LANGUAGE ARTS

COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH I
This course reviews the basic skills of grammar, usage, and mechanics.  The course involves the development of students’ spelling, vocabulary, library, and communication skills.  Studies in literature are designed to develop and reinforce reading skills and interest, build comprehension, and provide a basic reading repertoire. Placement in this course is determined by teacher recommendation and testing.

HONORS ENGLISH I
This course is designed for students who excelled in language arts studies in middle school and who intend to pursue higher education.  Because of the advanced nature of this course, very little of the material covered is review material.  An analytical study of vocabulary is an integral part of this course.  Honors English will encompass an extensive analytical and critical study of literature.  Composition of instruction focuses on organizational skills and using the writing process in logical and critical modes, especially in response to literature. Placement in this course is determined by teacher recommendation and testing.

SKILLS ENGLISH I
This course provides students with remedial work in such basic grammar skills as parts of speech, capitalization, and punctuation.  Reading comprehension is also an integral part of this course.  Special emphasis is placed on preparing students for the English I End of Course Exam.  Placement in Skills English I is determined by teacher recommendation and testing.

READ 180
Read 180 is an intensive reading intervention program which is research based. The course has proven effective for those students needing additional help with reading comprehension and development. Placement in Read 180 is determined by teacher recommendation and testing.

CREATIVE WRITING
This honors course teaches the student the skills to write persuasive papers.  Persuasive writing is writing in which one supports a thesis with logical evidence.  A persuasive paper uses argumentation as its primary mode of development. This course will focus on proofreading and topics similar to those used on the TCAP Writing Assessment and the new ACT and SAT college entrance testing programs. Freshman Only

COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH II
This course is designed to continue exploration of topics studied in College Prep English I.  Vocabulary development and literature continue to be a focus of this course.

HONORS ENGLISH II
This course is designed to continue exploration of topics studied in Honors English I.  Practical grammar, composition, and advanced vocabulary studies are an integral part of this course.  The study of literature will include analysis and essay-test taking.

HONORS ENGLISH II-B (Literary Analysis, Research, and Composition)
Students will extend and intensify skills developed in Honors English II-A; additionally, the course will encompass research methodology and proficiency in compositional techniques.

SKILLS ENGLISH II
This course is designed to continue exploration of topics studied in Skills English I. 

COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH III
This course is designed to continue exploration of topics studied in Standard English II.  The study of literature will include the analysis of representative examples of American Literature in various genres.  The study of composition in this course focuses on the essay and research paper including organizational styles, documentation, and research techniques.

HONORS ENGLISH III
This course is designed to continue exploration of topics studied in Honors English II. This class promotes academic excellence in English language arts through enriched experiences in literature and composition.  Analytical vocabulary study continues to be an integral part of this course.  The study of composition focuses on the research paper, including organizational styles, documentation, and research techniques. Students also work on developing sophisticated writing styles.

SKILLS ENGLISH III & IV
These courses are designed to continue to review fundamental language arts skills necessary to function in the work-place.  Reading comprehension skills are reinforced. 

COLLEGE PREP ENGLISH IV
This course is designed to continue exploration of topics studied in Standard English III.  The study of literature is confined to British literature and includes the critical analysis of representative examples of British literature as they reflect changes in the language and the development of literary traditions in the English language.  The research paper is also included in this course.

HONORS ENGLISH IV
This course is designed to continue exploration of topics studied in Honors English III.  This class is the last of the high school honors English courses that prepare students for mastery of communication skills which institutions of higher learning require of entering freshmen.

JOURNALISM-NEWSPAPER
This course is designed for students who wish to apply their language arts skills to the production of the monthly school newspaper, The Blue and Gold Review.  Students learn the basics of layout and design and develop advanced proofreading and interviewing skills.  Word processing and desktop publishing skills are also included in the course. Students must have instructor approval before they can enroll in the class.

JOURNALISM-YEARBOOK
Students will use desktop publishing software to create pages for the yearbook.  They will gain knowledge of basic layout and design.  They gain skills in using the industry standard Adobe In Design to create pages for submission to the plant. Students use Microsoft Excel to keep accurate records relevant to the yearbook. Students also use a variety of graphic programs to create and modify art for the yearbook.  This is an ongoing objective and will be accomplished in an independent study environment.  Students will also learn the basics of taking a good photograph.  Students learn to deal with the business world through ad sales and billing. Yearbook staff members must have instructor approval before they can enroll in the class.

.WSCC DUAL ENROLLMENT ENGLISH COMPOSTITION I & II
Joint enrollment English, a state of Tennessee approved academic program, is offered to GPHS seniors who exhibit strong skills in English (as demonstrated by a minimum ACT English score of 21) and academics (as determined by an overall minimum GPA of 3.2).  Seniors who meet both criteria are admitted to Walters State Community College as advanced studies students who will complete English 1110 (Composition I) & English 1120 (Composition II) during their final year at GPHS.  Since each class carries three semester hours of college credit, students may graduate from GPHS with a total of six semester hours of Language Arts granted from WSCC.  Students who do not maintain at least a C average in 1110 are not permitted to proceed to the next level. SENIORS ONLY.

INTERDISCIPLINARY STUDIES (Test Prep)
The design of this course is to teach students skills, techniques and concepts necessary to improve standardized test scores.  Anyone planning to attend college or university should consider taking this course.


MATHEMATICS

INTRO TO ALGEBRA /ALGEBRA I
Algebra I is an entry-level course designed for students who have mastered advanced arithmetic skills.  The study of Algebra I includes evaluation and manipulation of algebraic problem-solving methods. Special emphasis is placed on preparing students for the Gateway Algebra I Exam.  Algebra I is a yearlong course (2 terms) Intro to Algebra is 1st term and Algebra I is 2nd term. Two full credits can be earned at the end of the year.

TECHNICAL GEOMETRY

GEOMETRY AND HONORS GEOMETRY
Geometry develops student understand of geometric figures in plane and space, relationships between geometric ideas, and geometric proofs. The course builds student ability in inductive and deductive reasoning in mathematics.

ALGEBRA II AND HONORS ALGEBRA II
Algebra II is an extension of Algebra I designed to provide work in open sentences with one or more variables, polynomial expressions, order properties, axioms for the real and complex numbers, linear and quadratic equations, functions, progressions, and logarithms.

HONORS TRIGONOMETRY/ADVANCED ALGEBRA
Trigonometry is the normal sequential course after studying both geometry and Algebra II.  The course is an extensive study of functions, triangle relationships, and trigonometric functions. Principles of geometry and Algebra II are applied to more advanced topics. 

HONORS PRE-CALCULUS
Pre-Calculus is the normal sequential course after Trigonometry.  Topics include exponential and logarithmic functions, an extension of trig to polar coordinates, analytic geometry, systems of equations, and the introductory Calculus topics of the limit and the derivative.  Students study many more applied concepts such as compound interest, growth and decay, number patterns, probability and linear programming.  This course provides a foundation for the study of Calculus.

.HONORS CALCULUS                                                                                                                                                        
This course includes topics from differential calculus such as finding the equation of the tangent of a curve, related rates, curve plotting and maxima and minima theory.  During the term the students will prepare for the National Advanced Placement Test in Calculus.  Most colleges offer credit to students receiving 3 of 5 possible points on this national exam.


SOCIAL STUDIES

WORLD GEOGRAPHY
Specific content to be covered will include but not be limited to the study and understanding of the earth and its people.  Special emphasis will be placed on map recognition and geographical locations.

ANCIENT HISTORY
The study of ancient history provides students with the opportunity to examine in depth the development of humanity’s earliest civilizations.

MODERN HISTORY
This course provides students with the opportunity to take a more in-depth look at the events and personalities that have shaped the contemporary world.  The course begins with the study of the exploration of the conquistadors and ends with the modern day collapse of the Soviet Union.

UNITED STATES HISTORY
This course is required of all students for graduation.  The course traces the development of the United States to the present.  Special emphasis is placed on understanding the impact of major events in American history on America’s development.

UNITED STATES GOVERNMENT
The purpose of this course is to give students a critical perspective on politics and government in the United States.  This course involves the study of general concepts used to interpret American governmental procedure.  Specific content will include an understanding of the foundations of government, major provisions of the Constitution, powers and duties of the legislative, executive, and judicial branches, the role of state and local governments, political parties, and the election process.

ECONOMICS/ PERSONAL FINANCE
Economics: This course is a practical study of the economic forces and influences that affect consumers.  The subject matter includes the operation of our economic system and the role of the consumer in the system.  Students will study the relationships between business enterprises, labor, government, and the individual consumer.
Personal Finance: This course is designed to inform students how individual choices directly influence occupational goals and future earnings potential. Real world topics covered will include income, money management, spending and credit, as well as saving and investing.

BIBLE HISTORY
This course consists of a general survey of the Bible with emphasis given to its historical, geographical, artistic, and cultural as well as literary aspects.  It is desired that the Old Testament be emphasized during the first nine weeks and the New Testament the last nine weeks. 

CONTEMPORARY ISSUES
This class is a study of the issues that affect the world today.  Daily class activity and discussion include current events and topics chosen by the instructor.

WSCC DUAL ENROLLMENT AMERICAN HISTORY I & II
American History I The United States to 1877.  A survey of the settlement and development of the colonies, the Revolutionary period, the making of the Constitution, the diplomatic, economic and political problems of the new government, the growth of Nationalism, Jacksonian Democracy, territorial expansion, the Civil War and Reconstruction. American History II The United States since 1877.  A survey of the growth of the United States as an industrial and world power since Reconstruction: the Industrial Revolution, immigration, urbanization, rise of labor, Spanish-American War, Progressivism, World War II, Post World War II, and modern U.S. History
Minimum of 19 composite on ACT/ Available to Juniors and Seniors.

WSCC DUAL ENROLLMENT EUROPEAN HISTORY I & II
This course is a survey of major economic, political and social developments from ancient times to the present.  Emphasis on Western Civilization and writing emphasis are key to this course.  Minimum of 19 composite on ACT/ Available to Juniors and Seniors.

WSCC DUAL ENROLLMENT INTRO TO PSYCHOLOGY/DEVELOPMENTAL PSYCHOLOGY
This course is an introduction to the guiding principles and primary approaches to the study of human and animal behavior, psychological and physiological growth and development from conception to death looking at various theories through the entire life span.


SCIENCE

PHYSICAL SCIENCE
This course is a laboratory course designed to focus on the study of matter and energy.  Success in this course is demonstrated by projects, tests, and labs, which help students develop important inquiry skills about matter and energy.

ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & BIOLOGY I
Environmental Science is a lab science that looks at the environment and other related factors.  Areas of concentration include ecology, evolution, and biodiversity.  Students actively investigate their surroundings and they relate what they find to various biological principles.  Biology I covers a wide variety of biological concepts including cellular biology, photosynthesis, and genetics along with a review of ecological and evolutionary principles.  This course prepares students to take the Biology I Gateway Exam required by the state of Tennessee. Environmental Science is first term and Biology I is second term. Students can earn 2 full credits at the end of the year.

HONORS ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE & HONORS BIOLOGY I
Honors Environmental Science and Biology I push students to master Level 2 learning and challenges them on a Level 3 learning level in these areas. Environmental Science is first term and Biology I is second term. Students can earn 2 full credits at the end of the year.

.HONORS BIOLOGY II
Biology II is a second- year course in biology. The subject matter is more specific than Biology I with emphasis on ecology, evolution, genetics, and the physiology and anatomy of mammals. Prerequisites: Biology I and Chemistry I

CHEMISTRY I and HONORS CHEMISTRY I
The purpose of this course is to provide students with rigorous study of the composition, properties, and changes associated with matter.  Lab work is an integral part of the course.  The course content will include changes of matter, atomic structure, periodic table, formulas, and equations, energy and order, solutions, acids, bases, salts, and reaction rates and equilibrium. Honors Chemistry puts greater emphasis on critical thinking skills, problem solving, and laboratory skills. Prerequisites: Biology I and Algebra I

HONORS CHEMISTRY II
This course is comprised of advanced chemistry topics including electrochemistry, hydrocarbons, biochemistry, and nuclear chemistry. Prerequisites: Chemistry I

HONORS PHYSICS
The purpose of this course is to provide students with an introductory study of the theories and laws governing the interaction of matter, energy, and the forces of nature.  The course content includes kinematics, dynamics energy, work and power, heat and thermodynamics, light, electricity, and magnetism.  Lab is an integral part of this course. Prerequisites: Chemistry I

HONORS PHYSIOLOGY/ ANATOMY
The purpose of this course is to provide students with exploratory and advanced activities in the structures and functions of the components of the human body.  The content will include anatomical terminology, cells and tissues, skeletal system, muscle system, nervous system, special sensory organs, endocrine system, circulatory system, respiratory system, immune system, and disease process. Prerequisites: Honors Biology II


FOREIGN LANGUAGES

LATIN I
The study of Latin is designed to teach concepts of usage, form, and structure of language by means of Latin vocabulary, derivations of English words, and translation of Latin text. Students must have a good background in English grammar. The course emphasizes history and culture of Rome.

LATIN II
This course adds to the students’ knowledge of vocabulary, grammar, and Roman culture.  It stresses the history of the Roman Republic and includes translations of Caesar’s writings.

LATIN III
Grammar includes continued study of uses of the subjunctive mood.  The majority of Latin III is translation of the passages from Julius Caesar’s five-volume account of the Gallic Wars; selected letters of Pliny the Younger, Cataline, and Cicero; and the poetry of Ovid.  Students need a strong foundation in grammar and vocabulary from Latin I and II before taking Latin III.
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SPANISH I
This course develops the language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on conversational Spanish. The course introduces the culture, history, geography, and music of Spain and Latin America.

SPANISH II
Spanish II develops the four language skills of listening, speaking, reading, and writing with emphasis on grammar. A more intense investigation of the culture of Spanish-speaking countries complements the development of language skills.

SPANISH III
This course has been designed to allow students to achieve mastery of the vocabulary and grammar they have learned in Spanish I and in Spanish II through conversation, reading, and writing exercises.  Through various independent projects, they will achieve a working knowledge of Spanish culture and art.

FRENCH I
This course presents the basic elements of grammar and vocabulary of the French language. Students are introduced to French culture and history. Students gain a basic ability in spoken and written French.

FRENCH II
This course builds on the skills acquired in French I. Particular emphasis is placed on conversational French, and students expand their understanding of French history, culture, and literature. 


VISUAL & PERFORMING ARTS

VISUAL ARTS I
Art I is designed to aid the student in understanding the concepts, skills, body of knowledge, and general appreciation of works of art from represented historical periods and cultures.  The content of this course consists of classroom activities involving a variety of art forms and media.  The history of each technique is included in the study of each medium.  Art history studies correlates with class activities to provide more productive learning experiences.  Units of study include graphic design, drawing, painting, textiles, printmaking, crafts, and ceramics.  The course is designed to provide students with general understanding of the knowledge and basic skills of visual literacy.

VISUAL ARTS II
Art II is designed to be a continued application of the principles and elements of art through classroom activities.  Art movements, forms, and styles are included in each unit as a basic and underlying part of the content.  Units of study include a review of design, graphic design, drawing, painting, three-dimensional design, printmaking, and ceramics.  Students are given individual choices of media and theme, and they will continue to develop knowledge and skills in order to operate at higher levels of competency and understanding.

VISUAL ARTS III AND IV
Art III and Art IV are Advanced Art Studio Courses.  The class is designed to meet the course goals established by the state art curriculum framework for both Art III and Art IV.  The course strives to enable students to understand the pursuit of quality in being expressive and responsive, exercising imagination and developing interest in the visions and inventions of others.  Students are encouraged to understand the environmental, cultural, and intellectual influences affecting artistic forms in order to expand and refine skills, knowledge, and attitudes that contribute to aesthetic judgments and artistic performance.  Students become more aware of the work of contemporary artists, of current national and regional art exhibits, of possible art-related careers for the student, and of ways to make art a permanent part of the individual’s life.  Generally, students who enroll in Advanced Art are very serious about a future in art so establishing an individual portfolio for use in college and scholarship applications is also a part of the class.  These students usually compete in Portfolio Day at the Art Institute of Atlanta, and they are commonly active participants in area, regional and even national high school art competitions and exhibits.

VOCAL MUSIC
This course is designed to give students the opportunity to improve and develop vocal music skills.  The emphasis of the course is on performance.  Participation in school and public choral concerts and musical dramas are an integral part of the course.  Elements of stage production are also included in this course. Requires some after school hours.

INSTRUMENTAL MUSIC (Marching and Concert Band)
This course is designed to give students the opportunity to improve their proficiency in sight-reading, musical technique, and performance.  Fall term is devoted mainly to marching band, including field performances and contests.  The emphasis for spring term is concert band. Requires after school hours.

DRAMA
This course is the introduction to the study and practice of theater arts including operations of the theater, fundamentals of acting, and stage production.  The emphasis of the course is on stage performance.




CAREER & TECHNOLOGY EDUCATION

AGRICULTURE EDUCATION

PRINCIPLES OF AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES
This course is designed to develop the basic theories and principles involved in animal science, agricultural mechanics, and natural resource management.  The standards prepare students to choose among agricultural careers for the 21st century.

LAND AND SOIL MANAGEMENT
This course is designed to introduce students to the mechanics of landscaping.  They will learn basic skills in drafting, identifying and selecting plant material, setting up a small business and other practical skills needed in the field of landscaping. In addition, the student will develop leadership skills necessary for directing employees and working with consumers. PREREQUISITE: Principles of Agricultural Sciences.

FORESTRY MANAGEMENT
Forestry is designed to develop student knowledge of forestry technology as it progresses into the 21st century.  The student will develop skills in producing, harvesting, marketing, and developing forestry products.  Forests are one of the state’s most valuable resources.  If we are to enjoy their products in the future, they must be conserved today.  PREREQUISITE: Principles of Agricultural Sciences.


BUSINESS INFORMATION & TECHNOLOGY

PRINCIPLES OF BUSINESS
This course introduces students to aspects of business including the international economy, finance principles, management strategies, and information systems.  Students will analyze the elements of the business environment and focus on attitudinal and problem solving skills inherent to success.

AMERICAN BUSINESS LEGAL SYSTEM
The American Business Legal Systems course provides students with an understanding of the legal framework in which American business functions.  The students will evaluate the influence of the free enterprise system that democratic society has on one’s daily decisions.  Students will analyze the alliance between capitalism and democracy and become better prepared to make decisions in business management. (substitutes for US Government).

COMPUTER APPLICATIONS
This course examines the use of microcomputers for business and personal use.  Students study word processing, spreadsheets, database systems, graphics, and telecommunications.  It is recommended that a student have an appropriate background in keyboarding or typing.

KEYBOARDING/DOCUMENT FORMATTING
This course is a continuation of the keyboarding course.  Student will learn to prepare business and academic reports. The student will demonstrate a combination of input skills (advanced keyboarding, scanning, speech recognition, handwriting recognition, and the use of the mouse) in the production of mailable business documents.  Industry production standards are emphasized.  Formatting, typography and layout and design concepts are applied in document preparation of business letters, forms, invoices, manuscripts, and tabulated and columnar information with emphasis on proofreading and editing skills. Substitutes for Computer Applications  

SPREADSHEET APPLICATION/DATABASE DESIGN
Spreadsheet Applications involves the use of electronic worksheets to perform business calculations. Students will develop skills in designing worksheets, writing formulas, analyzing data, charting data, and managing data. Students will develop database management skills enabling them to design and implement a relational database application. PREREQUISITE: Keyboarding & Document Formatting (10,11,and 12 GRADERS ONLY).

ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGEMENT
This is a computer course geared toward office management skills.  The student will play a variety of roles in completing tasks.  Procedures and concepts are related to information processing systems, problem solving, reasoning, team building, time management, business standards, and ethical and legal issues.


TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING

FOUNDATIONS OF TECHNOLOGY
This course is one component of the overall technology engineering education program designed to prepare students for the technological world by preparing them to assume the roles of informed voters, productive workers, and wise consumers. This course will focus on the development of knowledge and skills regarding the following aspects of technology: 1) its evolution, 2) systems, 3) core concepts, 4) design, and 5) utilization.
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TECHNOLOGY ISSUES
This is an overview course designed to introduce students to the application of technology to solve problems and meet the demands of society.  Laboratory experiences are focused on the technology systems of bio-related technology, communication, computer applications, construction, energy, power, transportation, and manufacturing.  Students will study concepts about technological systems and the influences these systems have at home, in communities, and at work. The content of the course includes, but is not limited to, the study of systems and application of technology, design/problem solving, evolving technologies, safety, maintenance, entrepreneurship, leadership, careers, and marketing. Grades 10-12 Prerequisite: Foundations of Technology and Algebra I 

ENGINEERING PROCESSES
The purpose of Engineering Processes is to expose students to project-based learning activities using advanced mathematics, design, pre-engineering concepts, use of time studies, and problem solving using both classroom and on-line materials. Students will perform research and upper level literacy in technology engineering education. This course is designed to provide information and experiences to help students adapt themselves to the workforce and the changing demands that will be placed on the engineering workforce in the 21st century. It will help students develop skills in problem solving, teamwork, time management, computer skills, and engineering systems. Grades 11 & 12 only. Prerequisite: Foundations of Technology, Technology Systems, Algebra 1, and Geometry


MARKETING EDUCATION

MARKETING EDUCATION
The Marketing Education program is a study of marketing and the economy designed for students with interest in the field of marketing.  The program is a vocational, cooperative effort between the high school and local business.  Classroom instruction is supplemented by supervised employment experience with cooperating businesses.  The main objectives of Marketing Education: (a) to develop an understanding and appreciation of the American free enterprise system (b) to help students understand the importance of marketing in our economy (c) to train students to assume responsibilities and (d) to help students obtain business leadership abilities.  ENROLLMENT IS BY APPLICATION AND ACCEPTANCE ONLY. 11TH AND 12TH GRADERS ONLY

ADVERTISING AND PUBLIC RELATIONS
This course is designed to develop an understanding of concepts and strategies needed to communicate information about products, services, ideas and/or images to achieve a desired outcome.  Prerequisite: Marketing I.

OTHER
PHYSICAL EDUCATION, HEALTH & SAFETYLIFETIME WELLNESS
This course introduces the students to healthy lifestyles and appropriate self-care.  The course topics include sex education, nutrition, exercise, and personal hygiene.

PHYSICAL EDUCATION AND ADVANCED PHYSICAL EDUCATION
The purpose of physical education is to enhance one’s interest in sports as a participant as well as a spectator.  A focus of the class is to make students aware of the contribution of physical activities to the total development of the individual.  Advanced physical education seeks to develop a competitive attitude within the students.  Most students enrolled in advanced physical education are members of one or more school sponsored athletic teams.

DRIVER EDUCATION
Driver Education is designed to meet state requirements for classroom curriculum and in-car driving experience, and to provide skills and knowledge related to the safe and proper operation of an automobile.  Driver Education makes student drivers aware of their responsibilities to society in the area of traffic safety, instills respect for traffic laws and law enforcement officers, and helps students develop the proper attitudes necessary for safe driving.  It helps students adopt a strategy for driving that will become the basis for a lifetime of competent driving. Must be 15 years old