among topics included areconcepts associated with the limit of a function, concepts and skillsassociated with the derivative, concepts and skills associated with thetechnique of integration and introduction to the application of calculuswith special functions. Series (infinite) are optional, depending on timeavailable. This course is suggested for non-engineering, college-boundstudents. The smaller amount of application presented is geared toBusiness Calculus and Calculus I classes in colleges. The studentsdo not take the AP Calculus AB Test, so topics such as L’Hospital’sRule and in-depth applications (three variable derivatives and integral)are omitted.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.2532 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CALCULUS ABLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Pre-Calculus CP or Pre-APRank: APThis course, intended for students in a five or six year math program,represents college-level mathematics for which most colleges anduniversities grant advanced placement and or college credit. Thecourse will cover all topics in freshman college calculus and additionaltopics required for the AP Calculus AB exam given in the spring.Among the topics are: functions, graphs and limits; derivatives andtheir applications; and integrals and their applications. This courseis taught from an algebraic and geometric approach with technologyused regularly to reinforce the relationships among the multiplerepresentations. During the course AP Calculus exam questions arecorrelated to the subject matter. This course prepares the student forthe AP Calculus AB exam and provides a firm foundation for thosewho wish to take the AP Calculus BC course /exam the following year.Students are required to take the AP Calculus exam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the gifted and talented student.


Page 20Instructional Leaders......McHi Vertical Team: Principals Sitting L-R, Yvette Cavazos, Achieve Early College; Cynthia Rodriguez, Blanca E. SanchezElem.; Christine M. Beck, <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>; Kristine Garza, Woodrow Wilson Elem.; Leticia Infante, Jose A. NavarroElem.; Sonia Casas, William B. Travis MS; Nancy Dillard, Sam Rayburn Elem.; Brian McClenny, Homer J. Morris MS;Cynthia Hatzold, Victor Fields Elem.<strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Counselors: Back Row from Left to Right: Diana Keller, John Brooks,Paige Cisneros, Lupita Salinas, Jody Peña Front Row from Left to Right: Jeanne Dopp,Mirtha Jimenez, Cindy Olivarez, Lillia Muñoz-LiguezMemorial Vertical Team: Principals L-R, Carlos Hernandez, Dorothea Brown MS; Lisette Hinojosa, Instruction &Guidance Center; Rosie Larson, <strong>McAllen</strong> Memorial HS; Dr. Jose A. Gonzalez, Dr. Rodney D. Cathey MS; ChristinaHernandez, Leonelo H. Gonzalez Elem.; Debra Loya Thomas, Sam Houston Elem.; Sylvia Ibarra, Andrew Jackson Elem.;Jennifer Saenz, James Bonham Elem.; Gloria Corpus, Jose De Escandon Elem.; Yolanda Z. Ramirez, Theodore RooseveltElem.<strong>McAllen</strong> Memorial <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Counselors Seating: Sitting Left to Right: S. Solis, L. Rodriguez,D. Pace, Lead Counselor , D. Treviño Standing: E. Sanchez, I. Herrera, I. Neve,G. Valdez Not pictured: N. GonzalezRowe Vertical Team: Principals Sitting L-R Sandra Salinas, Lucile McKee Hendricks Elem.; Eulalia Tijerina, Dr. CarlosCastañeda Elem.; Cindy Peña, Lamar Academy; Bridgette Y. Vieh, James “Nikki” Rowe HS; Dr. Cynthia Noel, Reynaldo G.Garza Elem.; Socorro Espinoza, Francisca Alvarez Elem.; Maria Elva De Leon, Thigpen/Zavala Elem.; Joe Garza, AbrahamLincoln MS; Alberto Canales, Michael E. Fossum MS; Philip Grossweiler, Alonzo De Leon MS; Sandra Pitchford, ChristaMcAuliffe Elem.; Diana Cortez, Juan Seguin Elem.Nikki Rowe <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Counselors Sitting Left to right: Front Row Left to Right: WilliamBaize, Marta Rodriguez, Tahnee Netro, Alberto Vasquez, Back Row Left To Right: ElizabethDe Leon, Melissa Lauer, Maryiel Garcia, Rosie Salinas


......helping you make career connectionsPage 21Rachel ArcauteAssistant Superintendent for Instructional ServicesDr. Matt WeberAssociate Superintendent forInstructional ServicesMelba Fuentes,Associate Superintendent forInstructional LeadershipEsther Tijerina, Lead Instructional Services Support OfficerJohn Martinez, Instructional Services Support OfficerDr. Carol Perez, Instructional Services Support OfficerEsteban MartinezCoordinator for Language Arts/Dyslexia/Foreign LanguageLynda Farias,Coordinator for MathematicsKaren NitschDirector for Advanced AcademicsMario ReynaCoordinator for Health/PEGlenda McClendonCoordinator for Counseling and Guidance/504Social Studies Department Top Row Left to Right: Mr. WilliamGilbert (Cathey Dep. Chair), Mr. Mick West (Social StudiesCoordinator), Mrs. Clarissa Abbott (TAH Grant Coach), Mr. RubenRojas (Morris – 8th Grade) Bottom Row Left to Right: Mrs. EllieVillanueva (Brown – 8th Grade), Mrs. Joyce Moore (Travis – 6thGrade), Mrs. D. Lisa Ramos (Lincoln Dep. Chair)Karen McNallenCoordinator for ScienceCTE Department Top row left to right: Miros Garcia CTE Dept Head at McHi, Ana Torre CTE DeptHead at Memorial HS, Aimee Dalton CTE Dept Head at Lamar HS, Blanca Guerrero CTE Dept Head atRowe HS, Susan Thomas Dept Head at Rowe HS, Maggie Treu CTE Dept Head at Memorial HS, andLisa Beare CTE Administration Bottom Row: Norma Sanchez Pena CTE Counselor at Memorial HS,Jeanne Dopp CTE Counselor at <strong>McAllen</strong> HS, Lilia Sandoval Silva CTE Director, Rosie Salinas CTECounselor at Nicki Rowe HS, and Catalina Morgan CTE Administration.


Page 222542 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CALCULUS BCLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Calculus ABRank: APThis course is for students in a six-year math program and is intended toprepare students for taking the BC portion of the advanced placementtest. All Calculus AB topics will be extended. Additional topics includeanalysis and applications of planar curves; integration by parts, partialfractions, and improper integrals; infinite series as well as other topicsincluding differential equations, Slope Fields, Euler Method and Taylorseries approximations. This course is taught from an algebraic, numericand geometric approach. Students are required to take the AP ExamNOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.2555 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)Mathematics SLLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: IBThis one-year course is designed to meet the Mathematics standard levelor the first year of the higher level requirement for the IB Diploma. Thiscourse provides students with a challenging curriculum that allowsstudents to become efficient problem solvers within the global aspectof mathematics. The emphasis of this course is the study of functionsand equations, trigonometry, vector geometry, statistics and probability,calculus, and analysis approximation. Students are required to spend10 hours completing a portfolio of work that includes mathematicalinvestigations, extended closed problem solving, and modeling. Thiscourse prepares students to take the Mathematics SL exam. Collegesand universities grant college credit based on scores earned on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.2556 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)MATHEMATICS HLLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: IB Math Methods 2555Rank: IBThis one-year course is designed to meet the 2 nd year of the Mathematics<strong>High</strong>er level requirement for the IB Diploma. The emphasis in thiscourse is the study of functions and equations, trigonometry, vectorgeometry, matrices, statistics and probability, calculus, and analysis andapproximation. This course prepares students to take the Mathematics<strong>High</strong>er Level IB exam. College credit may be granted for scores onthis exam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.2612 MATHEMATICAL MODELS WITHAPPLICATIONS CPLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Algebra 1Recommendation: Credit in GeometryRank: CPFor freshmen entering 07-08, this course will satisfy math graduationrequirement, if taken prior to Algebra 2. This course allows students tocontinue to build on the K-8 and Algebra 1 foundations as they expandtheir understanding through other mathematical experiences. Studentsuse algebraic, graphical, and geometric reasoning to recognize patternsand structure, to model information, and to solve problems from variousdisciplines. Students use mathematical methods to model and solve reallifeapplied problems involving money, data, chance, patterns, music,design, and science. Students use mathematical models from algebra,geometry, probability, and statistics and connections among these tosolve problems from a wide variety of advanced applications in bothmathematical and non-mathematical situations. Students use a varietyof representations (concrete, numerical algorithmic, graphical), tools,and technology to link modeling techniques and purely mathematicalconcepts and to solve applied problems.2722 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) STATISTICSLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Algebra 2 or Pre-CalculusRank: APThis course is an option for students who have successfully completedthe Algebra II or Pre-Calculus course. The topics covered include use ofgraphical and numerical techniques to study patterns in data; formulatingdata collection plans; using probability as a tool for anticipatingdistribution of data; and use of inferential and diagnostic methods toselect appropriate models. Students are required to take the AP Exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.2742 Advanced Quantitative ReasoningLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Algebra IIRank: CPThis course is an engaging, relevant, and rigorous course that providesa strong background in statistics, as well as addressing interesting andimportant topics in finance, discrete math, trigonometry and other areasof mathematics. It uses what students have learned in algebra andgeometry to model and to solve a variety of problems. As studentsdo mathematics, they continually use problem-solving, language andcommunication, connections within and outside mathematics, andreasoning.2752 Independent Study/College Math PrepLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Algebra IIRank: College PreparatoryThis course will serve as a College Readiness course where Seniorswill be given content above Algebra II needed to be successful inCollege Algebra at a University. Some of the math concepts that youwill be focusing on are: graphing and solving of functions (includingquadratics, linear, exponential, radical, and rational), solving of systemsusing matrices, simplifying exponents and radicals. At the same timestudents can place out of Developmental Math Course where no collegetranscript is awarded.4502 ADVANCED STUDIESLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Recommendation: NoneRank: NoneThis course is designed as an elective course where students conductin-depth research, prepare an approved product of professional qualityand present their findings to appropriate audiences. Students, workingindependently or in collaboration with a mentor, investigate a problem,issue, or concern; they research the topic using a variety of technologiesand present a product of professional quality to an appropriate audience.Students who are pursuing the Distinguished Achievement Program orthe International Baccalaureate diploma may take this course to earnstate credit for developing, researching and presenting their findings.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted talentedstudent.SCIENCE3002 INTEGRATED PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY ESLLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Concurrent Enrollment in HILDor English I SOLPreferred: Currently Enrollment in Algebra 1Rank: StandardThis course provides a foundation of study for Chemistry and Physics.In the area of chemistry, students will investigate the relationshipsbetween the properties of matter and its components, as well as changesin matter and how fluid chemistry is a part of everyday life. In the areaof physics, the study of force, motion, waves, energy transformationand their application to everyday life are emphasized. Laboratoryinvestigations are both independent and group-oriented. Studentswill formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments and make informeddecisions. Mathematics, problem solving, critical thinking, oral andwritten communication and research techniques are emphasized. NOTE:IPC is an entry level applied science course for students who have notreceived instruction in Physics or Chemistry. This course does not meetthe science requirement under the DAP Program.3012 INTEGRATED PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY SDLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: StandardThis course provides a foundation of study for Chemistry and Physics.In the area of chemistry, students will investigate the relationshipsbetween the properties of matter and its components, as well as changesin matter and how fluid chemistry is a part of everyday life. In the areaof physics, the study of force, motion, waves, energy transformationand their application to everyday life are emphasized. Laboratoryinvestigations are both independent and group oriented. Studentswill formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments and make informeddecisions. Mathematics, problem solving, critical thinking, oral andwritten communication and research techniques are emphasized. NOTE:IPC is an entry level applied science course for students who have notreceived instruction in Physics or Chemistry. This course does not meetthe science requirement under the DAP Program.3022 INTEGRATED PHYSICS AND CHEMISTRY CPLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: College PreparatoryThis course provides a foundation of study for Chemistry and Physics.In the area of chemistry, students will investigate the relationshipsbetween the properties of matter and its components, as well as changesin matter and how fluid chemistry is a part of everyday life. In the areaof physics, the study of force, motion, waves, energy transformationand their application to everyday life are emphasized. Laboratoryinvestigations are both independent and group-oriented. Studentswill formulate hypotheses, conduct experiments and make informeddecisions. Mathematics, problem solving, critical thinking, oral andwritten communication and research techniques are emphasized.NOTE: IPC is an entry level applied science course for students whohave not received instruction in Physics or Chemistry. This course doesnot meet the science requirement under the DAP Program.3102 BIOLOGY ESLLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Concurrent Enrollment in HILD or English 1 SOLRank: StandardStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students in thiscourse study a variety of topics that include: structures and functions ofcells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues,and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; biological evolution; taxonomy;metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems;homeostasis; ecosystems; and plants and the environment. This courseis taught using ESL strategies.3112 BIOLOGY SDLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: StandardStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students in thiscourse study a variety of topics that include: structures and functions ofcells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues,and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; biological evolution; taxonomy;metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems;homeostasis; ecosystems; and plants and the environment.


3122 BIOLOGY CPLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: College PreparatoryStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students in thiscourse study a variety of topics that include: structures and functions ofcells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues,and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; biological evolution; taxonomy;metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems;homeostasis; ecosystems; and plants and the environment. Emphasisis placed on critical thinking skills, oral and written communicationand research techniques.3132 BIOLOGY Pre-APLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: Pre-APStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students in thiscourse study a variety of topics that include: structures and functions ofcells and viruses; growth and development of organisms; cells, tissues,and organs; nucleic acids and genetics; biological evolution; taxonomy;metabolism and energy transfers in living organisms; living systems;homeostasis; ecosystems; and plants and the environment. Emphasis isplaced on critical thinking skills, oral and written communication andresearch techniques. This is a rigorous Biology course that preparesstudents for AP Biology or IB Biology.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talented student.3142 MYP Biology 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 1st or 2nd yearScience requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as the Biology1 requirement of the state of Texas. This course includes the study ofscientific skills and processes; the biological concepts of change, energy,structures, patterns, and systems as well as personal, social and globalawareness. These topics are focused through five areas of interaction.This course prepares students for the IB Diploma Program.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3152 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) BIOLOGYLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology, ChemistryRank: APThis course is designed to be the equivalent of a two-semester collegeintroductory biology course usually taken by biology majors duringtheir first year. This course is designed to be taken by students afterthe successful completion of a first course in high school biology andone in high school chemistry as well. It aims to provide students withthe conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical skillsnecessary to deal critically with the rapidly changing science of biology.The course content includes 25% Molecules and Cells, 25% Heredity andEvolution, and 50% Organisms and Populations. The kinds of labs doneare the equivalent of those done by college students. Students enrolledin this course will take the required Biology Advanced PlacementExam. Students may be granted college credit for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3155 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)BIOLOGY SLLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: IBThis one-year course of study is designed to meet the ExperimentalScience Standard Level and 1 st year of the <strong>High</strong>er Level requirement forthe IB Diploma. This course includes topics in cells, chemistry of life,genetics, ecology and evolution, and human health and physiology.Standard level options include the additional topics of diet and humannutrition, physiology of exercise and cells and energy. Students arerequired to complete a practical scheme of work that includes 40 hoursof laboratory exercises which are internally assessed and externallymoderated. This course prepares students to take the required IBBiology standard level exam. College credit may be granted for scoreson this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent3156 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)BIOLOGY HLLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: IB Biology 3155Rank: IBThis one-year course of study is designed to meet the 2 nd yearExperimental Science higher level requirement for the IB Diploma. Thiscourse will include topics in Nucleic acid and proteins, cell respirationand photosynthesis, genetics, human reproduction, infectious diseases,nerves, muscles, and movement, excretion, and plant science. <strong>High</strong>erlevel options include the additional topics of evolution, neurobiology andbehavior, applied plant and animal science, ecology and conservation,and further human physiology. Students are required to complete apractical scheme of work that includes 60 hours of laboratory exerciseswhich are internally assessed and externally moderated. This courseprepares students to take the required IB Biology higher level exam.College credit may be granted for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3172 ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGY OF HUMAN SYSTEMSLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology and ChemistryRank: Challenge (GT)This course is the study of the structures and functions of the componentsof the human body. This course is designed to build a knowledge basefor those students who wish to pursue a medically related career.Laboratory investigations will include at least one major dissection(usually a cat), microscopic studies and physiology investigations.Course content includes the physiology of each organ system. Studentsmay attend presentations and lectures on related subjects or take fieldtrips to health care facilities. Students are expected to participate ingroup projects and complete outside research. Students should consulttheir college of choice to determine if Anatomy and Physiology willsatisfy entry requirements.3212 CONCEPTUAL CHEMISTRYLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology and IPCRank: StandardIn this course, students conduct field and laboratory investigations, usescientific methods during investigations, and make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students studya variety of topics that include: characteristics of matter; energytransformations during physical and chemical changes; atomic structure;periodic table of elements; behavior of gases; bonding; nuclear fusionand nuclear fission; oxidation-reduction reactions; chemical equations;solutes; properties of solutions; acids and bases; and chemical reactions.Students will investigate how chemistry is an integral part of our dailylives. Mathematical computation is not stressed in this course.Page 233222 CHEMISTRY CPLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: BiologyRank: College PreparatoryStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students studya variety of topics that include: characteristics of matter; energytransformations during physical and chemical changes; atomic structure;periodic table of elements; behavior of gases; bonding; nuclear fusionand nuclear fission; oxidation-reduction reactions; chemical equations;solutes; properties of solutions; acids and bases; and chemical reactions.Students will investigate how chemistry is an integral part of our dailylives.3232 CHEMISTRY PRE-APLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: BiologyRank: Pre-APStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students studya variety of topics that include: characteristics of matter; energytransformations during physical and chemical changes; atomic structure;periodic table of elements; behavior of gases; bonding; nuclear fusionand nuclear fission; oxidation-reduction reactions; chemical equations;solutes; properties of solutions; acids and bases; and chemical reactions.Students will investigate how chemistry is an integral part of our dailylives. These topics are studied in greater detail and more emphasisis placed on lab work, design and projects. This is a comprehensivechemistry course that can be used as preparation for AP or IB Chemistry.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3235 MYP Chemistry 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 1st or 2nd yearScience requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as the Chemistry1 requirement of the state of Texas. This course includes the study ofscientific skills and processes; the chemical concepts of change, energy,structures, patterns, and systems as well as personal, social and globalawareness. These topics are focused through five areas of interaction.This course prepares students for the IB Diploma Program. NOTE:This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talented student3242 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) CHEMISTRYLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Chemistry and Algebra 2Rank: APThis course is intended to provide the equivalent of a first-year collegechemistry course. It emphasizes mathematical computations and an indepthreview of inorganic chemistry topics, as well as organic chemistryand biochemistry principles. Laboratory investigations and reportwriting are also emphasized. This course provides abundant backgrounddata for students pursuing a scientific career. Students enrolled in thiscourse will take the Chemistry Advanced Placement Exam. Collegecredit may be granted for scores on this exam. NOTE: This advancedcourse serves the identified gifted/talented student.


Page 243255 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)CHEMISTRY SLLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: IBThis one-year course is designed to meet the Experimental ScienceStandard Level and 1 st year <strong>High</strong>er Level requirement for the IBDiploma. This course includes the topics of basic chemistry tools,atomic and molecular structure, states of matter, control of chemicalreactions, and the chemistry of the elements and their compounds.Standard level options include higher organic chemistry, higher physicalchemistry, and environmental chemistry. Students are required tocomplete a practical scheme of work that includes 40 hours of laboratoryexercises which are internally assessed and externally moderated. Thiscourse prepares students to take the IB Chemistry standard level exam.College credit may be grated for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3256 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)CHEMISTRY HLLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: IB Chemistry 3255This one-year course is designed to meet the second year ExperimentalScience higher level requirement for the IB Diploma. This coursewill include the topics of basic Chemistry tools, atomic and molecularstructure, states of matter, control of chemical reactions, and thechemistry of the elements and their compounds. <strong>High</strong>er level Chemistryincludes additional prescribed topics as well as options. Students arerequired to complete a practical scheme of work that includes 60 hoursof laboratory experiments that are internally assessed and externallymoderated. This course prepares students to take the IB Chemistryhigher level exam. College credit may be granted for scores on thisexam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3322 PHYSICS CPLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology; IPC and/or ChemistryRank: College PreparatoryStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Topics include:laws of motion; changes within physical systems and conservationof energy and momentum; force; thermodynamics; characteristics andbehavior of waves; and quantum physics. This course provides studentswith a conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical andscientific skills. Laboratory investigations encourage students tothink and are centered on real-life situations. Emphasis is placed onlaboratory investigations.3332 PHYSICS PRE-APLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology and/or ChemistryRank: Pre-APStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Topics include:laws of motion; changes within physical systems and conservation ofenergy and momentum; force; thermodynamics; characteristics andbehavior of waves; and quantum physics. This course provides studentswith a conceptual framework, factual knowledge, and analytical andscientific skills. Laboratory investigations encourage students tothink and are centered on real-life situations. This is a comprehensivephysics course that can be used as preparation for AP or IB Physicsin high school. Emphasis is placed on data analysis, problem solvingand research. NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identifiedgifted/talented student.3335 MYP Physics 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 1st or 2nd yearScience requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as the Chemistry1 requirement of the state of Texas. This course includes the study ofscientific skills and processes; the physical concepts of change, energy,structures, patterns, and systems as well as personal, social and globalawareness. These topics are focused through five areas of interaction.This course prepares students for the IB Diploma Program.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3342 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) PHYSICS BLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Physics; credit or concurrent enrollment in Pre-Calculus or CalculusRank: APThis course is a second year physics course designed to prepare studentsfor the AP Physics exam given each May. Students may receive collegecredit for algebra-based physics. This physics course is required formost science majors, all medical and health related careers and in somebusiness schools. It will NOT count in most engineering schools.Engineering students should take AP Physics C (Calculus-based). ThePhysics AP B course content includes Newtonian mechanics, heat,kinetic theory and thermodynamics, electromagnetism, waves andoptics and modern physics. Students enrolled in this class will beexpected to take the AP Physics B Advanced Placement Exam.College credit may be granted for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3352 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) PHYSICS CLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Physics; CP credit or currently enrolled in CalculusRank: APThis course is an advanced introductory course in Physics usingCalculus. Content includes kinematics, advanced math skills,vector skills, Newton’s laws of motion, work, energy, power, fluiddynamics, particle systems, rotational motion, oscillation, gravitation,electrostatics, electric current and circuits, capacitance, magnetismand others. This course is intended for students planning to major inphysical science or engineering. Students enrolled in this coursewill take the Advanced Placement Physics C exams. College creditmay be granted for scores on these exams.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3355 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)PHYSICS SLLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: IBThis one-year course is designed to meet the Experimental ScienceStandard Level and 1 st year <strong>High</strong>er Level requirement for the IBDiploma. This course includes topics in Mechanics, Thermodynamics,Electromagnetism, Relativity, and Quantum Mechanics. StandardLevel options include a Mechanics Extension, Atomic and NuclearPhysics Extension, and Energy Extension. Students are required tocomplete 40 hours of laboratory experiments that are internally assessedand externally moderated. This course prepares students to take theIB Physics Standard Level exam. College credit may be granted forscores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3356 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)PHYSICS HLLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: IB Physics 3355Rank: IBThis one-year course is designed to meet the second year ExperimentalScience <strong>High</strong>er Level requirement for the IB Diploma. This courseincludes topics in Mechanics, Thermodynamics, Electromagnetism,Relativity, and Quantum Mechanics. <strong>High</strong>er Level Physics includesadditional prescribed topics, as well as options in special and generalrelativity and optics. Students are required to complete 60 hours oflaboratory experiments that are internally assessed and externallymoderated. This course prepares students to take the IB Physics <strong>High</strong>erLevel Exam. College credit may be granted for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.3412 AQUATIC SCIENCE SDLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology, IPC and Chemistry or PhysicsRank: StandardStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students studya variety of topics that include: components of an aquatic ecosystem;relationships among aquatic habitats and ecosystems; roles of cycleswithin an aquatic environment; adaptations of aquatic organisms;changes within aquatic environments; geological phenomena and fluiddynamics effects; and origin and use of water in a watershed. Studentsshould consult their college of choice to determine whether or notAquatic Science will satisfy entry requirements.3414 AQUATIC SCIENCE CPLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology, IPC, and Chemistry or PhysicsRank: College PreparatoryStudents will conduct descriptive, comparative and experimentalinvestigations 40% of the time. Students will make informed decisionsusing critical thinking and scientific problem solving. Students studya variety of topics that include: components of an aquatic ecosystem;relationships among aquatic habitats and ecosystems; roles of cycleswithin an aquatic environment; adaptations of aquatic organisms;changes within aquatic environments; geological phenomena and fluiddynamics effects; and origin and use of water in a watershed. Thiscourse is a rigorous presentation of the scientific concepts relating toaquatic environments and is intended for serious students at a collegepreparatory level. Students should consult their college of choiceto determine whether or not Aquatic Science will satisfy entryrequirements.3432 Earth and Space ScienceLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology and ChemistryRank: CPThis one year course will give the student one credit in the area ofscience to meet graduation requirements. Students will conductdescriptive, comparative and experimental investigations 40% of thetime. Students will make informed decisions using critical thinkingand scientific problem solving. Students study a variety of topics thatinclude: characteristics and conditions of the Earth; formation andhistory of the Earth; plate tectonics; origin and composition of mineralsand rocks and the rock cycle; processes and products of weathering;natural energy resources; interactions in a watershed; characteristicsof oceans; characteristics of the atmosphere; and the role of energy inweather and climate. Students should consult their college of choiceto determine whether or not Earth and Space Science will satisfyentry requirements.


3533 Environmental systems cpLowest Grade Level Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology/ IPCThis course is designed to provide students with the scientificprinciples, concepts, and methodologies required to understandthe interrelationships of the natural world, to identify and analyzeenvironmental problems both natural and human-made, to evaluate therelative risks associated with these problems, and to examine alternativesolutions for resolving or preventing them. Students should consulttheir college of choice to determine whether or not EnvironmentalSystems CP will satisfy entry requirements.3553 Environmental Science APLowest Grade Level Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Physics or ChemistryThis course is intended to provide the equivalent of a one-semester,introductory college level college course in environmental science.The course is designed to provide students with the scientific principles,concepts, and methodologies required to understand the interrelationshipsof the natural world, to identify and analyze environmental problemsboth natural and human-made, to evaluate the relative risks associatedwith these problems, and to examine alternative solutions for resolvingor preventing them. Students enrolled in this course will take theEnvironmental Advanced Placement Exam. College Credit may begranted for scores on this exam. Taught at McHi. Transportation byschool bus required.4502 ADVANCED STUDIESLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Recommendation: NoneRank: NoneThis course is designed as an elective course where students conductin-depth research, prepare an approved product of professional quality,and present their findings to appropriate audiences. Students, workingindependently or in collaboration with a mentor, investigate a problem,issue, or concern; they research the topic using a variety of technologiesand present a product of professional quality to an appropriate audience.Students who are pursuing the Distinguished Achievement Program orthe International Baccalaureate diploma may take this course to earnstate credit for developing, researching and presenting their findings.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted talentedstudent.SOCIAL STUDIES4102 WORLD GEOGRAPHY STUDIES/ESLLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Currently Enrollment in HILD or ESOLRank: StandardThis course has been specifically structured to offer global studiesto students of limited English ability. Based on the five themes ofgeography, it provides students with an opportunity to develop mapskills as well as an understanding of the relationship between peopleand their environment. This course is taught using ESL methodologies.4112 WORLD GEOGRAPHY STUDIES SDLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: StandardThis course stresses the five themes of geography with a focus onthe relationship between physical, economic and cultural geography.Emphasis is placed on the development of research, techniques andprojects demographics and map skills.4122 WORLD GEOGRAPHY STUDIES CPLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: College PreparatoryThis course stresses the five themes of geography with a focus onthe relationship between physical, economic and cultural geography.Emphasis is placed on the development of research, demographics,critical thinking skills and oral and written communications.4132 WORLD GEOGRAPHY STUDIES PRE-APLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: Pre-APThis course stresses the five themes of geography with a focus onthe relationship between physical, economic geography, and culturalgeography. Skills are developed in research, demographics, maps,critical thinking and written communication. Outside projects arerequired. NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talented student.4152 MYP World GeographyLowest Grade Placement: 9Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 1st yearHumanities requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as theWorld Geography requirement of the state of Texas. This courseincludes geographical knowledge and understanding; understandingand application of geographical concepts; application of technical,investigative, analytical and problem-solving skills; and presentationand organization of information. These topics are focused through fiveareas of interaction. This course prepares students for the IB DiplomaProgram. NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talented student.4202 WORLD HISTORY STUDIES ESLLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Currently Enrolled in English 1 ESOLRank: StandardThis course has been specifically structured to offer World Historyto students of limited English ability. World History—ESL is achronological survey of world history from the earliest civilization tothe present. The major emphasis is on the study of important people,events, and issues throughout history. Class discussions require studentsto interpret and analyze historical materials. This course is taught usingESL methodologies.4212 WORLD HISTORY STUDIES SDLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: StandardThis course provides an overview of the history of the world fromearly civilizations to the present. The major emphasis is on the studyof important people, events, and issues throughout history. Included inthe course is a study of the development of government and economicsystems, the importance of geographical factors on a civilization and theimpact of religious and physiological traditions. Projects and discussionsrequire students to interpret and analyze historical material.4222 WORLD HISTORY STUDIES CPLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: College PreparatoryThis course provides an overview of the history of the world fromearly civilizations to the present. The major emphasis is on the studyof important people, events and issues throughout history. Included inthe course, is a study of the development of government and economicsystems, the importance of geographical factors on a civilization and theimpact of religious and philosophical traditions. Social studies skillssuch as research techniques, evaluation of resources and the use ofcritical thinking skills to organize and use information are an importantpart of the course. Projects and discussion require students to interpretand analyze historical materials.Page 254232 WORLD HISTORY STUDIES PRE-APLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: PreAPThis course provides an overview of history of the world from earlycivilizations to the present. Students are expected to analyze synthesizeand evaluate history and literature materials. This course includesthe same elements of World History; however, this class is intendedto challenge the ability and meet the needs of academically talented,college-bound students. Students explore an interdisciplinary view ofthe development of past and present cultures through the interpretation,evaluation and analysis of historical and literary materials. Studentsshould expect extra reading assignments, research projects and essays.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.4252 MYP World HistoryLowest Grade Placement: 10Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 2nd yearHumanities requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as theWorld History requirement of the state of Texas. This course includeshistorical knowledge and understanding; understanding and applicationof historical concepts; application of technical, investigative, analyticaland problem-solving skills; and presentation and organization ofinformation. These topics are focused through five areas of interaction.This course prepares students for the IB Diploma Program. NOTE:This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talented student.4253 Advanced placement WORLD HISTORYRank: APLowest Grade Level: 10Credit: 1Recommendation: World GeographyThis college level course has a chronological framework beginning withthe foundations of history and continuing to the present. Truly global innature, the course includes studies of major political, social, economicand artistic movements found in societies in Asia, Europe, Africa, andNorth and South America. Extensive reading and composition preparethe student for the rigors of the Advanced Placement exam.The students are required to take the AP Exam.4312 U.S. HISTORY STUDIES SDLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: World Geography Studies/World History StudiesRank: StandardThe course begins in the year 1877 at the conclusion of the Reconstructionof America. Activities include oral reports, map projects and the study ofboth primary and secondary source material. The influence of historicalevents is used to make the future more understandable.4322 U.S. HISTORY STUDIES CPLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: World History Studies or World Geography StudiesRank: College PreparatoryThis course is a survey course of events concerning the United Statesof America. The course study begins in 1877 at the conclusion ofreconstruction. Activities include oral reports, map projects and thestudy of primary and secondary source materials. Students participatein class discussion, simulations, group presentations and independentstudyprojects.


Page 264352 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) U.S. HISTORYSTUDIESPending College Board Approval for AP StatusLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: World Geography OR World History StudiesRank: APThis course surveys the American experience from colonialsettlement to the present. The course, which is both writing and readingintensive, is designed to provide students with the analytic skills andfactual knowledge necessary to deal critically with the problems andevents in United States history. Because a major goal of the class isto prepare students to successfully complete the Advanced Placementexam, students can expect demands upon them equivalent to those madeby full-year introductory college courses. The students are requiredto take the AP Exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.4355 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)HISTORY OF THE AMERICAS HLLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: IBThis course of study is designed to meet the 1 st year of the History<strong>High</strong>er Level requirement for the IB Diploma as well as the U.S.History credit for the state of Texas. Students study History of theAmericas from European settlement to the present with an emphasison Latin America and the United States, from 1875 to 1975. Studentsare required to complete a historical investigation of 1500-2000 wordswhich is internally assessed and externally moderated.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.4411 U.S. GOVERNMENT SDLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: U.S. History StudiesRank: StandardThe course is designed to develop an understanding of thefoundation, structures and functions of the U.S. political system.Specific emphasis is placed on the study of the U.S. Constitution.Students are provided opportunities to identify executive, legislative andjudicial authority roles. They also examine the functions of politicalparties and factors that influence an individual’s political beliefs andbehavior.4421 U.S. GOVERNMENT CPLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: U.S. History StudiesRank: College PreparatoryThis course is designed to give students a more in-depthunderstanding of the foundation, structures and functions of the U.S.political system. Specific emphasis is placed on the study of the U.S.Constitution.4431 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) U.S.GOVERNMENT AND POLITICSLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: U.S. History StudiesRank: APThis course is designed to give students a critical perspective ongovernment and politics in the United States. Course content includesthe study of general concepts used to interpret United States politicsand the analysis of specific case studies. Because a major goal ofthe class is to prepare students to successfully complete the AdvancedPlacement exam, students can expect demands upon them the impact ofreligious and physiological traditions. Projects and discussions requirestudents to interpret and analyze historical material.4455 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)20 TH CENTURY WORLD HISTORY HLLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: IB History of the Americas 4355Rank: IBThis one-year course of study is designed to meet the 2 nd year IBHistory <strong>High</strong>er Level requirement for the IB Diploma. Students study20 th Century World History topics related to modern wars, single-partystates, and the Cold War. Students are required to complete a researchpaper which is internally assessed and externally moderated. This courseculminates with the IB History <strong>High</strong>er Level Exam. Students may begranted college credit for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.4461 SPECIAL TOPICS IN SOCIAL STUDIES/ APLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1/2 ElectiveRank: NoneThis course is designed to give students a critical perspective on generalconcepts used to interpret United States politics and the analysis ofspecific case studies. The course also requires familiarity with thevarious institutions, groups, beliefs and ideas that make up the UnitedStates political reality. Students examine current social issues and publicpolicy in the context of the United States Constitution and establisheddivisions of power within the American political structure. The focusof this course is the nature of the relationship between individualsand society and involves an in-depth study of the philosophicalunderpinnings of the founding documents. Students taking SpecialTopics in Social Studies should take the AP Government course (4431)NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.4363 Advanced Placement (AP) European HistoryLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: APThis course explores the intellectual, cultural and social-economichistory of Europe from approximately 1450- the 1980s. In addition toan exposure to the factual narrative of this period, the course attemptsto develop student understanding of the principal themes in modernEuropean history and ability to analyze historical evidence. Extensiveoutside reading is required for the course. The students arerequired to take the AP Exam.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent. Taught at McHi transportation by school bus required.4471 PSYCHOLOGYLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course deals with the science of human and animal behavior.The purpose of this course is to help students understand themselvesas individuals and their relationships with others. Topics include thenature of psychology, developmental psychology, motivation andemotion, personality theories, mental and behavioral disorder therapies,personality testing, assessment, sensation and perception, the brain andhow it works and states of consciousness. Emphasis is placed on classdiscussion of student experiences The course is strongly recommendedfor students interested in careers in the field of behavioral science.4473/4475 ADVANCED PLACEMENT PSYCHOLOGYLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course deals with the science of human and animal behavior.The purpose of this course is to help students understand themselvesas individuals and their relationships with others. Topics include thenature of psychology, learning, developmental psychology, motivationand emotion, personality theories, mental and behavioral disordertherapies, personality testing, assessment, sensation and perception,the brain and how it works and states of consciousness. Emphasis isplaced on class discussion of student experiences. The course is stronglyrecommended for students interested in careers involving the field ofbehavioral science. The Psychology AP class is reading intensive andrequires independent work and research using case studies and journals.This class is intended to prepare students for the Psychology AP examand is conducted as a college level course. The students are requiredto take the AP Exam. Students taking AP - Psychology should takethe two semester Research Methods/Psychology AP course.4474 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)PSYCHOLOGY SLLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis one-year course of study is designed to meet the elective standardlevel or 1 st year higher level requirement for the IB Diploma. The aimsof this program are to promote an awareness of and respect for thepsychological diversity of human beings with reference to biological,social, and cultural influences; develop an appreciation of the broadscope of psychology; develop an understanding of different theoreticalapproaches to understanding behavior: introduce diverse methods ofpsychological inquiry; promote ethical practices and responsibilities inpsychological inquiry; and explore practical applications of psychologyand demonstrate relevance of psychology to daily life. Students arerequired to replicate a psychological study which is internally assessedand externally moderated. This course will prepare students to take theIB Psychology Standard Level Exam. Students may be granted collegecredit for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.4475/4473 RESEARCH METHODS / PSYCHOLOGY APLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course is a two semester course which is designed to preparethe self-motivated student for the Advanced Placement examination.Students will have the opportunity to practice with AdvancedPlacement formatted exams throughout the course in preparation for thisexamination. The course will cover the range of psychological conceptsnormally included in collegiate Introductory and General Psychologycourses. The range of topics will include: the history of psychology;research ethics; neurobiology and behavior; sensation and perception;states of consciousness; motivation and emotion; stress and health; socialpsychology; cognition; personality theory; and psychological disordersand therapy. An emphasis will be placed on research methodology andstatistics (towards the end of the course in an effort) to prepare studentsto propose and complete an independent research project which maybe submitted for publication. The students are required to take theAP Exam. NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talented student. Students taking AP - Psychology should take thetwo semester Research Methods/Psychology AP course.4476 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)PSYCHOLOGY HLLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: IB Psychology 4474Rank: NoneThis one-year course of study is designed to meet the second year ofthe higher level elective requirement for the IB Diploma. The aimsof this program are to promote an awareness of and respect for thepsychological diversity of human beings with reference to biological,social, and cultural influences; develop an appreciation of the broadscope of psychology; develop an understanding of different theoreticalapproaches to understanding behavior; introduce diverse methods ofpsychological inquiry; promote ethical practices and responsibilities inpsychological inquiry; and explore practical applications of psychologyand demonstrate the relevance of psychology to daily life. This courserequires a more detailed knowledge of research methods, additionaloptional studies and the design, conduct, and report of one experiment


which is internally assessed and externally moderated. This course willprepare students to take the IB Psychology <strong>High</strong>er Level Exam. Studentsmay be granted college credit for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.4481 SOCIOLOGYLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course deals with the study of the patterns of human group life. Thepurpose of this course is for students to learn how people act, react, andinteract both in their daily lives and under unusual circumstances fromearly childhood through adolescence and on into adulthood. Institutionssuch as the family, political and economic systems, as well as a historicalperspective of religious and educational influences are studied. Studentsalso examine social problems such as crime, aging, cities and suburbs,prejudice and discrimination, racism, poverty and environment, as wellas social movements, change and the problems of mass society.4502 ADVANCED STUDIESLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is an elective course in which students conduct in-depthresearch. Working in collaboration with a mentor, the studentinvestigates a problem, issue, or concern; researches the topic using avariety of technologies; and presents a product of professional qualityto an appropriate audience. The course requires field experience relatedto the area of investigation. Successful completion of this course mayresult in one “advanced measure” credit toward the Texas DistinguishedAchievement Program. Students who are pursuing the DistinguishedAchievement Program or the International Baccalaureate diploma maytake this course to earn state credit for developing, researching andpresenting their findings.NOTE: This advanced course also serves the identified gifted talentedstudent.4611 ECONOMICS SDLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: U.S. History StudiesRank: StandardThis course provides opportunities for students to examine basicprinciples concerning production, consumption and distribution of goodsand services. It emphasizes the free enterprise system and its benefits.Students study such concepts as scarcity, economic interdependence,various market systems, economics, income tax preparation, fiscaland monetary policy, commercial banking, stock market and familybudget projects.4621 ECONOMICS CPLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: U.S. History StudiesRank: College PreparatoryThis course provides opportunities for students to examine basicprinciples concerning production, consumption and distribution of goodsand services. It emphasizes the free enterprise system and its benefits.Students study such concepts as scarcity, economic interdependence,various market systems, economics, income tax preparation, fiscaland monetary policy, commercial banking, stock market and mockinvestment situations. Emphasis is placed on critical thinking skills,oral and written communication and research techniques.4631 ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)MACROECONOMICSLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Rank: AP ( Pending College Board Approval for AP Status)This course allows potential college students to study and demonstratemastery in basic economic concepts (nature and functions of economicsystems), in economic performance (Gross domestic product,unemployment, inflation), in the concept of aggregate demand andaggregate supply and in monetary policy and economic stability. Thecourse also includes the study of macroeconomic theories and the studyof the United States in a global economy. Students may be grantedcollege credit. The students are required to take the AP Exam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent. This course may not be offered at all three campuses. It mayrequire that the student travel to another campus for 2 periods.4641 ADVANCED PLACEMENT MicroeconomicsLowest grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Rank: AP ( Pending College Board Approval for AP Status)This course gives students a thorough understanding of the principlesof allocation of resources and the distribution of income as they areaffected by the workings of the price system and government policies.This course Emphasis of study will include supply and demand etc.on supply and demand curves, household consumption, specific rolesof firms and markets and government interplay in economics. Thestudents are required to take the AP Exam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent. This course may not be offered at all three campuses. It mayrequire that the student travel to another campus for 2 periods.CAREER AND TECHNOLOGYCAREER AND TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION COURSESCTE creates the environments that empower students to securehigh-wage, high skilled employment or seek advanced education andtraining. In addition, CTE programs (1) increase students’ options;(2) meet the needs of industry; and (3) enhance lifelong learning.AGRICULTURE SCIENCE ANDTECHNOLOGY7001 principals of ag. food & natural resourceLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Rank: NoneThis course is designed to introduce the agriculture industry to students.It explores this industry at all levels - world, national, state and local. Thecourse includes all areas of agricultural production, career development,leadership training, personal communication skills, finance, animalindustry, plant industry and agricultural mechanization. This courseis designed to enhance students’ abilities in agriculture in the areasof animal production, soil management, plant science, agriculturemechanics, record keeping, leadership and livestock/plant evaluation.Note: This course may meet the requirements for RegisteredParliamentarian certification.7052 PRINCIPLES AND ELEMENTS OF FLORAL DESIGNLowest Grade Placement: 10thCredit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed to develop students’ ability to identify anddemonstrate the principles and techniques related to floral designingas well as develop an understanding of the management of floralenterprises. Through the analysis of artistic floral styles and historicalperiods, students develop respect for the traditions and contributions ofdiverse cultures. NOTE: This course satisfies the Fine Arts graduationrequirement.7101 AG. MECHANICS & METAL TECHNOLOGIESLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed to familiarize students with basic theoryand specialized skills. Skills are developed in safety, carpentry,electricity,plumbing, masonry, fence building, painting, metal working,welding processes and related careers. This lab-based technical coursePage 27is also designed to develop skills in designing and fabricating metalequipment and structures. Emphasis is placed on design, mechanicaldrawings and assembly using modern metal fabrication techniques andtechnology.7091 AG. FACILITIES & DESIGN & FABRICATIONLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed to prepare students to maintain and improvetheir homes and adjacent buildings. Students learn the “do it yourself”methods for home repair. This lab-based technical course is alsodesigned to develop skills in maintaining, evaluating, designing andbuilding agriculture structures. Emphasis is placed on planning andconstructing agricultural buildings and enclosures; installing, servicing,and maintaining electrical systems; finishing and curing concrete;surveying; and planning and maintaining water management systems.7081 PROFESSIONAL STANDARDS IN AGRICULTURALLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis is a technical course designed to improve the student’scommunication skills. Students are provided knowledge and insightinto written, spoken, and visual communication skills and techniques,and their relationship to agriculture. Additional topics include careers,leadership and supervised agricultural experience programs. This courseis also designed as an introduction to practical business procedures; itdevelops a foundation for competent business participation and selfsufficiency in today’s world; it develops flexibility and adaptability forthe rapidly changing business environment and other skills necessaryfor success in the business world; it reinforces reading, writing,and mathematical skills;and it develops effective communicationand information management using emerging technology includingtelecommunications. This course does not satisfy the computer science/technology applications credit requirement under any graduation plan.This course satisfies the local PREP requirement7171 Wildlife, fishing ecology managementLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis technical course is designed to emphasize the selection,productionand marketing of diversified animal and plant enterprises. The courseincludes record keeping, integrated systems, career opportunities andleadership. This course is also designed to examine the importance ofwildlife and outdoor recreation with emphasis on the proper use ofwildlife and natural resources. The Texas Parks and Wildlife HunterEducation Certificate may be obtained in this course.7043 advanced animal scienceLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Minimum of two creditsAgriculture ScienceAdvanced Animal Science is a class to prepared students for careersin the field of animal science, students will acquire knowledge andskills related to animal systems, principles of genetics and breedingsystems for livestock improvement; examines anatomy and physiologyin livestock species; recognizes policies and issues in animal science;discusses slaughter livestock operations; and explores methods ofmarketing livestock. This course examines the interrelatedness ofhuman, scientific, and technological dimensions of livestock productionNOTE: This course satisfies the 4th Science graduation requirementand carries a CP ranking.


Page 28ARTS, AUDIO VISUAL AND COMMUNICATION8102 GRAPHIC DESIGN & ILLUSTRATIONLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis is a computer based course designed to provide advanced knowledgeand skills acquisition of the contemporary resources, processes andimpacts of graphic communications technology. Activities in thiscourse may include graphic design, computerized image composition,using ADOBE:PhotoShop, Image editing software & Vector GraphicsProgram NOTE: This course satisfies the Technology Applicationsgraduation requirement. This course may satisfy the requirements forAdobe photo shop certificate.8112 ANIMATIONLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Recommendation: Graphic Design & IllustrationRank: NoneThis technical course develops advanced knowledge and skills in theuse of computers for multimedia presentations and digital animation.It introduces students to 3-D modeling and rendering techniques andresources. This hands-on course allows students to create, edit, andrender vehicles, scenes, or objects, and to design and produce multimediapresentations that use images, video, and audio resources to deliver amessage. NOTE: This course satisfies the Technology Applicationsgraduation requirements. This course may satisfy the requirementsfor Flash.8032 Commercial PhotographyLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneThis course is designed as a pre-employment lab course to providestudents with instruction in the use of the tools of commercialphotography including cameras, lighting equipment, darkroomequipment for both color and black and white photography and computerimage manipulation using Adobe Photoshop. Trained in portrait andadvertising photography. As well as instruction in the areas of businessknowledge skills and human relations is also provided. Memorial /Transportation by school bus required.8034 ADVANCED Commercial Photographyowest Grade Placement: 12redit: 2rerequisite: Comm. Photo.ank: Nonehis course is designed for students interested in photographyemployment or going into business for themselves as photographers(free lance, studio, etc.). Students are exposed to professionals in thefield of photography; trained in retouching and restoration techniqueswith Adobe Photoshop. Students are taught the principles of freeenterprise and setting up their own business. Students completing thiscourse are prepared for gainful employment in the field of photography.Taught at Memorial / Transportation by school bus required.8052 printing & imaging TECHNOLOGYLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneThis two-hour course is designed to provide training for students in allphases of offset printing. The course covers desktop publishing relatedto the printing industry. Taught at Options / Transportation byschool bus required054 ADVANCED PRINTING & IMAGING TECHNOLOGYLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 2Prerequisite: Printing ImagingRank: NoneThis two-hour course is designed to provide second-year studentsindividual instruction and work on individual projects related to theprinting industry such as t-shirts and mouse pads. Students may alsoselect an area of specialization and receive additional training. Taughtat Options / Transportation by school bus required.8072 AUDIO VIDEO PRODUCTIONLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 2Rank: NoneThis course is designed to provide students with specific training forentry level employment in radio and television production careers.It includes operation of different types of cameras, mastery of audiotechniques,electronic editing, creation of media graphics, lighting,script writing,direction, production, special effects, signal control andmonitoring equipment, set design, entrepreneurship, safety, leadershipand career opportunities. (This course does not count as a fine artscredit.) Taught at McHi / Transportation by school bus required.8074 ADVANCED AUDIO VIDEO PRODUCTIONLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Prerequisite: Audio Video ProductionRank: NoneThis course is designed to provide instruction in advanced broadcastwriting for newscast, commercials, public service announcements,dramas,and other school district projects. Students are encouraged to seekinternships with local television and radio station production companiesand other audio concerns. Student productions are aired over localcable when time permits. Taught at McHi / Transportation by schoolbus required. NOTE: This course may meet requirements for certificate,Final Cut Pro.8076 PRACTICUM AUDIO / VIDEO PRODUCTIONLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 2Prerequisite: Advanced Audio Video ProductionRank: NoneThis course is designed as an advanced TV/Film production class. In studioproduction techniques are the focus of the class. Instruction is given in studiolighting, set design, field producing and reporting, Instruction is also givenfor live-to-tape productions including Friday night football games. Studentsproduce broadcast-quality shows for air on local cable channel and forcompetition. College and Career paths are researched.BUSINESS7212 ACCOUNTING ILowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRecommendation: Money MattersRank: NoneThis course introduces students to the accounting cycles for service andmerchandising business. Students learn to recognize the different forms ofbusiness organizations such as proprietorship, partnership, corporation andnon-profit. Banking and payroll procedures are performed as well as specialaccounting procedures such as depreciation, bad debts, notes payable andnotes receivable. Job simulations are a vital part of the course. NOTE:Students who have received credit for Accounting are not permitted to enrollin money matters. Also, students can not be enrolled in Money Matters andAccounting concurrently.7242 MONEY MATTERSLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneStudents will investigate global economics with emphasis on the freeenterprise systems and its impact on consumers and businesses. Studentsapply critical -thinking skills to analyze financial options based on currentand projected economic factors. Students will gain knowledge and skillsnecessary to set long term financial goals based on those options. Studentswill determine methods of achieving long term financial goals throughinvestment, tax planning, asset allocation. Risk management. Retirementplanning and estate planning.7281 TOUCH SYSTEM DATA ENTRYLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course provides for the mastery of touch control of keyboardcharacters,correct keystroking, proper manipulation of operative partsand care of the keyboard. Basic skills are acquired through correctkeyboarding techniques,skill building drills for speed and accuracyand application of keyboarding. Emphasis is placed on proofreading,error correction, and letter formatting. This course also provides theopportunity for students to discuss how the ability to operate thekeyboard efficiently affects information flow.7232 BUSINESS MANAGEMENTLowest Grade Placement:11Credit: 1Recommendation: Touch System Data EntryRank: NoneThis course is designed to study of concepts and skill in varioussystems and administrative procedures that enable a worker to manageor function in the workplace; enhance technology skills and or a andwritten language skills relating to effective communications; emphasizesplanning and organizing work, establishing priorities, records andinformation management and operation of equipment; and serves asthe major vehicle for cooperative education. NOTE: This course maymeet requirements for (OPAC) Office Proficiency Assessment Certification.7402 PRINCIPLES OF INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY(PREP)Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRecommendation: Touch System Data EntryRank: NoneThis course is required for graduation from M.I.S.D. It utilizes collegesuccess skills, SCANS skills, and reinforces computer technologynecessary for success in the workplace or college. A career interestand aptitude survey are used while decision making in the selectionof colleges and/or vocations is stressed. Students develop theirown personal learning style,manage time and money, read textbooksfor maximum learning, develop effective note taking, test taking(SAT strategies) , and critical thinking skills. Verbal and writtencommunication skills necessary for job applications and interviewsare learned. Computers are used to reinforce instruction and studentsbecome familiar with a variety of software applications includingscanning, e-mail, internet and portfolio development. NOTE: Thiscourse does not satisfy the technology applications credit requirementunder any graduation plan. This course may meet the requirements ofpreparation for Career Safe training for general industry certificate.7403 PRINCIPLES OF INFORMATIONTECHNOLOGY(PREP) / ADVANCEMENT VIAINDIVIDUAL DETERMINATION (AVID) IILowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Communication Applications / AVID IRecommendation: 1/2 Credit of Keyboarding or Middle <strong>School</strong>KeyboardingRank: NoneThis program is designed for second year AVID students who arepreparing to meet four year college entrance requirements by masteringcollege preparatory curricula that uses AVID strategies which enhancePSAT preparation with the use of College Board.


4910 <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>-College TransitionLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRecommendation: Touch System Data EntryRank: NoneCollege Transition is designed to equip students with the knowledge,skills, and abilities, necessary to be active and successful learners bothin high school and college. Students examine numerous research-basedlearning strategies that are proven to lead to academic success such asgoal setting, effective time management, handling stress, note-taking,active reading, test-taking strategies, and conducting research. CollegeTransition course provides the means and training for students to locatefinancial scholarships and grant opportunities, complete applications,and explore technical schools, colleges, and universities. With theincreased emphasis on post secondary education and the developmentof college readiness standards, his course serves to help students in theirpreparation for the rigor of post secondary education.7412 BUSINESS INFORMATION MANAGEMENT ILowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRecommendation: Touch System Data EntryRank: NoneThis course is designed to allow students to apply technical skillsin addressing the personal and business applications of emergingtechnologies. The course focuses on the application of word processing,spreadsheet and database technology. With appropriate supervision,students exchange information via telecommunications; desktoppublishing and presentation management. Students learn to identifythe concepts of a computer network and analyze computer operatingsystems. This course also provides a foundation for additional businesscourses. NOTE: This course satisfies the Technology Applicationsgraduation requirement. This course may meet the requirements for(MOS) Microsoft Office Specialist certification.7413 BUSINESS COMPUTER INFORMATIONMANAGEMENT /ADVANCEMENT VIA INDIVIDUALDETERMINATION(AVID) IIILowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Communications App./AVID I, PREP, AVID IIRecommendation: 1/2 Credit of KeyboardingRank: NoneThis program is designed for third year AVID student who are preparingto meet four year college entrance requirements by mastering collegepreparatory curricula that uses AVID strategies which enhances PSATPreparation with the use of College Board. NOTE: This course satisfiesthe Technology Applications graduation requirement. This coursemay meet the requirements for (MOS) Microsoft Office Specialistcertification.7422 BUSINESS INFORMATION MANAGEMENT IILowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRecommendation: Touch System Data EntryRank: NoneThis course is designed for students to learn to analyze and implementappropriate technology as tools to address business needs. Students enhancereading, writing, computing, communication and reasoning skills in orderto apply them to the business environment. This course is designed todevelop student’s ability to use advanced computer skills and the Internetfor research. It includes workplace technology standards in applicationsof word processing, spreadsheets, databases, telecommunications, desktoppublishing, presentation management, web mastering, networking, operatingsystems and emerging technologies. Students will explore business andcomputer related careers as well as prepare a personal portfolio. Studentswill work individually and in teams using critical thinking and problemsolving skills to prepare them for the transition to the workplace. NOTE: Thiscourse satisfies the Technology Applications graduation requirement. Thiscourse may meet the requirements for (MOS) Microsoft Office Specialistcertification.7434 DIGITAL & INTERACTIVE MEDIALowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course will teach students to recognize, evaluate and prepare fora rapidly evolving global business environment that requires flexibilityand adaptability. Students will develop proficiencies in designing,importing and manipulating advanced text, graphics, audio and videoused in presentation management, multimedia productions, publishingsystems and emerging technologies. Students will enhance reading,writing computing,communications and reasoning skills and apply themto the business environment. NOTE: This course satisfies the TechnologyApplication credit requirement for graduation and may also meet therequirement for Adobe Dream Weaver certification.7451 Principles of Business, Marketing and FinanceLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NoneIn Principles of business marketing, and Finance , students gain knowledgeand skills in economics and private enterprise systems, the impact of globalbusiness, marketing of goods and services, advertising, and product pricing.Students analyze,the sales process and financial management principles. Thiscourse allows students to reinforce, apply, and transfer academic knowledgeand skills to variety of interesting and relevant activities, problems and settingin business, marketing and finance.7452 TELECOMMUNICATIONS AND NETWORKINGLowestGrade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneThis course covers all the necessary curriculum for CompTIA’s A+certified professional PC technician, an international certification.Students study software, learn WXP, Windows 7 and W2003 Server.Skills in networking and fixing printers are also incorporated. Thiscourse is a two-hours block. It is a dual-enrollment course with STC.Twelve college hours can be earned, which is equivalent to three DAPmeasures. Taught at McHi. Transportation by school bus required. Note:This course satisfies the Technology Application graduation requirement.Students must apply and be accepted.7461 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)BUSINESS INFORMATION MANAGEMENT ILowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed for students to learn to analyze and implementappropriate technology as tools to address business needs. Students enhancereading, writing, computing, communication and reasoning skills in orderto apply them to the business environment. This course is designed todevelop student’s ability to use advanced computer skills and the Internetfor research. It includes workplace technology standards in applicationsof word processing, spreadsheets, databases, telecommunications, desktoppublishing, presentation management, web mastering, networking, operatingsystems and emerging technologies. Students will explore business andcomputer related careers as well as prepare a personal portfolio. Studentswill work individually and in teams using critical thinking and problemsolving skills to prepare them for the transition to the workplace. NOTE: Thiscourse satisfies the Technology Applications graduation requirement. Thiscourse may meet the requirements for (MOS) Microsoft Office Specialistcertification.7462 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)Business Information ManagementLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed for students to learn to analyze and implementappropriate technology as tools to address business needs. Students enhancereading, writing, computing, communication and reasoning skills in orderto apply them to the business environment. This course is designed todevelop student’s ability to use advanced computer skills and the Internetfor research. It includes workplace technology standards in applicationsof word processing, spreadsheets, databases, telecommunications, desktopPage 29publishing, presentation management, web mastering, networking, operatingsystems and emerging technologies. Students will explore business andcomputer related careers as well as prepare a personal portfolio. Studentswill work individually and in teams using critical thinking and problemsolving skills to prepare them for the transition to the workplace. NOTE: Thiscourse satisfies the Technology Applications graduation requirement. Thiscourse may meet the requirements for (MOS) Microsoft Office Specialistcertification.7472/7474 PRACTICUM BUSINESS MANAGEMENT I & IILowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1-3Rank: NoneStudents enrolled in this one-hour class work part-time in anoffice within the business community. Class instruction includesword processing,database management, electronic spreadsheets,telecommunications,graphics and desktop publishing. To qualify forthis program, a student must be 16 years old, have a good attendancerecord and demonstrate personal traits which make the studentemployable. All students in this course participate in work-basedcomponent that requires at least 15 hours a week of on-the-job trainingat an approved business training station. NOTE: This course satisfiesthe Technology Applications graduation requirement. This course maymeet the requirements for (MOS) Microsoft Office Specialist certification.7321 GLOBAL BUSINESSLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1/2Rank: NoneStudents implement personal and interpersonal skills to strengthenindividual performance in the workplace and in society and to makea successful transition to the workforce and postsecondary education.Students apply technical skills to address global business applicationsof emerging technologies. Students develop a foundation in theeconomical, financial,technological, international, social, and ethicalaspects of business to become competent consumers, employees,and entrepreneurs. Students enhance reading, writing, computing,communication, and reasoning skills and apply them to the businessenvironment.8632 PRINCIPLES OF BUSINESS MARKETING &FINANCE (CTED-PREP)Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is required for graduation from M.I.S.D. It utilizes collegesuccess skills, SCANS skills, and reinforces computer technologynecessary for success in the workplace or college. A career interestand aptitude survey are used while decision making in the selectionof colleges and/or vocations is stressed. Students develop theirown personal learning style,manage time and money, read textbooksfor maximum learning, develop effective note taking, test taking(SAT strategies) , and critical thinking skills. Verbal and writtencommunication skills necessary for job applications and interviewsare learned. Computers are used to reinforce instruction and studentsbecome familiar with a variety of software applications includingscanning, e-mail, internet and portfolio development. NOTE: Thiscourse serves the identified student by an ARD Committee. This coursedoes not satisfy the technology applications credit requirement underany graduation plan.


Page 308642 CTED BUSINESS INFORMATION MANAGEMENT ILowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course is designed to allow students to apply technical skillsin addressing the personal and business applications of emergingtechnologies. The course focuses on the application of word processing,spreadsheet and database technology. With appropriate supervision,students exchange information via telecommunications; desktoppublishing and presentation management. Students learn to identifythe concepts of a computer network and analyze computer operatingsystems. This course also provides a foundation for additional businesscourses. NOTE: This course satisfies the Technology Applicationsgraduation requirement. This course may satisfy the requirements forMAS Certification. This course serves the identified student by an ARDCommittee. NOTE: This course satisfies the Technology Applicationsgraduation requirement.7311 BUSINESS LAWLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Rank: NoneStudents analyze the social responsibility of business and industryregarding the significant issues relating to the legal environment,business ethics,torts, contracts, negotiable financial instruments,personal property, sales,warranties business organization, concept ofagency and employment, and real property. Students apply technicalskills to address business applications of contemporary legal issues.Students incorporate a broad base of knowledge that includes the legal,managerial, marketing, financial, ethical and international dimensionsof business to make appropriate business decisions.7532 ENTREPRENEURSHIPLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Rank: NoneThis course is designed to focus on those marketing and managerialfunctions which are critical to owning and operating a business.Application of broad marketing and management concepts andknowledge is provided through the development of marketing, financialand management plans for a business.7552 PRACTICUM MARKETING DYNAMICS (CO-OP 1 )Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1-3Rank: NoneThis course is designed to offer students an enhanced, comprehensiveand rigorous approach to the study of marketing. Students begin withthe foundations necessary for success in the marketplace. They learnsimilarities and differences between business and marketing and theimpact of society on business. They explore the impact of internationalmarketing. Students develop interpersonal skills, research employmenttrends and prepare for marketing careers. All students in this courseparticipate in the work-based component that requires at least 15hours a week of on-the-job training at an approved marketing trainingstation. Economics, math and communication concepts are integratedthroughout the course. NOTE: This course may meet the requirementsto satisfy a CPR certificate,Food Handler’s Permit, and customer servicetraining certificate.7554 PRACTICUM MARKETING DYNAMICS II (CO-OP 2 )Lowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1-3Rank: NoneThis course is designed to emphasize day-to-day management functionsperformed by marketing professionals. The course focuses on applyingknowledge and skills learned in previous marketing education coursesto management-oriented challenges. Students in this course analyzethe impact of marketing on the global economy and apply economicconcepts to responsibilities of marketing management and internationalmarketing. All students in this course participate in the work-basedcomponent that requires at least 15 hours a week of on-the-job trainingat an approved marketing training station. Math, communications andinterpersonal skills are integrated throughout the course. NOTE:This course may meet the requirements to satisfy a CPR certificate, FoodHandler’s Permit, and customer service training certificate.7562/7564 CAREER PREPARATION I & IILowest Grade Placement: 11-12Credit: 1-3Rank: NoneThis course is a work-based learning experience designed to provideclassroom instructional activities related to on-the-job trainingexperiences. Specific on-the-job training will be provided throughthe use of a training plan developed by the cooperative educationcoordinator/teacher and the training station supervisor in areas thatare compatible with the student’s career goals. Safety instructions andappropriate employability skills will be included. NOTE: This coursemay meet the requirements to satisfy a CPR certificate, Food Handler’sPermit, and customer service training certificate.HEALTH SCIENCES3172 ANATOMY & PHYSIOLOGYLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, and PhysicsRank: HonorsThis course is the study of the structures and functions of thecomponents of the human body. This course is designed to build aknowledge base for those students who wish to pursue a medicallyrelated career. Laboratory investigations will include at least onemajor dissection(usually a cat), microscopic studies and physiologyinvestigations. Lecture includes the physiology of each organ system.Students may attend presentations and lectures on related subjects orfield trips to health care facilities. Students are expected to participatein group projects and complete outside research. Students shouldconsult their college of choice to determine whether or not Anatomyand Physiology will satisfy entry requirements.7812 PRINCIPLES OF HEALTH SCIENCESLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRecommendation: BiologyRank: NoneThis course is designed to give students an overview of thetherapeutic,diagnostic, environmental and information systems of thehealth care industry. The focus is on career exploration, leadershipdevelopment, ethical and legal issues and history, economics andtrends in financing health care. Students develop a concept of healthand wellness from the perspective of a consumer as well as a potentialprofessional in the health care industry. This course may be used tosatisfy the requirements for First Aid and CPR certification.7822 MEDICAL TERMINOLOGY (MEDTERM)Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2Rank: NoneA course designed to develop a working knowledge of the languageof medicine. Students acquire word-building skills by learningprefixes,suffixes, roots, and abbreviations. By relating terms tobody systems,students identify proper use of the words in a medicalenvironment. Knowledge of medical terminology enhances the studentability to successfully secure employment or pursue advanced educationin health care.7832 HEALTH SCIENCES CLINICAL ROTATIONLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Recommendation: HST 1 and BiologyRank: NoneThis two-hour pre-employment lab course includes development andapplication of skills in the classroom and/or clinical setting. Studentsreceive classroom instruction, and then in their clinical rotations, theyspend time in local hospitals observing and participating in activitiesconducted in various departments. At the clinical rotation site, studentshave the opportunity to observe, and, when appropriate, they actuallyassist many types of health care professionals. This course is a 2 periodclass. NOTE: Students have some expenses for this class.7841 PRACTICUM HEALTH SCIENCE ( PHARMACOLOGY)Lowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 2Recommendation: Health Science IRank: NoneThis course provided students with knowledge and skills in theclassification and study of pharmacological agents to understand thetreatment, care, and restoration of the client’s health. Students willexplore the practical applications of mathematics related to the diseaseprocess, dosage calculators, and interaction. Note: This course may meetrequirements for pharmacy technician certificate.HUMAN SERVICES7602 PRINCIPLES OF HUMAN SERVICESLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course is a comprehensive laboratory course designed to addressabroad range of knowledge and skills related to personal developmentand management, promotion of strong families, and preparation for adultroles. Content includes a focus on interpersonal skills; decision-making;promotion of family strengths and well-being; developing positiverelationships with peers; child development and care; and clothingselections and maintenance. Other studies address nutrition and dietarypractices; food selection and preparation; budgeting and consumerbuyingpractices; and management of housing needs. Influences ofsocietal and technological changes, career options, and the managementof multiple family, community, and career roles are included. Studentsmust complete a career connection project each semester of enrollment.NOTE: Students have some expenses for class projects. Students whohave received credit for Lifetime Nutrition & Wellness are not permittedto enroll in this course. Students must complete a career connectionproject each semester of enrollment.7611 FASHION DESIGNLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course is designed as a technical laboratory to focus on apparelfrom the perspectives of personal decision making related to apparel, theapparel industry, and career preparation. Topics include managing theapparel dollar, apparel repair and alteration, and wardrobe planning, care,and maintenance. Quality apparel construction is addressed as it relatesto consumer decision making and career preparation for the apparelindustry. Other content addresses career options and managementpractices for assuming multiple family, community, and career roles.Students must complete a career connection project. NOTE: Studentshave some expenses for class projects.7621 LIFETIME NUTRITION & WELLNESSLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course is designed as a technical laboratory concentrating onnutrition, food choices, and food management skills for individuals andthe family throughout the life cycle. Instruction addresses nutritionand food science from the perspective of food habits and wellness, menuplanning,special dietary needs, food costs and budgeting: consumerfood-buying strategies; food safety and sanitation procedures; foodlabels; technology implications; food handling, storage, and preparationpractices. Meal etiquette; career options; and techniques for managingmultiple family,community, and career roles are part of the content.Students must complete a career connection project. NOTE: Thiscourse may be used to meet the requirements for a food handler permit.


7623 FOOD SCIENCELowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: 7621 Lifetime Nutrition & WellnessBiology, Chemistry, and PhysicsThis course is designed as a technical laboratory to provide foundationtraining in the area of food service and technology. Content addressesfood science principles; nutrition and wellness; food technology; worldfood supply; managing multiple family, community, and career roles;and career options in nutrition, food science, and food technology.Instructional topics include diet-related disorders, diet appropriateto the life cycle and other factors, therapeutic diets, chemical andphysical changes that affect food product quality, techniques used infood processing and product development, food safety and sanitationstandards, market research, legal issues, and food policies. Laboratoryactivities utilizing research methods related to current issues in foodscience, technology, and nutrition are included Students must completea career connection project. NOTE: This course may be used to meetthe requirements for a food handler permit and this course satisfies the4th Science graduation requirement and carries a CP ranking.7651 CHILD GUIDANCELowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1/2Rank: NoneThis course is a technical laboratory class designed to provide individualsopportunities to develop knowledge and skills in preparation to functioneffectively in the role of parent or care-giver. Content stresses parentalresponsibilities; child guidance techniques; parents as positive rolemodels; parents as their children’s first teacher; and parenting practiceswhich promote a child’s development, health, safety, and well-being.Managing family crisis, managing multiple roles of family membersthroughout the life cycle, and career preparation are additional topics.Students must complete a career connection project. NOTE: This coursemay be used to meet the requirements for a CPR certificate.7653 CHILD DEVELOPMENTLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRecommendation: Principles of Human ServicesRank: NoneThis course is designed as a technical laboratory to focus on knowledge andskills related to the development, care, guidance, and protection of children.Instruction addresses the principles and procedures for promoting thephysical, emotional, social, and intellectual development of young children,including those with special needs. Other topics include characteristicsof quality child care, career options related to the care and education ofchildren, and the management of multiple family, community,and careerroles. Students must complete a career connection project. NOTE: Thiscourse may be used to meet the requirements for a CPR certificate.7681 PRACTICUM IN EDUCATION & TRAININGLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Recommendation: Child Guidance or Child DevelopmentRank: NonePracticum in Education Training (PET) is a field-based internship whichprovides students a background knowledge of child and adolescentdevelopment principles as well effective teaching practices. Students enrolledin the PET course, which is offered as a two-hour blocked course,work underthe joint direction and supervision of both Family and Consumer ScienceTeachers and elementary and secondary educators. Students plan and directindividualized instruction, group activities, prepare instructional materials,assist with record keeping, make physical arrangements, and completeother responsibilities of classroom teachers. The students are involved inobservations as well as direct student instruction; placement rotations areutilized to allow students to have experiences in a full range of educationcareer roles, grade levels, subject areas, and ability groups. On a weeklybasis, students enrolled in the RST course are involved in instruction fromthe Family and Consumer Science Teacher as well as supervised field-basedobservations, application of education principles,and CPR certification.NOTE: Students have some expenses for class projects.7692 PRACTIUM IN HUMAN SERVICES (CO-OP) ILowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneThis course is designed to develop essential knowledge and skills through acombination of school-based technical instruction and work-based trainingin approved family and consumer sciences occupationally specific trainingareas. Approved training areas include services for older adults; child careand guidance, management and services; food production, management andservices; hospitality services; instructional maintenance management andservices; textile and apparel production, management, and services;housing,furnishings and equipment production, management, and services;andfamily and consumer sciences production, management, and services.All students are encouraged to participate in FCCLA.7694 PRACTICUM IN HUMAN SERVICES (CO-OP) IILowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 3Rank: NoneThis course is designed to develop essential knowledge and skillsthrough a combination of school-based technical instruction andwork-based training in approved family and consumer sciencesoccupationally-specific training areas. Approved training areas includeservices for older adults; child care and guidance, management andservices; food production, management and services; hospitalityservices; instructional maintenance management and services; textile andapparel production, management, and services;housing, furnishingsand equipment production, management and services;and family andconsumer sciences production, management and services. All studentsare encouraged to participate in FCCLA. NOTE: This course may beused to meet requirements for a CPR certificate and a Food Handler’sPermit.7712 HOSPITALITY SERVICESLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneThis course provides occupationally specific training in hotel andrestaurant operations. Students will receive hands-on education in mostareas of a full-service hotel and will be exposed to a wide-range of careeropportunities at every level of the profession. NOTE: This course may beused to meet the requirements for a CPR certificate and a Food Handler’sPermit. Taught at Memorial /Transportation by school bus required.7740 Culinary ArtsLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 2Recommened Prerequisite: Lifetime Nutrition and WellnessRank: NoneThis course provides occupational specific training to develop knowledgeand skills for employment and or entry into post-secondary education inthe area of food production. Culinary Arts begins with the fundamentalsand principles of the art of cooking and the science of baking andincludes management and production skills and techniques. Students areencouraged to participate in Family Career and Community Leaders ofAmerica. This course is taught at Memorial <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>. Transportationby bus is required. Note: Students have the opportunity to pursue theServSafe Certified Professional Manager National Certification, as wellas the a City of <strong>McAllen</strong> Food Handler’s certification.7902 COSMETOLOGY 1Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 3Rank: NoneThis three-hour course is designed to include one hour of theory andtwo hours of shop practice daily. Students are trained in sterilizationand sanitation processes, shampooing and rinsing hair, applicationof conditioning creams and color rinses, application of scalp andhair treatments, shaping and thinning hair, hairstyling, permanentwaving, hair coloring, manicuring, facials, massage and facial makeupas prescribed by the Texas Department of licensing and regulation.Because this is a two-year, six-credit program, students must plan forPage 31and have available in their high school program the six elective creditsrequired for completion of the Cosmetology training. Taught at McHi/ Transportation by school bus required.7904 COSMETOLOGY 2Lowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 3Rank: NoneThis course is a continuation of Cosmetology I with emphasis onproficiency in all operations and techniques. Students completing thefull two-year course (1500 hours) are eligible to take the State Boardof Cosmetology examination and receive a cosmetology license if thescore is satisfactory. Taught at McHi / Transportation by school busrequired. NOTE: This course may satisfy the requirements for careersafe training for general industry certification.7951 LAW ENFORCEMENTLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course is designed as the study of the Criminal Justice System(Police,Courts, and Corrections). This course is the overview ofthe nature and impact of crime, and of the Criminal Justice Systemwith emphasis on police procedure, court and trial procedures, andcorrectional and penal overview. Introduction to Criminal Justicereinforces the Texas Essential of Knowledge and Skill (TEKS)objectives to reinforce higher order thinking skills. This course canbe part of a Tech Prep coherent sequence in Criminal Justice withappropriate approval. NOTE: This course may meet the requirementsfor CPR certification and Phase I Written of Driver’s Ed.7952 PRINCIPLES OF LAW ENFORCEMENTLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course studies the overview and development of Criminal Law.Instruction will include the classification of crime, concepts anddefinitions of crime and the constitutional limitation in our Americancourt system. The course concentrates on Texas Law and Texas statutesand also reinforces the Texas Essential of Knowledge and skills (TEKS)objectives to reinforce higher order thinking skills. This course canbe part of a Tech. Prep coherent sequence in Criminal Justice withappropriate approval.7953 FORENSIC SCIENCELowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Biology, Chemistry, and PhysicsForensic Science is a course that uses a structured and scientific approachto the investigation of crimes of assault, abuse, and neglect, domesticviolence, accidental death, homicide, and the psychology of criminalbehavior. Students will learn terminology and investigative proceduresrelated to crime scene, questioning, interviewing, criminal behaviorcharacteristics, truth detection, and scientific procedures used to solvecrimes. Using scientific methods, students will collect and analyzeevidence through case studies and simulated crime scenes such asfingerprint analysis,ballistics, and blood splatter analysis. Students willlearn the history, legal aspects, and career options for forensic science.NOTE: This course satisfies the 4th Science graduation requirementand carries a CP ranking.


Page 327955 PRACTICUM IN LAW, PUBLIC SAFETY, CORRECTIONS,AND SECURITYLowest grade Place: 12Credit: 2Prerequisite: Principles of Law EnforcementThis course is designed to give students supervised practical applicationof previously studied knowledge and skills. This course also provides anoverview of security elements and types of organizations with a focuson security measures used to protect lives, property, and proprietaryinformation. This course is being taught at <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> andbus transportation is required. NOTE: Students enrolled in this coursewill have the opportunity to receive a Level I Officer Training Certificatewhen student turns eighteen years old. This certificate is endorsed byTexas Department of Public Safety.INDUSTRIAL AND ENGINEERINGTECHNOLOGY8122 ENGINEERING DESIGN & PRESENTATIONLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Recommendation: Principles of Manufacturing or Graphic Design&IllustrationRank: NoneThis technical course is designed to provide instruction inlettering,engineering geometry, multi-view drawings, sectioning,pictorial representation, dimensioning, detail and assembly drawings,reproduction of drawings, and selection of equipment and supplies. Thiscourse is recommended for students interested in any area of engineering.Applications: Civil, Electrical, Mechanical, Automotive, Aerospace andEnvironmental Engineering.8132 PRINCIPALS OF ARCHITECTURE &CONSTRUCTIONLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis technical course is designed to provide instruction in principlesof residential design, architectural styles and construction practices.Activities focus on the development of original working drawings,presentation drawings and model building. This course is recommendedfor students interested in any area of architecture. Applications:Construction, Structural Analyst, Project Estimation, GeneralContractors, and Auto Desk Revit.8152 PRINCIPALS OF MANUFACTURINGLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis overview course is designed to introduce students to the applicationof technology to solve problems and meet human needs and wants.Laboratory experiences focus on the technology systems of bio-relatedtechnology, communication, computer applications, construction,energy,power, transportation and manufacturing. Students study concepts oftechnological systems and the influences these systems have at home,in communities and at work. The content of the course includes, butis not limited to, the study of systems of technology, application oftechnology,design/problem solving, evolving technologies, safety,maintenance,entrepreneurship, leadership, careers and marketing.Taught at Rowe /Transportation by school bus required. NOTE: Thiscourse is not open to students who have had Technology Education inmiddle school.8162 PRINCIPALS OF MANUFACTURING (MODULAR)Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite:Rank: NoneTechnology Systems Modular is an elective that satisfies the computerapplications credit for graduation. Modules requito explore and solveproblems in the following technologists and Energy Video ProductionAlternate Energy Road Transportation Engineering Structures DesktopPublishing Waste Management Aerospace Multimedia ProductionElectronics & Control Systems Communications Aerodynamic DesignConstruction & CAD Computer Aided Design Taught at Memorial &McHi. Transportation by school bus required.8172 FLEXIBLE MANUFACTURINGLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Recommendation: Principles of ManufacturingRank: NoneThis technical course is designed to enhance understanding of variousmetallic and nonmetallic materials, processes and products. Materialsstudied may include polymers, ceramics, woods, composites andmetals. Experiences include safety instruction and exposure to toolsand machines associated with manufacturing. Mathematical andscientific concepts are stressed as students study various processes usedfor transforming materials into products. Students study the design ofproducts, quality control, design of production tooling, machine toolsetups and manufacturing .systems. Taught at Rowe/Transportation byschool bus required.8182 CONSTRUCTION TECHNOLOGYLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Recommendation: Principles of ManufacturingRank: NoneThis research activity course is designed to allow students to developan advanced technical knowledge and skills in solving problemsin one or more of the technology systems of Communications,Manufacturing,Construction, Bio-Related Technology, Energy, Power,and/or Transportation. Student will select a problem, research theproblem, develop a portfolio about his/her problem and its solution,design, construct, and test his/her solution to the problem, and presenthis/her results via a multimedia presentation to the class, administrators,or the teacher. The student may even apply for a parent if his/her product(solution) is a success. This is the third course in a sequential set ofcourses: Technology Systems,Manufacturing Technology, and Problemsand Solutions in Technology. NOTE: Taught @ Rowe. Transportationby school bus required.8332 COLLISION REPAIR AND REFINISHINGLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneThis first-year, two-hour classroom/shop program is designed to provideinstruction in safety, welding, auto body repair, spray painting andfinishing. Taught at Memorial / Transportation by school bus required.8334 ADVANCED COLLISION REPAIR AND REFINISHINGLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 2Collision Repair & RefinishingRank: NoneThis second-year, two-hour course is designed to offer more advancedin-depth study of the topics studied in Auto Collision I. Studentsdevelop sufficient knowledge for entry into a post-secondary vocational/technical school or apprentice level employment. Taught at Memorial/Transportation by school bus required.8342 AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY(SUSPENSION &BRAKES)Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneM<strong>ISD</strong>/STC Automotive Technology Certificate and Associate AppliedScience Program. This course is designed to prepare students foremployment in the high technology automotive service industry.Students will gain knowledge in automotive air conditioning,electrical systems,fuel injection, transmissions and trans axles, engineperformance, brake systems, steering and suspension systems, andcomputerized automotive control systems. Emphasis will be placed on“hands-on” learning in the labs to develop diagnostic, troubleshooting,and repair procedure skills. Taught at McHi. Transportation by schoolbus required.8344 ADVANCED AUTOMOTIVE TECHNOLOGY (E&E-ENGINE & ELECTRONICS)Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneThis course is designed to prepare students for employment in the hightechnology automotive service industry. Students will gain knowledgein automotive air conditioning, electrical systems, fuel injection,transmissions and trans axles, engine performance, brake systems,steering and suspension systems, and computerized automotive controlsystems. Emphasis will be placed on “hands-on” learning in the labs todevelop diagnostic,troubleshooting, and repair procedure skills. Taughtat Mc<strong>High</strong>. Transportation by school bus required.8382 ELECTRONICSLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneM<strong>ISD</strong>/STC Electronic and Computer Technology Program. TheElectronic and Computer Technology Associate of Applied ScienceProgram covers a wide range of subjects from basic to advancedelectronics, to computer soft ware and hardware operation. The classesare based on lecture and laboratory work, giving students “hands-on”experience in practical electronic circuits utilizing different types ofelectronic test equipment. Upon successful completion of Electronic andComputer Technology I ,students may earn up to eight (8) STC collegecredit hours while graduates of this STC 71 credit hour certificateprogram are eligible and prepared for the many high tech jobs that dealwith electronic service centers,telecommunication companies, andcomputer servicing companies. Taught at STC Technology Center/Transportation by <strong>School</strong> bus required.STC-CETT 1449 DIGITALSYSTEMS: This is a course in electronics covering digital systems.Emphasis is placed on application and troubleshooting digital systemsusing counters, registers code converters, multiplexers, analog-to-digitalto-analog circuits, and large scale integrated circuits.STC-CPMT1403 INTRODUCTION TO COMPUTER TECHNOLOGY This is afundamental computer course that provides in-depth explanation of theprocedures to utilize hardware and software. Emphasis is placed onterminology, acronyms, and hands-on activities.8432 WELDINGLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 2Rank: NoneThis pre-employment laboratory course is designed to provide jobtraining for entry level employment as a welder or an employee in awelding-related field. The two-hour program of instruction emphasizesoxy-acetylene welding, oxy-acetylene cutting, shielded metal arcwelding (stick arc), gas metal arc welding (mig). Safety and anexploration of career opportunities in the field are also studied. Taughtat McHi / Transportation by school bus required.8434 ADVANCED WELDINGLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 2Prerequisite: Welding 1Rank: NoneThis course is a continuation of Welding 1. It provides advanced jobtraining for entry level employment as a welder or as an employee ina welding-related field. It includes instruction in blueprint reading,welding fabrication,and tungsten gas welding (tig). Safety and careerexploration are also studied. Taught at McHi. Transportation by schoolbus required.8542 PRECISION MACHINING TECHNOLOGYLowest grade Place: 11Credit: 2Recommendation: engineering Design and PresentationRank: NoneThis course will help prepare students to assist engineers who installindustrial controls, troubleshoot hydraulic equipment problems,and reduce manufacturing downtime. Students will participate in anapprentice (intern) component that will allow students to experience,first hand, industrial systems in the work place. Students enrolled in


this course will receive an introduction to Machining Mathematics,Machining I, Precision Tools and Measurement, Drafting for SpecificOccupations, Capstone: Intermediate Machining I, Shop Safety andProcedures, and Computer Numerical Controls. This course is taught atSTC Technology Center. Transportation by school bus is required. Note:After completion of a 36 hour program of which this is the first course,a student may have the opportunity to receive the NIMS certification(National Institute of Metalworking Skills). NIMS is an internationallyrecognized certificate.8562 Architectural DesignLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 2Prerequisite: STC AdmissionRank: NoneThis course is designed to provide instruction in the beginning awarenessof drafting courses. Emphasis is on sketching, lettering, dimensions,line development, safety and career opportunities. Taught at STC/Transportation by school bus required.8564 ADVANCED Architectural DesignLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 2Prerequisite: STC AdmissionRank: NoneThis course is designed to provide instruction in the beginning awarenessof drafting courses. Emphasis is on sketching, lettering, dimensions,line development, safety and career opportunities. Taught at STC/Transportation by school bus required.FINE ARTSThe following courses satisfy the Fine Arts credit for theRecommended <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Program:ArtDance/FATheater ArtsTechnical TheaterTheater ProductionSymphonic BandConcert BandSymphonic OrchestraPhilharmonic Orchestra Wind Ensemble 1-4Concert Chorale/Choir Ensemble/GuitarTenor /Bass ChoirEnsemble ClassTreble Choir Music Theory 1Ensemble Show Choir Repertory Orchestra6411 ART LEVEL 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis comprehensive course provides the foundation for all subsequenthigh school art courses. It introduces basic knowledge and skills throughfocus on perception, creative expression/performance, historical andcultural heritage and critical evaluation. Students’ creative expressionis fostered through the mediums of pencil, pen, ink, charcoal, tempera,watercolor and sculpture.NOTE: This is a two semester course with the first semester beinga prerequisite for the second. Portfolio development is part of theevaluation process.6421/6425 ART LEVEL 2Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Art 1Rank: NoneThis course is at an intermediate level. It expands on basic knowledgeand skills through focus on perception, creative expression/performance, historical and cultural heritage and critical evaluation.Students’ personal style is developed through drawing, painting,sculpture or print making.NOTE: This is a two semester course with the first semester beinga prerequisite for the second. Portfolio development is part of theevaluation process.6431/6436 ART LEVEL 3Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Art 2Rank: NoneThis advanced course is for serious art students. They explore artconcepts through perception, creative expression/performance,historical and cultural heritage, and critical evaluation. Ideas aredeveloped and communicated through drawing, painting, sculpture orprint making as students are introduced to possible art-based careers.NOTE: This is a two semester course with the first semester beinga prerequisite for the second. Portfolio development is part of theevaluation.6435 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)VISUAL ARTS SL-ALowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NonePrerequisite: IB EnrollmentThis one-year course is designed to meet the standard level and 1 st yearof the higher level Arts and Electives requirement for the IB Diploma.This course includes opportunities for practice in the use of variousmedia and the acquisition of studio techniques, and introduction anddevelopment of basic art concepts, ways of extending research intopractical work, an introduction and expansion of the practice of artcriticism and analysis, and an opportunity to relate art to its socioculturaland historical contexts. These core elements will be focusedaround studio work and research workbooks. Students complete 70%studio work and 30% research workbooks which are internally assessedand externally moderated. This course prepares students for the IBVisual Arts SLA Exam. College credit may be granted for scores onthis exam. NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talented student.6439 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)VISUAL ARTS SL - BLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NonePrerequisite: IB EnrollmentThis one-year course is designed to meet the Standard Level Artsand Electives requirement for the IB Diploma. This course includesopportunities for practice in the use of various media and the acquisitionof studio techniques, an introduction and development of basic artconcepts, ways of extending research into practical work, an introductionand expansion of the practice of art criticism and analysis, and anopportunity to relate art to its sociol-cultural and historical contexts.These core elements will be focus around studio work and researchworkbooks. Students complete 30% studio work and 70% researchworkbooks which are internally assessed and externally moderated.This course prepares students for the IB Visual Arts SLA Exam. Collegecredit may be granted for scores on this exam. NOTE: This advancedcourse serves the identified gifted/talented student.6441/6446 ART LEVEL 4Lowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: Art 3Rank: NoneThis advanced course is for students considering an art-related career.They explore art concepts through perception, creative expression/performance, historical and cultural heritage and critical evaluation.Independent work is emphasized in the development and completionof portfolios through drawing, painting, sculpture or print making.NOTE: This is a two semester course with the first semester being aprerequisite for the second. Portfolio is part of the evaluation.Page 336445 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)VISUAL ARTS HLLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: IB Visual Arts 6435Rank: NoneThis one-year course is designed to meet the second year of the Artsand Electives requirement for the IB Diploma. This course includesopportunities for practice in the use of various media and the acquisitionof studio techniques, an introduction and development of basic artconcepts, ways of extending research into practical work, an introductionand expansion of the practice of art criticism and analysis, and anopportunity to relate art to its socio-cultural and historical contexts.These core elements will be focused around studio work and researchworkbooks. Students will complete 70% studio work and 30% researchworkbooks with are internally assessed and externally moderated. Thiscourse prepares students for the IB Visual Arts <strong>High</strong>er Level Exam.College credit may be granted for scores on this exam. NOTE: Thisadvanced course serves the identified gifted/talented student.6452 ART ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)2 DIMENSIONAL DESIGN PORTFOLIOCONCURRENT ENROLLMENTLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Art 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed as an independent study for serious art studentswith periodic guidance from the instructor. The focus is on developing acredible 2 dimensional design portfolio based on the individual student’sinterests and strengths. Emphasis is on perception, creative expressionand critical evaluation. Students are evaluated on manipulation ofmaterials, effort, product and artistic growth. Portfolio required.Students must take the AP Exam to meet standards as outlined by theCollege Board.6453 ART ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP)3 DIMENSIONAL DESIGN PORTFOLIOLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Art 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed as an independent study for serious art studentswith periodic guidance from the instructor. The focus is on developing acredible 3 dimensional design portfolio based on the individual student’sinterests and strengths. Emphasis is on perception, creative expressionand critical evaluation. Students are evaluated on manipulationof materials, effort, product and artistic growth. Portfolio required.Students must take the AP Exam to meet standards as outlined by theCollege Board.6454 ART ADVANCED PLACEMENT (AP) DRAWINGLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Art 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed as an independent study for serious art studentswith periodic guidance from the instructor. The focus is on refinementof the individual student’s knowledge and skill in drawing. Emphasisis on perception, creative expression, and critical evaluation. Studentsare evaluated on manipulation of materials, effort, product and artisticgrowth. Portfolio required. Students must take the AP Exam to meetstandards as outlined by the College Board. AP credit for this coursemay only be earned once.


Page 346481/6484 Dance / FA 1-4Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 - 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course introduces dance as an art form through focus on perception,creative expression/performance, historical and cultural heritage andcritical evaluation. Students’ creative expression is fostered throughkinesthetic awareness/skill development, introduction to various danceforms and choreography.6511 Theater Arts 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 or 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course introduces theater arts and basic acting skills through focuson perception, creative expression/performance, historical and culturalheritage and critical evaluation. Students experience theater games,performance, interpretation of dramatic literature, technical theaterand live theater.6512/6514 Theater Arts 2-4Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Theater Arts 1 and Audition RequiredRank: NoneThese courses progressively expand theater arts knowledge and actingskills through focus on perception, creative expression/performance,historical and cultural heritage and critical evaluation. Studentsexperience diversity of genre including mime, puppetry, musical theaterand masked theater. Greater emphasis is placed on student ability toevaluate live theater.6521/6522 Technical THEATER 1-2Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Theater Arts 1 and Audition RequiredRank: NoneThese courses progressively expand theater arts knowledge and technicalskills through focus on perception, historical and cultural heritage andcritical evaluation. Students study design theory, set construction,lighting, sound, costumes, stage properties, makeup and public relations.Students experience live theater outside the classroom.6523/6524 Technical Theater 3-4Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Technical Theater Arts 1 and 2 and AuditionRequiredRank: NoneThese courses progressively expand theater arts knowledge and technicalskills for the advanced tech student through focus on perception,historical and cultural heritage and critical evaluation. Studentsstudy design theory, set construction, lighting, sound, costumes, stageproperties, makeup and public relations. Students experience live theateroutside the classroom and learn to build a portfolio.6531/6534 Theater Production 1-4Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 - 1Rank: NoneThis course emphasizes creative expression/performance through theproduction of a play for a live audience. Students are admitted byaudition, and the class meets on a schedule set outside of the regularschool day. The production involves technical theater, costumes andacting. Enrollment varies according to the production needs.6611/6614 Wind Ensemble 1-4Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and band ensemble skills inthe TEKS, primarily through performance. This is an advanced classfor band students, so membership is determined by audition and priorexperience. Sight-reading skills and technical skills are prerequisites.Activities include concerts, UIL events, region, area and all-statetryouts. Participation in marching band is required. Attendance atrehearsals outside of class and at concerts is required.6621/6624 Symphonic Band 1-4Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and band ensemble skillsin the TEKS, primarily through performance. This is an upperintermediate class for band students, so membership is determined byaudition and prior experience. Sight-reading skills and technical skillsare prerequisites. Activities include concerts, UIL events, and regiontryouts. Participation in marching band is required. Attendance atrehearsals outside of class and at concerts is required.6631/6634 Concert Band 1-4Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and band ensemble skillsin the TEKS, primarily through performance. This is an intermediateclass for band students, so membership is determined by auditionand prior experience. Sight-reading skills and technical skills areprerequisites. Activities include concerts, UIL events, and region tryouts.Participation in marching band is required. Attendance at rehearsalsoutside of class and at concerts is required.6711/6714 SYMPHONIC ORCHESTRA 1-4Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and orchestral skills in theTEKS, primarily through performance. This is an advanced class forstring students, so membership is determined by audition and priorexperience. Sight-reading skills and technical skills are prerequisites.Activities include concerts, UIL events, region, area and all-state tryouts.Attendance at rehearsals outside of class and at concerts is required.6721/6724 PHILHARMONIC ORCHESTRA 1-4Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and orchestral skills in theTEKS, primarily through performance. This is an intermediate classfor string students, so membership is determined by audition and priorexperience. Sight-reading skills and technical skills are prerequisites.Activities include concerts, UIL events, region, area and all-state tryouts.Attendance at rehearsals outside of class and at concerts is required.6731/6734 REPERTORY ORCHESTRALowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and orchestral skills in the TEKS,primarily through performance. This is an upper intermediate class for stringstudents, so membership is determined by audition and prior experience.Sight-reading skills and technical skills are prerequisites. Activities includeconcerts, UIL events, region, area and all-state tryouts. Attendance atrehearsals outside of class and at concerts is required.6811/6814 Concert Chorale/ChoirLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and vocal skills in the TEKSprimarily through performance. This is an advanced class for mixedvoices, so membership is determined by audition and prior experience.Sight-singing skills, vocal flexibility, and attendance at rehearsals outsideof class are prerequisites. Activities include concerts, U.I.L. events,region, area, and all-state tryouts. Attendance at concerts is required.6821/6824 Tenor/Bass ChoirLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and vocal skills in theTEKS primarily through performance. This is an introductory classfor adolescent male voices. Ability to match pitch, willingness towork on sight-singing and attendance at rehearsals outside of class areprerequisites. Activities include concerts and U.I.L. events. Attendanceat concerts is required.6831/6834 Treble ChoirLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and vocal skills in the TEKSprimarily through performance. This is an introductory class for treblevoices. Ability to match pitch, willingness to work on sight-singing andattendance at rehearsals outside of class are prerequisites. Activitiesinclude concerts and U.I.L. events. Attendance at concerts is required.6902 Advanced Placement (AP) Music TheoryLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Interview/Audition with instructor required andConcurrent enrollment in one of the music ensemble courses.Rank: NoneThis is a class for the advanced music student. Students will learn thebasic components of Music Theory including but not limited to keysignatures, intervals, complex rhythms, key relationships, chord analysis,and chord progressions. This class is offered for future music majorsor music minors and will be geared toward passing the Freshmen yearof music theory in college. This IS a concurrent enrollment class andstudents will be required to take the AP Music Theory Exam as outlinedby the College Board. NOTE: This advanced course serves the identifiedgifted/talented student.6900 Music TheoryLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NoneStudents will learn the basic components of Music Theory includingbut not limited to key signatures, intervals, complex rhythms, keyrelationships, chord analysis, and chord progressions.6971/6974 GuitarLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 or 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and technical skills onguitar through focus on perception, creative expression/ performance,historical and cultural heritage and critical evaluation. Sequential classesprogressively develop left and right hand technique, reading skills andrepertoire from the traditional, classical or mariachi literature.


6981/6984 ENSEMBLE CLASS (Show Choir)Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 or 1Prerequisite: Audition Required andConcurrent Enrollment in ChoraleRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and vocal skills throughfocus on perception, creative expression/performance, historical andcultural heritage and critical evaluation. Classes progressively developsinging, choreography reading skills, and repertoire from the showchoir literature.6981 Ensemble Class InstrumentalLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 or 1Prerequisite: Audition Required; Enrollment in Band, Choir, orOrchestraRank: NoneThis course develops musical knowledge and technical skills in aparticular ensemble through focus on perception, creative expression/performance, historical and cultural heritage and critical evaluation.Stage Band, Mariachi, Steel Drum band and other specialized musicalensembles can be taken as ensemble. Sequential Classes progressivelydevelop specific techniques, reading skills and literature for each genre.6961 Mariachi EnsembleLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course allows students the opportunity to learn Mariachi technique,style and interpretation. Students will learn composition and arrangingtechniques and will preform traditional progressive and contemporarymusic. Activities include UIL solo and ensemble, festivals, communityservice and civic functions.6481 Dance TeamLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Audition RequiredRank: NoneThis course is designed for the advanced dance student and forms theschool’s drill team. Student’s creative expression is fostered throughkinesthetic awareness, skill development, and will serve as anintroduction to various dance forms and choreography.OTHER LANGUAGES6012 French ILowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed to address the essential elements of French:reading, writing, speaking, listening, culture and total language. Equalemphasis is placed on both the oral and the written aspects of thelanguage.6013 MYP French 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 1st year LanguageB requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as the 2nd languagerequirement of the state of Texas. This course includes the skills ofspeaking, writing, listening, and reading in the French language. Thesetopics are focused through the five areas of interaction. This courseprepares students for the IB Diploma Program. NOTE: This advancedcourse serves the identified gifted/talented student.6022 French 2Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: French 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed to address the essential elements of French:reading, writing, speaking, listening, culture and total language. Equalemphasis is placed on both the oral and the written aspects of thelanguage. More particularly, the course includes the grammar structureof the compound tenses, the writing of compositions, and study ofFrench Civilization6023 MYP French 2Lowest Grade Placement: 9Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 2nd yearLanguage B requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as the 2ndlanguage requirement of the state of Texas. This course includes theskills of speaking, writing, listening, and reading in the French language.These topics are focused through the five areas of interaction. Thiscourse prepares students for the IB Diploma Program.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.6032 French 3Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: French 2Rank: NoneThis course is designed to enable the student to have conversations inall studied tenses. He/She will be able to read past and future narrationin all tenses and will be able to express conditions in complex sentences.Moreover, the student will be able to express emotions, wishes, andhypotheses in complex sentences. Written assignments and readingswill focus on brief historical accounts, short stories, movie reviews,painters, musicians and the French speaking cultures around the world.6035 ib French 3Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: French 2Rank: NoneThis course is designed for the student who will be able to have extendedconversations in all tenses. He/She will be able to read past and futurenarration in all tenses and will be able to express conditions in complexsentences. Moreover, the student will be able to express emotions,wishes, and hypotheses in complex sentences. Written assignmentsand readings will focus on brief historical accounts, short stories, moviereviews, painters, musicians and the geography of France.6042 french 4Lowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: French 3Rank: NoneThis course is designed for the student who has completed the thirdlevel in his study of French and who is ready to explore the languageand literature of France in greater detail. The comprehensive unitson structure and on idioms aim directly at strengthening the student’slinguistic skills. The chief purpose of the special units on word study isto expand and enrich the student’s vocabulary, making him increasinglyaware of the nuances in the French language. French will be usedthroughout all units except in instances where English may be required toexplain difficult principles or structures. The student will read a coupleof short novels and write analytical papers.6055 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)FRENCH STANDARD LEVELLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: French 3Rank: NoneThis one-year course is designed to meet the standard level or the 1 styear of the higher level Language B requirement for the IB Diploma.Page 35This course culminates with the Language B standard level exam inFrench. This course is intended for students who have a command ofthe French oral language and a high level of mastery of grammar. Thesequence includes an in-depth study of grammar integrated with thestudy of history, literature, art, music and customs of the French-speakingcountries. Students are required to complete an oral commentary thatis internally assessed and externally moderated. College credit may begranted for scores on this exam. NOTE: This advanced course servesthe identified gifted/talented student.6057 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)FRENCH HIGHER LEVELLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: IB French 6055Rank: NoneThis one-year course is designed to meet the 2 nd year higher levelLanguage B requirement for the IB Diploma. This course culminatesin the Language B higher Level Exam in French. It is intended forstudents who have a command of the French oral language and a highlevel mastery of grammar. The sequence includes an in-depth study ofgrammar integrated with the study of history, literature, art, music andcustoms of the French-speaking countries. Students are required tocomplete an oral commentary that is internally assessed and externallymoderated. College credit may be granted for scores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.6212 Spanish 1 MONLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course is designed for non-native speakers. It introduces thebasic skills of Spanish with emphasis on oral language and phonics.Listening, speaking, reading, and, writing are emphasized with focuson vocabulary development. Grammar structures and dialogues areacquired through drills. Comparisons are made among cultures withemphasis on the variety of cultures that exist in the Hispanic world.6213 MYP Spanish 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 1st year LanguageB requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as the 2nd languagerequirement of the state of Texas. This course includes the skills ofspeaking, writing, listening, and reading in the Spanish language. Thesetopics are focused through the five areas of interaction. This courseprepares students for the IB Diploma Program.NOTE: This advancedcourse serves the identified gifted/talented student.6214 Spanish 1 BilLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course is designed for students with some knowledge of theSpanish language. The major goal is to enable students to communicateeffectively orally and in written form by applying the four basic skills.It also includes vocabulary, grammatical structure, and experience inreading and writing in order to develop the ability to communicate inSpanish on topics of practical value to improve students’ abilities inthe command of the Spanish language. Instruction is conducted inSpanish with limited English support. The student will be taught toread and write in Spanish.


Page 366222 Spanish 2 MONLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Spanish 1 MRank: NoneThis course is designed for the non-native speakers. It is acontinuation of Spanish 1-M. The oral proficiency method isemphasized, and conversation, as well as survival skills, are studiedwith emphasis on Spanish grammar structure. All four basic skills arereinforced. Also, students study the cultural aspects and traditions ofHispanic countries. Students read a variety of selections. By the endof the year, non-native speakers should be able to communicate at anunderstandable level with native speakers. Instruction is conducted inSpanish and English.6223 MYP Spanish 2Lowest Grade Placement: 9Rank: MYPThis one-year advanced course is designed to meet the 2nd yearLanguage B requirement for the IB MYP Certificate, as well as the2nd language requirement of the state of Texas. This course includesthe skills of speaking, writing, listening, and reading in the Spanishlanguage. These topics are focused through the five areas of interaction.This course prepares students for the IB Diploma Program.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.6224 Spanish 2 BilLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Spanish 1 BILRank: NoneThis course is designed for Spanish-speaking students. It is acontinuation of Spanish 1BIL. Communicating effectively is a mainobjective acquired through oral proficiency methods. The four basicskills are also expanded as needed. In particular, the course includessimple and compound tenses and the writing of compositions. Also,students study the cultural background of Hispanic countries andcivilization. Instruction is conducted in Spanish only.6232 Spanish 3 MONLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Spanish 2Rank: NoneThis course is designed with emphasis on the oral proficiency method.Conversation, as well as survival skills, are studied with emphasis on theSpanish grammar structure. All four basic skills are reinforced. Also,students study the cultural aspects and traditions of Hispanic countries.Students read and study short stories and excerpts from novels. By theend of the year, non-native speakers should be able to communicateeasily with native speakers on an intermediate level.6234 Spanish 3 BilLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Spanish 2 BILRank: NoneThis course is designed to reinforce all four basic skills. Students, whonow have command of the oral language and knowledge of grammarstudied during the first two years, explore the cultural aspects andtraditions of Hispanic countries. Students will read and study shortstories, poetry and excerpts from novels. Composition, grammarand oral proficiency are also emphasized. Instruction is conducted inSpanish only.6235 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)Spanish 3Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: Spanish 2Rank: NoneThis course is designed to prepare students for the IB Spanish standardlevel class. The emphasis is on oral proficiency. Conversation aswell as survival skills are studied with emphasis on Spanish grammarstructure. All four basic skills are reinforced. Students also study thecultural aspects and traditions of Hispanic countries. Students read andstudy short stories and excerpts from novels. By the end of the year,non-native speakers should be able to communicate easily with nativespeakers on an intermediate level.6252 Advanced Placement (AP) SpanishLanguageLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1 <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>Prerequisite: Spanish 1, 2Rank: NoneThis course is designed as a college-level course which will preparestudents to take the Spanish Language Advanced PlacementExamination. This course is designed for students who have a commandof the Spanish oral language and mastery of grammar studied duringthe first two years. This course includes additional emphasis on thestudy of grammar and reading about history, literature, music, art, andcustoms of Spanish-speaking countries (Latin America and Spain).Instruction is conducted in Spanish only. Students are required totake the AP Exam.6254 Advanced Placement (AP) SpanishLiteratureLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1 <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>Prerequisite: Spanish 3 Bil or AP Spanish LanguageRank: NoneThis course is designed as a college-level course which will preparestudents to take the Spanish Literature Advanced PlacementExamination. This course is designed for students who have a commandof the Spanish oral language and mastery of grammar studied duringprevious years of Spanish. This course includes the study of literature,grammar, music, art and customs of Spanish-speaking countries (LatinAmerica and Spain). The emphasis of this course is on the literatureof Spanish and Latin America authors required by the college board.Instruction is conducted in Spanish only. Students are required totake the AP Exam.6255 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)SPANISH STANDARD LEVELLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Spanish 3Rank: NoneThis course is designed to meet the standard level or the 1 st year of thehigher level Language B requirement for the IB Diploma. This courseculminates in the Language B standard level exam in Spanish. It isintended for students who have a command of the Spanish oral languageand a high level mastery of grammar. The sequence includes an in-depthstudy of grammar integrated with the study of history, literature, art,music and customs of the Spanish-speaking countries. Students arerequired to complete an oral commentary in Spanish that is internallyassessed and externally moderated. College credit may be granted forscores on this exam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.6257 INTERNATIONAL BACCALAUREATE (IB)SPANISH HIGHER LEVELLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: IB Spanish 6255Rank: NoneThis course is designed to meet the 2 nd year of the higher levelLanguage B requirement for the IB Diploma. This course culminatesin the Language B <strong>High</strong>er Level Exam in Spanish. It is intended forstudents who have a command of the Spanish oral language and a highlevel mastery of grammar. The sequence includes an in-depth studyof grammar integrated with the study of history, literature, art, musicand customs of the Spanish-speaking countries. Students are requiredto complete an oral commentary in Spanish that is internally assessedand externally moderated. College credit may be granted for scoreson this exam.NOTE: This advanced course serves the identified gifted/talentedstudent.6312 American Sign Language 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course is designed for students to gain beginning skills andconcepts that result in a basic understanding of the grammar ofAmerican Sign Language. Students are given the opportunity todevelop both receptive and expressive skills in order to communicatewith deaf individuals. Students learn about the anatomy of the ear, andhow sound travels through the ear. An awareness of the history andculture of deaf people, as well as information on deaf role models, areincluded in the course.6322 American Sign Language 2Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: American Sign Language IRank: NoneThis course is designed for students to expand their understandingof the grammar and vocabulary of American Sign Language studiedduring the first level course. Students are given the opportunity tocontinue to develop both their receptive and expressive skills in orderto communicate effectively with deaf individuals. An awareness ofthe history and culture of deaf people, opportunities to interact with thedeaf community and information on deaf role models are included in thecourse. Students also study different sign language systems in existence.6332 AMERICAN SIGN LANGUAGE 3Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: American Sign Language 1 & 2Rank: Regular/NoneThis course is designed for students to build on their understanding ofthe grammar and vocabulary of American Sign Language studied in thesecond level course. Students are provided the opportunity to continueto develop their skills to communicate effectively with deaf individuals.HEALTH P.E./SPORTS/P.E. EQUIVALENTS5001 HEALTH/ESLLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: Currently enrolled in HILD or ESOLRank: NoneThis one semester course deals with the following twelve units:1. Emotions and Personality2. Body Supply Systems3. Physical Fitness, Safety and First Aid4. Prevention of Health Problems5. Emotional and Mental Health6. Use of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug Abuse7. Family and Social Health and Arthritis8. Epilepsy, Diabetes, and Cancer9. Communicable Diseases10. Food and Nutrition11. Responsible Sexuality Abstinence12. Sexual HarassmentNOTE: This course is taught using ESL methodologies.5011 HealthLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: Regular/NoneThis one semester course deals with the following twelve units:1. Emotions and Personality


2. Body Supply Systems3. Physical Fitness, Safety and First Aid4. Prevention of Health Problems5. Emotional and Mental Health6. Use of Alcohol, Tobacco and Drug Abuse7. Family and Social Health and Arthritis8. Epilepsy, Diabetes, and Cancer9. Communicable Diseases10. Food and Nutrition11. Responsible Sexuality Abstinence12. Sexual HarassmentIncreased proficiency enhances students’ abilities to develop andmaintain a lifelong physically active life-style through individual sportpursuits.PHYSICAL EDUCATION5002 Foundations of Personal Fitness ESLowest Grade Placement: 9redit: 1/2rerequisite: Currently enrolled in HILD or ESOL Iank: Nonehis course incorporates multiple dimensions of wellness and theirelationship to students abilities to develop and maintain a physicallyctive, healthful life-style. The course focuses on criteria for selfssessment,development and implementation of a personal fitnessrogram. Knowledge and application of personal fitness enhancestudents’ abilities to reassess needs and interests in order to be physicallyctive throughout the life span.ote: This Course is taught using ESL methodologies5031 Foundation of Personal FitnessLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course incorporates multiple dimensions of wellness and theirrelationship to students abilities to develop and maintain a physicallyactive, healthful life-style. The course focuses on criteria for selfassessment,development and implementation of a personal fitnessprogram. Knowledge and application of personal fitness enhancesstudents’ abilities to reassess needs and interests in order to be physicallyactive throughout the life span.5061 Aerobic Activities 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: Foundation of Personal FitnessRank: NoneThis course enables students to develop knowledge, beginning skillsand health-related fitness through participation in a variety of aerobicactivities. The course focuses on developing competency in the basicskills of two or more activities that may include aerobic dance, aquaaerobics, cycling, jogging, power walking, recreational dance and stepaerobics. Acquisition of these skills allows students to develop andmaintain a lifelong physically active life-styles.5063 Aerobic Activities 2Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: Foundation of Pers. Fit.;5061 Aerobic Activities IRank: NoneThis course enables students to demonstrate increased proficiencyin knowledge and skills of one or more aerobic activities that mayinclude aerobic dance, aqua aerobics, cycling, jogging, power walking,recreational dance, and step aerobics. Students apply the knowledgeand skills to a personal cardiovascular program. Increased proficiencyenhances students’ abilities to develop and maintain a lifelong physicallyactive life-style through aerobic activities.5081 Team Sports 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2Prerequisite: Foundation of Personal FitnessRank: NoneThis course develops knowledge, beginning skills and health-relatedfitness through participation in team sports. The course enables studentsto develop competency in the basic skills of two or more team sportsthat may include basketball, field hockey, flag football, floor hockey,soccer, softball, team handball and volleyball. Acquisition of theseskills allows students to develop and maintain a lifelong physicallyactive life-styles through participation in a team sport of their choice.5083/5085 Team Sports 2-3Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 to 1 1/2Prerequisite: Foundation of Personal FitnessRank: NoneThis course enables students to develop increased proficiency inknowledge, skills, and strategies of one or more team sports that mayinclude basketball, field hockey, flag football, floor hockey, soccer,softball, team handball, and volleyball. This course provides studentswith further opportunities to develop teamwork and advanced strategiesthrough competition in an intramural format. Increased proficiencyenhances students’ abilities to develop and maintain a lifelong physicallyactive life-styles through team sport pursuits.5091-5093 INDIVIDUAL SPORTS/DANCELowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 - 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course introduces dance as an art form through focus on perception,creative expression/performance, historical and cultural heritage, andcritical evaluation. Students’ creative expression is fostered throughkinesthetic awareness/skill development, introduction to various danceforms, and choreography. This course forms the basis for the school’sdrill team.5321/5324 FOLKLORICOLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 - 1Prerequisite:Rank: NoneThis course introduces dance as an art form through focus onperception, creative expression/performance, historical andcultural heritage and critical evaluation. Students’ creative expression isfostered through kinesthetic awareness/skill development, introductionto various dance forms and choreography. This course forms the basisfor the school’s Folklorico Performing Group.ATHLETICS - NOTES OF SPECIAL INTEREST- All students must have a physical examination before participation.It is provided by the school district on specific dates. If a studentcannot be present, he/she must provide his/her own physical exam.- Insurance is provided by the school district for all boys and girls interscholastic athletic activities.- All athletes, cheerleaders and dance team must take part in off-seasonconditioning. Football athletes must also take part in Spring Training.5111-5114 Girls’ Basketball 5211-5214 Boys’ Basketball5151-5154 Girls’ Soccer 5251-5254 Boys’ Soccer5161-5164 Girls’ Softball 5201-5204 Boys’ Baseball5191-5194 Girls’ Wrestling 5281-5284 Boys’ Wrestling5171-5174 Girls’ Track/Cross-Country5271-5274 Boys’ Track/Cross-Country5301-5304 Cheerleading (tryouts) 5231-5234 Football5311-5314 Dance Team (tryouts) 5361-5364 Swim Team5341-5344 Diving5181-5184 Girl’s Volleyball 5351-5354 Golf5371-5374 Varsity Tennis 5381-5384 J.V. Tennis5391 9th TennisMILITARY SCIENCE5412/5422/5432/5442 MILITARY SCIENCE I - IVLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course develops leaders and motivates students to become bettercitizens. The curriculum is dynamic, hands-on, and performanceoriented. It provides students with opportunities to form habits ofself-discipline, think logically, communicate effectively, and applywhat they learn in the classroom to real situations. The instructors areretired professional soldiers to include a commissioned officer and twonon-commissioned officers. Students receive instruction in all aspectsof leadership development. These include physical fitness, techniquesof communication, problem solving and decision making. Students areprovided many opportunities to accumulate and document hundredsof hours of community service. Students who complete two or moreyears in the program may receive advance grade placement in the ArmedForces should they elect to join. However, students who enroll in thiscourse are under absolutely no military obligation whatsoever. Thiscourse is compatible and similar in nature at all three <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>High</strong><strong>School</strong>s. The U.S. Army sponsors the program at <strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>High</strong> andRowe. The U.S. Marine Corp. sponsors the program at Memorial.The course counts as an elective or Physical Education (PE) credit.5452 business leadership and militaryScienceLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: 2 Years of JROTC/KeyboardingRank: StandardThis course provides a combination of the structure, discipline, andorganizational requirements of the traditional JROTC curriculumwith an advanced and in-depth study of concepts and skills in varioussystems and administrative procedures that enable a worker to manageor function in the workplace. The extensive emphasis on characterdevelopment and fellowship/leadership skills in the JROTC Programis a natural environment to learn employability skills and techniques.The course enhances technology skills and oral and written languageskills relating to effective communications; emphasizes planningand organizing work, establishing priorities, records and informationmanagement, and operation of equipment. The real-world school andcommunity services activities of the McHi JROTC Department providean excellent laboratory for all of these skills. This course counts as abusiness elective and is a career and technology.COMMUNICATIONSPage 371502 JournalismLowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: Regular/NoneStudents learn the basic aspects of all forms of the mass media includingnewspapers, yearbooks, advertising, broadcast, and photography.Students learn how to write for different audiences and use differentwriting styles and techniques with an awareness of deadlines. Studentslearn how to become consumers of the media and use technology toenhance their communication skills. Students are also taught journalismethics and the responsibilities of the media.


Page 381512 Advanced Journalism Yearbook 1Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Journalism (1502)Rank: NoneStudents use graphic, design, and layout skills to produce the schoolyearbook through the use of desktop publishing. Students plan, draft,and complete written and/or visual communications, with a deadlinein mind, on a regular basis. Students also cover such topics as copywriting, interviewing skills, proofreading, photography, advertising, andlegal issues of publications.1522 Advanced Journalism Yearbook 2Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Advanced Journalism Yearbook 1Rank: NoneThrough the use of computers and software programs, students will usedesktop publishing to produce the school yearbook. There is a highemphasis on writing and leadership skills. Students also concentrateon the business aspect of yearbooks through public relations andadvertising.1532 Advanced Journalism Yearbook 3Lowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: Approval and Advanced Journalism (1522)Rank: NoneThis course allows students to concentrate on advanced yearbooklayouts and graphic ideas and assist the adviser with planning theyearly publications. Through the use of computers and softwareprograms, students use desktop publishing to assist them in design andlayout. There is also a high emphasis on writing and leadership skills.Students also master such topics as copy writing, interviewing skills,proofreading, typography, photography, advertising, and legal issuesof publications.1542 Advanced Journalism NewspaperProduction 1Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Journalism (1502)Rank: NoneThrough the use of desktop publishing, students produce the schoolnewspaper. They write headlines, captions, and stories, withina time frame, on a regular basis. Students learn to improve theircommunication skills through interviews and learn journalistic ethicsand responsibilities.1552/1562 Advanced Journalism Newspaper 2-3Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Advanced Journalism (1542)Rank: NoneThis course allows students to concentrate on specific phases of schoolnewspaper and spend time working with the publications adviserlearning to handle and correct current production problems. Throughthe use of computers and software programs, students use desktoppublishing to assist in design and layout.1572 PhotojournalismLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: Journalism (1502)Rank: NoneThis course allows student to take, develop and print photographs for theschool’s publications. A basic knowledge of photography is required.1582 Independent Study in JournalismLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1Prerequisite: Advanced Journalism (1522 or 1552)Rank: NoneThis course allows students to concentrate on advanced newspapertheory and layout ideas and help the adviser with planning futureperiodicals. Through the use of computers and software programs,students use desktop publishing to assist them in design and layout.This course is specifically designed for those students who wish topursue journalism as a career.1662 Independent Study IN Speech (KMAC)Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Broadcast Journalism, Media Technology 2Rank: Regular/NoneThis course provides opportunities for students to produce programs forschool projects and Channel 37. Students are also encouraged to seekmedia internships in the <strong>McAllen</strong> area.1701 Communication Application/ Advancementvia individual determination (avid) ILowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 Comm. Appl. & 1/2 AVID ElectivePrerequisite: NoneRank: Regular/NoneThis program is designed to meet the educational and social needs ofstudent in the middle student who, with support have the potential tosucceed in a rigorous course of study and go on to a post secondaryinstitution through AVID/Speech, students are prepared to meet fouryear college entrance requirements by mastering college preparatorycurricula.1732 Debate 1Lowest Grade Placement: 9Credit:Rank: Regular/NoneThe Goal of this course are to enhance students’ skills in research,public speaking, logic, note-taking, an indepth analysis. This courseenphasizes Cross-Examanation policy debate, Lincoln-Douglas values,Public Forum debate, and Congressional debate Additionally studentswill develop extemporaneous speaking skills. Partipation in speech anddebate toutnaments and the administration of speech and debatetournaments are required.1752 Debate 2, 3Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit:Rank: Regular/NoneThis course is designed as an informally structured class which followsthe guidelines set by the State. Students will work independently toenhance skills gained from Debate 1. Partipation in speech anddebate toutnaments and the administration of speech and debatetournaments are required.1762 INDEPENDENT STUDY/SPEECHLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit: 1/2 ElectivePrerequisite: Debate 3Rank: NoneThis course is designed as an informally stuctured class which followsthe guidelines set by the state. Students will work independently toenhance skills gained from Debate 1, 2, and 3. Partipation in speechand debate toutnaments and the administration of speech and debatetournaments are required.1841 CREATIVE AND IMAGINATIVE WRITINGLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2 ElectiveRank: Regular/StandardThis course provides students with an opportunity to explore the worldof writing. Students write short stories, poems and feature articles inorder to publish their works. They also correspond with authors ofvarious kinds of literature to learn firsthand what is involved. The classalso compiles and publishes the campus literarymagazine1843 ADVANCED JOURNALISM: LITERARY MAGAZINELowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1/2 ElectiveRank: Regular/StandardThis course provides the staff for the literary magazine. The emphasisis on recognizing good writing for evaluating and editing submissions.Students also design the cover and layout sheets of the magazine andare responsible for its sale and distribution. The course, offered in thespring semester, also gives students an opportunity to write poetry,informal essays, short stories and drama.1852 INDEPENDENT STUDY ENGLISH (TEST PREP)Lowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1/2 ElectivePrerequisite: NoneRank: NoneThis course offers students practice in skills considered necessary forsuccess in an academic environment. Included are test-taking strategiesfor college entrance exams such as ACT or SAT, as well as instructionon concentration, memory, test anxiety, note taking, and strategies toimprove confidence and time management. Vocabulary and readingflexibility skills are emphasized throughout the entire course.4502 ADVANCED STUDIESLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is a two semester elective course in which students conductin-depth research. Working in collaboration with a mentor, the studentinvestigates a problem, issue, or concern; researches the topic using avariety of technologies; and presents a product of professional qualityto an appropriate audience. The course requires field experience relatedto the area of investigation. Successful completion of this course mayresult in one advanced measure” credit toward the Texas Distinguishedachievement Program. NOTE: This advanced course serves theidentified gifted/talented student.TECHNOLOGY APPLICATIONSNOTE: The following courses satisfy technology application credit,but are not career and technology education credit.1912 DESKTOP PUBLISHINGLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: 1/2 to 1 credit of Keyboarding or PREPRank: NoneThis course combines the skills of electronic design and editing toproduce a product using a variety of hardware and software tools. Thisproject-based course focuses on real-world audiences as customers.Students will learn to use a collection of software tools and designtechniques to create a variety of formatted products. Students enrolledin this course will be computer literate and have experience with thebasic electronic productivity tools.1914 WEBMASTERINGLowest Grade Placement: 10Credit: 1Prerequisite: 1/2 to 1 credit of Keyboarding or PREPRank: NoneThis course focuses on scripting, developing search strategies,publishing skills, and serving information on a web server. Ultimately,students, within an ethical framework, will be the webmasters forthe class, school, or district, participating in a real global communityof learners and collaborators. Students enrolled in this course willbe computer literate and have experience with the basic electronicproductivity tools.


7432 ADVANCED WEB DESIGN AND DEVELOPMENTLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NoneThis course is designed to teach students how to plan, develop, design,and implement a website using various multimedia elements such astext, graphics, audio, video, animation and virtual reality. The studentwill learn and implement: Basic and Advance HTML, Basic WebArchitecture, Web Design Principles, Foundations in Digital Design,JavaScript, Introduction to E-Commerce, and Advance HTML SiteEditing using Adobe’s Go Live, and or Macromedia’s Dream weaver,or other WYSWYG software. The student will create Animated GIF’suse Image Editing Software (Adobe Photo Shop and /or MacromediaFireworks), and Animation Technology (Adobe Live Motion orMacromedia Flash MX) to create Dynamic Web Sites.NOTE: This course satisfies the Technology Applications graduationrequirement.1916 Independent Study/technologyapplicationsLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Prerequisite: Technology Applications CourseRank: NoneThis course provides opportunities for students desiring to continue inthe acquisition of multimedia, telecommunications, or programmingskill sets, build portfolios, solve problems, and create products for schooland community. Instructional design principles and software skill sets,relevant to instruction are interwoven into real products, and are thefocus of this course. This course is designed to provide flexibilityto schools that want to offer more advanced courses or the continuationof courses that students have completed in Technology Applications.of experience for young people who are potentially interested in careersin education, counseling, or community service. Taught at McHi,Memorial and Options4955 THEORY OF KNOWLEDGE, TOKLowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: NoneThe Theory of Knowledge course is a requirement for the IB Diploma.This course focuses on student reflection and questioning. Students arechallenged to reflect critically on diverse ways of knowing and areasof knowledge, and to consider the role knowledge plays in a globalsociety. Students are encouraged to become aware of themselves asthinkers, to recognize the complexity of knowledge, and to accept theneed to act responsibly in an increasingly interconnected world.NOTE: The completion of 49553 and 49563 satisfy the local PREPCTE requirements.Page 39MISCELLANEOUS/PEER ASSISTANCE LEADERSHIP9944 AVID IVLowest Grade Placement: 12Credit : 1Prerequisite: AVID I, II, III, and be enrolled in a Pre-AP, AP orHonors ClassRank: NoneAVID IV is designed to meet the educational needs of students in grade12 for college preparation according to their career cluster. The materialspresented are intended to meet the requirements of a post secondaryinstitution mastering college preparatory curricula and/or the workforce.Students in AVID IV will be required to complete college applications/Admissions requirements to their choice of college, take collegeplacement examinations, apply for scholarships/financial aid, andcomplete a senior video presentation that will take 6 weeks to complete.4812 student leadershiplowest Grade Placement: 9Credit: 1/2 - 1Prerequisite: NoneRank: StandardThis course is designed to offer students the opportunity to explore whatit means to be a leader and to guide students first efforts at exercisingleadership. This course is taught in a hands-on manner that enablesstudent leaders to experience leadership in a variety of real settings.NOTE: Course offered at Mc<strong>High</strong> and Memorial.4822 Peer Assistance and Leadership (P.A.L.)Lowest Grade Placement: 11Credit: 1Rank: RegularThis course allows students to become peer facilitators through workingwith elementary and middle school students, as well as students fromtheir own campuses. The in-class training for PAL students focuses onthe role of the helper, confidentiality/liability issues, group dynamics,self awareness, peer tutoring, listening and communication skills andmany other issues of concern. The course is intended to provide a field


<strong>Curriculum</strong> <strong>Bulletin</strong>We Offer Choice!Grades 9-12<strong>2012</strong>-<strong>2013</strong><strong>McAllen</strong> <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Memorial <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Rowe <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Options <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong> Achieve Early College <strong>High</strong> <strong>School</strong>It is the policy of <strong>McAllen</strong> I.S.D. not to discriminate on the basis of sex, handicap, race, color or national origin in its educational or career and technology program activities or employment as required by Title IX, Section504 and Title VI. The district will take steps to insure that lack of English language skills will not be a barrier to admission or participation in any educational or career and technology program.

Hooray! Your file is uploaded and ready to be published.

Saved successfully!

Ooh no, something went wrong!